The Effects of Nest-Site Selection and Microclimate on Nest Survival in Sparrows of High Elevation

Abstract

Nest-site selection is important in the determination of nest success in several bird species (Holway 1991, Wells and Fuhlendorf 2005). Birds that nest in high elevation breeding sites are under greater environmental stress, making it even more crucial for individuals to choose nest microclimates that buffer the nest and offspring from extreme weather events and provide stable conditions for the young (Bears et al. 2009). The Microclimate Selection Hypothesis predicts that females should choose nesting sites that best protect them and their offspring from severe or unpredictable weather events, such as extreme temperatures or high wind (With and Webb 1993, Wells and Fuhlendorf 2005). The relationship between nest-site characteristics, nest microclimate, and nest survival was examined in Mountain White-crowned Sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys oriantha) and the Lincoln’s Sparrows (Melospiza lincolnii) in three subalpine meadow sites in Gothic, CO. There were no significant differences between the nest-site characteristics of nests with a more stable microclimate and nests with a less stable microclimate, though the two groups did have significantly different microclimates. Overhead nest concealment and distance to the nearest road had a positive effect on daily nest survival but none of the nest characteristics had a significant positive or negative effect on the model.

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