Effects of nest locations on foraging behavior and physiological responses in seabird colony

• DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2025.1519701
• Publication Date: 2025-01-31T06:41:37Z
• Authors: Yuichi Mizutani; Yusuke Goto; Akiko Shoji; Ken Yoda
• Keywords: seabird; antioxidants; reproductive cost; pro-oxidant; Physiology; colony; QP1-981; BAP

Breeding success and survival in colonial seabirds are influenced by nest location, physical surroundings, external disturbances. Nest location may also directly or indirectly affect individual foraging behavior physiological conditions, shaping reproductive survival. Despite these influences, few studies have integrated the analysis of behavior, status. In this study, we analyzed 20 black-tailed gulls (Larus crassirostris) nesting center a colony within protected area (Central Group, CG) five on periphery outside area, where human disturbance is frequent (Peripheral PG). Using GPS movement trajectories indicators, found that although clutch sizes were similar between CG PG, PG exhibited shorter trip durations, maximum distances from nest, lower daily frequency trips. Antioxidant capacity did not differ groups; however, oxidation levels PG. These behavioral differences associated with partly result incubation period activity. The individuals remained peripheral group for at least 2 years (some over 15 years), all attempts failing, suggesting consistently low success. However, reduced activity oxidative stress reflect an energy-saving strategy mitigate costs repeated breeding failures. findings suggest potential life-history trade-off, which prioritize This highlights how disturbances can shape energy allocation strategies colony's peripheral-central distribution.