Niche Analysis and Conservation of Bird Species Using Urban Core Areas

Knowing the ecological requirements of bird species is essential for their successful conservation. We studied niche characteristics birds in managed small-sized green spaces urban core areas southern (Kavala, Greece) and northern Europe (Rovaniemi, Finland), during breeding season, based on a set 16 environmental variables using Outlying Mean Index, multivariate ordination technique. Overall, 26 Kavala 15 Rovaniemi were recorded more than 5% used detailed analyses. In both areas, occupied different niches varying marginality breadth, indicating responses to conditions. Birds showed high specialization position, with 12 (46.2%) six (40.0%) having marginal niches. Niche breadth was narrower Kavala. Species communities strongly associated either large located further away from city center vegetation cover (urban adapters; e.g., Common Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), European Greenfinch (Chloris chloris), Eurasian Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)) or closer gray area anthropogenic disturbance level exploiters; Western Jackdaw (Corvus monedula), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), Magpie (Pica pica)). The eleven that common study similarly had similar niches, respond urbanization irrespective latitude. Sixteen identified as conservation priority species, status. management actions proposed will also benefit other ultimately help maintain diverse areas.