Researcher(s)
- John Hendell, Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Jeffrey Buler, Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware
- Christopher Williams, Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware
Abstract
Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) populations have declined sharply across their range beginning in the middle-late 20th century. This decline is especially concerning due to their role as prey and seed dispersers in their habitat, as well as important cultural symbols. Previous studies have focused on habitat loss and fragmentation at a landscape scale as primary factors influencing bobwhite population declines. Automated radio telemetry and historical habitat data are currently being utilized to investigate bobwhite habitat use at a fine scale at Cedar Swamp Wildlife Management Area (WMA) here in Delaware. An automated radio telemetry network of 44 nodes and 1 central receiver tower in a 1 square kilometer area has been constructed to track radio collared bobwhite. Up to 12 bobwhites will be captured at Cedar Swamp, with 5 adult males already captured and fitted with radio collars. The collars fitted to captured bobwhites will send out an individual specific radio signal every 15 seconds for up to two years. These signals are picked up by the nodes surrounding the bobwhite’s location at that moment and sent to the receiver tower as unique “pings”. These radio signals can then be used to determine the bird’s location using trilateration methods. Historical data used consists of fall whistle surveys transposed onto aerial photographs showing approximate location of singing coveys. This data will be used in conjunction with the data collected from telemetry to elucidate habitat use patterns at a fine scale. The findings of this study will be used to aid managers at Cedar Swamp WMA and other similar properties improve habitat for Northern Bobwhite and increase their numbers.