Is the breeding success of the White-throated Dipper Cinclus cinclus in Hedmark, Norway influenced by acid rain?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate if the White-throated Dipper Cinclus cinclus in Hedmark has problems related to acidification of its habitat. Thirty-three breeding attempts were found in the study area in 1998 and water samples were taken at 29 localities and bottom samples at 20. The number of young in the nest at day 8-10 after hatching was used as a proxy of breeding success and 26 breeding attempts were successful. There was found a significant positive correlation between number of young in the nest and the parameters pH, alkalinity and calcium concentration at the locality. At least one unsuccessful breeding was probably related to low calcium.