| Abstract: | The breeding biology and management of three wild-caught adult Common trumpeters (one male and two females) was documented at the Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, Seattle, from April, 1984 to August, 1986. A total of 27 eggs were laid, and eight young survived to fledging. Both sexes exhibited crane-like dances during courtship, but the male appeared to perform these behaviors more frequently and with greater intensity than the females. Courtship feeding and allo-preening also occurred. Nests consisted of simple scrapes on the ground, but the birds had no opportunity to rest in trees or other elevated sites. Clutches contained two or three eggs, and the incubation period was aproximately 28 days. Although the breeding pair was generally aggressive toward the second female, all three adults participated in incubation and in caring for the young. Parental behavior consisted of brooding, allopreening, and feeding. The male preened and fed one chick significantly more often than either of the females. Trumpeter chicks were highly precocial, but grew relatively slowly, reaching 50% of adult weight by 45 to 50 days of age. Trumpeters are difficult to maintain and breed in captivity and appear to be susceptible to mycotic diseases, such as aspergillosis. Changes in the social composition of captive groups may result in improved breeding. |
