RT info:eu-repo/semantics/article
T1 Habitat use and space preferences of Eurasian Bullfinches (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) in northwestern Iberia throughout the year
A1 Hernández Lázaro, Ángel
K1 Habitat use
K1 Perch height
K1 Pyrrhula pyrrhula iberiae
K1 Seasonal variation
K1 Substrate selection
K1 Water bathing
K1 2401.20 Ornitología
K1 2401.02 Comportamiento Animal
AB Background: For all vertebrates in general, a concerted effort to move beyond single season research is vital toimprove our understanding of species ecology. Knowledge of habitat use and selection by Eurasian Bullfinches(Pyrrhula pyrrhula) is limited with regard to the non-breeding season. To date, research on the habitat of the Iberiansubspecies iberiae consists of very general descriptions. In relation to space use, only broad features are available forthe entire distribution range of Eurasian Bullfinches, including Iberia.Methods: In this study, seasonal preferences regarding habitat and space in a population of Eurasian Bullfinches areexamined for the first time in the Iberian Peninsula, through direct observation during a six-year period. The essentialhabitat components, substrate selection and perch height were assessed.Results: Hedgerows were the key essential habitat component for bullfinches during all seasons. Nevertheless, smallpoplar plantations became increasingly important from winter to summer-autumn. Bullfinches perched mostly inshrubs/trees throughout the year, but there were significant seasonal changes in substrate use, ground and herbsbeing of considerable importance during spring-summer. Throughout the year, over half of the records correspondedto feeding, reaching almost 90% in winter. Generally, bullfinches perched noticeably lower while feeding. Malebullfinches perched markedly higher than females, notably singing males in spring-summer. Juveniles perched at aheight not much lower than that of males. In all seasons, males tended to feed at greater heights than females. Bullfinchesof different ages and sexes were seen bathing in all seasons except winter.Conclusions: Hedgerow habitat in general appeared to be valuable for bullfinches throughout the year. In summerand autumn, they selected sites with an abundance of food and shade, as well as shelter, a much-neededrequirement for fledglings and moulting individuals. There was usually a close link between the most used and mostconsumed plant species in each season. Males appeared to assume a more important role in vigilance, and often theyaccompanied dependent young in June and July. Bullfinch conservation strategies should consider seasonal demandfor habitat and space.
PB BMC
SN 2053-7166
YR 2021
FD 2021
LK https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/64843
UL https://uvadoc.uva.es/handle/10324/64843
LA eng
NO Avian Research, 2021, vol. 12, art. 8
NO Producción Científica
DS UVaDOC
RD 13-jun-2024