Master's Theses

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Date of Award

1979

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Advisor

Charles A. Ely

Abstract

Foraging activity, local dispersal, and roosting behavior were studied for the Harris Sparrow (Zonotrichia querula), Dark- eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis), and Tree Sparrow (Spizella arborea) in two disturbed habitats in Ellis County, Kansas, from 5 November 1978 through 15 March 1979. The three species were partially separated by their preferences in foraging habitat and seed size. Juncos showed partial overlap for natural foods with both other species; less overlap occurred between the Harris Sparrow and Tree Sparrow. Foraging height was not significant in the partitioning of resources. Harris Sparrows and juncos shifted from natural to artificial sources of food when snow cover became complete. Harris Sparrows returned to natural sources as the snow cover disappeared; juncos remained partially dependent on feeders. Nearly complete overlap occurred when the three species frequented artificial sources of food. Harris Sparrows and juncos occurred in Single species flocks with poorly- to- well- defined structure and behavior; Tree Sparrow flocks were loosely defined and erratic in behavior. Dispersal of flocks to and from feeding habitats and their roost sites were described.

Comments

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Rights

© 1979 Mark A. Ports

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