To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
ABSTRACT Background/Question/Methods The rainforests of Borneo are home to a remarkable array of ... more ABSTRACT Background/Question/Methods The rainforests of Borneo are home to a remarkable array of plant and animal species. This diverse and charismatic avifauna is still poorly understood, and canopy-dwelling birds are particularly understudied. We conducted simultaneous canopy and ground-based surveys of the avifauna in lowland rainforest sites in Sarawak, East Malaysia (Borneo). Our aims were: (1) to determine how detectable canopy species were from the ground and vice versa, (2) to assess the connectivity of bird communities of the canopy, sub-canopy, and understory, and (3) assess the role of canopy height in bird detectability and community structure. Surveys were conducted in lowland rainforest with canopy heights ranging from 20 to 40 meters. At each survey point, a ground survey was conducted simultaneously with a canopy survey. The canopy was accessed using tree-climbing methods (single rope method). Observers communicated via radio to time the surveys, which consisted of simultaneous 3-minute point counts and 10-minute acoustic recordings. Results/Conclusions We found significant differences in the birds that were detected from the canopy versus the ground, with more species detected from the canopy. Not only were canopy-dwelling species more frequently detected in canopy surveys, but ground-dwelling and mid-story species were more often detected in canopy surveys compared to ground surveys. These results suggest that canopy surveys are important in gaining a thorough inventory of bird communities in lowland rainforest.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relativ... more To design and execute cost effective assessments of bird diversity in tree plantations is relatively easy given basic knowledge about bird communities and skills in identifying common species. Bird communities increase in diversity with the age and structural complexity of groves, and they are also likely to be influenced by other factors, such as proximity of groves to natural forest, age of the plantation in terms of crop rotations, and regional variation in indigenous faunae. Surveys of birds should be designed to take advantage of these factors and to assure consistency among replicate plots. For example, a great deal may be learned about bird diversity and community development by comparing groves of different ages (and thus structural complexity) as long as these groves also share inherent properties (e.g., adjacent habitats, soils, streams, cliffs, roads, logs, and snags). Accurate assessment of bird species diversity in a given location may be accomplished by the method of "distance sampling". This method emphasizes the estimation of species density (number/area) and is accomplished by transect counts. Two kinds of data are collected during such counts, species identifications of individual birds and estimates of distance of individual birds from observers. From these data, a wide variety of parameters may be estimated and inferences made using models designed for distance sampling. With a little practice, observers can be trained to recognize many bird species and their songs and, thus, accomplish effective data collection. Moreover, in certain circumstances "indicator species" can be identified through distance-sampling analysis. These species indicate pre-established levels of diversity. Thus, apprentice observers can then be trained quickly to identify indicators species, thereby providing accurate, cost effective assessments of bird diversity.
Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropic... more Plantations of exotic trees for industrial and agricultural purposes are burgeoning in the tropics, and some of them offer the opportunity to study community ecology of animals in a simplified forest setting. We examined bird community assembly in different aged groves of the industrial tree mangium (Acacia mangium) at two plantations in Malaysian Borneo: Sabah Softwoods near Tawau, Sabah, and the Planted Forest Project, near Bintulu, Sarawak. Bird communities were compared among three agegroups of mangium (2-, 5-, and 7-years old) and logged native forest. Mangium rapidly developed into a secondary forest consisting of a wide diversity of understory trees and shrubs. The bird community correspondingly increased in species richness and diversity, and we were able to relate these increases specifically to canopy height, secondary canopy development, and shrub cover. Species of common, small bodied frugivores, nectarivores, and insectivores were diverse in older plantation groves, as were common mid-sized insectivores. However, large, specialized, and normally uncommon taxa (e.g., galliforms, pigeons, hornbills, barbets, midsized woodpeckers, muscicapine flycatchers, and wren babblers) were rare or nonexistent in the plantations. Because we lacked species-specific data on foraging, nesting, and other behaviors of most groups of birds, it was difficult to explain the precise causes of seral diversification in any group except woodpeckers, which have been well studied in Southeast Asia. Thus, in future, particular emphasis needs to be placed on obtaining such data. Industrial plantations, by virtue of their simple structure, variably aged groves, and bird community richness, are good places to gather such data.
ABSTRACT Background/Question/Methods The rainforests of Borneo are home to a remarkable array of ... more ABSTRACT Background/Question/Methods The rainforests of Borneo are home to a remarkable array of plant and animal species. This diverse and charismatic avifauna is still poorly understood, and canopy-dwelling birds are particularly understudied. We conducted simultaneous canopy and ground-based surveys of the avifauna in lowland rainforest sites in Sarawak, East Malaysia (Borneo). Our aims were: (1) to determine how detectable canopy species were from the ground and vice versa, (2) to assess the connectivity of bird communities of the canopy, sub-canopy, and understory, and (3) assess the role of canopy height in bird detectability and community structure. Surveys were conducted in lowland rainforest with canopy heights ranging from 20 to 40 meters. At each survey point, a ground survey was conducted simultaneously with a canopy survey. The canopy was accessed using tree-climbing methods (single rope method). Observers communicated via radio to time the surveys, which consisted of simultaneous 3-minute point counts and 10-minute acoustic recordings. Results/Conclusions We found significant differences in the birds that were detected from the canopy versus the ground, with more species detected from the canopy. Not only were canopy-dwelling species more frequently detected in canopy surveys, but ground-dwelling and mid-story species were more often detected in canopy surveys compared to ground surveys. These results suggest that canopy surveys are important in gaining a thorough inventory of bird communities in lowland rainforest.
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