Identifier

etd-04122007-125608

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Renewable Natural Resources

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

I compared nest success estimates for both shorebirds and Sharp-tailed Grouse between controls and 36 square-mile blocks that were trapped for intermediate mammalian predators. I also investigated shorebird nest site selection by comparing vegetation visual obstruction and species composition between nest sites and the surrounding field. Nest success (Mayfield estimate ± SE) was not different between trapped and control blocks for shorebirds (trap: 50.8% ± 6.3%; control: 69.1% ± 17.5%) or Sharp-tailed Grouse (trap: 61.3% ± 8.3%; control: 48.7% ± 10.0%). This indicates that trapping intermediate mammalian predators is not an efficient method of increasing shorebird or Sharp-tailed Grouse nest success. Regardless of the surrounding habitat type, shorebird nest sites were located in characteristic vegetation depending on species. Common Snipe preferred nest sites to be covered by native vegetation that obstructed vision below 21cm. Wilson’s Phalarope also preferred native vegetation, however they nested in vegetation obstructing vision less than 16cm. Upland Sandpipers showed little preference for vegetation species composition, although nest sites were typically found in vegetation obstructing vision less than 21cm. These results indicate that useful shorebird habitat includes relatively sparse, native vegetation.

Date

2007

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Rohwer, Frank C.

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.2795

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