Avian Communities of Some Grazed and Ungrazed Riparian Habitats in Ellis County, Kansas

Author

Thomas L. Flowers, Fort Hays State University

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

DOI

10.58809/YLEU4696

Date of Award

1979

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Advisor

Charles A. Ely

Abstract

Eight riparian sites along the two major rivers in Ellis County, Kansas, were studied during summer of 1978. Studies were designed to elucidate historical intensity of livestock grazing, vegetative cover and structure, and avian populations. Grazing limited the growth of woody vegetation, but its effects on the overall vegetation enhanced the avian community. Avian richness and species diversity tended to be greatest in heavily grazed sites. Ungrazed sites had more woody vegetation than did grazed sites, and consequently were inhabited by more eastern bird species which thereby extended their ranges westward. This study indicated that livestock grazing of riparian habitat was not detrimental to avian populations.

Comments

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Recommended Citation

Flowers, Thomas L., "Avian Communities of Some Grazed and Ungrazed Riparian Habitats in Ellis County, Kansas" (1979). Master's Theses. 1748.
DOI: 10.58809/YLEU4696
Available at: https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/1748

Rights

© 1979 Thomas L. Flowers