Nesting of Breeding Birds on an Electric Utility Line Right-Of-Way

Abstract

A nesting study of breeding birds on an electric transmission line right-of-way (ROW) was made in central Pennsylvania in 1991 and 1992. Active nests of 13 bird species were found on the ROW, and 5 of the most common species nested on both handcutand herbicide-treated ROW segments. The average nesting success for all bird species in both years combined was 68%. A nesting success of 70% was obtained on a mowed plus herbicide (cut stubble) ROW unit, 68% on a selective basal spray unit, and 67% on a handcut unit. Shrubs were the most commonly used nesting cover. However, grass and forb cover was also used for nesting by field sparrows and common yellowthroats, in particular, both of which had a 100% nesting success on the ROW.