We investigated the feeding sites of the Nonggang Babbler (
Stachyris
nonggangensis
) during three time
periods (July−September, 2010; November−December, 2010; January−February, 2011) in Nonggang National Nature
Reserve, Guangxi, China with the line transect method and sampling method. Principal component analysis of the data
identified that the feeding sites in the rainy season were dominated by factors consisting of tree layer, the layer of fallen
leaves and the herb layer; whereas the feeding sites in the dry season were dominated by factors dependant on terrain,
herb layer and shrub layer. The results of a circular distribution analysis showed that the Nonggang Babbler preferred
feeding sites with a gentle slope in both the rainy season and dry season. The tests of differences of the variables between
used and control plots indicated that with low arbor coverage in the rainy season, whereas with a low slope position, high
shrub and thick fallen leaves in the dry season. In comparison with the rainy season, the feeding sites in the dry season
tended to be at lower altitude, to have a lower slope position, lower grass coverage, and to be covered with a larger and
thicker bed of fallen leaves. A logistic regression analysis suggested that altitude, slope, and shatter cover were the most
important factors influencing feeding site selection in the rainy season. Slope position, arbor cover, grass cover, and the
thickness of the shatter cover were the most important factors influencing feeding site selection in the dry season.