Avifauna changes along a Eucalyptus regeneration gradient

Abstract

Birds were surveyed at six sites within Eucalyptus macrorhyncha–E. rossii (Red Stringybark–Inland Scribbly Gum) woodland in the Peel landscape north of Bathurst, New South Wales. These sites were paired and represented three stages along a regeneration gradient following clearing and grazing. Over the two-and-a-half years of surveying 47 bird species were recorded. Generally, a decrease in the number of species and individual birds was recorded along the gradient with time since disturbance. Moving along the regeneration gradient, a succession in the bird fauna was evident, although 15 species were recorded across all stages. The avifauna along this regeneration gradient was dominated by species that predominantly forage and move within the tree canopy. Microhabitat use by birds varied seasonally, particularly within early regeneration sites. This study highlights the need to consider, at local and landscape scales, the effects on avifauna of the restoration activities currently underway throughout Australia.