Breeding biology of porphyriops melanops bogotensis (Gruiformes, rallidae) an endemic and endangered subspecies from the northern andes

Abstract

The Rallidae is a widely distributed family in the planet, with a high proportion of endangered species and limited information on reproductive biology. Porphyriops melanops bogotensis is an endangered and isolated endemic Colombian subspecies and no detailed information about its breeding biology and nestling development. We describe the breeding biology of P. m. bogotensis and the development of the nestlings, thus providing novel information that may help its conservation. The study was done in the Bogotá area highland plateau between 2016 and 2019. We surveyed the area weekly in search of nests for description and monitoring. We artificially incubated fourteen eggs; these chicks were raised in captivity until completely developed while measuring growth and taking notes on color changes. The birds nested all year long; clutch size varied between three and six eggs, with an incubation period of 18-20 days. The rails reached their definite size by day 55, with significant differences between sexes. The beak acquired the final color by day 75, while adult eye and plumage color were reached between 150 and 165 days after hatching. In general terms reproductive behavior and development of P. m. bogotensis are like what is known for other members of the Rallidae. The detailed description of coloration change of the subspecies during its development allows precise age determination of individuals in the wild.