Factors characterizing the distribution of the Spotless Starling (Sturnus unicolor Temminck) in Corsica

The distribution of the Spotless Starling in Corsica was studied during the reproductive period of 1993 in order to determine the factors influencing the presence of breeding birds. We also tried to assess the number of reproducing pairs. The species is mainly found in intensively cultured pastures at low altitudes (below 860 m) with on average medium to high coverage of grazed area and where high and medium high maquis (wild scrub of Mediterranean lands) are scarce or absent. Although fruit cultures could be linked with the presence of reproducing birds, their influence appears to be of secondary importance. The number of reproducing birds in Corsica was estimated around 2500 pairs.