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RMBO conducts specific research projects to provide scientific insight into the
effects of land management actions, ecological processes (e.g., natural disasters),
and habitat conditions on the health of bird populations. Such information is vital
for understanding the factors underlying population trends and for directing conservation
actions for beneficial results. Conservation partners, from private landowners to
federal land managers, require sound scientific information to manage and conserve
bird populations, many of which are experiencing long-term population declines.
Examples in our region include sage grouse, prairie-chickens, and Long-billed Curlew.
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Studying habitat conditions for migratory birds on playa wetlands
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RMBO research projects provide land managers with feedback regarding the impact
of habitat management decisions on the suitability of habitat for birds. We have
studied the effects on birds of wildfire in pinyon-juniper habitat, timber management
in Ponderosa Pine, and the impacts of roads in sagebrush habitat. Another project
catalogues the trends in aspen tree cavities vital to several bird species in Rocky
Mountain National Park. Our work has documented the importance of playa wetlands
in providing migratory stopover habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl in the Great
Plains, and how land management affects the function of this critical habitat.
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We studied the effects of wetland restoration on bird habitat. We are also studying
factors that influence the density and nesting success of Burrowing Owl, Ferruginous
Hawk, and Mountain Plover in the shortgrass prairie. We are documenting bird distribution
and nesting success in relation to grassland habitat management. Another project
documents the movements of migratory Ferruginous Hawks across North and South America
via satellite radio transmitters.
For more information, please contact: Alison.Cariveau@rmbo.org
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Color-banding an individual Red-naped Sapsucker in a study of aspen cavity use
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Current On-going Projects:
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