Near-exclusive use of Setaceus Asparagus Fern Asparagus setaceus in the construction of nests by three South African bird species

Abstract

The nesting material used by birds can be an important habitat requirement and a potential limiting factor for the successful reproduction of many bird species. I present records of the use of the Setaceus Asparagus Fern Asparagus setaceus by Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata, and Swee Waxbill Coccopygia melanotis (Family Estrildidae) and Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystine (Family Nectariniidae) in the Western Cape, South Africa. It is the large percentage of fronds of Setaceus Asparagus Fern which have been used in these nests which is of particular interest.