Long-term reproductive success of Australasian gannets (Morus serrator)

Life history theory predicts that individuals make trade-offs between investment in current reproduction, future reproductive potential and success in order to maximise lifetime reproductive success (LRS). Factors that may influence LRS in seabirds include delayed maturity, small clutches, high adults survivorship and long life spans. Studies have shown that reproductive success of seabirds increases with age and experience. Australasian gannets are long-lived seabirds that typically commence breeding at five or six years of age. A small colony of gannets was monitored over 12 years. This study aimed to identify patterns of long-term individual breeding biology. Results indicate that nest site, pair bond duration, age and breeding experience are all important factors in reproductive success. Relationships were found between breeding success and several variables including breeding experience, pair bond duration and nest site quality. Identifying and understanding the factors that contribute to individuals’ reproductive success is of critical importance for future conservation and management of seabird species.