Ardea
Official journal of the Netherlands Ornithologists' Union

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Beintema A.J., Beintema-Hietbrink R.J. & Muskens G.J.D.M. (1985) A shift in the timing of breeding in meadow birds. ARDEA 73 (1): 83-89
Analysis of ringing dates of chicks of Lapwing Vanellus vanellus, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Redshank Tringa totanus, Snipe Gallinago gallinago, Ruff Philomachus pugnax, and Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus show that in this century there has been a marked shift in the timing of breeding of these species in The Netherlands. Today, with some regional exceptions, all these species start breeding one or two weeks earlier than they used to do in the beginning of the century. Changes in egg-taking habits of man cannot be held responsible for this shift. General changes in the climate, such as a gradual warming up, appear to be insufficient to explain the changes observed. The shift fits rather well with shifts in agricultural activities. Both mowing and grazing start about two weeks earlier nowadays than at the beginning of the century, as a result of faster and enhanced growth of grass. The main causes are the increasing amounts of fertilizers used, and higher soil temperatures in spring, due to improved drainage. It is postulated that this not only affects the growth of the vegetation, but also the phenology of fauna, including birds. Changes may affect chick survival and habitat choice.


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