Meeting Abstract
In the context of global change the possible loss of biodiversity has been identified as a major concern. Biodiversity could be seriously threatened as a direct consequence of changes in food availability, changing thermal conditions and habitat loss and fragmentation. Considering the magnitude of global change, the understanding of the mechanisms involved in coping with a changing environment is urgent. We will explore the hypothesis that species and individuals experiencing highly variable environments are more probable to develop a wider range of responses to handle the different and unpredictable conditions imposed by global change. The response to the challenges imposed by unpredictable perturbations is ultimately linked to cognitive abilities allowing problem solving, and the maximization of energy intake.
In this context, hummingbirds offer a particularly compelling group in which to examine the functional and mechanistic link between behavioral and energetic strategies in individuals experiencing different degrees of social and environmental heterogeneity.
