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Long-term pair bonds in the Laysan Duck

January 1, 2009

We describe long-term pair bonds in the endangered Laysan Duck (Anas laysanensis), a dabbling duck endemic to the Hawaiian Archipelago. Individually marked birds were identified on Laysan Island between 1998 and 2006 (n = 613 marked adults). We recorded pair bonds while observing marked birds, and documented within and between year mate switches and multi-year pair bonds. Twenty pairs banded before 2001 had stable pair bonds lasting ???5 years with a maximum enduring pair bond of nine breeding seasons. Understanding reproductive strategy, including mate retention, would aid conservation planning and management efforts for the Laysan Duck. Further study is needed to characterize the social system of this endangered species.

Publication Year 2009
Title Long-term pair bonds in the Laysan Duck
DOI 10.1676/07-188.1
Authors M.H. Reynolds, J.H. Breeden, M.S. Vekasy, T.M. Ellis
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Wilson Journal of Ornithology
Index ID 70035911
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse