Avian Predator Response to Intensive Forest Management in the Central Appalachian Mountains

Rebecca D.M. Smith, West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, BRD/USGS and West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Petra Bohall Wood, West Virginia Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, BRD/USGS and West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

W. Mark Ford, USDA Forest Service, Northeast Research Station, Parsons, WV, 26287

John W. Edwards, Division of Forestry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, 26506

Abstract We are examining the responses of avian predators, including Corvids, to intensive forest management on the Westvaco Wildlife and Ecosystem Research Forest (WERF). Direct responses of these predators to intense habitat modification have rarely been investigated. This study is based on the compartments created in conjunction with Westvaco's Long-term Appalachian Landscape Ecology Project. Since March, we have established 8 survey points in each of the 6 compartments on the WERF (n = 48). Beginning in May 2000, monthly broadcast surveys have confirmed 7 diurnal raptor species and 2 Corvid species. Each 10 minute survey, conducted with standard broadcast survey methods, used a great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) vocalization and had 2 observers. The most common species detected were red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus) and broad-winged hawk (B. platypterus). We have located 15 nests, three of which were occupied in the 2000 breeding season. Species occupying these nests were red-tailed hawk (B. jamaicensis, fledged 1 young), broad-winged hawk (fledged 2), and red-shouldered hawk (failed). Seven nests were unoccupied, and the status of the remaining 5 was unknown because they were found after the breeding season. Techniques for nocturnal surveys were also being developed towards the end of the 2000 breeding season. Four species of owls have been confirmed on the WERF during 2 months of surveys. Incidental sightings have confirmed 5 additional raptor species not detected on surveys. In the summer of 2001, we hope to use telemetry to determine responses of specific raptor species to fragmentation and disturbance. The results of this study will provide needed information about species assemblage, relative abundance, and spatial distribution of the raptor community in an intensively managed forest.