Openland and grassland associated bird species have experienced drastic declines over the last three decades. Encroachment of both native (i.e., Red cedar (Juniperus virginiana)) and non-native (i.e., Autumn olive (Eleaganus umbellata Thunb.)) woody shrubs have converted many idle pastures and haylands to late successional old fields. The USDA recommended the management of large openland areas to benefit grassland-dependent threatened and endangered species. Pennant Bar Ranch represents an excellent openlands opportunity because it is of sufficient size to support area-sensitive species. The USFS is now converting this site from late old field woody shrubs and cool season grasses to warm season grasses and forbs. This conversion and management of Pennant Bar Ranch is designed to restore early old field herbaceous grasslands.
Enhanced reproductive success of openland bird species is one of the management objectives of the Shawnee National Forest’s openlands management plan. I will examine the pattern of habitat settlement and habitat selection by Dickcissels and relationships with reproductive success. This research will enhance our understanding of the ecology of Dickcissel nesting. This project will also aid the USFS in assessing the effect of openlands management practices on avian species utilization.
