Factors determining Red-billed Tropicbird population success on small Caribbean islands

This study contributes to overall knowledge on seabirds, whose populations are declining worldwide and at risk of extinction, especially those breeding on small, isolated islands. This project relates to the WIAS mission, being improving our understanding of animals and their various roles for mankind, by disentangling the various aspects of Red-billed Tropicbird ecology and the threats faced by the species nesting on Caribbean islands. The long-term viability of Red-billed Tropicbirds depends on chick survival, sufficient food resources and gene flow between island populations. Globally significant breeding colonies may suffer from genetic isolation, even when populations are within sight of each other. Currently, only basic information exists on Red-billed Tropicbird reproductive success, fidelity and foraging ecology from a limited number of locations. Genetic studies on Red-billed Tropicbirds in the Caribbean are lacking entirely. The information presented can be replicated by researchers studying seabird populations elsewhere. Locally and regionally, the knowledge gained through this research will help conservationists assess the relevance and effectiveness of nature protection areas such as important bird areas (IBAs) and marine protected areas (MPAs), or whether these need to be re-evaluated or expanded. It will also suggest effective management strategies for the long-term conservation of this species.