Greater Prairie-Chicken Ecology on Prairies and Warm-Season Grass Plantings inMissouri. Habitat Use and Mortality of Greater Prairie-Chickens Relative to Grassland Structure and Landscape Features in Southwestern Missouri

摘要

Information to manage grassland acreage for improved nest success and survival ofgreater prairie-chickens is needed to stabilize Missouri's declining populations. Consequently, we conducted a 3-year study to evaluate the relationships of vegetative characteristics and nest success. Vegetation at roost sites was also quantified, seasonal and annual survival determined, and the effects on survival of placing transmitters on male prairie-chickens explored. The study was conducted in southwest Missouri on two state managed areas. Birds were trapped on booming grounds in April and fitted with leg bands only or a transmitter and leg bands. This sample of birds was then monitored to locate nests and roosts and follow survival. Vegetation was sampled using Daubenmire frames and Robel poles. Results provide limited evidence for no radio-effect on survival of male greater prairie-chickens during the first 2 years of our study.