We examined the influence of landscape configuration created by forest regeneration practices on distribution of Whip-poor-wills (Caprimulgus vociferous) during the breeding season by comparing relative abundance and space use between forest areas (stands ≥ 17 years of age) and regenerating forest edges (regeneration stand ≤ 6 years of age adjacent to forest area). Regenerating forest edges contained greater (P < 0.001) abundance of Whip-poor-wills (x̄ ± SE = 2.4 ± 0.30 birds/10 ha) than forest areas (0.8 ± 0.11 birds/10 ha). Eighty-four percent of detections at regenerating forest edges were from within the regenerating stand. However, Whip-poor-wills within regenerating stands were detected within 100 m of the forested edge with a greater probability (P < 0.001) than expected by chance. The positive response of Whip-poor-wills to forest edges is likely due to proximity and use of foraging habitats. The relatively high number of habitat openings created by some forest regeneration practices provide Whip-poor-wills with foraging opportunities not present in less intensively managed forest systems. Forest management for Whip-poor-wills should consider harvest strategies that maintain the availability of regenerating patches in close proximity to mature forests.
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1 December 2008
Landscape configuration effects on distribution and abundance of Whip-poor-wills
Michael D. Wilson,
Bryan D. Watts
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The Wilson Journal of Ornithology
Vol. 120 • No. 4
December 2008
Vol. 120 • No. 4
December 2008