DOT Project Number:  90-00-LRTF-115, 210

Fiscal Year:  1991-1992

Award:  $5,209.00

Principal Investigator:  Dr. Neil Bernstein, Mount Mercy College, neil@mmc.mtmercy.edu

Other Project Participants:  Carrie A. Straight and Kristina K. Baker

Summary Report:

BIRD USAGE AND NESTING IN ROADSIDE VEGETATION: THE EFFECTS OF PERCHES AND MANAGEMENT

Bird usage and nesting success were compared for Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management (IRVM) roadsides with and without utility lines and non-IRVM roadsides with and without utility lines for two breeding seasons in central Iowa. The three most common species using the roadsides were Brown-headed Cowbirds, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Song Sparrows, respectively. IRVM roadsides had the most nests; the majority were Red-winged Blackbird nests. Most nests were parasitized and/or unsuccessful. The presence of perches, shrubs, or trees in the roadsides increased nesting and usage, but also increased brood parasitism. Roadsides were potential ecological traps for nesting birds, and utility lines possibly enhanced negative aspect.