Reproductive phenology of urban birds: Environmental cues and mechanisms

Studies have linked urbanization with advancement in the timing of seasonal reproduction (reproductive phenology) of birds. This chapter describes how urbanization modifies three environmental factors (light, temperature, and food availability); analyses the role of these modifications in alterations of avian reproductive phenology; and discusses mechanisms that underlie these modifications. The discussions cover the effects of urban lights; mechanisms of action of urban light on reproductive functions; fitness consequences of artificial lighting; impact of urbanization on ambient temperatures; effects of temperature on the reproductive system of urban birds; and the impact of the quantity and the quality of food on seasonal reproduction.