Research Objectives:
- Determine the effects
of vegetation composition,
density, canopy cover and
patch size on the abundance
of golden-cheeked warblers
within different habitat
patches.
- Determine the effects
of vegetation composition,
density, canopy cover,
and patch size on the reproductive
success of golden-cheeked
warblers within different
habitat patches.
- Devise management recommendations
for the effective management
of ashe juniper forests.
Management Implications:
- Altering ashe juniper
clearing techniques to
minimize potential detrimental
effects on golden-cheeked
warbler reproductive
success.
- Altering current forest
management techniques
to effectively support
breeding golden-cheeked
warbler populations .
Project Summary:
Habitat fragmentation
is a widespread problem common to the endangered status
of several species. In the case of the golden-cheeked
warbler, clearing of ashe juniper trees, a tree believed
to be essential to sustaining golden-cheeked warbler
populations, has caused a fragmented breeding habitat.
Without proper management of the remaining fragmented
habitat, golden-cheeked warblers may experience increased
stress in reproduction resulting in nesting failure.
This study focuses on how different habitat characteristics affect the reproductive
success of golden-cheeked warblers. Our study sites are located at Kickapoo
State Park and private lands in the surrounding area of the Kinney and Edward
county line. We use a reproductive index, behavioral observations, as well as
nest cameras to document nest success and fledgling survival. Along with this
data, we will collect information regarding the vegetation characteristics of
each habitat patch with specific emphasis on vegetation composition, density,
canopy cover, and habitat patch size. |
