Nest predation risk influences the Varied Tit’s life history strategy in response to temperature and precipitation

Abstract

Life history strategy is of great significance to the survival and reproduction of any individual because it determines individual fitness. Strategies are shaped by diverse factors: temperature, precipitation, and nest predation risks may be some of them. From a four-year study, we analyzed the role of temperature, precipitation, and nest predation risk in relation to change in the life history strategy of the Varied Tit (Sittiparus varius). Specifically, clutch size was negatively related to both ambient temperature and nest predation risk. The reproductive success rate was negatively related to both temperature and precipitation, but only when the predation risk was low. First-egg laying date was not significantly related to any recorded factors. These results help us better understand the evolution of life history and inform us regarding management decisions for wild population conservation.

Keywords

• clutch size
• first-egg laying date
• nest predation
• precipitation
• reproductive success rate
• temperature