Delayed reproduction of translocated red-cockaded woodpeckers
Abstract
Twelve pairs of Red-cockaded Woodpeckers were translocated to the Angelina National Forest from 21 October 1998 to 17 December 1998. Five breeding pairs (consisting of at least one trnnslocated bird) produced eggs/nestlings within the first breeding season after translocation. Clutch initiation dates for all five pairs were later than those of resident breeders. The observed delay in reproductive timing by translocated woodpeckers may have resulted from a variety of factors including unfamiliarity with the habitat, a lack of breeding experience, delayed pair bonding or age specific causes.