Master's Theses

Department

Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Raptorial birds were studied in Ellis and Trego Counties, Kansas, during the period October 1 through April 30, of the 1968-1969 and 1969-1970 winter seasons. Objectives of the study were to determine: (1) species over-wintering, (2) actual and relative numbers, (3) habitat preferences, (4) monthly distribution patterns and (5) effect of weather on numbers and activity of all species observed. A total of 2,669 raptors of 14 species was observed along 5,175 route miles traveled during the two winter seasons. The Marsh Hawk was the most common species observed, followed in descending order by the Rough-legged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Sparrow Hawk, Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle and Ferruginous Hawk. Seven other species were recorded in lesser numbers and treated accordingly in this manuscript. There were some two to two and one-half times as many raptors sighted per unit of travel in this study as in previous studies conducted in nearby states. High winds and rainy weather were the only factors that greatly limited raptor activity.

Keywords

Trego County (Kan.), Ellis County (Kan.), Birds, Hawks, Eagles, Birds of prey, Weather, Animal habitats

Advisor

Dr. Charles A. Ely

Date of Award

Spring 1971

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© The Author(s)

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