Quick Answer
Grazing timing can significantly impact nesting success by affecting the availability of nesting cover for upland birds. Early spring grazing can reduce nesting success by 30-50% due to loss of protective cover. Late spring or summer grazing can also be detrimental if it occurs during the peak nesting period.
Timing of Grazing for Upland Birds
For native grass restoration and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) areas, it’s essential to manage grazing to minimize disturbance to nesting upland birds. Research suggests that grazing during the dormant season (winter or early spring) can be a viable option, as it reduces the impact on nesting birds. A study in Oklahoma found that grazing during the dormant season did not affect nesting success, whereas spring grazing reduced success by 45%.
Importance of Nesting Cover
Warm-season grasses, such as big bluestem and switchgrass, provide critical nesting cover for upland birds. These grasses provide a dense canopy, which protects nests from predators and harsh weather conditions. For optimal nesting success, it’s recommended to maintain a minimum of 30% nesting cover, which is equivalent to 1-2 inches of vegetation height.
Grazing Strategies
To minimize the impact of grazing on nesting upland birds, land managers can implement strategies such as rotational grazing, delayed grazing, or exclusion of grazing during peak nesting periods. For example, a study in Kansas found that delaying grazing by 60 days after peak nesting periods resulted in a 25% increase in nesting success.
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