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Spatial pattern and variability of soils in a granite landscape, north-east of Nelspruit
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: South African Journal of Plant and Soil • Authors: E. Verster --- Department of Geography, Republic of South AfricaMorphological and selected chemical and granulometric properties of eleven soil profiles occurring on five hillslope sites (midslope, upper footslope, mid-footslope, lower footslope and valley bottom) were determined in order to evaluate the spatial pattern and variability of soils in a... -
THE BITE OF THE LEECH LIMNATIS FENESTRATA MOORE 1939, IN NATAL
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Journal of the Limnological Society of Southern Africa • Authors: C.C. Appleton --- , South Africa I.M. Porter --- , South AfricaThe leech Limnatis fenestrata is a hazard to fishermen and limnologists working in the field in Natal. Since nothing is known of the pathogenicity of this leech, its bite and the sequelae following attack by L. fenestrate are described. -
A Survey of the Views of College Students on Academic Dishonesty
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Journal of Psychology in Africa • Authors: Joseph M. Kasayira --- Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Starlin Musingarabwi --- Mkoba Teachers College, Zimbabwe Solomon Nyanhongo --- Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Kudzai S. Chipandambira --- Midlands State University, Zimbabwe Tholene Sodi --- University of Venda, South AfricaThe purpose of the study was to examine students' views on dishonest academic behaviours. First year students from Mkoba Teachers' College in Zimbabwe's city of Gweru (n = 152) responded to an open-ended questionnaire that was used to collect data... -
WELL-BOUNDED OPERATORS ON NON-REFLEXIVE BANACH SPACES II
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Quaestiones Mathematicae • Authors: Qingping Cheng --- Institute of Mathematics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Givat-Ram, Jerusalem, Israel, Ian Doust --- School of Mathematics, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia,In this paper we examine the relationship between the various subclasses of well-bounded operators. Although some of these subclasses have been shown to coincide on certain families of Banach spaces, we show here that apart from these previously known cases,... -
Nest characteristics of Yellow-billed Kites Milvus aegyptius in the Manambolomaty Lakes Complex, western Madagascar
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Tolojanahary Andriamalala --- , Madagascar Lily-Arison Rene de Roland --- , Madagascar Marius Rakotondratsima --- , Madagascar Gilbert Razafimanjato --- , Madagascar Russell Thorstrom --- , USAWe studied the nesting biology of Yellow-billed Kites Milvus aegyptius in the Manambolomaty Lakes Complex of western Madagascar during 2002 and 2003. We recorded 64 nesting attempts. In 2003, 33% (n = 39 nests) of the occupied nests were from... -
Ground cavity nest temperatures and their relevance to Blue Swallow Hirundo atrocaerulea conservation
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: James Wakelin --- Scientific Services, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, South Africa Amy-Leigh Wilson --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaBlue Swallows Hirundo atrocaerulea are Critically Endangered within South Africa. They nest in natural underground holes in mist-belt grasslands. Temperature dataloggers were used to record ground cavity nest (Tn) and ambient temperature (Ta) for one artificial and 11 natural Blue... -
Filial cannibalism in the Chestnut-backed Sparrow-lark Eremopterix leucotis
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Derek Engelbrecht --- Department of Biodiversity, University of Limpopo, South AfricaCannibalism is a rare event in passerines, especially filial cannibalism. Here I report on two instances of filial cannibalism observed in the Chestnut-backed Sparrow-lark Eremopterix leucotis in the Limpopo province, South Africa. In both instances it was only the females... -
The sociality of nesting in Rüppell's Weaver Ploceus galbula and the Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius in an Ethiopian acacia woodland
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: David C Lahti --- Department of Biology, Queens College, USARüppell's Weaver Ploceus galbula and the Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius nest prominently in the Awash National Park, Ethiopia. In both species the sociality or degree of aggregation of their nesting is varied. Rüppell's Weaver can nest singly or in... -
Nest Densities of the Wandering Albatross Diomedea Exulans at the Prince Edward Islands, Estimated Using Gps
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Marine Science • Authors: L. G. Underhill S. L. Petersen J. CooperHand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers provide opportunities for detailed and rapid mapping of features, including biological ones, further enhanced by the removal during 2000 of "selective availability". GPS was used to map, describe and compare nest densities within wandering... -
Guidelines for the design and management of artificial raptor perches and nest-tree stands on forestry estates in South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: The Southern African Forestry Journal • Authors: G. Malan --- Department of Nature Conservation Pretoria Technikon, A.vN. Marais --- Biological Diversity Services,The aim of this paper is to provide timber growers with silvicultural guidelines for the establishment of raptor perches and nest stands on forestry estates. Rodents do extensive damage to young saplings and as an ecologically friendly alternative to rodenticides,... -
Breeding ecology of the Chestnut-backed Sparrowlark Eremopterix leucotis in an agroecosystem in the Limpopo province, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Derek Engelbrecht --- Department of Biodiversity, South Africa Lucket Dikgale --- Department of Biodiversity, South AfricaWe studied the breeding ecology of the Chestnut-backed Sparrowlark Eremopterix leucotis over three years between 2008 and 2010. The breeding season was bimodal with a main peak in laying in autumn (March–April) and another smaller peak in spring (September–October). Nest... -
Nest position and type affect predation rates of artificial avian nests in the tropical lowland forest on Mount Cameroon
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Eric Djomo Nana --- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Czech Republic Ondřej Sedláček --- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Czech Republic Jana Vokurková --- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Czech Republic David Hořák --- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Science, Czech RepublicNest predation is the leading cause of reproductive failure in birds and thus it shapes their life history strategies. Intensities of nest predation appear to differ among nest locations and types in both temperate and tropical regions. However, there is... -
The febrile parturient: choice of anesthesia
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: Krzysztof M Kuczkowski --- Departments of Anesthesiology and Reproductive Medicine, -
Anesthesia for the parturient with cardiovascular disease
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: Krzysztof M. Kuczkowski --- Departments of Anesthesiology And Reproductive, -
Wrong drug administration errors amongst anaesthetists in a South African teaching hospital
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: PC Gordon [AN0001]A confidential, self-reporting survey was sent out to all 65 anaesthetists (25 specialists and 40 registrars) in the Department of Anaesthesia at the University of Cape Town with the aim of determining the incidence and possible causes of “wrong drug”... -
Advances in obstetric anesthesia: ambulation during labor with combined spinal-epidural analgesia
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: KM Kuczkowski --- Departments of Anesthesiology and Reproductive Medicine, USAEpidural analgesia is widely considered as the most effective method of providing pain relief in labor. However, epidural labor analgesia is not a generic procedure and many technical modifications have been invented over time. Continuous search for a balanced labor... -
Sevoflurane or halothane with target-controlled sufentanil infusions for coronary artery bypass surgery
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: AI Levin --- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Faculty of health Sciences, JF Coetzee --- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Faculty of health Sciences, M Coetzer --- , AR Coetzee --- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Faculty of health Sciences,Objectives -
A case that underwent bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical biopsy combined with left pneumonectomy
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: S Inoue --- Department of Anaesthesiology, Japan Y Fujimoto --- Department of Anaesthesiology, Japan H Furuya --- Department of Anaesthesiology, JapanA case that underwent bilateral video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical (VATS) biopsy combined with pneumonectomy is presented. The patient developed hypoxia during the contralateral VATS biopsy. His hypoxia was treated with positive expiratory pressure (PEEP) to the dependent lung and apneic oxygen... -
Lumbering the gauntlet: Cape Gannet fledglings killed by African Penguins
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Alistair M McInnes --- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, South Africa Nicolas Suarez --- Centro Nacional Patagonico (CONICET), Argentina Gavin M Rishworth --- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, South Africa David B Green --- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, South Africa Pierre A Pistorius --- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, South Africa Lorien Pichegru --- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, Department of Zoology, South AfricaThis account presents the first known observations of Cape Gannet Morus capensis fledgling mortalities as a result of aggressive nest defence behaviour by African Penguins Spheniscus demersus. Observations were conducted in 2013 on Bird Island, Algoa Bay, South Africa –... -
The importance of anthropogenic effects in habitat use and territory size of Northern Anteater-chats Myrmecocichla aethiops near Amurum Forest Reserve, Jos-Plateau, Nigeria
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Biplang G Yadok --- AP Leventis Ornithological Research Institute, Nigeria Yahkat Barshep --- AP Leventis Ornithological Research Institute, Nigeria Will Cresswell --- AP Leventis Ornithological Research Institute, NigeriaOccurrence of animals in an area and the size of territories they occupy is a function of resource availability and the environmental conditions in that area. Territory location in birds is often determined by availability of nesting habitat and we... -
Aspects of the breeding ecology of the Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio in the wetland complex of Guerbes-Sanhadja, north-east Algeria
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Bara Mouslim --- Laboratoire Ecologie des Systèmes terrestres et aquatiques, Algeria Merzoug Seyf Eddine --- Laboratoire Biologie, Eau et Environnement, Algeria Khelifa Rassim --- Laboratoire Biologie, Eau et Environnement, Algeria Bouslama Zihad --- Laboratoire Ecologie des Systèmes terrestres et aquatiques, Algeria Houhamdi Moussa --- Laboratoire Biologie, Eau et Environnement, AlgeriaThe Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio is a common rail that previously was little investigated in North Africa. From 2011 to 2013, its breeding ecology was studied at two natural wetlands in north-east Algeria, namely Garaet Hadj Tahar and Garaet Messaoussa... -
Breeding ecology of the Seychelles Black Parrot Coracopsis barklyi
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Anna Reuleaux --- Seychelles Islands Foundation, Seychelles Heather Richards --- Seychelles Islands Foundation, Seychelles Terence Payet --- Seychelles Islands Foundation, Seychelles Pascal Villard --- Seychelles Islands Foundation, Seychelles Matthias Waltert --- Department of Conservation Biology, Germany Nancy Bunbury --- Seychelles Islands Foundation, SeychellesKnowledge of breeding ecology is required for many conservation interventions. The Seychelles Black Parrot Coracopsis barklyi, endemic to the island of Praslin, is vulnerable to extinction. We aimed to improve understanding of C. barklyi breeding ecology to aid conservation planning... -
Reproductive ecology and egg production of the radiated tortoise (Geochelone radiata) in southern Madagascar
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Thomas E.J. Leuteritz --- Department of Biology, U.S.A. Rollande Ravolanaivo --- Department of Animal Biology, MadagascarWe studied reproduction of wild Geochelone radiata at the Cap Sainte Marie Special Reserve in southwestern Madagascar to gain insight into life history traits related to reproductive success. Reproductive behaviour was observed over two nesting seasons and egg production was... -
Predator control, mesopredator release, and impacts on bird nesting success: a field test
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Penn Lloyd --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, South AfricaThe mesopredator release hypothesis predicts that reductions in top-predator abundance in a community will increase the abundance or activity of smaller ‘mesopredators’, and increase predation pressure on mesopredator prey, including bird nests. Top predators have been extensively controlled in rangelands... -
Nest and nestling data for Barlow‘s lark, Calendulauda barlowi
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Derek Engelbrecht --- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, University of Limpopo, South Africa Johann Lonzer --- Port Nolloth Museum, South AfricaBarlow’s lark is one of southern Africa’s least known lark species. This study is the first to report on the structure and dimensions of this species’ nest and aspects of the nestling period. The ontogenetic development of the nestling is... -
Breeding ecology of the pink-billed lark, Spizocorys conirostris, in an agricultural landscape in South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: D. Engelbrecht --- Department of Biodiversity, South Africa M.H.T. Mathonsi --- Department of Biodiversity, South AfricaWe studied the breeding ecology, parental care and nesting success of the pink-billed lark, Spizocorys conirostris, in an agricultural landscape in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, from October 2008 to October 2010. The results are compared with data in... -
The phylogeography of Lemniscomys striatus (Rodentia: Muridae) confirms a remarkable vicariant event in neighbouring savanna populations in Central Gabon
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: J. F. Mboumba --- Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, Gabon V. Nicolas --- Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Département de Systématique et Evolution, France M. Colyn --- Université de Rennes 1, France P. Deleporte --- Université de Rennes 1, FranceOur recent phylogeographic study on the strictly savanna small rodent Nannomys minutoides revealed an unexpected pattern of divergence between populations occupying neighbouring savanna islands in Central Gabon, suggesting the historical and continuing fragmentation of these savanna habitats. In this study,... -
Breeding density of the southern ground hornbill, Bucorvus leadbeateri, in the communal areas surrounding the Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Minke Witteveen --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Elspeth Parry --- , South Africa Mark Norris-Rogers --- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Mark Brown --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaThe southern ground hornbill, Bucorvus leadbeateri, is on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as a ‘Vulnerable’ species with a decreasing population. Despite a myriad of threats, including loss of nesting sites, accidental poisoning and persecution, there has been... -
Predation drives nesting success in moist highland grasslands: the importance of maintaining vegetation cover for bird conservation
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ian T Little --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST–NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Philip AR Hockey --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST–NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Raymond Jansen --- Department of Environmental, Water and Earth Sciences, South AfricaBy focusing on process-oriented data rather than inventory-type data, this study provides a robust understanding of the effects of agricultural management on grassland bird reproductive output in the moist highland grasslands (MHGs) of South Africa. Four-hundred and four nests of... -
How do African Black Oystercatchers Haematopus moquini recruit into high-density populations?
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Douglas Loewenthal --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST–NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Dane M Paijmans --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST–NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Philip AR Hockey --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST–NRF Centre of Excellence, South AfricaTheoretical and empirical studies of oystercatchers both suggest that levels of adult site fidelity, natal philopatry and age-at-first-breeding are interrelated consequences of life-history decisions made by potential breeders. All are fundamental to explaining population dynamics and have important conservation implications... -
Efficacy of intrathecal midazolam versus fentanyl for endoscopic urology surgery
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Anaesthesia and Analgesia • Authors: Neerja Bharti --- Department of Anesthesia & Intensive Care, India Yatindra K Batra --- Department of Anesthesia & Intensive Care, India Sunder L Negi --- Department of Anesthesia & Intensive Care, IndiaBackground: This prospective randomized double-blind study was designed to compare the analgesic efficacy and safety of intrathecal midazolam versus fentanyl as an adjunct to bupivacaine for endoscopic urology surgery. -
Population increase and nest-site selection of Cattle Egrets Bubulcus ibis at a new colony in drylands of north-east Algeria
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Majda Sbiki --- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Algeria Haroun Chenchouni --- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Algeria Abdelkrim Si Bachir --- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, AlgeriaColony occupation by Cattle Egrets Bubulcus ibis at an arid location in north-east Algeria lasted from mid-March or April to August. The colony, which was founded in 2003, increased from 124 pairs in 2007 to 250 pairs in 2011 and... -
Factors affecting nesting success in the Great-crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus at Lake Tonga, north-east Algeria
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Sarra Cheriet --- Department of Ecology, FSNV-STR, Algeria Farrah Samraoui --- Laboratoire de Recherche et de Conservation des Zones Humides, Algeria Ahmed H Alfarhan --- Center of Excellence for Research in Biodiversity, Saudi Arabia Boudjéma Samraoui --- Laboratoire de Recherche et de Conservation des Zones Humides, AlgeriaThe breeding ecology of the Great-crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus was investigated over four consecutive years (2009-2012) at Lake Tonga, north-east Algeria. In all four years, the egg-laying period was relatively short, spanning two months (end of March to end of... -
Food availability and seasonal variation in nest predation pressure as factors influencing the timing of breeding of Namaqua sandgrouse in the Nama Karoo, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Penn Lloyd --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, South Africa Robin M. Little --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, South Africa Timothy M. Crowe --- Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, South AfricaThe Namaqua sandgrouse, Pterocles namaqua, is an opportunistic granivore that feeds exclusively on the seeds of ephemeral plants. These plants germinate after rainfall and have a short growing season before producing abundant quantities of seed as they dry out and... -
The use of social Stegodyphus spider retreats as nest-lining by pale chanting-goshawks (Melierax canorus): is it about preference?
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Tanza E. Crouch --- Department of Entomology and Arachnology, Durban Natural Science Museum, South Africa Gerard Malan --- Department of Zoology, South AfricaThe pale chanting-goshawk (Melierax canorus) incorporates silk nests (hereafter ‘retreats’) of the social spider Stegodyphus dumicola (Araneae: Eresidae) in the construction of the nest-lining of their own nests. This study investigates whether pale chanting-goshawks in the Little Karoo, South Africa,... -
Significant population of Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus found in Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mohamed Amezian --- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Morocco Rachid El Khamlichi --- Group for Research and Protection of Birds in Morocco (GREPOM/BirdLife Morocco), regional section of Tangier-Tétouan, MoroccoThe Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus population in Morocco has undergone a marked decline since the 1980s to the point of nearing local extinction in the twenty-first century. A field study of some possible sites for Egyptian Vultures was carried out... -
Usurpation of a Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus nest by African Wattled Lapwings V. senegalensis
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Nicholas PC Horrocks --- Department of Zoology, UKI report an instance of usurpation of a Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus nest by a pair of African Wattled Lapwings Vanellus senegalensis. The nest, which originally contained a single Crowned Lapwing egg, eventually contained an additional three Wattled Lapwing eggs,... -
Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus and African White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus nesting at the Olifants River Private Nature Reserve, Limpopo province, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ara Monadjem --- Department of Biological Sciences, Swaziland Kerri Wolter --- VulPro NPC, South Africa Walter Neser --- VulPro NPC, South Africa Keith Bildstein --- Acopian Center for Conservation Learning, USABasic ecological information is still lacking for many species of African vultures. The Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus is known as a rare breeding resident in north-eastern South Africa. This study set out to monitor the nests of Hooded Vultures and,... -
Status of the population of Karamoja Apalis Apalis karamojae in north-eastern Uganda
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Dianah W Nalwanga --- NatureUganda, Uganda Michael Opige --- NatureUganda, Uganda Roger Q Skeen --- NatureUganda, UgandaThe distribution of the Karamoja Apalis Apalis karamojae, an East African endemic, has been sparsely documented in Uganda. In October 2011, a survey of the species was carried out near Iriiri in north-eastern Uganda. The main aim was to find... -
Taxpayers’ attitudes towards tax amnesties and compliance in South Africa: an exploratory study
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: South African Journal of Accounting Research • Authors: S. V. Junpath --- Faculty of Accounting & Informatics, South Africa M. S. E. Kharwa --- Faculty of Accounting & Informatics, South Africa L. J. Stainbank --- Faculty of Accounting & Informatics, South AfricaSouth Africa has seen tremendous changes since 1994, from the introduction of a new government to structural changes in tax administration. One of the challenges the government faced in the new democracy was the restructuring of the tax system. Multiple... -
A helping hand: artificial nest site provisioning increases breeding success of a tropical seabird
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Marine Science • Authors: LA Hart --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa J Gane --- Cousine Island Conservation Management, I Olivier --- Cousine Island Conservation Management, CT Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa M Brown --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaCommon white terns Gygis alba lay a single egg balanced on rocks or branches and consequently are at risk of low nesting success. A novel technique of hollowing out coconut husks and providing artificial nest sites was developed on Cousine... -
“You are not always what you eat”: diet did not override intrinsic nestmate recognition cues in Argentine ants from two supercolonies in South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Natasha P Mothapo --- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology, Department of Botany and Zoology, South Africa Theresa C Wossler --- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology, Department of Botany and Zoology, South AfricaNestmate recognition in ants is based on cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs), which are heritable and may also be acquired from the environment (i.e. diet and nest environment). In Argentine ants (Linepithema humile), diet and a homogenous environment have been shown to... -
Observations of microtrash ingestion in Cape Vultures in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Morgan B Pfeiffer --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Jan A Venter --- School of Natural Resource Management, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaIngestion of man-made items by birds can reduce stomach volume and block the digestive track. In southern Africa, microtrash within the regurgitation of Cape Vulture nestlings was last documented in 1983. We present evidence of nestling microtrash ingestion after a... -
Nest success of the Indian House Crow Corvus splendens: an urban invasive bird species in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Moses Joel Shimba --- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Dodoma, Tanzania Fredrick Ekow Jonah --- Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, GhanaNest success of the Indian House Crow Corvus splendens was studied in the urban area of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in late March to early May 2011. The study investigated nest success of the Indian House Crow in different tree... -
Removal (and attempted removal) of material from a Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus nest by a starling and a Hooded Vulture
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Lindy J Thompson --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa John P Davies --- Lawson’s Birding, Wildlife and Custom Safaris, South Africa Keith L Bildstein --- Acopian Centre for Conservation Learning, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, USA Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaRelatively little is documented about nest material theft in vultures. We used camera traps to monitor Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus nests for a year. We report camera trap photographs of a starling Lamprotornis sp. removing what appeared to be dung... -
Visitors to nests of Hooded Vultures Necrosyrtes monachus in northeastern South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Lindy J Thompson --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa John P Davies --- Lawson’s Birding, Wildlife and Custom Safaris, South Africa Maja Gudehus --- Selati Private Game Reserve, South Africa André J Botha --- Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa Keith L Bildstein --- Acopian Centre for Conservation Learning, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, USA Campbell Murn --- Hawk Conservancy Trust, UK Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaHooded Vultures Necrosyrtes monachus are critically endangered but little is known of their year-round use of nests or whether other species usurp Hooded Vulture nest sites. We investigated visitation rates by Hooded Vultures and other species (including potential nest predators... -
Productivity of the declining Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus population in southern Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Sonja C Krüger --- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, South Africa Arjun Amar --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South AfricaRecent research has shown that anthropogenic influences are driving the abandonment of breeding territories in the declining southern African Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis population. Survival rates appear to be low (86% for adults) due to poisoning and collisions with... -
Distribution and breeding ecology of the Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca in Algeria
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Assia Djelailia --- Laboratoire de Conservation des Zones Humides, Algeria Nasser Baaziz --- Department of Animal Biology, Algeria Farrah Samraoui --- Laboratoire de Conservation des Zones Humides, Algeria Ahmed H Alfarhan --- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Saudi Arabia Boudjéma Samraoui --- Laboratoire de Conservation des Zones Humides, AlgeriaWe conducted a survey of the distribution of Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca across Algeria and analysed the influence of nest-site characteristics on nesting success at a Ramsar site, Lake Tonga. The species was found to occupy different wetlands (freshwater lakes,... -
Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus breeding behaviour and reproductive success in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Erin P Wreford --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Lorinda A Hart --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Mark Brown --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaBlack Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus breeding behaviour and nest success was determined using camera traps and field observations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Nest preparation was done predominantly by the male with incubation and brooding largely performed by the female. Brooding duration... -
The recovery and molecular identification of HAdV-D17 in raw sewage and mussel samples collected in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Southern African Journal of Infectious Diseases • Authors: Hillary J Vos --- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, South Africa Caroline M Knox --- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, South AfricaHuman adenoviruses (HAdV) are a common cause of clinical infections in South Africa. However, there is a lack of information regarding the prevalence and molecular identification of this virus in the environment. The objective of this study was to investigate... -
Nest-site characteristics and aspects of the breeding biology of the endangered Timneh Parrot Psittacus timneh in Guinea-Bissau
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Daniel C Lopes --- Faculty of Sciences, Portugal Rowan O Martin --- World Parrot Trust, UK Mohamed Henriques --- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Portugal Hamilton Monteiro --- Coastal Planning Office, Guinea-Bissau Aissa Regalla --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Quintino Tchantchalam --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Bucar Indjai --- INEP – National Institute for Study and Research, Guinea-Bissau Seco Cardoso --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Celestino Manuel --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Manjaco Cunha --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Domingos Cunha --- Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Areas, Guinea-Bissau Paulo Catry --- MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, PortugalTimneh Parrots Psittacus timneh are endemic to the moist forests of West Africa. Concerns over rapid declines in populations due to overharvesting for the pet trade and forest loss prompted the species’ categorisation as Endangered on the IUCN Red List... -
Nesting biology and food habits of the endangered Sakalava Rail Amaurornis olivieri in the Mandrozo Protected Area, western Madagascar
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Yverlin Z Pruvot --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Lily-Arison René de Roland --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Gilbert Razafimanjato --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Marius PH Rakotondratsima --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Aristide Andrianarimisa --- Department of Zoology and Biodiversity, Faculty of Science, Madagascar Russell Thorstrom --- The Peregrine Fund, USAWe studied the nesting biology and food habits of the endangered and endemic Sakalava Rail Amaurornis olivieri from July to November 2015 in the Mandrozo Protected Area, western Madagascar. Three nesting pairs were observed and their nests were constructed in... -
Birds adopting weaver nests for breeding in Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: H Dieter Oschadleus --- Animal Demography Unit, Department of Biological Sciences, South AfricaWeavers build domed, long-lasting nests that may also be adopted by other species for breeding, probably reducing the energetic costs of nest building to varying degrees. In an extensive literature search, 57 species were found to have at least one... -
Temporal changes in prey composition and biomass delivery to African Crowned Eagle nestlings in urban areas of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Tim van der Meer --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Shane McPherson --- School of Life Sciences, South Africa Colleen Downs --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaGlobally urban areas are expanding rapidly and this usually has negative effects on biodiversity. Despite this, some species manage to persist in urban areas, as is the case with African Crowned Eagles Stephanoaetus coronatus in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. As relatively... -
Effects of temporal factors, nesting microhabitat and nest position on the survival of passerine nests in a Tunisian oasis habitat
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Jihen Boukhriss --- Unité de recherche «Ecologie de la faune terrestre» (UR17ES44), Faculté des Sciences de Gabès, Tunisia Slaheddine Selmi --- Département des Sciences de la Vie, Faculté des Sciences de Gabès, TunisiaIdentifying the ecological factors shaping bird nest survival is essential for understanding bird population dynamics, as well as for conservation purposes. Using data obtained by monitoring natural bird nests in one oasis in south-eastern Tunisia, we fitted logistic exposure models... -
Why defaecate on your doorstep? Investigating an unusual behaviour in Africa’s smallest falcon
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Billi A Krochuk --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Diana Bolopo --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Anthony M Lowney --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Paul R Meyers --- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, South Africa Claire N Spottiswoode --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South Africa Rajendra MG Raman --- Department of Zoology, UK Robert L Thomson --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, South AfricaDepositing faeces at the nest should be expected to carry risks such as increased parasite loads and disease exposure. This perplexing behaviour is unusual in birds but is consistently shown by a handful of species, and has been demonstrated to... -
The energetic significance of communal roosting and insulated roost nests in a small arid-zone passerine
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Nevanya Lubbe --- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, South Africa Zenon J Czenze --- School of Biological Sciences, New Zealand Matthew J Noakes --- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, South Africa Andrew E McKechnie --- DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, South AfricaSmall endotherms have evolved behavioural mechanisms for reducing rest-phase energy expenditure, which reduce the likelihood of mismatches between energy supply and demand during periods of cold weather and/or food scarcity. Although the energetic consequences of communal roosting and the use... -
Raptors breeding on weaver nests in trees and on man-made structures
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: H Dieter Oschadleus --- School of Life Sciences, South AfricaSeveral raptor species nest on top of large weaver nests. These weaver nests are usually sited in trees, but 11.7% of Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver Bubalornis niger and 25.7% of Sociable Weaver Philetairus socius nests occur on man-made structures. In an extensive... -
Population biology of the woodland dormouse Graphiurus murinus in a riverine Combretum forest, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Zimkitha JK Madikiza --- School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, South Africa Sandro Bertolino --- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, Italy Emmanuel Do Linh San --- Department of Zoology and Entomology, South AfricaUntil recently, very little was known of the biology and ecology of the woodland dormouse Graphiurus murinus, a nocturnal and arboreal rodent belonging to the family Gliridae. Here, we aimed to increase our knowledge on its population biology in a... -
A review of the use of birds’ nests by Egyptian geese, including a breeding attempt in a hooded vulture nest
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Lindy J Thompson --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South Africa Carrie J Hickman --- School of Environment, Earth and Ecosystem Sciences, United Kingdom John P Davies --- Birds of Prey Programme, Endangered Wildlife Trust, South Africa Fiona Fern --- Independent researcher, United Kingdom Colleen T Downs --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South AfricaEgyptian geese Alopochen aegyptiaca are widely reported to be territorial and aggressive. They are known to attack and sometimes kill other birds and they may attempt to usurp their nests. Here information is collated on the bird species whose nests... -
The efficacy of a modified Berlese funnel method for the extraction of ectoparasites and their life stages from the nests of the African Penguin Spheniscus demersus
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Marcela PA Espinaze --- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, South Africa Cang Hui --- Department of Mathematical Sciences, South Africa Lauren Waller --- Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, South Africa Sonja Matthee --- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, South AfricaThe Berlese funnel method, and its variations, is commonly used for the extraction of arthropods from various substrates such as nest material. However, little is known about its effectivity in extracting ectoparasites from penguin nests. This study aimed to assess... -
Spatial distribution and breeding territories of Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciata in the western Anti-Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ali Irizi --- Département de Zoologie et Ecologie Animale, Institut Scientifique, Morocco Mohamed Aourir --- Laboratory « Biodiversité et fonctionnement des écosystèmes », Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Morocco Mohammed Znari --- Laboratoire « Biodiversité et Dynamique des Ecosystèmes», Faculté des Sciences – Semlalia, Morocco Mohamed Aziz El Agbani --- Département de Zoologie et Ecologie Animale, Institut Scientifique, Morocco Abdeljebbar Qninba --- Département de Zoologie et Ecologie Animale, Institut Scientifique, MoroccoThe North African population of Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciata (Vieillot, 1822) is limited to the south by the northern fringe of the Sahara Desert. This study provides the first data on the spatial distribution and density of breeding Bonelli’s Eagles... -
Parental care in a sexually monomorphic, ground-nesting passerine, the Pink-billed Lark Spizocorys conirostris (Alaudidae)
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: G Derek Engelbrecht --- Department of Biodiversity, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, South Africa Sean M Marr --- Department of Biodiversity, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, South AfricaWithin the family Alaudidae, most monomorphic species exhibit some degree of biparental care, but direct paternal care in most species is confined to food provisioning to offspring during the nestling period. Uniquely, the genus Spizocorys is the only sexually monomorphic... -
Body condition of Little Egret Egretta garzetta nestlings in relation to hatching order in a southern Tunisian breeding colony
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Amel Neb --- Unité de Recherche “Ecologie de la Faune Terrestre” (UR17ES44) – Faculté des Sciences de Gabès, Tunisia Abdessalem Hammouda --- Unité de Recherche “Ecologie de la Faune Terrestre” (UR17ES44) – Faculté des Sciences de Gabès, Tunisia Slaheddine Selmi --- Unité de Recherche “Ecologie de la Faune Terrestre” (UR17ES44) – Faculté des Sciences de Gabès, TunisiaThe effect of asynchronous hatching on nestling health and condition in ardeids is still in need of empirical evidence from populations living in different environmental conditions. Using morphometric and hematologic data from Little Egret Egretta garzetta nestlings in a Tunisian... -
Breeding ecology of the Andalusian Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus sylvaticus
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Carlos Gutiérrez-Expósito --- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación, Estación Biológica de Doñana-CSIC, Spain Ruth García-Gorria --- Ibn Khaldoun 1, El Jadida, Morocco Abdeljebbar Qninba --- Laboratoire de Géo-Biodiversité et Patrimoine Naturel (GEOBIO), Institut Scientifique, Morocco Miguel Clavero --- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación, Estación Biológica de Doñana-CSIC, Spain Eloy Revilla --- Departamento de Biología de la Conservación, Estación Biológica de Doñana-CSIC, SpainUnderstanding the breeding cycle of wildlife is essential to afford conservation strategies. This is especially important for barely studied species and urgent for those at serious risk of extinction. The Andalusian Buttonquail is an endangered endemic of the Western Mediterranean,... -
Mom’s taxi – Maternal care in shovel-nosed frogs Hemisus marmoratus and Hemisus guttatus
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: K Kyle --- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South Africa LH du Preez --- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, South AfricaThis communication details the maternal care of Hemisus marmoratus and Hemisus guttatus. A Hemisus mother stays with the eggs, protecting them during their time in the nest chamber, and ensures their ultimate arrival in a body of water, at varying... -
Nesting ecology and hatching success of the hawksbill turtle (2004–2014) on Cousine Island, Seychelles
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Marine Science • Authors: J Gane --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South Africa CT Downs --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South Africa I Olivier --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South Africa M Brown --- Centre for Functional Biodiversity, School of Life Sciences, South AfricaPopulations of the Critically Endangered hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata in the Seychelles showed significant declines in the past. They have since recovered and nesting numbers are increasing because of increased protection and management intervention. Data on their nesting ecology on... -
A survey of Great-winged Petrels Pterodroma macroptera breeding at sub-Antarctic Marion Island and a revised global population estimate
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ben J Dilley --- , South Africa David W Hedding --- , South Africa Stefan Schoombie --- , South Africa Peter G Ryan --- , South AfricaAlthough burrow-nesting petrels are the most abundant group of seabirds in the Southern Ocean, their global populations are poorly known, because most species breed on remote islands. For example, there are no accurate estimates for Great-winged Petrel Pterodroma macroptera populations... -
Variation in colony sizes of weavers from a citizen science project
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Hans-Dieter Oschadleus --- , South AfricaThe project PHOWN (PHOtos of Weaver Nests) is a citizen science project that collects breeding distributions and colony sizes of weaverbirds (Ploceidae) globally. PHOWN began in mid-2010 and has collected nearly 30 000 records in 9.5 years. This paper provides... -
Restricted breeding habitat of the Critically Endangered White-winged Flufftail in Ethiopia and its conservation implications
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: RB Colyn --- , South Africa MA Howes-Whitecross --- , South Africa C Howes --- , South Africa HA Smit-Robinson --- , South AfricaThe White-winged Flufftail Sarothrura ayresi is considered the most threatened rallid species in Africa and has significant data deficiencies related to population dynamics, ecology and conservation priorities. The Ethiopian Highlands have until recently, been the only known breeding area for... -
Rats and prions at Tristan da Cunha Island
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ben J Dilley --- , South Africa Delia Davies --- , South Africa Julian Repetto --- , United Kingdom (South Atlantic Ocean) George Swain --- , United Kingdom (South Atlantic Ocean) Peter G Ryan --- , South AfricaTristan da Cunha is a 96 km2 volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean. Black Rats Rattus rattus reached the island from a shipwreck in 1882 and their depredation of seabirds’ eggs and chicks are likely partly responsible for the... -
Sibling competition in the broods of Little Egrets Egretta garzetta in a southern Tunisian breeding colony
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Amel Neb --- , Tunisia Slaheddine Selmi --- , TunisiaAsynchronous hatching is a common hatching pattern in the Little Egret Egretta garzetta, however, its role in maintaining dominance relationships and feeding hierarchy among siblings remains poorly studied. In this study, we investigated this issue using data on feeding and... -
Effects of nest management methods on hatching success and predation rates of hawksbill turtles on Cousine Island, Seychelles
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Marine Science • Authors: J Gane --- , South Africa CT Downs --- , South Africa I Olivier --- , South Africa M Brown --- , South AfricaSea turtle populations have declined globally and are of conservation concern. We investigated the effects of nest management methods on hatching success and egg/hatchling predation rates of hawksbill turtles Eretmochelys imbricata on Cousine Island, Seychelles. We determined the effectiveness of... -
Nest characteristics and morphometry of Black Crowned Cranes Balearica pavonina ceciliae in Lake Tana area wetlands
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: Shimelis Aynalem Zelelew --- , Ethiopia George Archibald --- , United StatesBirds select breeding habitats based on biotic and abiotic environmental factors, resulting in a non-random spatial distribution of nests. This study investigated the onset of nesting, nest location, the relationship between nest height and water depth, nest materials, and the... -
Liminality in incorporation: regularisation of undocumented Zimbabweans in South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Anthropology Southern Africa • Authors: Shingirai Nyakabawu --- , South AfricaSince 2000, large numbers of undocumented Zimbabweans have settled in South Africa in search of better living opportunities. In 2010, the South African government approved an immigration amnesty known as the Dispensation Zimbabwe Permit (DZP). This article argues that DZP... -
Double-brooding in Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills Tockus leucomelas
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mark Stanback --- , United States David Millican --- , United States William Versfeld --- , Namibia Matti Nghikembua --- , Namibia Laurie Marker --- , Namibia John Mendelsohn --- , NamibiaDouble-brooding is an avian breeding strategy where birds produce at least two successful nests in a single season. Double-brooding is seen most frequently in small passerines for which the breeding season is lengthy enough that they can easily fit in... -
Nestling diet of the Algerian Nuthatch Sitta ledanti, an endemic threatened bird in Babors’ Kabylia region (north-eastern Algeria)
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mourad Zemouri --- , Algeria Lydia Asloune --- , Algeria Aida Adrar --- , Algeria Abdelouhab Bouchareb --- , Algeria Abdelazize Franck Bougaham --- , AlgeriaThe Algerian Nuthatch is an endemic and protected bird species in Algeria, and its different habitats are threatened by fires and others human actions; the species is therefore considered ‘Endangered’. A faecal samples analysis of the species’ nestlings was done... -
Colonial versus solitary breeding: nesting patterns of Brown-throated Martins Riparia paludicola in Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Peter W Greig-Smith --- , United KingdomThis study explored reasons for variable nesting habits in a hole-nesting bird species that sometimes breeds colonially and sometimes alone. Nesting was surveyed over ten years in natural sand cliffs and similar features created by human activity along a river... -
Nest-site characteristics of Levaillant’s Woodpecker Picus vaillantii endemic to North Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mehdi Badis --- , Tunisia Nabil Hamdi --- , TunisiaLevaillant’s Woodpecker is an endemic species of the forests of north-western Africa. Through the cavities it digs, its presence is essential for the existence of other cavity nesters. However, despite its importance to its ecosystems, there are not much data... -
Host specificity of the Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus: a review
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: H Dieter Oschadleus --- , South AfricaThe Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus does not build its own nest but is an obligate user of the nests of colonial birds for roosting and breeding. The nests of various weavers and starlings have been listed, suggesting a wide range... -
The influence of nest location and the effect of predator removal on Cape Gannet Morus capensis egg predation by Kelp Gulls Larus dominicanus vetula
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Zanri Strydom --- , South Africa Lauren J Waller --- , South Africa Mark Brown --- , Hervé Fritz --- , South Africa Jan A Venter --- , South AfricaThe breeding range of the Cape Gannet Morus capensis currently extends to six of the ten islands formerly utilised by this species. The Cape Gannet is classified as an endangered species with a rapidly declining population. Since the mid-1950s, the... -
Natural recolonisation of sub-Antarctic Marion Island by Common Diving Petrels Pelecanoides urinatrix
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Maëlle Connan --- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa Stefan Schoombie --- Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa Janine Schoombie --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, South Africa Ben Dilley --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, South Africa Peter G Ryan --- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, South AfricaNocturnal burrow-nesting seabirds are notoriously difficult to study and can go unnoticed for years in remote areas. One of these species is the Common Diving Petrel Pelecanoides urinatrix, which has a circumpolar breeding distribution in the Southern Ocean, including at... -
Breeding status of invasive Rose-ringed Parakeets Psittacula krameri in Durban, South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Tinyiko C Shivambu --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Ndivhuwo Shivambu --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaThe Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri has established feral populations in South African suburban areas. However, the information on the breeding biology of parakeets remains poorly documented in the country. We assessed parakeets’ breeding status and behaviour by locating their roost... -
Foam‐nest treefrogs in eastern Africa (Anura Rhacophoridae Chiromantis): Taxonomic complexities
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: The Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa • Authors: JohnC. Poynton --- Natural History Museum, UKParker's (1932) relegation of Chiromantis kelleri to subspecific status as C. petersii kelleri is investigated. Examination of the holotypes of C. petersii and C. kelleri shows subspecific status for these taxa to be inappropriate. Available data leave an open question... -
Predation on the eggs of ground-nesting birds by Dasypeltis scabra (Linnaeus, 1758) in the moist highland grasslands of South Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Herpetology • Authors: Michael F. Bates --- , , South Africa Ian T. Little --- , South AfricaWe provide evidence for predation by the Common Egg-eater (Dasypeltis scabra) on the eggs of three species of ground-nesting birds, namely African Pipit (Anthus cinnamomeus), Cape Longclaw (Macronyx capensis) and Common Quail (Coturnix coturnix). Although egg-eaters have been recorded as... -
Reproduction of the Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus at the El Maleh Dam reservoir in north-western Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Abdeslam Rihane --- , Morocco Abdelmottalib Nahli --- Hassan II Université Casablanca, Morocco Rhimou El Hamoumi --- Hassan II Université Casablanca, Morocco Mohamed Chlaida --- Hassan II Université Casablanca, MoroccoThe reproduction of the Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus in submerged and dried up thickets of French tamarisk Tamarix gallica at El Maleh Dam reservoir, Benslimane Province, Morocco, was studied through monitoring nests in three successive years (2017–2019). Systematic field... -
Preliminary investigation into deducing breeding success of African Penguins Spheniscus demersus from automated transponder reader data to reduce disturbance
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mpumalanga Mnyekemfu --- University of the Western Cape, South Africa Peter J Barham --- University of the Western Cape, South Africa Barbara Barham --- , United Kingdom Lauren Waller --- University of the Western Cape, South Africa Katrin Ludynia --- University of the Western Cape, South Africa Gavin W Maneveldt --- University of the Western Cape, South AfricaThe Endangered African Penguin Spheniscus demersus is in serious decline, with the total population falling at a rate of ∼5% per annum. The need to carry out regular monitoring to collect demographic and phenological data to assist in the planning... -
Breeding ecology of the Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor (Glareolidae) on semi-arid grazing land in Souss-Massa National Park, southwestern Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Yassine Teyar --- Ibn Zohr University, Morocco Dimitri Giunchi --- University of Pisa, Italy Mohamed El Bekkay --- , Morocco Widade Oubrou --- , Morocco Mohammed Znari --- Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco Mohamed Aourir --- Ibn Zohr University, MoroccoThis study presents the first data on the breeding ecology of the Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor (family Glareolidae) in a grazed semi-arid steppe in southwestern Morocco. The egg-laying occurred between early May and July, with most nests found between May... -
A new record of a chick falling from a nest in Limpopo province, South Africa, adds to the known causes of Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus mortality
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Zoology • Authors: --- , South Africa --- , South Africa --- University Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso --- , South Africa --- , United StatesFor all species, causes of mortality, both anthropogenic and natural, should be recorded. In Critically Endangered species these records are even more important, owing to their potential impacts on small and/or declining populations. Here we present a case of natural... -
Lie derivable maps at unit operator on nest algebras
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Quaestiones Mathematicae • Authors: Kaipeng Li --- Xidian University, P.R. China Lei Liu --- Xidian University, P.R. ChinaLet be a nontrivial nest on a separable Hilbert space and be the associated nest algebra. In this note, we prove that, if contains an atom of infinite rank or is uncountable, then the unit operator I is a Lie... -
New waterbird breeding records in Western Province, Zambia
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Jonah Gula --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Amukena Mungole --- , Zambia Kirsty J Kyle --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Matthew J Burnett --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Moses Chibesa --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaKnowledge of where species breed is important for understanding population trends, range shifts and conservation threats. During fieldwork in 2019–2023 in Western Province, Zambia, we recorded evidence of breeding of 21 waterbird species. According to known literature, these are considered... -
Nesting habitat of the Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola mauritanica in Morocco
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mohammed Hilmi --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Abdallah Mahamoud --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Omar Taouali --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Nadia Mhammdi --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Pedro Fernandes --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Mohammed Aziz El Agbani --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, Morocco Abdeljebbar Qninba --- Institut Scientifique, Mohammed V University, MoroccoThe Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola (subspecies mauritanica) of family Hirundinidae is endemic to Morocco and known for its ability to dig tunnels in earthen banks in which it nests. The nature of the sediment and the morphological features of the... -
Long-term changes in petrel populations on Inaccessible Island, Tristan da Cunha, inferred from the diet of Brown Skuas Stercorarius antarcticus
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Peter G Ryan --- University of Cape Town, South AfricaPetrels that breed in burrows and return to their colonies after dark are among the most poorly studied seabirds. Brown Skuas Stercorarius antarcticus (family Stercorariidae) are major predators of burrowing petrels at many seabird breeding islands in the Southern Ocean,... -
Highly variable breeding phenology in an arid region colonial cooperative breeder, the Sociable Weaver Philetairus socius
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Pietro B D’Amelio --- Université Paris-Saclay and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay, France Nicolas J Silva --- , France Liliana R Silva --- University of Porto, Portugal André C Ferreira --- University of Zurich, Switzerland Franck Theron --- University of Porto, Portugal Claire Doutrelant --- , France Rita Covas --- University of Porto, PortugalDescribing breeding phenology (the timings of reproductive events) is central for studying individual fitness and population dynamics. While fundamental differences in breeding strategies between different biomes (e.g. tropics and temperate regions) have long been identified, detailed descriptions based on long-term... -
Observations on the breeding biology of D’Arnaud’s Barbet Trachyphonus darnaudii
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Henrik Brumm --- Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Germany Poyo Makomba --- , Tanzania Wolfgang Goymann --- , TanzaniaBreeding behaviour is a key process for avian fitness and evolution, but the basic natural histories of many species are unknown. We studied the breeding biology of D’Arnaud’s Barbet Trachyphonus darnaudii (family Lybiidae) on the Usangu Plains in southwestern Tanzania... -
Orientation, thermal characteristics and structural dimensions of Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides nest cavities in arboreal termitaria in central Mozambique
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Darren W Pietersen --- University of Pretoria, South Africa Gregory BP Davies --- , United States of America Craig T Symes --- University of the Witwatersrand, South AfricaThe breeding ecology of the Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides (family Alcedinidae) remains poorly known. While the few nests recorded in southern and East Africa have been in tree hollows, a seasonal population in central Mozambique woodland breeds in cavities in... -
First record of a large breeding colony of the Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus in mainland Africa
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Mohamed Radi --- , Morocco El-Mustapha Laghzaoui --- Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco Aouissa Salek --- , Morocco Rhimou El Hamoumi --- Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco Mohamed Dakki --- , Morocco Abdeljebbar Qninba --- Scientific Institute, Mohamed V University, Morocco El Hassan El Mouden --- Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco Mohamed Aourir --- Ibn Zohr University, MoroccoA breeding colony of the Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus was discovered at the Khenifiss lagoon on the Atlantic coast of southern Morocco. In June 2022, 222 nests were counted and, in 2023, 62 nests were present. Nests were built... -
Nest-site selection by Hooded Vultures Necrosyrtes monachus in the Sudano–Sahelian area of Burkina Faso
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Clément Daboné --- University Centre of Tenkodogo, Thomas Sankara University, Burkina Faso Lindy J Thompson --- , South Africa Adama Ouéda --- University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, Burkina Faso Idrissa Ouédraogo --- University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, Burkina Faso Peter DM Weesie --- University of Groningen, The NetherlandsUnderstanding the factors influencing selection of nesting habitat may be important in the placement and management of Vulture Safe Zones (areas where vultures can safely breed) and in the development of successful conservation programmes. In this study, we analysed the... -
Breeding ecology of the Madagascar Grebe Tachybaptus pelzelnii in Bemanevika Protected Area in the northern highlands of Madagascar
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Delphin Rasolonjatovo --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Lily-Arison Rene De Roland --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Tolojanahary Andriamalala --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Marius Rakotondratsima --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Séraphin Fabrice --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Stéphanie Razakaratrimo --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Yverlin ZM Pruvot --- The Peregrine Fund Madagascar Project, Madagascar Russell Thorstrom --- The Peregrine Fund, United StatesWe studied the breeding ecology of the endangered Madagascar Grebe Tachybaptus pelzelnii (family Podicipedidae) at Bemanevika Protected Area, during two consecutive years (October 2020–September 2022). Two breeding units were observed: pairs and trios made up of one male and two... -
Trends and population size of White-necked Rockfowl Picathartes gymnocephalus within the Nyamibe Bepo Forest Reserve in Ghana
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Joseph Kwasi Afrifa --- Ghana Wildlife Society, Accra Conservation Education Centre, Ghana Ernestina Ahema --- Ghana Wildlife Society, Accra Conservation Education Centre, Ghana Winston Kanyi --- Ghana Wildlife Society, Accra Conservation Education Centre, Ghana Gideon Nyamekye Osei --- Ghana Wildlife Society, Accra Conservation Education Centre, Ghana Darkwah Yaw Amoateng --- Ghana Wildlife Society, Accra Conservation Education Centre, Ghana Augustus Asamoah --- Proforest Africa Regional Office, GhanaThe White-necked Rockfowl Picathartes gymnocephalus (family Picathartidae) is endemic to the Upper Guinea forest and has a global population of <10 000 mature individuals. This species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List owing to its declining population,... -
Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius nesting dynamics and breeding success across a human-modified landscape
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Roger N Porter --- , William W Howells --- , Ingrid B Weiersbye --- , South Africa Ben Hoffman --- University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Sean N Porter --- Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI), South AfricaAnthropogenic habitat transformation is one of the leading causes of biodiversity decline. Migratory birds, particularly many raptor species, are increasingly threatened by global environmental change. We investigated the nesting dynamics and potential determinants of breeding success in a population of... -
Occurrence and persistence of Blacksmith Lapwings Vanellus armatus and Crowned Lapwings V. coronatus and their reproductive success in an urban mosaic landscape
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Feziwe Phoswa --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa S Thobeka Gumede --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaUrbanised landscapes continue to expand globally, leading to increased habitat fragmentation, which creates a mosaic of natural and managed landscapes. These environmental changes have an impact on bird populations, and are reflected in the declining populations of open-habitat species. Despite... -
Urban persistence and species interactions: diverging trends in the abundance of Peregrine Falcons Falco peregrinus and Lanner Falcons F. biarmicus across southern Africa using the Southern African Bird Atlas Project
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Kyle T Govender --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Mfundo ST Maseko --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Alan TK Lee --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Colleen T Downs --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaCitizen science has emerged as a powerful tool for engaging the public in ecological data collection, crucial for monitoring species’ distributions and abundance over large geographic scales and extended time periods. This study used data from the Southern African Bird... -
Breeding dynamics and threats identified at a small colony of Critically Endangered Rüppell’s Vultures Gyps rueppellii in a Ugandan Forest Reserve
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Ivan Oruka --- Gulu University, Uganda Geoffrey M Malinga --- Gulu University, Uganda Stonewall S Kato --- Gulu University, Uganda Darcy Ogada --- , United States of America Derek Pomeroy --- Makerere University, UgandaThe Critically Endangered Rüppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppelli is a resident species in Uganda, with only one known breeding site in Luku Central Forest Reserve, Arua district. The natural resources in this protected forest reserve are under severe threat due to... -
Understanding the distribution and densities of ghost crabs (Ocypode spp.) to improve management of hawksbill turtle Eretmochelys imbricata nesting sites
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: African Journal of Marine Science • Authors: T Godding --- , Seychelles S Evans --- , Seychelles M Brown --- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaPredation on sea turtle nests is a natural occurrence at nesting beaches worldwide, with various animals consuming the eggs and hatchlings as part of the ecosystem. Cousine Island in the Seychelles Archipelago is an important nesting site for the Critically... -
Inferring regional, habitat and phylogenetic patterns in caliochory from bird nests in a museum collection
Item type: Journal Article • Journal: Ostrich: Journal of African Ornithology • Authors: Suzanne J Milton --- Wolwekraal Conservation and Research Organisation, South Africa W Richard J Dean --- Wolwekraal Conservation and Research Organisation, South AfricaCoevolution of plants and animals may lead to features or behaviour that are mutually beneficial. This is exemplified by plant adaptations for seed dispersal, including caliochory, which is the dispersal of seeds by birds in nest materials. Caliochory is a...