| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication: | 1959 |
| Authors: | Selander, RK, Giller, DR |
| Journal: | The Wilson Bulletin |
| Volume: | 71 |
| Issue: | 2 |
| Date Published: | 1959 |
| ISBN Number: | 00435643 |
| Keywords: | Centurus, Centurus aurifrons, Centurus carolinus, Melanerpes, Melanerpes carolinus, Melanerpes erythrocephalus, Picidae |
| Abstract: | Interspecific relations of three woodpeckers of approximately equal size were studied in central Texas. The closely related, morphologically similar Red-bellied Woodpecker (Centurus carolinus) and Golden-fronted Wood-pecker (Centurus aurifrons) are sympatric in a narrow zone in the Austin region. Within this overlap zone, differences in habitat occurrence limit contact and competition; but both species occur in the city of Austin, where they hold mutually exclusive territories. Feeding and nesting habits are similar in the two species, as are vocalizations and displays. Reproductive isolating mechanisms, the nature of which are unknown, have evolved, but the species have not made ecologic adjustments which would permit extensive sympatry. The territorial relations of a pair of C. carolinus and a pair of Red-headed Woodpeckers (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) were studied. Their territories overlapped broadly, and interspecific antagonism was not observed. It is suggested that differences in foraging habits and habitat occurrence are important factors permitting extensive sympatry of these species. The reactions of nesting woodpeckers to dummies were tested. Both carolinus and aurifrons attacked dummies of their own or of other species placed in their nest-trees or elsewhere in their territories. The head of a carolinus dummy was as effective in releasing aggressive behavior in carolinus as was the entire dummy. Dummies of carolinus and erythrocephalus placed near the nest-hole of erythrocephalus were attacked with approximately equal vigor. |
| URL: | http://www.jstor.org/stable/4158737 |
| Short Title: | The Wilson Bulletin |
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