Title

Effect of Perch Sites on Mourning Dove Nest Distribution

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

Western North American Naturalist

Volume

65

Issue

1

Publication Date

2005

First Page

64

Last Page

69

Abstract

We examined the effect of natural and artificial perch sites on Western Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura marginella) nest density in shrubby habitat. Nest density in shrubs was strongly correlated with the density of natural perch sites. This relationship occurred in 2 vegetation types with differing shrub composition. The correlation was stronger in areas with a homogenous shrub layer. Nest density was also higher in plots with artificial perch sites than in adjacent control plots. Nest density increased between years in plots where artificial perch sites were constructed but remained the same in adjacent control plots. Knowledge of perch-site effects has practical management applications in areas where doves nest in shrubby habitat. The possibility exists that perch sites could be managed for nest density in these habitats.

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