Dissertation Research: Avian Nest Predation by Raccoons: Linking Raccoon Foraging Ecology to Patterns of Predation

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9520575 Brown Nest predation has long been recognized as the cause of the majority of failed avian nesting attempts. Because of its impact on reproductive success, nest predation has been hypothesized to structure avian communities and contribute to suspected population declines of many species. This research uses and extends the methodology of foraging theory and the framework of predator-prey interactions to investigate the foraging ecology of a dominant mammalian nest predator, the raccoon. The research links the foraging behavior of raccoons to the direct impact of nest predation, and indirect interactions among nesting birds. Specific objectives include: 1)quantifying the impact of nest predation on three woodland bird species, 2) determining the indirect interactions mediated by shared predation, and 3) investigating the habitat associated risks of foraging in raccoons and the consequence for nesting birds. This research will enhance our basic understanding of the direct and indirect impact of nest predation on bird populations, as well as the role of nest predation in structuring avian communities. Results will also be applicable to issues related to ecosystem management and conservation of biodiversity. These may be especially important given the recent decline in the population sizes of many bird species.