Abstract

This paper deals with the seasonal distribution, relative abundance, and location of the different species of birds which visit or live on the Brigham Young University campus from late summer to early spring, with a brief account of their activities. The upper campus, where this investigation was carried on, covers an area of 201 acres and is situated on a bench at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains. The study was continued from July 13, 1955 to April 15, 1956. A total of 173 hours was devoted to census work and to studying the general ecology of the area. Four to five censuses were taken in each month of study. In order to measure the relative abundance, the total number of each species seen per hour was calculated. The location of each species found during this study was plotted on an outline map of the campus. Fifty-five different kinds of birds were seen on the campus during this study. The Western Robin, English Sparrow, California Quail, Song Sparrow and Red-shafted Flicker were seen constantly in every month of study. The Red Crossbill and Sage Hen, two most uncommon species in this area, were observed. The maximum number of species was found in July, and the minimum in December. Nests of House Finch, Western Robin, Blackheaded Grosbeak, Song Sparrow, Long-tailed Chat, California Quail, Mourning Dove, Pine Siskin, Starling and English Sparrow were found in this study area. New arrivals were noticed in every month. The majority of these species, as well as individuals, were located in the tree area bordering the canal. From this study it was found that the Brigham Young University campus provides a very suitable habitat for many species of birds. Ample cover, food, and water are available, and firearms are prohibited. The movement of students and other traffic about the campus does not seem to hamper the birds in their normal activities to any appreciable degree.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Rights

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