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University of Arizona: Montane forest birds in the Santa Catalina Mountains: monitoring population trends and reproductive success and examining potential limiting factors for breeding populations Objectives: (1) estimate population size and short-term population trends for montane forest birds in the Santa Catalina Mountains by conducting breeding bird surveys; (2) estimate reproductive success of montane forest birds by locating and monitorin nests within nest search plots; (3) determine vegetation characteristics that affect reproductive success of montane forest birds by measuring vegetative characteristics at nest sites and comparing these data to vegetative characteristics measured at random sampling points; (4) estimate short-term trends in populations of montane forest birds following wildfire by comparing post-burn survey data with pre-burn survey data collected before the 2003 Aspen wildfire; and (5) examine impact of humans on populations of breeding birds by quantifying visitation rates of humans into important breeding sites and conducting experiments on nesting birds to see if human disturbance at nests increases the probability of nest predation. Project Description: The goal of this sutdy is to furthe rour understanding of the population status, reproductive success, habitat needs, and potential limiting factors for breeding populations of montane forest birds in the Santa Catalina Mountains of southeastern Arizona. We will assess population status by conducting breeding bird surveys on four study plots. We will determine reproductive success and habitat requirements for breeding birds by locating and monitoring nests and measure vegetation characteristics at nest sites (and at random points for comparison) within each plot. In addition, we will evaluate the effect oof human distirbance and recent wildfires on breeding bird populations. The study will address both research and monitoirng needs for multiple species of birds (including two Partners in Flight Watchlist species) that inhabit montane forests within the SJV region. In addition, the study addresses two potential limiting factors (wildfire and human disturbance) that have been identified by Partners in Flight as having the potential to limit breeding populations of montane forest birds in the region. Contact: |
