Adaptations of Horned Larks (Eremophila alpestris) to Hot Environments
Trost CH. 1972. Adaptations of Horned Larks (Eremophila alpestris) to Hot Environments. The Auk. 89(3):506-527
The adaptations of similar animals to different environments are of particular evolutionary interest. Only a few of the many studies of the adjustments of vertebrates to rigorous environments have dealt with closely related populations (or species) living in contrasting environments (Salt, 1952; Dawson, 1954; Cade and Bartholomew, 1959; Hudson and Kimzey, 1966; Brown, 1968). Most small birds are diurnal, and therefore are often exposed to extremes of heat and associated problems of temperature regulation. Consequently a bird may live in an entirely different microclimate than a small nocturnal mammal with which it is sympatric. The Horned Lark (Eremophila alpestris) is an excellent subject for study. It is ground-dwelling, diurnal, small (25-40 g), and occupies open country with low or sparse vegetation. It nests in grasslands, arctic and alpine tundra, salt marshes, and deserts. Such exposed habitats offer the lark little protection.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Trost, Charles
- Units
- BADL
- Keywords
- Animal Studies