BLM-New Mexico (NM) CESU Montezuma Quail Research, Initiative for the Management of Wildlife & Fishery Resources in NM, (Challenge Cost Share), Las Cruces District Office

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To assist the Bureau of Land Management in managing Montezuma quail populations by evaluating Montezuma quail responses to common silviculture and rangeland practices in the Fort Stanton Snowy River National Conservation Area (NCA). (1) To describe spatial patterns and habitat use prior and after thinning projects (canopy cover reduced to a mosaic of 30% to 40% canopy cover) (2) controlled burns determine habitat use in relation to canopy cover (3) determine population characteristics (sex and age composition, survival rates, cause -specific mortality and density) of Montezuma quail in the NCA. Because few studies have been published on Montezuma quail using radio-telemetry, our knowledge on habitat use and life history is overly dependent on anecdotal observations. This study will be the first to document habitat use in relation to canopy cover, thinning projects and response to controlled burns. This project will address several conservation actions and monitoring recommendations for Montezuma quail. We will allow determination of current habitat use as well as provide needed information to construct management schemes to improve or maintain current Montezuma quail habitat. Ultimately, the understanding of the dynamics and ecology of Montezuma quail will aid in their management and the habitat they reside in.

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