Northern Spotted Owl Disturbance Study

Project ID: 813306J056

Federal Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Partner Institution: University of Washington

Fiscal Year: 2006

Initial Funding: $39,999

Total Funding: $201,999

Project Type: Research

Project Disciplines: Biological

Abstract: We propose a large-scale study examining how physiological (stress, reproduction function, and nutrition), behavior and reproductive success impacts of OHV exposure vary by sex, breeding stage, exposure history, habitat quality, and breeding year in NSOs. The proposed study will last a minimum of three years following a pilot study conducted in 2005. These four years of data will likely accommodate both good and bad breeding years among NSOs (Courtney, et al. 2004; Franklin, et al. 1999), as well as assure that the sample size is sufficient to demonstrate potential OHV effects across multiple variables. NSOs and nest/roost sites will be located using the 1992 standard protocol (USDA Forest Service 1993). To facilitate nest location, we will work with the National Audubon Society volunteers and Federal managers to conduct owl nest surveys in the study area during the last two weeks of March each year. Data will be collected annually on all 48 pairs during each of the following three breeding stages (Franklin, et al. 2000):
Mating/incubation period: generally during the months of March and April
Post-hatch/pre-fledge period: generally during the month of May
Fledgling period: generally during the month of July