Effects of Beaver Dams on Songbird Diversity in Semi-Arid Western Rangelands
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Simona Picardi (Mentor), University of Idaho
Abstract
Semi-arid western rangelands are moisture-limited systems, and riparian habitats are vital for wildlife in these regions. Within riparian habitats, beavers are ecosystem engineers that modify the landscape by building dams along rivers and creeks. Past studies have shown that beavers can positively impact other wildlife, including songbirds. This study examines songbird diversity in relation to dam presence and characteristics at Rinker Rock Creek Ranch (semi-arid sagebrush steppe traversed by a riparian corridor) in southern Idaho. The objective is to test the hypothesis that beaver activity increases songbird diversity in riparian habitats in western rangelands. We predict that songbird diversity will be higher at shorter distances to beaver dams and positively correlated with dam size and density. To test this hypothesis, we are censusing beaver dams and collecting songbird occupancy data via point counts at 15 randomly generated sites along Rock Creek. We will relate songbird diversity with beaver dam locations and characteristics using occupancy models. This research will provide valuable information to managers at Rinker Rock as they implement the construction of artificial beaver dam analogs along the creek in the future. This research is in progress, but the data collection will be completed by the end of Summer 2024.
Effects of Beaver Dams on Songbird Diversity in Semi-Arid Western Rangelands
Semi-arid western rangelands are moisture-limited systems, and riparian habitats are vital for wildlife in these regions. Within riparian habitats, beavers are ecosystem engineers that modify the landscape by building dams along rivers and creeks. Past studies have shown that beavers can positively impact other wildlife, including songbirds. This study examines songbird diversity in relation to dam presence and characteristics at Rinker Rock Creek Ranch (semi-arid sagebrush steppe traversed by a riparian corridor) in southern Idaho. The objective is to test the hypothesis that beaver activity increases songbird diversity in riparian habitats in western rangelands. We predict that songbird diversity will be higher at shorter distances to beaver dams and positively correlated with dam size and density. To test this hypothesis, we are censusing beaver dams and collecting songbird occupancy data via point counts at 15 randomly generated sites along Rock Creek. We will relate songbird diversity with beaver dam locations and characteristics using occupancy models. This research will provide valuable information to managers at Rinker Rock as they implement the construction of artificial beaver dam analogs along the creek in the future. This research is in progress, but the data collection will be completed by the end of Summer 2024.