Female biometrical characteristics and egg dimensions of the Starling (Sturnus vulgaris L.) in Croatia

Female biometrical characteristics play an important role in the breeding and contribute to breeding success. The size and shape of Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) eggs in relation to female characteristics were examined. The material was collected in northwestern Croatia (Mokrice region) in 2007. Only first clutches were analysed. Egg length averaged 29.7 mm, egg breadth - 21.2 mm, egg volume - 6810 mm[^3] and egg shape index - 1.41. The inter-clutch CV amounted 6% for length, 3% for breadth, 10% for volume and 6% for egg shape index. The mean female body mass was equal to 81.8 g, wing length - 128.6 mm and female condition - 0.64. No significant correlation was found between the female biometrical parameters like body mass, wing length, female condition and egg dimensions (like egg length, egg breadth, egg volume) or egg shape. Egg length was marginally correlated with egg breadth. Female body mass was significantly correlated with wing length.