| Title |
Ecological trap effects in migratory European pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) nesting in pest outbreak-affected forests / |
| Authors |
Adams, Colton B ; Krams, Ronalds ; Elferts, Didzis ; Brūmelis, Guntis ; Dauškane, Iluta ; Strode, Linda ; Šmits, Agnis ; Trakimas, Giedrius ; Krams, Indrikis A ; Krama, Tatjana |
| DOI |
10.3390/birds6020027 |
| Full Text |
|
| Is Part of |
Birds.. Basel : MDPI. 2025, vol. 6, iss. 2, art. no. 27, p. [1-15].. ISSN 2673-6004 |
| Keywords [eng] |
ecological traps ; food resources ; fitness costs ; pied flycatcher ; migratory birds ; habitat selection ; pest outbreaks |
| Abstract [eng] |
Migratory bird species face numerous threats during their annual journeys, including habitat loss and degradation in breeding and non-breeding areas. Ecological traps, which occur when a habitat appears attractive based on environmental cues but are actually harmful for raising offspring, may be a significant factor in reduced breeding success for both migratory and resident birds. These traps may arise from human land-use changes or even well-intentioned conservation actions, such as providing nest boxes. In our study, we found that pest outbreaks occurring after the arrival of European Pied Flycatchers, a migratory species, severely degraded forest habitat quality. Because degraded pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests were visually indistinguishable from healthy ones early in the season, the birds selected nest sites in affected areas and subsequently suffered reduced reproductive success. Compared to birds nesting in unaffected forests, offspring from pest-affected areas had a lower body mass and tarsus length, and were less likely to fledge successfully. Our findings suggest that conservation tools, like nest boxes, must be used with caution in forests experiencing pest outbreaks, as they may unintentionally attract birds to unsuitable breeding habitats. |
| Published |
Basel : MDPI |
| Type |
Journal article |
| Language |
English |
| Publication date |
2025 |
| CC license |
|
