Landels-Hill Big Creek Reserve

28 Apr, 05 AM - 29 Apr, 04 PM

California Spotted Owl habitat has been drastically affected throughout the Province during the past decade by large-scale tree mortality, wildfire, and timber sales and fuel reduction projects. In 2006, Ventana Wildlife Society conducted surveys at 250 call points to determine Spotted Owl occupancy patterns associated with forest afflicted with Sudden Oak Death Syndrome and other diseases. Eight of those call points occurred in the Big Creek Reserve. In 2008, portions of Los Padres National Forest were burned by a major wildfire. A replication of surveys is necessary in 2009 to document any changes in the number of Spotted Owls and determine how the wildfire and tree mortality has affected Spotted Owl occupancy patterns. In 2006, we observed a considerable number of Spotted Owls in or within 500 meters of a tree mortality polygon. Impacts of Sudden Oak Death Syndrome on Spotted Owls likely lag several years beyond the actual mortality of the stand, because downed woody debris and residual acorns might favor woodrat populations, thereby providing temporary foraging benefits for owls. We have the opportunity in 2009 to monitor changes in Spotted Owl occupancy near tree mortality polygons and assess further changes in occupancy patterns associated with the fire. This study will improve understanding of how habitat threats affect this California Species of Special Concern.

Visit #17564 @Landels-Hill Big Creek Reserve

Approved

Under Project # 6477 | Research

Spotted Owl Survey

professional - Ventana Wilderness / Wildlife Associations

Reservation Members(s)

Mike Stake Apr 28 - 29, 2009 (2 days)

Reserve Resources(s) | Create Invoice

Day use 1 Apr 28 - 29, 2009
Day Use Only 1 Apr 28 - 29, 2009