Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center
Reducing Predation on Duck Nests Using Fences and Baskets
KIMBAL H. ESKOWICH AND DAVID C. DUNCAN
Saskatchewan Parks and Renewable Resources, Prairie Pothole Project,
P.0. Box 746, Redvers, SK SOC 2HO, Canada
In 1987, the Prairie Pothole Project established four 40-acre introduced Dense
Nesting Cover (DNC) plots using a mixture of tall wheatgrass (Agropyron elongatum
var. orbit), intermediate wheatgrass (A. intermedium var.
Clarke), alfalfa (Medicago sativa var. rangelander), and sweet
clover (Melilotus officionalis). These were subsequently enclosed with
electric predator fences in an attempt to increase waterfowl nesting success
by reducing mammalian predation. In addition, two 40-acre native idle plots
were also fenced to evaluate waterfowl usage and success. Although drought conditions
and reduced pond numbers have persisted since 1987, waterfowl usage of the plots
has continued to increase. In 1988, nine waterfowl nests achieved 100% Mayfield
success, in 1989 31 duck nests achieved 90% Mayfield success, and in 1990 38
waterfowl nests were located within the plots, although success has not yet
been determined. Mallards represent the highest overall use with 83% of total
ducks while blue-winged teal, gadwall, American wigeon, northern shoveler, and
green- winged teal represent the remainder. Utilization of the plots by mourning
doves and sharp-tailed grouse has also continued to increase.
In addition to predator fences, approximately 200 artificial nesting structures
have also been implemented within the study area. These consist of horizonal
metal cones, wire baskets, and plastic baskets. Wire baskets have consistently
received the highest use with 23% (1987), 18% (1988), and 22% (1989) of usable
structures being utilized. Usage of metal cones has remained at approximately
5% of useable structures for all years while no plastic baskets have been
utilized to date. Mallards account for all structure used.
Data for 1990 will be presented as well as preliminary results of nest structure
usage at the Quill Lakes North American Waterfowl Management Plan project.
Previous Section -- Registration of Chemical Agents
for Managing Predation
Return to Contents
Next Section -- Duck Brood Movements Delayed by Predator
Exclosures
U.S. Department of the Interior |
U.S. Geological Survey