The wintering of migrant Dunnocks Prunella modularis in two Mediterranean habitats after fire

Migrant Dunnocks Prunella modularis are common winter visitors to the Medit erranean area. In a burnt forest; Dunnocks were present from October to Apr il. They occupied definite individual home ranges of 0.18 ha on average (n = 83), at a density of 30 birds/10 ha in the fifth winter and 18 birds/10 h a in the sixth winter following a fire. Birds used visible posts and uttere d 'tseep' calls often. Counter-calling plas particularly frequent in the wi nter with the highest population density. In a burnt maquis, Dunnocks showe d return rates (15%) and median recapture distances (62.5 m) not significan tly different from those of territorial wintering Robins Erithacus rubecula . We suggest that Dunnock ranges can be regarded as 'feeding territories', promoted by an abundant, predictible and renewable food supply of rock-rose Cistus spp. seeds, characteristic of early Mediterranean successions. Owne rship might be proclaimed by 'tseep' calls, recalling the behaviour of fema le Dunnocks during prebreeding territorial conflicts. Further research usin g colour-ringed birds may confirm Dunnock winter territoriality, exceptiona l for a migrant and mostly granivorous passerine.