Avian Abundance and Behavior at the James K. Herbert Wetland Prairie Preserve
Fall 2020 - Spring 2021
Mentor: Dr. Gerick Bergsma
CSUMB Department of Biology and Chemistry
Research Questions:
Does there appear to be a difference in avian diversity and abundance across this preserve?
Do the apparent differences in management practices on this preserve impact insectivorous bird behavior?
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Abstract: Vernal pool wetlands were once common across California’s Central Valley, but widespread agriculture has left only fragments of this unique habitat type. The James K. Herbert Wetland Prairie Preserve is one of the few places in Tulare County where these wetlands still occur, and the land is managed using a rotational cattle-grazing regimen. Cattle grazing within vernal pool wetlands can benefit associated plant and invertebrate communities, but the impact of grazing on bird communities is unclear. The goal of my research is to investigate if the land management strategies employed at the James K. Herbert Wetland Prairie Preserve impact the abundance and behavior of the birds in the preserve. I will conduct bird surveys to measure the diversity of the avian communities on different regions of the preserve that differ in grazing and restoration treatments. I will also use time budgets to analyze differences in avian insectivore behavior across these regions. My hope is to contribute to our knowledge about this unique preserve, and how land management practices affect the success of avian communities living there.
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This research would not be possible without the support of UROC at CSUMB, and all the people involved in the LSAMP Rising Researchers Program. It would also not be possible without the cooperation of the Sequoia Riverlands Trust, who graciously allowed me access to their preserves. Thanks to everyone at SRT for all you do.
Background
The James K. Herbert Wetland Prairie Preserve
The Herbert Preserve is a pretty unique landscape in the Tulare Valley. Once agricultural land, the JKHWPP was restored under the management of the Sequoia Riverlands Trust.
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This 725 acre plot is reminiscent of what the Tulare Valley might have looked like prior to the 1800s. It is primarily a grassland and seasonal wetland, supporting a wide range of wildlife. The preserve has been restored and is currently managed in a number of different ways:
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The far northwest corner of the preserve has had it's topography manipulated via earthmovers. The ground is less regular, and there is a slough that winds through it. Native plants have been seeded there. It is not actively grazed by cattle.
The rest of the preserve has not received this intense restoration process. Much of it is maintained by active cattle grazing.
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The preserve really stands out on the landscape when seen from above. It looks really different from the patchwork of agricultural land!
Agricultural Past
On the unrestored portion of the preserve, check levies can still be seen - remnants of the history of this preserve.
Restoration
The restored Northwestern corner of the preserve appears different from the ground.
