Why might the Eurasian Wryneck avoid territories where the ground cover beneath trees is too dense?
Answer
The vegetation makes ant nests harder to locate and access, increasing energy expenditure
For migratory birds like the Eurasian Wryneck, foraging technique directly influences habitat selection. Since they primarily forage on the ground, if the ground cover beneath the trees is too dense with vegetation, the birds risk expending excessive energy trying to locate their main food source, the ant nests. Studies have noted that these birds preferentially select territories, such as older pear orchards, where the ground cover is scant precisely because it makes the ant nests easier to locate and access. This efficiency in finding their specialized diet is critical, especially upon arrival when energy reserves need replenishing.
Related Questions
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