Configuration of Forest Patches Necessary to Maintain Bird and Plant Communities

摘要

The abundance and diversity of forest birds and plants were studied in relation to the size, degree of isolation, floristics, physiognomy, and successional maturity of upland forest patches in the coastal plain province of Maryland. Point surveys were used to obtain a quantitative index of bird abundance and diversity. Results of this study indicate that the local breeding abundance of almost every bird species associated with the interior of upland forests is significantly influenced by forest area. The responses of birds to forest fragmentation are complex and species-specific. These habitat 'quality' factors should be considered when management decisions are made for bird preservation.