Are there optimal densities for prairie birds?

Product Type: Journal Article

Year: 2010

Author(s): Skagen, S.K. and A.A. Yackel Adams

Suggested Citation:
Skagen, S.K. and A.A. Yackel Adams. 2010. Are there optimal densities for prairie birds?. The Condor 112(1): 8-14.

Abstract

The major forces of food and predation shape fitness-enhancing decisions of birds at all stages of their life cycles. During the breeding season, birds can minimize nest loss due to predation by selecting sites with a lower probability of predation. To understand the environmental and social aspects and consequences of breeding-site selection in prairie birds, we explored variation in nest-survival patterns of the Lark Bunting (Calamospiza melanocorys) in the shortgrass prairie region of North America. Over four breeding seasons, we documented the survival of 405 nests, conducted 60 surveys to estimate bird densities, and measured several vegetative features to describe habitat structure in 24 randomly selected study plots...