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Estimation of Adult Sex Ratio and Size-Related Sexual Dimorphism Based on Molecular Sex Determination in the Vulnerable La Selle Thrush, Turdus swalesi

Authors :
Jean-Marry Exantus
Etienne Bezault
Christopher Cambrone
Frank Cézilly
Source :
Animals, Vol 14, Iss 6, p 842 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Sex-determination is of particular importance in avian ecology and conservation. However, many bird species show no conspicuous sexual dimorphism, such as the La Selle Thrush, Turdus swalesi, a vulnerable species endemic to Hispaniola. We captured individuals in southeastern Haiti, in 2019–2022. For each one, we collected contour feathers or blood samples for molecular sex identification based on the CHD-1 gene. In addition, we took body measurements of several captured individuals and recorded their weight. Out of a total of 65 birds, 45 were identified as males and 20 as females, indicative of a significantly male-biased sex ratio. However, analyses of first captures showed that the sex ratio at our study site was male-biased only outside of the breeding season, suggesting that females may disperse at that time while males remain on their territories. Sexual dimorphism was limited to wing chord length and tail length, with males being larger than females. Tail length was the best predictor of sex in a logistic regression model and correctly classified about 80% of individuals as male or female. We discuss our results in relation to previous studies of sex ratio and sexual dimorphism in turdid species and address their relevance for the conservation of avian species in one of the major protected forest areas in Haiti.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20762615
Volume :
14
Issue :
6
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Animals
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.220bc1bb3e14537a134488759321c3e
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060842