SpATS Study Results

While the SpATS study is ongoing, a great deal of data has already been gathered. Since 2002, over 6400 duck nests have been found and all 120 study sites have been visited at least once.

The following chart illustrates the relationship between nesting success and the amount of perennial vegetation such as grasses and forbs and woody vegetation on the landscape.

Results chart

This figure suggests a connection between perennial vegetation and waterfowl nesting success. However, a strong relationship between perennial vegetation and nesting success has not been demonstrated. But information through 2010 suggests that nesting success at sites with > 35% perennial cover is meeting or exceeding the levels thought necessary to maintain stable duck populations - between 12 to 20%.

Other SpATS analyses are ongoing.

Disclaimer:

SpATS data presented on this Web site cannot be used without written permission from the authors.

 
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