On some breeding parameters of Little Bittern at Haigam wetland, Kashmir (India). - M.F. Fazili, G.M. Shah, U. Jan, F.A. Ahangar. - Berkut. 19 (1-2). 2010. - P. 74-80.
Breeding biology of Little Bittern were studied at Haigam wetland, Kashmir (India) in 1991. Breeding occurred from June to August and was initiated by nest building. Both sexes built nest. Nests as well as nest sites are briefly described. Bitterns were territorial to limited extent. Average clutch size was 5.6 ± 0.7 eggs (± SD, n = 17), mean egg measurements were 34.3 ± 1.6 mm x 25.5 ± 0.7 mm (n = 24). Incubation was performed by both sexes, mean incubation period was 16.8 ± 0.8 days. Egg weight losses and comparison of nest attention during incubation by both the sexes are reported. Hatchlings were precocial and overall hatching success was 68.9%. The effect of predation in different habitats is reported. Fledging occurred at the age of 25 to 30 days. [English].
Key words: Little Bittern, Ixobrychus minutus, ecology, behaviour, egg, nest, incubation.
Address: M.F. Fazili, P.G. Department of Zoology, The University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Kashmir, 190006, India; e-mail: drmustahsonwl@kashmieuniversity.ac.in.