Raptor temperature regulation and energetics

• Main Author: Mosher, James Arthur
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: BYU ScholarsArchive 1975
• Subjects: Body temperature; Regulation; Energy metabolism; Owls; Falcons; Animal Sciences; Life Sciences; Ornithology; Aquila chrysaetos; golden eagle
• Online Access: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/7831; https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/context/etd/article/8831/viewcontent/Mosher_James_Z_LegacyETD.pdf

A review of energetics studies of raptorial species introduces four separate studies of temperature regulation by raptors. Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) nest site selection, as influenced by direction of exposure, is discussed. The data show strong directional preferences to the NNW by southern populations and SSE by northern populations. The tarsometatarsus is shown to have a thermoregulatory function in large falcons, and adaptations of this mechanism to varied habitats are examined. Color phase in Screech Owls (Otus asio) is shown to be related to metabolic differences that may explain the distributions of the color morphs. Development of thermoregulation in Flammulated Owls (Otus flammeolus) is examined.