How to translate text using browser tools
13 February 2024 Documenting Northern Saw-Whet Owls Breeding in Mixed-Deciduous Forest
Joseph M. Elias, Erin Kibelstis, Tony Desantis, Robert Smith, Clay E. Corbin
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Aegolius acadicus (Northern Saw-whet Owl) is an ecologically important, nocturnal, cryptic species that utilizes forests in Pennsylvania for stopover habitat, wintering, and breeding. The extent to which this species nests in the mixed-deciduous forests of northeastern Pennsylvania is uncertain. We used autonomous recording units (ARUs) and audio playbacks throughout Lackawanna State Park (LSP), PA, from mid-January through late March 2022 to assess potential breeding chronology and habitat-use patterns. Saw-whet Owls vocalized at 60% of ARU stations, and playback surveys produced an additional 2 acoustic detections. Incidental observations detected 2 fledglings in the park. Using ARU surveys, we documented their breeding chronology and found a positive association between vocalization rates and canopy cover. Our results suggest that Saw-whet Owls are nesting in the mixed-deciduous forest within LSP.

Joseph M. Elias, Erin Kibelstis, Tony Desantis, Robert Smith, and Clay E. Corbin "Documenting Northern Saw-Whet Owls Breeding in Mixed-Deciduous Forest," Northeastern Naturalist 31(1), 1-12, (13 February 2024). https://doi.org/10.1656/045.031.0101
Published: 13 February 2024
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top