Forest fragmentation and Red-cockaded Woodpecker population: an analysis at intermediate scale

Abstract

The Red-cockaded Woodpecker population on the Sam Houston National Forest in Texas was surveyed during 1988. The 128 active clusters present make this population one of the largest in existence. Pine stand ages varied considerably across the forest. Correlation analysis indicated that stand area in excess of 60 yr of age is positively correlated with measures of woodpecker density. This relationship is present across a range of areas from individual compartments (= 520 ha) to blocks of 10-15 compartments. A positive correlation of area in pines of 60 yr of age and number of woodpeckers per group suggests that the causes of these relationships are still operating. It is hypothesized that the fragmentation of forest in excess of 60 yr of age by younger stands is impacting the demographics of this population.

Citation

Rudolph, D. Craig; Conner, Richard N. 1994. Forest fragmentation and Red-cockaded Woodpecker population: an analysis at intermediate scale. Journal of Field Ornithology 65(3):365-375.