Document Type
Thesis - campus only access
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.
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
Comments
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