Comparative Microscopic Anatomy And Tensile Strength Of Plumage From Various Color Phases In The Eastern Screech Owl (MEGASCOPS ASIO)

ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Evan Lacy Pannkuk (Creator)
Institution
Appalachian State University (ASU )
Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Advisor
Jeffrey Butts

Abstract: The Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio) is a polymorphic species with rufous and gray tones that exhibits clinal variation. The rufous morph is virtually nonexistent in the northern and westernmost parts of its range. The rufous morph predominates in humid deciduous areas in the center of the eastern screech owl range. While color polymolphism is exhibited widely in birds there is no apparent explanation for the maintenance of clinal variation. Studies have noted differences in oxygen consumption across eastern screech owl color morphs. Differences in feather morphology could lead to difference in thermal insulation and physical resistance.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Pannkuk, E. (2008). Comparative Microscopic Anatomy And Tensile Strength Of Plumage From Various Color Phases In The Eastern Screech Owl (MEGASCOPS ASIO). Unpublished Master’s Thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
Language: English
Date: 2008
Keywords
Eastern Screech Owl (MEGASCOPS ASIO), biology, plumage, anatomy

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