Breeding Losses in the Collared FlycatcherFicedula albicollisCaused by Nest Predators in the Białowieża National Park (Poland)

Abstract

The proportion of different nest predators robbing nests of the Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis population breeding in natural cavities in the Białowieża National Park was studied during 1988–1998. Robbed nests were examined for signs betraying the predator. Mustelids, (mostly Martes martes) destroyed no more than 25% of the Collared Flycatcher nests, while rodents (mostly Apodemus flavicollis), and woodpeckers (Picoides major) were together responsible for the destruction of c. 75% of all the Collared Flycatchers broods. Rodents destroyed significantly more nests with eggs, whereas woodpeckers and Martes martes destroyed mostly broods with nestlings.