International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 97-110 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 100 those from continuous habitats, suggesting that fragmentation forces birds to adapt their migratory behaviors to navigate through human-modified landscapes (Cornelius et al., 2017). Additionally, the disruption of migratory routes can lead to changes in the timing of migration, which can affect breeding success and survival rates (Lampila et al., 2005). Moreover, the fragmentation of habitats can lead to a reduction in the availability of stopover sites, which are crucial for migratory birds to rest and refuel. This can result in longer and more strenuous migrations, further impacting the birds' overall fitness and survival. The altered migration patterns can also lead to changes in the distribution of bird populations, with some species becoming more localized and others expanding their ranges in search of suitable habitats (Bregman et al., 2014). These changes can have cascading effects on the ecosystems that these birds inhabit, as they play critical roles in processes such as seed dispersal and insect population control. 4.2 Changes in mating behaviors Habitat fragmentation can also lead to significant changes in the mating behaviors of birds. Fragmented habitats often result in smaller, isolated populations, which can reduce the availability of mates and increase the likelihood of inbreeding. This can lead to changes in mating strategies, such as increased mate searching and altered courtship behaviors. For example, studies have shown that pairing success is closely associated with fragmentation, indicating that birds in fragmented habitats may have to invest more effort in finding and securing mates (Lampila et al., 2005). Additionally, the reduced availability of suitable nesting sites in fragmented habitats can lead to increased competition for these sites(Figure 1), further influencing mating behaviors. Coddington et al. (2023) studied the capture rates of adult breeding birds and fledglings with different nesting strategies in primary forests, and forest fragments before and after isolation. The study found that habitat fragmentation had the greatest impact on open-cup nesting birds and the least impact on cavity-nesting birds. The research emphasizes the negative effects of forest fragmentation on bird diversity and population structure, particularly for species that rely on open nesting environments. Furthermore, habitat fragmentation can affect the social structure of bird populations, leading to changes in mating systems. In some cases, birds may shift from monogamous to polygamous mating systems in response to the altered availability of mates and resources. This can have significant implications for reproductive success and population dynamics. For instance, increased nest predation and parasitism in fragmented habitats can reduce reproductive success, leading to changes in the timing and frequency of breeding attempts. These changes in mating behaviors can ultimately impact the genetic diversity and long-term viability of bird populations in fragmented landscapes (Khimoun et al., 2016). 4.3 Modification of feeding habits Habitat fragmentation can lead to significant modifications in the feeding habits of birds. Fragmented habitats often result in changes in the availability and distribution of food resources, forcing birds to adapt their foraging strategies. For example, studies have shown that fragmentation can lead to a decline in the prevalence of insectivores and large frugivores, particularly in smaller habitat fragments (Bregman et al., 2014). This suggests that birds may need to shift their diets or foraging behaviors to cope with the altered availability of food resources. Additionally, the increased edge effects in fragmented habitats can lead to changes in the types of prey available, further influencing feeding habits (Rossetti et al., 2017). Moreover, habitat fragmentation can impact the feeding efficiency of birds by increasing the time and energy required to locate and capture food. This can lead to changes in foraging behaviors, such as increased foraging range and altered foraging techniques. For instance, birds in fragmented landscapes may need to spend more time foraging in less optimal areas, which can reduce their overall feeding efficiency and impact their fitness and survival (Korfanta et al., 2012). Additionally, the changes in plant and insect communities in fragmented habitats can lead to shifts in the diet composition of birds, with potential consequences for their nutritional status and reproductive success (Coddington et al., 2023). These modifications in feeding habits can have cascading effects
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