The habitat and associated bird assemblages of the Grey-headed Parrot Poicephalus fuscicollis suahelicus in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The Grey-headed Parrot Poicephalus fuscicollis suahelicus has a widespread distribution in sub-Saharan Africa yet is uncommon in its natural range. In some areas seasonal movements are recorded. This study, conducted in north-eastern South Africa, showed that habitat use varied seasonally between two sites, Levubu and Makuya. Differences in habitat were reflected by tree species within the breeding and non-breeding regions of the Grey-headed Parrot. Vegetation structure (tree size; mean height and DBH) was similar between sites, yet tree density differed, being greater at Levubu than Makuya. Bird communities, based on species abundance, differed between localities at each site and between sites. The temporal occurrence of Grey-headed Parrots in particular areas may be a response to the seasonal availability of food sources and nest sites.