Characteristics of coastal sage scrub in relation to fire history and use by California gnatcatchers

Abstract

Abstract: Plant cover and vegetation structure were examined at two inland coastal sage scrub sites differing in fire history and use by California gnatcatchers. Salvia mellifera and Eriogonum fasciculatum dominated one site; shrub cover on gnatcatcher occupied plots averaged 50 percent greater than on unoccupied plots. At the other site, gnatcatcher-occupied plots had high cover of Artemisia californica and Encelia farinosa while unoccupied plots were dominated by E. farinosa alone and had half as much total shrub cover. Gnatcatcher territories at both sites had taller shrubs than unoccupied plots. Recently burned areas and areas with little regrowth were not used by gnatcatchers.

Parent Publication

• The Biswell symposium: fire issues and solutions in urban interface and wildland ecosystems; February 15-17, 1994; Walnut Creek, California

Citation

Beyers, Jan L.; Pena, Ginger C. 1995. Characteristics of coastal sage scrub in relation to fire history and use by California gnatcatchers. In: Weise, David R.; Martin, Robert E., technical coordinators. The Biswell symposium: fire issues and solutions in urban interface and wildland ecosystems; February 15-17, 1994; Walnut Creek, California. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-158. Albany, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture: 153-154.