Patterns of space use in grassland bird communities during winter.

Abstract

The use of space by grassland birds during winter is variable, but generally exhibits patterns which indicate high intra- and intersite mobility. Only LeConte's sparrow Ammodramus leconteii exhibited space use resembling territories, but these may be maintained by avoidance rather than defense. Individual distance was inversely correlated with habitat height and habitat density. Social behavior enhancing predator detection appears to be an important factor influencing use of space by grassland birds. -Author