Breeding distribution of the Dipper Cinclus cinclus in the Reno valley (Appennino Emiliano, Northern Italy)
Andreotti A., Riga F. & Rossi G.L.Abstract:
This work was carried out with the aim of collecting information with regard to the breeding of Dippers (Cinclus cinclus) in the upper part of the Reno valley (Appennino Emiliano, Northern Italy) and to correlate the nesting pair distribution with ecological parameters of the watercourses, with particular reference to water quality, assessed by I.B.E. method. The results have shown that the species is widely spread along the surveyed streams, most likely because of climatic conditions, producing a positive effect on the flow of the rivers, and the generally good condition of the stream banks and beds. Water quality measures performed through I.B.E. procedures on seven sampling stations have not revealed correlations between the presence of the Dipper and the evaluated variables. Accordingly, it is considered that limiting factors for this species could be related to criteria not taken into account in this research.