Analysis of microhabitat characteristics at roost sites of Cerulean Warblers

Abstract

Little information exists on songbird roosting habits and the types of habitats that songbirds select. To better understand a species’ habitat requirements, all aspects of its biology should be studied. The Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea, Wilson) is a Nearctic-Neotropical migrant that is a species of conservation concern across its range. It is one of the fastest declining species of wood-warbler (Parulidae) in North America. Since 2007, a breeding population of Cerulean Warblers has been monitored in southern Indiana, as part of the Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment. The Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment is a 100 yr project that studies the effects of different forest management practices on plant and animal communities. During the 2017 breeding season, 10 male Cerulean Warblers were tracked to roost locations. Roost sites selected by male Cerulean Warbler were characterized with less basal area, higher canopy cover, greater grapevine (Vitis spp., L.) presence, less shrubs, steeper slopes, and less white oak (Quercus alba, L.) abundance. With this new knowledge we can incorporate additional features of habitat in the formulation of a management plan for this declining species.