Artificial tree hollow creation for cavity-using wildlife – trialling an alternative method to that of nest boxes
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Published source details
Rueegger N. (2017) Artificial tree hollow creation for cavity-using wildlife – trialling an alternative method to that of nest boxes. Forest Ecology and Management, 405, 404-412.
Published source details Rueegger N. (2017) Artificial tree hollow creation for cavity-using wildlife – trialling an alternative method to that of nest boxes. Forest Ecology and Management, 405, 404-412.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Create artificial hollows and cracks in trees for roosting bats Action Link |
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Create artificial hollows and cracks in trees for roosting bats
A replicated study in 2015–2016 of 16 trees within a timber production forest in New South Wales, Australia (Rueegger 2017) found that half of the artificial hollows created in trees were used by long-eared bats Nyctophilus spp., and the design of the entrance did not have a significant effect on use. Eight of 16 artificial hollows were used by long-eared bats, including one of six hollows designed for bats and seven of 10 hollows designed for marsupials and birds, although use of the two designs did not differ significantly. Artificial hollows were created in 16 trees (33–54 mm diameter at breast height) within a forested area of 4 ha. In September 2015, one hollow (35 cm high x 9–20 cm wide and 4 m above the ground) was created in each of 16 trees using a chainsaw. A section of tree (4 cm deep) was reattached to the front of each hollow with an entrance hole either at the base (designed for bats, 38 mm diameter) or the top (designed for marsupials and birds, 38 or 76 mm diameter). Each of 16 hollows was monitored over 12–15 months in 2015–2016 with heat/motion activated cameras.
(Summarised by: Anna Berthinussen)
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