Temporal variations in the use of cavities by urban birds in Havana, Cuba

Abstract

We analyzed the temporal variations in the use of cavities by the bird community present in a highly urbanized area of Havana throughout one year. Of 351 cavities available in the external walls of Convento San Francisco de Asís, 79% (n = 277) were used by two introduced species throughout the year (Columba livia, Rock Dove: 46%, n = 160; Passer domesticus, House Sparrow: 4%, n = 16) and three native species between January and July (Progne cryptoleuca, Cuban Martin: 17%, n = 58; Dives atroviolaceus, Cuban Blackbird: ˂ 1%, n = 2; Falco sparverius, American Kestrel: ˂ 1%, n = 1). In addition, 10% (n = 36) of the cavities were used by different species and 1% (n = 4) by Apis mellifera (Honey Bee). Progne cryptoleuca showed a wide and greater variation during the year, although its use was restricted between February and July. There was an increase in the number of cavities used from the beginning of February to March. In April it decreased (n = 8), with the maximum value observed in mid–May (n = 60). Thevariations seem to be related to their migratory status and the behavior associated with different stages of the breeding period, and not by the presence of C. livia in the area.

Keywords

• aves introducidas
• aves que crían en cavidades secundarias
• golondrina azul cubana
• paloma doméstica.