Intriguing relationships between birds and trees in southern Africa

Trees and birds have co-evolved,

yet the intriguing ways in which the two groups interact are still poorly known,

especially among the general public.

This non-technical talk highlights some of the multiple ways in which birds and trees influence one another.

Birds can benefit or adversely affect tree growth, survival, and competition.

Trees, on the other hand, influence bird diversity and survival by creating habitat and providing food.

Prof Braam van Wyk will mainly use southern African examples of interactions that deter or augment both bird and tree behaviour.