Breeding biology of Pale-edged Flycatcher (Myiarchus cephalotes) in northeastern Ecuador

Biología reproductiva del copetón filipálido (Myiarchus cephalotes) en el noreste de Ecuador

Abstract

We made observations on the reproductive habits of Pale-edged Flycatcher (Myiarchus cephalotes) nesting in nest boxes and under the eaves of human dwellings in northeastern Ecuador. We found a total of six nests, likely built by the same two pairs. Nest construction lasted around 23 days at one nest and was performed only by the female. Most clutches are initiated during the drier months, but there may be some breeding year-round. Clutch size ranged from two to three eggs. Only females incubated and spent the night on the nest. Patterns of attendance during incubation were fairly regular and eggs were covered for 62% of daylight hours. Incubation period was 18 days at two nests. At two nests eggs hatched synchronously and at a third two eggs hatched 24 h prior to the final egg. The nestling period was 18 days. Based on observations of one banded pair in 2008 and 2009, females provide the majority of nestling care (61%). Nestlings were provisioned with a large percentage of adult Lepidoptera and cicadas, with females bringing predominantly Lepidoptera and males favoring cicadas. After leaving the nest, young birds remained with their parents for at least 10 weeks and were still provisioned by Nthem for at least the first nine weeks.