Fraser Darling effect

views updated May 29 2018

Fraser Darling effect Acceleration and synchronization of the breeding cycle that results from the visual and auditory stimulation experienced by individual members of large breeding colonies of birds. It tends to shorten the breeding season and to present predators with a sudden flush of eggs and young, thus increasing the likelihood that any given pair of adults will breed successfully. The effect is named after Sir Frank FraserDarling, who proposed its existence in 1938.

Fraser Darling effect

views updated May 14 2018

Fraser Darling effect Acceleration and synchronization of the breeding cycle that results from the visual and auditory stimulation experienced by individual members of large breeding colonies of birds. It tends to shorten the breeding season and to present predators with a sudden flush of eggs and young, thus increasing the likelihood that any given pair of adults will breed successfully. The effect is named after Sir Frank Fraser Darling, who proposed its existence in 1938.