What dietary component likely increases before southward migration for fat reserves?
Answer
Readily available sugars and carbohydrates from fruit
While the core diet is insect-based year-round, the Western Kingbird implements a tactical dietary adjustment as the breeding season concludes and the southward migration approaches. To build the necessary fat reserves required for the long journey to wintering grounds in Mexico, Central America, and Florida, the bird increases its intake of plant matter. This involves a greater consumption of seasonally available energy-rich resources like fruits and berries, which provide readily available sugars and carbohydrates that can be efficiently converted into stored fat reserves, supplementing the energy derived from late-season insects.
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