Sociality and Foraging Behavior of the Cerulean Warbler in Venezuelan Shade-Coffee Plantations

Abstract

We examined the use of Venezuelan shade-coffee plantations by the Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea) and other Neotropical migrants. Cerulean Warblers were commonly observed as pairs in mixed-species flocks. Average (± SE) flock size was 13 ± 2 species with 22 ± 3 individuals. Average flock territory size was 2.5 ± 0.2 ha. No differences were detected in foraging behavior (maneuvers, location, or success) among adult males, adult females, and immature birds. Adult males were often observed visiting flowers of canopy trees. The results of this study indicate that shade coffee plantations may provide suitable wintering habitat for Cerulean Warblers although comparisons with other habitats are needed.