Final answer:
The differences between native and non-native game birds include habitat preferences, mating behaviors, and geographic origin. Native species are well adapted to their local environments, whereas non-native species often face competition for resources and may either die off or move elsewhere. Human activities have significantly influenced the spread of non-native species, impacting native species and ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
The differences between native and non-native game birds encompass a range of attributes, including A) Habitat preferences, B) Mating behaviors, and C) Geographic origin. Native game birds have evolved to fit into their ecosystems, showing specific adaptations to the local environment, resources, and seasonal patterns. Non-native species, on the other hand, have been introduced to ecosystems they did not originate from, often due to human activities such as the pet trade and habitat modifications.
Native species typically have mating behaviors and life cycles that are well-synced with their local environment, giving them an advantage in terms of survival and reproduction. Furthermore, they have specific habitat preferences that are conducive to their needs, be it for nesting, feeding, or evading predators. These preferences have often developed over long periods through natural selection.
In contrast, non-native species often struggle to find appropriate habitats and may not align with the local ecosystem's cycle, leading to competition with native species for resources. Owing to these differences, the competing species with overlapping needs for food and space may not coexist easily, and the less adapted one may die off or be forced to migrate. This competition can lead to biodiversity loss or ecosystem alterations. Biogeography and anthropogenic factors also play crucial roles in influencing the presence of both native and non-native species in an area. Human activities have contributed to the spread of non-native species worldwide, which can lead to genetic introgression—a mixing of genetic material that can affect the genetic pool of native species.