Electric Fencing: A Technique Designed to Increase Waterfowl Nesting Success
File(s)
Date
1983-05Author
Gruenwald, Tim R.
Publisher
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, College of Natural Resources
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Predation is a major factor causing the decline of waterfowl nesting
success in the prairie pothole region of North America. Predator reduction
using lethal methods increases nesting success but is unacceptable.
The study was conducted in west-central Minnesota during the 1980 and
1981 waterfowl nesting seasons. The objective was to determine if
electric fences would function in field situations as a non-lethal predator
management technique and increase waterfowl nesting success. Six
electric fences, enclosing 105 ha of nesting cover, were constructed on
Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA's). Nearby WPA's consisting of similar
cover served as controls. Waterfowl nesting, simulated nest, and small
mammal relative abundance studies were conducted to determine differences
between predator activity in fenced (treatment) and unfenced (control)
areas. Results for the 2-year study period: waterfowl nesting success
was 60% and 24% as calculated by the conventional method and 35% and 8%
as calculated by the Mayfield method in treatment and control areas
respectively; simulated nest success was 48% and 25% in treatment and
control areas respectively; small mammal relative abundance (captures/100
trap nights) was 17.14 and 10.20 in treatment and control areas respectively.
Based on a 20-year proration, each additional duckling produced
in the treatment areas cost an estimated $2.18. Dikes, peninsulas, and
small areas (1-10 ha) that are managed for maximum waterfowl production
are recommended locations for electric fences.