An integrated analysis of micro- and macro-habitat features as a tool to detect weather-driven constraints: A case study with cavity nesters.

摘要: The effects of climate change on animal populations may be shaped by habitat characteristics at both micro- and macro-habitat level, however, empirical studies integrating these two scales observation are lacking. As analyses the commonly rely data from a much larger scale than microhabitat level organisms affected at, this mismatch risks hampering progress in developing understanding details ecological evolutionary responses and, ultimately, effective actions to preserve their populations. Cavity nesters, often with conservation status concern, an ideal model because cavity is microenvironment potentially different macroenvironment but nonetheless inevitably interacting it. lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni) nester which was until recently classified as Vulnerable species. Since 2004, for nine years, we collected detailed biotic abiotic macro-scales population breeding Gela Plain (Italy), Mediterranean area where high temperatures reach lethal values nest content. We show that macroclimatic features needed integrated factors recorded microscale before reliably predicting temperatures. Among types used kestrels, detected preferential occupation cooler types, roof tiles, early breeders whereas, paradoxically, late nesting hotter occupied overheated holes. Not consistent such suggested selection, coolest type did not host higher reproductive success nests. discussed our findings light deployed within assessed selected scales.