Joaniquet Serra, Alba (2026) Feeding preferences of hummingbirds in green urban spaces in Xalapa, Mexico. Master's Research Project 1, Ecology and Evolution.
|
Text
WMEV901-402026Alba-Joaniquet-Serra.pdf Download (23MB) | Preview |
Abstract
Urbanisation is rapidly transforming natural landscapes, yet cities can still support important ecological interactions when resources are available. This study examined plant-hummingbird interactions in urban gardens and green spaces in Xalapa, Mexico, evaluating whether hummingbirds prefer native or exotic plants and what ecological factors shape these interactions. Over five weeks in June 2025, volunteers recorded hummingbird visits, behaviours, and flowering plant species across multiple sites. Interaction patterns were analysed using visitation data, mixed-effects models, and network analyses. Results showed no significant preference for native over exotic plants once spatial variation, species identity, and resource availability were considered. Instead, interactions were mainly driven by plant community composition and floral resource availability. While native plants were visited more frequently overall, several exotic species with bird-adapted traits also substantially contributed to the network. These findings highlight the importance of diverse urban plant communities. Native plants with abundant, morphologically suitable flowers are especially valuable, while some exotic species can complement resource availability. Enhancing floral diversity and continuity in cities can help sustain plant-pollinator interactions and support urban biodiversity.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master's Research Project 1) |
|---|---|
| Supervisor name: | Komdeur, J. and Contreras Osorio, R. |
| Degree programme: | Ecology and Evolution |
| Thesis type: | Master's Research Project 1 |
| Language: | English |
| Date Deposited: | 27 Mar 2026 10:46 |
| Last Modified: | 27 Mar 2026 10:46 |
| URI: | https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/37272 |
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |