Building and occupation of artificial nesting sites for the White Stork in Ukraine. - V.N. Grishchenko. - Berkut. 8 (2). 1999. P. 203-212.
Data were collected in 1986-2000. Total 617 artificial nesting sites for the White Stork were analysed. In Ukraine majority of them are established in trees. Nesting sites on roofs and chimneys, which are prevailing in Germany and many other countries of West and Central Europe, are built by people very seldom (Table 1). As the basis for a nest most frequently are used wooden platforms, old wheels, metal welded constructions, etc. (Table 2). Occupation of a nesting site does not depend on its location and type of basis. Differences are not significant. Action of factors influencing occupation of nesting sites were studied (Table 3). Nesting construction have to be strong and reliable armed. Storks occupy unsteady platforms very seldom. Imitation of old nest from twigs on the basis is very important. Portion of occupied nesting sites decreases, if nearby there is an inhabited nest. Artificial nesting sites near old destroyed nests are occupied very willingly. The easy approach to a nest is important too, but this factor is least es-sential. It is necessary to cut off regularly growing green shoots around the nesting site in living tree. [Russian].
Key words: White Stork, Ciconia ciconia, Ukraine, bird conservation, artificial nesting sites, occupation.
Address: V. Grishchenko, Kanev Nature Reserve, 19000 Kanev, Ukraine.
E-mail: vgrishchenko@mail.ru.