Grasshopper Sparrow distribution, habitat associations, and use as an indicator species for grassland birds in southwestern Minnesota

摘要: Reductions in grassland habitat due to agricultural conversion have caused severe declines in populations of many grassland bird species. Effective grassland bird conservation requires efficient use of limited funding. Techniques advocated by conservationists include: 1) focusing management activities on a single indicator species that represents the habitat and management requirements of other species, 2) managing existing preserved habitat for appropriate vegetation structure to ensure desired population responses, and 3) identifying areas of high value for species of interest through remotely sensed data. In Minnesota, the Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) has been identified as a species of conservation interest and potential management indicator species. My objectives were to: 1) assess the extent to which the Grasshopper Sparrow and seven other passerines might serve as grassland …