Nest predator use of food plots within a forest matrix: an experiment using artificial nests

Abstract

Food plots are often used to enhance habitat for game species within forested systems, but food plots also create edge within the forested matrix that may attract nest predators. Because little information exists regarding how food plots affect nest predation, we examined predation rates on artificial nests placed in 30 food plots (0.70–13.0 ha). We determined that four spatial variables and one temporal variable were important predictors of predator use of food plots. Predators used forested edges more intensively than fallow strips within food plots and small food plots with short perimeters more intensively than large food plots with long perimeters. As food plots became more irregularly shaped, intensity of predator use increased. Last, predators used food plots more intensively during the early nesting season (May) than during the later nesting season (July). Because many bird species nest along food plot/forest ecotones or in native vegetation within periodically disturbed sites, managers should consider food plot designs that reduce encounter rates between nesting birds and their predators.