Respiratory Water Loss in Some Birds of Southwestern United States

Abstract

Respiratory water loss at moderate temps. was measured in 56 individuals of 13 subspp. of 12 spp. of birds which either seasonally or permanently inhabit desert or arid regions. It was found that there is an inverse relationship between body weight and water loss. Metabolic water produced is less than respiratory water lost, with the difference between the two being greatest in the smaller birds. The effects of respiratory water loss on distr. are discussed.