Atoms to Migration Patterns

Many species of birds breed in the United States and Canada, and winter in the neotropics. To reach the tropics, many birds cross the southwestern deserts using riparian corridors. These narrow strips of freshwater-fed vegetation provide enough shelter and food (seeds and insects) to support the high energy demands of migrating birds. Increasing development in the west puts pressure on riparian areas. How will riparian habitat loss affect neotropical migrants?

Students in the van Riper lab use the San Pedro and Colorado Rivers to look at the patterns of migration through riparian corridors. Kristina Paxton used isotopes of hydrogen to link breeding grounds to migratory corridors in Wilson’s Warblers.


Publications:

Paxton, K.L., C. van Riper III, T.C.Theimer, and E.H.Paxton. 2007. Spatial and temporal migration patterns of Wilson's Warbler (Wilsonia pusilla) in the southwest as revealed by stable isotopes. Auk: 124(1):162-175