Eucalyptus Plantations Have Half Birdlife Than Native Forests

Hindustan Times · environment

A 2025 study in northwest Spain found eucalyptus plantations host significantly less birdlife compared to native forests. Researchers observed an average of 5 bird species and 14 birds in native forest locations, versus 5 species and 7 birds in eucalyptus plantations. While the total number of species recorded was similar, individual plantation spots supported fewer birds and species. This difference is attributed to eucalyptus plantations offering less nesting space and insect food, impacting bird populations. The study highlights the ecological value of mature native trees for forest-dependent bird species.