Goshawks Accipiter gentilis nest-tree and stand preferences in the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli forest,north-eastern Greece

Alexandrou O., Vlachos C., Bakaloudis D.

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Abstract:

Goshawk Accipiter gentilis preferences in terms of nest tree and nest stand (0.2 ha circle centred at nest tree) were studied at 23 nests in north-eastern Greece. Nest-tree and nest-stand characteristics were compared to those measured at paired, randomly selected plots. Goshawks usually nested in Calabrian pines Pinus brutia that were always dominant in the canopy. Trees at nest stands were taller, had greater diameter at breast height and were older than trees at random plots. The total tree density in goshawk nest-stands was lower, but the total tree basal area was greater compared to random plots. Goshawk nests were found at gentle and north-facing slopes in mature stands with high canopy closure. The importance of mature forest is emphasised for the maintenance of a stable goshawk population in the area.