Optimization of Territory Shape in Heterogeneous Habitats: A Field Study of the Red-Capped Cardinal (Paroaria gularis)

Abstract

Models were developed to examine two factors that may influence optimal territory shape in heterogeneous habitats, resource availability and defence coasts. These models were tested in a study of a population of red-capped cardinals (Paroaria gularis, L.) in Manu National Park, south-eastern Peru. Cardinals defend territories along the shores of oxbow lakes and rivers, with each territory containing two short stretches of shore that are on opposite sides of the water