STRATAL DISTRIBUTION and RESOURCE PARTITIONING OF BIRDS IN THE KNYSNA FOREST

Abstract

Habitat subdivision and resource partitioning of the birds of the evergreen high forest of the southern Cape were investigated. Most species utilise a wide stratal range with insectivores predominating in the lower strata and mixed-feeders and frugivores in the upper strata. Members of the respective foraging guilds used a different stratum or were separated by differences in morphology or mass, suggesting different sized prey and limited competition.