Abstract Date palm trees, their cultivation and harvesting have become challenging due to infestations caused by some specific mites including Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Tetranychidae). Current research has been carried out to investigate the efficiency of nine pesticides against eggs and date palm mite, Oligonychus afrasiaticus against nine pesticides. Side effects of the nine pesticides were also examined on predatory mite, Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Phytoseiidae). Mites and their eggs were treated with the recommended dosage of nine pesticides namely, Bifenazate 24%, Bifenthrin 10%, Matrine 0.6%, Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%, Sulphur 99.5%, Micronized Sulphur 80%, Mineral oil 95%, Pyrethrin 1.5% and Hexythiazox 10%, while they were present in their natural environment on the date palm trees in the experimental fields. Highest mortality of 91.16% was observed when O. afrasiaticus was treated with Bifenazate (24%) followed by 87.31%, 85.20%, 72.06%, 71.34%, 65.35%, 64.14%, 61.06% and 24.25% in case of Bifenthrin 10%, Matrine 0.6%, Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%, Sulphur 99.5%, Micronized Sulphur 80%, Mineral oil 95%, Pyrethrin 1.5%, and Hexythiazox 10%, respectively. A minimum hatching of 25.74% was observed when eggs of O. afrasiaticus were treated with Hexythiazox 10% and the highest success of hatching (99.07%) was seen when treatment was given with Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectin 3%. When same trials with same nine pesticides were performed on predatory mite; Amblyseius swirskii, the highest mortality in terms of percentage reduction (75.63%) was observed with Bifenthrin and the lowest (14.69%) with Matrine. Nine pesticides used in this study have distinct toxicity against targeted mite, their eggs and the predatory mite. A two steps control strategy is recommended for this treatment. First spray Hexythiazox at the egg laying stage and then at the moving stage of mites by using Matrine which is toxic to mites but negligibly toxic to predatory mites. Further studies are recommended to evaluate varied actions of the pesticide against eggs, phytophagous mites, and predatory mites. McGregor (McGregor Tetranychidae. Tetranychidae . (Tetranychidae) mite AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Phytoseiidae. Phytoseiidae (Phytoseiidae) namely 24 24% 10 06 0 6 0.6% 37 3 3% 995 99 5 99.5% 80 80% 95 95% 15 1 1.5 fields 9116 91 16 91.16 O (24% 8731 87 31 87.31% 8520 85 20 85.20% 7206 72 72.06% 7134 71 34 71.34% 6535 65 35 65.35% 6414 64 14 64.14% 6106 61 61.06 2425 25 24.25 respectively 2574 74 25.74 99.07% 9907 07 (99.07% 75.63% 7563 75 63 (75.63% 14.69% 1469 69 (14.69% (Tetranychidae (Phytoseiidae 2 0.6 9 99.5 8 1. 911 91.1 (24 873 87.31 852 85.20 720 7 72.06 713 71.34 653 65.35 641 64.14 610 61.0 242 24.2 257 25.7 99.07 990 (99.07 75.63 756 (75.63 14.69 146 (14.69 0. 99. 91. (2 87.3 85.2 72.0 71.3 65.3 64.1 61. 24. 25. 99.0 (99.0 75.6 (75.6 14.6 (14.6 ( 87. 85. 72. 71. 65. 64. (99. 75. (75. 14. (14. (99 (75 (14 (9 (7 (1

Resumo As tamareiras, seu cultivo e colheita tornaram-se desafiadores devido às infestações causadas por alguns ácaros específicos, incluindo Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Tetranychidae). A pesquisa atual foi realizada para investigar a eficiência de nove pesticidas contra ovos e o ácaro da tamareira, Oligonychus afrasiaticus. Os efeitos colaterais dos nove pesticidas também foram examinados no ácaro predador, Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot (Phytoseiidae). Os ácaros e seus ovos foram tratados com a dosagem recomendada de nove pesticidas, a saber: Bifenazato 24%, Bifentrina 10%, Matrina 0,6%, Imidacloprida 37% + Abamectina 3%, Enxofre 99,5%, Enxofre Micronizado 80%, Óleo Mineral 95%, Piretrina 1,5% e Hexitiazox 10%, enquanto estavam presentes em seu ambiente natural nas tamareiras nos campos experimentais. A maior mortalidade de 91,16% foi observada quando O. afrasiaticus foi tratado com Bifenazato (24%), seguido por 87,31%, 85,20%, 72,06%, 71,34%, 65,35%, 64,14%, 61,06% e 24,25% no caso de Bifentrina 10%, Matrina 0,6%, Imidacloprida 37% + Abamectina 3%, Enxofre 99,5%, Enxofre Micronizado 80%, Óleo Mineral 95%, Piretrina 1,5% e Hexitiazox 10%, respectivamente. Uma eclosão mínima de 25,74% foi observada quando os ovos de O. afrasiaticus foram tratados com Hexythiazox 10%, e o maior sucesso de eclosão (99,07%) foi visto quando o tratamento foi realizado com Imidacloprid 37% + Abamectina 3%. Quando os mesmos ensaios com os mesmos nove pesticidas foram realizados no ácaro predador, Amblyseius swirskii, a maior mortalidade em termos de redução percentual (75,63%) foi observada com Bifenthrin e a menor (14,69%) com Matrine. Nove pesticidas usados neste estudo têm toxicidade distinta contra o ácaro alvo, seus ovos e o ácaro predador. Uma estratégia de controle em duas etapas é recomendada para este tratamento. Primeiro pulverize Hexythiazox no estágio de postura de ovos e depois no estágio de movimentação dos ácaros usando Matrina, que é tóxico para os ácaros, mas insignificantemente tóxico para os ácaros predadores. Estudos adicionais são recomendados para avaliar as variadas ações do pesticida contra ovos, ácaros fitófagos e ácaros predadores. tornaramse tornaram se específicos McGregor (McGregor Tetranychidae. Tetranychidae . (Tetranychidae) tamareira predador AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Phytoseiidae. Phytoseiidae (Phytoseiidae) saber 24 24% 10 10% 06 0 6 0,6% 37 3 3% 995 99 5 99,5% 80 80% 95 95% 15 1 1,5 experimentais 9116 91 16 91,16 O , (24%) 8731 87 31 87,31% 8520 85 20 85,20% 7206 72 72,06% 7134 71 34 71,34% 6535 65 35 65,35% 6414 64 14 64,14% 6106 61 61,06 2425 25 24,25 respectivamente 2574 74 25,74 99,07% 9907 07 (99,07% 75,63% 7563 75 63 (75,63% 14,69% 1469 69 (14,69% Matrine alvo predadores (Tetranychidae (Phytoseiidae 2 0,6 9 99,5 8 1, 911 91,1 (24% 873 87,31 852 85,20 720 7 72,06 713 71,34 653 65,35 641 64,14 610 61,0 242 24,2 257 25,7 99,07 990 (99,07 75,63 756 (75,63 14,69 146 (14,69 0, 99, 91, (24 87,3 85,2 72,0 71,3 65,3 64,1 61, 24, 25, 99,0 (99,0 75,6 (75,6 14,6 (14,6 (2 87, 85, 72, 71, 65, 64, (99, 75, (75, 14, (14, ( (99 (75 (14 (9 (7 (1

ABSTRACT The physical parameters of eggs significantly impact embryo development and hatching success. This study aimed to examine the influence of the egg shape index (SI), specific gravity (SG), weight loss (WL), and area-volume ratio (AV) on hatching eggs from brown-layer hen grandparents. A total of 7,500 eggs were randomly selected from two batches of Lohmann Brown grandparents at various ages (39, 44, 50, 58, and 66 weeks). SG was determined by flotation (1,070 to 1,090 g/L), while egg length, width, and weight were measured digitally. Each egg was tracked to determine hatching success, with unhatched eggs collected for embryonic diagnosis. Physical parameters were categorized into minor, intermediate, and major groups, based on viability frequency; and embryonic mortality was analyzed using the chi-square test and odds ratio (OR). The study found a lower probability of embryo death in eggs with intermediate SI (75.1% to 79%) and AV (1.01 cm²/cm³ to 1.04 cm²/cm³). No significant differences were observed between SG and WL groups. SI proved to be a reliable parameter for assessing egg quality and predicting hatchability. success SI, , (SI) SG, (SG) WL, (WL) areavolume area volume (AV brownlayer brown layer 7500 7 500 7,50 39, 39 (39 44 50 58 6 weeks. weeks . weeks) 1,070 1070 1 070 (1,07 1090 090 1,09 g/L, gL g/L g L g/L) length width digitally diagnosis minor groups frequency chisquare chi square OR. OR (OR) 75.1% 751 75 (75.1 79% 79 1.01 101 01 (1.0 cm²cm³ cmcm cm² cm³ cm cm²/cm 104 04 1.0 cm²/cm³. cm²/cm³) hatchability (SI (SG (WL 750 7,5 3 (3 4 5 1,07 107 07 (1,0 109 09 1,0 (OR 75.1 (75. 10 0 (1. cm²cm 1. 7, ( (1, 1, 75. (75 (1 (7

Abstract Cattle egret Bubulcus ibis, feeds on insect pests in many agro-ecosystems. Thus, there is an urgent need to study the breeding chronology of cattle egret, in order to develop suitable protection programs for this beneficial bird to perform its role as abiological control agent in Egyptian agro-ecosystems. The study was conducted at Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, from December 2018 to December 2020; in different habitats (irrigation canals, drainage canals, garbage collection areas and Abbasa ponds). The mean clutch size ranged from 2-5 eggs/nest with an incubation period ranging between 21-25 days. The mean percentage of hatching success was 90.21%, while the total number of mortality eggs was 47 and the total egg hatching was 433. Also the total number of nests located nearby tree trunks were 73, while nests located in the core of the tree were 47 nests, and nests located at the peripherals were 15 nests. ibis agroecosystems. agroecosystems agro ecosystems. ecosystems agro-ecosystems Thus Governorate Egypt 201 2020 irrigation canals ponds. ponds . ponds) 25 2 5 2- eggsnest nest 2125 21 21-2 days 9021 90 90.21% 4 433 73 1 20 202 212 21- 902 9 90.21 43 7 90.2 90.

Resumo A garça-vaqueira (Bubulcus ibis) alimenta-se de insetos-praga em muitos agroecossistemas. Assim, há uma necessidade urgente de estudar a cronologia reprodutiva da garça bovina, a fim de desenvolver programas de proteção adequados para que esta ave benéfica desempenhe seu papel como agente de controle biológico nos agroecossistemas egípcios. O estudo foi conduzido na província de Sharkia, no Egito, de dezembro de 2018 a dezembro de 2020; em diferentes habitats (canais de irrigação, canais de drenagem, áreas de coleta de lixo e lagoas Abbasa). O tamanho médio da ninhada variou de 2-5 ovos/ninho com um período de incubação variando entre 21-25 dias. A porcentagem média de sucesso de eclosão foi de 90,21%, enquanto o número total de ovos de mortalidade foi de 47 e o total de ovos eclodidos foi de 433. O número total de ninhos localizados próximos aos troncos das árvores foi de 73, enquanto os ninhos localizados no núcleo da árvore foram 47 ninhos, e 15 ninhos localizados nas periferias. garçavaqueira vaqueira Bubulcus ibis alimentase alimenta se insetospraga insetos praga Assim bovina egípcios Sharkia Egito 201 2020 irrigação drenagem Abbasa. Abbasa . Abbasa) 25 2 5 2- ovosninho ninho 2125 21 21-2 dias 9021 90 90,21% 4 433 73 1 periferias 20 202 212 21- 902 9 90,21 43 7 90,2 90,

Resumen La pérdida de hábitat de reproducción y la depredación de nidos son las principales causas del declive de las poblaciones del chorlo nevado (Charadrius nivosus) a nivel mundial. Evaluamos el efecto de la temporada, edad del nido, distancia al parche más cercano de vegetación, distancia al cuerpo de agua más cercano, tipo de hábitat y sustrato en la tasa de supervivencia diaria de los nidos del chorlo nevado. Durante 2014 y 2015, ubicamos 84 nidos en la laguna de Las Garzas-Chahuin-Chihua en Marismas Nacionales, Nayarit, México. Usamos el software MARK para estimar la tasa de supervivencia diaria, el cual fue de 0.969 (95% CI = 0.95 0.97) para ambas temporadas reproductivas, con un éxito de anidación del 42%. Un total de 44 nidos (52%) fueron exitosos mientras que 40 (48%) fracasaron. Las principales causas de fracaso fueron depredación (n = 30; 75% de nidos fracasados) e inundaciones (n = 9; 22.5% de nidos fracasados); un nido (2.5%) se perdió por causas desconocidas. La tasa diaria de supervivencia se incrementó con la edad del nido y la distancia a un parche de vegetación. Por el contrario, la tasa de supervivencia disminuyó con el avance de la temporada, sugiriendo una alta probabilidad de éxito en nidos iniciados al principio de la temporada. Nuestros resultados muestran la importancia de diferentes factores positivos y negativos que afectan la supervivencia de los nidos, que podrían considerarse como parte de estrategias de conservación.

Abstract Breeding habitat loss and nest predation are considered the main causes of Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus) populations decline worldwide. We evaluated the effects of season, nest age, distance to nearest vegetation patch, distance to nearest body of water, habitat type, and nesting substrate on the daily survival rate of Snowy Plover nests. During 2014-2015, we located 84 nests in Las Garzas-Chahuin-Chihua lagoon in Marismas Nacionales, Nayarit, Mexico. We used MARK software to estimate daily nest survival rate, which was 0.969 (95% CI = 0.95 0.97) for both breeding seasons combined, with a 42% finite nesting success. A total of 44 nests (52%) were successful, while 40 (48%) failed. The main causes of nest failure were predation (n = 30; 75% of failed nests) and flooding (n = 9; 22.5% of failed nests); one nest was lost due to unknown causes (2.5%). Daily survival rate increased with nest age and distance from the nearest vegetation patch. By contrast, daily survival rate decreased with the progression of the breeding season; a higher probability of nest success was evident when established early in the breeding season. Our results show the importance of different positive and negative factors influencing nest survival that might be considered as part of conservation strategies.

RESUMEN Se describen los procesos de conservación y ecología de anidación de la tortuga carey (Eretmochelys imbricata), producto del monitoreo sistemático entre 2018 y 2019 en el corregimiento de Rincón del Mar, San Onofre, Sucre. Se registraron seis nidadas de tortuga carey, todos fueron dejadas in situ y un nido fue saqueado por humanos. Las hembras desovaron un total de 761 huevos en cinco nidadas (promedio ± DE: 152,2 ± 15,5 huevos por nidada). El éxito de eclosión fue en promedio 78,2 ± 12,4 % y el éxito de emergencia fue en promedio 74,7 ± 14,1 % (n = 5). El periodo de incubación fue en promedio de 54 ± 7,8 días (n = 4). Fueron liberadas 591 crías al mar, de las cuales 22 (3,72 %), fueron rescatadas y liberadas con la comunidad. Además, se realizaron mediciones físicas de los nidos (ancho, profundidad, distancia a la playa), medidas morfométricas de los neonatos (ARC, LRC y peso) y se identificaron amenazas en el sector. Nuestros resultados contribuyen al conocimiento del estado actual de la tortuga carey, así como lo indispensable de la participación comunitaria para su conservación en Rincón del Mar.

ABSTRACT The conservation and nesting ecology of the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) are described, as a result of a systematic monitoring between 2018 and 2019 in the municipality of Rincón del Mar, San Onofre, Sucre. Six hawksbill turtle nests were recorded in situ, one nest was poached by humans. The nesting female spawned a total of 761 eggs in five clutches (mean 152.2 ± 15.5 eggs per clutch). Mean hatching success was 78.2 ± 12.4 % and the mean emergence success was 74.7 ± 14.1 % (n = 5). The mean incubation period was 54 ± 7.8 days (n = 4). 591 hatchlings were released into the sea, of which 22 (3.72 %) were rescued and released with the community. In addition, physical measurements of the nests (width, depth, distance to the beach) and morphometric measurements of the hatchlings (SCW, SLC and weight) were carried out. Finally, 14 natural and anthropogenic threats were identified for the species in Rincón del Mar and different degrees of threat, according to the beach sector, being high, medium and low for Chichimán, Ana Gómez and Balsillas with Punta Gorda respectively. Our results contribute to the knowledge of the current status of the hawksbill turtle, as well as the importance of the community participation, systematic and standardized monitoring, and the urgency of generating plans and management units for their conservation in Rincón del Mar.

Resumen Introducción: Para incrementar el número de crías de tortugas marinas, es necesario mejorar estrategias de conservación, como incubación de nidos, en condiciones de vivero que contrarresten los efectos de las condiciones climáticas extremas. Objetivo: Comparar cinco parámetros de éxito reproductivo (éxito de eclosión, huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas, mortalidad embrionaria y período de incubación) de la tortuga marina Lepidochelys olivacea. Métodos: Se evaluó la incubación de nidos bajo dos períodos de reubicación de nidos (P1 ~28.8 °C agosto-septiembre y P2 ~27.1 °C octubre-noviembre, temperatura ambiental promedio, bajo condiciones de vivero, en el 2018 en Guerrero, México. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el éxito de eclosión y la mortalidad embrionaria entre los períodos de reubicación de nidos (P < 0.001). En P1, se observaron valores más bajos de éxito de eclosión (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) y valores más altos de mortalidad embrionaria (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) comparados con los de P2. Es importante señalar que, en el presente estudio la mortalidad embrionaria se presentó en una etapa tardía de desarrollo, es decir, en embriones casi completamente desarrollados. No se encontraron diferencias entre periodos respecto a los parámetros de huevos sin desarrollo aparente, crías muertas y período de incubación. Conclusiones: Las diferencias entre las condiciones ambientales durante el primer período de reubicación de nidos en comparación con el segundo período parecen afectar el éxito de eclosión y mortalidad embrionaria de L. olivacea. Por lo tanto, es importante tomar medidas al respecto durante esta etapa de incubación para tratar de mejorar la incubación de nidos bajo condiciones de vivero.

Abstract Introduction: In order to increase the number of sea turtle hatchlings, it is necessary to improve conservation strategies, such as nest incubation in hatchery conditions that counteract the effects of extreme climatic conditions. Objective: To compare five reproductive success parameters (hatching success, eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings, embryonic mortality, and incubation period) of the sea turtle Lepidochelys olivacea. Methods: The incubation of nests was evaluated under two periods of nest relocation, P1 ~28.8 °C (August and September) and P2 ~27.1 °C (October and November), average ambient temperature, under hatchery condition, in 2018 in Guerrero, Mexico. Results: Significant differences were found in hatching success and embryonic mortality between nest relocation periods (P < 0.001). In P1, lower values of hatching success (77.0 % P1 vs 88.6 % P2) and higher values of embryonic mortality (13.7 % P1 vs 3.3 % P2) were observed compared to those of P2. It’s important pointing that, in the present study, embryonic mortality occurred at a late stage of development, that is, in almost fully developed embryos. No differences were found between periods regarding the parameters eggs with no apparent embryonic development, dead hatchlings and incubation period. Conclusions: The differences between the environmental conditions during the first period of nest relocation compared to the second period, respectively, seem to affect the hatching success and embryonic mortality of L. olivacea. Therefore, it is important to take action on this issue during this incubation stage to try to improve the incubation of nests under hatchery conditions.

Abstract At the marine turtle conservation program in Boca de Tomates, Jalisco, Mexico, all nests are relocated to fenced-off beach hatchery or polystyrene boxes due to illegal egg collection, predation, erosion, and high sand temperatures. For both methods we evaluated the following nest viability and hatchling quality parameters: hatching success, nest temperatures, incubation duration, and hatchling quality (locomotor performance, morphometrics, weight, and congenital malformations). Hatching success was significantly higher in the beach hatchery (mean 77.4%, n = 1,368) than in boxes (average 59.91%, n = 1,160) (P < 0.001). The beach hatchery nests hatched in less time (hatchery = 46 d, boxes = 51 d) (P < 0.001) due to the significantly higher mean temperature (hatchery = 32.62 ºC, boxes 30.58 ºC) (P < 0.001). The hatchery was exposed to less temperature variability per day (hatchery = 1.46 ºC, boxes = 2.69 ºC) (P < 0.001). To test hatchling quality, 10 hatchlings were randomly selected from each nest (n = 254). The weight, size, and locomotor performance (righting response and time to crawl 3 m) of these organisms were recorded. Live and dead neonates were carefully inspected for malformations (n = 2,000). No significant difference was found between incubation methods in any hatchling quality parameter (P > 0.050). The malformations at this site have low prevalence (hatchery = 1.35%, boxes = 1.89%) and low intensity index per organism (hatchery = 1.52, boxes = 1.89) compared to other studies and species. This is the first study, to our knowledge, that compares hatchling quality from 2 ex situ incubation methods in a single species (Lepidochelys olivacea), at the same location, and during the same period of time. Carrying out studies such as this one is important, since the quality of hatchlings can contribute to their ability to survive and reproduce in the future.

Resumen Dentro del programa de conservación de tortugas marinas en Boca de Tomates, Jalisco (México), todos los nidos de Lepidochelys olivacea son reubicados a corral de playa o a cajas de poliestireno debido a la recolección ilegal de huevos, la depredación, la erosión y las altas temperaturas de la arena. Con ambos métodos de incubación evaluamos los siguientes términos de viabilidad del nido y calidad de los neonatos: éxito de eclosión, temperatura del nido, duración de incubación y calidad de neonatos (desempeño locomotor, morfometría, peso y malformaciones congénitas). El éxito de eclosión fue significativamente mayor en corral (promedio = 77.4%, n = 1368) que en cajas (promedio = 59.91%, n = 1,160) (P < 0.001). Los nidos incubados en corral eclosionaron en menor tiempo que aquellos incubados en cajas (corral = 46 d, cajas = 51 d) (P < 0.001) debido a una temperatura promedio significativamente más elevada (corral = 32.62 ºC, cajas = 30.58 ºC) (P < 0.001). El corral fue expuesto a menor variabilidad de la fluctuación térmica diaria (corral = 1.46 ºC, cajas = 2.69 ºC) (P < 0.001). No encontramos diferencia significativa en ningún parámetro de calidad de los neonatos entre los métodos de incubación (P > 0.050). Determinamos que las malformaciones en L. olivacea tienen baja prevalencia (corral = 1.35%, caja = 1.89%) y bajo índice de intensidad por organismo (corral = 1.52, cajas = 1.89) en este sitio. Este es el primer estudio que conocemos que compara la calidad de neonatos de una misma especie (L. olivacea) entre estos 2 métodos de incubación ex situ en la misma ubicación y durante el mismo periodo de tiempo. Realizar estudios similares a este es importante, puesto que la calidad de los neonatos puede contribuir a su capacidad de supervivencia y reproducción.

Resumen Introducción: A pesar de que las tortugas golfinas (Lepidochelys olivacea) son las tortugas marinas más abundantes del mundo, su información cuantitativa disponible es escasa y se encuentra distribuida de manera desigual entre regiones. Existen muchos programas de manejo y conservación para esta especie, y sus evaluaciones son necesarias para identificar tendencias de anidación y poder manejar de manera efectiva los programas de conservación actuales. PROTORMAR-UAS es un programa de Investigación y Conservación de la tortuga golfina creado por la Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, México. El Programa cuenta con dos estaciones biológicas: Santuario de Playa Ceuta (SPC) y Playa Caimanero (PC). Objetivo: Evaluar la tendencia de anidación de la tortuga golfina en dos playas del noroeste de México y predecir las tendencias prospectivas de anidación para los próximos 30 años. Métodos: A partir de los datos de registros anuales de anidación de 40 años para SPC (1976-2016) y 30 años para PC (1986-2016), evaluamos las tendencias de anidación, el éxito de la eclosión y los problemas de depredación y saqueo de nidos de la tortuga golfina en las dos playas del noroeste de México. Posteriormente, se calcularon las estimaciones prospectivas de anidación para los próximos 30 años usando un modelo predictivo de series de tiempo. Resultados: Se identificó una correlación positiva y significativa entre el registro anual de nidos y el tiempo de estudio para ambas playas (rho = 0.850, P ≤ 0.01 para SPC; rho = 0.677 y P ≤ 0.01 para PC); así como el éxito de eclosión promedio de 65.09 para SPC y de 60.72 % para PC. El modelo predictivo de series de tiempo indicó que las anidaciones continuarán aumentando para el 2045, tres veces para SPC y seis para PC, con respecto al último año de monitoreo. Conclusiones: Hay una clara tendencia positiva de anidación de la tortuga golfina en ambos sitios, lo cual es consistente con la tendencia observada en otros estudios recientes de la región. Por lo tanto, sugerimos incluir a PC como un área de anidación legalmente protegida, la cual se ubica en los límites latitudinales de anidación de la tortuga golfina, dada la necesidad de contar con recursos disponibles para la operación del campamento ante el aumento de anidaciones y de problemas de depredación y saqueo. Porque en México operar una playa de anidación sin ningún estatus de protección implica no tener presupuesto para su manejo.

Abstract Introduction: Although olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) are the most abundant sea turtles in the world, quantitative information is scarce and unevenly distributed among regions. There are many management and conservation programs for this species, and assessments are necessary to identify nesting trends and effectively manage current conservation programs. PROTORMAR-UAS is a Research and Conservation program for the olive ridley turtle created by the Autonomous University of Sinaloa, Mexico. The program utilizes two biological stations: Santuario Playa Ceuta (SPC) and Playa Caimanero (PC). Objective: To evaluate the nesting trend of olive ridley turtles on two beaches in Northwestern Mexico and to predict prospective nesting trends for the next 30 years. Methods: Using annual nesting data collected over 40 years at SPC (1976-2016) and 30 years at PC (1986-2016), we evaluated nesting trends, hatching success, predation and poaching of olive ridley turtles on the two beaches in Northwestern Mexico. Then, prospective nesting estimates for the next 30 years were calculated predictive time series model. Results: A positive and significant correlation was identified between the number of annual nests and time for both beaches (rho = 0.850, P ≤ 0.01 for SPC; rho = 0.677, P ≤ 0.01 for PC); the average hatching success rates were 65.09 at SPC and 60.72 % at PC. The predictive time-series model indicated that the numbers of nests will continue to increase through 2045, increasing three-fold at SPC and six-fold at PC with respect to the last year of monitoring. Conclusions: There was a clear positive trend in the number of olive ridley sea turtle nests at both sites, which is consistent with trends found in other recent studies from the region. Therefore, we suggest that PC be designated a legally protected nesting area since it is located within the latitudinal limits of olive ridley nesting and given the need for resources for camp operation considering increased nesting and current problems with predation and poaching. Because in Mexico operating a nesting beach without any protection status implies not having a budget for its management.

Resumo: Este estudo permitiu o monitoramento de ninhos de tartarugas marinhas em uma região conhecida como Bacia Potiguar, que se estende da região norte do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte (5 ° 4’1,15 “S, 36 ° 4’36,41” W) até o leste do Estado do Ceará (4 ° 38’48,28 “S, 37 ° 32’52,08” W), no Brasil. Coletamos dados de janeiro de 2011 a dezembro de 2019 com o objetivo de identificar as espécies de tartarugas marinhas que desovam na bacia, analisar o padrão espaço-temporal de nidificação, as características dos ninhos, e registrar os efeitos de fatores ambientais e antrópicos. Uma equipe de campo examinou rastros de tartarugas marinhas e sinais de ninhos. As ninhadas das tartarugas foram monitoradas diariamente até que os filhotes emergissem dos ninhos. Monitoramos ninhos de tartarugas-de-pente (Eretmochelys imbricata; n = 238) e tartarugas-oliva (Lepidochelys olivacea; n = 103). A época de nidificação para E. imbricata ocorreu entre dezembro e maio e para L. olivacea de março a agosto. Tartarugas-de-pente apresentaram maior tamanho das ninhadas, tempo de incubação, número de ovos não eclodidos e número de filhotes mortos quando comparado com tartarugas-oliva; no entanto, apresentaram menor sucesso de eclosão. Precipitação entre 0 e 22 mm e umidade relativa (UR) maior que 69% aumentaram a taxa de sucesso de eclosão para E. imbricata; entretanto, chuvas acima de 11 mm e UR 64% tiveram o mesmo efeito para L. olivacea. Sinais de roubo de ovos e presença humana (por exemplo, tráfego de veículos e resíduos de plástico na praia) foram registrados e são considerados ameaças aos ninhos. Os resultados do nosso estudo de monitoramento de longo prazo na Bacia Potiguar fornecem base para a implementação de medidas de mitigação e adoção de políticas públicas em praias de desova nesta região brasileira.

Abstract: This study monitored marine turtle nests in a region known as the Potiguar Basin, which stretches from the northern region of Rio Grande do Norte State (5°4’1.15” S, 36°4’36.41” W) to eastern Ceará State (4°38’48.28” S, 37°32’52.08” W) in Brazil. We collected data from January 2011 to December 2019 to identify species of sea turtles that spawn in the basin, to analyze the nesting spatial-temporal pattern and nests characteristics, and to record effects of environmental and anthropic factors on nests. A field team examined sea turtle tracks and nests signs. Turtle clutches were monitored daily until hatchings emerged from the nests. We monitored nests of hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata; n = 238) and olive Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea; n = 103). The nesting season for E. imbricata occurred between December and May and for L. olivacea from March to August. Hawksbills had clutch size, incubation time, number of unhatched eggs, and dead hatchlings higher than olive Ridley turtles; nevertheless, they presented lower hatching success. Precipitation between 0 and 22 mm and relative humidity (RH) higher than 69% increased the hatching success rate for E. imbricata; however, rainfall above 11 mm and RH 64% had the same effect for L. olivacea. Signs of egg theft and human presence (e.g. vehicle traffic and plastic residues on the beach) were recorded and are considered threats to nests. The results of our long-term monitoring study in the Potiguar Basin provide basis for the implementation of mitigation measures and adoption of management policies at nesting beaches in this Brazilian region.

Green sea turtles are one of the two species of marine turtles known to nest in the Maldives. The prevalent time of nesting seems to be inconsistent throughout the island nation. In this study, sea turtle nesting activity was monitored on the island of Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in Baa Atoll over a period of 12 months. A total of 13 nests were confirmed with a median hatching success rate of 89.58% as ascertained by nest excavation. In one of the nests, a severely deformed hatchling with polycephaly, an opening in the neck area and a lordotic spine was found, and we investigated in detail with radiographic images and a necropsy. Our findings support the importance of consistent nesting activity and nest monitoring efforts in the country as a basis for conservation efforts.

Resumen Introducción: Lepidochelys olivacea es la tortuga marina más abundante del Pacífico colombiano y las condiciones oceanográficas en el Pacífico Oriental Tropical podrían tener un efecto en su comportamiento reproductivo. Objetivo: Evaluar la relación entre los aspectos reproductivos de L. olivacea anidantes en isla Gorgona y la temperatura superficial del mar a escala local y regional. Métodos: Se estableció la información promedio mensual de los atributos asociados con las hembras anidantes, nidos, huevos y neonatos utilizando los registros del monitoreo de anidación del Parque Natural Nacional Gorgona y se correlacionaron (correlación cruzada) con la temperatura superficial del mar de la Ensenada de Panamá y las aguas de Gorgona, y con la variabilidad en la temperatura de las regiones El Niño 1+2, El Niño 3, El Niño 3.4 y El Niño 4, sus anomalías térmicas y con los índices ONI y SOI. Las correlaciones significativas se incluyeron en modelos aditivos generalizados. Resultados: Las correlaciones inversas más altas, considerando que la máxima correlación es 1 se establecieron entre las visitas a la playa, el número de hembras anidantes, el número de nidos, el tamaño de las nidadas, los días de incubación y el éxito de eclosión y la región Niño 1+2 con un rezago de 12 meses, mientras que el diámetro y el peso de los huevos, el largo y ancho del caparazón y peso de los neonatos se correlacionaron con la anomalía de Niño 4 y los índices SOI y ONI. También se encontró que existe una tendencia no lineal a disminuir el número de hembras anidantes, número de nidos, tamaño de nidadas, diámetro y el peso de los huevos con anomalías regionales positivas. Conclusiones: Los atributos de anidación de L. olivacea en Gorgona se correlacionan principalmente con las variaciones en la temperatura superficial del mar regional, siendo bajos a temperaturas altas en el año anterior a la anidación (rezago de 12 meses).

Abstract Introduction: Lepidochelys olivacea is the most abundant sea turtle in the Colombian Pacific and oceanographic conditions at the Eastern Tropical Pacific may have an effect on its reproductive behavior Objective: To assess the relationship between reproductive aspects of L. olivacea nesting at Gorgona island and sea surface temperature at local and regional scales. Methods: Monthly mean data of reproductive attributes associated with nesting females, nests, eggs and hatchlings were established using records from Gorgona’s National Natural Park nesting monitoring and were correlated (cross-correlations) with SST of Gorgona island and Panama Bight, and with the temperature variability of the El Niño 1+2, El Niño 3, El Niño 3.4 and El Niño 4 regions, their thermal anomalies, and the ONI and SOI indexes. Significant correlations were included in a Generalized Additive Model. Results: Highest inverse correlation since maximum correlation is 1 was established between visits to the beach, number of nesting females, number of nests, clutch size, incubation days and hatching success and Niño 1+2 region with a lag of 12 months, whereas egg diameter, egg weight, straight carapace length and width and weight of hatchlings were correlated with Niño 4 anomaly, SOI and ONI indexes. It was also found that there is a non-linear tendency to decrease number of nesting females, number of nests, clutch size, egg diameter and egg weight with regional positive anomalies. Conclusions: Nesting attributes of L. olivacea in Gorgona correlate mainly with variations in regional SST, being low at high sea surface temperatures the year prior to nesting (12-month lag).

Abstract We describe the presence, structure, number of eggs, and hatching success of Rallus obsoletus levipes (Ridgway´s rail), a bird species protected in Mexico and the USA, during the 2016 to 2018 nesting seasons at Estero Punta Banda (EPB), Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. The number of eggs per nest was 6, 7, or 8, and hatching success 0, 75, or 100%. We document the presence, abundance, and density of Geukensia demissa, (Atlantic ribbed mussel) an invasive bivalve in the estuary study area. G. demissa density per marsh area: Internal Marsh (MI) 5.36/m2, Middle Marsh (MM) 6.94, and External Marsh (ME) 3.52. G. demissa density isn’t independent of marsh area, p < 0.001. We document the dead of two R. o. levipes chicks found trapped and dead in the G. demissa valves during EPB high tides. We did not find an association between dominant vegetation, Spartina folios and Salicornia spp. and the presence of G. demissa. Its presence seems to be independent of vegetation presence. The permanence of R. o. levipes at EPB depends on a better knowledge of the population and its interaction with G. demissa and other threats at EPB. We discuss the role of G. demissa in the future of R. o. levipes at EPB. New proposals have to be made such that sites with an elevation higher than the mean tide level are considered as critical for the nesting and survival of the bird.

Resumen Describimos la presencia, estructura, número de huevos y éxito de eclosión de los nidos de Rallus obsoletus levipes (rascón picudo), un ave protegida en México y Estados Unidos, durante las temporadas de anidación de 2016 a 2018 en el Estero de Punta Banda (EPB), Ensenada, Baja California, México. El número de huevos por nido fue de 6, 7 u 8 y el éxito de eclosión de 0, 75 o 100%. Asimismo reportamos la abundancia y densidad de Geukensia demissa (mejillón rayado, un bivalvo invasor) en el sitio de estudio. Las densidades de G. demissa por zona de marisma fueron: Marisma Interna (MI) 5.36/m2, Marisma Media (MM) 6.94 y Marisma Externa (ME) 3.52. El número de bivalvos no es independiente de la zona de marisma, p < 0.001. Documentamos la muerte de dos polluelos de R. o. levipes encontrados muertos y ahogados en las valvas de G. demissa durante mareas altas en el EPB. No encontramos una asociación entre la cobertura vegetal dominante, Spartia foliosa y Salicornia spp. y la presencia de G. demissa. Su presencia parece ser independiente de la presencia de vegetación. La permanencia de R. o. levipes en el EPB depende de un mejor conocimiento de la población y sus interacciones con G. demissa y otras amenazas en el EPB. Discutimos el rol de G. demissa en el futuro de R. o. levipes en el EPB. Se deben elaborar propuestas para que los sitios con una elevación mayor al nivel medio de marea sean considerados como críticos para la anidación y persistencia del ave.

ABSTRACT This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of egg weight and egg physical characteristics on embryonic development, hatchability, and hatchling weight of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). In total, 689 eggs were classified in two categories: small (<13.5 g) or large (≥13.5 g), and different external eggshell and internal quality traits were measured. On days 6 and 14 of incubation, tissue triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were extracted from embryos in both egg sizes and analyzed. Relative to internal egg-quality traits, large eggs had significantly higher yolk height, yolk diameter, yolk weight, albumen height, and albumen weight than small eggs (p≤0.01). However, Haugh unit score (p=0.27) was not significantly different between the two egg sizes. Relative to eggshell quality parameters, large eggs had significantly higher total pore count, surface area, eggshell volume, and eggshell weight than small eggs (p≤0.05), with consequent higher hatchability rate and hatchling weight. Pearson’s correlation coefficients revealed significant correlations (p≤0.05) between egg weight and different external and internal egg quality parameters. Thyroid hormone levels were not significantly different between egg groups on d 6 day, while on d 14, a significant difference was recorded (p≤0.05). In conclusion, larger egg sizes are recommended to obtain better hatchability, lower embryonic death rates, and heavier hatchlings compared with smaller eggs of Japanese quails.

In this work we make the first contribution on the breeding and feeding ecology of the Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) in Chubut Province, Argentina. During the 2012-2013 breeding season three nests were located; we recorded the chronology and reproductive parameters, and counted and identified preys. The average clutch size observed was 2.3 eggs per nest. The hatching success was 100% for two of the nests and 50% for the other, the breeding success was 100% in the three nests and the average number of fledglings of 2 per pair. The permanence of the nestlings in the nest fluctuated between 9-12 weeks, a period longer than that described in other studies. The European Hare (Lepus europaeus) was the main prey and the recorded food spectrum was similar to that of previous studies.

En este trabajo se realiza el primer aporte de información sobre la ecología reproductiva y alimentaria del Águila Mora (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) en la provincia de Chubut, Argentina. Durante la temporada reproductiva 2012-2013 se localizaron tres nidos en los cuales se registraron la cronología y parámetros reproductivos, y se contabilizaron e identificaron las presas. El tamaño de puesta promedio observado fue de 2.3 huevos por nido. El éxito de eclosión fue del 100% para dos de los nidos y del 50% para el restante, el éxito de cría fue del 100% en los tres nidos y el número promedio de pichones emancipados de 2 por pareja. La permanencia de los pichones en el nido fluctúo entre 9-12 semanas, un periodo mayor al descripto en otros estudios. La Liebre Europea (Lepus europaeus) fue la presa principal y el espectro alimentario registrado fue similar al de trabajos previos.

Abstract Background: The Crocodylia begin their life by overcoming the incubation stage with group hatching. Incubation temperature is important for the development of the embryos and the duration of the hatching process, during which they emit sounds. Goals: The effect of the size of the clutch on the duration and success of hatching is reported for the first time, and the hatching process is described. Methods: We used four clutches supplied by the “Granja de Lagartos” farm in Tabasco, Mexico, from the 2010 breeding season, and each was distributed in containers to integrate three clutches of different size: large (15 eggs), medium (nine eggs), and small (one egg). We monitored the temperature, relative humidity, and the number of eggs hatched in each clutch. The duration of hatching and the incubation period were statistically compared, as well as hatching success among the three brood sizes. We made sure that incubation conditions were the same for all boxes. Results: The small clutches (x̄ = 3340, ± 2794 min) and the medium-sized ones (x̄ = 1844 ± 476 min) took less minutes to hatch, and both took less time than the large clutches (x̄ = 9431 ± 768 min). The hatchings began with the vocalization of pre-hatching calls, heard up to a week before eclosion. Conclusions: The size of the clutch influences the duration of hatching, but is not related to hatching success.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los Crocodylia inician su historia de vida al superar la etapa de incubación con la eclosión en grupo. La temperatura de incubación es importante para el desarrollo de los embriones y el proceso de eclosión, durante el cual emiten sonidos. Objetivos: Reportar la influencia del tamaño de la nidada sobre la duración y el éxito de eclosión, y describir dicho proceso. Métodos: Se emplearon cuatro nidadas de Crocodylus moreletii de la Unidad de Manejo para la Conservación de la Vida Silvestre (UMA) Granja de Lagartos, en Tabasco, México. Con estas se integraron tres nidadas de diferente tamaño: grande (15 huevos), mediana (9 huevos) y pequeña (un huevo). Se monitorizó la temperatura, la humedad relativa y el número de huevos eclosionados y se compararon estadísticamente la duración de las eclosiones y el periodo de incubación, así como el éxito de la eclosión entre los tres tamaños de nidadas. Por último, se verificó que las condiciones de incubación fueran iguales para todas las nidadas. Resultados: Las nidadas pequeñas (x̄ = 3340 ± 2794) y las medianas (x̄ = 1844 ± 476) tardaron menos minutos en eclosionar en comparación con las nidadas grandes (x̄ = 9431 ± 768). Mientras que el éxito de la eclosión (expresado en porcentaje) y la duración en días del periodo de incubación no mostraron diferencias entre los tres tamaños de nidada. Las eclosiones iniciaron con la emisión de los llamados preeclosionales, los cuales se escucharon una semana antes de la eclosión. Conclusiones: El tamaño de nidada influye en la duración de la eclosión, pero no influye sobre su éxito.