Thermogenesis in newly hatched eider (Somateria mollissima) and Long-tailed duck (Clangula hyemalis) ducklings and barnacle goose (Granta leucopsis) goslings

Abstract

Oxygen consumption and body temperature were recorded in eider and Long-tailed ducklings and in barnacle goslings less than 4 days old. In some ducklings organ temperatures during cold exposure and oxydative capacity of various organs were also measured. Both ducklings and goslings were perfectly homeothermic down to - 10°C ambient temperature. Eider hatchlings had a lower critical temperature of 23°C. Long-tailed of 29°C, and barnacle goslings of 21°C. During cold stress the area below the spine was slightly warmer than the thigh and liver. The high oxydative capacities of these organs compared to yolk, kidney, and gut indicate that the homeothermy in newly hatched ducklings and goslings depends on a combination of good insulation and a high oxydative capacity of leg muscles and liver.