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Upland gamebird species of grouse, quail, and columbids inhabit all ecoregions of North America from desert-like conditions to arctic tundra. In addition to such varied habitats, no group of birds exhibits a greater diversity of mating systems including monogamy, clumped polygyny (lekking), and dispersed polygyny species. Many of these species possess elaborate courtship displays that are unparalleled for their complexity and beauty making them popular subjects for 'birders' and photographers.
Interest in gamebird populations was initially generated by their hunting potential. When some species began to decline in number, legislation was introduced (as early as 1791 in the United States) to control market hunting. This legislation began a legacy of management efforts by provincial, state, and federal agencies. As a result, an extensive body of literature exists for upland gamebirds, much of which emphasizes demographic trends.
Historical and current land use practices (livestock grazing, timber management, crop production, and development) have resulted in the decline or extirpation of some species from their original range. Additionally, non-native species such as chukar, gray partridge, and ring-necked pheasant have been introduced in certain areas. The usefulness of accurate census information for such a diverse array of gamebird species cannot be over emphasized. Survey data can provide insight into distribution patterns and population trends, both of which are critical for effective management, especially for species that are hunted.
The overall objectives and questions addressed are fundamental considerations in determining the experimental design and survey techniques used. Appropriate sample sizes and statistical power in turn depend on survey design and methods. The purpose of this manual is to outline current survey techniques for upland gamebirds and provide an informative guideline for applying these methods.
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