AVIS-IBIS

Birds of Indian Subcontinent

Nest Habitat Use of Rio Grande Wild Turkeys

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1989
Authors:Schmutz, JA, Braun, CE, Andelt, WF
Journal:The Wilson Bulletin
Volume:101
Issue:4
Date Published:1989
ISBN Number:00435643
Keywords:Meleagris, Meleagris gallopavo, Phasianidae
Abstract:Nest habitat use of Rio Grande Wild Turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia) was studied along the South Platte River in northeast Colorado in 1986-87. Thirtythree of 35 nests were in riparian habitats. Nests were either in western snowberry (Symphoricarpos occidentalis) (67%) or mixed forbs and grasses (33%). Early season nests were more likely to be in snowberry than late season nests. Nest sites were characterized by greater overstory canopy cover, more shrubs, fewer grasses, and greater understory cover and height than surrounding areas. These areas had more shrubs, fewer large trees, and greater understory cover and height than riparian habitats throughout the study area. Phenology of understory vegetation and the effect of such vegetation on nest predation may influence temporal patterns of nest habitat use.
URL:http://www.jstor.org/stable/4162788
Short Title:The Wilson Bulletin
Taxonomic name: 
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith