Habitat Analysis for Lesser Prairie-Chickens in New Mexico
Author Information
Author(s): Kristine Johnson, Teri B. Neville, Paul Neville
Primary Institution: University of New Mexico
Hypothesis
What is the distribution and quality of suitable habitat for lesser prairie-chickens in southeastern New Mexico?
Conclusion
Only a fraction of the apparently suitable vegetation types constitute quality habitat for lesser prairie-chickens, but some patches could be restored.
Supporting Evidence
- 16% of suitable habitat is distributed in patches of at least 3,200 ha.
- 95% of agricultural conversion occurred on private lands.
- 62% of the primary population area contained occupied, suitable, or potentially suitable habitat.
Takeaway
This study looked at where lesser prairie-chickens live in New Mexico and found that while there seems to be a lot of suitable land, much of it isn't good enough for them to thrive.
Methodology
Geographic Information System (GIS) habitat analyses were performed to identify and quantify suitable, restorable, and unsuitable habitats for lesser prairie-chickens.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on specific habitat types and may not account for all ecological factors affecting lesser prairie-chickens.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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