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Determining nest predators of the Least Bell's Vireo through point counts, tracking stations, and video photography

Journal of Field Ornithology
By: , , and 
https://doi.org/10.1648/0273-8570-75.1.89

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Abstract

We compared three methods to determine nest predators of the Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) in San Diego County, California, during spring and summer 2000. Point counts and tracking stations were used to identify potential predators and video photography to document actual nest predators. Parental behavior at depredated nests was compared to that at successful nests to determine whether activity (frequency of trips to and from the nest) and singing vs. non-singing on the nest affected nest predation. Yellow-breasted Chats (Icteria virens) were the most abundant potential avian predator, followed by Western Scrub-Jays (Aphelocoma californica). Coyotes (Canis latrans) were abundant, with smaller mammalian predators occurring in low abundance. Cameras documented a 48% predation rate with scrub-jays as the major nest predators (67%), but Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana, 17%), gopher snakes (Pituophis melanoleucus, 8%) and Argentine ants (Linepithema humile, 8%) were also confirmed predators. Identification of potential predators from tracking stations and point counts demonstrated only moderate correspondence with actual nest predators. Parental behavior at the nest prior to depredation was not related to nest outcome.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Determining nest predators of the Least Bell's Vireo through point counts, tracking stations, and video photography
Series title Journal of Field Ornithology
DOI 10.1648/0273-8570-75.1.89
Volume 75
Issue 1
Year Published 2004
Language English
Publisher Association of Field Ornithologists
Contributing office(s) Western Ecological Research Center
Description 7 p.
First page 89
Last page 95
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