The Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone corvina on La Digue: population size, habitat requirements and management options

Abstract

SummaryThe conservation of the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher on La Digue is reviewed and compared with an earlier investigation (1978). The status of the bird and its habitat on the western plateau, which holds nearly 80% of the world population, was investigated, as was the Special Reserve, notably the validity of the present boundary and the need for management initiatives. The population on the western plateau has changed little in 10 years, with one pair less but more individuals, and there has been a small (<5%) decline in preferred breeding habitat. The number of pairs using the reserve was unchanged from 1978. The carrying capacity is small (c.6 pairs). Only one significant trend was isolated in an investigation of 10 habitat variables, suggesting that more birds occurred where trees were larger. The reserve boundary should be redrawn to include a significant part of the main freshwater marsh: earlier study showed that highest densities were found in woodland close to wetland, and conservation of the marsh is vital. The reserve requires a non-interventionist woodland policy, creation of ponds to extend wetland, improved boundary marking, provision of interpretation facilities and development of educational use. Away from the reserve, statutory zonation of land on the plateau for woodland and sustainable timber production is needed as part of an overall land-use policy.