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Lack of nest site limitation in a cavity-nesting bird community

Informally Refereed

Abstract

We examined the relationship between nest site availability and density of secondary cavitynesting birds by blocking cavities in an oak-pine (Quercus spp.-Pinus sp. ) woodland. In 1986 and 1987we blocked 67 and 106 cavities, respectively, on a 37-ha plot. The combined density of secondary cavity-nesting birds did not decline in either year by a greater proportion on the treatment plot than on a control plot, indicating that cavities were not limiting. In habitats where timber management has not substantially reduced availability of natural cavities, managers should not assume nest site limitation; natural nest site availability should be evaluated before implementing nestbox programs designed to increase populations of secondary cavity-nesting birds.

Citation

Waters, Jeffry R.; Noon, Barry R.; Verner, Jared. 1990. Lack of nest site limitation in a cavity-nesting bird community. Journal of Wildlife Management 54(2):239-245
Citations
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/3699