We used logistic regression to model the effects of weather, habitat, and management variables on Greater Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis tabida) nest success at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in southeast Oregon. We monitored 506 nests over 9 breeding seasons. Mean apparent nest success was 72% ± 4% and varied from 51 to 87%. Nest success was lower one year after a field was burned and declined with nest initiation date. Nest success was higher during warmer springs, in deeper water, and in years with moderate precipitation. Haying, livestock grazing, and predator control did not influence nest success. We suggest the short-term consequence of burning on nest success is outweighed by its long term importance and that water level management is the most important tool for managing crane nest success. Finally, studies of brood ecology are needed to develop a more complete picture of crane nesting ecology.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 March 2008
Factors Influencing Nest Success of Greater Sandhill Cranes at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon
Gary L. Ivey,
Bruce D. Dugger
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
Waterbirds
Vol. 31 • No. 1
March 2008
Vol. 31 • No. 1
March 2008
breeding ecology
Grus canadensis tabida
land management
Oregon
predator control
sandhill crane
weather