Effect of nestbox type on occupancy and breeding biology of tree sparrows Passer montanus in central Spain
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Published source details
Garcia-Navas V., Arroyo L., Sanz J.J. & Dias M. (2008) Effect of nestbox type on occupancy and breeding biology of tree sparrows Passer montanus in central Spain. Ibis, 150, 356-364.
Published source details Garcia-Navas V., Arroyo L., Sanz J.J. & Dias M. (2008) Effect of nestbox type on occupancy and breeding biology of tree sparrows Passer montanus in central Spain. Ibis, 150, 356-364.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Provide artificial nesting sites for songbirds Action Link |
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Provide artificial nesting sites for songbirds
A replicated trial in the summers of 2002-6 in suburban habitats in Toledo, Spain (Garcia-Navas et al. 2008), found higher tree sparrow Passer montanus occupancy rates, and higher reproductive success in woodcrete nest boxes, compared to wooden ones (average of 76.5% of 50 woodcrete boxes occupied amd 81% success for 152 clutches vs. 33.5% of 50 wooden boxes occupied and 79% success for 68 clutches). Differences in success were due to earlier clutches, a shorter incubation period and more reproductive attempts per season. Clutch size and nestling condition did not differ between box types. The authors suggest that higher temperatures in woodcrete boxes could explain the differences. One hundred boxes were placed in pairs (one of each material) less than 5 m apart and hung from trees. Wooden boxes were larger than woodcrete ones (2,057 cm3 vs. 1,869 cm3).
