Objective
Research objectives and content
The aim of this project is to study the development of begging behaviour in the black headed gull (Larus ridibundus), with particular emphasis on its consequences for resource allocation, and to integrate these results into evolutionary models of signalling. The research will be integrated in --and profit from-- an ongoing research project on behavioural ontogeny in this species at the University of Groningen (Dr. Groothuis). In the field we will study the effect of food deprivation on begging intensity, parental provisioning and resource allocation. To investigate the possible role of sibling rivalry in parent-offspring communication, we will manipulate the intensity of scramble competition using testosterone injections, which increase fighting and diminish begging intensity. We will measure the metabolic cost associated with chick begging and parental provisioning with doubly-labelled water. In the laboratory we will measure the effect of begging on chick growth and the plasticity of communication strategies, as well as the possibility of modifying them by learning, using experimental-psychology techniques. The black-headed gull constitutes an ideal species for this study because chicks are abundant, are easily reared in captivity and their extended nestling period facilitates the realisation of learning experiments, with prolonged training and testing phases.
I will develop dynamic game-theoretical models of parent-offspring communication incorporating the results of the ontogenetical study and the effects of sibling aggression.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The project encompasses theoretical work, experimental field work and lab studies in close collaboration with renowned experts in all fields, aiming at the integration of my multi-disciplinary experience and qualities and the rapprochement of experimental and theoretical biology.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Coordinator
9751 AA Haren
Netherlands
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.