Effects of single-tree selection cutting on avian nesting success, nest predator communities, and nest-site availability in a continuously forested landscape

Nest predator communities, avian nesting success, and nest-site availability were compared among mature stands and stands at two temporal stages (1–5 years, 15–20 years) in the single-tree selection cutting system in a continuously forested landscape. No differences were detected in the nest predator community among treatments, based on two survey methods. Similarly, no differences in nest predation rates were detected among treatments, based on Mayfield estimates of daily survival on both real nests and artificial ground nests. Proportion of artificial nests surviving was lower in recently logged than older logged or mature stands when conventional statistical approaches were used. A reverse edge effect was detected for artificial nests, with higher losses at interior sites than at the edge. This effect was not detected based on real nests. Inconsistencies in results between real and artificial nest studies suggested that predation pressure and nest success estimates should be based on real rather than artificial nests. Nest-site selection was non-random relative to general habitat in four of five species studied, and availability of preferred nest-sites differed among treatments for all five species. Relative abundances of three of the five species differed among treatments, and could be managed through modifications to current harvesting practices. Further research is required on other species in the study area to determine the dynamics of predator communities, avian nesting success, and nest-site availability in stands entering the second cutting cycle in single-tree selection.