The Significance of Isotopic Ratios in Migratory Pathways

Authors

Rachel Hart, Brigham Young University
Kent Hatch, Brigham Young University

Keywords

isotopic ratios, migratory pathways, migration, birds

College

Life Sciences

Department

Biology

Abstract

Stable isotope research is an important asset in securing the migratory paths of birds. By matching elemental isotopic ratios in different parts of a bird’s body to the water it drinks, important stopover sites may be conserved and the biological phenomenon of migration may be preserved. Thus far, such research among migratory birds has suggested a positive correlation between certain elemental isotopic ratios found in water sources and those in the composition of bird feathers. Hydrogen (δD) and oxygen (18O and 16O) isotopes have been examined in scientific literature but have not been tested thoroughly, as there are still many possible problems associated with this method of research.

Recommended Citation

Hart, Rachel and Hatch, Kent (2013) "The Significance of Isotopic Ratios in Migratory Pathways," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1043.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1043