Breeding numbers and stand type preferences of Redstarts Phoenicurus phoenicurus and Tree Pipits Anthus trivialis in a Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris wood

Abstract

Capsule Old‐growth stands within an ancient native pinewood in Scotland provide an important habitat for both species. Aims To obtain estimates of densities and total numbers of male Redstarts and Tree Pipits in a native pinewood, and to describe forest stand type preferences. Methods Singing males were recorded along transects in Abernethy Forest, comprising ancient native pinewood and Scots Pine plantations, to estimate densities and numbers (by distance sampling), and to assess stand type selection (using Manly and Jacobs’ indices). A check was made to ensure that singing was sustained throughout the survey period. Results The density and total numbers for Redstarts were 7.6 males per km2 (95% CL 5.8–10.1) and 290 males (95% CL 220–380). For Tree Pipits, there were 7.3 males per km2 (5.5–9.8) and 275 males (210–370). Higher densities occurred in the stands of preferred old‐growth woodland: 15.1 Redstart males per km2 (95% CL 10.7–21.3) and 15.6 Tree Pipit males per km2 (95% CL 10.6–22.9). Redstarts selected stands of high crown trees, mature open and old open woodland and bog pines. Tree Pipits selected stands of high crown trees and old open woodland. Conclusion The old‐growth stands of Scots Pine were preferred by Redstarts and Tree Pipits. This study supports the current management to protect and expand such stands within Abernethy Forest, but more old‐growth woodland is required elsewhere in Scotland.