Woodland structure, rather than tree identity, determines the breeding habitat of Willow Warblers Phylloscopus trochilus in the northwest of England

Stostad, Hanna N. and Menéndez, Rosa (2014) Woodland structure, rather than tree identity, determines the breeding habitat of Willow Warblers Phylloscopus trochilus in the northwest of England. Bird Study, 61 (2). pp. 246-254. ISSN 0006-3657

Abstract

Capsule Woodland structure, rather than tree species, is the most important determinant of breeding habitat selection by Willow Warblers in North West England. Aims To examine how habitat characteristics predict the occurrence of male Willow Warbler territories. Methods Woodland structure (trunk density, trunk diameter, canopy cover and understory cover), tree species and food abundance were compared between woodland areas within and outside of male territories at a site in the UK. Results Territories contained higher trunk numbers, had a narrow range of trunk diameters, and intermediate canopy cover. Food abundance did not differ with occupancy. Willow and alder were the most common trees within territories, in contrast to birch which has been found in previous studies. The habitat structure matches young woodlands, where birches often grow. However, at the study site the birches were large and mature, and therefore unsuitable. Moreover, woodland structure variables were better predictors of occupancy than any particular tree genera. Conclusion The results indicate that vegetation structure, but not tree species or food availability, influence breeding habitat selection by Willow Warblers. The preferred structure is similar to coppice woodlands; therefore, the Willow Warbler decline may be linked to the loss of this traditional management across south England.