Nesting ecology of saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows in a tidally restricted salt marsh
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
1-1-2002
Abstract
We investigated population size, nest success, and nest-site characteristics of Saltmarsh Sharptailed Sparrows (Ammodramus caudacutus) from 1993 to 1998 in a salt marsh near Galilee, Rhode Island. From 1956 to 1997, tidal flow was restricted in the marsh by construction of a road with small culverts, which resulted in conversion of the marsh from short- and tall-form cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) and marsh hay (S. patens) to one dominated by >5 m tall common reed (Phragmites australis). In fall 1997, self-regulating tide gates were installed to restore the historic tidal regime and vegetation. We documented declines in adult sparrow population sizes (17-25% annual decline) and productivity (48% annual decline) while the tidal regime was restricted. Nest success was variable (10-83%) before 1998, with predators accounting, and short common reed. After restoration, sparrows nested where vegetation was taller, which permitted greater nest elevation. However, 91% of nests failed due to flooding following installation of new tide gates. We hypothesize that restoration efforts will have short-term negative impacts on Saltmarsh Sharptailed Sparrow populations until salt marsh habitats are restored in higher sections of the marsh.
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
Wetlands
Volume
22
Issue
1
Citation/Publisher Attribution
DiQuinzio, Deborah A., Peter W.C. Paton, and William R. Eddleman. "Nesting ecology of saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows in a tidally restricted salt marsh." Wetlands 22, 1 (2002). doi: 10.1672/0277-5212(2002)022[0179:NEOSST]2.0.CO;2.