Changes in latitude, changes in attitude: a perspective on ecophysiological studies of Australian birds

Abstract

Ecophysiological studies of Australian native birds are relatively rare and have tended to focus on adaptations of birds to extreme environments. Much of this research over the last century has followed ornithological trends originating overseas, with the Australian avifauna being examined in the context of adaptations identified in Northern Hemisphere birds. This approach is clearly seen by the earlier research examining arid adaptations in Australian birds. These studies have largely supported existing theory, with recognition that many birds are preadapted for arid environments. Ironically, one of the unusual features repeatedly mentioned about certain old–endemic Australian birds, namely flexible breeding, was identified early in the past century, but received scant attention from reproductive biologists. Given the likely Gondwanan origin of Passeriformes and the wide range of habitats currently occupied by Australian birds, ecophysiological studies of Australian avifauna have tremendous potential to reveal how animal–environment interactions have shaped the range of breeding and physiological characteristics seen in passerines worldwide. As importantly, such studies are urgently needed to understand the ecological requirements of extant species with a view to better manage anthropogenic encroachment.