Plasma corticosterone concentrations in European robins during spring and autumn migration

Abstract

To estimate differences in hormonal mechanisms of regulation of spring and autumn migration in European robins Erithacus rubecula, the plasma corticosterone (CORT) concentrations were compared in birds caught during both migratory seasons. A total of 414 blood samples were analyzed. It was found that the baseline and stress-induced CORT concentrations in free-living robins during spring migration were practically twice as high as during autumn passage. Our results demonstrate that autumn and spring migrations are independent stages of the avian annual cycle. Probably, the increase in the CORT concentrations in spring can be considered to be physiological preparation for the breeding season.