Does nest defense behavior vary with differences in landscape features in four species of shrub-nesting birds?

Baehl, Elizabeth M; Benson, T.J.

Permalink

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/90208 Copy

Description

Title

Does nest defense behavior vary with differences in landscape features in four species of shrub-nesting birds?

Author(s)

• Baehl, Elizabeth M
• Benson, T.J.

Contributor(s)

Merrill, Loren

Issue Date

2016

Keyword(s)

• Shrub-land
• Birds
• Behavior
• Landscape
• Nests

Abstract

This study focused on if landscape features around the nest affect levels of anti-predator behavior in different shrub-land birds. Adult behavior was recorded on day 7 post-hatch, when chicks were remover as part of another study. The species studied are American Robins (AMRO), Gray Catbirds (GRCA), Northern Cardinals (NOCA) and Brown Thrashers (BRTH). The behavior between the different landscapes of AMROs and GRCAs was not significantly different. This shows that the energy difference is not significant enough to deter protective behavior. However, the NOCAs in less developed areas had a significantly more aggressive behavior. Also, the BRTHs had a significantly higher behavior score in lower percent grassland/shrub-land areas. This may be due to predation risk and perceived quality of the habitat. Variation in their habitat influenced their behavior.

Type of Resource

text

Language

en

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/90208

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2016, Baehl and Bensen

Owning Collections