Song sparrows vs. cowbird brood parasites: impacts of forest structure and nest-site selection

Article Abstract:

The influence of nest-site selection and habitat structure on parasitism by brown-headed Cowbirds was determined by examining the reproductive ecology of Song Sparrows in riparian forests. While habitat structure was found to affect the probability of parasitism, concealing host movements in the vicinity of the nest through a lateral cover could reduce its incidence. However, an abundant foliage cover may fuel parasitism as it provides female cowbirds with perches to watch host activities and find nests. Findings imply that proper management and restoration efforts may reduce parasitism.

Behavior

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Brood parasitism, nest predation, and season-long reproductive success of a tropical island endemic

Article Abstract:

Effects of parasitism and predation on the reproductive success of the Puerto Rican Vireo indicated its seasonal mortality. Demographic information determined the prospects for long term persistence of the species. Significant causes of low reproduction were native and exotic nest predators and nest parasitism by the shiny cowbird. Despite its high survival rate, the impact of parasitism on reproduction output and high predation rate suggests an imbalance mortality on Vireos.

Birds, Animal reproduction

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Nest predation and cowbird parasitism create a demographic sink in wetland-breeding Song Sparrows

Article Abstract:

The reproductive performance of Song Sparrows on islands of varying degrees of isolation off the southwest coast of British Columbia were explored over a period of four breeding seasons. Poor reproduction of Song Sparrows were caused by high population density, insufficient food supply, nest predation and brood parasitism by cowbirds low survival. Estimates were caused by deaths of adults and lack of breeding dipersal between years.

Competition (Biology)

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