J014: Making a bird bibliography. Borello, W.D. & Borello, R.M.

J015: Demography of the Linnet Carduelis cannabina in agricultural habitats. Bradbury, R.B., Morris, A.J., Moorcroft, D. & Wilson, J.D.

Alves, M.A.S. & Antas, P.T.Z. 1998. Bird communities in Atlantic Forest fragments in the south of Bahia State, Brazil. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 416.

The biodiversity of an area usually reflects its environmental quality. The South American Atlantic Forest has a high diversity, being one of the ten highest global priorities for conservation. We evaluated bird communities in fragments of Atlantic Forest in the south of Bahia (priority areas, the workshop Brazilian North eastern Atlantic Forest, 1993) to obtain bases for future conservation actions. Following the Rapid Ecological Assessment (Nature Conservancy proposal), we surveyed seven different areas (with two sample points), representative physiognomically of local natural vegetation, located between Eucalyptus plantations. These were surveyed using standardised methods including mist nets, transects, and spot counts for two days each in March 1997. A total of 138 bird species were recorded, including 41 species captured by nets. A multivariate analysis indicated differences in communities sampled were related to habitat characteristics. We registered species valuable for conservation, such as threatened endemics (Pyrrhura cruentata, Aratinga auricapilla, Amazona rhodocorytha) and rare species (Spizaetus tyrannus). Some essential elements of Atlantic Forest can survive in highly fragmented areas, perhaps because they maintain landscape heterogeneity with physiognomically different habitats. Therefore, these areas must continue to be preserved. We acknowledge our funders FUNATURA/ARACRUZ CELULOSE S.A.

Key words: communities, fragments, Atlantic Forest, biodiversity, conservation

 

Antas, P.T.Z. & Almeida A.C. 1998. Bird community of Eucalyptus plantation and adjacent Atlantic Forest Reserve, Espirito Santo State, south eastern Brazil. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 417.

The bird community living within Eucalyptus plantation (171 ha) planted for a cellulose mill and natural reserves (92 ha) in a 280 ha watershed has been monitored every two months since October 1993, funded by Aracruz Cellulose S.A. Using the same 12 mist-nets lines, with ten nets each, plus 24 fixed point counts, sampling core and contacts of man-made and natural habitats, 137 species were listed until December 1996. For the first time in Brazil, four species were found living entirely within mature (7 years old) Eucalyptus plantation and its understory. Man-made habitat supported 118 species shared with remnant Atlantic Forest reserves. Three species dominated the community before clear-cutting in November 1996 of planted stands: Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus punctatus, Chivi Vireo Vireo chivi and Yellow-breasted Flycatcher Tolmomyias flaviventris. The harvesting of Eucalyptus created an open habitat, quickly colonised by a different community. Three endangered species are listed, the endemic parrot Amazona rhodocorytha, and hummingbird Phaethornisidaliae and transient Bellbird Procnias nudicollis. The parrot and the hummingbird are resident in the watershed. The hummingbird used understory of the Eucalyptus stands for feeding and resting. Both species nested within the Atlantic Forest remnant. Austral summer and winter migrants also use the area.

Key words: Atlantic forest, Eucalyptus, endangered species, conservation, colonisation

Jiguet, F., Mougeot, F., Arroyo, B. & Bretagnolle, V. 1998. Research and conservation of the endangered Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax in France. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 418.

Little Bustards have recently suffered a severe decline in France (80% in 14 years), which holds currently only 1500 males. Unfortunately, this is also a very little known species. In order to propose efficient conservation policies along a Life-Nature European Conservation programme, we studied the breeding biology of this species on a 30000 ha study site in Western France over five years. Habitat use was quantified for males and females. Male territories were found to be large (10 ha), and consisted of areas of mixed and diverse crops. Male bustards consistently occupied areas with smaller fields and more diverse crops than areas that were not used. Both males and females exhibited a strong selection toward alfalfa, related to its higher insect availability. We also studied the lekking behaviour of the species, which appears to be unique, as males defend, in this area, large territories. Also, the sex ratio of adults is strongly biased toward males. These characteristics are not found in leks of this species elsewhere, e.g., Spain, and we suggest that they are a consequence of modern agricultural practices. Conservation measures should principally focus on land use (promoting extensive livestock rearing) and try to minimise adult female mortality at mowing.

Key words: Tetrax tetrax, conservation, lek, habitat use, France

 

Atkinson, P.W. 1998. Predicting the consequences of sea-level rise on bird populations. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 418.

Habitat loss can be a serious conservation problem. For example, saltmarshes in the United Kingdom are eroding due to rises in sea level and this may have adverse consequences for some bird populations. Here I present data on the Twite Carduelis flavirostris, an UK Red Data species, which has declined by over 50% since 1970. Over 95% of the English population winters on saltmarshes. In autumn, birds eat seeds of a variety of plants and there was only a weak relationship between seed density and bird numbers. In spring, Twite numbers were strongly determined by the density of Marsh Samphire Salicornia spp seeds which made up 100% of the Twite’s diet. It is possible to offset loss of saltmarsh by creating new areas through managed retreat, i.e. retreating sea walls up the land profile. This is becoming an increasingly attractive option due to the high costs of maintaining sea defences. Densities of Salicornia in 20 retreated sites were found to depend on factors such as area, wave energy hitting the site, slope and elevation. Simulation models were used to predict the effects of habitat change on Twite. Data on intake rates were collected and combined with data on plant density, seed density and other seed mortality (due to grazing, natural loss etc) and used to predict the number of birds each area of marsh would support. Appropriate management of even small areas (< 1ha) of managed retreat is predicted to be sufficient to maintain the current UK Twite population.

Key words: sea-level-rise, bird populations, Twite, saltmarsh

 

PROBIDES, Ruta 9, km 204, Rocha, Uruguay, e-mail probides@adinet.com.uy

Azpiroz, A. B. 1998. Biology and conservation of the endangered Saffron-cowled Blackbird Agelaius flavus in south-eastern Uruguay. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 419.

The Saffron-cowled Blackbird Agelaius flavus (Icteridae), is an endangered bird species which inhabits marshes and wet grasslands in south-eastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, north-eastern Argentina and Uruguay. There is little information available concerning its biology. Twenty field trips were carried out to Rocha department (southeast Uruguay) between December 1996 and July 1997. Data on distribution, habitat requirements, winter movements, breeding biology and the interaction with the also endangered Black and White Monjita Heteroxolmis dominicana (Tyrannidae) were obtained. Threats were also identified. Although the Saffron-cowled Blackbird is still a frequently observed species in southeastern Uruguayan wetlands, habitat modification along with brood parasitism by the Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis (Icteridae) could affect the species survival.

Key words: Agelaius flavus, biology, conservation, Uruguay, brood parasitism

 

1BirdLife International-Indonesia Programme, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia; ²ISP/ZMA, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands, e-mail birdlife@indo.net.id

Banko, P.C., Johnson, L.M. & Dougill, S.J. 1998. Translocation to promote species recovery of Palila, an endangered Hawaiian finch. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 419.

The single, small (3490 ± 303 SE) population of Palila Loxioides bailleui is dangerously concentrated within 40 km² of dry, subalpine forest on the west slope of Mauna Kea volcano on Hawaii Island. Palila are highly dependent on Sophora chrysophylla trees for foraging and nesting, and their habitat is vulnerable to fire, browsing by introduced ungulates, and invasion by alien weeds. Recovery actions include reducing numbers of browsing ungulates, rearing birds in captivity, and translocating birds to unoccupied areas of recovering habitat. During February-March 1997, we moved 25 juveniles 15 km from the west slope to the north slope of Mauna Kea, releasing them without conditioning. We also captured and radio-tagged 12 juveniles to serve as controls on the west slope. All birds survived translocation, but one control was depredated. Translocated birds remained on the north slope for 39 ± 7.4 SE days (range = 1 - 111) before returning to the west slope. Some females may have left the north slope because no mature males were available for nesting (females nest in their first year, males in their second). Although philopatry seems well developed in this relatively sedentary, non-migratory species, additional trials may enhance translocation as a tool for recovering Palila.

Key words: conservation, management, endangered species, Hawaii, Loxiodes bailleu

 

Batdelger, D. 1998. Conservation status of Great Bustards Otis tarda in Mongolia. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 420.

In this report I discuss some aspects of past and present numbers, distribution, and conservation status of the Great Bustard in Mongolia. The Great Bustard is endangered and is included in the Mongolian and Asian Red Data Books. It is distributed across the steppes of western, eastern, and central Mongolia. Over 2000 field observations were made between 1980 and 1996, and historical and recent records as well as unpublished reports were reviewed. In the past, the Great Bustard was common in Mongolia, and shared pastures with domestic sheep. However, their numbers and breeding areas have declined over the past forty years, and recently the population has declined sharply. The main causes for the decline are over-hunting, habitat destruction, pollution, and destruction of nests. International conservation measures focusing on habitat restoration should be implemented rapidly.

Key words: Otis tarda, endangered species, Mongolia, population decline

 

Battistini, G. 1998. The natural nest of the Humboldt Penguin. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 421.

Humboldt Penguins Spheniscus humboldti are common in many zoos around the world, but because little is known about their natural ecology and biology in the wild, there is still a low breeding success in captivity. The lack of information related to the Humboldt Penguin's natural habitat makes it difficult for zoo managers to recreate natural conditions on their artificial breeding sites. I tested the possible relationship between Humboldt Penguin nest characteristics and the breeding success at Punta San Juan, Peru between April and July 1995. The physical and environmental characteristics of 45 nests were monitored and compared with the breeding success of the pair occupying that nest. Nest-related behaviour was also noted. Breeding success of pairs occupying nests of different type, dimensions, humidity levels and orientation were similar, but penguins occupying nests exposed to the sea were affected by the tide and had a significantly lower breeding success than protected nests. Nests sizes and shapes are described. This study is intended to provide guidelines to improve penguin nesting sites and may help prevent diseases rare to wild penguins but common to captive penguins. Reproducing natural site conditions may help increase reproductive levels of Humboldt Penguins in captivity.

Key words: nesting, breeding success, nest exposure

 

Borello, W.D. & Borello, R.M. 1998. Making a bird bibliography. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 421.

We compiled a bibliography on the birds of Botswana. The earliest written reference to birds in Botswana was published in 1835. Each entry in the bibliography is annotated with a summary of varying length and a list of key words. One thousand eight hundred and twenty five citations were identified for the period 1835 to 1995. Each citation was numbered and indexed. An author index, a gazetteer, a glossary of subject keywords, and a detailed introduction that includes an overview of ornithology in Botswana from earliest times is presented. The bibliography was published in 1997 as "Birds of Botswana: An Annotated Working Bibliography, 1835 to 1995".

Key words: Africa, Botswana, records, gazetteer, historical

 

Bradbury, R.B., Morris, A.J., Moorcroft, D. & Wilson, J.D. 1998. Demography of the Linnet Carduelis cannabina in agricultural habitats. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 421.

Farming intensification in Britain has coincided with considerable declines in range and number of a large proportion of British farmland bird species. National re-capture data shows that Linnet survival rates have not decreased, suggesting that Linnet decline stems from reduced productivity. We measured productivity and chick condition in Linnet nests at conventionally and organically managed farms in Oxfordshire in 1995 and 1996. At both farm-types, 47% of nests produced at least one fledgling (mean of 4.08 fledged per brood). Weight/tarsus ratio and fat scores of chicks did not differ between farm-types. Linnets were very dependent on the seeds of dandelion Taraxacum and cultivated oilseed rape Brassica napus oleifera for chick food. With a minimum of two breeding attempts per season and over-winter survival of 0.361, productivity appears sufficient for population sustainability. However, the mixed farming landscape of Oxfordshire may be unusually favourable. Here, arable elements provide rape-seed and pasture provides weed food sources, including dandelion. Elsewhere, intensive arable farming may provide insufficient seed food throughout the breeding season to support successfully breeding Linnets, specially when oilseed rape is not part of the crop rotation.

Key words: Linnet, demography, agriculture, intensification, conservation

 

Brendel, U. M., Eberhardt, R. & Wiesmann, K. 1998. The Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos as an indicator of key habitats in the European Alps. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 422.

During a conservation project on Golden Eagles in the Berchtesgaden National Park large scale data assessing the influence of habitat quality for the Golden Eagle in the European were analysed using Geographic Information System (GIS). Local habitat models have been developed for different regions within the Alps by analysing extensive literature data on habitat requirements of the Golden Eagle. These models have been validated in workshops with international eagle specialists and using data of radio tracked Golden Eagles. Finally, these integrated models have been transformed onto an alpine scale. Given the role of the Golden Eagle as an important indicator species the analyses define key habitats within the alpine ecosystem and layers can be used as risk maps. They will help us to estimate further impact of human activities in the Alps and react before specific species populations decline.

Key words: Golden Eagle, key habitat, GIS-modelling, European Alps, indicator species

 

Chobot, J., Mödlinger, P. & Péczely P. 1998. Return of the Great Bustard to the Carpatian Basin. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 422.

The spreading of Great Bustard Otis tarda in Central Europe has a long history. However from the second half of our century there has been considerable deterioration of the Bustard’s environment connected to a great decline in their number. In the Carpatian Basin, most Bustards have survived in Hungary (1200 individuals). In Austria there are only 55 individuals, in the Czech Republic 15 individuals and in Slovakia only ten individuals. Therefore, experts are searching for ways to save the last living individuals and create suitable conditions for their future survival and growth of the remaining populations. The adjustment of agricultural production to maintain conditions suitable for bustards is the basic requirement. There are also other activities, which can help to save bustards, e.g. improving natural populations by keeping individuals in captivity. Sexual relations of both sexes are very often impaired in captive breeding conditions, therefore, a method of collecting semen from male bustards (under natural display conditions) and artificial insemination of females was developed to obtain fertilized eggs. Female bustards from Slovakia were inseminated and their offspring were hatched and grown. Our work testifies to the successful co-operation in bustard preservation between Hungary and Slovakia.

Key words: Great Bustard, captive breeding, Carpatian Basin

 

Whittington, P.A., Crawford, R.J.M., Dyer, B.M., Gildenhuys, A., Nel, D.C., Oatley, T.B., Thornton, M., Underhill, L.G., Upfold, L., Williams, A.J. and Wolfaardt, A.C. 1998. The rehabilitation of oiled African Penguins: a success story. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 423.

The cleaning and release of oiled seabirds has met with little success in most parts of the world, birds usually dying within a relatively short period after release. In contrast, cleaning, rehabilitation and restoration of oiled African Penguins Spheniscus demersus in South Africa, has been successful. The sinking of a bulk ore carrier, the Apollo Sea, in June 1994, resulted in the oiling of 10 000 African Penguins. Over 5000 of these birds were cleaned by the South African National Foundation for Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), of which 4076 were flipper banded before release. Subsequent searches have been made to locate these birds and other oil spill victims at breeding colonies. At least 57% of the birds released, survived for more than a year and 68% had been seen alive at breeding colonies by July 1997. Many of the birds have bred successfully and some survived a second oiling and cleaning in 1995. Long term survival of cleaned African Penguins was found to equate that of non-oiled individuals and the two oldest known African Penguins recorded in the wild were both rehabilitated oil spill victims. Cleaning of oiled African Penguins can make an important contribution to the conservation of this vulnerable, endemic species.

Key words: African Penguin, Spheniscus demersus, South Africa, oil cleaning, rehabilitation

 

Custer, C.M., Custer, T.W., Allen, P.D., Stromborg, K.L. & Melancon, M.J. 1998. Organochlorine contaminants and Tree Swallows along the Fox River and Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 423.

Green Bay, Wisconsin is contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) however, whether these contaminants affect reproduction in insectivorous birds is unknown. Tree Swallows, Tachycineta bicolor, are secondary cavity nesters that will nest in boxes and tolerate handling. Because Tree Swallows are aquatic insectivores, residues in their tissues are primarily indicative of contaminants in sediments. We studied swallows at two contaminated and two reference colonies in 1993, 1994, and 1995 in the Green Bay area. Swallows at the two contaminated sites had significantly higher PCB levels in eggs when compared to two reference sites. Eggs from clutches that contained dead embryos had higher PCB concentrations than eggs from clutches where all eggs hatched; there were no contaminant effects overall on reproduction, however. Twelve-day-old nestlings at the two contaminated sites accumulated significantly more PCBs than did nestlings at the reference sites demonstrating that PCB contamination came from the local area. The PCB congener profile in 12-day-old nestlings mirrored the congener profile in their food.

Key words: PCBs, Tree Swallow, contaminants, reproduction, Green Bay

 

1U.S. Geological Survey, PO Box 818, LaCrosse, Wisconsin 54602, USA, e-mail christine_custer@nbs.gov; ² U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; ³U.S. Geological Survey, Laurel, Maryland, USA

Custer, T.W., Custer, C.M., Stromborg, K.L. & Melancon, M.J. 1998. Effects of contaminants on Double-crested Cormorant reproduction in Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 424.

In 1994 and 1995, Double-crested Cormorants Phalacrocorax auritus were monitored from egg-laying through 12 days of age at Cat Island, Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. Sample eggs at hatching were analysed for organochlorines (including total PCBs, PCB congeners, and DDE), hepatic microsomal ethoxyresorufin-O-dealkylase (EROD) activity in livers of embryos, and eggshell thickness. The number of eggs per nest that hatched and survived to 12 days of age was estimated to be 2.2 in 1994 and 2.0 in 1995. Hatching success of eggs was not correlated with PCBs, the toxicity of PCBs based on congeners, or EROD activity. Hatching success was correlated with eggshell thickness and negatively correlated with DDE concentrations. Even though the insecticide DDT was banned in the early 1970s, we suggest that DDE concentrations in cormorant eggs in Green Bay are still having an affect on reproduction in this species.

Key words: contaminants, Double-crested Cormorant, PCBs, DDE, reproduction

 

1Dept. Biologia Animal I, Facultad Biologicas, Universidad Complutense Madrid, Spain; ²CNRS/CEBC, Villiers en Bois, F-79360 France, e-mail busards@cebc.cnrs.fr

Garcia, J.T. & Arroyo, B.E. 1998. Effect of rainfall on breeding success of Hen Harriers Circus cyaneus at the edge of their breeding range. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 424.

Geographically peripheral populations are likely to experience unfavourable environmental conditions, and therefore also be ecologically marginal. We have carried out an 8-year study on Hen Harriers breeding in an agricultural area, where colonisation is apparently recent, located at the southern limit of the breeding range of this species. The study area (195 km²) is located in the northeast of the Madrid Province. Hen Harrier annual density in the study area varied from 6 to 17 pairs. Average annual productivity (fledglings/pair) was significantly related to rainfall during the breeding period (F_1,6 = 87.4, P = 0.00008, r² = 92.5%) : productivity was higher in years when rainfall was higher, although clutch size did not vary significantly among years (F_5,40 = 0.90, n.s.). Annual mean fledging success (fledglings/hatchlings per nest) was significantly related to rainfall (F_1,4 = 35.1, P = 0.004, r² = 87.2%). Annual differences, therefore, appeared as a result of nestling mortality. The coefficient of variation (S.D./mean) of productivity decreased significantly with rainfall (F_1,5 = 29.8, P = 0.002, r² = 82.8%): between-pair variation was higher in dry years than in rainy ones. We suggest that productivity decreases and variability increases in drier years, as the conditions in our study area are more dissimilar to those existing in the central (original) breeding areas.

Key words: marginal populations, environmental conditions, breeding success, Spain, reproduction

 

1International Foundation for Conservation and Development of Wildlife, Inezgane, Morocco; ²DEEB, Graham Kerr Building, Glasgow University, University Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK, e-mail ifcdw@marocnet.net.ma; ³University of Abertay, Dundee, Scotland, UK

Dawson, R.J.G., McCormick, P. & Wishart, G.J. 1998. Captive breeding of Houbara Bustards: success of artificial insemination and population genetic aspects. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 425.

The International Foundation for Conservation and Development of Wildlife (IFCDW) is based in western Morocco. Since 1992 a breeding and release program has been established for the endangered Houbara Bustard Chlamydotis undulata. The species is widespread in North Africa, although it has declined appreciably in this and other parts of its range. For captive breeding, the initial founder stock was acquired by the harvesting of completed wild clutches in 1993 and 1994. In total, 218 eggs from 116 clutches were collected, from which 195 (89.4%) chicks hatched. Breeding from these birds using artificial insemination techniques has resulted in egg fertility now in excess of 80%, and the centre is close to achieving a productivity goal of 350 - 400 birds raised per year. Genetic analysis allows the sexing of day-old chicks, and is also used to monitor the genetic diversity within the breeding stock, and of those birds selected for release. We report great success in the captive breeding of Houbara. It is hoped that the integration of released birds into the wild population is as successful, to ensure the Houbara's continued survival. The work of IFCDW would not be possible without the generosity of H.R.H. Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

Key words: captive breeding, Houbara Bustard, artificial insemination, genetic monitoring

 

RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, Beds, SG19 2DL, UK

Donald, P.F., Evans, A.D., Pain, D., Muirhead, L.B. & Buckingham, D. 1998. Factors affecting nest survival rates of Skylarks Alauda arvensis on farmland. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 425.

The British Skylark population declined by almost 60% between 1970 and 1990. Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain this decline, most relating to changes in agricultural practices. One possible cause of the decline is a reduction in breeding success. We examine data from nearly 600 nests to assess the main causes of nest failure and factors affecting the likelihood of predation. Predation accounted for nearly all nest failures, with a very small proportion accounted for by starvation or agricultural practices such as harvesting or mowing. The factor most significantly affecting the likelihood of predation was found to be distance from the field edge, with nests closer to the field edge being more likely to suffer predation. Crop type and structure was also found to have an effect. Factors such as chick body condition, time of year and brood size had no significant effect. The results have implications for the practical conservation of this species.

Key words: skylark, farmland, nest, predation

 

1Canadian Wildlife Service, 5421 Robertson Rd, Delta, BC, V4K 3N2, Canada, e-mail john.elliott@ec.gc.ca; ²Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada

Elliott, J.E. & Gill, C.E. 1998. Influence of contaminants and food supply on productivity of Bald Eagles. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 246.

We compared reproductive success of Bald Eagles Haliaeetus leucocephalus nesting near industrial sites in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia compared to sites on the outer Pacific coast. Contaminants were assessed by chemical residue analyses of eggs and blood samples from adults and nestlings. Influence of food supply was examined by measuring prey deliveries to nests, nestling activity patterns and plasma lipid concentrations in nestling and adult eagles. Breeding success was generally high in the Strait of Georgia, 1.0 young/occupied territory, although there were areas of low productivity near pulp mills. At most of the putative reference areas, productivity was low (0.3 young/occupied territory). Food supply appears to have been the key factor limiting breeding success, based on a significant relationship (r² =0.521, P = 0.043) between mean annual productivity and mean plasma lipids, and measurement of reduced energy delivered to nests in a low productivity study area. There was no evidence that organochlorine pesticides, such as DDE, were affecting populations. However, eagles nesting near a bleached kraft pulp mill had elevated plasma levels of polychlorinated dioxins and furans compared to a reference area, which may have been a factor in low breeding success at that site.

Key words: Haliaeetus leucocephalus, pesticide, breeding, food, plasma lipids

 

Tall Timbers Research Station, Rt. 1 Box 678, Tallahassee, Florida, 32312, USA, e-mail engstrom@bio.fsu.edu

Engstro, R. T. & McNair, D. B. 1998. Influence of season of prescribed fire on birds in Longleaf Pine forests. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 426.

For more than 50 years, application of prescribed fire in the south-eastern coastal plain of the United States occurred mostly during the dormant season (December - March), whereas natural, lightning-ignited fires were most frequent from April to August (lightning season). We conducted field experiments over four years on four replicate pairs of 12 ha plots (one dormant-season and one lightning-season plot per pair) to measure the effects of biennial dormant- and lightning-season prescribed fire on bird populations in Longleaf Pine Pinus palustris forests in northern Florida. We collected spot-map and nest data before and after dormant- (January-February), and lightning-season (May-June) prescribed fires during treatment years (1995 and 1997), and in winter (1996) and the breeding season (1994, 1996) in non-treatment years. Breeding bird densities ranged from 11 to 15 pairs per plot, and we located ca 250 nests of mostly canopy and cavity-nesting species. Results include: (1) No evidence of adult mortality. (2) Temporary reduction in numbers of birds associated with the groundcover. (3) Opportunistic feeding with consequent elevated species richness and density in response to fire, especially in winter. (4) Alteration of winter territories of some species after dormant season fires.

Key words: low-intensity fire, populations, Longleaf Pine forests, groundcover, season

 

Los Alamos National Laboratory, University of Missouri-St. Louis, Dept. of Biology, 8001 Natural Bridge Road, St. Louis, Los Alamos, NM, MO 6312, USA, e-mail jfair@jinx.umsl.edu

Fair, J. M. & Myers, O.B. 1998. Life history traits and the ecological costs of contaminants on cavity-nesting birds. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 427.

The emergence of ecological risk assessment as a factor in environmental management decisions has resulted in a need for estimates of the relationship between exposure of organisms to contaminants and the response of the populations they make up. Life history traits, including growth pattern, size at maturity, and reproductive investments can influence the sensitivity to contaminants in addition to affecting their exposure probability. We compared two similar species with slightly different life history traits (Western Bluebird, Sialia mexicana and Ash-throated Flycatcher, Myiarchus cinerascens). Flycatcher nestlings have faster development rates and fledge 4-5 days sooner than bluebirds. Nest boxes (n = 350) were on Los Alamos National Laboratory land in north-central New Mexico and were located in areas with potential exposure to a wide variety of contaminants and in uncontaminated areas. Nest productivity, nestling growth, immune response, ectoparasites, and adult blood parasite load were measured. Overall, during 1997, 83% of bluebirds nests fledged chicks (nests = 22) while flycatchers fledged 71% (nests = 17). Bluebird hematocrits were significantly higher than for flycatchers. To estimate cell mediated immune response, phytohemagglutin (PHA) was injected into the wing web and compared to a control injection of phosphate buffered solution. Bluebird response to PHA was greater than flycatchers. Differences in areas and potential exposures are discussed. Nestling flycatchers, with the faster development may be more at risk to various environmental stresses, including contaminants.

Key words: contaminants, bluebirds, Ash-throated Flycatchers, immune response, risk assessment

 

BMB, Instituto de Ciëncias Biomëdicas, Universidade de Säo Paulo, Säo Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil, e-mail ranvaud@usp.br

Falcone, C. & Ranvaud, R.D. 1998. Recent history of Eared Dove colonies in southeastern Brazil. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 427.

Colonial breeding of Eared Doves Zenaida auriculata, is a new phenomenon in Southeastern Brazil. Although nesting can occur in trees, the largest breeding groups in this part of the world nest on the ground, in the protection of sugar cane plantations. The species is a pest locally and has been a symbol of environmental conflicts since the late 80's, with farmers and environmentalists opposed on landscape management strategies. Large colonies had already been reported in the late 1800's in the semiarid Caatinga in the Northeast of the country, and starting in the 50's in the Argentinean Chaco. In order to retrace how the population grew and expanded in the State of Säo Paulo, starting in the 70's, 674 questionnaires were sent to agricultural co-operatives and more than 100 people were interviewed. Field work at all sites that reported colonies established the size and exact location of the colonies. Altogether only five colonies could be firmly documented, of which one much larger than the others with a breeding population estimated at more than 4000000. Of the remaining four, one was very small and lasted for only two years (1987-1988), another became extinct in 1993, while the remaining two were smaller in 1996 than in previous years.

Key words: Eared Dove, Zenaida auriculata, colonial breeding, pest, population dynamics

 

BirdLife International, Wellbrook Court, Girton Road, Cambridge, CB3 0NA, UK, e-mail lincoln.fishpool@birdlife.org.uk

Fishpool, L.D.C., Heath, M.F., Waliczky, Z., Wege, D.C. & Crosby, M.J. 1998. Important bird areas - criteria for selecting sites of global conservation significance. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 428.

Some sites are exceptionally important for biodiversity conservation. Vigorous protection of the most critical sites is one important approach to conservation. Many bird species may be conserved by this means. Patterns of bird distribution are such that it is often possible to select sites that support many species. These sites, carefully identified on the basis of the bird numbers and species complements they hold, are termed Important Bird Areas (IBAs). IBAs are selected such that, taken together, they form a network throughout the species' distributions. This network may be considered as a minimum essential to ensure the survival of these species across their ranges. Sites are selected using standardised, scientifically defensible criteria of global applicability, developed as a result of wide consultation within the conservation and scientific communities. Selection criteria are based upon the presence of species of global conservation concern, of restricted-range, of species assemblages confined to major biomes and of concentrations of numbers. Initiated over 10 years ago in Europe and now being applied worldwide, the IBA approach is proving effective in bringing about site conservation at national and local levels.

Key words: important bird areas, conservation, site selection, global network, objective criteria

 

1Department of Biology, Pomona College, 609 N. College Ave. Claremont CA 91711, USA, e-mail gfowler@POMONA.EDU; ²Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia Austral, Unidad Academica, Caleta Olivia. 9345 Puerto Deseado, Santa Cruz, Argentina

Fowler, G.S., Frere, E. & Gandini, P. 1998. Adrenocortical responses to human disturbance in Magellanic Penguins under conditions of moderate vs. low levels of visitation. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 428.

Penguin and other seabird colonies have become important destinations for ecotourism in the past decade. Human disturbance can cause significant damage to reproduction in many seabird species, and can elicit the typical vertebrate adrenocortical response to stress. However, in at least one case with a long history of tourism, penguins have been demonstrated to habituate to tourists and no longer show behavioural or adrenocortical responses to nest visitation. We studied behavioural and hormonal responses to and recovery from simulated tourist visits at a colony that has been subjected to moderate amounts of tourism over the past 5-6 years, compared to an island with little or no human visitation. Birds on both islands showed a clear adrenocortical response to visitation, but we found no hormonal evidence of habituation in birds on the tourist island, although the birds appeared behaviourally less disturbed by human presence. Adrenocortical hormones returned to pre-disturbance levels within 2 h of the initial disturbance.

Key words: conservation, Spheniscus magellanicus, hormone, ecotourism

 

BMB, Instituto de Ciëncias Biomëdicas, Universidade de Säo Paulo, Säo Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil, e-mail ranvaud@usp.br

Freitas, K.C., Avanzo, V., Ranvaud, R.D. & Alberts, C.A. 1998. Diet of colonial Eared Doves in southeastern Brazil. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 429.

The appearance of a large breeding colony of Eared Doves Zenaida auriculata in the Paranapanema Valley (Säo Paulo, Brazil) in the early 1970’s was accompanied by severe complaints from soy bean farmers because these birds fed massively on cotyledons. From August 1994 to August 1995, about 50 crop contents were systematically collected every week, in order to understand the feeding strategy of the birds in this region and help quantify their impact on agriculture. Seven genera accounted for about 90% of the crop contents examined, of which 4 were cultivated grains (corn, wheat, rice and soy beans) amounting approximately to half the total weight. The other three were Brachiaria sp., Commelina sp. and Euphorbia sp., which were found mostly in months when cultivated grains were not available, and coinciding with times at which reproductive activity was at a minimum. Eared Dove diet in southeastern Brazil was different from literature reports for other regions, since mostly Croton sp. supported the northeastern Brazilian nomadic populations and sorghum was predominant in Argentina. The same general picture as described in Argentina emerges, however, since the birds rely on agricultural crops in extensive breeding periods, with several breeding attempts at the same location.

Key words: Zenaida auriculata, crop content, agricultural pest, colonial birds, soy beans

 

Gochfeld, M., Burger, J. & Brisbin Jr., I.L. 1998. Using birds and mammals as bioindicators of animal and human health risk. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 429.

Birds and mammals are exposed to chemical and radioactive agents that can cause toxic or developmental defects in consumers, both human and other animals. Most studies examine either the risk to humans, or the risk to the animals themselves, but not both. The U.S. Department of Energy which until 1989 operated many sites related to manufacturing nuclear weapons, is now faced with a large hazardous waste remediation program. Yet, to deal effectively with risk assessment for these sites that are a legacy of the Cold War, it is essential to develop bio-indicators that can be used for ecosystem management, and for predicting risks to the animals themselves and to humans and other consumers. Both Mourning Doves Zenaida macroura and Racoons can be used as bioindicators of damage to both the animal populations, and to their human consumers. We use data from the Savannah River Site (South Carolina, USA) to examine the threat caesium 137, lead and mercury pose. The data suggest that under some circumstances, these agents can pose a health risk to the consumers, and thus the ecosystem. This work provides a model for examining the radiological and chemical stressors associated with mixed hazardous waste that can be applied to ecosystems in other countries.

Key words: Mourning Dove, nuclear facility, contaminants, Racoon, extrapolation

 

1SOVON Birdcensus Work, Rijksstraatweg 178, 6573 DG Beek-Ubbergen, The Netherlands, e-mail sovon@inter.nl.net; ²RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, UK; ³BTO, Thetford, Norfolk, UK

Hagemeijer, E.J.M., Donald, P.F. & Fuller, R.J. 1998. Uses of atlas data with special reference to the European Ornithological Atlas. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 430.

With the publication of EBCC Atlas of European Breeding Birds: their distribution and abundance, a nearly unprecedented database has become available with data on the distribution and abundance of birds. Many aspects of ornithology can potentially make good use of these data. We will review the use of these data and atlas data in general for topics related to education and recreation, documenting distribution and population for conservation purposes, documenting changes in population range, providing a framework for survey design, assessing bird/environment associations, generating hypotheses about causes of range change and investigating aspects of theoretical ecology. The strength and weakness of atlas data are considered in each case. We conclude that atlases have become an indispensable tool for assessing large-scale patterns of bird distribution and distributional change. They have many applications in ecology and conservation and should be regarded as an essential complement to annual monitoring schemes.

Key words: Atlas, conservation, distribution, abundance

 

Department of Biology, University of Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK, e-mail dmh@le.ac.uk

Harper, D.M., Adatia, R., Virani, M. & Henderson, I. 1998. Avian indicators of habitat change and conservation requirements in tropical wetlands. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 430.

At Lake Naivasha, Kenya’s second Ramsar site, dramatic fluctuations in bird species and numbers have been recorded by the IWRB waterfowl counts this decade. These reflect changes in the underlying ecological structure of the wetland system over the past twenty years, caused primarily by the effects of alien species but also by the impacts of human activities superimposed upon natural water level fluctuations. The most damaging alien is the crayfish Procambarus clarkii. A cyclical relationship between populations of this species and littoral plants (Nymphaea, Potamogeton, Naias) mean that when crayfish are abundant and plants absent, populations of coot and duck plummet. In the absence of these original plants, the only habitat for reduced populations of birds such as lily-trotters, gallinules and lapwings is provided by floating water-fern Salvinia or angiosperm Eichhornia. Increased human activity degrades fringing Cyperus swamp and regeneration only comes from water level rise. New swamp supports herons, egrets and ibises. The last major rise was a decade ago and these species now exist in small patches generated after the annual rainy season rise. Avian biodiversity is maximised by natural dynamics maintaining habitat diversity, but threatened by the extreme changes caused by alien species and human impacts.

Key words: Lake Naivasha, habitat heterogeneity, waterfowl, Procambarus, Africa

 

Marshall's Pen, PO Box 58 Mandeville Jamaica, e-mail asutton@uwimona.edu.jm

Haynes-Sutton A.M. 1998. Conservation implications of banding and recoveries of seabirds in Jamaica. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 431.

Caribbean seabirds are among the least well studied in the world. Little is known of their population dynamics or movements among colonies. Therefore banding recoveries from Jamaica from 1960-1997 were analysed according to species composition, breeding colony, seasonality, place of recovery, and age at recovery. Individuals of seven larid species and two pelcaniformes were recovered. Royal Terns Sterna maxima (mostly from Carolina and Virginia) were the most frequently recovered species. Recoveries were also noted of 5 species banded in Jamaica or the Caribbean and recovered as adults in Jamaica. These included Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata, Brown Noddy Anous stolidus, Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis and Brown Booby Sula leucogaster. The evidence of exchange among colonies suggests that an international approach is essential for conservation and management of Caribbean seabirds. In addition a co-ordinated international programme of banding is recommended.

Key words: the world conservation, seabirds, banding, recoveries, Jamaica

 

1Texas A&M University-Corpus Christie, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, Texas 79412, USA, e-mail ghickman@falcon.tamucc.edu; ²University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, PO Box 127, Rosetta, 3301, South Africa, e-mail Maclean@futurest.co.za

Hickman G.C. & Maclean G.L. 1998. A world guide to bird guides. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 431.

Bird guides are important for providing a biogeographic overview of historical distributions, instigating research, and encouraging conservation, education, recreation, and ecotourism. Bird guides are also a convenient introductory reference to the literature on avifauna of particular geographic and politically defined areas. This report updates the current status of a fifteen-year project to compile a listing of avifaunal guides. Analyses of numbers of identification guides available for each biogeographic realm and country indicate areas where field guides are needed. A review of major field guide features is also presented for consideration in the production of future field identification guides.

Key words: field guides, bird guides, identification, biogeography

 

The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113, Japan, e-mail ishiken@uf.a.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Ishida, K. & Takashi, M. 1998. Threats to populations of Scolopax mira and Zoothera major on Amami Island, Japan. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 431.

Amami is a small island at the northern border of Oriental Region with many endemic biological populations. Two endemic bird species, the Amami Woodcock (AW) and the Amami Thrush (AT), are seriously endangered. We have little biological information on the two populations. We counted the number of AWs seen at night on mountain roads from a vehicle. We attempted to obtain homeranges by radiotracking individuals fitted with transmitters. For ATs, we counted the number of individuals singing at dawn in early breeding season. Densities of AW were 0 to 37.1 birds per 10 km². This figure varied by vegetation, areas, seasons and year. Generally speaking, AWs were more abundant around primitive forests, although they did occur in some of the secondary forests. AW is more abundant and distributes wider after breeding season than AT. AW has dramatically decreased in the range of introduced mongoose habitation. The breeding population of ATs has been estimated at little more than 50 pairs, with some small annual fluctuation. AT inhabits only old natural forest with humid ground. Old natural forest habitat has been diminished by timber cutting for pulp and road construction. Three endemic bird species forage on the ground and are supposed to be predated by introduced mammals. Conservation methods should centre around conservation of old natural forest and the removal of the introduced mammalian predators.

Key words: Amami Woodcock, Amami Thrush, forest conservation, introduced predators, endangered species

 

1Laboratory of N. Japan's Ornithology, 2-3, Shunkocho, Asahikawa 070, Japan, fvgh6330@mb.infoweb.or.jp; ²Hokkaido Office, Foundation of River and Watershed Environment Management, Iwakura-Bldg., S1(W7) Sapporo (060-0061), Japan

Ishikawa, N. & Kudo, N. 1998. Artificial walls with entrance holes used by nesting Kingfishers and Sand Martins. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 432.

Birds that build their nests in clay banks of rivers, such as Kingfishers Alcedo atthis and Sand Martins Riparia riparia have difficulty building their nests due to river preservation. This is especially the case with urban rivers. The result of observations and research proved that Kingfishers and Sand Martins will use artificial walls with built-in entrances for nesting. Nest blocks made from concrete and other material were designed in 1990, manufactured in 1991 and set up along rivers in Asahikawa in 1992. The blocks were occupied immediately by Kingfishers and Sand Martins for nesting. A Kingfisher block has one hole and a Sand Martin block has nine holes within one meter square. Thirty-three Kingfisher blocks were set up in ten places at four rivers in Asahikawa and fifty-five breeding events have been observed in the past six years. About two hundred Kingfisher blocks and five hundred Sand Martin blocks are in use all over Japan.

Key words: Alcedo atthis, Riparia riparia, conservation, breeding biology, artificial habitat

 

Department of Zoology, University of Otago, PO Box 56 Dunedin, New Zealand, e-mail ian.jamieson@stonebow.otago.ac.nz

Jamieson, I. G. & Ryan, C. J. 1998. High infertility in a translocated population of endangered Takahe in New Zealand. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 432.

Takahe Porphyrio mantelli are a large flightless rail endemic to New Zealand. There are approximately 170 birds left in the wild, 65% in a remnant alpine population with the remainder established on four predator-free islands. Most breeding pairs on islands have high rates of infertility in their first clutches of the season but not subsequent replacement clutches. We found that trace elements selenium and manganese, which are essential nutrients for egg fertility, were in significantly lower concentrations in plant food species of Takahe on islands than in alpine habitats. However, concentrations of these elements in blood samples taken from birds on islands were normal. An alternative explanation for the high infertility is the acceleration of the breeding season by up to two months because of the milder climate on islands may have resulted in males and females being out of synchrony in their breeding cycles. This hypothesis is being tested by examining sperm numbers on the outer perivitelline membrane of dissected eggs. The results of this study will have significant implications for the management of translocated populations of endangered birds.

Key words: Takahe, New Zealand, conservation, endangered, infertility

 

J044: Effects of pasture farming on Francolin populations (Galliformes) and other bird assemblages in highland grassland

Percy FitzPatrick Institute, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa, e-mail RJANSEN@botzoo.uct.ac.za

Jansen, R., Little, R.M. & Crowe, T.M. 1998. Effects of pasture farming on Francolin populations (Galliformes) and other bird assemblages in highland grassland. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 433.

Grasslands, particularly highland grasslands, are among the most threatened habitats in southern Africa and have been assigned a high priority for conservation. Little work has been done in South Africa which describes the change in bird assemblages where the dominant vegetation is still grassland, holding a matrix of modified versions of the original ecosystem. We investigated the population densities of Redwing Francolin Francolinus levaillantii (an indicator species of natural 'sour' grassland), Greywing Francolin F. africanus and the occurrence of other grassland bird species over nine study habitats, managed under varying levels of grazing intensity and burning frequency, in the montane grasslands of Mpumalanga province, South Africa, over a two year period (1996-1997). Francolins were counted using English pointer dogs. Bird species presence/absence data were collected biannually over the study period. Redwing Francolin and the total number of bird species (including endemic and threatened species) were confined largely to conserved, unburnt, ungrazed grasslands, whereas, Greywing Francolin were distributed evenly over all grassland habitats. Two avian assemblages based on species richness were recognised and these are indicative of the level of habitat utilisation.

Key words: bird assemblages, burning, Francolins, grasslands, habitat

 

Swiss Ornithological Institute, CH-6204 Sempach, Switzerland, e-mail JenniL@orninst.ch

Jenni, L. 1998. How should the scientific programme of the International Ornithological Congress be structured? Results of a questionnaire. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 433.

As chairman of the Scientific Programme Committee for the 22nd International Ornithological Congress, I conducted a survey among the members of the International Ornithological Committee in order to learn more about how participants feel about the structure of the scientific programme and the changes made at the Vienna Congress. A total of 125 (62% of 202) members returned the questionnaire and replied to the six questions asked. Thirty nine percent of the returned questionnaires contained specific suggestions. There was a slight preference for 10 instead of five plenary lectures, a low acceptance of 3 min oral poster presentations (introduced at the Vienna Congress), and a clear vote in favour of 15 min oral presentations (dropped at the Vienna Congress). A greater number of symposia was generally preferred over increasing the number of round table discussions, while round table discussions and oral presentations received similar preferences. However, there seems to be a majority who prefer "classical" presentations (symposia and oral presentations) and a minority favouring discussions. Major concerns expressed in various suggestions referred to the limited time available for informal get-togethers, the presentation of really new results and ideas, the way of organising symposia and inviting speakers, the absence of actual discussions in some former round table discussions and the inclusion of short oral presentations.

Key words: International Ornithological Congress

 

4225 Reghin Str Eminescu 26, Romania

Kalabér, L.V. 1998. Status of the diurnal birds of prey in Romania. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 433.

Because of the environmental changes in the last decade in Romania we could notice a lot of transformations within almost all species of the diurnal birds of prey Falconiformes. At the beginning of the century Romania had the richest avifauna of birds of prey in Europe. Between 1912-1950 all species of vultures disappeared except the Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus from the Romanian avifauna. Between 1950-1985 the avifauna of the Romanian diurnal birds of prey was still relatively high, but a small decrease of some populations was noted. But in the last ten years the following species have disappeared: Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni, Bonelli’s Eagle Hieraëtus fasciatus, Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax orientalis and Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus. A large decrease has been observed in the following species: Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga, Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina, Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaëtos, Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca, White-tailed Eagle Haliaëtus albicilla, Osprey Pandion haliaëtus, Peregrine Falco peregrinus Booted Eagle Hieraëtus pennatus and Black Kite Milvus migrans. The causes are: the organo-chlorate substances used in agro-silviculture, the cutting of forests, the intensive sheep-breeding in some regions, the attitude of the people, legal hunting with a lot of mistakes, illegal hunting, the black market trade with live or stuffed birds and the lack of explicit laws. Initiation of projects protecting these species is important.

Key words: biochemical examination, diminution causes, environmental changes

Department of Chemical Pathology, University of Cape Town Medical School, Observatory 7925, South Africa, e-mail kelso@chempath.uct.ac.za

Kelso, J.F., Harley, E.H. & O'Ryan, C. 1998. A molecular investigation of the effects of longline fishing on South Atlantic seabirds. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 434.

The burgeoning longline fishery in the Southern Ocean has resulted in unprecedented levels of incidental seabird mortality. As a signatory to various international accords, South Africa has committed itself to addressing this problem. To date non-genetic methods have been used to assess the impact of longline fisheries on breeding seabird populations. Elucidation of genetic relationships between these populations would play an important role in the development of an effective management plan for both local and international longline fisheries. Microsatellite analysis was the method of choice in this study. A microsatellite library was constructed from White-chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis DNA using both standard and enriched approaches, and PCR primers were developed. Seabirds from a number of Southern Ocean islands, as well as birds forming part of the longline bycatch, were genotyped. Data was analysed using various population genetic statistics. The primers developed are informative in related Procellariiform birds and will find application beyond the scope of this study. High levels of polymorphism were observed with evidence of population structure. This study forms the basis for determining which populations are most at risk from longline fisheries, and for the implementation of appropriate conservation legislation.

Key words: longline fishing, Procellariiformes, microsatellites, population genetics

 

Kazakstan-Central Asian Zoological Society, Institute of Zoology, Akademgorodok, Almaty, 480032, Kazakstan, e-mail: kovshar@zool2.academ.alma-ata.su

Kovshar, A.F. 1998. Cranes in Kazakstan. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 434.

There are three species of cranes in Kazakstan territory which has an area of 2.72x10⁶ km² situated in the centre of continental Asia. All of them are included in the Red Data Book of Republic of Kazakstan. The Common Crane Grus grus nests mainly on wetlands in northern Kazakstan. For the last ten years the numbers of this species have been decreasing . The Demoiselle Crane Grus virgo occurs in dry steppes and semi-deserts of Kazakstan from the western to the eastern borders of the Republic. After ploughing up the steppes in the 1950s the area of its habitat and its numbers declined sharply. From the end of the 1970s the numbers of Demoiselle Cranes have increased because of its adaptation to nesting on wheat fields. In some areas Demoiselle Cranes occur in forest-steppes at the northern limits of its range and in wet lands of deserts at the southern limits of its range in Kazakstan. Numbers increased in the 1980s to 80000 – 100000 and are still increasing. The Siberian Crane Grus leucogeranus is one of the rarest cranes in the world. Individuals migrate across Kazakstan: in August-October on the way from Siberia to wintering areas in India and in March-May on the way back. Over the last ten years its numbers have decreased to critical levels and occurs rarely as single individuals or in small groups of up to five birds. Kazakstan participates in the work of monitoring this rare bird under the auspices of the Bonn Convention and International Fund of Crane Conservation. Recent research on cranes in Kazakstan: has included investigation of migration routes of the three species using radiotransmitters, research on Demoiselle Crane nesting, investigation of the moulting areas of Common Crane and experiments on releasing of captive bred Siberian cranes into migrating flocks.

Key words: Siberian Crane, Demoiselle Crane, Red Data Book, number, monitoring, radiotransmitter

 

Institute for Systematics and Population Biology / Zoological Museum, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 94766, 1090 GT Amsterdam, The Netherlands, e-mail: lammertink@bio.uva.nl

Lammertink, J.M. 1998. Woodpeckers as a tool for guiding forest management in Kalimantan, Indonesia. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 435.

Much of the biodiversity in a forest depends on old and standing dead trees, yet a striking characteristic of managed forests is a low density of these elements compared to natural forests. This project aims to help develop guidelines for the minimal density of old and dead trees that should remain in managed lowland tropical forest, through an assessment of the habitat requirements of 13 sympatric woodpeckers (Picidae) in Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. Seven out of 29 months of fieldwork have been carried out to date. The first phase of the project looked at species composition and densities of woodpeckers, and forest structure, in areas with differing histories of disturbance. Detailed studies of woodpecker foraging ecology and habitat use are now under way in primary and disturbed forest. The final part of the project will look at the effects of diminished diversity on niche partitioning within the woodpecker guild, both in the short run in disturbed forest, and on small islands with few woodpecker species that have been isolated for approximately 10000 years.

Key words: niche partitioning, forest management, Picidae, foraging, Borneo

 

Fondazione Bolle di Magadino, via Campagnola 42/b, CH-6877 Coldrerio, Switzerland, e-mail rlardel@ated.ch

Lardelli, R. 1998. Habitat preferences and breeding densities of the birds of the Bolle di Magadino (southern Switzerland). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 436.

The breeding bird population of this Ramsar site (661 ha) is being studied to evaluate the abundance and the spatial structure of the breeding birds, particularly of endangered species, and to measure the effects of the fragmentation of habitats and of the variation of water level on densities and habitat occupancy. The area (lake, river, reedbed, mixed shrub, wood, farmland) is fragmented in more than 3000 units classified with 145 typologies of habitat and their structures. Breeding birds data are collected yearly by territory mapping. The analysis is effected with the aid of a GIS. Sixty four species have been found till now. In the poster the preliminary results (1992-1995) are summarised. A table presents the number of territories per year for each species, the habitat preferences, densities/habitat and minimal habitat extension requirement/territory. The spatial models of Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus and Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus are presented and analysed in detail as examples. The water level influences the distribution of some species.

Key words: habitat preferences, densities, effects of fragmentation, Acrocephalus, Ixobrychus

 

Cousine Island, c/o GPO Ground Anse, Pruskin, Seychelles

Le Maitre, S. 1998. Translocation of the Seychelles Magpie Robin Copsychus sechellarum. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 436.

The Seychelles Magpie Robin Copsychus sechellarum is a critically endangered endemic species currently found on only four small granitic islands. In 1987, the world population was 23 individuals, all confined to one island, and had previously been as low as eight birds. A recovery plan initiated by BirdLife International in 1990 produced a positive response. The population increased by 52% during 1993 alone and had reached a total of 67 fledged birds by December 1997. Satellite populations have been established on two islands, Cousin and Cousine, where breeding success has been excellent. Attempts at establishing a population on Aride have repeatedly ended in failure. The reasons for this remain unclear although poor translocation methods and potential disease threats may well be contributing factors. At present, no further islands have been identified as being suitable for translocation.

Key words: critically endangered, recovery plan, translocation, disease

 

A-6020 Innsbruck Technikerstr. 25, Institut für Zoologie, Universitet Innsbruck, Austria, e-mail karwendel@tirol.com

Lentner, R. 1998. Quantitative relations between bird communities and habitat structures in agriculture landscapes in the Alps, Austria. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 437.

Bird communities in agriculture landscapes show remarkable differences in distribution and seasonal dynamics. This study examines the influence of structural habitat parameters on these phenomena. Bird communities were investigated in three different agriculture landscapes in the Austrian Alps (study area = 9775 km²) from 1988 to 1994. Each area was observed during one year using either a quantitative grid-mapping technique (two areas) or a strip-transect-census within fixed boundaries (one area) under standardised conditions (62500 m² grid units, 15 min per control; 250 m strip transect 50 m boundaries, 15 min per control). The habitat structure was registered by a quantitative method of biotope measuring. In each grid unit twenty measuring points have been registered in different heights of the vegetation. The breeding species of the investigated agriculture areas were significantly more diverse in comparison to the expected amount in Central Europe. This higher amount of abundance and breeding species was caused by less than 20% of the research area. In the rest of the territory few birds existed. The number of vegetation layers was the dominant factor for the abundance and species richness. Vegetation covering, maximum vegetation height and the number of different biotope types were also important parameters for bird settlements. The different biotope types showed pronounced seasonal changes in bird abundance and species richness. On an average the bird abundance was higher in the time of the breading season. Farmhouse dominated villages and farmlands were very attractive for birds between September and March. Woodlands showed constant bird richness during the year.

Key words: biodiversity, agriculture, habitat-structure, grid mapping, Europe

 

University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China, e-mail mrleven@hkusua.hku.hk; 11/c La Clare Mansion, 92 Pok Fu Lam Road, Hong Kong

Leven, M.R. 1998. Rapid assessment of the shrubland bird community in Hong Kong. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 437.

In Hong Kong, statutory environmental assessments are required for most developments only where the importance of a site can be demonstrated by a preliminary survey. Accordingly, a methodology was developed to test how rapid quantitative assessment of bird numbers and species diversity might be obtained in shrubland. Standardised point counts were undertaken and the results obtained compared with those derived from intensive mist netting. Certain habitat factors were recorded; these were selected so that they did not require detailed knowledge of other taxa or extensive survey time. Results demonstrated that a single point count survey during the breeding season was sufficient to obtain a measure of the abundance and diversity of the breeding bird community. Migrant species present during the winter were underestimated compared to results obtained when trapping, however the numbers of many of these species could be related to certain of the environmental factors recorded. Thus, the methodology can be applied as a rapid assessment technique, even at a time of year when migrant species are not present, so long as results are interpreted to infer the presence and numbers of these species. Where a high diversity is indicated, a comprehensive assessment can then be justified.

Key words: census, point counts, ringing, mist-netting, migration, environmental assessment

 

1Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Council, Private Bag X134, Pretoria, South Africa, e-mail nipbll@plant1.agric.za; ²Potchefstoomse Universiteit vir Christelike Hoër Onderwys, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, South Africa

Lötter, L. & Bouwman, H. 1998. Geographical distribution of organochlorine pesticide residue levels in Helmeted Guineafowl. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 438.

We evaluated the Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris as indicator of environmental organochlorine pollution in South Africa. The Helmeted Guineafowl is a large terrestrial bird often associated with agricultural areas. The birds were collected on organised hunts and the blood and tissues analysed by gas chromatography. Pesticides such as DDE, dieldrin, endosulfan and other organochlorines are present. Helmeted Guineafowl from one study area contained very high levels of DDE. The results furthermore indicate that pesticides could have played a role in the decrease of the Helmeted Guineafowl numbers due to lethal and sub-lethal effects, or by limiting the availability of insect prey. Helmeted Guineafowl are suitable terrestrial indicators of environmental organochlorine pollution.

Key words: Helmeted Guineafowl, Numida meleagris, organochlorines, pesticide residues

 

Arthur Rylah Institute, PO Box 137, Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084, Australia, e-mail r.loyn@nre.vic.gov.au

Loyn, R.H. & McNabb, E.G. 1998. Conserving large owls in forests in Victoria, Australia. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 438.

Large owls are top predators in Australian forests, with large home ranges. They need old hollow trees for nesting and often prey on arboreal mammals which also use old hollow trees. Hence it is a special challenge to conserve these birds in forests which are used for multiple purposes including timber production. Owls and arboreal mammals were surveyed at 1500 sites, using call playback and spotlighting. Results from 472 sites in north-east Victoria have been modelled with respect to habitat and context variables, using logistic regression. Powerful Owls Ninox strenua were most likely to be found in forests with abundant hollow-bearing trees; diverse vegetation types within 2km; extensive mature forest within 5km; not much wet or damp forest within 2km and not much pure regrowth within 5km. Inclusion of unmapped habitat variables explained more variation but had little effect on predictive power. Sooty Owls Tyto tenebricosa favoured wetter forest, with some overlap. The models were used with GIS and other information to identify broad areas where special attention will be given to conserving large forest owls.

Key words: owls, forests, GIS, habitat

 

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL UK, e-mail Robert Lucking@International@RSPB.Lodge

Lucking, R.S., McCulloch, N. & Pain, D. 1998. The conservation management of the Seychelles Magpie Robin Copsychus sechellarum. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 438.

The Seychelles Magpie Robin Copsychus sechellarum is a critically threatened Seychelles endemic having been extirpated throughout most of its former range as a result of habitat destruction and predation by introduced rats and cats. By 1965 the entire population was confined to 270 ha Fregate Island and numbered no more than 12 individuals. In 1990, when the population numbered 22 birds, BirdLife International launched the Seychelles Magpie Robin Recovery Programme with the aim of removing the Magpie Robin from the list of threatened species. Supplementary feeding was used to alleviate low food availability, nest boxes were erected to provide safe nesting sites and the use of organochlorine pesticides in habitations and gardens was banned. As a result of management, the Magpie Robin population on Fregate doubled through increases in nesting frequency and annual survival. Surplus birds have been translocated to establish breeding populations on two other suitable predator-free islands. Future work will be directed towards consolidating the future of established Magpie Robin populations, the rehabilitation of further islands for Magpie Robin translocations and integrating the conservation needs of the Magpie Robin with the economic development of small islands.

Key words: Seychelles Magpie Robin, recovery programme, supplementary feeding, translocation, conservation

 

Percy FitzPatrick Institute, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa, e-mail mmangnal@botzoo.uct.ac.za

Mangnall, M.J. & Crowe, T.M. 1998. Egyptian Geese: agricultural pests or a sustainable resource? In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 439.

Egyptian Geese Alopochen aegypticus, are thought to be major agricultural pests which forage on the grain crops south of Bredasdorp, Western Cape, South Africa, during sowing and harvesting periods. Moreover, Southern African wildfowl, as in many other parts of the world, have been utilised for sport-hunting and will probably be under increasing pressure as the demand for wing-shooting increases in the sub-region. Variation in the spatial and temporal abundance and distribution of Egyptian Geese is related not only to the type of agricultural crop but also to the seasonality of rainfall and status of the growing crop. The limited number of natural waterbodies within the region act as important havens for roosting and breeding. A clear preference has been shown for surface seeds, with greater numbers of birds present on wheat and barley lands. Trampling by geese and resultant re-germination of saplings into dried harvested plants reduces the value of the crop significantly. The economic loss incurred by crop farmers highlights the importance of wild fowl, in particular Egyptian Geese, as a renewable, sustainable, resource for revenue compensation.

Key words: crop farming, economics, Egyptian Geese, sustainable resource

 

Research Centre for African Parrot Conservation, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa, e-mail maphasa@zoology.unp.ac.za

Maphasa, L. & Perrin, M.R. 1998. Parrots in South Africa: their trade, conservation & utilisation. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 439.

Parrot trade in South Africa is very substantial and amounts to millions of US dollars a year. Most African parrots in South Africa are either caught from the wild and bred in captivity or obtained from other African countries. KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces account for about 70% of the parrot trade taking place in South Africa. There is evidence that most parrots imported from other African countries to South Africa are illegally imported. To make matters worse, the parrot trade in South Africa does not benefit any local people or rural areas where most parrots are found. Attaching no value to the parrots, people in the rural areas continue to cut down forests for firewood thus destroying the valuable habitats for parrots. Habitat degradation (e.g. deforestation) and trade thus pose the major threat to South African parrots. Environmental education and the involvement of local people or people living in rural areas in the parrot trade have in some cases helped to change their attitudes towards parrots and the parrot trade.

Key words: trade, habitat degradation, environmental education

 

South African Crane Working Group, Endangered Wildlife Trust, Private Bag X11, Parkview, 2122, South Africa, e-mail mccrane@iafrica.com

McCann, K.I. 1998. The South African Crane Working Group and National Crane Conservation Project. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 440.

The South African Crane Working Group (SACWG) was formed in 1995 and is a working group of the Endangered Wildlife Trust. This group, together with the National Crane Conservation Project (NCCP), has the mission "to ensure the long term survival of cranes and their habitats". It is a national body whose aim is to co-ordinate and initiate crane conservation efforts in South Africa. The SACWG has developed a National Crane Habitat and Action Plan to act as a guideline for crane conservation. The projects of the SACWG include the initiation of a country wide education and awareness programme, habitat protection and legislation, research and monitoring through the NCCP (including movement studies utilising satellite telemetry and colour ringing), the establishment of a national crane database, and a captive breeding programme for Wattled Cranes Bugeranus carunculatus. This should all lead to the reduction in the threats to the three South African crane species and their successful conservation. Communication links are encouraged between local interest groups within South Africa and with international affiliates via the newsletter "CRANE LINK". It is essential that the efforts and expertise available within the network of the SACWG be disseminated to interested parties in crane and crane related conservation issues.

Key words: crane conservation, non-government organisation, Endangered Wildlife Trust, South African Crane Working Group, National Crane Conservation Project.

 

EWT / Eskom National Crane Conservation Project, P.O. Box 1047, Mooi River, 3300, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, e-mail mccrane@iafrica.com

McCann, K.I. & Ronchini, S. 1998. An integrated management plan for Wattled Cranes Bugeranus carunculatus in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 440.

The Wattled Crane Bugeranus carunculatus has been listed as "Critically Endangered" in the latest IUCN / SSC Crane Specialist Group publication, "The Cranes: Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan". Most of the threats cranes encounter reflect their utilisation of man-modified environments. The key to their survival is their ability to adapt to these man-modified conditions. Cranes therefore require a certain degree of management to allow them to co-exist with human developments. The objective of the study was to develop a GIS based model of the relationships between land use in KwaZulu-Natal and breeding success of the Wattled Crane population, relating this to the different threats linked to each habitat type (or land use), e.g. loss of grassland habitat to afforestation or poisonings in agricultural lands. Three years of intensive observational data of Wattled Cranes within KwaZulu-Natal was utilised for this model, together with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s South African national land-cover database to develop an integrated management plan for Wattled Cranes in KwaZulu-Natal, supplying recommendations for their successful conservation.

Key words: Wattled Crane, GIS model, integrated management, crane conservation.

 

1EWT / Eskom National Crane Conservation Project, Endangered Wildlife Trust, PO Box 1047, Mooi River, 3300, South Africa, e-mail mccrane@iafrica.com; ² Southern African Crane Foundation, PO Box 115, Mooi River, 3300, South Africa.

McCann, K.I. & Wilkins, H.J. 1998. Route selection for a 400kV powerline that least impacts the Kwazulu-Natal crane populations. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 441.

Powerlines are known to affect bird species through electrocutions, flight pattern disruptions and collisions. Gaining an understanding of bird / powerline interactions is needed in order to establish important information for route planning and design criteria of powerlines. South Africa’s three crane species, the Blue Anthropoides paradiseus, Crowned Balearica regulorum and Wattled Cranes Bugeranus carunculatus fall into the group of birds, being large-bodied with slow flight and limited manoeuvrability, which are negatively impacted by powerlines. Eskom, South Africa’s largest electricity supply company, initiated an Environmental Impact Assessment in 1994 to select a route for the new Ariadne-Venus 400 kV powerline between Estcourt and Pietermartizburg in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands, which would least impact the threatened crane species. Detailed observational data, breeding site location, mortality analysis, and the determination of movement patterns and home ranges of the populations of all three species of crane in the KwaZulu-Natal midlands resulted in route selection for the Ariadne-Venus 400 kV powerline. Route D of the eight potential routes (named A through H) was selected which least impacts the crane species, especially the Wattled Crane

Key words: environmental interactions, Eskom, powerlines, crane collisions, powerline route selection, South Africa

 

1Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociencias, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil, e-mail cymiyaki@usp.br; ²Projeto Arara-azul, Campo Grande, MT, Brazil

Miyaki, C.Y., Guedes, N.M.R. & Wajntal, A. 1998. DNA fingerprinting in a wild population of the endangered Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 441.

The Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) is an endangered parrot. A population in the Pantanal (Brazil) has been monitored by Neiva M.R. Guedes for six years. We applied DNA fingerprinting on 56 chicks born in four reproductive seasons. Some bands detected by the minisatellite probe 33.6 are present in all chicks and may constitute markers for this population. This is important for reintroduction purposes. When these bands are included in the analysis, the mean similarity index (SI) between unrelated birds is 0.40, but when they are excluded, it is 0.28, close to the value found with probe 33.15. Female linked bands detected by probe 33.15 indicated a sex ratio of 1:1 among the nestlings. The SI between chicks of the same nest is higher than among chicks of different nests, suggesting that the former birds are more related, possibly siblings. The SI among chicks belonging to nests in close vicinity is similar to that among chicks from nests farther away. These results support field observations that Hyacinth Macaws are monogamous and probably do not have extra-pair fertilisation. This study was supported by FAPESP, CNPq

Key words: Hyacinth Macaw, endangered species, DNA fingerprinting, conservation, genetic variability

 

Mlingwa, C. & Mlingwa, L. 1998. Ecology of the East Coast Akalat Sheppardia gunningi in Tanzania. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 441.

The East Coast Akalat Sheppardia gunningi is a globally threatened species. Its ecology, however, is poorly known in many areas where it occurs. From January to March 1993 and between June 1994 and May 1995 in the Pugu Hills, Tanzania, we carried out a ringing study in order to determine the species habitat preference. We also examined breeding conditions and primary moult of trapped birds. The Akalats were almost restricted to primary forest throughout the year. Adult birds with brood patches were recorded from November to February with a peak (87%, n = 8) in December. Primary moult occurred between January and June, with a peak (100%, n = 2) in March. The findings indicate the necessity of preserving primary forest for effective conservation of the species. The Akalats seem to avoid the April-May heavy rainy period for breeding, but also avoid the June-September long dry season for primary feather replacement. The reason for such a breeding-moult strategy is not yet well known in the study area. However, avoiding the long dry season could be related to reduced food supply.

Key words: habitat preference, breeding, moult, Pugu Hills, Tanzania

 

1Department of Wildlife, PO Box 131, Gabarone, Botswana; ²South Dakota State University, Brookings, USA; ³Department of Zoology, Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, Potchefstroom, South Africa

Motalaote, S., Flake, L.D. & Bouwman, H. 1998. Nesting and boat disturbance of colonial nesting birds in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 442.

Colonial waterbirds in the Okavango Delta (Botswana) have been subjected to different forms of human disturbances, including motor boats. African Spoonbills Platalea alba, Reed Cormorants Phalacrocorax africanus, Purple Herons Ardea purpurea and others were studied using a modified Mayfield method. Purple Herons seemed to be more vulnerable, using flush rates with motor boats. Continued monitoring is recommended.

Key words: disturbance, colonial birds, Okavango, nesting, Ardea purpurea

 

Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa, e-mail pryan@uctvms.uct.ac.za

Nel, D.C., Hurford, J. & Ryan, P.G. 1998. Why is there sex-biased mortality of seabirds in the Prince Edward Island Toothfish fishery? In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 442.

Longline fisheries have attracted considerable attention in recent years for their impact on seabird populations. Large numbers of seabirds are killed when they attempt to scavenge bait during longline setting. Hooks and other debris scavenged by breeding birds also are fed to chicks, often causing chick deaths. These impacts are sufficient to account for observed declines in several seabird breeding populations. Longline fishing for Patagonian Toothfish Dissostichus eleginoides commenced around the Prince Edward Islands during 1996. During the first year of fishing operations, observers aboard vessels fishing under permit in these waters reported more than 900 birds killed, and given the large illegal fishery, total numbers killed was probably between 4000 and 12000 birds. Three of the most commonly killed species exhibited a strong male bias throughout the breeding season: White-chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis (83% male), Grey-headed Mollymawk Thalassarche chrysostoma (86%) and Yellow-nosed Mollymawk T. chlororhynchos (79%). Almost all birds of these species killed were breeding adults. These results contrast with the female-biased mortality reported by other longline fisheries, operating at sites distant from breeding islands. We explore the reasons for the male-biased mortality of seabirds on longlines at the Prince Edward Islands.

Key words: longline fishing, procellariiforms, bycatch, mortality, sub-Antarctic

 

KLIVV, Savoyenstr. 1a, A-1160 Vienna, Austria, e-mail E.Nemeth@klivv.oeaw.ac.at

Nemeth, E., Dvorak, M. & Busse, K. 1998. Estimating bird densities with infrared-aerial photographs. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 443.

Accurate distribution data are essential for species conservation. These data are particularly hard to obtain in large areas of difficult terrain, like marshes or mountains. We estimated distribution, density and population size of six bird species (Porzana parva, Rallus aquaticus, Acrocephalus melanopogon, A. scirpaceus, Locustella luscinioides and Emberiza schoeniclus) in an extensive reedbed at Lake Neusiedl (area 14.2 km²) in eastern Austria. We used point counts and quantified habitats by direct ground measurements and infrared-aerial photos. These data sets were analysed using step-wise multiple regression analyses. Significant relationships between variables of the aerial photographs and the abundance of single species were taken to predict their occurrence for the whole study area and enabled the calculations of total population sizes. Species distribution was plotted on maps based on a 4-ha grid. Additionally for Locustella luscinioides, all territories could be mapped in the study area, here the real distribution matched well with the predicted one. This technique is especially suitable for estimating bird numbers in large areas of relatively homogenous habitats like reedbeds and it will be used in future monitoring programs.

Key words: reedbed, infrared photographs, population estimates

 

Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, C.P. 257, Maputo, Mozambique, e-mail Fred@fredpat.uem.mz

Nhancale, C., Bento, C.M. & de Boer, W.F. 1998. The impact of the House Crow Corvus splendens on Inhaca Island, Mozambique. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 443.

The House Crow Corvus splendens is an exotic species on Inhaca Island, Mozambique. It has been introduced in the 1960’s and the population is increasing steadily. Although several unsuccessful eradication projects have already been carried out, little is known about the impact the House Crows have on the human population and the local avifauna. This study is aimed at describing the ecology of the House Crow. Questionnaires and open discussions (using PRA methodology) have been carried out with the local human population in order to investigate the impact the crow has on the Island. Interactions of the crows with other bird species have been registered. The distribution, abundance and habitat choice of the bird has been studied using synchronous counts at different locations. Detailed observations of behaviour and food choice have been made with a portable data recorder. Nesting behaviour and preferred nesting sites have been quantified. Several suitable methods of eradication have been tried in pilot studies. The study aims at making a cost-benefit analysis of a future eradication project: is it worthwhile and desirable to initiate a new eradication programme and can this been justified with the study results?

Key words: distribution, habitat, behaviour, diet

 

1The RSPB, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, UK, e-mail Debbie.Pain@RSPB.ORG.UK; ²20 rue Belliaud, F-17370 Saint-Trojan les Bains, France; ³ Le Marais aux Oiseaux, F-17550 Dolus-d’Oleron, France

Pain, D.J., Burneleau, G. & Bavoux, C. 1998. Potential impact of environmental contaminants upon a marsh harrier Circus aeruginosus population from Charente-Maritime, France. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 444.

A resident population of marsh harriers has been studied at l’ile d’Oleron since 1982. Following a peak in 1988, breeding numbers declined dramatically. The average number of young fledged has fluctuated widely since 1988. Studies were initiated to investigate factors influencing breeding success and survival. During spring 1994 we collected 13 addled eggs from 11 clutches to determine whether organochlorine and metal concentrations were within ranges known to influence hatching success in other bird species. PCB concentrations fell within this range (8 to 25 ppm wet weight) in the eggs of two clutches. Marsh harriers are susceptible to lead poisoning through the ingestion of gunshot carried in the flesh of unretrieved game. Between the winters of 1990/91 and 1995/96, 131 marsh harriers were trapped, and blood samples taken for lead analysis. Birds were marked using wing tags, and subsequent sightings recorded for survival analysis. Blood lead concentrations were elevated (>30 ug/dl) in 35% of birds and indicative of clinical lead poisoning (>60 ug/dl) in 22%. Preliminary results suggest that environmental contaminants, acting at different stages of the life cycle, may have contributed to the decline of this resident marsh harrier population.

Key words: marsh harriers, contaminants, France

 

Proyecto de Conservacion de Punta San Juan, Wildlife Conservation Society, Av. Armendariz 445, Lima, Peru, e-mail fambat@amauta.rcp.net.pe

Paredes, R. & Zavalaga, C.B. 1998. Artificial nests as an alternative to increase availability of nesting habitat for Humboldt Penguins. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 444.

The reduction of nesting habitat is one of the main causes for the decline of Humboldt Penguin Spheniscus humboldti population in Peru. We tested the use of artificial covered nests to increase the availability and quality of nesting sites at Punta San Juan, Peru. Between February 1996 and February 1997, breeding success of 30 artificial concrete nests was compared to a similar number of natural burrows and open-scrapes in the same colony. Also, the behaviour of penguins at each nest type was recorded in order to determine the underlying causes of any observed differences. Annual breeding success of artificial nests was similar (1.27 fledglings/clutch/nest, n=63) to that of natural burrows (1.28 fledglings/clutch/nest, n=65) and significantly higher than that of open-scrapes (1.03 fledglings/clutch/nest, n=147). Penguins in open-scrapes were more affected by gull predation, heat stress and pelican aggression than those in burrows and artificial nests. Artificial concrete nests have shown to be useful for breeding wild Humboldt Penguins. Their use on a large scale in low quality areas may help increase not only nesting availability but also breeding success.

Key words: nest types, predation, thermoregulation, breeding success, Peru, Spheniscus humboldti

 

Zoologisches Museum, Universitat Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, CH-8057 Zürich, Switzerland, e-mail gpasi@zoolmus.unizh.ch

Pasinelli, G. 1998. Effects of habitat structures on home range size and breeding success of the Middle Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos medius. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 445.

The endangered Middle Spotted Woodpecker is restricted to mature deciduous forests rich in oaks Quercus sp. Such habitats are rapidly disappearing due to inappropriate forest management. The relationship between habitat factors, home range size and breeding success was investigated during a five-year study on 33 radio-tracked birds. The results of multivariate analyses suggest that proportion of old oaks in a forest is crucial for the conservation of the Middle Spotted Woodpecker. Therefore, a long-term management of moderately harvested forests with old oaks is required to prevent this species becoming extinct.

Key words: radio-tracking, oak forest, habitat structure, conservation, Middle Spotted Woodpecker

 

Institute for Zoology and Limnology, Technikerstrasse 25, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria, e-mail Karin.Pegoraro@uibk.ac.at

Pegoraro, K. & Föger, M. 1998. Conservation biology of Bald and Waldrapp Ibis Geronticus calvus, G. eremita: A comparison. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 445.

Both species of the genus Geronticus are listed in the IUCN Red List and the World List of Threatened Birds. The Bald Ibis is classified as vulnerable and still occurs in respectable numbers (approximately 10000 individuals in the late 1980s) in South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. In contrast, the conservation status of the Waldrapp Ibis is critical. The latter species is in long-term decline throughout its range. Morocco holds the last breeding population, which is well below 100 breeding pairs. The reasons for the negative trend are mostly attributable to human influence. Ethological features may also have contributed to the rapid population decline. We present data on the ecology and breeding biology of the Waldrapp Ibis obtained during seven field trips, between 1984 and 1994, to the meanwhile extinct wild population in Turkey and to the last breeding areas in Morocco (financed by Sparkasse Innsbruck/Tyrol, Messerli-Stiftung, Alpenzoo Innsbruck and the German Ornithologist’s Society). We compare these findings to similar data published for the Bald Ibis. Special emphasis is given to the question how species-specific factors (e.g. habitat selection, flexibility of behaviour) may contribute to the different conservation status of these ibises.

Key words: Bald Ibis, Waldrapp Ibis, Geronticus, conservation biology, biological reasons for decline

Research Centre for African Parrot Conservation, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa, e-mail perrin@zoology.unp.ac.za

Perrin, M.R., Selman, R.G. & Hunter, M.L. 1998. The ecology of the Rüppels Parrot Poicephalus rüeppelli. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 446.

Future management decisions regarding Rüppells Parrots, a near endemic to Namibia, requires knowledge of their dietary, water and breeding requirements, and a study of the illegal trade in this species. Extensive surveys have revealed more than 20 nesting sites; clutches range between three to five eggs and zero to five young per nest are fledged during the dry winter period. Mating occurs in the summer-wet season, possibly suggesting that summer rains trigger reproduction in this arid ecosystem. Nest predation by snakes, monitor lizards, bush babies and mongooses is heavy and goshawks attack adult birds at waterholes. No territory is defended and no helpers are seen at the nest. More than 25 plant species occur in the diet which varies between areas and seasons. Fruits of Acacias and Commiphoras are eaten regularly, and are supplemented with flowers, leaf buds and nectar. Rüppells roost in well-foliated trees of the genus Ficus, and one communal roost has been discovered. Interviews with officials in government, farmers and aviculturalists have provided a body of information regarding the illegal trade. Conservation requires changes in the law, improved law enforcement, and increased awareness locally and overseas. However, without a knowledge of either the scale of the trade or the basic species ecology, no management plan can be produced.

Key words: reproduction, diet, conservation

 

Department of Conservation, PO Box 842, Whangarei, New Zealand, e-mail 100244.1012@compuserve.com

Pierce, R.J. 1998. The impact of Kiore Rattus exulans on two small seabird species on New Zealand islands. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 446.

Eradication of Kiore from New Zealand islands has been opposed by some people, partly because there is limited scientific data on the impacts of this species of rat. The Chicken Islands support Kiore populations and also small populations of two burrow-nesting seabirds, the summer-breeding Pycroft's Petrel Pterodroma pycrofti and winter-breeding Little Shearwater Puffinus assimilis haurakiensis. The sequential eradication, of Kiore from the Chickens Islands provided an opportunity to measure the responses of these seabirds to rat removal. Two study islands were used to test the following hypotheses: (1) Breeding success of small seabirds is not limited by Kiore presence, (2) Breeding success is not limited by the presence of Tuatara Sphenodon punctatus (Spenodontia) an endemic reptile. (3) The two seabird species are not in competition with each other. Study burrows were checked early and late in the breeding seasons to determine productivity. This was significantly lower on islands containing Kiore, with almost total failure in some years. On Kiore-free islands, productivity was not significantly different between burrows regularly used by Tuatara and those not used by Tuatara. Little competition presently occurs between the two seabird species. These findings demonstrate clear negative impacts of Kiore on these small seabird species.

Key words: Pterodroma pycrofti, Puffinus assimilis haurakiensis, productivity, breeding, competition

 

Percy FitzPatrick Institue, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa, e-mail n/a.-.in.the.field@Shrike.und.ac.za

Ratcliffe, C.S. & Crowe, T.M. 1998. Decline of Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris in KwaZulu-Natal: habitat utilisation, agrochemicals and diseases. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 447.

Helmeted guineafowl Numida meleagris populations have declined significantly within the KwaZulu-Natal midlands, South Africa. Habitat use within areas of intensive agriculture was investigated using radiotelemetry to identify habitat constraints that may have resulted in declining guineafowl populations. Study sites represented an array of habitats supporting by a range of population densities of guineafowl. In addition, agrochemicals (pesticides and herbicides) and diseases were assayed from tissue and blood samples from shot birds. Land-use changes, primarily from crop and pasture farming, are largely responsible for observed declines in guineafowl numbers. Diseases and pesticides are important in small and/or isolated populations and may well contribute to declines at a local rather than a regional scale. Through the creation of suitable habitat a matrix of land-use types, supporting an array of cereal and pasture lands, is recommended to revive guineafowl populations.

Key words: agriculture, population, conservation, home-range, pesticides

Department of Entomology and Animal Ecology, Lincoln University, P.O. Box 84, Canterbury, New Zealand

Schmechel, F.A. 1998. Mixing paradigms: Combining data and theory to conserve an endangered wader. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 449.

The Chatham Island Oystercatcher Haematopus chathamensis is among the world’s rarest birds (100 to 120 individuals). Endemic to the Chatham Islands, New Zealand, 70 - 80% of pairs breed on two inhabited islands, both heavily modified through habitat changes and the introduction of predators. Productivity and habitat use data were collected over three years. Productivity varied considerably between years (range 0.13 - 0.71 fledges/pair). Territories were assigned habitat types although historically they were thought to be rocky shore specialists. Pairs using habitats classified as sandy beach areas were more successful fledging chicks than pairs using other habitat types (1.1 fledges/pair/year vs. 0.3 fledges/pair/year). No historic population estimates are available upon which to base recovery goals. An alternative approach has been proposed based on population modelling and minimum viable population theory, plus monitoring population characteristics to set recovery goals.

Key words: endangered species, shorebird, Haenotopus chathamensis, Chatham Islands, modelling

 

Berchtesgaden Nationalpark, Doktorberg 6, D - 83471 Berchtesgaden, Germany, e-mail 100767.504@Compuserve.COM

Schuster, A. 1998. Application of spatial distribution data on endangered bird species for the calculation of conservational values. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 449.

In nature conservation, especially concerning the declaration of conservation areas, the evaluation of the occurrence of species groups or red data book species is of major concern. Several evaluation models, most of them based on a point system, have been applied in Europe. A new system using red data book bird species as evaluation indicators has been developed for the management plan of the Berchtesgaden National Park. By analysing species distribution maps and attaching rating-points corresponding to the red data book status, a spatial distribution of the conservation value of areas has been acquired.

Key words: distribution models, endangered species, conservation, GIS

 

Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, e-mail cagan@hotmail.com

Sekercioglu, C.H. 1998. The effects of forestry practices on the vegetation structure and bird communities of an Afrotropical forest. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 449.

The effects of past selective logging and timber management practices on the vegetation structure and forest bird communities of a medium-altitude, moist, tropical evergreen forest in the Kibale Forest National Park in western Uganda were analysed. The hypothesis that long-term decreases in vegetational structural diversity and forest bird diversity take place in conifer plantations and in areas that had been selectively-logged at a high density was tested. Canopy cover, size distribution of trees, and horizontal and vertical spacing of vegetation were measured. Mist netting and fixed-area censuses of birds were conducted. Compared with the other sites, the plantation had reduced tree size diversity and lower levels of recruitment and the heavily-logged site exhibited significantly less canopy cover and reduced average tree size, both sites having decreased vegetational structural diversity. The plantation had low overall and forest-specific bird species diversity and there was an inverse correlation between forest-specific bird diversity and the density of past selective logging between sites. There was a significant correlation between the amount of vegetation in the upper forest layers and increased representation of primary forest guild species. An index taking into consideration tree size diversity, canopy cover, and horizontal and vertical diversity of vegetation distribution correlated significantly with the number of primary forest species observed at each site.

Key words: community diversity, patchiness, selective logging, tropical conservation

 

Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Taipeh, Taiwan, 11529, e-mail zolls@ccvax.sinica.edu.tw

Severinghaus, L.L. 1998. Religious bird releases and the extinction of Styan's Bulbul Pycnonotus taivanus. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 450.

Religious-bird-releases are activities organised by temples to commemorate special days when people buy wild birds from dealers and release them. In Taiwan the number of temples has greatly increased in the last 10 years, so has the frequency and distribution of such bird releases. Since the discovery of the first few Chinese Bulbul P. sinensis Styan's Bulbul hybrids in early 1970's where their ranges overlapped, the increase of hybrids in the wild has been accelerated by religious-bird-releases, which create new hybrid epicentres. Chinese Bulbuls are now found in many locations in eastern and southern Taiwan and areas with pure Styan's Bulbul are getting rare, while Chinese Bulbuls on the north and west do not seem affected. The Styan's Bulbul may disappear in 20 years through genetic swamping by Chinese Bulbuls. If conservation of Styan's Bulbul is desired, workable recommendations must be made to Taiwan Government soon. Options are: (1) Creating a Styan's Bulbul refuge, with strictly enforced buffer zones from which all Chinese Bulbuls and hybrids are removed. (2) Creating a Styan's Bulbul gene bank by enlisting zoos and aviaries to maintain breeding stocks. The management of these "subpopulations" must be co-ordinated and closely monitored. Both options have serious difficulties. The international ornithological community is urgently invited to contribute wisdom to the long term future of the Styan's Bulbuls.

Key words: conservation, Styans’s Bulbul, Pycnonotus taivanus, Taiwan

 

Air Force Research Laboratory, Vehicle Subsystems Division, 2130 Eighth St. Suite 1, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, 45433-7542 USA, e-mail jeffrey.short@em.doe.gov

Short, J.J. 1998. Availability of an annotated bibliography of bird hazards to aircraft (ABBHA). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 450.

Reinvention of the wheel can be costly, time consuming, or in the case of a solution to a bird hazard problem to aircraft, catastrophic. Over the past thirty years, much progress has been made to address the problem posed by birds to aircraft by the military, the aerospace industry, and international working groups. In an effort to "jump start" researchers with bird hazard problems, the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory has consolidated into a single document a significant portion of the literature on bird-aircraft interactions. This annotated bibliography of bird hazards to aircraft, termed ABBHA, brings together over 1100 citations with abstracts on a wide range of related topics such as birdstrike tolerance engineering, bird hazard management and control, birdstrike avoidance, and bird remains identification. Citations included in ABBHA include working papers published in the proceedings of the Bird Strike Committees of Europe, Canada and the United States, studies published in scientific journals, books on bird hazards, findings of international flight safety organisations, technical papers from the aviation industry, and research reports found in reference collections such as those maintained by national information services. ABBHA is available electronically and can be used with various word processing or bibliographic software. Computerisation of the ABBHA reduces distribution costs, allows for frequent updates, and helps users to locate references on topics of interest through the use of keyword "searches". Electronic copies of ABBHA can be obtained without charge and will be available at appropriate INTERNET sites.

Key words: bird control, bird remains, birdstrike engineering, bird avoidance

 

3064 Eutaw Forest Drive, Waldorf Maryland 20603-4047 USA, e-mail jeffrey.short@em.doe.gov

Short, J.J & Kelley, M.E. 1998. Recent United States air force research into birdstrike prevention. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 451.

Over 3000 birdstrikes to U.S. Air Force aircraft each year average US$ 50-80 million in damage. It is estimated that birds cost the world-wide aviation fleet more that US$ 1 billion per year. In the aftermath of recent birdstrike tragedies, the Air Force is accelerating its search for technologies to prevent serious birdstrikes. Through the integration of bioscience and aeroscience disciplines, new technologies are emerging for use in reducing bird-aircraft interactions: (1) Acoustics research on the active projection of sound through modulated microwave signals and other means to disperse birds from the flightpath. (2) Passive infrared sensor systems to locate bird ‘intruders’ on airfields. (3) North American bird avoidance modelling through geographic information system-based risk assessments. (4) ‘Real-time’ warnings for aircrews using ground-based or airborne radar systems. These studies are investigating many basic aspects of avian morphology, physiology, behaviour and distribution as well as rethinking many basic engineering approaches. This research is being accomplished through co-operative efforts between the United States Departments of Defence, Agriculture, and Transportation, members of the aerospace industry, international flight safety organisations, and academia.

Key words: birdstrike, acoustics, microwaves, migration, sensors

 

1Air Force Research Laboratory, Vehicle Subsystems Division, 2130 Eighth St. Suite 1, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, 45433-7542 USA, jeffrey.short@em.doe.gov, ²U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ohio Field Station, 2100 Columbus Ave., Sandusky, Ohio 44870-9071, USA

Short, J.J. & Seamans, T.W. 1998. Development of artificial birds for birdstrike tolerance testing. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 451.

Aircraft are certified to tolerate a variety of environmental hazards including bird impact. Because of their availability, chickens are usually the bird of choice to provide impact certification; but, with the advent of increasingly stringent testing standards which will need larger birds, the requirement for a "standard" bird is being readdressed. Bird "slice" density data of intact birds was acquired using medical diagnostic equipment at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base hospital, Ohio. Non-invasive topographic imaging allows the electronic mapping of the location and orientation of internal body tissues in the intact bird. Internal tissue mapping was performed on twelve species of birds using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and two species of birds using computerised topography (CT). MRI data was combined with dissected tissue density measurements that can be reconstructed in three-dimensions as a "virtual" bird. The virtual bird provides the input data for computer modelling of birdstrike impact forces during the design phase which can significantly reduce costs. CT data provides greater detail and the image greyscale intensity actually represents relative tissue densities making it possible to eliminate the gross dissection step. This research may lead to the development of an improved, "artificial bird", with a density configuration nearly identical to a real bird, for use in aircraft component certification testing.

Key words: birdstrikes, body density, MRI/CT-scan, artificial bird, certification tests

 

Ornithology Department, National Museums of Kenya, P.O. Box 40658, Nairobi, Kenya, e-mail kbirds@users.africaonline.co.ke

Simiyu, A. 1998. Some aspects of demography and movement patterns of sandgrouse in southern Kenya. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 452.

Sandgrouse Pterocles sp. are potentially an economically important gamebird group in Kenya for commercial hunting. While this activity has been going on for many years, no studies on their populations and movement patterns have been carried out here. This study investigated the abundance, breeding seasonality and movement patterns of Chestnut-Bellied Pterocles exustus and Black-Faced Pterocles decoratus Sandgrouse at six watering sites, during two 'dry' seasons between October 1996 and March 1997. The number of birds using different water points and proportion of species was found to be different. Circumference of water point was found to have a significant influence on the number of Chestnut-Bellied Sandgrouse using it. However, cover did not have any effect on the number of birds. Overall site fidelity was 55% but differed considerably at each site. No evidence of breeding was found during the study period. Mark - resight data suggests between a quarter and one sixth of the population drinks on a single day. Choice of water point may be related to the shortest distance to preferred habitat with the greatest interchange of birds between contiguous points. I recommend the hunting of the birds late in the second dry season in a year and possibly during the first season and sessions rotated at points at least 20 kilometres apart.

Key words: sandgrouse, waterpoints, Kenya

 

Seccion Zoologia-Vertebrados, Facultad de Ciencias, Tristán Narvaja 1474, Montevideo, C.P.: 11200, Uruguay, e-mail bentos@genetica.edu.uy

Stagi, A., Vaz-Ferreira, R., Loinaz, I. & Bianco, J. 1998. Construction and architecture of the nest of the Hornero Furnarius rufus rufus. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 452.

The Hornero's nest is made of mud mixed with straw. Both members of the pair collect nest material. The material is transported only in the beak in loads of 2 to 10 g of wet mud. The material is arranged by the placement and flattening in succesive layers above the solid substrate. The layers are 5 to 20 mm thick and deposited first in the horizontal plane and then progressively higher up towards what will be the posterior pole of the nest. The successive layers are evident from the concentric striae on the outside surface of the nest. After polishing the interior, a lining is placed on the lower part of the breeding chamber. In the finished nest one finds: (1) Over the substrate a basement, which varies notably in weight and configuration according to the shape of the substrate. (2) Walls and a roof shaped into a dome, which is interrupted at the level of the entrance on the outside of the nest and continues towards the rear in the form of a partition. (3) An elliptical entrance. (4) A partition which separates the entrance from the nest chamber. (5) Opening of the entrance to the chamber. (6) A breeding chamber, which has a floor of mud often absent, and (7) the lining.

Key words: behaviour, nesting, mud, structure, substrate

 

Faculty of Forestry, Czech University of Agriculture, Kamýcká 129, CZ-16521 Prague 6 - Suchdol, Czech Republic, e-mail Stastny@lf.czu.cz

Stastny, K. & Bejcek, V. 1998. Succession of bird communities in forests affected by industrial emissions in Europe's "Black Triangle". In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 452.

The term "Black Triangle" of Europe refers to its most heavily polluted part between the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany. The emissions exert the heaviest impact on woodlands in the Krušné hory mountains. Here, coniferous forests were completely destroyed in the course of the past 20 to 25 years. The succession of bird communities was studied in 14 successional stages of forests using standard mapping methods. The qualitative, quantitative and structural characteristics (number of species, density, species diversity, evenness) show the same trends both in mature (40 to 80 years old) stands of Norway Spruce Picea abies and in young (10-15 years old) stands of the same spruce species. They fall sharply from relatively healthy spruce forest of various ages through the heavily damaged ones to the totally dead stands without branches. On the other hand they increase from the clearings to freshly afforested areas to young stands of European Birch Betula alba, European Larch Larix decidua, Norway and Blue Spruce Picea pungens and Dwarf Pine Pinus mugo, the tree species used for the economic restoration of forests in the Krušné hory Mountains. Two patterns were investigated: decrease of forest birds and increase of open habitat species. The study was supported by the grants of the Grant Agency of the Czech Republic Nos. 206/97/0771 and 206/97/0850.

Key words: bird communities, succession, emissions, damaged forests, Europe's "Black triangle"

 

BirdLife International, Wellbrook Court, Girton Road, Cambridge, CB3 0NA, UK, e-mail ali.statt@birdlife.org.uk

Stattersfield, A.J. & Bibby, C.J. 1998. Conservation of globally threatened species. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 453.

About 12% of all birds are threatened with extinction following IUCN criteria. In its global Birds to Watch programme, BirdLife seeks to: improve awareness of this manifestation of the global biodiversity crisis; support and develop the network of ornithologists who pool and improve knowledge of these species; and disseminate information to assist governments and others to better conserve birds and their habitats. A comprehensive re-evaluation of the status of the world's birds is now in progress. New information relating to ranges, ecology, population numbers and trends, threats, and conservation initiatives is being sought. For all threatened species, distribution maps are being compiled to facilitate GIS-based integration with other data, and targets are being set for the actions most needed to improve their status. More than 75% of all threatened birds occur in Endemic Bird Areas which occupy less than 10% of the Earth's land surface. Most EBAs include the majority of known centres of endemism for terrestrial biodiversity which have been (qualitatively) described. The 25% of threatened bird species with larger distributions are mainly larger species which are susceptible to exploitation or habitat modification. Information on the status of birds can be used to establish global indicators of biodiversity trends and the response to identified conservation needs.

Key words: threatened species, extinction rates, endemic bird areas, biodiversity indicators

Department of Ecology, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand, e-mail b.m.stephenson@massey.ac.nz

Stephenson, B.M. & Minot, E.O. 1998. Secondary poisoning of small owls during rodent eradication. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 453.

The widespread use of rodenticides, such as the second-generation anticoagulant Brodifacoum, has been a growing cause for concern. New Zealand has been one of the world leaders in the eradication of introduced rodents using these poisons. Brodifacoum accumulates in the rodent’s body and is slow acting. Sublethal doses may take several months to detoxify within the body. Birds of prey are subject to secondary poisoning from eating poisoned rodents. We studied this in Morepork Ninox novaeseelandiae, a small native owl. We fitted 16 transmitters to Morepork before a poison operation designed to eradicate mice from a 135 ha island. We monitored 14 birds daily for two weeks following the poison drop, with follow up monitoring five weeks later. Three birds died following the poisoning operation. It was found that one of these contained a lethal dose of Brodifacoum (1.1 mg/kg liver tissue). Another unmonitored bird was also found dead with a lethal dose (0.97 mg/kg). Thus, three out of the 14 monitored birds died almost certainly from secondary poisoning. Secondary poisoning is a real threat to Morepork. Further work, however, needs to be conducted to consider the full extent of these effects on the birds’ ecology.

Key words: Brodifacoum , owl, secondary poisoning

 

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, PO Box 1379, Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia, e-mail t.stokes@gbrmpa.gov.au

Stokes, T. 1998. Integrating research, monitoring and management of seabirds in the Great Barrier Reef and adjacent waters. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 454.

The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is the largest coral reef system in the world, stretching more than 2000 km along the Australian east coast. It contains over 1000 islands and cays, with about 100 being regularly used by seabirds for breeding. Most of the GBR Region comprises marine and island national parks. The marine park provides for multiple use with the main activities comprising tourism, fishing, recreation and shipping. There is considerable population growth and agricultural and industrial development in coastal areas. Tourism, recreation and fishing are also growing rapidly. Management of seabirds in the Region is a complex and difficult challenge. Monitoring has shown that populations of certain species (Common Noddy Anous stolidus, Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata, Crested Tern Sterna bergii) are declining on Michaelmas Cay, a major tourist island, as well as Brown Boobies Sula leucogaster on the Swains Reefs. By contrast, populations of Black Noddies Anous minutus and Wedge-tailed Shearwaters Puffinus pacificus have increased substantially on Heron Island, a resort cay. Three government management agencies now co-ordinate with scientists and stakeholder interest groups to enhance research and monitoring programs on the GBR and in the adjacent Coral Sea Islands Territories. This paper will outline various strategies by which seabirds are managed in the Region, and the mechanisms by which research, monitoring and management are being integrated.

Key words: Great Barrier Reef, Australia, conservation, biodiversity, seabirds

 

Avian Science and Conservation Centre, Macdonald Campus of McGill University, 21111 Lakeshore, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, PQ H9X 3V9, Canada, e-mail pthoma2@po-box.mcgill.ca

Thomas, P.W. & Bird, D.M. 1998. Effects of low-flying military aircraft on the reproductive output of Osprey Pandion haliaetus. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 454.

The objective of this study is to determine whether low-level flying aircraft affect the reproductive output of Osprey, and if so, to determine the optimal buffer-zone size or setback distance to minimise the effects of these activities. We studied 49 nests in 1995 and 68 nests in 1996, all within the military low-level flying zone in Labrador and Quebec, Canada. Nests were monitored over the duration of the breeding season to determine: occupancy, clutch size, numbers of hatchlings, and 41+ day-old chicks. Each aircraft sortie (flight) was recorded and plotted on the geographic information system (GIS) of the Canadian Department of National Defence. Flight track records were used to derive an index of disturbance at each nest, based on distance from the nest, altitude and frequency, and we used the index to perform a regression analysis against the reproductive parameter of interest. Analyses to date indicate no significant effects. To supplement this analysis, nests were randomly assigned to a buffer-zone radius of either zero, 1.85, 3.7, or to a control of 7.4 km. The reproductive parameters of interest were compared by ANOVA among all groups to test for differences. No significant differences were found.

Key words: Osprey, aircraft, setback distances, GIS, breeding

 

Department of Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, USA, e-mail ubiwt@msu.oscs.montana.edu

Trivelpiece, W.Z. & Trivelpiece, S.G. 1998. The impact of global warming on Antarctica's krill-dependent predator populations. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 455.

Winter temperatures in the Antarctic Peninsula region have increased 4 to 5 °C over the last 50 years, affecting the periodicity of sea ice cover in the region. This climate change, and its associated reduction in winter sea ice cover, has profoundly impacted the Antarctic, krill-based, food web. Here, we present a conceptual model linking variability in sea ice cover to recent declines in krill Euphausia superba and Adélie Penguin Pygoscelis adeliae populations. These results provide the first evidence of a direct causal link between variability in sea ice cover, krill recruitment, prey availability, and predator population changes in the Southern Ocean. We suggest these findings have important implications for the management of the Southern Ocean marine ecosystem.

Key words: Antarctica, global warming, Adélie Penguin, krill

 

Depto. de Zoologia, Universidade de Brasilia, 70910-900, Brasilia, DF, Brazil, e-mail rbrandao@cic.unb.br

Tubelis, D.P. & Cavalcanti, R.B. 1998. Bird communities in gradients of natural and anthropic open habitats in the Cerrado, Brazil. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 455.

In the Cerrado, the largest South American savanna biome, intense anthropic activities affect mainly the cerrado sensu stricto, the dominant habitat. This work examined bird responses to anthropic reduction of tree and shrub cover in plots of cerrado sensu stricto and compared the bird communities of these disturbed plots and those of the more open natural habitats with similar structure. Birds were censused by point counts in 13 plots in disturbed and natural habitats. A total of 340 samples of 20 min were done at 80 points. The loss of species, mainly frugivorous and insectivorous birds, was greater in plots with greater levels of disturbance. In each gradient, the similarity between bird communities of two plots was positively related to similarity in vegetation structure. However, differences in the floristic composition of the herbaceous stratum between natural and altered habitats of similar structure may also affect bird species composition. For example, some species restricted to natural grasslands, such as Cistothorus platensis and Alectrurus tricolor, were absent from disturbed plots, which had habitat generalist birds and were dominated by the granivorous Volatinia jacarina, resulting in lower values of equitability and diversity.

Key words: conservation, Cerrado, communities, point counts, Brazil

 

Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa, e-mail jturpie@botzoo.uct.ac.za

Turpie, J.K. & Ryan, P.G. 1998. The value of birds and birding in South Africa. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 455.

Ecotourism values are increasingly being used to justify the conservation of biodiversity in the face of competition for natural resources due to conventional economic development. Avian biodiversity, the maintenance of which itself relies to a large extent on the conservation of functional ecosystems, provides an ideal starting point with which to measure the ecotourism or recreational values of biodiversity, not least because it is probably one of the most geographically widespread and pervasive of all naturalist persuits. If birding activities can be demonstrated to carry substantial economic value, this could provide important economic justification for avian biodiversity conservation efforts. Using questionnaire survey data, we examine several aspects of the birding industry in South Africa, including the size of the industry, the characteristics of birders and their destinations, the value of the industry and the national and international demand for bird-based ecotourism in South Africa.

Key words: birding, ecotourism, economics

 

Makerere University Institute of Environment and Natural Resources, PO Box 7298, Kampala, Uganda, e-mail muienr@imul.com

Tushabe, H. & Pomeroy, D.E. 1998. Modelling species distributions for conservation planning. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 456.

Despite its small size (220000 km²) and ornithological interest (1010 species), there are many parts of Uganda, including conservation areas, where information on birds is sparse. Yet these areas are increasingly being expected to justify their existence, in terms of revenue generation or high biodiversity value. Since thorough field studies are very expensive, we have generated models to predict which areas have the greatest ornithological importance, and, by implication, overall biodiversity value. The models developed are logical ones, making use of environmental variables such as vegetation, rainfall, altitude and ecological zones. The models were built to extrapolate from known bird distributions, and tested against standard lists for various areas. We have tested the models for two groups of birds - forest specialists and birds of dry areas. On average, the predictions were 90% accurate for regionally threatened forest birds, but only 80% accurate for birds of dry areas. In addition, we have generated probable hotspots within these geographical areas. Based on these results, advice on relative conservation values of different sites can be given with adequate confidence to be of predicted value.

Key words: Africa, biodiversity, simulation, modelling distributions, conservation

 

ARC, Plant Protection Research Institute, Product Development and Application Technology Research Unit (PARU), Private Bag X 134, Pretoria, South Africa, e-mail nipbevdw@plant1.agric.za

Van Der Walt, E., Meinhardt, H.R., Venter, J.A. & Bouwman, H. 1998. Primary and secondary effects of Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea control in South Africa. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 456.

Quelea control operations in South Africa may have severe effects on non-target bird species and the environment. Two control methods are used currently namely aerially applied pesticides and explosions. Application of small pesticide droplets (<90 micron) as a cloud above roosting sites (> 5 m above ground level) create a high off-target drift potential and, may cause contamination over a larger area. Aerially applied pesticides were monitored using surface trapping together with stationary and mobile high volume aerial monitoring systems. Dead raptors were analysed chemically to establish primary and/or secondary poisoning. Explosions were surveyed and samples chemically analysed. Aerial pesticide applications result in unreliable efficacy because of uneven target area coverage. Off-target drift from aerially applied pesticides were detected 3 km from the target site, 20 hours after application. Primary and secondary poisoning were detected in raptors. Explosions are not only three times more expensive than chemical control but could cause high rates of mortality in non-target birds. The utilisation of used pesticide containers during explosions may lead to secondary and tertiary poisoning of non-target animals. Continued research is urgently needed to develop an efficient and effective quelea management system in South Africa.

Key words: Quelea, impact, aerial, explosion, environmental

 

United States Geological Survey FRESC/CPFS & Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86004 USA, e-mail cvr@usgs.nau.edu

van Riper, C. 1998. Disease as a limiting factor to the native bird populations of Hawaii. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 457.

The introduction of diseases into an ecosystem where they have not previously occurred can have a devastating impact on native host populations. The ecosystem and host population size and degree and duration of isolation, coupled with life history characteristics of the invading disease, can all be used to predict the potential impact on native hosts. Hawaii, because of its lengthy physical isolation and many small diverse ecosystems, is an excellent natural laboratory to examine the impact of invading diseases on native host populations. There have been several invasions of new avian diseases to the Hawaiian islands over the past century, with pox virus and malaria resulting in drastic reductions of native bird populations. There is evidence today which suggests that disease is playing a role in limiting numbers and distribution of certain avian species. The role that novel diseases can potentially play has implications for both fundamental and applied aspects of ornithology throughout the world.

Key words: demography, pox, malaria, island

 

Endangered Wildlife Trust, Private Bag X11, Parkview, 2122, South Africa, e-mail chrisewt@global.co.za

Van Rooyen, C.S. & McCann, K.I. 1998. Birds and powerlines: The EWT/Eskom partnership. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 457.

The South African experience with regard to wildlife interactions and electricity structures is (with some notable exceptions) generally characterised by an ad hoc approach, fragmented documentation, inconsistency of data and few "before and after" studies. The vast distances, poor co-ordination and integration of mitigation efforts as well as discontinuity and duplication further exacerbates the problem. Eskom, the South African supplier of electricity, entered into a partnership with the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) to address these problems. An integrated management system was established within the classical parameters of project management (i.e. goal, cost and time) and within a context of stakeholders who continuously influence the situation. Major elements are a detailed project plan, communication strategy, educational strategy, reporting system and monitoring by volunteers. Results show mortality of Blue Crane, Wattled Crane, Crowned Crane, Ludwig's Bustard and White Stork through collisions with powerlines which are in some instances higher than previously estimated. Electrocutions of Cape Griffons and large raptors remain a problem. Bustard collisions are poorly understood and require further research.

Key words: Eskom, EWT, mortalities, powerlines, management

1University of Leicester, UK; ²National Museums of Kenya, Elsamere, Box 1497, Naivasha, Nairobi, Kenya, e-mail elsa@africaonline.co.ke

Virani, M. & Harper, D.M. 1998. The African Fish Eagle at Lake Naivasha, Kenya. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 460.

Haliaeetus vocifer has declined by around 50% since 1970 to around 110 adults (all territory-holding pairs). Percentage of juveniles has declined from 20% to 4%. Presently shoreline density ranges from 2.6 adults/km (western shore with mature trees, continuous papyrus fringe and rocky hinterland) to 0.6 adults/km (eastern shore with intensively farmed riparian edge, degraded papyrus and no trees). The overall decline in adults has been caused by loss of total shoreline (one-third) as the lake has receded since 1970, exacerbated by degradation of papyrus vegetation around half the shoreline by human activity. Decline in productivity has been caused by reduction in available food. Appropriate-sized fish have declined through over-fishing and water transparency reduced by higher levels of sediment and phytoplankton growth. Appropriate-sized birds have almost disappeared following a catastrophic decline in aquatic littoral plants (see J038 Harper et al.). A total of 37 fish eagles have been trapped. Females weighed 2.30 to 3.31 kg (mean 2.99, n = 20); males 2.10 to 2.65 kg (mean 2.34, n = 17), suggesting that they may be catching barely enough food to maintain body weight but not enough to sustain breeding. The most effective conservation measure for the eagle will be effective management of fishery.

Key words: Haliaeetus vocifer, breeding biology, conservation, food-web interactions, fishery

BTO, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk. IP24 2PU. UK, e-mail chris.wernham@bto.org

Wernham, C.V. & Peach, W.J. 1998. Seasonal movements and survival of cormorants: Relevance to conflicts with inland fisheries. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 460.

The population of cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo wintering in Britain is believed to have increased markedly during the last 30 years, increasing the perception held by anglers and fisheries managers that cormorants affect fish stocks. Our analysis of ring recoveries provides important new biological information, essential for assessing the appropriate balance between conservation and management of the species. The proportion of cormorants recovered inland in Britain increased between 1965 and the mid-1980s and decreased slightly but significantly thereafter, this trend differing between age classes and between cormorants from seven breeding regions. Cormorants wintering inland did not originate from single breeding regions, with implications for any proposed control measures. Cormorants from four breeding regions have shown significant changes in wintering areas since 1980. During the last 30 years, the survival rates of British cormorants have declined, while survival has only decreased amongst first year cormorants in Ireland. Regional analyses (1976-1994) suggest that young cormorants in Scotland where breeding numbers have declined, have lower survival rates than those elsewhere. A simple population model demonstrated the paucity of basic biological information for these cormorant populations, which requires rectification before future population growth and the consequences of proposed management measures can be predicted.

Key words: seabird, survival, movements, population modelling, ring recoveries

 

Rhodes University, Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa, e-mail g92w5516@giraffe.ru.ac.za

Whittington-Jones, C.A., Hulley, P.E. & Craig, A. 1998. The impact of granivorous birds at feedlots in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 460.

Intensive rearing of ostriches began in the Eastern Cape Province in 1985 and is now widely practised throughout this region. Ostriches are kept in feedlots where they receive a complete diet ration of crushed maize, lucerne and fishmeal. This is presented in open troughs where it is readily accessible to birds (Ploceidae: Euplectes, Ploceus, Quelea; Passeridae: Passer; Columbidae: Columba, Streptopelia; Sturnidae: Spreo, Creatophora). Damage was estimated by censusing the problem bird species present at the feedlots at different times of year while the proportion of their diet comprised of ostrich feed was determined from gut content analysis. Dietary studies of captured birds provided daily consumption figures for the more important species. Some bird species obtain up to 95% of their daily intake from feedlots during winter months. The main problem birds are doves and ploceids; starlings appear to feed primarily on insects and fruit although maize is also taken. In addition to the direct economic costs of feed loss, removal of the high-energy maize component of the feed targeted by bird pests also negatively affects growth rates of the ostriches. Modifying the way in which feed is presented appears the most cost-effective method of reducing bird damage.

Key words: granivorous pests, ostrich feedlots

 

Environmental Defense Fund, 1875 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA, e-mail davidw@edf.org

Wilcove, D.S. 1998. Endangered birds as indicators for other endangered species: A case study from the United States. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 461.

I constructed a comprehensive database on the distribution of endangered birds and other species in the USA and the threats to their survival. The principal causes of endangerment for birds are habitat destruction (affecting 90% of imperilled bird species), exotic competitors and predators (69%), disease (37%), over-exploitation (33%), and pollution (22%). Within the category of habitat destruction, the leading causes are agriculture (affecting 42% of endangered birds), land development (33%), and water development (22%). These values are roughly comparable to those for other species groups. Endangered birds are concentrated along the coastlines of the Pacific and southeastern states and in Hawaii, Florida, and southern California. I then constructed an area-independent index of predictive power to assess which species group is the best indicator or surrogate for the others. The index suggests that birds, followed by reptiles and amphibians, are the best indicators of overall endangered biodiversity within any region. The correlation is not strong, however, indicating that no one group should be fully relied upon as a surrogate for others.

Key words: habitat destruction, exotic species, indicators, agriculture, endangered species

 

Entomology and Animal Ecology Department, PO Box 84, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand, e-mail wilsok@lincoln.ac.nz

Wilson, K-J., Gardner, P.K. & Was, N.W. 1998. Burrow competition between the endangered Chatham Petrel and the abundant Broad-billed Prion. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 461.

The Chatham Petrel Pterodroma axillaris and Broad-billed Prion Pachyptila vittata are both native to the Chatham Islands, 800 km east of New Zealand. Both were formerly common and bred on most islands in that group. Both have been extirpated from both large islands in the Chathams group and the now endangered Chatham Petrel remains only on Rangatira Island (218 ha) where competition for breeding burrows with the abundant Broad-billed Prion is probably the major cause of their continuing population decline. The prions nest early and by November, when the petrels begin breeding, prion chicks are about to fledge. Not only do prions get first opportunity to occupy burrows, they return to the island in February when the petrel chicks are first left unguarded by a parent. The petrel chicks are killed when prions take over the burrow. Petrel chicks remain vulnerable until shortly before fledging. The two species are similar in size (about 200 g) so physical exclusion of prions from petrel burrows is not possible. We are investigating how prions can be deterred from entering petrel burrows, how burrows can be modified to make them less attractive to prions and investigating the feasibility of 'controlling' prions near petrel burrows.

Key words: Pterodroma axillaris, Pachyptila vittata, conservation, Chatham islands, seabird

 

Institute of Ornithology, Korea Association of Wildlife Conservation, Daerim APT. 3 - 1404, Ogum-dong, Songpa-ku, Seoul 130-138, Korea, e-mail dongg@cs4000.dongduk.ac.kr

Won, P. 1998. Present status and conservation of threatened species of birds in Korea. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 462.

Since 1970's accelerated industrialisation has rapidly transformed natural ecosystems in Korea. A great number of human activities, such as wetland reclamation, human disturbances, illegal hunting and poisoning, and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilisers and insecticides, threatened wildlife virtually everywhere. This report reviews the conservation status of all species of birds in Korea which are now threatened. I used the following categories for nomination of threatened, near threatened, and data deficient: (1) IUCN Red List Categories (1994); (2) Birds listed in the Birds to Watch 2; (3) Bird treasures designated by the Korean Government; (4) Small threatened populations. Of the 422 species of Korean birds, 51 species of 13 orders are considered to be near threatened and threatened. The number of endangered species has increased remarkably since 1970's. Non-passerines outnumber passerines in Korea, and numbers of rare, vulnerable and endangered species of passerines are extremely small. In spite of the past efforts to legally proclaim the important bird sites as nature reserves, more reserves and sustained management and regulations are urgently needed. Moreover, the situation requires, through systemic education and guidance, the development of a pro-environmental morality and ethic.

Key words: threatened birds

 

International Institute Of Tropical Forestry, USDA Forest Service, P.O. Box 490, Palmer, Puerto Rico 00721 USA, e-mail donnabille@compuserve.com

Wunderle, J.M. & Latta, S.C. 1998. Factors associated with avian abundance in shaded coffee plantations in the Dominican Republic. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 462.

To identify some of the factors that influence avian abundance and diversity in coffee plantations with a shade overstory, we evaluated the relative importance of plantation area, isolation, and habitat structure and quantified foraging behaviour of birds in plantations. Variation in abundance was unrelated to plantation area in seven Nearctic migrant species, but abundance of four resident species increased significantly with area. Elevation was the only variable that contributed significantly to the total number of species per plantation. No habitat variables contributed significantly to variation in the total number of migrant species, but total number of resident species was correlated with several variables: higher numbers of resident species were found in larger and older plantations at lower elevations, and in plantations having numerous stems, with little or no pruning of overstory branches, and maximum canopy cover at 12.0 to 15.0 m. All species (N = 19) were observed foraging in the overstory and 18 species had median foraging heights significantly above the maximum coffee height. Our findings indicate that high structural and floristic diversity of the overstory canopy should be encouraged in coffee plantations for avian conservation and even the smallest plantations can contribute to avian abundance and diversity. Shaded plantations can serve as important refugia for woodland species in tropical agricultural regions.

Key words: coffee plantation, avian diversity, agricultural plantations, vegetation structure

 

Scientific-research Institute of Nature-Foci Infections, 644080, Omsk, Mira st.7, Russia, yakmn@dionis.omskelecom.ru

Yakimenko, V.V. 1998. Red Data Book birds in Omsk region (West Siberia). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 462.

There are 182 species of nesting birds (from 16 orders) and 23 species (from 6 orders) of migrant or wintering birds that occur in the Omsk region of West Siberia, Russia. From the Red Data Book list (ICBP, World and Russia checklist) the following were found nesting in the Omsk region: Dalmation Pelican (colonies located on Saltaim-Tenis lake on south of West Siberia 56°07'N, 71°55'E) and White-tailed Eagle (density of population 1 bird/160 km² in taiga and 1 bird/ 200 km² or 1 nest/500 km² in forest-steppe). Corncrake (ICBP World Checklist) is rare everywhere (0.2 pair/ km²), except on marshes in the northern-west region where it is common (density of population from 13 to 23.3 pairs/ km²). From the list Red Data Book of Russia the following were found nesting: Greater Spotter, Golden Eagle, Osprey, Pied Avocet, Blackwinged Stilt. Population density of Golden Eagle and Greater Spotter is 0.1 bird/10 km (forest landscape); of Osprey - 1 bird/ 100 km² (near rivers in taiga only); of Pied Avocet – 1 colony/300 km² in steppe. Blackwinged Stilt is very rare (salty lakes in steppe). White-headed Duck, Lesser Kestrel, and Virgo-demoiselle Crane are very rare in steppe (nests have not been found). Great and Little Bustards, Hooded Crane, Black Stork and Tawny Eagle disappeared from fauna of Omsk region at the beginning of the 20^th century. We found no nests of Slender-billed Curlew, Ferruginous Duck, Arctic Loon, Great Eagle-owl, Black-winged Pratincole, and Black Lark which need protection measures.

Key words: Russia, West Siberia, conservation, breeding

 

Issyk-Kul State Reserve of Kyrgyzstan, 722324 31 Gagarina St. Ananyevo, Kyrgyzstan

Yakovlev, A.P., Yakovleva, E.Y. & Sadykova, B.D. 1998. Reintroduction method of the Tyan-shan mountain population of Anser indicus. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 463.

Over the last 25 to 30 years the Tyan-Shan population of Anser Indicus has decreased by 10 to 15 times. Conservation measures implemented including nest inspection, were not enough to stabilise numbers. Therefore in Issyk-Kul Zapovednik, in 1989 a long-term project on restoration of Tyan-Shan mountain goose population numbers using enhanced reproduction with simultaneous monitoring was implemented. During this period methods were developed which increased the co-efficient of reproduction by 4 to 5 times in enclosure conditions. This method allowed us to obtain from three reproducing pairs 94 eggs (23 in 1995; 33 in 1996 and 38 in 1997). This method including incubation of the first two clutches of eggs under domesticated ducks Cairina moshata resulted in 41 individuals on the Son-Kul lake (11 in 1995; 13 in 1996 and 17 in 1997). This report describes current trends in the numbers of mountain goose population, highlights problems of their preservation and aims to attract the attention of the world conservation community to settling these problems.

Key words: reintroduction, Anser indicus, restoration, population, reproduction

 

University of Abidjan/Cocody, Department of Zoology, 22 BP 368 Abidjan 22, Côte-d'Ivoire, e-mail beibrok@syfed.ci.refer.org

Yaokokore-Beibro, K.H. 1998. Birds as indicators of Bossématie and Béki forest regeneration. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 463.

The Béki and Bossématie forests, in eastern Côte-d'Ivoire, have been intensively exploited through agriculture, lumbering and hunting until 1990. The sourthen part of the Bossématie forest is the only remaining intact forest. There has been a rehabilitation project in existence since 1992. In these forests at least 345 birds are estimated to occur and not less than 10 are in the ICBP Red Data Book. From June 1995 to July 1997, I have studied the birds communities in these forests and their relationship with management of the forest in order to see how diversity relates to management. The number of species and their abundance was estimated in primary forest, secondary forest and in forest plantations of respectively 5 and 25 years old. Both point counts and mist netting were used. For both methods the number of species increased with age of forest, and in addition was affected by the habitat type surrounding the plot. The results of this study show that the forest management affected bird communities. Old forest plantations were comparatively species rich and therefore are judged to be important habitats to maintain the high diversity in forest bird species.

Key words: indicators, forest, Bossématié, Béki, Côte-d'Ivoire

 

Nanhu Zincun, 67 Dong 311, Chanchun 130012, China

Zhao, Z. 1998. Current status of Mandarin Duck in China and its distribution. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 464.

The Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata is a pretty bird and is the admiration of us all. It breeds mainly in the upper reaches and tributaries of the Songhua, Yalu, Mundanjiang and Tumen rivers. It is especially common in the Toudaobai, Erdaobai, Gutong, Tan Wang and Nancha rivers in Changbai and Xiao Xinganling. It is also found to breed in Jinbai Lake, Wanda Mountain, Maoer Shan and Songhua Lake, Daxingan Ling, Yeimanpo to Southeast Liaoning and Dongling of Hebai province. In some areas, such as Daxing ling, Maoer Shan, Yeimanpo, Wanda Mountain, Southeast Liaoning and Dongling, the breeding population is very small. The Mandarin Duck breeds in broad-leaved forest or mixed forest. It feeds in rivers, ponds and lakes, in the forests and nests in holes in trees on river banks, and lays seven to 12 white eggs. Breeding population density in Toudaobai River of Changbai Mountain in 1977 to 1978 averaged 1.8 birds per km. During 1989, 1990, 1991 and 1994 the breeding population density was 1.2, 1.1, 0.95 and 0.90 birds per km respectively. Since 1978 the breeding population in Changbai Mountain has been reduced by half. At present, the total breeding population in China is estimated to be 1000 to 1500 pairs. The wintering distribution of Mandarin Duck is very scattered. More recently, records indicate a wintering distribution covering the south and east of China. It is especially common in the middle and lower reaches of the Changjiang River, Taihu Lake and Dongting Lake. The wintering population in China is estimated to be 2332 birds (IWRB, 1990). Including the population in other places except the IWRB census range in China, the wintering population is estimated to be 3000 to 4000 birds.

Key words: Aix galericulata, population density, distribution

 

Nanhu Xincun, 67 Dong 311, Chanchun 130012, China

Zhao, Z. 1998. Scaly-sided Merganser will be faced with the threat of extinction. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 464.

The Scaly-sided Merganser Mergus squamatus is an endangered species and was listed in the Red Book of World endangered species. They breed in Changbai Mountain and Xinganling in China and in Sikhot-Alin Mountain in far east Russia. The breeding population in far east Russia was estimated to be 950 pairs and in China the breeding population was estimated to be 200 to 250 pairs. In recent years the population of the Scaly-sided Merganser has continuously declined. The main reasons for this decline are deforestation, water pollution, illegal hunting and human disturbances through the use of poison and explosives in fishing which results in serious problems such as breeding habitat loss and food loss. The birds make their nests in cavities of large diameter (x = 57 cm) in broad-leaved trees bordering streams running through forests and feed mainly on small fish, shrimp, crayfish and caddisflies. There is difficulty in adapting to circumstances continuously changing for the worse. The decline of population of Scaly-sided Merganser has been marked and major threats continue to loom over the species' future. It is highly important that we should pay more attention to this birds and help them. Perhaps the 22^nd International Ornithological Congress can do something to help the Scaly-sided Merganser and other species that will be faced with the threat of extinction.

Key words: extinction, China, human disturbances, Mergus squamatus