Avian response to feathering habitat edges in an agricultural landscape in southwestern Ohio

Abstract

Edge feathering is a habitat restoration method that potentially benefits early successional wildlife species. Past studies have shown that it can increase populations of certain game bird species, such as Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Therefore, it is expected that edge feathering will also lead to increases in edge-inhabiting songbird species. This study evaluates the effect of edge feathering on specific Federal Trust songbird species in Ohio that are of conservation concern. Songbirds were observed using point counts to determine presence and abundance in treated and control sites. Vegetation data was evaluated on all plots by measuring ground cover, horizontal visual obstruction, overhead cover, and shrub density. Fourteen birds had a frequency of occurrence above 10%, and 3 of those are listed as Federal Trust species. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate relationships between these 14 bird species and treatment type, site location, and vegetation characteristics. Most birds did not show associations with edge feathered plots in general. However, the Wood Thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea), Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), and Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) were correlated with specific habitat variables. This supports my expectation that edge feathering has some impact on presence and abundance of important bird species, and that it may hold potential as a method of habitat restoration. I recommend that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) continue to maintain and evaluate these sites and their impacts on species associated with early successional habitats.