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Publication Date

6-1-2003

Abstract

We initiated a study of Lesser Prairie-Chickens (LPC, Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) in spring 2000 to evaluate survival, reproduction, and habitat selection of 2 populations of LPC in the northeastern portion of the Texas Panhandle. A Hemphill County site contains a stable population of LPC and consists of sand sagebrush (Artemesia filifolia spp.) rangeland with large ranching operations. A Wheeler County site contains a declining population and consists of shinnery oak (Quercus havardii) rangeland consisting of small to midsized farms and ranches. In spring 2001 and 2002, LPC were trapped with drop nets, fitted with radio transmitters. All birds were monitored an average of 4 times per week. A total of 55 LPC have been trapped and radio collared in the stable site, and 30 have been trapped in the declining site. Of 19 females radio-tracked during 2001, 10 were known to nest, 1 hen was known to re-nest, and 6 nests successfully hatched. Data regarding hatch success (60%) was limited to the Hemphill site. Only 2 females attempted to nest at the Wheeler site and both nests failed to produce a successful hatch. Nest success during spring 2002 was low at both sites. Of 13 females monitored, only 5 were known to nest, 1 hen was known to re-nest, 5 did not nest, 2hens were killed prior to nesting and 1 hen was not located until the summer but did not have a brood. Only 1hen was known to have reared a successful brood. To date, no successful nests have been observed for the declining site. Poor nesting habitat as a result of the current drought and overgrazing appears to be the most likely explanation for nest failures. We believe insufficient rainfall, overgrazing, and habitat fragmentation are the most likely explanations for the decrease in LPC numbers at the declining site.

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