Predation by mustelids and rodents on the eggs and chicks of native and introduced birds in Kowhai Bush, New Zealand

摘要: Prior to human settlement the endemic New Zealand avifauna evolved in absence of mammalian predators. Subsequently mustelids, rodents and feral cats have become established frequently prey on birds nests. It has been suggested that, because their evolutionary history, are especially susceptible such In this paper predation by mustelids eggs nestlings eight species native bird is compared with that five introduced European passerine inhabiting same lowland forest. Final outcomes were known for 101 nests 48 found during three breeding seasons. There was no significant difference between two groups frequency predation. Native lost 70-1% predators 64-6%. Most predations occurred egg stage. Clutch size did not influence predation, but brood Fantails birds. Stoats weasels responsible 77-9% 77-4% birds; corresponding percentages (principally ship rats) 14-7% 19-4%. Mustelids destroyed proportionately more chicks than eggs, whereas reverse. Predation both influenced nesting habitat, tree used nesting, or height position nest. The vulnerability discussed relation historical declines many species, also life-history patterns.