Marcin Polak, Maciej Filipiuk
Ornis Polonica 2014, 55: 22–33
https://doi.org/10.12657/ornis.2014.1.1
Abstract: The main aim of this study was the quantitative analysis of differences and similarities in breeding habitats selection of the Barred Warbler and Red-backed Shrike in the area of co-occurrence. In 2012 and 2013, 20 territorial pairs of the Barred Warbler and 32–33 territorial pairs of the Red-backed Shrike bred on the study plot in the Middle Roztocze region (south-eastern Poland). Annually, 31–42% of the shrike pairs bred in close proximity of warblers. Habitat preferences of the studied species were investigated using the Jacob’s habitat selectivity index. Bushes and fallows were preferred, while arable fields were avoided by both species. Analysis of nest heights above ground indicated vertical separation of the studied species – shrikes nested higher in the bushes than warblers, however, both species preferred similar height of nesting bushes. The results have important implications for an effective conservation strategy for areas with large and viable populations of these threatened species.
Keywords: Barred Warbler, habitat selection, Lanius collurio, Red-backed Shrike, Sylvia nisoria
