An experimental model for understanding the dynamics of quail reproduction

Nadal, Jesús; Ponz, Carolina

doi:10.1007/s10344-015-0961-1

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Its protandrous nature sees males arriving at breeding grounds ahead of females. The population renewal occurs through successive waves of cohorts, enabling multiple reproductive attempts and maintaining high productivity (Nadal et al 2018 , 2019 ; Nadal and Ponz 2015 ). The historical use of the quail by humans for sustenance dates back so far that ancient records exist detailing its migratory behavior (Kennedy and Grivetti 1980 ), highlighting the longstanding relationship between human societies and this migratory bird.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The effects of cities on quail (Coturnix coturnix) migration: a disturbing story of population connectivity, health, and ecography

Nadal,

Sáez,

Volponi

et al. 2024

Environ Monit Assess

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The increasing impact of human activities on ecosystems is provoking a profound and dangerous effect, particularly in wildlife. Examining the historical migration patterns of quail (Coturnix coturnix) offers a compelling case study to demonstrate the repercussions of human actions on biodiversity. Urbanization trends, where people gravitate toward mega-urban areas, amplify this effect. The proliferation of artificial urban ecosystems extends its influence across every biome, as human reliance on infrastructure and food sources alters ecological dynamics extensively. We examine European quail migrations pre- and post-World War II and in the present day. Our study concentrates on the Italian peninsula, investigating the historical and contemporary recovery of ringed quail populations. To comprehend changes in quail migration, we utilize trajectory analysis, open statistical data, and linear generalized models. We found that while human population and economic growth have shown a linear increase, quail recovery rates exhibit a U-shaped trajectory, and cereal and legume production displays an inverse U-shaped pattern. Generalized linear models have unveiled the significant influence of several key factors—time periods, cereal and legume production, and human demographics—on quail recovery rates. These factors closely correlate with the levels of urbanization observed across these timeframes. These insights underscore the profound impact of expanding human populations and the rise of mega-urbanization on ecosystem dynamics and services. As our planet becomes more urbanized, the pressure on ecosystems intensifies, highlighting the urgent need for concerted efforts directed toward conserving and revitalizing ecosystem integrity. Simultaneously, manage the needs and demands of burgeoning mega-urban areas. Achieving this balance is pivotal to ensuring sustainable coexistence between urban improvement and the preservation of our natural environment.

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