Variation in winter thrush abundance during the hunting season in southern Europe: the importance of hunting–free reserves

Abstract

Variation in winter thrush abundance during the hunting season in southern Europe: the importance of hunting–free reserves. We analysed variations in the abundance of the song thrush (Turdus philomelos) and the blackbird (T. merula) in the hunting season in hunting areas and hunting–free reserves. After controlling for habitat, we found that the abundance of song thrushes (hunted species) was lower in hunting areas than in reserves during the hunting season. This effect was not found for the blackbird (non–hunted species). This finding indicates hunting–free reserves have a positive effect on song thrush conservation. Further research is crucial to determine the traits that should be promoted in this type of reserve in order to improve their efficiency.