I examined bird population responses to a managed forested landscape resulting from management for Ruffed Grouse (Bonasus umbellus) habitat in central Pennsylvania during three consecutive springs, 2005–2007. The number of bird species increased from 2001–2002 (n = 40) to 2005–2007 (n = 46). Abundance of all species combined declined (0.10 ≥ P ≥ 0.05), perhaps because the area was more heterogenous in 2001–2002 than in 2005–2007. Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) was the most common species in both 2001–2002 and 2005–2007. Six of the 20 common species were detected only in the treated sector in both periods; none was specific to the reference sector. Despite increased forest maturation, no populations of early successional bird species declined (P ≤ 0.05) between periods, but populations of three other species did. Management of the Barrens Grouse Habitat Management Area for Ruffed Grouse habitat did not have a profound effect on bird populations from 2001–2002 to 2005–2007 subsequent to the last cutting cycle.
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1 December 2008
Bird Responses to a Managed Forested Landscape
Richard H. Yahner
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The Wilson Journal of Ornithology
Vol. 120 • No. 4
December 2008
Vol. 120 • No. 4
December 2008