Master's Theses

Department

Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

Anthropogenic disturbances, particularly road infrastructure and noise pollution, significantly affect avian populations, influencing their ecology, behaviour, and reproductive success. This study examined the impact of highway proximity on the reproductive success of the Northern House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon) in a rural landscape. Noise levels and reproductive outcomes were compared between two sites in Hays, Kansas: a high-traffic site near Interstate 70 (Sternberg Museum Nature Trail) and a lower-traffic site at Big Creek on the Fort Hays State University campus. I hypothesized that increased traffic volume and noise pollution would negatively affect Northern House Wren reproductive success. Ambient noise levels and traffic volumes were significantly higher at the Sternberg site (56.86 ± 14.55 dB; 165.0 ± 36.99 vehicles) compared to Big Creek (45.78 ± 5.90 dB; 49.42 ± 26.27 vehicles). This greater intensity and variability likely contributed to reduced reproductive success by disrupting communication, increasing stress, and exposing nests to disturbances. Reproductive success was notably higher at Big Creek, where conditions were more favourable. The average clutch size was 7.14 eggs in the first brood, with hatch success at 95.9% and fledging success at 89.79%. In the second brood, hatch success declined to 69.24% and fledging success to 44.84%. Correlation analysis revealed a strong negative relationship between traffic volume and reproductive success (r = -0.748, p < 0.001) and a moderate negative correlation with noise level (r = -0.457, p = 0.033). These findings highlight the need for mitigation strategies in road-adjacent habitats to support avian populations and promote successful breeding outcomes.

Keywords

Highway, Reproductive Success, Traffic Disturbance, Northern House Wrens, Conservation

Advisor

Dr. Medhavi Ambardar

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Rights

© The Author

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