Population ecology of the Chinese grouse, Bonasa sewerzowi, in a fragmented landscape

Abstract

We report the first population ecology study of the endangered Chinese grouse (Bonasa sewerzowi). The study population was stable during 1995–2000. Annual rates of survival were 0.64 for adults and only 0.17 for chicks to 13 weeks of age. Reproductive parameters were 6.1 eggs/clutch, 63% nest success, and overall 3.6 chicks hatched/female/year. The spring sex ratio was 64% males, with 44% of the males unmated in spring. Local people found an estimated 10–29% of the nests and took the eggs for food. Only about 9% of the reserve containing the study area is mature mixed forest, the preferred habitat. Inadequate brood habitat may have influenced chick survival and the skewed adult sex ratio may be a result of habitat fragmentation. We recommend protecting the remaining mixed forest, creating more brood habitat, and stopping the taking of eggs.