An Ecological Study of the Insects and Mites in the Nests of certain Birds in Britain

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Abstract
The chief aims of the survey and an important conclusion reached during some preliminary work are briefly stated. This latter was the recognition of two distinct nest types—the wet nest, exposed to rain, and the dry nest, sheltered from rain.The methods used to examine materials and record results are described. They were closely similar to those described in a previous publication.The insect fauna is listed under three headings: (a) ectoparasites of birds, which includes 12 species; (b) scavengers, including 66 species; and (c) predators, comprising 14 species. Figures are given for the frequency of occurrence and the abundance of the more important nidicole species, abundance being given as an arbitrary estimate. The importance of each as a pest is also briefly stated, and detailed records are given for uncommon or particularly interesting species.The mite fauna is dealt with in a similar manner. It includes one ectoparasite, 10 scavengers and 11 predators.The basic composition of nests and the temperature and humidity conditions within them are described briefly and the possible influence of these factors upon the nest fauna is discussed.The species of the dry nest community are classified, according to their feeding habits, as ectoparasites of birds, scavengers and predators, and according to their status in the nest, as regular, occasional and incidental inhabitants. The distribution of the group of species which truly characterises this community is discussed.