Importance of Algarrobo trees (Prosopis flexuosa) for territory establishment of three seed-eating passerine species in the central Monte desert

SAGARIO, M.C.; CUETO, V.R.

ARDEA

NEDERLANDSE ORNITHOLOGISCHE UNIE

Año: 2021 vol. 109 p. 251 - 257

0373-2266

The study of habitat selection by birds is crucialto understand their requirements and promote their conservation. Inthe central Monte desert, Argentina, changes in abundance and feedingsite selection by seed-eating birds in relation to trees(particularly Algarrobos Propopisflexuosa) is apparent during thebreeding season, but patterns dilute during autumn and winter. Inorder to understand habitat selection by these birds we assessed theimportance of Algarrobos during the defense and establishment ofbreeding territories for the three most common resident seed-eatingbirds (Ringed Warbling- Finch Microspingustorquatus, Many-colored Chaco-FinchSaltatricula multicolor,and Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichiacapensis). All species selectedAlgarrobo trees (Prosopis flexuosa)as song posts, and also the height, density and spatial configurationof these trees were features associated with the selection ofterritories. The patterns of selection we found in previouslyunexplored spatial scales (territory and within-territory) andbehaviors (territorial defense) provided plausible explanations toseasonal shifts in the use of space reported for these species. Ourwork highlights how the study of several bird behaviors at differentspatial scales and time of the year are essential to identify keyelements of the environment. As in many arid regions, tall scatteredtrees are keystone features of the central Monte, and managementplans should be implemented in order to prevent the currentdegradation and loss of this arid woodlands.