Variation in winter thrush abundance during the hunting season in southern Europe: the importance of hunting–free reserves
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Published:2020-11-18
Issue:
Volume:
Page:59-66
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ISSN:2014-928X
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Container-title:Animal Biodiversity and Conservation
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language:en
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Short-container-title:Anim. Biodiv. Conserv.
Author:
Goñi L.1,
González S.1,
Biescas D.2,
Villanúa D.1,
Arizaga J.1
Affiliation:
1. Sociedad de Ciencias Aranzadi, Donostia, Spain
2. IES Tierra Estella, Estella, Spain
Abstract
We analysed variations in the abundance of the song thrush (Turdus philomelos) and the blackbird (T. merula) in the hunting season in hunting areas and hunting–free reserves. After controlling for habitat, we found that the abundance of song thrushes (hunted species) was lower in hunting areas than in reserves during the hunting season. This effect was not found for the blackbird (non–hunted species). This finding indicates hunting–free reserves have a positive effect on song thrush conservation. Further research is crucial to determine the traits that should be promoted in this type of reserve in order to improve their efficiency.
Publisher
Consorci del Museu de Ciencies Naturals de Barcelona
Subject
Nature and Landscape Conservation,Animal Science and Zoology