Heading south: Older storks reach their destination faster

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This was discovered by a team from the Max Planck Institute for Behavioral Biology in Radolfzell and the University of Konstanz. There is no evidence that older birds are more productive.

The group used GPS transmitters to record data on the migration of dozens of white storks (Ciconia ciconia). Migration routes, timing and speed of storks were analyzed and energy consumption during flight was also estimated. Young animals start earlier in the fall and land later than older members of the species, which have relatively straighter and more efficient migration routes. Birds that arrive early at breeding grounds often secure the best nesting sites. However, faster flight is associated with higher energy requirements.

The research team, led by Martin Wikelski, Director of the Department of Animal Migration at the Max Planck Institute, explains that the information storks collect during their flights is an important currency for animals. They become more accurate as the years go by. According to the research, better flying conditions can be ruled out as the reason for faster bird migration.

Wikelski explained that what surprised him most was that the majority of behaviors were not innate but culturally learned. “We can now understand, for the first time, what animals see, learn and experience throughout their lives.”

The results of the study revealed that early life experiences play an important role in bird migration. According to one study author, storks live an average of eight years and are considered young animals for up to three years. During these times they spent more time exploring different areas. “They don’t follow straight routes,” said co-author Andrea Flack.

By old storks we mean animals around five years old. Between the third and fourth years of life, birds become fully grown and begin breeding. Animals can live up to 30 years, but very few make it.

(SDA)

Source : Blick