Lack of Nest Site Limitation in a Cavity-Nesting Bird Community

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Abstract
We examined the relationship between nest site availability and density of secondary cavity-nesting birds by blocking cavities in an oak-pine (Quercus spp.-Pinus sp.) woodland. In 1986 and 1987 we blocked 67 and 106 cavities, respectively, on a 37-ha plot. The combined density of secondary cavity-nesting birds did not decline in either year by a greater proportion on the treatment plot than on a control plot, indicating that cavities were not limiting. In habitats where timber management has not substantially reduced availability of natural cavities, managers should not assume nest site limitation; natural nest site availability should be evaluated before implementing nestbox programs designed to increase populations of secondary cavity-nesting birds.