Bird communities of prairie uplands and wetlands in relation to farming practices in Saskatchewan

D. Shutler, A. Mullie and R.G.Clark

Objectives:

Compare the ecological benefits of reduced tillage and organic farming relative to conventional farming by comparing bird populations on farms.

Status Report: Complete

Summary:

Bird numbers were compared in uplands and wetlands in the wild, and on farms that were conventional, reduced tillage or organic. Wild upland sites had more birds and more types of birds than conventional farm uplands. Reduced tillage and organic uplands had intermediate numbers and types. Wetlands had more birds and more types of birds than uplands. Wetlands on organic farms had more birds than reduced tillage or conventional farms. Some species were more likely to be seen on organic farms and wild sites. Wetlands were important habitats for birds, and thus conservation emphasis was placed in these areas.

Impact:

Organic farms are important in conserving biodiversity. Organic management can be less harmful to wetland wildlife than other farm management.

Research Establishment: Canadian Wildlife Service, Saskatoon

Funding Sources: Canadian Wildlife Service

Researchers and Contact Information:

D. Shutler, A. Mullie and R.G.Clark, Canadian Wildlife Service, 115 Perimeter Road, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N 0X4, Canada.

Citation: Conservation-Biology. 2000, 14: 5, 1441-1451