Reproduction and Survival of Radio-Marked Hen Ring-Necked Pheasants in Illinois

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Abstract
Reproductive success and survival rates were determined for 26 radio-marked hen pheasants (P. colchicus) in east central Illinois during breeding seasons spanning 1972-1980. Reproductive success (during either incubation or brood-rearing) or survival beyond 3 mo. was unlikely for hens equipped with radio packages weighing .gtoreq. 27 g. Longevity declined exponentially as the ratio of package weight:body weight increased over a range of 2.3-3.3% for 15 hens radio-marked either prior to incubation or during brood-rearing. The radio-marked cohort experienced lower survival rates than normal hen pheasant populations, longevity decreased with increased radio-package weight and package weight should not exceed a minimum necessary to ensure battery life over the course of the intended study.

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