FOREST SIZE AND AVIAN DIVERSITY IN NEW-JERSEY WOODLOTS WITH SOME LAND-USE IMPLICATIONS

The effect of forest size on avian diversity was studied in oak forest patches in rural New Jersey [USA]. Number of bird species continued to increase significantly in old oak woods up through 40 ha. This was due to the progressive addition of carnivorous species with increasing minimum forest size requirements. One large woodlot had more species than the same area subdivided into smaller woodlots. To maintain maximum regional diversity more than 3 large forests are required. Primary land use priority should be to protect large forests. Second priority should be to maintain a high density of small woodlots.