Effects of Wetland Management Strategies on Habitat Use of Fall Migrating Rails on Intensively-Managed Wetland Complexes in Missouri

The impact of wetland loss and current wetland management on migratory rails during the autumn migration is unknown though encountering a largely dry landscape during the autumn season probably inhibits habitat use, density and survival. Little is known about habitat selection of Sora (Porzana carolina), Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola) and King Rails (Rallus elegans) in the Mississippi Flyway. Further, I know nothing about how flooding and habitat management affects migrating rails during autumn migration. To answer these questions and inform future research on rail survival, I conducted standardized distance sampling surveys across 10 state and federal wetland properties in Missouri, USA from 2012-2015 during autumn migration to estimate density and habitat selection for these three species.

Author(s)
Auriel M.V. Fournier
Type of document
Report
Program
A large bird with brown feathers, white head, and yellow beak flies against a pale blue sky
The Migratory Bird Program works with partners to protect, restore and conserve bird populations and their habitats for the benefit of future generations by: ensuring long-term ecological sustainability of all migratory bird populations, increasing socioeconomic benefits derived from birds,...
Species
Subject tags
Migratory birds