334 |Habitat management
Fig. 14.2Monitoring the effects of habitat management is fundamental to good site
management. Here, densities of invertebrates in the water column and mud are being
monitored to determine food supply for waders, such as avocets. (Geoff Welch and
RSPB images)
to half of each plot. The half to which organic matter is incorporated should be
selected randomly to prevent any introduction of bias. Benthic invertebrate biomass
can then be compared between the treated and untreated halves of each plot.
14.4 General principles of managing habitats for birds
14.4.1Factors influencing habitat use by birds
It has long been recognized that habitat structure is of fundamental importance
in influencing its use by birds (e.g. MacArthur and MacArthur 1961). However,