Geographic variation in basal thermogenesis in little buntings: Relationship to cellular thermogenesis and thyroid hormone concentrations

Acclimatization to different ambient conditions is an essential prerequisite for survival of small passerine birds. Long-distance migration and winter acclimatization induce similar physiological and biochemical adjustments in passerines. To understand metabolic adaptations, the resting metabolic rate (RMR), the thermogenic properties of mitochondria in liver and muscle, and the activity of thyroid hormones were examined in field-captured little buntings (Emberiza pusilla) between Southeastern (Wenzhou) and Northeastern (Qiqihar) China from March to May in 2008 during their migration. Twelve birds were trapped from March to April in Wenzhou region, Zhejiang Province (27°29′N, 120°51′E) and eleven birds originated from April to May in Qiqihar region, Heilongjiang Province (47°29′N, 124°02′E). We found that RMRs of little buntings were significantly higher in Qiqihar than in Wenzhou. Consistently, mitochondrial state-4 respiration capacities and cytochrome c oxidase activities (COX) in liver and muscle, and circulating levels of plasma triiodothyronine (T3) of little buntings were also significantly higher in Qiqihar than in Wenzhou. Variation in metabolic biochemical markers of liver and muscle, such as state-4 respiration and COX, and variation in thyroid hormone levels were correlated with variation in RMR. There was also a positive relationship between T3 and metabolic biochemical markers. Little buntings mainly coped with a cold environment by enhancing thermogenic capacities through enhanced respiratory enzyme activities and plasma T3. These results support the view that the primary means by which small birds meet energetic challenges of cold conditions is through metabolic adjustments.