southpiedmont

Given the pace of forest loss in South Carolina’s Piedmont region, data are needed to quantify the conservation value of remaining forested areas for South Carolina’s bird populations. In particular, data are needed to identify the conservation value of forest patches embedded in managed and novel ecosystems.

The Brown-headed Nuthatch (Sitta pusilla), among the highest priority forest dwelling species in the State’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, is declining in South Carolina. Though the ideal conservation strategy for nuthatches and associated species is indisputably the preservation of old-growth pine forest, given the aforementioned pressure of increased urbanization on remaining forest cover, data are needed to determine the conservation value of forest patches in urban and rural areas to carry out conservation by more moderate measures.

In this project we are assessing conservation value of pine forest patches for Brown-headed Nuthatches and associated species via two mechanisms: occupancy or abundance and vocal behavior.

Researchers

• Jesse Wood - Furman University (13)
• Ryan Ernstes - Furman University (13)
• Jordan Ellington - Furman University (12-13)
• Jake Crouse - Furman University (12-13)