Ecologic Impacts of Wading Birds on the Aquatic Environment.

摘要

Aspects of wading bird ecology and behavior were studied for their direct and indirect impact on the aquatic environment. Population density,distribution and movement-behavior were determined through aerial transect studies,counts at nesting colonies and by radio-tagging and tracking individual birds. The needs of wading birds for specific types of water areas,most of which are not in conflict with the needs of man,are described. Food habits and droppings are closely related to the increased levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in the waters of the colonies and the resultant quanotrophy produces large amounts of alal mat and duckweed. The droppings kill vegetation that they fall on. These birds are a disadvantage to fish hatcheries and the colonies are not desirable when located close to homes.