Nest‐site selection by Slender‐billed Parakeets in a Chilean agricultural‐forest mosaic

摘要: ABSTRACT Species in the family Psittacidae may be particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic habitat transformations that reduce availability of suitable breeding sites at different spatial scales. In southern Chile, loss native forest cover due agricultural conversion impact populations Slender-billed Parakeets (Enicognathus leptorhynchus), endemic secondary cavity-nesting psittacids. Our objective was assess nest-site selection by an agricultural-forest mosaic Chile two scales: nest trees and surrounding those trees. During 2008–2009 seasons, we identified (N= 31) observing parakeet behavior using information provided local residents. Most (29/31) nests were mature Nothofagus obliqua By comparing used for nesting with randomly selected, unused trees, found probability a tree being selected as site positively related number cavity entrances, less dead crown, more basal injuries (e.g., fire scars). At nesting-habitat scale, associated extent entrances within 50 m These variables are likely important because they allow parakeets minimize search times potential areas, thereby reducing energetic demands exposure predators. thus use hierarchical process select sites; after patch is chosen, then inspect individual site. Effective strategies ensure persistence mosaics should include preservation both groups scattered