Range‐wide populations of a long‐distance migratory songbird converge during stopover in the tropics

Geographic convergence during migration influences the extent to which animal populations may experience carry‐over effects across periods of the annual cycle. When most individuals of a population share geographic areas during a given priod, carry‐over effects are likely stronger than when individuals occupy multiple areas. We used genetic data and stable isotope (δ2H) measurements from feathers and claws to describe the likely breeding and wintering geographic origins of a long‐distance migratory songbird (Gray‐cheeked Thrush, Catharus minimus) moving through northern Colombia in spring and fall migration. Furthermore, we used these data coupled with regional occupancy surveys to assess whether individuals from various breeding populations converge during migration and evaluated whether geographic origin, age, or sex affected stopover strategies. We found that range‐wide breeding populations of Gray‐cheeked Thrush converged in northern Colombia in an area spanning <1% of the breeding range, especially during a prolonged spring stopover in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Breeding (but not winter) origin, sex, and age influenced arrival date and body condition upon arrival at stopover sites where populations converged. Birds from more northerly breeding latitudes, males and adults generally arrived earlier and in lower body condition than those with more southerly breeding origins, females, and juveniles. Our work and other studies suggest that areas in northern Colombia may function as ecological bottlenecks for Gray‐cheeked Thrush because they concentrate individuals from across the breeding range, provide critical resources, and impose constraints during migration. Future studies quantifying the effects of high‐convergence areas on fitness and survival of individuals and their demographic consequences are required to assess their roles as ecological bottlenecks. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article