Breeding Dispersal of the Pied Flycatcher

(1) We present and analyse breeding dispersal data from a long term study of the pied flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca Pallas) nesting in the Forest of Dean Gloucestershire. (2) The median breeding dispersal (distance between successive breeding sites) varied from 52 to 133 m. The average distance between occupied nest boxes ranged from 41 m to 55 m depending on the breeding density in each year. (3) Older birds of both sexes were more likely to move shorter distances between breeding seasons than were younger birds. (4) Females were less likely than males to return to their former breeding site after the death of or divorce from their previious partner. (5) The possible influence of migration, interspecific competition for nest-sites, and polygyny on the patterns of breeding dispersal are discussed