Effect of the colony edge on the clutch size and fledging success in the Little Egret Egretta garzetta (L.)

The term "edge effect' can be defined as an abrupt and local change in the abundance, diversity, composition etc. at the edge of any distinct, spatial patches (structure(s). It usually refers to forest/field, meadow/shrub and other ecotone environments. This effect in relation to breeding densities and success in birds has been the focus of considerable debate (Manolis et al. 2002). The edge of bird colony is expected to affect similarly on avian population (Krebs 1974). Although such studies can be very useful for management and conservation strategies, they are scarce in the Mediterranean.