Breeding of the Eastern Yellow Robin in an Exotic Pine Plantation at Armidale, New South Wales

Abstract

Eastern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis nests were observed in an exotic Monterey Pine Pinus radiata plantation near Armidale, New South Wales, for 5.25 hours over seven 45-minute sessions during the incubation period in spring 2002 (five nests of three groups). The robins nested at 2-21 m above ground (mean 12 m) in exotic conifers, constructing nests of exotic materials. Males fed incubating females 2.9 times/h, and females left the nest (apparently to forage) at the rate of 2.3 forays/h. Nest success was 20%, with one brood of two fledging from five attempts.