Quick Answer
To recognize habitat signs of upland birds, look for specific vegetation patterns, such as dense broom snakeweed or sparse bunchgrasses, and identify signs of nesting and foraging, including scrape sites and scattered seeds.
Habitat Indicators for Ground-Dwelling Upland Birds
Ground-dwelling upland birds, such as sage grouse and prairie chickens, often inhabit areas with sparse to moderate bunchgrasses and scattered shrubs like greasewood or saltbush. For example, look for the distinctive “whitening” of vegetation around sage grouse nesting sites, caused by the birds’ habit of raking the soil with their feet to create a scrape. In areas where these birds are present, you may also notice scattered seeds and broken vegetation, indicating recent foraging activity.
Habitat Indicators for Perching Upland Birds
Perching upland birds, such as grouse and quail, often inhabit areas with dense shrubs and small trees, like juniper or cedar. Look for the presence of these shrubs, particularly in areas with rocky outcroppings or other features that provide perching sites. In addition, search for signs of nesting, such as nests constructed from twigs and grasses, often placed in the lower branches of shrubs or small trees.
Identifying Nesting and Foraging Sites
When searching for upland bird habitats, pay attention to the density and diversity of vegetation, as well as the presence of signs of nesting and foraging. For example, the presence of several scrape sites, each about 10-15 feet in diameter, can indicate the presence of a sage grouse lek. Similarly, scattered seeds and broken vegetation can indicate that a group of prairie chickens is foraging in the area. By paying attention to these signs, you can develop a more accurate understanding of the upland bird habitats in a given area.
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