Breeding ecology of the endangered Algerian Nuthatch (Sitta ledanti) endemic to the Babors′ Kabylia (Northeastern Algeria): Implications of conservation

Abstract

Abstract The endemic Algerian Nuthatch Sitta ledanti, is classified as an endangered species by the IUCN and protected species by Algerian law. Available information on its nesting and breeding biology is sporadic and incomplete, the purpose of which is to provide additional data on the different aspects of multi-site nesting of the species. 22 nests are monitored across five forests, during the nesting season of 2021. An endoscopic camera was used to monitor eggs and nestlings in the nests during the whole study. Most of the nests (n = 20) were constructed in different parts of the dead trees such as trunks or branches of the Atlas cedar Cedrus atlantica, the Algerian oak Quercus canariensis, the African oak Quercus afares or Cork oak Quercus suber. The laying dates were from early April to the end of May when April 28 (± 13 days) is the laying season’s median start date. The average clutch size was 4.6 (n = 21). The mean hatching success was 89.2%, while mean fledging success was 88.2%. The nestling sex ratio was 14 males versus 18 females. Data on clutch dates and fecundity of breeding pairs should be considered in any conservation approach and strategy in the context of habitat management and preservation.