| quote | In certain situations eucalyptus trees provide key resources and habitat functions for birds that are not otherwise well provided for by native communities ... The loose bark of blue gum eucalyptus, and crevices and cracks in the bark provide foraging substrate and nest sites ... Several species choose eucalyptus for nesting to a greater degree than native trees in the urban and agricultural areas of the Monterey Bay region. These include Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Great Horned Owl, Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Doublecrested Cormorant. It is possible that some of these species would not nest in our developed areas in the absence of eucalyptus. The tall growth pattern and large limb structure are the most important features for these birds, compared to the native trees. |