Effects of Research Activity on Piping Plover Nest Predation
Macivor LH, Melvin SM, Griffin CR. 1990. Effects of Research Activity on Piping Plover Nest Predation. The Journal of Wildlife Management. 54(3):443-447
We examined whether nest monitoring and other research activities influenced rates of red fox (Vulpes vulpes) predation on both natural and artificial piping plover (Charadrius melodus) nests in Massachusetts. The percentage of nests depredated did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) between nests where we trapped and banded incubating adults and nests where we did not trap. Nest predation was significantly lower (P 0.05) predation rates compared to artificial nests monitored from a distance. Daily monitoring of piping plover nests is not likely to result in increased fox predation, and it seems to be an acceptable practice; but, nest visits should be conducted in a manner that minimizes disturbance to nesting plovers. Further research should test whether human scent at piping plover nests is a deterrent to red foxes.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Macivor, Laurie; Melvin, Scott; Griffin, Curtice
- Units
- CACO
- Keywords
- Birds, Cape Cod National Seashore MA, Environmental Impact, Nests & Nesting, Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus), Predation, Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Research Techniques