Abstract
We studied nest-destroying behavior in Cactus Wrens (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) using experimental nests containing Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica) eggs. Because wrens did not consume the egg contents, the behavior is not predation. Wrens attacked nests only within their own territories but often in vegetation not used as nesting substrate. Hence, the behavior probably does not represent attempts at cuckoldry or mate displacement, or competition for nest sites. Nest destruction may represent intraspecific or interspecific competition for (1) food or (2) predator-free nesting space. Evidence supporting these nonexclusive hypotheses are that food limits reproductive success in this population of wrens, and nest predation was density dependent in this population (natural nests surrounded by experimental nests showed higher predation rates than controls). Major predators included snakes, especially whipsnakes (Masticophis spp.), which are able to access Cactus Wren nests despite cholla (Opuntia spp.) spines.
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