Further Changes in the Breckland Avifauna Caused by Afforestation

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The relative abundance and occurrence of different spp. of birds are compared for short grass areas, heath, and in plantings of Pinus sylvestris ranging in age from 4 to 15 yrs. Relative abundance was detd. from counts obtained by general cruising, the number for each species calculated as a percentage of the total number for all spp. Separate counts were obtained for the breeding season, late summer, and the winter. The change in abundance and the invasion of new species with the increasing height of the trees gives a fine example of avian succession both during the summer and the winter. The total winter density is less than in summer and some permanent resident species change their habits and habitat. Comparison with a similar study in Germany shows close agreement between local bird distribution and height and character of the vegetation. An analysis made of specific habitat requirements of several species indicated song posts and proper nest sites as most important.