Приспособления некоторых птиц водно-болотного комплекса к гнездованию в южных пустынях

Abstract

Observations of 1970-1971 carried out in Krasnovodsk, Severnyj Cheleken and Mikhajvian bays gave reason to describe adaptations of Charadrius alexandrinus L. Larus genei B r e m e., Sterna hirundo L., Sterna albifrons Pall., Lusciniola melanopogon (T e m m.) to extremum conditions of south deserts. The adaptations are aimed at avoiding or softening the effect of extremum conditions and at using maximum of the optimal natural conditions and optimal season of the year for the progeny reproduction with minimum of energy expenditures. The described species arrange clutches or nests in such a position that they are protected as much as possible from direct sun rays, heat and wind. Reduction of the reproduction cycle and eggs number in a clutch (except for St. albifrons P a 11.) is also characteristic of them as compared to birds of more northern latitudes.