Age structure and density of red-capped robin populations vary with habitat size and shape

Authors: Major R.E.; Christie F.J.; Gowing G.; Ivison T.J.

Source: Journal of Applied Ecology, Volume 36, Number 6, December 1999 , pp. 901-908(8)

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Abstract:

Summary

1. In order to determine the influence of habitat shape on aspects of the population dynamics of birds, 196 male red-capped robins Petroica goodenovii were surveyed using song playback in large non-linear woodland remnants and linear roadside remnants in the wheatbelt of south-eastern Australia.

2. The average density of male robins was significantly higher in large non-linear remnants [0·86 ± 0·09 (SD) birds ha^–1] than in small linear remnants [0·35 ± 0·16 (SD) birds ha^–1].

3. Red-capped robins exhibit delayed plumage maturation, and 14% of the males captured were yearlings. This percentage was significantly higher in roadside remnants (20%) than in large, non-linear remnants (8%).

4. These results indicate that different population processes are occurring in the individual remnants and the dynamics of the metapopulation are potentially complex.

5. Land managers must not focus excessively on wildlife corridors (narrow, linear habitats) at the expense of appropriate management and restoration of large areas of native vegetation.

Keywords: conservation; corridor; fragmentation; metapopulation; remnants

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2664.1999.00457.x

Affiliations: 1: Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Research, Australian Museum, 6 College St, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia

Publication date: 1999-12-01