This article in the latest issue of Wildlife Research may be of
interest to some- Robin Hide.
Goldingay, R. L. and J. R. Stevens (2009). “Use of artificial tree
hollows by Australian birds and bats.” Wildlife Research
36(2): 81-97.
Abstract: Artificial tree hollows (nest or roost boxes) may be
of considerable importance to the conservation and management of
Australian hollow-using birds and microbats. This is suggested by
recognition that the rate of collapse of hollow-bearing trees may
exceed replacement in some landscapes. We review the published
literature to synthesise current information on the use of artificial
hollows by Australian birds and bats, and to provide guidance to future
research and management. The use of artificial hollows has been
documented in some detail for 15 native bird and eight microbat
species. A range of hollow designs has been employed but there is a
limited understanding of favoured designs. General designs (e.g.
front-entry plywood boxes) have been used extensively by some species
and should continue to be used until more effective designs are
identified. Species tend to use artificial hollows that have entrance
sizes just sufficient for their body size, and this should guide hollow
design. Competitive interactions with a range of non-target species
(native and non-native) may have a pronounced influence on artificial
hollow use and must be considered in any management program involving
artificial hollows. We highlight some design elements that may reduce
interference by non-target species. Temperature inside artificial
hollows may have a particular influence on their use by bats due to the
role of microclimate in bat thermoregulation. Trials are needed to
investigate this factor and to inform general approaches to positioning
of artificial hollows. Several distinct management uses exist for
artificial hollows, including assisting threatened species recovery,
e.g. Kangaroo Island glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami
halmaturinus) and orange-bellied parrot (Neophema chrysogaster).
Artificial hollows offer an interim solution to hollow shortage but
their full potential will only be realised when preferences for
different designs are better understood. This will require a commitment
to monitoring and should be conducted in an adaptive management
context. Increased knowledge of the use of artificial hollows by
Australian birds and bats should be of global relevance to the
management of hollow-using species because it provides an independent
test of ideas and strengthens any generalisations.
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