thumbnail

Loss of sagebrush ecosystems and declining bird populations in the Intermountain West: Priority research issues and information needs

Fact Sheet 122-02
By:
https://doi.org/10.3133/fs12202

Links

Abstract

Sagebrush lands in the Intermountain West are declining rapidly in quality and extent. Consequently, populations of many bird species dependent on these ecosystems also are declining. The greater sage-grouse has been petitioned for listing as a threatened and endangered species, and other species of sagebrush-obligate birds have special conservation status in most states. We identified the primary issues and information needs during a multi-agency workshop, conducted in response to concerns by management agencies related to declining bird population trends in sagebrush habitats. Priority needs were to (1) obtain a better understanding of bird response to habitat and landscape features, (2) develop monitoring designs to sample habitats and bird populations, (3) determine the effects of land use on sagebrush habitats and dependent bird species, and (4) identify linkages between breeding and wintering ranges. This agenda will identify causes and mechanisms of population declines in birds dependent on sagebrush ecosystems and will lead to better management of the ecosystems upon which they depend.
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Loss of sagebrush ecosystems and declining bird populations in the Intermountain West: Priority research issues and information needs
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 122-02
DOI 10.3133/fs12202
Year Published 2002
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description 2 p.
First page 1
Last page 2
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details