Consequences of Multi-Scale Habitat Selection on Reproductive Success of Riverine Sandbar-Nesting Birds in Cambodia

Abstract

Habitat selection occurs at multiple spatial scales and affects demographic processes including reproductive success. Few studies, however, have linked multi-scale habitat selection to reproductive success. We investigated breeding habitat selection at three spatial scales (nest site, nest area and territory), and the consequences of habitat selection on reproductive success of four riverine sandbar-nesting bird species in Cambodia. All species generally selected larger habitat patches, in territories with higher proportions of bare ground substrates, including gravel and dry mud. Individuals generally selected areas with less vegetation; however, at smaller spatial scales, Small Pratincoles (Glareola lactea) and Little Ringed Plovers (Charadrius dubius) used sites with more vegetation. Vegetation generally had a negative effect on reproductive success. For River Terns (Sterna aurantia), nest success was lower in areas with a higher proportion of invasive Mimosa pigra, and chick survival decreased with vegetation height. River Lapwing (Vanellus duvaucelii) nest success decreased with more woody stems, and nest success of Small Pratincoles and Little Ringed Plovers decreased with more herbaceous vegetation. Negative effects of vegetation were likely due to reduced ability of incubating birds to detect predators, or increased cover or foraging efficiency of predators. Finally, proximity to the river channel reduced nest success; nests near the channel had a higher risk of flooding. This is the first study to identify variables associated with habitat selection for all species in this study and to relate habitat use to reproductive success. Results of this study will aid conservation efforts for these regionally threatened species.