Nest site use and changes in habitat of the Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher

The population size and extent of habitat for the Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher are compared with earlier investigations. The estimated world population is 90 individuals (1992). Deforestation on the western plateau of La Digue is estimated to have resulted in a 24% decline in Takamaka Calophyllum inophyllum and Indian Almond Terminalia catappa woodland since 1978. Monitoring of nest site use supports previous associations of the Flycatcher ʹs dependence on Takamaka and Indian Almond woodland (Collar and Stuart, 1985; Watson, 1991). Preliminary observations suggest that land management practices (clearing Takamaka and Indian Almond woodland for development) should be mitigated in view of the potential impact on nest site use by the flycatcher.