Foraging ecology of the African Penguin Spheniscus demersus in relation to ocean physical processes.

Master Thesis

2012

Permanent link to this Item
http://hdl.handle.net/11427/4764
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thesis_sci_2012_van_eden_r.pdf (3.05 MB)
Authors
Van Eeden, Rowen Brandon
Supervisors
Pichegru, Lorien
Ryan, Peter G
Journal Title
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University of Cape Town

Department
Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology
Faculty
Faculty of Science
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Abstract
This research demonstrated the dual utility of bio-loggers as a method for generating accurate, high-resolution oceanographic data. These data can be used in future studies, generating a cross disciplinary platform for research. The thesis augments our knowledge base of the African Penguins foraging ecology. African Penguins show flexibility in their foraging behaviour by adjusting their dive behaviour to subsurface thermal structures. Penguins also demonstrated foraging optimization by using temperature cues and behavioral switching to maximize the probability of locating prey patches on a fine temporal and spatial scale.
Description

Includes abstract.

Keywords
Ornithology

Reference:

Van Eeden, R. 2012. Foraging ecology of the African Penguin Spheniscus demersus in relation to ocean physical processes. University of Cape Town.

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Masters