Analysis of reproductive parameters of golf course nesting birds can provide valuable information on the biological effects of golfer and turf maintenance activities on course wildlife. Because eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) nesting on fairways feed their young on insects collected primarily on managed turf, they may be vulnerable to the chemicals used there. In 1999 and 2000, we monitored bluebird nests on golf courses and in control habitat for first egg date, clutch size, brood size, and nestling condition. Only for brood size did we detect significant effects of habitat type, with golf course broods being slightly smaller than non-golf broods.
Abstract
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