Bird populations in central Europe may respond to increased mean temperatures due to climate change in several ways. Among the options you've provided, the most likely responses are:
-
Move their range north: Many bird species may shift their breeding ranges northward as temperatures rise, seeking more suitable habitats. Warmer temperatures can lead to changes in the availability of food and suitable nesting sites, prompting birds to migrate to cooler regions.
-
Change their diet: Alterations in the climate can affect the availability of food sources, prompting birds to adapt and change their diets based on what is accessible in their altered environment.
The other options, while possible, may not be as universally applicable:
-
Move their range south: This is less likely as temperatures rise; birds typically seek cooler areas, which would be northward or at higher elevations.
-
Lay more eggs: The number of eggs laid can be influenced by various factors, including food availability and environmental conditions, but it is not a direct or guaranteed response to increased temperatures.
Thus, the most likely response would be for bird populations to move their range north as the climate warms.