Although tree species of a given habitat affect the number and mix of bird species found there, bird densities are better correlated with the structure of the habitat. More fertile forests support denser and more diverse bird communities. In general, mixed-aged and mixed-species stands support more species than even-aged monocultures, and dense stands support more birds than open ones. However, the presence of edge habitat, including tree and shrub cover and open areas in close proximity, increases habitat diversity and also bird diversity. Edge and successional habitats abound in Nova Scotia as a result of human settlement (see T12).

Table T11.2.2 lists bird species found most regularly in the various forest types in the province.

This Document Includes:

Habitat Factors
Vertical Zonation
Breeding Densities
Community Differentiation
Successional Habitats
Birds in Forest and Edge Habitats at Other Seasons

Download PDF File (102k, 4 pages, 2 plates, 2 tables)

Additional Keywords:
stratification, foraging, feeding, migration, migrant, residents, nomads.

Associated Topics:

T10.6 Trees
T11.3 Open-habitat Birds
T11.4 Birds of Prey
T11.5 Freshwater Wetland Birds and Waterfowl
T11.16 Land and Freshwater Invertebrates

Associated Habitats:

H5.1 Barren
H5.2 Oldfield
H6.1 Hardwood Forest
H6.2 Softwood Forest
H6.3 Mixedwood Forest