Protective Cover and the Use of Space: Different Strategies in Finches

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Abstract
The use of space in two finches (Emberizidae), lark buntings (Calamospiza melanocorys) and white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys), was studied experimentally relative to dense vegetation that may provide protection from predators. Both species were strongly influenced by such vegetation (cover). When cover was present, both buntings and sparrows would feed close to it. However, buntings avoided feeding in cover, and fed in its complete absence, while the more "conventional" sparrows preferred feeding in cover and never fed in its absence. This difference reflects the two species'' escape tactics: sparrows sought cover when attacked by raptors, while buntings never sought even nearby (< 1 m distant) cover when attacked. The attraction of cover for lark buntings appeared to be the obstruction it afforded, but its precise nature is not clear. Overall, lark buntings appeared to be the obstruction it afforded, but is precise nature is not clear. Overall, lark buntings and white-crowned sparrows exhibited very different strategies for the use of space around cover, and the existence of such differences has important implications for avian community organization.