Density-dependence of reproductive success in a Houbara bustard population

Although density-dependent processes and their impacts on population dynamics are key issues in ecology conservation biology, empirical evidence of density-dependence remains scarce for species or populations with low densities, scattered distributions, especially managed where densities may vary as a result extrinsic factors (such harvesting releases). Here, we explore the presence reinforced North African Houbara bustard ( Chlamydotis undulata ). We investigated relationship between reproductive success local density, possible variation this according to habitat suitability using three independent datasets. Based eight years nests monitoring (more than 7000 nests), modeled Daily Nest Survival Rate (DNSR) proxy success. Our results indicate that DNSR was negatively impacted by approximately constant space time: (1) although strongly decreased over breeding season, negative density remained season; (2) did not quality associated nest location. Previous studies have shown demographic parameters influenced environmental management parameters. study further indicates existence regulation low-density, population. • Density-dependency mechanisms also occur low-density populations. Reproductive performance is birds around nests. Density-dependent effects do time.