Influence of growing-season prescribed fires on Bachman’s Sparrows in old-growth longleaf pine systems

In recent years, the seasonal effects of prescribed fire have been increasingly studied throughout the southeastern United States.  Land managers often use growing-season (late April – July) prescribed fires because of their ability to decrease hardwood regeneration and to promote plant species such as wiregrass (Aristida sp.) that only reproduce if burned during this time of year.  Some studies suggest that Bachman’s Sparrows  (Aimophila aestivalis), a species requiring frequent fire, may be negatively affected by growing-season prescribed fire due to elimination of nesting habitat during the breeding season.  Due to rapidly declining populations and the classification of Bachman’s Sparrow as a Species at Risk by United States Fish and Wildlife service, it is important to determine factors influencing the reproduction and distribution of this species. 

This study is examining the effects of growing-season prescribed fire on Bachman’s Sparrows found in longleaf pine systems in southern Georgia.  Sparrows are banded and monitored before and after prescribed fires to assess site fidelity, breeding density, male survival, home-range size, and reproductive success.  Additionally, we are trying to assess the effects of large versus small scale prescribed fires to determine how this may affect population demographics.  Determining the effects of growing-season fires on this declining species will be an important consideration for land managers on both public and private lands if legal battles arise that threaten the use of fire during this time of the year.

This research is funded by a grant from the FFWCC (www.floridaconservation.org) in conjunction with Tall Timbers Research Station and Land Conservancy (www.ttrs.org)

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