THE STARRED ROBIN IN NATAL, PART 2: ANNUAL CYCLES AND FEEDING ECOLOGY

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Abstract
Young starred robins P. stellata disperse from their birthplace and evidently seldom return. Other immature starred robins move into the forests during April and May to form recruits to the local population. In addition to local dispersal, there is a notable altitudinal migration by some adults and immatures. The gonadal cycle of the adults follows a pattern normal for most small birds in southern Africa and shows an annual active phase starting in Oct. Immature 1 yr old males also undergo testicular enlargement but this appears not to culminate in spermatogenesis. An annual late-summer molt occurs and is completed in not less than 6 wk. A seasonal fluctuation in body weight occurs, with most individuals exhibiting marked weight increase at the onset of molt. The starred robin is primarily an insectivorous bird with a generalized feeding strategy. Beetles comprise the most common food items. Exploitation of different prey tends to follow seasonal availability in some cases. Periods of serious food shortage do not occur.