Abundance, Distribution, and Selected Characteristics of Nesting Raptors on the Fort Sill Military Reservation, 1987 to 1992.
Abstract
Raptors receive protection under both federal and state laws, and play an integral role in the ecology of the great plains region. Because of their high position in the food web, raptors can be an indicator of ecosystem health. This study located, mapped, and monitored raptor nests on the Fort Sill Military Reservation, in southwestern Oklahoma, which includes four major impact areas and is the Army's primary field artillery training center. The survey characterized the nest-tree and nest-site, emphasizing the larger species that construct or use more conspicuous stick-nests. Few direct negative impacts from military activities were perceived. Overall density and productivity rates compared favorably with values reported for other regions. Nesting Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks were strongly associated with bottomland forest; Great Homed Owls appeared tolerant of a broader range of habitat conditions. Competitive interactions clearly influenced nest distribution, with little evidence of competitive exclusion. Recommendations were made to reduce disturbance to nesting raptors, and to suggest areas of future research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA302743
Entities
People
- William R. Whitworth
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory