FJ7

4/23/2021
Start Time: 7:10 am
End Time: 8:55 am
Location: Saxon Hill Recreation Area
Weather: ~50º F, no wind/precipitation
Habitat: mixed deciduous and coniferous forest

Throughout this trip, the primary behavior I encountered related to mate and territory selection was singing, from a variety of different species. I also encountered two Hermit Thrushes chasing each other along one of the trails; this was maybe related to territory establishment or defense. Two of the Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers also appeared to be chasing each other, and this also may have been territory-related. I also saw an American Robin on a nest overhanging one of the trails. The majority of the species seen are likely nesting deeper in the woods, away from the trails and from potential human disturbance. Species such as American Robins or Black-capped Chickadees that build their own nests may have more flexibility in the trees that they can choose to nest in, as opposed to cavity nesters like Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers which are restricted to trees that they are physically able to excavate. Specifically where a species builds its nest, whether high in a tree or closer to the ground, will also influence where it is able to nest.
The nesting American Robin I encountered seemed to be defending a rather poor territory. The nest was on a branch directly above one of the trails, and I imagine that this site makes the nest especially vulnerable to human disturbance. I’m not exactly sure just how often that particular trail is used, however, so it’s possible that it isn’t actually used all that often and disturbance isn’t a major problem. Assuming that this territory is indeed of relatively poor quality, it would indicate that this bird is unable to establish or defend a higher-quality nesting territory.
Another species I encountered singing and likely engaging in breeding activity was the Pine Warbler. Given the composition of the surrounding forests, it’s possible that these birds are using pine needles and moss as part of their nest construction. I also encountered several people walking their dogs, so it’s possible that these birds are using dog hair in their nests for insulation. These materials would all likely be found relatively close to or on the ground.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Raozz4HtTJp-GEvmQscM1i2LrFtRTrAp/view?usp=sharing

Publicado el abril 25, 2021 04:51 TARDE por gracey4