The scheduling of molt in migratory birds

Migration and morphometrics of Temminck's StintCalidris temminckiiat Ottenby, southern Sweden

“…This time budget outline shows that the summer schedule is indeed very tight for birds breeding at high latitudes (Piersma 2002). As typical in such species, moult is not undertaken on the breeding grounds but postponed until later on autumn staging areas or the wintering site (Holmgren & Hedenström 1995).…”

In Tundra Plovers the Frequency of Inner Flight Feather Replacement Varies with Length of Long-Distance Flights

“…This is especially relevant for Arctic breeders that are faced with narrow time schedules (e.g. Holmgren & Hedenström 1995, Barta et al 2008, Buehler & Piersma 2008, Conklin & Battley 2012, Dietz et al 2013. For them fuelling may have a higher priority.…”

“…Completeness of moult, its timing and the locations where it proceeds, are interconnected with various life history features, such as residence duration and food availability in breeding, staging and winter areas (e.g. Holmgren & Hedenström 1995, Barta et al 2008, Dietz et al 2013. In particular, in Arctic-breeding birds, time schedules may be very tight, forcing them to postpone moult -partly or completely -until they have reached their winter quarters (e.g.…”

Stable Isotope Research in Southern African Birds

“…The funnelling effect of different members of each sub-population into southern Africa therefore offers a unique opportunity to understand how these populations interact. With an understanding of moult patterns (Holmgren and Hedenström, 1995) and analysing stable isotopes of primary feathers of individuals at different roosts (breeding and non-breeding) across South Africa inferences on migratory origins and use of resources can be made.…”