Abstract:
Habitat features can have a profound effect on the nesting success of birds. Savannas are often
managed with predators and large herbivores as priority species, with little thought to the
many bird species that management decisions could affect. Using a data set spanning seven
breeding seasons, we examined how nesting success of Southern Ground-hornbills (SGHs)
Bucorvus leadbeateri in the Kruger National Park varied as a result of various environmental
and habitat factors within a radius of 3 km surrounding the nest site. Identifying which factors
affect nesting success will allow for targeted management efforts to ensure the long-term
survival of SGHs both within and outside of protected areas. Habitat structure and diversity
of the vegetation surrounding the nest were the most influential factors on SGH nesting
success. SGHs require open grassy areas for foraging and areas with large trees for nesting.
Savanna habitat drivers such as elephants and fire should be managed to ensure that sufficient
large trees are able to establish in the landscape and to control for bush encroachment. This is
especially important in areas earmarked for SGH reintroductions. Nest sites of SGHs should
be monitored to mitigate any structural changes in the habitat surrounding the nests. Nests
should be modified or artificial nest sites provided, where nests have been damaged or lost, to
ensure the continued presence of these birds in African savannas.
CONSERVATION IMPLICATIONS : Habitat structure and diversity surrounding Southern Groundhornbill
nests has a significant impact on their nesting success. This highlights the importance
of monitoring vegetation change in savanna habitats where they occur. Management of
savanna areas should take factors that influence bush encroachment, such as fire and elephants,
into account to ensure the long-term persistence of these birds.
