Spatial Variation in Lesser Prairie-Chicken Demography: A Sensitivity Analysis of Population Dynamics and Management Alternatives

摘要: Abstract The lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) is currently considered a candidate for protection under the Endangered Species Act. To identify potential limiting factors populations, we developed an age-based matrix model of population dynamics to compare relative importance components reproduction and survival, determine if various management alternatives stabilize or increase rates change. We based our analyses on intensive 6-year study from which demographic were estimated each age class in Kansas. used deterministic models elasticity values parameters predicted have greatest effect rate change (λ) at 2 sites. Last, life-stage simulation analysis simulate alternatives. Lambda was <1 both populations (site 1: λ  =  0.54, site 2: 0.74). However, found differences sensitivity nest succe...