Avian Incubation. Behaviour, Environment, And Evolution

Avian Incubation is the first scientific review of A factors affecting incubation in avian nests. These range from nest construction and egg characteristics to patterns of embryonic development. An extensive section describes the incubation behaviour of parents and embryos, while other chapters review brood patch physiology and the factors determining the incubation environment, including nest microbiology. The final section considers the ecological, energetic, and fitness costs of incubation. Written by authorities in their respective fields from around the world, this book provides a comprehensive review of this critical aspect of avian reproduction. Much of the data included bas not been previously published, and so Avian Incubation is not only an extensive reference text but is also a valuable contribution to our basic understanding of incubation.