Abstract
Migratory animals experiencing substantial change in diet and habitat
across the annual cycle may have corresponding shifts in host-associated
microbial diversity. Using automated telemetry and radio tags to
recapture birds, we examined gut microbiome structure in the same
population and often same individuals of Kirtland’s Warblers (Setophaga
kirtlandii) on their wintering grounds in The Bahamas and breeding
territories in Michigan, USA. The community composition of gut
microbiota varied significantly between locations with microbial
diversity decreasing from The Bahamas to Michigan. We identified a
species-specific core microbial profile that spans multiple time periods
and environments. Our research highlights, at the individual and
population level, that the avian gut microbiome is dynamic over time and
is significantly impacted by changing environments associated with
migration. These results support the need for full annual cycle
monitoring of migratory bird microbiota to improve understanding of
seasonal host movement ecologies and response to recurrent physiological
stressors.