Ecology African_oystercatcher

1 ecology

1.1 feeding
1.2 breeding
1.3 longevity , mortality

ecology
feeding

african oystercatchers predominantly feed on molluscs such mussels , limpets, although known feed on polychaetes, insects , potentially fish. adapted pry open mussels , loosen limpets off rocks have been recorded picking through sand locate other food items.

breeding

the nest bare scrape on pebbles, sand or shingle within 30 metres (98 ft) of high-water mark. on rock ledges there may rim of shells keep eggs in place. female lays 2 eggs, there may 1 or three, incubated both adults. incubation period varies between 27 , 39 days , young take further 38 or days fledge. breeding success greater on offshore islands there few predators , less disturbance mainland sites.

the eggs average 65 mm (2.6 in) long, ranging 45 73 mm (1.8 2.9 in), , have breadth of 41 mm (1.6 in), ranging 34 45 cm (13 18 in).

longevity , mortality

the lifespan of african oystercatcher 35 years, of known pair 25 years. although adults predated mainland egg , chick fatalities due disturbance people, off-road vehicles, dog attacks , predation kelp gull (larus dominicanus) , other avian preditors. off shore pairs experience similar avian predation although chicks perish due starvation.