Wildlife use of dwarf mistletoe brooms in Douglas-fir in Northeast Oregon

Abstract

Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) trees with and without dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium douglasii) brooms were examined for evidence of use by wildlife. Evidence of foraging occurred in 51% of the broomed trees and in 29% of the trees without brooms. Evidence of nesting by mammals occurred in 18% of the broomed trees and in none of the trees without brooms. Brooms used and those not used by wildlife were significantly different in type and volume. These findings suggest that retaining mistletoe brooms in stands may be important to provide nesting, foraging, resting, and roosting habitat for mammals and birds.