Data collection for this research is complete and the findings are currently being written up for my PhD thesis and publications. A brief overview is provided below; further details will be shared following publication.
Findings presented here are preliminary and may be refined during the publication process.
Bioacoustic monitoring revealed differences in bird communities across Coventry’s urban and semi-natural tree habitats. Semi-natural sites generally supported richer and more functionally diverse bird communities, while urban sites contained a smaller range of species. The analysis also indicated a positive relationship between tree species richness and bird species richness. These findings highlight the potential importance of diverse and structurally varied urban tree habitats.
Bat activity and diversity were investigated across the same urban and semi-natural locations using ultrasonic acoustic monitoring. Several bat species were recorded, with activity varying considerably between sites and across the survey period. The analysis explores whether these patterns are associated with habitat type, tree characteristics and the surrounding urban environment. The findings are currently being written up as part of my PhD thesis.
Trunk refugia revealed variation in the abundance and diversity of invertebrates associated with individual urban trees. The research examines how these communities differ between urban and semi-natural habitats and whether they are related to tree characteristics, including native status. Vegetation and ground-cover surveys were also used to characterise the habitats surrounding the sampled trees and help interpret the ecological patterns observed.
The questionnaire showed that Coventry’s urban trees are valued for much more than their appearance. Respondents described their importance for recreation, wellbeing, contact with nature, local identity and meaningful memories. Although some problems were identified, these were often connected to tree maintenance and the management of surrounding infrastructure. Overall, responses demonstrated strong support for protecting and planting trees for future generations.
These findings are currently being prepared for inclusion in my PhD thesis and academic publications. Only a broad overview is presented here and further details will be added following publication.