Breeding birds actively modify the initial microclimate of occupied tree cavities

Abstract

The microclimate of cavities used by endothermic animals may depend on dynamic relationships between a cavity’s physical properties and the heating activity of cavity users, but the rudiments of these relationships are unclear. I compared the temperature and relative humidity of active tree cavities that were occupied by nesting marsh tits Poecile palustris with the conditions in vacant tree cavities previously used for breeding by this species. I tested how presence of active nests modified initial cavity microclimate, and if this modification changed with nest progression or cavity insulation. In 2013–2014, mean daily internal-ambient temperature differences averaged 1.5–4.1 °C higher and relative humidity 8–10% lower, in active cavities relative to vacant sites, with greatest differences in the late nestling period. Compared to vacant cavities and relative to respective ambient values, the greatest daily minimum temperature increase was in active cavities located in the thinnest trees, which insulated least efficiently. As daily minimum temperatures were elevated to a similar level relative to outside within all active cavities, birds appeared to compensate for heat loss from cavities by warming the air within in a homeostatic manner. Similar to vacant cavities, the differences between daily maximum internal and ambient temperatures decreased with tree girth in active cavities, indicating that daily temperature maxima were systematically moderated in the thickest trees. The study demonstrates the modifying effect of birds’ breeding activity on tree-cavity microclimate and highlights the role of a cavity’s thermal properties in reducing the energy expenditure and risk of overheating for cavity users.