The importance and future condition of western riparian ecosystems as migratory bird habitat

Product Type: Proceedings, Pages in

Year: 2005

Author(s): Skagen, S.K., R. Hazlewood, and M.L. Scott

Pages: 525-527

Suggested Citation: Skagen, S.K., R. Hazlewood, and M.L. Scott. 2005. The importance and future condition of western riparian ecosystems as migratory bird habitat. In: C.J. Ralph and T.D. Rich (eds.). Bird conservation implementation and integration in the Americas: Proceedings of the Third International Partners in Flight conference, Volume 2, March 20-24, 2002, Asilomar, California. Gen. Tech. Rpt. PSW-GTR-191. Albany, CA: U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. p. 525-527.

Abstract

Riparian forests have long been considered important habitats for breeding western landbirds, and growing evidence reinforces their importance during the migratory period as well. Extensive modification of natural flow regimes, grazing, and forest clearing along many rivers in the western U.S. have led to loss and simplification of native riparian forests and to declines and endangerment of riparian¬-dependent birds species. Efforts to conserve, restore, and manage the distinctive biological diversity of riparian ecosystems must rest upon a clear understanding of the primary physical and biological process that structure and maintain that diversity on a landscape scale.