The Influence of Climate Nest Temperature on Nestling Survival and Growth in Barn Swallows: Implications of Climate Change

Kaitlyn M. Baker
Dr. Joanna Hubbard, Faculty Mentor

According to the most recent National Climate Change assessment released in 2018, the rising surface temperatures of the Earth are undeniable and will cause dramatic changes in the future, impacting all ecological aspects of life. These impacts are particularly prevalent for barn swallows (Hirundo rustica), who trade-off overall fitness with the rate and length of incubation periods as well as the duration, quantity, and quality of the broods, which leads to a direct effect on nestling growth and success. Therefore, the primary goal of this study is to determine how variation in nest temperature and ambient temperature affects hatching success, growth, and reproductive success in barn swallows. We made comparisons between average nest temperature, hatching success, and nestling growth and survival rates. These results are essential in understanding how barn swallows can adapt to rising temperatures within their nests, and how these changes affect their hatching survival rate overall.

 

Keywords: Climate Change, Barn Swallows, Hirundo rustica , temperature , hatching

Topic(s):Biology
Environmental Studies

Presentation Type: Oral Presentation

Session: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA