Nest Removal Research Articles

A Study of an Agricultural Indoor Robot for Harvesting Edible Bird Nests in Vietnam

This study demonstrates robot technology for harvesting edible bird’s nests within swiftlet houses. A comprehensive manipulator’s movement analysis of harvesting operation with a separating tool is provided for precisely collecting swiftlet nests. A robotic manipulator mounted on a mobile platform with a vision system is also analyzed and evaluated in this study. The actual harvesting or separating the swiftlet nests is performed with visual servo feedback. The manipulator performs the gross motions of separating tools and removing the nests under computer control with velocity and position feedback. The separating principle between the objective nest and wooden frame has been applied to a demonstration removal of nests using a four-degrees-of-freedom manipulator to perform the gross movements of tool. The actual separations using this system are accomplished as fast as the manipulator can be controlled to perform the necessary deceleration and topping at the end of separating. This is typically 2.0 s. This efficiency underscores the system’s capability for swift and precise operation in harvesting an edible bird nest task.

Effects of dominant ant species on ant community structure and ant–hemipteran interactions

Ants often interact aggressively for resources (e.g. nest sites and food) with members of their own or another species. In these competitive interactions, dominant ant species exert a strong influence on ant species coexistence and plant‐associated arthropod community structure. However, few studies have experimentally manipulated the relative abundance of dominant ant species on plants, preventing a mechanistic understanding of the effects of ant competitive interactions on ant community structure as well as on their interactions with other insects, particularly mutualistic hemipterans. In this study, we performed a field experiment in a tropical dry forest in Brazil to investigate the effects of two dominant ant species (Camponotus crassus and Cephalotes pusillus) on the structure ant communities and the abundance of the ant‐tended hemipteran Enchenopa brasiliensis in Solanum lycocarpum plants. For this, we identified and quantified all ant species foraging on plants and estimated the number of egg masses, nymphs and adults of the mutualistic hemipteran before and after experimentally removing nests of both two dominant ant species. Our results showed that removal of C. pusillus nests significantly changed ant community structure, whereas removal of C. crassus nests did not. We also found that nest removal of both dominant ant species had significant effects on hemipteran abundance. In particular, plants generally hosted more hemipteran eggs, nymphs and adults after (vs before) nest removal of both dominant ant species. Overall, this study demonstrates that dominant ant species can play a pivotal role in structuring ant communities and the interactions between ants and honeydew‐producing hemipteran insects.

Proximity to anthropogenic food sources determine roosting and nesting prevalence of feral pigeons (Columba livia) in a tropical city

AbstractThe feral pigeon (Columba livia) is a globally commensal bird that can cause dis‐amenities such as soiling and is a potential vector of various diseases. Aside to limiting food as a management strategy, reducing the availability of roosting and nesting sites can help regulate feral pigeon populations. Despite their prevalence, current knowledge of their roosting and nesting preferences is lacking.Feral pigeons commonly use railway viaduct expansion gaps in Singapore for roosting and nesting. These gaps provided an ideal experimental platform to examine feral pigeon roost and nest site selection while controlling for differing cavity sizes which can significantly affect their reproductive success and site selection decisions. We also conducted an in‐situ experiment to test the efficacy of nest removal as a management option.Our nationwide surveys of 80.3 km of railway viaducts and 6048 gaps revealed that feral pigeon day roosting and nesting preferences are influenced by structural height and more importantly, their proximity to human food sources. There was a significantly higher probability of feral pigeon roosting in a gap if it had more pigeon feeding incidences in its vicinity and was higher. The probability of feral pigeon nesting in gap was higher if it was closer to a railway station, lower and further from water bodies.In our field experiment, we did not find any significant differences in the proportions of the abundances of feral pigeon to other urban commensal bird species at the gaps before and after nests were removed.Overall, our results suggest that a concerted effort to reduce anthropogenic food availability to feral pigeons is central in limiting their reproductive success and controlling their population.

Managing conflict between nesting common terns and herring gulls

Context Due to the frequent depredation of eggs and chicks by herring gulls (Larus argentatus), numerous approaches to reduce their impact on tern colonies have been tested by wildlife managers. Previous studies have shown that the use of overhead lines presents a promising method to prevent gull nesting in tern colonies, but little work has evaluated if this approach is suitable for excluding both nesting and non-nesting gulls. Aims The goal of this study was to explore the efficacy of a preventative approach, overhead lines, versus a more widely practiced lethal approach, shooting and trapping. Specifically, we aimed to determine if methods differ in their abilities to deter both gull nesting and presence within treatment areas and identify impacts on common tern (Sterna hirundo) nesting within treatment areas. Methods We applied separate management strategies to two common tern colonies. In one colony, we removed herring gulls via shooting followed by trapping and nest removal, and in the other colony, we erected overhead lines with subsequent trapping at nests established in the treatment area. Key results Gulls appeared to adapt quickly to shooting efforts, limiting efficacy and resulting in no significant change in abundance from pre-treatment levels (P = 0.981). However, gull use of both the colony and surrounding brush declined significantly (P < 0.001) following trapping and nest removal. Meanwhile, the number of gulls in the colony area declined from a pre-treatment average of 56 to only six, following the erection of overhead lines (P < 0.001). Although six gull nests were established within the treatment area (overhead lines), they were not replaced once the parents were trapped and nests destroyed. Conclusions Tern nesting appeared to be unaffected by any of the implemented management activities. Our data suggest that overhead lines may present an alternative to lethal control when seeking to minimise the impacts of gulls on tern colonies. Implications The data presented in this manuscript can be used to guide managers in selecting actions to reduce conflict between gulls and breeding common terns. By using data-informed practices, managers can select the method best suited for their specific needs and priorities.

Reprodução do black-bass invasor Micropterus salmoides (Lacepède, 1802) em um reservatório neotropical, com sugestões para manejo e controle

Abstract Aim The largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides was introduced in more than 50 countries for the purpose of sport fishing. In Brazil, records date from 1922, and nowadays many populations are known to occur in the southern region. Here we investigated the reproductive biology of this species in a small reservoir in southern Brazil, to understand the role of the reproductive strategy in the invasion process and assist in its management. We conclude with suggestions for the management in local scale, as this species can bring relevant problems to the public supply through trophic cascade and other negative effects. Methods Samples were performed with different methods, between May 2011 and April 2012. All fishes were measured, and the reproductive season was determined through the relative frequency of reproductive stages and the gonadosomatic index. Sex ratio was calculated monthly and for each total length (TL) class and compared with the estimates presented in the literature. Total length at maturity (L50, length at which 50% of the individuals were mature) was estimated for females, males and the entire study population. Results A total of 565 individuals of M. salmoides were analyzed. Overall sex-ratio did not differ significantly. The monthly distribution of the gonadosomatic index for females and males showed higher values between August (late winter) and November 2011 (austral spring). ��-Binomial modelling of sex-ratio data of native (n=1) and introduced populations (n=7) showed a lower proportion of females in its native range. All individuals > 21.5 cm TL were mature (L95), and L50 was calculated at 18.7 cm TL. After the reproductive period, an increase in the abundance of young individuals (≤ 7.0 cm TL) was registered, corresponding to 50% of all individuals collected. The relative frequency of mature individuals and the variation in the gonadosomatic index indicate a prolonged spawning period during the austral spring, coinciding with the increase in temperature. Conclusions Results suggested that some changes in life history traits, such as the early sexual maturation and the long reproductive period, coupled with a remarkable adaptability, may have facilitated the establishment of M. salmoides populations in this reservoir. The illegal and intentional stocking by anglers plays a central role in the introduction and dispersal of M. salmoides in Brazil. We encourage studies on the sanitary quality of this fish for human consumption, so that massive campaigns of education the population to encourage capture and consumption are implemented by the competent authorities as a control measure in local scale, combined with targeted samplings with artificial baits during the reproductive period, identification, and removal of nests and fingerlings using electric fishing or trap nets during the recruitment period.

Management of European Starlings in an American Kestrel Nest Box Program

ABSTRACT Artificial nest boxes have played an important role in American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) conservation worldwide, facilitating nesting and research efforts. However, these conservation efforts frequently unintentionally facilitate other cavity-nesting species including the European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), a widespread invasive species in North America. Understanding how to deter European Starlings from occupying nest boxes is an essential responsibility of project design when deploying nest boxes. We examined the efficacy of five different abatement methods to mitigate the use of our nest boxes by European Starlings: nest removal, nest and egg removal, egg shaking, egg cracking, and egg oiling. We found spraying European Starling eggs with 100% food-grade corn oil and cracking eggs to be the most effective abatement methods. We recommend future American Kestrel nest box programs in this region use egg oiling or egg cracking on European Starling eggs.

Of Fears and Budgets: Strategies of Control in Vespa velutina Invasion and Lessons for Best Management Practices

Implementing management practices for the control of invasive species can be a complex task with multiple dimensions, where the identification of stakeholders and drivers of those practices is of paramount importance. The invasive hornet Vespa velutina has spread across Europe and Asia from its native range in SE Asia in recent years. A common control method is the removal and destruction of its nests on citizens’ request to call centers. In this paper we have explored the knowledge and main factors that influence the perceptions of the citizens on the species in an invaded municipality in NW Spain, as well as the management practices of the municipal emergency unit responsible for nest removal activities. Our analysis brings out multiple drivers of management practices that derive both from the citizens’ and practitioners’ knowledge, and highlights several points of conflict between both stakeholder groups connected to (1) the degree of service provided to the local population, (2) the risk of allergic reactions as a motive to urge removals, or (3) the quality of information provided by mass media. Our results support the crucial importance of environmental education programs that seek to increase the knowledge of the general public about the threats of invasive species. Such programs might be incorporated to implement and optimize management plans of V. velutina by enhancing communication between experts and local population.

Método potencial para otimização de captura e manejo de abelhas nativas sem ferrão (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) em iscas atrativas

Currently, pollinators are suffering an accelerated decline in their biodiversity due to factors such as pesticides, habitat loss, climate change and competition between exotic species. Bees are among the most important agents of pollination and those of the Meliponini tribe have been gaining prominence due to the spread of rational breeding practices. These practices can positively contribute to recreational, educational and commercial exploitation of the products produced. Despite widespread practices, and the various existing initiatives to regulate the creation and quality of honey, little has been proposed to improve techniques for obtaining colonies. In order to examine the potential use of an optimized technique for handling the removal of nests captured on attractive baits, a sheet of parchment paper was included as a coating inside two baits, in order to verify if this process does not interfere in obtaining the colony. and would facilitate its removal without damaging internal structures, improving handling. In the two attempts carried out, there was success in capturing swarms of the Jataí species (Tetragonisca angustula Latreille, 1811; Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) between three and five days after the installation of the bait. After the establishment of the swarm, the potential for the use of tracing paper was observed, which not only facilitated the handling and avoided the stress of the bees during the transfer but was even used for the construction of the nest by the bees of this species.

Prolactin promotes parental responses and alters reproductive axis gene expression, but not courtship behaviors, in both sexes of a biparental bird

Prolactin, a hormone involved in vertebrate parental care, is hypothesized to inhibit reproductive hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activity during parenting, thus maintaining investment in the current brood as opposed to new reproductive efforts. While prolactin underlies many parental behaviors in birds, its effects on other reproductive behaviors, such as courtship, remain unstudied. How prolactin affects neuropeptide and hormone receptor expression across the avian HPG axis also remains unknown. To address these questions, we administered ovine prolactin (oPRL) or a vehicle control to both sexes in experienced pairs of the biparental rock dove (Columba livia), after nest removal at the end of incubation. We found that oPRL promoted parental responses to novel chicks and stimulated crop growth compared to controls, consistent with other studies. However, we found that neither courtship behaviors, copulation rates nor pair maintenance differed with oPRL treatment. Across the HPG, we found oPRL had little effect on gene expression in hypothalamic nuclei, but increased expression of FSHB and hypothalamic hormone receptor genes in the pituitary. In the gonads, oPRL increased testes size and gonadotropin receptor expression, but did not affect ovarian state or small white follicle gene expression. However, the oviducts of oPRL-treated females were smaller and had lower estrogen receptor expression compared with controls. Our results highlight that some species, especially those that show multiple brooding, may continue to express mating behavior despite elevated prolactin. Thus, mechanisms may exist for prolactin to promote investment in parental care without concurrent inhibition of reproductive function or HPG axis activity.

Genetic and morphological variation of Vespa velutina nigrithorax which is an invasive species in a mountainous area

The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) is an invasive species in South Korea with negative economic, ecological, and public health impacts. We investigated genetic and morphological variation in the species populations on Mt. Jiri, the tallest mountain in South Korea. We hypothesized that a high-altitude would be negatively correlated with the genetic diversity of the hornet population, and hornet wing morphology would change with an increase in altitude. Our results showed that the genetic diversity of yellow-legged hornets did not decrease as altitude increased. Regardless of the altitude, the inbreeding coefficient was high at the newly colonized sites. A single genetic population occurred in the mountainous areas examined and gradually expanded its range. Wing morphology, especially shape, did not change with an increase in altitude or decrease in temperature. Although snow cover and cool temperatures at high altitudes could limit nest-building activities, they did not prevent the extension of the range of the species. Therefore, the yellow-legged hornet cannot be controlled naturally by climate or topography; combined approaches, including chemical control, nest removal, and bait-trapping techniques should be implemented.

Estimating allowable take for an increasing bald eagle population in the United States

AbstractEffectively managing take of wildlife resulting from human activities poses a major challenge for applied conservation. Demographic data essential to decisions regarding take are often expensive to collect and are either not available or based on limited studies for many species. Therefore, modeling approaches that efficiently integrate available information are important to improving the scientific basis for sustainable take thresholds. We used the prescribed take level (PTL) framework to estimate allowable take for bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in the conterminous United States. We developed an integrated population model (IPM) that incorporates multiple sources of information and then use the model output as the scientific basis for components of the PTL framework. Our IPM is structured to identify key parameters needed for the PTL and to quantify uncertainties in those parameters at the scale at which the United States Fish and Wildlife Service manages take. Our IPM indicated that mean survival of birds >1 year old was high and precise (0.91, 95% CI = 0.90–0.92), whereas mean survival of first‐year eagles was lower and more variable (0.69, 95% CI = 0.62–0.78). We assumed that density dependence influenced recruitment by affecting the probability of breeding, which was highly imprecise and estimated to have declined from approximately 0.988 (95% CI = 0.985–0.993) to 0.66 (95% CI = 0.34–0.99) between 1994 and 2018. We sampled values from the posterior distributions of the IPM for use in the PTL and estimated that allowable take (e.g., permitted take for energy development, incidental collisions with human made structures, or removal of nests for development) ranged from approximately 12,000 to 20,000 individual eagles depending on risk tolerance and form of density dependence at the scale of the conterminous United States excluding the Southwest. Model‐based thresholds for allowable take can be inaccurate if the assumptions of the underlying framework are not met, if the influence of permitted take is under‐estimated, or if undetected population declines occur from other sources. Continued monitoring and use of the IPM and PTL frameworks to identify key uncertainties in bald eagle population dynamics and management of allowable take can mitigate this potential bias, especially where improved information could reduce the risk of permitting non‐sustainable take.

Delayed timing of breeding attempts, but not time lost to nest construction, reduces the annual reproductive output of the Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe)

For many birds, nest construction is a costly aspect of parental care, trading finite energetic resources between parental care and self-maintenance. For multi-brooded organisms with short breeding seasons, such as migratory passerines, repeated nest construction could be especially costly if the activity delays the onset of breeding attempts. Earlier studies on passerines that reuse nests between breeding seasons suggested that time lost to initial nest construction reduces seasonal reproductive output. However, costs associated with building new nests between breeding attempts, within the same breeding season, have largely been ignored. Here, we experimentally removed first nests, after fledging or failing, of Eastern Phoebes ( Sayornis phoebe), to evaluate how the annual onset of breeding and nest construction between breeding attempts affected parental investment into second attempts. We found that first egg laying date negatively predicted the probability of second breeding attempts, but experimental treatment (first nest removal vs. control) did not. Neither first egg laying date nor treatment statistically influenced any of the reproductive traits in second breeding attempts (clutch size, nestling body condition, and nestling growth rate). We conclude that in this species, second breeding attempts are limited by the initial onset of seasonal reproduction, and not by time lost to nest construction between breeding attempts.

Using community-based interviews to determine population size, distribution and nest site characteristics of Pallas's fish eagle in north-east Bangladesh

AbstractPallas's fish eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus was recategorized from Vulnerable to Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2017 because of evidence that there is only a single population, which is declining as a result of continuous, widespread loss and degradation of freshwater wetlands. To determine the species’ status in Bangladesh, we conducted a large-scale community-based interview survey in north-east Bangladesh in 2017–2020. We also examined nest site habitat characteristics through field surveys and remotely sensed data. We conducted a total of 955 interviews in an area of 4,150 km2, through which we were able to determine the presence of 53 breeding pairs at a mean density of 1.2 nests per 100 km2. There was a higher nest density (3.7–4.8 nests per 100 km2) in some locations, which we identify as priority conservation areas. The majority of nests (62.2%) were close together and on tall trees with an open canopy structure. Nests were located within or close to (< 100 m) human settlements, and within 500 m of wetlands and rivers. Felling of nest trees, removal of nests by local people and loss of permanent wetlands (14.6% during 2010–2020) appeared to be the main threats. High nesting density in our study area suggests that the freshwater wetlands in north-east Bangladesh possibly hold the largest population of Pallas's fish eagle globally.

Do We Impact Neighboring Nests When Managing for House Sparrows on Nest-Box Trails?

Nest-box trails designed for Sialia sialis (Eastern Bluebird) increase viable nesting sites for several native bird species as well as invasive species such as Passer domesticus (House Sparrow). The management technique of egg and nest removal is purported to cause sparrow usurpation at neighboring boxes. We studied the behavior of nesting House Sparrow pairs before, during, and after application of 2 management treatments: egg swapping and nest removal. Video surveillance did not detect House Sparrows visiting neighboring boxes during the management period. After the removal treatment, 42% of the pairs renested in the same nest box. We also tested the hypothesis that nest removal may shift sparrow interference to neighboring boxes spaced on average 170 m apart. In the week after management, 91% of boxes neighboring a managed box proceeded without incident, which was not different from the outcomes of boxes in areas without sparrow competition. We conclude that nest-box failure does not correlate with management technique at this study site.

Reproductive behaviour and the effects of substrate on the reproduction of annual killifish ( Hypsolebias flagellatus )

This work aimed to evaluate two types of substrate for egg production by annual killifish (Hypsolebias flagellatus) and to describe the reproductive behaviour of males and females. Experiment I, with two phases, tested two types of substrates: coconut shell powder (CP) and brown 100% acrylic wool (AW), with five male–female pairs in each treatment. In Phase 1, reproduction was monitored for 45 days. In Phase 2, AW nests were replaced by CP nests and reproduction monitored for another 45 days. Experiment II, with three phases, involved installing a camera and inserting a CP nest in each of five aquariums with one pair in each. Phase 1 began after 5 days of adaptation and involved observing the pairs for 4 days. Phase 2 began on the fifth day with the removal of nests followed by observation for 48 h. In Phase 3, the nests were returned and the pairs were observed for another 4 days. Phase 1 of Experiment I found higher egg production with CP substrate (p < 0.05). In Phase 2, egg production did not differ significantly between treatments (p > 0.05) after AW substrate was replaced by CP. Phase 2 of Experiment II found almost no interaction between the sexes. Both sexes spending most of their time close to the nest (p < 0.05). The frequency of nest entry and exit was higher for males than for females in both Phase 1 and Phase 3 (p < 0.05). The CP substrate showed better results for the reproduction of H. flagellatus than did the AW substrate.

Medical care at amass gathering music festival : Retrospective study over 7 years (2011-2017).

BackgroundKnowledge about longitudinal changes in epidemiological data at mass gathering events is sparse. The goal of this study was to determine and compare the type, severity and frequency of illnesses at a large music festival over 7 consecutive years (2011–2017).MethodsProspectively collected data from the rescue operation protocols of an Austrian music festival were retrieved and analyzed. Patient presentation rates (PPR) and transport to hospital rates (TTHR) were calculated and compared between years. Linear regression was used to investigate the association between (a) total number of visitors and number of patient presentations, and (b) environmental factors and temperature related medical emergencies. A descriptive analysis of pertinent medical logistics management was performed.ResultsThe median (minimum to maximum) PPR and TTHR were 12.01 (9.33 in 2016 to 20.86 in 2011) and 0.57 (0.40 in 2017 to 1.06 in 2013) per 1000 visitors, respectively. In linear regression models, no significant associations were found between the number of visitors and either the total number of patient presentations, NACA 1–2 or NACA 3–5 classified emergencies.Environmental temperature had a significant impact on heat related patient presentations (p < 0.001).ConclusionThere were significant differences and a high variance in both PPR and TTHR over the years. Contrary to our expectations, the number of visitors did not predict the number of patient presentations. Ambient temperature was associated with the number of heat related emergencies but not with the number of cold related emergencies. Prevention strategies, such as the removal of insect nests, resulted in significantly fewer insect related emergencies.

Six years of controlling the invasive species Vespa velutina in a Mediterranean island: The promising results of an eradication plan.

The yellow-legged hornet, Vespa velutina nigrithorax, is an invasive alien species (IAS) which was accidentally introduced in Europe from Asia. This social insect preys primarily on honeybees but also on other pollinators and insects. Consequently, the establishment of this pest has a negative impact on biodiversity, pollination and economy. There is no clear coordination and uniformed methods for eradication measures between countries. Here we present the first field study of the strategy of eradication of the pest species V. velutina that has been conducted in the westernmost Mediterranean archipelago. We investigated the combination of different eradication methods, such as trapping; the use of the citizen science data for detection of presence, the active search of nests and the removal of nests using mechanical methods. The progression of the number of secondary nests found was 1 (2015), 9 (2016) and 20 (2017), with zero during 2018, 2019 and 2020, and just one embryo nest in 2018. More than half of the nests (58%) were detected thanks to citizen science data. The people sent us adult detections, and we started the triangulation method to find the nests. The last hornet found in the traps was in June 2018. Early detections of the IAS are crucial to minimise their effects, and citizen science may offer an important source of information to determine the presence and distribution of V. velutina. The findings we present here indicate successful management for this globally significant pest and could contribute to advance the 'science of eradication'. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Effects of Nest Box Installation on a Distribution Power Line: Increased Eurasian Kestrel Nesting, Reduced Electrocutions, and Reduced Electrical Faults

Electrical pylons are frequently used by birds for perching, roosting, and nesting. These behaviors can lead to electrocutions, particularly when pylons are constructed of grounded concrete and steel crossarms, as they were in our study area near Arak, Iran. To address electrocutions of Eurasian Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) and a variety of passerines nesting on a 20-kV distribution line, we documented construction and use of nests on pylons on a 34-km segment of power line in 2018. Following removal of nests by the electric utility operating the line, we installed nest boxes on pylons that previously supported nests, and in 2019 we documented use of those nest boxes. We predicted that after installation of nest boxes, numbers of Eurasian Kestrel nests would increase, and numbers of nests outside of nest boxes, avian electrocutions, and faults (electric current arcing from conductors to pylons) would decrease. All four predictions were validated. We documented 31 nests in 2018, including 3 Eurasian Kestrel nests. In 2019, we documented 6 nests outside of nest boxes, and 31 nests in nest boxes, including 16 Eurasian Kestrel nests. In 2018, we found 1 electrocuted Eurasian Kestrel, and 39 electrocuted passerines. In 2019, we found 3 electrocuted Eurasian Kestrels, 11 passerines, 2 Eurasian Eagle-Owls (Bubo bubo), and 1 Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis). The rate of electrocutions per nest for Eurasian Kestrels decreased from 0.33 to 0.19, and the electrocution count for all birds decreased by 57.5%. Electrical faults, an indirect measure of potential avian electrocutions, decreased from 173 in 2018 to 120 in 2019. Although there is some risk that nest boxes on power poles could create ecological traps, our results suggest that in this study electrocutions and electrical faults were reduced, supporting conservation goals and electric power reliability goals while simultaneously reducing electric utilities' maintenance obligations.

Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) Lay Eggs Despite Nest Removal During the Pre-laying Period

Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) Lay Eggs Despite Nest Removal During the Pre-laying Period

Using citizen science to assess drivers of Common House Martin Delichon urbicum breeding performance

Many hirundine (swallows and martins) species are declining throughout their ranges. The Common House Martin Delichon urbicum is a migratory hirundine that breeds throughout Europe but has shown recent declines in some parts of the UK, particularly in the south. We conducted a large‐scale citizen science survey to assess how the breeding performance of House Martins, measured by the number of attempted broods and nest success, is influenced by nest‐specific, landscape and weather factors. Pairs in eastern parts of the UK started breeding earlier than those in the west, and breeding performance was higher in eastern regions. There was no effect of latitude on either aspect of breeding performance, so our measures of breeding performance alone do not help to explain differences in population trends across the UK. The probability of attempting multiple broods and producing successful nests was higher in previously used nests than in newly built nests, and in artificial nests than in natural nests. Nests built on plastic soffits of buildings were less likely to be multi‐brooded and less likely to be successful compared with other materials. Suggested conservation measures therefore include discouraging the removal of old nests and encouraging the installation of artificial nests, particularly on buildings with plastic soffits. This study provides comprehensive insight into the breeding biology of House Martins, and although our findings do not show conclusively that breeding performance is the sole driver of population trends, they go some way to explain declines in House Martins and ultimately provide information that may help conserve this species.