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Heron Conservation
... They select habitats on the basis of structural characteristics and quality of foraging grounds, i.e. availability of food (e.g., [1,2]). The location of a colony is affected by a multitude of factors, including vegetation structure, quantity and quality of feeding habitats, interspecies associations and human disturbance, etc. [2][3][4][5][6]. Colonies of such birds attract the researchers' attention worldwide due to their influence on fish communities [7] and vegetation [8][9][10]. ...
... Thus, both aquatic and terrestrial habitats may serve as important feeding areas for the species (e.g., [6,16,18,19]). Colonies of grey heron are situated in a variety of habitats and landscapes from wetlands, agricultural land to villages and ornamental parks in city centres [4,18]. The specific local landscape characteristics often influence colony distribution, e.g., in France, the type and spatial organization of hydrographical networks surrounding the colonies affects the distribution of grey heron colonies [19]. ...
... Moreover, colonies situated in forests are often less conspicuous for predators and less exposed to human disturbance; grey herons would generally avoid urban zones in close proximity to their colonies because of the negative influence of human disturbance on breeding success and colony size (e.g., [27]). However, considering the successful functioning of some colonies in the city centres [4,18], we expected the existence of some colonies in highly urbanized areas. ...
We analysed hydrographic and habitat factors influencing the location of 207 colonies of the grey heron Ardea cinerea in Poland. We compared areas of particular habitats in three buffers around colonies (0–1, 0–10, 0–20 km) among eight regions differing in their proportions of studied habitats. We found the highest inter-region dissimilarities in areas covered by water bodies (all scales) and pastures (0–1 km). We recognized some indicator habitats characteristic of the majority (water bodies, pastures) or of some (seacoast, inland marshes, urbanized zone) regions. The habitat selectivity index showed that grey herons in buffer 0–1 km preferred pastures and water bodies in seven regions and rivers in one subprovince. In buffer 0–10 km, forests and urban zones were preferred in seven and five subprovinces, respectively. Our study revealed that both aquatic and non-aquatic habitats are important for the distribution of the grey heron colonies in Poland.
... Conservation of colonial waterbirds is directed primarily at breeding-site protection and preservation of large-scale feeding habitat (Kushlan 1997). Herons nest in a variety of habitats and breed in colonies consisting of a few to several thousand nests (Fasola and Alieri 1992a;Kushlan and Hafner 2000). Clearing of woodlands and wetland destruction for land reclamation are major threats to these species and the conservation of heronries is considered a priority, especially in areas of intensive agriculture (Fasola and Alieri 1992b;Kushlan and Hafner 2000). ...
... Herons nest in a variety of habitats and breed in colonies consisting of a few to several thousand nests (Fasola and Alieri 1992a;Kushlan and Hafner 2000). Clearing of woodlands and wetland destruction for land reclamation are major threats to these species and the conservation of heronries is considered a priority, especially in areas of intensive agriculture (Fasola and Alieri 1992b;Kushlan and Hafner 2000). ...
... The population decreased rapidly after 1992 and we do not know at present if this negative trend will continue or the population is stabilizing. Populations of Night Heron in northern Italy and other parts of Europe have shown a similar negative trend in recent years (Fasola and Romagnoli 1995;Kushlan and Hafner 2000). The other two species breeding in the Bosco Marengo heronry increased to about 100 nests in the last few years. ...
We surveyed a heronry for 16 years to study nest site selection in relation to bird species presence and vegetation structure. Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) was the most abundant species, while Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) and Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) increased only in the last years. In a first phase, Black-crowned Night Herons selected tall Black Locusts (Robinia pseudoacacia) for nesting. Later they moved into the understory, selecting Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and Black Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), while the higher canopy was used by Grey Herons. The result was a stratification of nests of different species. Considering the succession in use of different forest strata by the medium-sized heron species and years of Grey Heron arrival, it is likely that the forest structure more than competition between species influenced nest site selection in this heronry.
... The species is undoubtedly very rare and is considered to be globally threatened and categorized as Endangered A2c;C1 Vulnerable D1 (IUCN, 1996). However, since there is no justification for a population estimate of over 250 mature individuals, the scarcity and the combined known degree of habitat destruction and degradation over this species' range justifies classification as Critically Endangered (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000). ...
... White-bellied Herons were sighted twice in 2005 in the river Namdapha near Waterbirds of Arunachal Pradesh with special reference to high altitude rivers and wetlands Embyong-where the confluence of Noa-Dehing and Namdapha takes place and thrice in 2006 in Namdapha and Noa-Dehing rivers. Assuming that these five herons are part of the 250 mature individuals of the species exist today in the wild (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000), Namdapha Tiger Reserve is considered to support about 2% of the world's total population of this species. ...
Arunachal Pradesh, a state of India is one of the world’s most difficult mountainous regions, extremely precipitous and highly jagged, measuring an area of about 83,500 km2. The NE India has the highest avian diversity in India, with around 900 species (Choudhury 2000; 2001a). Many of these are threatened. Of the 15 Critically Endangered species of bird listed in India, seven have been recorded in this region. Of the 18 endangered species of bird in India, 12 have been recorded in the North-east. Of the 53 vulnerable species of birds in India, 33 have been recorded in the North-east. Overall, 60% of the threatened birds in the country have been recorded in the North-east. Surveys were carried in Namdapha Tiger Reserve and National Park, Pakke Tiger Reserve, Eagle Nest and Sessa Wildlife Sanctuaries, Anini district of Arunachal Pradesh (part of Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary and Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh in 2005,
2006, 2009, 2013, 2014 and 2015 to find out the waterbird diversity with special reference to White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis.
... Son origine faunique est indo-africaine (Ledant et al., 1981;Franchimont, 1986a). Aujourd'hui, l'espèce se rencontrent dans différents habitats que ce soit par l'augmentation locale de ses effectifs ou par l'évolution de son aire de répartition à l'échelle mondiale (Siegfried, 1978 ;Cramp & Simmons, 1980 ;Bredin, 1983 ;Bull & Farrand, 2000;Kushlan & Hafner, 2000). ...
... Son expansion au cours des deux derniers siècles caractérise l'Océanie, l'Afrique méridionale, l'Afrique du nord et le sud de l'Europe. Le héron garde boeuf a conquis vers le dernier siècle l'Amérique du sud, l'Amérique du nord et le Canada (Franchimont 1986b, Van Der Bosh et al., 1992Kushlan & Hafner 2000). Cette augmentation accélérée montre des populations en augmentation significatives dans la plupart des lieux de leur répartition (estimation de la population mondiale entre 3.800.000 ...
Diversité des ennemis naturels de Thaumetopoea pityocampa et Thaumetopoea bonjeani (Lep. Thaumetopoeidae) dans les forêts de Cedrus atlantica Manetti. Séminaire international Biodiversité et changements globaux
... Muchos de los sitios selecciondos por las especies presentan características en común como pueden ser brindar protección contra depredadores, permitir acceso fácil a los sitios de forrajeo, ser lugares estables y la existencia de material suficiente para realizar la construcción del nido (Kushlan y Hafner, 2000). La selección del sitio de nidación provoca el desarrollo de competencia entre los individuos dentro de la colonia (Rodgers, 1987) por lo que aparecen mecanismo de segregación tanto temporales como espaciales que tienden a disminuirla. ...
... Tal es el caso de la colonia multiespecífica presente en Cayo norte en la Ciénaga de Biramas, que en 2001 tenía 4500 pero en el año 1999 había alcanzado más de 12 000 nidos (Denis, 2001). La colonia de zancudas coloniales más grande conocida, se describió a inicios del pasado siglo en Río Bravo y llegó a sumar cerca de un millón de nidos, por lo que el efecto de tal acumulación de aves sobre el ecosistema adyacente debió ser impactante (Kushlan y Hafner, 2000). ...
Herons and egrets (Aves: Ardeidae) are colonial species characterized by its movility, acting as nutrient and energy transporters among ecosystems, impacting on nutrient cycling. On this group there are many studies focuses on reproductive dynamics and its parameters but there are few on its impact on energy flow and nutrient transport, by using mathematical models. In the present reasearch a dynamic model was developed to simulate the reproduction in a multispecific colony to assess biomass and nutrients movilized, and its effect on the ecosystem as well as its responses to human disturbances. The dynamic model was structured in 14 inteconected submodels, representing each section of the total dynamic. It includes 24 variables and 14 alometric equations from literatura, calibrated with field and literature data. Simulations shown that a colony of 700 individuals can deposit over 336.5 kg of nutrients (Ca, N and P), with relative differences among them. Colony consumed five tons of prey biomass, in relation to energy requirements. Influence points in this complex system were number of nesting individuals, reproductive sucess and fly distances to foraging. Antropogenic impact simulated cause strong effects in the colony, in special, the reduction of initial recruitment and the early extraction of nestlings or eggs.
... Son origine faunique est indo-africaine (Ledant et al., 1981;Franchimont, 1986a). Aujourd'hui, l'espèce se rencontrent dans différents habitats que ce soit par l'augmentation locale de ses effectifs ou par l'évolution de son aire de répartition à l'échelle mondiale (Siegfried, 1978 ;Cramp & Simmons, 1980 ;Bredin, 1983 ;Bull & Farrand, 2000;Kushlan & Hafner, 2000). ...
... Son expansion au cours des deux derniers siècles caractérise l'Océanie, l'Afrique méridionale, l'Afrique du nord et le sud de l'Europe. Le héron garde boeuf a conquis vers le dernier siècle l'Amérique du sud, l'Amérique du nord et le Canada (Franchimont 1986b, Van Der Bosh et al., 1992Kushlan & Hafner 2000). Cette augmentation accélérée montre des populations en augmentation significatives dans la plupart des lieux de leur répartition (estimation de la population mondiale entre 3.800.000 ...
Résumé
Le suivi de la désertificat ion dans les steppes du Sud Ouest Oranais (Algérie) est basé sur des approches
scientifiques.qui visent, à travers la surveillance écologique à long terme (plus d’une quarantaine d’années
d’observation), à améliorer les connaissances relatives aux changements des systèmes écologiques. Comprendre
les différents phénomènes et les mécanismes responsables de ces changements et de la désertificat ion, permettra
de constituer des bases de données fiables et pertinentes sur les différents compartiments des systèmes, biotiques
et abiotiques. Le t raitement et l’analyse de ces données ont pour finalité de faire ressortir les indicateurs
biophysiques et socioéconomiques, expression des différentes contraintes et perturbations impliquées dans le
déclenchement du processus de la dégradation, d’évaluer leurs impacts, de les tester, de les valider et de les
proposer comme outils aux décideurs chargés de la lutte contre la désertification et du développement durable.
Mots Clès : Ecosystèmes steppiques ; suivi à long terme, changements ; indicateurs, désertification
Abstract
The monitoring of the desertification, in the western Algerian steppes is based on scientific approaches that aim,
through a long term ecological monitoring (more than forty years of monitoring), to improve the knowledge
related to the changes of the ecological systems. To understand the various phenomena and the mechanisms
involved and responsible for these changes will allow constituting reliable and relevant databases on the various
compartments of the systems, biotic and abiotic. Processing and analysing of these data will have for purpose to
emphasize the biophysics and socio-economic indicators- expression of various constraints and disturbances
implied in the release of the process of degradation- to evaluate their impacts, to test them, to validate them and
to propose them like tools to the policy and decision makers in charge of combating the desertification and
allowing a sustainable development.
Key Words: Steppes; long terme monitoring , change, indicators, desertificat ion
... Any environmental changes would induce variability in their distribution, habitat use and reproductive parameters, which is of considerable interest to wildlife and land managers (Temple and Wiens, 1989;Green, 1996). Their apportionment follows the distribution of few suitable wetlands where losses and deterioration of freshwater feeding and breeding habitat, resulting from changes in agricultural practices and urbanization, have been recorded (Tucker and Heath, 1994;Hafner and Didner, 1997;Kushlan and Hafner, 2000). Several studies have stressed the need for creation and preservation of habitat for wading birds in both Northern and Southern shores of Mediterranean basin (Fishpool and Evans, 2001;Tourenq et al., 2001;Chauvelon et al., 2003). ...
... This is explained by the nature of the species which is recognized as expanding in North Africa as well as through its global range (Van Der Bosh et al., 1992;Brochier et al., 2010). Expansion in its distribution range and increase in number of populations and size have been reported over the last 50 years (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000). ...
We studied reproduction patterns and habitat use by Herons at Lebna, Chikli and Ichkeul wetlands in Northern Tunisia during 2009 and 2010. The largest number of herons was recorded at Ichkeul after completion of breeding. Cattle Egrets preferred farmlands but also inhabited marshes. However, all other species (Grey Herons, Great White Herons, Little Egrets and Squacco Herons) seemed to be much dependent on marshes and rivers. The distribution of heron species among habitats varied significantly with years and seasons. Variations of reproductive parameters were revealed between sites, biotopes and years. The most successful nesting points were recorded at Ichkeul for both Little and Cattle Egrets. At Chikli breeding parameters were catastrophic. Losses concerned mainly nests built on the ground; those arboreal had a significantly higher reproductive performance. The clutch size of Cattle Egrets varied positively with diameter of nest at Lebna. Also, at Chikli, the height of nest had a significant effect on both initial and final brood size of Little Egrets.
Our results stress the need for further protection measures at study sites. For instance, suitable control of water regime through Tinja channel is absolutely necessary to improve the ornithological value of Ichkeul National Park. Also the accessibility to Lebna and Chikli sites should be highly controlled by managers of Tunisian wetlands, especially during the breeding season.
... In the Mediterranean basin, despite the slight increase of some populations in its western region, the species is rare along the southern shore Evans 2000, Kushlan and. The species' clumped distribution follows the few suitable freshwater areas (Kushlan and Hafner 2000) remaining in a region where losses and deterioration of freshwater feeding and breeding habitat have been recorded (Tucker andHeath 1994, Hafner andDidner 1997). ...
... In fact, any environmental changes which would induce variability in their reproductive parameters are of considerable interest to wildlife and land managers (Temple and Wiens 1989). This is why the breeding biology of colonial herons has been the subject of studies worldwide (Kushlan and Hafner 2000). ...
We studied the reproduction patterns of Squacco Herons, Ardeola ralloides, during 2009–2010. This study was carried out in two colonies located at Ichkeul National Park (37.184992 N, 9.633758 E) and Lebna Dam (36.744161 N, 10.916569 E), in northern Tunisia. We determined the reproductive performance of the species, and investigated the relationship between reproductive parameters and nest characteristics (height and diameter). We registered successful nesting, with mean clutch size of 4.51 ± 0.85 for both years combined. Hatching success was 3.67 ± 1.07 eggs hatched/nest and fledging success reached 3.06 ± 1.28 young/nest. All reproductive parameters varied between years. The diameter and the height of nest had no effect on the clutch size, the initial brood size, or the final brood size at each site. We estimated the body condition index (BCI) and the growth curves of developing nestlings from repeated measurements of body mass, tarsus, head and bill length. The last chicks (rank four) to hatch had lower (BCI) and growth rates than the first, the second, and the third hatched chicks. These results stress the need for further protection measures be undertaken at Lebna Dam. Accessibility to the site should be highly controlled by the managers of Tunisian wetlands.
... Implementation of a predator management program should proceed only after careful consideration of all options and only at sites where the impact of predation on the local population is fully understood. Predator control is generally not appropriate at sites where predation is a natural occurrence, where predation is not likely to jeopardize the sustainability of the local population, and where predation is "demonstrably unaffected by human actions" (Kushlan et al 2000). However, in some cases, predation is the single biggest impact to nesting waterbirds and should be dealt with immediately. ...
... At the same time, managers must recognize that lethal control of abundant predators, especially those that exist at un-naturally high populations due to human influences, might be warranted. Lethal control should target only offending individuals and should be implemented only after non-lethal techniques have been attempted and failed (Kushlan et al. 2000). In most states, permits are required to trap or otherwise handle native mammals and some states have specific post-trapping protocols that must be followed. ...
... It has a wide geographical distribution in Africa due to its commensal expansion (sensu Blackburn et al. 2009) and is considered as an invasive species in many localities (Barbosa-Filho et al. 2009;Nunes et al. 2010;Lunardi et al. 2013;Khan et al. 2014;Tavares and Siciliano 2014). In the Mediterranean region, especially its western half, the Cattle Egret had a broad breeding distribution since the 1990s with a major expansion of its numbers (Kushlan and Hafner 2000;Kushlan and Hancock 2005;Si Bachir et al. 2011). ...
... establishment of new agricultural fields, an increase of irrigated areas and creation of landfills that provided new food resources. However, factors intrinsic to the species also played a role, mainly its ability to survive under changing environmental conditions and to adapt its behaviour to cope with new environmental conditions and efficiently to exploit new habitats (Arendt 1988;Kushlan and Hafner 2000;Barbosa-Filho et al. 2009;Nunes et al. 2010;Si Bachir et al. 2012). Amongst intrinsic factors involved in the Cattle Egret's expansion, its high reproductive success has been one of the most important. ...
Colony occupation by Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis) at an arid location in northeast Algeria lasted from mid-March or April to August. The colony, which was founded in 2003, increased from 124 pairs in 2007 to 250 pairs in 2011 and the density of nests from 0.36 to 0.73 nests/m² in the same period. The number trees used for nesting increased from 16 trees in 2007 to 40 in 2011. The average height of nesting trees ranged from 12.8 ± 3.0 m in 2007 to 13.6 ± 2.9 m in 2011, whereas the average height of nests varied between 11.5 ± 2.5 m and 13.2 ± 2.9 m. Cattle Egrets built their nests mainly on strong primary branches of trees (30%) or secondary branches at the periphery of the tree’s crown (29%). Numbers of nests sited in a tree were significantly influenced by the species of tree and the diameters of its trunk and crown, as well as by the horizontal and vertical positions of nests within the tree.
... As a result of surveying the number of Family Ardeidae that bred following the findings above, Taejang (Won, 1981), 거의 모 든 열대와 아열대지역의 습지에서 광범위하게 분포한다 (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000). (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000), 이러한 습지의 파괴와 퇴화 그리고 기능 상실은 백로류 개체군의 급격한 감소의 원인이 된다 (Kushlan, 1991 (Harris 1984;Wilcove et al., 1986;Saunders et al., 1991) Figure 9). ...
... As a result of surveying the number of Family Ardeidae that bred following the findings above, Taejang (Won, 1981), 거의 모 든 열대와 아열대지역의 습지에서 광범위하게 분포한다 (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000). (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000), 이러한 습지의 파괴와 퇴화 그리고 기능 상실은 백로류 개체군의 급격한 감소의 원인이 된다 (Kushlan, 1991 (Harris 1984;Wilcove et al., 1986;Saunders et al., 1991) Figure 9). 분류군중 개체밀도가 가장 높은 우점군으로 나 타났다( Figure 11). ...
This study aims to provide the biological and geographical materials to identify the changes in population of Family Ardeidae included Egretta alba modesta, Egretta garzetta, Bubulcus ibis, and Nycticorax nycticorax and establish their conservation measurement in terms of the fragmented and deteriorated habitat by human development such as housing and park projects. Wonjucheon Stream was measured the highest species diversity since the survey site was relatively less interfered by the surrounding human beings showing lower disturbance elements. However, the closer the stream comes downstream, the more the artificial disturbance elements generate, confirming that the species better adapted to contamination grow in more density so that the species composition becomes simplified. It implies that feeding place as well as breeding-growing places is also more closely related to the changes in population structure and species composition of Family Ardeidae. The results of Family Ardeidae immigration in Taejang-dong, Wonju, among the other survey sites, revealed that a total of 231 came to the site in 2006; and 210 in 2011, showing more or less reduction in the population. In the mean while, Namyang-dong in Hwaseong City showed the continuous decrease in population number of Family Ardeidae with 135 before development and 60 during development, resulting in the number never growing but continuously narrowing over and over after development. As a result of surveying the number of Family Ardeidae that bred following the findings above, Taejang-dong in Wonju City had 4 species of Family Ardeidae being bred, however, showing the decrease in number of population from 998 in 2006 to 589 in 2011. Namyang-dong in Hwaseong was confirmed to have as many as 352 of the population in 2006 and 230 in 2008; after the deforestation on their habitat, they had not lived in the site any longer, suggesting that the development would significantly affect Family Ardeidae.
... Long-distance migrating herons use active flapping flight during both day and night (Maddock & Bridgeman 1992, Maddock & Geering 1993, Liechti & Schaller 1999, Kushlan & Hafner 2000. However, it was unknown whether herons make stopovers and if so, to what extent. ...
... Our finding of the juvenile bird flying 5600 km non-stop supports this idea. The colonisation of the Americas by the Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis from Europe further illustrates this point (Del Hoyo et al. 1992, Kushlan & Hafner 2000. ...
Large and heavy birds usually use soaring flight during long-distance migration or make regular stopovers en route for substantial refuelling. Purple Herons are large, long-distance migrants. Because of their size, large herons migrating southwards from Europe to Africa were expected to make one or more stop-overs to refuel. However, data from seven Purple Herons, fitted with satellite transmitters, showed that the herons were able to cover the distance into the Sahel of about 4000 km within 5–7 days. One individual even flew 5600 km non-stop, mostly over sea. The herons migrated mostly at night and partly during the day with a high travel speed indicative of flapping flight. The herons made few diurnal stops in Europe and North Africa. Substantial ‘stopover’ time was limited entirely to a period of several weeks before departure, and after arrival south of the Sahara. We assume that this is energetically possible for birds with a maximum wing load of 4–5 kg body mass per m2 of wing surface. Larger wing loads as in storks or raptors prescribe soaring or refuelling with the consequence that most migratory journeys to African wintering grounds then take at least a month. The results emphasize the conservation importance of abundant and high-quality feeding habitat near the breeding areas for pre-migratory fuelling of this species. Furthermore, arrival habitat is likely to be more essential than previously expected. We suspect that the lack of suitable arrival habitat might explain the observed high adult mortality in dry Sahel periods better than ‘winter’ survival.
... ustna). Gatunek ten zasiedla również ogród botaniczny w centrum Londynu (Kushlan & Hafner 2000) i park w pobliżu zoo w Barcelonie, gdzie do lęgów przystępuje ok. 80 par (Jordi Baucells Colomer -inf. ...
Synurbization of the Grey Heron has been described from Western Europe, but urban colonies of the species have been rarely reported from Poland. One of the urban Polish breeding colonies is located in Wrocław, Lower Silesia, where the species has nested since 1994. At the end of April 2019 we counted a total of 204 breeding pairs. This colony is divided into two subcolonies with 104 and 100 nests, respectively. The main nesting tree is the Black Pine Pinus nigra. The most likely the number of breeding pairs within the colony is increasing.
... Due to their conspicuous behavior, abundance and often socio-economic and ecological impacts, the general distribution and basic biology of most of these taxa have been well studied globally (Hancock and Kushlan 1984, Brooke and Birkhead 1991, Kushlan and Hafner 2000, Kushlan and Hancock 2005. Continentally, studies are generally well distributed: in Europe (Hafner and Fasola 1997, Marchant et al. 2004, British Trust for Ornithology 2018, Asia (Hong Kong Bird Watching Society 2016, Mashiko andToquenaga 2018, Matsunaga 2018) North America (Gawlik et al. 1998, Spies and Weingartner 2007, Maccarone et al. 2010, Rush et al. 2015, Cox et al. 2017, South America (Kushlan et al. 2002, Stier 2018, Yanosky 2018 and Australia (Maddock and Baxter 1991, Richardson et al. 2001, McKilligan 2005. ...
Heronries in Africa are poorly studied and many data gaps are evident in terms of occurrence, species composition and productivity of these colonial breeding sites. This paper introduces HeronryMAP:Africa, a citizen-science project started in 2014 that aims to systematically collect long-term data on location, size and composition, site fidelity, longevity and conflict scenarios of heronries in Africa. Preliminary results are presented for current and historical sites sourced over a three year period (2014-2016). Three hundred and thirty-six colony sites were identified and mapped in 14 (25.9%) African countries; 72.6% of sites have no formal protection, 18.8% were subject to at least one human conflict scenario with 'cut-ting of trees' and 'removal of trees' being the most common human disturbances. A first, but presumably grossly underestimated total of 35,000 breeding pairs of colonial waterbirds in Africa is provided from available data. No species-specific nest data are given due to the tendency to report total nest numbers in mixed colonies rather than species-specific numbers. The study revealed a general paucity of data for heronries in Africa (there was no response from 74.1% of African countries), but also the challenges faced in collecting adequate scientific data for these sites. It did, however, show how citizen-science can make significant contributions to research projects that are poorly funded or have limited resources. Human-wildlife conflicts were highlighted as an area that is poorly understood for heronries but has important conservation outcomes. Future objectives include identification of species composition, assessment of priority sites, identification of conservation action for colonies under threat and production of an Atlas of African Heronries.
... Ornithos 13-5 (2006) de bagues espagnoles ; l'un d'eux a pu être identifié : il avait été bagué comme poussin dans le delta de l'Ebre en Catalogne. Il est donc probable que les individus fréquentant la bordure méditerranéenne française viennent en majorité, si ce n'est en totalité, des populations espagnoles en phase de colonisation de nouveaux sites, comme cela fut le cas pour le Héron garde-boeufs dès les années 1960 , Kushlan & Hafner 2000. Les dates de ponte et tailles de nichées en Camargue sont similaires à celles notées dans d'autres populations (Glutz von Blotzheim & Bauer 1966, Hancock et al. 1992, Del Hoyo et al. 1992). ...
... H erons are wading birds of considerable significance, because they act as indicator species in wetland areas. They have been remained important in extensive number of studies concerning their habitat, distribution pattern, breeding biology, foraging behavior and as indicators of pollution (Kazantzidis and Goutner, 1996;Kazantzidis, 1998;Kushlan and Hafner, 2000;Goutner et al., 2001a, b). ...
Cattle egret is considered as biological insect pest control agent in our agricultural ecosystem. To analyze this activity present work was planned to collect the preliminary information about habitat requirements and different breeding aspects of Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis). The fieldwork was performed for two years (2012, 2013) at three different stations in the surrounding area of Faisalabad. Based on results it was concluded that Cattle egrets are colonial breeders and colonies were monospecific with no other ardeidae members nesting in the neighborhood. They prefer sites for nest building, which have regular accessibility of water, and usual human activities are common nearby. The breeding period was discerned to be start from April to August and Acacia nilotica was observed as most preferred tree for nesting followed by Syzygium cuminii. At three selected sites, 30 nests from each were marked and regularly monitored to get data on nesting behavior (nest height and diameter), birds plumage variations, courtship behavior, eggs measurements (clutch size, eggs length, breadth and weight), incubation and hatching. The hatching of the chicks was observed to be an asynchronous one i.e., chicks did not hatch at the same time but at an interval of a day (20-25 h). Role of parents during weaning period i.e. feeding and parental care of nestlings was performed by both partners. It may be said that Cattle egret is an insectivorous bird and take food from the agricultural fields in surroundings of study sites. Therefore, an awareness program about the beneficial status of Cattle egret in agro-ecosystem is recommended to protect and promote their habitats from anthropogenic activities.
... (Grant and Watson, 1995;Telfair, 1993 Grant and Watson, 1995;Telfair and Thompson, 2000;Telfair and Thompson, 1986;Dusi, 1985;Dusi, 1983 Grant and Watson, 1995;Dusi, 1985). 주요 취식지역의 분 포, 넓이, 접근 가능한 취식지에서의 경쟁, 교란 위험 등에 대한 다양한 기초조사 (Kushlan and Hafner 2000;Kelly et al. 1993;Gibbs et al. 1987 (Werschkul et al. 1977). ...
... The White-eared Night-Heron (Gorsachius magnificus) is a medium-sized and boldly patterned waterbird that has been listed as a globally endangered species due to its decreasing population and the fragmentation of its habitat (BirdLife International 2016). Only a few individuals were recorded in the field after its discovery on Hainan, an island province of China, at the end 19th century (Ogilvie-Grant 1899; Kushlan and Hafner 2000). In the late 20th century, observations of White-eared Night-Herons occurred more frequently in south Guangxi, China (Zhou 1994;Fellowes et al. 2001). ...
White-eared Night-Herons (Gorsachius magnificus) have been observed throughout their range, but their life history is still poorly understood, especially breeding parameters prior to 2007. This study was conducted on the breeding parameters of White-eared Night-Herons, from April 2009 to July 2015, in two artificial forests of southern China. All nests were located on two crossing branches of Masson's pine (Pinus massoniana) with altitudes ranging from 123–248 m. Most (88.9%; n = 18) White-eared Night-Heron pairs began breeding in March and completed breeding in July. They consistently laid three eggs, hatching on average 2.88 ± 0.49 (n = 17; Range = 1–3) nestlings and fledging on average of 2.17 ± 1.38 (n = 18; Range = 0–3) fledglings per nest. Tree felling and human disturbance were the two most important factors influencing the breeding success of White-eared Night-Herons in the artificial forests. These results suggest that White-eared Night-Herons have a strong adaptability in breeding behavior in pine trees of artificial forests.
... Waterbirds as well as other water-dependent species recorded inside the reserve are given in Table 2. White-bellied Herons were sighted twice in 2005 in the river Namdapha near Embyong-where the confluence of Noa-Dehing and Namdapha takes place, and thrice in 2006 in Namdapha and Noa-Dehing rivers ( Table 3). Assuming that these five herons are part of the 250 mature individuals of the species exist today in the wild (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000), Namdapha Tiger Reserve is considered to support about 2% of the world's total population of this species. 1996b), further west of Embyong. ...
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... Some locals even acted as informants of the population's whereabouts and activities which made monitoring and protection of the Milky Storks easier. Although the waterbirds in general are regarded as pest or threat to the aquaculture industry as they prey on aquaculture products, the losses are actually relatively low compared to other causes of mortality such as diseases, accidents, and poor water quality (Kushlan & Hafner 2000). As the Milky Storks foraging areas also comprise of extensive shrimp farms throughout Kuala Gula, regular meetings with shrimp farmers or workers helped to educate them and raise their awareness on the importance of protecting the released population. ...
This review discussed the current status of the Milky Stork Re-introduction Programme in Malaysia and the challenges it faced. Although it has continued for almost seven years, more challenges appeared as time elapsed mainly due to the arising conflicts between the implementation of conservation policy versus the development projects in Kuala Gula. Hence, the released population is struggling to adapt mainly due to the reduction of suitable habitat for nesting and disturbed foraging areas by the continuous anthropogenic activities. Furthermore, the lack of appropriate training among captive storks prior to being released also slows the adaptation of the birds in their new habitat. The increasing pattern of pollution in the area is also highlighted. Several suggestions were given to help improve the current re-introduction programme. These include improvements to the captive training method, improvement of the existing enclosure’s condition and environment, protection of remaining mangrove forest, creation of a buffer zone to mitigate the increasing pollution level in the area, close monitoring of the released population, and maintaining continuous support and awareness among the public. Considering the ongoing anthropogenic activities that may impair the status of Kuala Gula as an important bird sanctuary, emphasis should be given to achieve sustainable development throughout the area.
... Bubulcus ibis is a cosmopolitan bird divided in three subspecies: Bubulcus i. ibis , which occurs in Africa, west Asia, southern Europe and America; Bubulcus i. coromandus , which occurs in Asia and Oceania; and Bubulcus i. seychellarum , which occurs only in the Seychelles archipelago (Vaurie 1963, Kushlan andHafner 2000). We focused on B. ibis ibis from the African continent, hereafter referred to as the cattle egret . ...
Increasing aridity during glacial periods produced the retraction of forests and the expansion of arid and semiarid environments in Africa, with consequences for birds. Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) is a dispersive species that prefers semiarid environments and requires proximity to bodies of water. We expected that climatic oscillations led to the expansion of the range of the cattle egret during arid periods, such as the Last Maximum Glacial (LGM) and contraction of distribution during the Last Interglacial (LIG) period, resulting in contact of populations previously isolated. We investigated this hypothesis by evaluating the genetic structure and population history of 15 cattle egret breeding colonies located in West and South Africa using the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region, mtDNA ATPase 8 and 6, and an intron of nuclear gene transforming growth factor beta-2. Occurrence data and bioclimatic information were used to generate ecological niche models of three periods (present, LGM and LIG). We used the genetic and paleomodelling data to assess the responses of the cattle egret from Africa to the climatic oscillations during the late Pleistocene. Genetic data revealed low levels of genetic differentiation, signs of isolation-by-distance, as well as recent increases in effective population size that started during the LGM. The observed low genetic structure may be explained by recent colonization events due to the demographic expansion following the last glacial period and by dispersal capacity of this species. The paleomodels corroborated the expansion during the LGM, and a more restricted potential distribution during the LIG. Our findings supports the hypothesis that the species range of the cattle egret expanded during arid periods and contracted during wet periods.
... De même, la biologie de reproduction des grands échassiers est devenue très intéressante pour les chercheurs et les gestionnaires de la faune sauvage, sachant que la variation des paramètres de reproduction reflète généralement les changements environnementaux (Temple & Wiens 1989, Kushlan & Hafner 2000. ...
... Las aves acuáticas han ganado en importancia en la atención del público y de la comunidad científica a partir de la década de los 60, en la medida que se comprendió el indiscutible valor de los humedales para la conservación y la creciente presión que se ejerce mundialmente para su destrucción o utilización no sostenible. Hoy en día, estas aves se reconocen como especies bandera en los proyectos de conservación, protección y manejo de los humedales ya que son el componente más visible de estos ecosistemas y dependen de ellos en gran medida (Kushlan y Hafner, 2000), por esta razón, la disminución de estos ecosistemas a nivel mundial las afecta muy directamente. Con fines conservacionistas se han trazado numerosas investigaciones ecológicas que permitan discernir el papel de estas especies en la estructura y funcionamiento de los ecosistemas en los cuales interactúan. ...
... Esta especie fue prácticamente exterminada en Norteamérica a principios del siglo pasado por los cazadores para el comercio de plumas y aunque se ha recobrado, el total de reproductores al nivel mundial se estima entre 6 000 y 10 000 parejas (Butler et al., 2000). Por ello, y por su restricción geográfica, ha sido catalogada globalmente como una especie vulnerable (Kushlan y Hafner, 2000). En nuestro país, solo hay constancia de dos reportes de nidificación, el primero de Gundlach (1876) en Septiembre de 1857, en los manglares de la desembocadura del río Cauto quien describe una reunión de garzas de distintas especies, anidadas, donde se encontraban muchísimos ejemplares adultos del morfo blanco de la Garza Rojiza. ...
... El colonialismo es una característica típica de muchas de estas especies y constituye un fenómeno complejo que ha evolucionado bajo diversas presiones selectivas aún no comprendidas en su totalidad. Particularmente, en las aves acuáticas coloniales los periodos reproductivos, aunque se mantienen entre ciertos límites, son variables localmente y de año en año, ya que responden a complejos factores ambientales relacionados con el clima, la abundancia de fuentes de alimentación estacionales o efímeras, entre otras (Kushlan y Hafner, 2000). El conjunto exacto de indicadores ambientales que utilizan las aves acuáticas para iniciar la formación de colonias es desconocido (Bancroft et al., 1994). ...
... The suitability of Famagusta Freshwater Lake as a breeding habitat for colonial herons may be the result of a variety of factors. The suitability of flooded woodland including Tamarix sp. as a nesting habitat (Dragonetti & Giovacchini 2009;Tourenq et al. 2000) provides protection against terrestrial predators and human disturbance (Fasola & Alieri 1992), as well as nesting material (Kushlan & Hafner 2000). Access to feeding areas in the vicinity is equally important. ...
This study constitutes the first record of a mixed-species heron colony and of a breeding population of Squacco Heron (Ardeola ralloides) in Cyprus. The colony, located at Famagusta Freshwater Lake, was surveyed from March to June 2007. The survey were terminated after 25 June when it was not possible to boat to the colony due to decreasing water levels. The total number of active nests, i.e. containing eggs and/or hatchlings, was 135 for Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis); 38 for Squacco Heron and 4 for Little Egret (Egretta garzetta). Cattle Egrets started nest building and egg laying at the beginning of March and hatching started by the end of March. Egg-laying and hatching continued throughout June, possibly due to second broods. Mean clutch size was 3.5±0.8 eggs (range 1-5; n=135). Mean hatching success was 2.9±1 hatched egg per nest (range = 1-5; n=54) and mean breeding success was 2.8±1 chick per nest (range = 0-5; n=36) for chicks surviving up to 15 days after hatching. Squacco Herons started nest building and egg laying by the end of May and hatching started by mid June. Egg-laying and hatching continued throughout June and probably in July and August. As surveys were terminated in June, it was not possible to collect sufficient data on the breeding chronology of this species. Mean clutch size was 3.1 ± 0.8 egg (range 2-4; n=38), which was lower than European estimates. A multitude of activities at and around Famagusta Freshwater Lake pose potential threats to the conservation of the colony resulting in an urgent need for management of the wetland.
... The cattle egret was the most abundant species feeding in rice fields throughout the study period and its feeding efficiency was higher than those of other ardeids, as has been reported in other studies in rice fields (Tojo 1996, Lombardini et al. 2001, Richardson et al. 2001, Richardson and Taylor 2003. The cattle egret is well adapted to agricultural and disturbed habitats worldwide Hafner 2000, Kushlan andHancock 2005), which may be related to their prey preferences; they are mainly insectivores. Rice fields provide an adequate habitat for various arthropod communities (e.g., aquatic and terrestrial insects and spiders) in Korea (Lee et al. 2002) and other countries (González-Solís et al. 1996, Yamazaki et al. 2004, Wilson et al. 2008. ...
This study was conducted to investigate the feeding efficiency of the cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) and the intermediate egret (Ardea intermedia) in relation to the stage of rice culture during two breeding seasons, 2006 and 2007, in Asan city, Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea. Cattle egrets caught mainly small invertebrate prey (insects and spiders, 98.4%) during all stages of rice cultivation, and had a higher prey capture rate in the plowing stage (14.98 prey/min) than in other stages (2.82-3.51 prey/min). Therefore, the biomass intake rate of cattle egrets was highest in the plowing stage. The intermediate egret captured both loaches (43.4%) and small invertebrates (50.6%). The prey capture rates of intermediate egrets increased gradually from the flooding stage (0.38 prey/min) to the planting stage (1.09 prey/min), and decreased in the growing stage (1.04 prey/min). However, intermediate egrets had the highest biomass intake rates in the plowing stage because more loaches were caught in the plowing stage (0.54 loaches/min) than other stages (0.23-0.36 loaches/min). Consequently, both intermediate egrets and cattle egrets had high energy intakes in the plowing stage and rice fields provided an important feeding habitat for both species.
... Therefore, the hypothesis that these individuals have been driven to the Azores by winds blowing from America is plausible. The preferred habitats of this species in the normal parts of its range are humid zones such as swamps, tidal plains, sheltered bays, estuaries, lagoons (Sick 1997;Kushlan & Hancock 2005;Restall et al. 2006), and mangroves (Kushlan & Hafner 2000;Olmos & Silva e Silva 2003). Yellow-crowned Night Herons feed on a large array of prey such as fish, amphibians, molluscs (snails), and especially crustaceans (crabs) (Olmos & Silva e Silva 2003; King & Leblanc 1995;Martinez 2004). ...
This paper presents and describes the first confirmed occurrence of the Yellow-crowned Night Heron Nyctanassa violacea in the Azores, which also represents the first record for Europe and the Western Palearctic. We also present and discuss subsequent reports of the species in Macaronesia. Several hypotheses may help to explain the occurrence of this species in this part of the Atlantic, including disorientation caused by strong winds and increasing observation pressure. However, further studies are necessary to assess the part played by the different factors in the occurrence of new vagrant individuals/species in Macaronesia.
... Todos estes fatores podem influenciar no sucesso da colônia (FREDERICK; COLLOPY, 1989), principalmente se tratando de produtividade de filhotes (KELLY et al., 2008). Embora as aves aquáticas sejam um grupo bastante conhecido, há poucos estudos sobre sua ecologia, sistemas de acasalamento e informações sobre a qualidade de suas áreas de ocorrência no Brasil HAFNER, 2000;MINO;DEL-LAMA, 2009). Apesar do estuário da Baía da Babitonga ser considerado como uma área importante para a conservação de aves, principalmente pela presença de espécies ameaçadas de extinção (BENCKE et al., 2006), é notável a carência de informações sobre aspectos reprodutivos das aves aquáticas na região. ...
http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-7925.2014v27n2p117
As aves aquáticas costumam reproduzir de modo agregado, formando grandes colônias reprodutivas com diferentes espécies. Este estudo descreve aspectos biológicos das aves aquáticas de uma colônia na ilha do Maracujá, no estuário da baía da Babitonga, litoral norte de Santa Catarina. Foram coletados dados sobre riqueza de espécies, abundância, cronologia reprodutiva, predação e distribuição dos ninhos na ilha. No período de setembro de 2010 a fevereiro de 2011, foram identificadas 15 espécies de aves aquáticas utilizando o local para alimentação e descanso, sendo que destas, cinco espécies se reproduziam na ilha (Nycticorax nycticorax, Nyctanassa violacea, Egretta caerulea, Phimosus infuscatus e Aramides cajanea). Foram registrados 154 ninhos ativos, sendo 79 ninhos de N. nycticorax, 14 ninhos de N. violacea, seis ninhos de P. infuscatus, cinco ninhos de E. caerulea e apenas um ninho de A. cajanea. A população estimada para o local foi de 308 indivíduos reprodutores, sendo que N. nycticorax foi a espécie mais abundante, correspondendo a 51% dos ninhos. Os meses com maior concentração de ninhos foram setembro, outubro e novembro. Além das aves aquáticas, também foram registradas quatro espécies de aves de rapina e carniceiras, as quais foram responsáveis por perdas de ovos e/ou filhotes, junto com Larus dominicanus. A ilha do Maracujá vem sendo utilizada para reprodução por pelo menos cinco espécies e sua proteção merece atenção, a fim de garantir a manutenção e possibilidade de ampliação desse sítio reprodutivo.
... Despite the wide distribution of Bittern Botaurus stellaris in the nineteenth century, it has since declined in both range and population size, mostly because of land reclamation and human persecution (Day 1978, Day and Wilson 1978, Voisin 1991, Kushlan and Hafner 2000. More recently, West European populations have further declined due to various factors, including the inadequate management of potential or suitable sites, as in the United Kingdom (Bibby andLunn 1982, Tyler et al. 1998). ...
The habitat requirements of a resident population of Bittern Botaurusstellaris were investigated during the breeding season in a Mediterranean upland wetland, with particular reference to the area's isolation from other wetlands, its small size and hydrological conditions. Vegetation structure and water-level were described and associated with booming male and nesting female distribution within the marsh. A logistic regression model showed that water-level was the only significant factor affecting the distribution of booming males, which occupied areas seasonally flooded with shallower water (< 1 m). Females nested in seasonally flooded zones, while vegetation density appeared an important variable for nesting-site choice. Management of the wet area is discussed and the importance of a better understanding of the temporal dynamics of vegetation cover and spatial and temporal variations in water-level, and their possible effects on prey distribution, is highlighted.
... Rice paddies had almost a monotypic waterbird community (Table 3), dominated by egrets and herons (Fasola and Ruiz, 1996;Bambaradeniya and Amarasinghe, 2003). In Asia, herons may now be reliant on such artificial habitat (Kushlan and Hafner, 2000;Czech and Parsons, 2002). Shorebirds and waterfowl also used paddies but in lower densities than natural wetlands (Table 3), similar to other parts of the world (Tourenq et al., 2001;Taylor and Schultz, 2008). ...
As natural wetlands have disappeared around the world, artificial wetlands have increased. We found interesting differences in waterbird communities of two natural (Bundala Ramsar site) and seven artificial wetlands (irrigation tanks, salt ponds, rice paddies) in south-east Sri Lanka. Eight species exclusively used natural and one species artificial wetlands. Migratory species (shorebirds 64%, terns 47%) dominated species’ richness of natural lagoons, with densities of shorebirds 3–6 times greater than on artificial wetlands. Contrastingly, resident species (dabbling ducks, gallinules) contributed most to the diversity (59%) and density of waterbirds on artificial irrigation tanks. Cattle egrets dominated waterbird density (>70%) of rice paddies. Waterbird communities reflected physical and chemical character of wetlands: natural wetlands were shallow (1000msm−1) compared to deep (>2m) and freshwater (EC
... Human disturbance of the island's shoreline and interior poses a threat to both the breeding and foraging grounds, and further study is needed to determine the impact of these intrusions. Repeated disturbance of the island may cause birds to abandon nesting efforts, or may lower nest success (Kushlan and Hafner 2001). Another potential threat is the introduction of predators such as rats or cats to Isla Alcatraz. ...
... Due to the scarcity of recent records and a lack of known viable populations, the bird has been classified as Critically Endangered (CR) (Collar et al. 1994;IUCN 1996), and later Endangered (EN), both globally (BirdLife International 2000, 2003 and in China (Wang and Xie 2004). It has been referred to as the most threatened heron species in the world (Kushlan and Hafner 2000), but its current distribution remains poorly known. ...
The literature on the past distribution and status of the White-eared Night Heron in China is reviewed, and updated based on recent field investigations and reports from Hubei, Jiangxi, Guangxi, Guangdong and Hainan. Recent records reveal the species to be more widespread than previously thought, but there remain many uncertainties about the area of occupancy and connectivity between known populations. The rate of discovery of new sites suggests the species may be under-recorded, but a number of recent sites have been lost, and no truly secure populations are known. There thus remains an urgent need for better information from throughout the species' range, especially from historical sites, as well as increased protection.
... The Eurasian bittern Botaurus stellaris is a vulnerable species of high-priority concern in Europe (Tucker & Heath, 1994). Habitat loss and alteration are considered as the major causes of the species' steady decline over the last few decades (Kushlan & Hafner, 2000). Bitterns are confined to shallow marshes and river deltas covered with tall emergent vegetation such as common reed Phragmites australis. ...
Few data exist on the relationships between food levels and breeding density of the Eurasian bittern Botaurus stellaris, a vulnerable species of high-priority concern in Europe. Concurrent data were obtained on male bittern density and relative food abundance over a 3-year period in two wetlands totalling 2500 ha of Mediterranean reed marsh enclosing 25% of the French bittern population. Food abundance was estimated by sampling up to 25 hydrological units using a beach seine in early June of 2002, 2003 and 2004. The density of booming males in each hydrological unit was obtained by point counts and acoustic triangulation in May of the same years. The impact of food abundance on male bittern density was assessed by general regression models using a forward stepwise procedure with mosquitofish Gambusia affinis, carp Cyprinus carpio, other fish species, amphibians, red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii and other invertebrates as prey groups. Of these, only to crayfish abundance was bittern density related, contributing to 45% of the variance observed. When the impact of water level was taken into account, the relative abundance of crayfish explained 56% of the inter-annual differences in bittern density. Because crayfish are rich in calcium and well adapted to fluctuating hydroperiods alternating with drought intervals, they provide a good food source for the bitterns throughout the breeding season at the study sites. The loss of diversity and degradation reported from macrophyte-dominated marshes following crayfish invasion does not seem to apply to reed-dominated wetlands. It is further suggested that the recent increase in bittern numbers in the Camargue, while other French populations were decreasing, could in part be related to red swamp crayfish abundance.
We examined habitat use by Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta) and Cattle Egrets (Bubulcus ibis) that nest together in mixed-species colonies in the Camargue of southern France. We explored the relative use of seven habitat types in relation to their availability and tested the hypothesis that selection of habitat types was related to foraging success, with the prediction that increased foraging success in a given habitat corresponded with increased use of that habitat type. Ricefields and other agricultural habitats were used more than expected by Cattle Egrets, an invasive species in southern Europe; whereas Little Egrets, which are native to the Camargue, tended to select natural freshwater marshes and lagoons. Results were consistent with the hypothesis that increasing use of habitats corresponded with higher foraging success for both species. However, when this analysis was restricted to habitats with sufficient numbers of birds to enable estimates of biomass intake, the association was no longer apparent for Little Egrets.
Habitat composition around nesting sites is one of the important factors that drive the colonial dynamics of waterbirds. Using a Monte Carlo procedure, we compared the changes that occurred over a period of 25 years (1975-1999) in (1) the distribution and composition of tree-nesting heron colonies and (2) the distribution and amount of rice cultivated in the Camargue region of southern France. During the period of 1967-1999, 25 sites in the Camargue were each occupied for at least one breeding season by colonies of tree-nesting herons. Total number of nests, number of nests per colony, and number of colonies varied among the four species considered. During the same period, the proportion of the study area planted with rice fluctuated widely. Overall, nests of all species tended to be located at sites surrounded by a large area of rice fields. However, examination of the results revealed a difference among species in selection of nest colony sites: Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Squacco Heron (Ardeola ralloides), and Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) seemed more inclined to nest on sites surrounded by rice fields; whereas Little Egrets' (Egretta garzetta) nest choice was not consistently related to availability of rice fields. That pattern was especially noticeable at a small scale (i.e. <5-km radius around the colony). Our spatial analysis supports previous findings on the effects of rice farming on the colony dynamics of tree-nesting herons. We conclude that different landscape scales are an important consideration for understanding colony site selection and need to be taken into account in the planning and design of agri-environmental development schemes.
This document is WEC 179, one of a series of the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date
November 2003. Reviewed August 2015. Visit the EDIS website at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu.
The purpose of this study was to understand phytosociological characteristics and changes, providing basic ecology informations based for heronries. We investigated the 25 heronries sites to have more than a hundred nests in the country. The vegetations of heronries were arranged 8 plant communities that consisted of 60 families, 129 genuses and 167 species including 17 species of exotic species. The communities of heronries were composed of high NCD (Net Contribution Degree) of plants, such as pokeberry (Phytolacca americana), japanese chaff flower (Achyranthes japonica), asiatic dayflower (Commelina communis) including diagnosis species, that was heliophilous and tolerance of eutrophic and/or acidic soil condition, and had the highest composition with the annual plants. As locational condition, they were distributed a favorite feeding place (rice field, stream etc.) inside 0.5 km radius, and located on the eastern slope of the mountain. The vegetative composition among plants in the heronries didn`t have plant sociological characteristics for environmental conditions of the sites. But generally, they had trends in floristic composition like the areas of polluted soil, open canopy and disturbance.
Data on habitat requirements of the threatened Eurasian bittern Botaurusstellaris are largely qualitative and limited to countries holding small populations. We assessed the habitat spectrum exploited by male bitterns during the breeding season, based on the analysis of 40 booming sites and 33 non-booming sites in 2,500 ha of heterogeneous reed-beds in the Camargue, France. Environmental variables contributing to booming site selection were, in decreasing order of importance, determined by their contribution to multivariate statistical models: water level in April, proportion of open water, density of dry and green reeds, percentage cover of non-reed species, salinity and turbidity of surface water, and reed height and diameter. Overall, booming sites were characterized by a homogeneous cover of relatively sparse green and dry reeds growing with other plant species in shallow (10–15 cm), clear water. Because these findings are contrary to the traditional perception of bittern habitat in Europe, a reassessment of the species' ecological requirements throughout its distributional range is warranted. In the Camargue the main factors involved in habitat selection (water level and dry reed density) are directly associated with site management, and bitterns respond rapidly to slight environmental changes.
"Water birds" are birds that live in or near aquatic environments such as the ocean, lakes, marshes, swamps, and rivers. This includes pelicans, ducks, geese, herons, egrets, gulls, terns, cormorants, etc. Feeding water birds leads to many different problems. This document is Fact Sheet WEC 179, one of a series of the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. First published November 2003. WEC 179/UW193: Why Shouldn't We Feed Water Birds? (ufl.edu)
This paper explores the role of agricultural policies on the ricefield area dynamic in the Camargue, a Mediterranean wetland of international importance for waterbird conservation. Rice is the most common crop in the Rhone delta and earlier studies have highlighted the strong complementarity of rice fields with natural habitats for waterbirds. Modifications of agriculture-environment interactions are tackled through two main bird groups, of conservation interest, using ricefields for feeding purposes: colonial herons and flamingos. The regional history, concerning land-use and rice-farming changes, reveals the ways in which the local landscape has changed as the national and supranational agricultural policies have developed since WWII. The importance of the increase of ricefield area for colonial herons as well as the role of ricefield landscape modifications on the crop damages by flamingos are examined. They illustrate how wildlife and farming interact in a complex manner, which needs to be understood in order to develop agricultural practices adapted to the environment and to promote integrated environmental policies. The authors suggest that a better understanding of the role which agricultural policies play on a region’s development history and geography is fundamental to any conservation policy analysis.
A presente dissertação de mestrado consiste em estudos realizados com uma ave
típica de manguezais no Brasil, o socó-do-mangue Nyctanassa violacea
(LINNAEUS, 1758). Essa dissertação foi dividida em capítulos. No primeiro capítulo
“Descrição do Sítio Reprodutivo do socó-do-mangue, Nyctanassa violacea
(CICONIIFORMES – ARDEIDAE), no Parque Natural Municipal do Manguezal do
Rio Perequê, no Estado do Paraná, Brasil”, realizou-se uma descrição das
características ambientais associadas ao entorno dos ninhos do socó-do-mangue
com o intuito de verificar se os locais utilizados para a nidificação do socó-domangue
são construídos de forma aleatória na UC ou se existem características
particulares comumente associadas a essas construções. E Por tudo que foi
analisado, pode-se dizer que o principal fator associado à construção dos ninhos no
PNRP é o curso d’água e o alagamento permanente ou temporário de alguns
setores. Outros fatores como a densidade da folhagem, as bifurcações dos galhos e
a altura de construção dos ninhos são também de grande importância, contudo,
parecem poder ser bem mais variáveis a ponto da inexistência de alguns destes
parâmetros não impedirem que o processo de nidificação ocorra. No segundo
capítulo “Reprodução do socó-do-mangue, Nyctanassa violacea, no Parque Natural
Municipal do Manguezal do Rio Perequê, no Estado do Paraná, Brasil”, foi verificado
o tamanho da população reprodutiva no local, avaliado o sucesso reprodutivo nos
ninhos monitorados e realizado uma caracterização os ovos desta espécie. A
população reprodutiva no parque manteve-se relativamente estável ao longo das
três estações reprodutivas monitoradas, o tamanho da postura foi semelhante ao
encontrado em outros estudos feitos no Brasil. Foi constatada uma alta taxa de
reutilização dos ninhos que permanecem de uma estação para outra e uma taxa de
50 a 60% de atividade para os ninhos que foram reconstruídos no mesmo local que
a estação anterior. As taxas de perda de ovos para filhotes Fase I foram maiores
que as taxas de perdas de filhotes Fase I para filhotes Fase II, refletindo um
desaparecimento mais expressivo de ovos do que de filhotes. No terceiro capítulo
“Caracterização da dieta do socó-do-mangue, Nyctanassa violacea, no Parque
Municipal do Manguezal do Rio Perequê, Estado do Paraná, Brasil”, efetuou-se a
caracterização da dieta do socó-do-mangue por meio da análise de regurgitos,
verificando os itens alimentares consumidos em uma área de manguezal. Os
regurgitos coletados abaixo dos ninhos apresentaram constituição semelhante ao de
outros estudos: Riegner (1982) nos EUA e MATOS (1996) na Ilha do Cajual (MA). O
socó-do-mangue consumiu uma grande variedade de espécies de caranguejos no
PNRP. A ocorrência de quelas nas classes de tamanho que variava de 5,4 a
22,11mm podem indicar uma seletividade por tamanho de presa. Assim, a despeito
de se alimentar de diferentes espécies de caranguejos no PNRP, o socó-do-mangue
adotou uma dieta especialista, consumindo muito de poucas espécies (U. cordatus,
E. limosum e Morfotipo 1) e sendo seletivo em relação aos tamanhos consumidos.
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