Data from: Generational shift in spring staging site use by a long-distance migratory bird
Data files
Jan 24, 2018 version files 106.30 KB
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_All seen marked adults.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_Brood succes females.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_Brood succes males.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_FigS1_Extremadura.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_FigS1_SadoTejo.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_Juvenile Data.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_Juvenile Survival.xlsx
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Verhoeven et al._Generational shift_Parent and Offspring.xlsx
Abstract
In response to environmental change, species have been observed altering their migratory behaviours. Few studies, however, have been able to determine whether these alterations resulted from inherited, plastic, or flexible changes. Here we present a unique observation of a rapid population-level shift in migratory routes — over 300 km from Spain to Portugal — by continental black-tailed godwits Limosa limosa limosa. This shift did not result from adult godwits changing staging sites, as adult site use was highly consistent. Rather, the shift resulted from young godwits predominantly using Portugal over Spain. We found no differences in reproductive success or survival among individuals using either staging site, indicating that the shift resulted from developmental plasticity rather than natural selection. Our results therefore suggest that new migratory routes can develop within a generation and that young individuals may be the agents of such rapid changes.