We used capture-recapture analyses to describe juvenile and adult survival from 1993 to 2001 in a population of Sociable Weavers (Philetairus socius), a colonial, cooperatively breeding passerine of southern Africa. We examined temporal variation in survival and the role that the breeding season's length and environmental factors play in determining survival patterns in the population. Annual survival probability (mean ± SE) was 0.66 ± 0.02. In contrast to most passerines, juveniles and adults had similar survival probabilities; survival rates did not vary significantly between years. We found no relationship among temperature, rainfall, and survival. Relatively high survival rates in Sociable Weavers probably result from a benign climate and easy access to food in winter. Juvenile survival may also be enhanced by prolonged parental care and delayed dispersal.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 October 2004
JUVENILE AND ADULT SURVIVAL IN THE SOCIABLE WEAVER (PHILETAIRUS SOCIUS), A SOUTHERN-TEMPERATE COLONIAL COOPERATIVE BREEDER IN AFRICA
Rita Covas,
Charles R. Brown,
Mark D. Anderson,
Mary Bomberger Brown
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
The Auk
Vol. 121 • No. 4
October 2004
Vol. 121 • No. 4
October 2004