Living fast, dying young: Anthropogenic habitat modification influences
the fitness and life history traits of a cooperative breeder
Abstract
Anthropogenic habitat modification is especially detrimental to social
species. Apart from direct fitness effects, it can destroy group
structure and affect social interactions crucial for reproduction and
survival. Here, we assessed the impact of habitat modification on the
fitness and life history traits of a cooperative breeder, the Arabian
babbler (Argya squamiceps). We collected spatial, reproductive, and
social data on 572 individuals belonging to 21 social groups over six
years and combined it with remote sensing to characterize group
territories. Groups in modified habitats bred more and had greater
productivity during dry years. Males living in modified habitats
dispersed and acquired dominance at a younger age, showing a faster pace
of life. However, group performance and total fitness were higher in
natural habitats during average years. Habitat modification indirectly
affected fitness by altering social structure, whereby younger males who
lacked experience became dominant, leading to reduced nesting success.