A case study of species assessment in invasion biology: the Village Weaverbird Ploceus cucullatus

• Main Author: Lahti, D. C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona 2003-01-01
• Series: Animal Biodiversity and Conservation
• Subjects: Invasive species; Introduction success; Agricultural pests; Birds; Ploceidae; Ploceus cucullatus
• Online Access: http://abc.museucienciesjournals.cat/files/ABC-26-1-pp-45-55.pdf

Application of recent insights gained in invasion biology to particular species may aid in addressing a central problem of the field, that of prediction of the dynamics of future introduction and invasion. The Village Weaverbird (Ploceus cucullatus) is concluded to be a potential invader of concern in several regions, especially the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and southeastern United States. This conclusion is supported by the introduction and invasion history of the species, factors concluded in recent reviews and quantitative studies to correlate with introduction success or invasiveness in birds, the species' agricultural pest status in its current range, and a published rating system. A proactive stance is recommended since control efforts have met with little success, but certain characteristics of the Village Weaver may provide opportunities for management.