Contents of Acta Ornithologica Vol. 40, No 1, Summer 2005

 

Bai M.-L., Wichmann F., Mühlenberg M. 2005. Nest-site characteristics of hole-nesting birds in a primeval boreal forest of Mongolia. Acta Ornithol. 40: 1–14.

Centre for Nature Conservation, Göttingen University, Von-Siebold Str. 2, 37075 Göttingen, Germany, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Nest sites of nine common hole-nesting bird species were studied in the West Khentey Mountains, NE Mongolia. Among three excavators, the Great Spotted Woodpecker used more aspens, larger trees, and more living or intact dead trees than the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker or the Willow Tit. Among non-excavators, the Nuthatch used mainly old holes of the Great Spotted Woodpecker, and the Red-throated Flycatcher frequently used those of the Willow Tit. Thus, the nest site characters of these two species resembled those of the original excavators, and their nests were placed higher than those of other non-excavators. The Coal Tit and the Great Tit used mostly branch holes in living trees. With respect to nest site use, the Daurian Redstart behaved as a generalist while the Common Treecreeper specialized in long slits. Among the excavators, nest site selection may be governed by body size, territory size and their different abilities of excavation. The non-excavators were best differentiated by their preferred hole type, and their tree use and nest site characters were mainly a consequence of the location of such holes. Interspecific competition did not appear to be important in the nest site use of hole-nesting birds in the study area.

Key words: boreal primeval forest, hole-nesting birds, cavity nesters, nest-site selection

 

Orłowski G¹., Siembieda J². 2005. Skeletal injuries of passerines caused by collisions with cars. Acta Ornithol. 40: 15–19.

¹Department of Agricultural Bases for Environmental Management, Agricultural University of Wrocław, pl. Grunwaldzki 24, 50–363 Wrocław, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Department and Clinic of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Wrocław, pl. Grunwaldzki 51, 50–366 Wrocław, Poland

Abstract. Radiographic examination of 36 birds (18 species) killed on roads revealed bone injuries in 17 (47%) cases. There were 30 different kinds of injuries to the skeletal system. In 29 cases these fractures concerned the long bones of the wings (n = 15) and the lower extremities (n = 14). One bird had a dislocated spinal column. Wing fractures affected the humerus (n = 6), radius (n = 6) and ulna (n = 3), while leg fractures of legs affected the femur (n = 5), tibiotarsus (n = 8) and tarsometatarsus (n = 1). No relationship was found between the body weight and the location and number of bone injuries. In our opinion, the nature and type of skeletal injuries suggest that they were not the direct cause of death.

Key words: road-kills, small passerines, avian injuries, bone fractures, radiological analysis

 

Polak M. 2005. Temporal pattern of vocal activity of the Water Rail Rallus aquaticus and the Little Crake Porzana parva in the breeding season. Acta Ornithol. 40: 21–26.

Department of Nature Conservation, Institute of Biology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19, 20–033 Lublin, Poland, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. In the Water Rail the patterns of the two main types of vocalization were quite different: the announcement call was uttered throughout the breeding season with two peaks, one in April and the other in early June, but the courtship call occurred only in the pre-laying period. The vocalization period of the Little Crake is short but intensive, peaking before the start of incubation. In general, Water Rails produced more vocalizations in the evening than in the morning. The vocal activity of the Little Crake peaked at dawn. In both species a peak in vocal output occurred shortly before sunrise and before sunset.

Key words: Water Rail, Rallus aquaticus, Little Crake, Porzana parva, vocal activity

 

Rutkowski R. ¹, Niewęgłowski H. ², Dziedzic R. ³, Kmieć M. ⁴, Goździewski J. ⁵ 2005. Genetic variability of Polish population of the Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus. Acta Ornithol. 40: 27–34.

¹Museum and Institute of Zoology Polish Academy of Sciences, Wilcza 64, 00–679 Warsaw, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Olsztyn, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

³Agricultural University of Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20–950 Lublin, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

⁴Forest District Ruszów SF NVH, Zgorzelecka 1, 59–930 Ruszów, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

⁵Polish Hunting Association, 1 Maja 25, 16–400 Suwałki, POLAND

Abstract. The Capercaillie is one of the most seriously endangered bird species in Poland. It currently numbers around 650 individuals that live in four isolated populations (Lower Silesian Forest, Janów Lubelski Forest, Carpathians, Augustów Forest). This study investigated genetic variability based on the polymorphism of six microsatellite loci in the surviving Polish populations of the Capercaillie and compares the results with the analogous variability in two large, contiguous populations in Russia. The following parameters were estimated: mean number of alleles per locus, allelic richness, mean effective number of alleles per locus, heterozygosity in each of the populations investigated. Differentiation between pairs of populations was assessed using F_ST. The results show that despite some inevitable reduction in genetic variability, most of the Polish populations retained a substantial level of microsatellite polymorphism. Only in the population from Janów Lubelski Forest was there a significant reduction in variability, probably due to long isolation and the recent decline. That this population has long been isolated was also confirmed by the pronounced genetic differentiation from the other Polish populations. The Carpathian population of the Capercaillie was found to be genetically structured, and in the Lower Silesian Forest population heterozygosity was lower, possibly as a result of the lek mating system and also the dramatic reduction in numbers.

Key words: Capercaillie, Tetrao urogallus, genetic variability, population structure, microsatellites

 

Skórka P.¹, Wójcik J. D.² 2005. Population dynamics and social behavior of Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus during winter. Acta Ornithol. 41: 35–42.

¹Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30–387 Kraków, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sławkowska 17, 30–016 Kraków, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Density and behavior of the Mistle Thrush occurring in the Niepołomice Forest (southern Poland) and adjacent open areas were studied during the winters of 1996/1997, 1998/1999 and 2000/2001 (December–February). Mistle Thrush densities differed significantly between winters. Abundance of thrushes decreased with winter progression. Bird density and mistletoe clump density were positively correlated. Birds held territories or grouped in flocks. In the forest, flocks were observed only during the winter 1996/1997 when the largest density of birds was noted. Flock size decreased throughout winter, but, simultaneously, the number of territorial birds was stable. It suggests that at the end of the winter 1996/1997 some birds from flocks started to hold territories. Bird flocks were observed also in open areas and they preferred to feed in pastures. In the forest, every individual territory consisted of several clumps of mistletoe on a few trees standing close together. Birds defended mistletoe clumps against conspecifics and also other species (Pyrrhula pyrrhula, Turdus merula, Dendrocopos major). Aggressive encounter rate was positively correlated with bird density and negatively with winter progression (winter progression was correlated negatively with berry supply), but surprisingly was not correlated with mistletoe clump density and temperature. It is possible that during years with high berry supply, the density of birds may be so large, that defending fruits against many neighbors may be too costly and less profitable than feeding in flocks.

Key words: Mistle Thrush, Turdus viscivorus, aggressive behavior, flocking behavior, fruit defense, mistletoe, Niepołomice Forest

 

Volodin I. A.^1,2, Volodina E. V.², Klenova A. V.¹, Filatova O. A.¹ 2005. Individual and sexual differences in calls of the monomorphic White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata. Acta Ornithol. 43–52.

¹Department of Vertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119899, Russia, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Scientific Research Department, Moscow Zoo, 123242, Russia, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The White-faced Whistling Duck is a waterfowl species lacking any differences in ornamentation, coloration, size or behavior between the sexes. For distant communication, this species uses loud whistles. We analyzed 12 spectral parameters of 344 whistles from 23 captive adult ducks (14 males and 9 females). Discriminant analysis showed 94% correct assignment to an individual (N = 279 calls from 14 birds; 15–22 calls per bird). Separately for 8 males (162 calls) and for 6 females (117 calls), discriminant analysis showed 99% and 93% correct assignment to individuals respectively. Discriminant analysis for sex (N = 86; 3 calls from each of 14 males and 5 calls from each of 9 females) showed 100% correct assignment. Intersexual differences were governed by frequency parameters, the values of which were significantly higher in females than in males. Cluster analysis showed that differences between sexes were expressed significantly more strongly than the individual differences. The fact that the “acoustical keys” differed as regards the identification of individual birds or their sex may significantly enhance the reliability of acoustical recognition systems in the White-faced Whistling Duck. The data are discussed in the context of the biology of the White-faced Whistling Duck and significant intersexual differences in syringial and tracheal anatomy, which may be responsible for the sharp distinctions between the sexes in the calls of this species.

Key words: White-faced Whistling Duck, Dendrocygna viduata, vocalization, individual differences, sexual differences

 

Wesołowski T.¹, Czeszczewik D.², Rowiński P.³ 2005. Effects of forest management on Three-toed Woodpecker Picoides tridactylus distribution in the Białowieża Forest (NE Poland): conservation implications. Acta Ornithol. 40: 53–60.

¹Department of Avian Ecology, Wrocław University, Sienkiewicza 21, 50–335 Wrocław, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Department of Zoology, University of Podlasie, Prusa 12, 08–110 Siedlce, Poland

³Department of Forest Protection and Ecology, Agricultural University, Nowoursynowska 159, 02–776 Warszawa, Poland

Abstract. Distribution of Three-toed Woodpeckers and that of dead wood were mapped in two fragments of the Białowieża National Park (BNP) differing in their management history — primeval (old-growth stands of natural origin, no human intervention) and logged (as the former but subject to 80 years of commercial forestry). Data were collected during the breeding seasons 1999–2001. In the end of April 2000, the whole BNP was systematically searched; playbacks of drumming were used to enhance detection of birds. Presence/absence of Three-toed Woodpeckers and of dead wood (standing and downed Norway spruces and snags of other trees) were recorded within each forest sub-compartments (ca. 28 ha). Data from censuses done in smaller plots in 1975–1999 showed that in the primeval forest the woodpeckers bred twice more frequently in swampy and coniferous forests than in the oak-hornbeam habitat. These preferred habitat types covered larger areas in the logged fragment than in the primeval part (66% vs. 41%). Yet despite this, Three-toed Woodpeckers were recorded there over twice less frequently (14% of 176 sub-compartments) than in the primeval (36% of 164 sub-compartments) part. These differences followed sharp contrasts in the dead wood availability; all but one sub-compartments in the primeval fragment contained some form of dead wood, whereas dead spruces were missing in almost 30% of sub-compartments in the logged part. This was the effect of continuous ”sanitary” logging, purposeful removal of dying and dead spruces from the Forest. To restore Three-toed Woodpecker habitats it is necessary to ban removal of dead spruces in the managed part of BNP. However, the BNP area is too small, to assure the long-term survival of the Białowieża Forest population. To achieve this, it is necessary to resign from removal of dying and dead spruces in the whole Polish part of the Białowieża Forest (600 km²). This would create breeding habitat for a maximum 260–320 pairs.

Key words: Three-toed Woodpecker, Picoides tridactylus, conservation of endangered species, primeval forest, dead wood, snags

 

Wysocki D. 2005. Nest site selection in the urban population of Blackbirds Turdus merula in Szczecin (NW Poland). Acta Ornithol. 40: 61–69.

Department of Vertebrate Anatomy and Zoology, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13, 71–412, Szczecin, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Nest site selection in the Blackbird was investigated in two urban parks in Szczecin from 1997 to 2003. The age structure of the tree stands, the area of shrub coverage and the number of predators (apart from squirrels) were similar in both parks. 95% of the nests discovered at the beginning of the breeding season were found again in June and July. Any increase in the heights of the nest sites in successive periods of the breeding season and any changes in the type of vegetation selected for nest construction were recorded. In April, Blackbirds most often used coniferous trees. At the start of the season, when deciduous plants began sprouting leaves, Blackbirds preferred those whose leaves appeared earlier. But later in the season, no difference was found between the numbers of nests in trees developing their crowns earlier or later. The shorter period of nest use in conifers is probably due to their selective penetration by corvids. The selective penetration of such trees by predators probably reduces the frequency of nest building in them between the first (pentads 1–3) and second (pentads 4–6) period of the breeding season, despite the fact that they provide better concealment for nests. The selection of nest sites by the Blackbirds in this study confirms both the predator-pressure and the nest-concealment hypotheses.

Key words: Blackbirds, Turdus merula, nest site selection, urban population, predation

 

Agostini N.¹, Premuda G.¹, Mellone U.¹, Panuccio M.¹, Logozzo D.², Bassi E.³, Cocchi L.⁴ 2005. Impact of wind and geography on orientation behaviour of adult Honey Buzzards Pernis apivorus during migration over water. Acta Ornithol. 40: 71–74.

¹MEDRAPTORS (Mediterranean Raptor Migration Network), Via Mario Fioretti 18, 00152 Roma, Italy, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Via Carlo Alberto 4, 89046 Marina di Gioiosa Jonica, Italy

³Via Provinciale 69, 24022 Alzano Lombardo (BG), Italy

⁴Via Ruffini 12, 41010 Piumazzo (MO), Italy

Abstract. During autumn migration across the Central Mediterranean, adult Honey Buzzards cross the sea at its narrowest point, between western Sicily (southern Italy) and the Cap Bon peninsula (Tunisia). This study investigated the influence of prevailing winds and geography on the orientation behaviour of migrants during this sea crossing from observations over two islands, one on the northern side, the other on the southern side of the Channel of Sicily. The flock was taken as the sampling unit. Honey Buzzards reached the island of Marettimo, approx. 35 km off western Sicily and 130 km NE of the Cap Bon peninsula, regardless of the direction of the prevailing winds (NW and S). By contrast, Honey Buzzards passed via Pantelleria, about 110 km SW of western Sicily and 70 km ESE of the Cap Bon peninsula, mostly during NW winds. Birds reached Pantelleria from the NE and left the island flying WNW. They applied true navigational abilities in choosing the shorter crossing between Pantelleria and Tunisia and showing a curvilinear migration. Our results agree in part with the “optimal use of wind” hypothesis. In particular, wind, geography and navigational abilities seem to interact to shape the orientation behaviour of migrating Honey Buzzards, perhaps to minimize the risks of non-stop powered flight over the water.

Key words: Honey Buzzard, Pernis apivorus, migration, water crossing, orientation, geography, wind, navigation

 

Goszczyński J.¹, Gryz J.² Krauze D.² 2005. Fluctuations of a Common Buzzard Buteo buteo population in Central Poland. Acta Ornithol. 40: 75–78.

¹Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wilcza 64, 00–679 Warsaw, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Department of Forest Protection and Ecology, Agricultural University of Warsaw, Nowoursynowska 159, 02–776 Warsaw, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Studies carried out in the vicinity of Rogów in central Poland showed a 47% rise in the population density of the Common Buzzard, inasmuch as the average number of breeding pairs in the study area of 105 km² increased from 18.2 in the years 1982–1991 to 26.7 in the years 2001–2003. Furthermore, an upward trend was observed for each separately investigated forest complex. Possible mechanisms underpinning this increase in density are discussed.

Key words: Common Buzzard, Buteo buteo, population trends, density

 

Montalti D.¹, Ferman L. M.¹, Camperi A. R.¹, Soave G. E.¹, Arambarri A. M.², Darrieu C. A.¹ 2005. Winter diet of Great Pampa-finches Embernagra platensis in Guaminí Lagoon, Argentina. Acta Ornithol. 40: 79–82.

¹Department of Ornithology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Museum, Paseo del Bosque, B1900FWA-La Plata, Argentina, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Department of Vegetal Morphology, Faculty of Agrarian and Forestry Sciences, National University of La Plata, Av. 60 y 119, 1900-La Plata, Argentina

Abstract. The diet of the Great Pampa-finch includes seeds rather than insects. Our objective was to study its diet during the winter season and, whenever possible, to record differences between the sexes in diet patterns. This species was studied at Guaminí Lagoon, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. The stomach content of 38 adult birds was investigated. The analysis shows that the food eaten by E. platensis consisted of seeds (60%) (Chenopodiaceae, Asteraceae, Ciperaceae and Poaceae) and insects (39%) (Bellostomatidae, Dytiscidae, Curculionidae, Coccinelidae, Formicidae and Apidae). Males ate more insects and, overall, more items than females. These, in turn, consumed a greater amount of plants. Niche breadth values were 2.9 for males and 3.1 for females. The seeds encountered were those of plant species typically associated with the pampas.

Key words: Great Pampa-finch, Embernagra platensis, diet, differences between sexes, Argentina

 

Wuczyński A. 2005. The turnover of White Storks Ciconia ciconia on nests during spring migration. Acta Ornithol. 40: 83–95.

Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lower-Silesian Field Station, Podwale 75, 50–449 Wrocław, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. It is widely accepted that the first White Storks to arrive at a nest remain there to breed. In contrast to this belief, the paper describes the replacement of at least three males and at least one female at one nest in SW Poland during the spring of 1994. The first pair occupied the nest for 5–8 days, the second pair for one day, and probably only the third pair remained at the nest to actually breed. Additional data on arrival patterns show that such replacements of non-breeding storks may occur much more frequently than was previously thought, especially in areas of intense migration. Consequently, the most common phenological observations (e.g. the arrival dates of the first and second White Storks) are not really useful for defining the timing of breeding. It is suggested that the beginning of nest occupancy be defined by the beginning of the permanent stay of the second partner, and not just by the date of the birds’ first appearance.

Key words: White Stork, Ciconia ciconia, birds, methods, migration, phenology

Antonov A. 2004. Smaller Eastern Olivaceous Warbler Hippolais pallida elaeica  nests suffer less predation than larger ones. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

Kozloduy 3320, bl. 64, ent. A, ap. 14, BULGARIA, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The “costs of predation” hypothesis predicts that larger nests are more likely to be predated than smaller ones. However, nest size has not been found to be related to predation probability within any species. This study evaluated the “costs of predation” hypothesis in the Olivaceous Warbler during 2001–2003 in northwestern Bulgaria. Successful nests were significantly smaller and denser than those that were predated. Nest size decreased significantly during the course of the breeding season and increased with nest height. The relationship between nest size and the likelihood of predation was still significant even when the effects of laying date and nest height were controlled. Nest size was negatively related to fledging success even when only successful nests were considered. This finding is contrary to the prediction of the “sexual display” hypothesis, which states that nest size is positively related to fledging success, and suggests that nest size may signal phenotypic quality through the ability in this species to build a small but compact nest. It seems that both natural selection and sexual selection have led to the evolution of small nests in the Olivaceous Warbler. This is the most likely reason why the difference in nest-size between predated and non-predated nests was apparent, even in unmanipulated settings.

Key words: Olivaceous Warbler, Hippolais pallida, nest size, breeding, nest predation, fledgling success

 

 

Bańbura J.^1,2, Perret P.², Blondel J.², Thomas D. W.³, Cartan-Son M.², Lambrechts M. M.² 2004. Effects of Protocalliphora parasites on nestling food composition in Corsican Blue Tits Parus caeruleus: consequences for nestling performance. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

¹Corresponding author: Department of Experimental Zoology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90–237 Łódź, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Centre d’Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, FRANCE

³Centre de Recherché en Biologie Forestière, Universite de Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1 CANADA

Abstract. The influence of a parasite (larvae of Protocalliphora, Diptera: Calliphoridae) on an avian host (Blue Tit) was studied in 1994–1997 as part of a long-term research project on a population of Blue Tits inhabiting nest boxes on the island of Corsica. The Blue Tit broods were heavily infested with Protocalliphora larvae. The abundance of caterpillars as a key food type for the tits was monitored. A random sample of 16 nests was experimentally subjected to an anti-parasite heat treatment, which resulted in a marked decline in the numbers of Protocalliphora larvae. Untreated nests, with high numbers of parasites, were regarded as control nests. Under the anti-parasite treatment, Blue Tit nestlings were fed less frequently than the control nestlings (8 v. 11 food items per hour per nestling). Significant changes in the diet composition occurred, with parasite-free nestlings being consistently fed with fewer caterpillars. An average parasitised nestling was supplied by its parents with 2.6 caterpillars more than an average parasite-free chick. This suggests that in the highly parasitised control nests, the parent tits made an effort to compensate for the detrimental effects caused by Protocalliphora larvae. Feeding rate and food composition were shown to influence chick condition and survival in the nest. In spite of these facts, the nestlings in parasitised nests developed less rapidly and had lower survival rates than in the anti-parasitically heat-treated nests. The parasitic Protocalliphora larvae have a double effect on their avian host: they adversely affect nestling performance, and they compel adult tits to work harder in order to at least partially compensate for that influence.

Key words: Blue Tit, Parus caeruleus, ectoparasite, Protocalliphora, food composition, diet, parental care, compensation, nestling performance

 

 

Hetmański T. 2004. Timing of breeding in the Feral Pigeon Columba livia f. domestica in Słupsk (NW Poland). Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

Department of Zoology and Animal Physiology, Pomeranian Pedagogical Academy, Arciszewskiego 22b, 76–200 Słupsk, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The study was conducted from 1997–2001 in the city of Słupsk. Observations of individually marked birds were conducted from blinds located at city-centre sites where Feral Pigeons breed. The pigeons bred throughout the year, with peak broods in spring and summer. Different pairs timed their breeding such that the beginning of the season (from October to September of the next calendar year) overlapped the dates of completion (from April to December). 10% of pairs had already begun breeding in the autumn, while 86% did so between January and May. The remaining pairs (young ones, in particular) started breeding even later, mainly because of the lack of suitable nesting sites. The breeding period most often ended between August and October (75% of pairs), when the pigeons began their moult. 91% of the young birds joined the breeding population in their second calendar year of life. The remaining young birds had their first broods in the first or third calendar year of life. Pairs of young birds started nesting 2–3 months later than adult birds. The average length of a pair's breeding season was 183 days.

Key words: Feral Pigeon, Columba livia f. domestica, chronology, reproduction, structure of breeding population

 

 

Purger J. J.¹, Mészáros L. A.¹, Purger D.² 2004. Ground nesting in recultivated forest habitats — a study with artificial nests. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

¹Department of Zootaxonomy and Synzoology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Pécs, Ifjúság útja 6. H-7624 Pécs, HUNGARY, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Natural History Department of Janus Pannonius Museum, Szabadság u. 2. H-7623 Pécs, HUNGARY

Abstract. The study was carried out in the outskirts of the town of Pécs (southern Hungary) in a recultivated former coal mine. Bordered by Turkey Oak forests, this open area forms a wedge-shaped clearing in that woodland. Since trees and taller shrubs are rare in the area, it is mainly ground nesting bird species that occur in the clearing. In order to discover whether it is more advantageous to nest in the recultivated area (clearing) than in the nearby forest or at its edges, 150 artificial ground nests were constructed. On 7 May 2002, one quail egg and a plasticine egg of similar size were placed in each of the artificial nests. After a week it was found that 24% of nests in the clearing, 30% of those in the forest edge, and 44% of the ones inside the forest had suffered depredation. The proportions of damaged plasticine and quail eggs inside the forest and at the forest edge were similar, whereas the quail eggs in the clearings were significantly less damaged than plasticine eggs. Of all the experimental eggs, significantly more plasticine eggs (29%) were damaged than quail eggs (17%), which suggests that small-bodied predators are unable to break the quail eggs. 18% of the plasticine eggs attacked, and 72% of the quail eggs attacked were removed from the nest by the predator. Among the predators, small mammals were dominant in the clearing and inside the forest, and birds at the forest edge. Based on the predation of quail eggs, the survival chances of ground nests in the clearing are greater than at the forest edge or inside the forest.

Key words: artificial ground nest, plasticine egg, quail egg, nest predation, recultivated area

 

 

Randler Ch. 2004. Aggressive interactions in Swan Geese Anser cygnoides and their hybrids. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

University of Education, PH Ludwigsburg, Department of Natural Sciences, Biology and Didactics, Reuteallee 46, D-71634 Ludwigsburg, Germany, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Evidence for direct interspecific competition in wildfowl and between hybrids and their parent species is scarce. This study examined threat displays and agonistic encounters (n = 324) in a goose flock of 140 Swan Geese and 13 hybrids with Greylag Goose living in Heidelberg, SW Germany. In general, agonistic behaviour made up less than 1% of the time budget throughout the year as measured by focal animal sampling. Most encounters (84%) were won by the initiator, both in Swan Geese and in hybrids. No difference was found between Swan Geese and hybrids in the outcome of an encounter, suggesting equal competitive quality. There were differences with respect to threat postures with hybrids performing diagonal neck threats more often and intentional movements less often. This seems to be related to their hybrid origin, since Greylag Geese most often show diagonal neck and forward threat displays. There was no direct evidence for hybrid superiority or inferiority.

Key words: Swan Goose, Anser cygnoides, Greylag Goose, Anser anser, aggressive behaviour, foraging, hybrid superiority, competition, threat postures, wildfowl

 

 

Tworek S. 2004. Factors affecting temporal dynamics of avian assemblages in a heterogeneous landscape. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, Mickiewicza 33, 31–120 Kraków, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The influence of the characteristics of habitat fragments on the dynamics of avian communities and the effect that fragments of different sizes have on the stability of the breeding species composition, and also on local extinction, colonisation and turnover rates were studied in an agricultural landscape in southern Poland. The fragments included various habitat types that differed from the matrix. Breeding birds were surveyed using the territory mapping method to assess turnover. Species composition depended on both the spatial structure of a fragment and the features of its surroundings. Local declines and appearances of species had a similar influence on the turnover in all size classes of the fragments. Species that contributed most to the total turnover were: Lanius collurio, Phasianus colchicus, Anas platyrhynchos, Emberiza schoeniclus, Columba palumbus and Sylvia communis. However, there were differences among species contributing most to the turnover according to area size classes. Heterogeneous habitats in a mosaic-like, agricultural landscape do not function as islands. The existence of species in an area with such a level of habitat patchiness can be related primarily to habitat quality,  mainly because of poor isolation and the high permeability of isolating habitats.

Key words: mosaic landscape, species composition, turnover rate, extinction, colonisation, species-area relationship

 

 

Zduniak P. ^1,2, Yosef R.² 2004. Seasonal biometric differences between sex and age groups of the Graceful Warbler Prinia gracilis at Eilat, Israel. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

¹International Birding & Research Centre in Eilat, P. O. Box 774, Eilat 88000 , ISRAEL

²Department of Avian Biology & Ecology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Collegium Biologicum, Umultowska 89, 61–614 Poznań, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. An abundant resident in Israel, the Graceful Warbler breeds in the northern and central parts of the country and has recently invaded desert areas following their human settlement. Possible seasonal changes in age and sex structure were investigated, as were differences in body measurements in individual sex and age classes as well as changes in the numbers of the Graceful Warbler population in Eilat. No difference was recorded between spring and autumn in the proportion of males to females, nor were significant differences found in the numbers of males and females ringed during the spring and autumn seasons. There was a significant difference in the proportion of juvenile to adult birds trapped in spring and in autumn. Moreover, males had longer wings than females in both seasons. There were no differences in body mass or body condition between sexes in the two seasons.  Furthermore, adults had longer wings than first-year birds. Juveniles had longer wings in autumn than in spring, but no differences were recorded in the adults in this respect. In addition, juveniles were in better condition in spring than in autumn; however, there was no difference in body condition of the adults between seasons. The fact that a significant trend was found in the numbers of Graceful Warblers trapped in spring but no such trend in autumn, that a large proportion of recaptured birds were noted in both seasons, and that a high number of individual birds were caught repeatedly during the study period, suggests the existence of a stable or increasing breeding population in Eilat all the year round. In addition, the Bird Sanctuary is like an oasis in the desert environs of Eilat. Hence, the lack of differences among the years in the proportions of males and females between the seasons suggests that it is mainly breeding pairs that occupy the area.

Key words: Graceful Warbler, Prinia gracilis, Eilat, biometric

 

Milne R. J.¹, Poiani A.², Coulson G.¹, Auld R.³ 2004. Faecal Escherichia coli and Chlamydophila psittaci in the Superb Lyrebird Menura novaehollandiae: host sex and age effects. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

¹Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, AUSTRALIA

²Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering, La Trobe University, Mildura, Victoria 3502, AUSTRALIA

³Victorian Institute of Animal Science, Attwood, Victoria 3049, AUSTRALIA

Abstract. The Superb Lyrebird is a sexually dimorphic passerine that although is not considered endangered, it has been declining in population size since the 1940s due primarily to urban development. Recent reports suggest that lyrebirds may be threatened by chlamydial infection. We studied levels of faecal infection by two microparasites in lyrebirds: Chlamydophila psittaci and Escherichia coli in the Sherbrooke Forest, south-eastern Australia. Fresh faecal samples were obtained from 33 lyrebirds (15 adult females, 13 adult males and 5 juveniles) — estimated of 27.5% of the population, all of them tested negative to Ch. psittaci. E. coli prevalence was compared between adult males and females and no difference was found. This result is expected, for instance, if E. coli is sexually transmitted and lyrebirds are promiscuous. Trends for juveniles to be more parasitized than adults were detected, but they were statistically not significant. Behavioural analyses of video footage indicate that E. coli infected birds did not allocate more or less time to any of the activities considered than did non infected birds. This might suggest that E. coli infection in lyrebirds is relatively benign, and behavioural effects may thus be subtle. No significant differences were found in specific measurements of foraging behaviour but non infected birds tended to scratch more frequently than infected birds.

Key words: Superb Lyrebird, Menura novaehollandiae, pathogens, Escherichia coli, bacteria, Chlamydophila psittaci, Chlamydia

 

Ponton F.¹, Elżanowski A.², Castanet J.¹, Chinsamy A.³, de Margerie E., de Ricqlès A.¹, Cubo J.^1,* 2004. Variation of the outer circumferential layer in the limb bones of birds. Acta Ornithol. 39: 00–00.

 ¹P. & M. Curie University, FRE CNRS 2696, 2 Pl. Jussieu, Case 7077, 75005 Paris, France

²Institute of Zoology, University of Wrocław, Sienkiewicza 21, 50–335 Wrocław, Poland

³Zoology Department, University of Cape Town, Private Bag, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa

* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The core of the limb bone cortex of mammals and birds is made of rapidly deposited, fibro-lamellar bone tissue (also present in non-avian theropods), which is usually surrounded by an avascular outer circumferential layer (OCL) of slowly deposited parallel-fibered bone. We present the first comparative allometric study of the relative OCL thickness (expressed as a fraction of the diaphyseal radius) in modern birds. Body size explains 79% of the OCL variation in thickness, which is inversely correlated with size, that is, shows negative allometry (slope -0.799). This may explain the apparent absence of OCL in the ratites. Since the OCL is deposited at the end of growth, we propose that its relative thickness probably correlates with the amount of slow, residual growth, which our results suggest to be on the average larger in small birds.

Key words: bone histology, postnatal growth, ossification, skeleton, periosteal bone, phylogenetically independent contrasts

 

Errritzoe J.¹, Mazgajski T. D.², Rejt Ł.² 2003. Bird casualties on European roads - a review. Acta Ornithol. 38: 77-93.

¹House of Bird Research, Taps, Christiansfeld, DK-6070 DENMARK, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Museum and Institute of Zoology, Wilcza 64, 00-679 Warsaw, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. Road traffic affects the natural environment in numerous ways. The most striking of these is the death of wild animals and birds as a result of collisions with moving vehicles. In this paper the available data on bird mortality on roads is reviewed. Estimates of annual mortality for some European countries (350 000 to 27 million birds), the monthly distribution of casualties, their distribution among sex and age classes, as well as the methods used in the study of this problem are presented. The species composition of birds killed in this way is compared for several countries. In western Europe sparrows and blackbirds are the species that most frequently die on the roads, but in Central and Eastern Europe not only sparrows but also corvids and barn swallows make up a high proportion of the victims. Analysis of the monthly distribution of casualties in 10 species shows this to differ between countries, probably because of the geographic variation of certain aspects of their biology (migration, breeding etc.). Several factors affecting the frequency of casualties are discussed, and some suggestions for the prevention of bird casualties are also given.

Key words: road casualties, road kills, learning abilities, sex ratio, road planning, conservation

 

Bai M.-L., Wichmann F., Mühlenberg M. 2003. The abundance of tree holes and their utilization by hole-nesting birds in a primeval boreal forest of Mongolia. Acta Ornithol. 38: 95-102.

Centre for Nature Conservation, Göttingen University, Von-Siebold Str. 2, 37075 Göttingen, Germany, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Abstract. The natural tree holes and nest holes of hole-nesting birds were surveyed in four forest types in the west Khentii Mountains of NE Mongolia. The utilization patterns of species, size and condition of trees, as well as hole types, were investigated. The average density of tree holes in the study area approached 30 holes/ha, while that of hole-nesting birds was 2.4 nests/ha only. The riparian mixed forest had the greatest number of species and individuals of hole-nesting birds, while the spruce-fir forest had the lowest numbers. Excavating bird species preferred larger, deciduous trees, and snags. Non-excavators did not select holes according to tree species or size, but preferred holes in living trees and branch holes. In view of the low occupancy of holes among the four habitats, we suggest that the density of secondary hole-nesting birds is not limited by availability of holes in the study area.

Key words: boreal forest, tree holes, hole-nesting birds, nest-site selection, cavity nesters

 

Dinevich L., Matsyura A., Leshem Y. 2003. Temporal characteristics of night bird migration above Central Israel - a radar study. Acta Ornithol. 38: 103-110.

George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, ISRAEL, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The purpose of the research was to find a time frame for the beginning, duration of maximum intensity, and end of nocturnal bird migration. The research was carried out using photo registration on a radar screen during the spring and autumn seasons of 1999-2001. Examination of the average length of daylight at the beginning of migration and the onset of civil twilight yielded a high correlation factor for both spring and autumn. The results showed that, on average, nocturnal migration began at the onset of civil twilight, that is, half an hour after sunset. The time elapsing between the onset of migration and the maximum concentration of migratory birds averaged about 70 minutes in both spring and autumn.  Nocturnal migration usually came to an end within the one and a half to two hours after sunrise. We ascertained the seasonal time shift for the onset of nocturnal migration corresponding to the seasonal time shift related to the approach of darkness. The average times of the beginning, maximum intensity and end of nocturnal migration were found to be related to photoperiodic factors.

Key words: bird migration, weather radar, time features

 

Jayson E. A.¹, Mathew D. N.² 2003. Vertical stratification and its relation to foliage in tropical forest birds in Western Ghats (India). Acta Ornithol. 38: 111-116.

¹Division of Wildlife Biology, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi 680653, Kerala, INDIA, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Plot No. 1234, West End Colony, Mogapair, Padi P.O, Chennai - 600050, INDIA

Abstract. The study was carried out from May 1988 to April 1993 in two types of tropical forests: the tropical evergreen and moist deciduous. The vertical distribution of birds and foliage abundance was recorded by visual observation in seven height classes, using the line transect method. The vertical distribution of 94 bird species was recorded in evergreen forest, and of 90 in moist deciduous forest. Bird species richness and the numbers of birds were highest in the stratum from 1 to 5 m in both the evergreen forests (57 species) and the moist deciduous forests (68 species). The species richness indices of birds in the two types of forest did not display such a clear relationship. Foliage abundance was high up to a height of 30 m in the evergreen forests, whereas in moist deciduous forests, foliage was abundant only up to 20 m. A significant positive correlation was obtained between foliage abundance and species richness and also between the numbers of birds in both types of forests. No significant correlation was obtained between foliage abundance and the species diversity indices in the two types of vegetation.

Key words: vertical stratification of birds, tropical forest, Western Ghats, Kerala, India

 

Olinkiewicz A., Osiejuk T. S.* 2003. Effect of time of season and neighbours on singing activity in the Corn Bunting  Miliaria calandra. Acta Ornithol. 38: 117-122.

Department of Animal Morphology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 29 Czerwca 1956/198, 61-485 Poznań, POLAND

^*corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The seasonal pattern of singing activity was studied in the Poznań region, W Poland. Males sang from mid-March till late July with a song rate varying between 3.2 and 11.1 songs/min. Song activity peaked at the beginning of the breeding season, in late March and April. In following months males also sang at quite a high rate, but the probability of finding a singing male within the territory was lower. Males sang mainly from tree tops and power lines at a height between 8 and 10 m. Males with larger numbers of neighbours had a significantly lower mean song rate than those with a single neighbour. Most probably, males with more neighbours had to spend more time on more active and direct territorial defence, and/or listening to the song of other males. The pattern we found suggests that song is mainly used in territorial defence against rivals, and that it is used as a first line of defence. Nevertheless, this does not preclude its usefulness for attracting a mate.

Key words: Corn Bunting, Miliaria calandra, song rate, seasonal pattern, territoriality

 

Surmacki A.¹, Stępniewski J.², Zduniak P.¹ 2003. Repeatability of egg dimensions within the clutches of Bearded Tit Panurus biarmicus. Acta Ornithol. 38: 123-127.

¹Department of Avian Biology and Ecology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Fredry 10, 61-701 Poznań, Poland, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Mała Kościelna 9, 64-113 Osieczna, Poland

Abstract. The variation in size and shape of Bearded Tit eggs was investigated in the Wielkopolska Region of western Poland in 1988-1992 and 1997-2000. The mean clutch size was 5.47 (95% CL: 5.25-5.70, n = 99), and differed markedly from year to year. Coefficients of variations for the mean egg characteristics in a clutch ranged from 1.91 (breadth) to 4.90 (volume). No significant correlation between egg length and breadth was found.  Repeatability estimates were 0.50, 0.48, 0.50, 0.47 for length, breadth, volume and elongation index, respectively. The results suggest a relatively low heritability of egg dimensions in the population studied.

Key words:  Bearded Tit, Panurus biarmicus, egg size, clutch size, repeatability of egg dimensions, biometry

 

Vlachos Ch., Bakaloudis D., Chatzinikos E., Papadopoulos Th., Tsalagas D. 2003. Aerial hunting behaviour of the Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni during the breeding season in Thessaly (Greece). Acta Ornithol. 38: 129-134.

Department of Forestry & Natural Environment, Lab. of Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box 241, 54006, Thessaloniki, Greece, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. We studied the foraging behaviour of Lesser Kestrels in agricultural habitats during the breeding season of 2000. The birds spent more time hunting in flight than perched. During 398 min. of observed aerial hunting, they spent 23.7% hovering, 14.4% hanging, 14.0% flapping, 41.2% gliding, and 6.7% soaring. The time spent on each type of aerial hunting behaviour depended on factors like breeding stage, time of day, wind speed, number of strikes, number of successful strikes, and the time spent hunting. The strike rate was 0.38 per min., the capture rate 0.10 per min. The capture rate depended on the type of hunting behaviour preceding the attack and was highest after the birds had been hovering.

Key words: Lesser Kestrel, Falco naumanni, hunting methods, strike rate, capture rate

 

Winton B. R.¹, Leslie D. M. Jr.² 2003. Nest sites and conservation of endangered Interior Least Terns Sterna antillarum athalassos on an alkaline flat in the south-central Great Plains (USA). Acta Ornithol. 38: 135-141.

¹United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge, 209 Nature Drive, Lake Arthur, LA 70549, USA, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²United States Geological Survey, Oklahoma Cooperative Fish & Wildlife Research Unit, 404 Life Sciences West, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. We monitored breeding ecology of endangered Interior Least Terns on a 5 095 ha alkaline flat in north-central Oklahoma, USA. After nest loss, Least Terns commonly re-nested and experienced 30% apparent nest success in 1995-1996 (n = 233 nests). Nest success and predation differed by location on the alkaline flat in 1995 and overall, but nest success and flooding did not differ by microhabitat type. Predation was highest at nests £ 5 cm from debris (driftwood/hay) in 1995. No differences in nesting success, flooding, or predation were observed comparing nests inside and outside electrified enclosures. Coyotes and Striped Skunks were confirmed nest predators, and Ring-billed Gulls were suspected nest predators. We identified one location on the alkaline flat of about 1 000 ha with consistently lower nest losses attributable to flooding and predation and the highest hatching success compared with other parts of the alkaline flat; it was typified by open ground and bisected by several creeks. Management activities that minimize flooding and predation in this area could further enhance nest success and theoretically increase overall productivity of this population of Least Terns. However, the efficacy of electrified enclosures and nest-site enhancements, as currently undertaken, is questionable because of considerable annual variation in use by and protection of Least Terns.

Key words: Interior Least Terns, Sterna antillarum athalassos, apparent nest success, flooding, nest losses, predator exclosures, Oklahoma

Zduniak P.¹, Kuczyński L.² 2003. Breeding biology of the Hooded Crow Corvus corone cornix in Warta river valley (W Poland). Acta Ornithol. 38: 143-150.

¹Department of Avian Biology & Ecology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Fredry 10, 61-701 Poznań, POLAND, e‑mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

²Department of Animal Morphology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, 29 Czerwca, 61-485 Poznań, POLAND, e‑mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.        

Abstract. The study area (16 km²) in "Ujście Warty" National Park, W Poland - was the valley of a lowland river at its confluence with the River Odra, covered by a mosaic of grassy vegetation and willow scrub. 111 breeding attempts were recorded during 2000-2002. The mean nest density (3.2 nests/km²) was higher than that recorded by other authors in agricultural landscapes, but lower than in urban areas. The nest construction was adapted to fit young willow trees. The mean clutch size was similar to that recorded in other populations (4.43), but eggs were smaller (41.2 mm x 29.1 mm). The hatching success was lower (76%) in comparison with other studies, but the mean number of fledglings (2.15 per nest and 2.96 per nest in successful broods) was relatively high. The main reasons for losses were unhatched eggs, predators, starved nestlings and poor nest construction. We hypothesise that the smaller egg size and lower hatching success recorded in this population was due to unfavourable and unpredictable feeding conditions (floods) during the period of egg formation and egg laying. Later in the season, receding floodwaters laid bare areas suitable for foraging on invertebrates; waterfowl eggs also became readily available. As a result of good conditions during chick rearing, the overall reproductive output was relatively high in comparison with other populations.

Key words: Hooded Crow, Corvus corone cornix, breeding biology, breeding success, clutch size, egg size, "Ujście Warty" National Park

 

SHORT NOTES

 

Alabrudzińska J., Kaliński A., Słomczyński R., Wawrzyniak J., Zieliński P., Bańbura J. 2003. Effects of nest characteristics on breeding success of Great Tits Parus major. Acta Ornithol. 38: 151-154.

Department of Experimental Zoology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Łódź, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Łódź, POLAND

*corresponding author: e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. In this study, nest characteristics (size and proportions of basic components) were not correlated with the timing of breeding. Clutch size was negatively correlated with total nest mass but positively correlated with the proportion of the mass of the lining in the total nest mass. Analyses of hatching and fledging success showed that the quantity and proportion of moss in the nest structure as well as the nest size influenced the performance of eggs and nestlings at the nest. We suggest that variation in nest size and composition may be due to several contradictory pressures associated with the need to keep the moisture and temperature in the nest relatively constant, to protect the brood from predation, and to control sanitary standards.

Key words: Great Tit, Parus major, nesting, nest size, hatching, fledging

 

Kopij G. 2003. Diet of Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis chicks in an intensively managed farmland in South Africa. Acta Ornithol. 38: 155-157.

Department of Zoology & Ecology, Agricultural University of Wrocław, Kożuchowska 5b, 51-631 Wrocław, POLAND, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract. The diet of chicks was investigated in an intensively managed farmland in South Africa, after a prolonged drought, during the second brood (February/March). In comparison with other African studies, a larger proportion of frogs (mainly juvenile Pyxicephalus adspersus frogs) and a smaller  proportion of grasshoppers (locusts and crickets) was recorded. This may have been due partly to exceptionally low rainfall rather than to different habitat or geographical location. The large proportion of locusts and flies in the diet indicates that the Cattle Egret may play an important role in pest control.

Key words: Cattle Egret, Bubulcus ibis, food, South Africa