Age Structure and Density of Red-Capped Robin Populations Vary with Habitat Size and Shape

• Published in: The Journal of applied ecology 1999-12, Vol.36 (6), p.901-908
• Main Authors: Major, Richard E., Christie, Fiona J., Gowing, Greg, Ivison, Tessa J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Age structure; Animal and plant ecology; Animal, plant and microbial ecology; Animals; Applied ecology; Australia; Aves; Biological and medical sciences; Bird songs; Birds; conservation; Conservation biology; corridor; Demecology; fragmentation; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Habitat conservation; Habitat loss; Male animals; metapopulation; Petroica goodenovii; remnants; Vertebrata; Wildlife habitats; Yearlings
• ISSN: 0021-8901; 1365-2664
• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2664.1999.00457.x

1. In order to determine the influence of habitat shape on aspects of the population dynamics of birds, 196 male red-capped robins Petroica goodenovii were surveyed using song playback in large non-linear woodland remnants and linear roadside remnants in the wheatbelt of south-eastern Australia. 2. The average density of male robins was significantly higher in large non-linear remnants [0.86 ± 0.09 (SD) birds ha-1] than in small linear remnants [0.35 ± 0.16 (SD) birds ha-1]. 3. Red-capped robins exhibit delayed plumage maturation, and 14% of the males captured were yearlings. This percentage was significantly higher in roadside remnants (20%) than in large, non-linear remnants (8%). 4. These results indicate that different population processes are occurring in the individual remnants and the dynamics of the metapopulation are potentially complex. 5. Land managers must not focus excessively on wildlife corridors (narrow, linear habitats) at the expense of appropriate management and restoration of large areas of native vegetation.