| This study examines Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) nest success, nest-site selection, and nestling growth and survival with the goal of establishing conservation and management plans for hayfields of Quebec and Ontario. Bobolink nest survival increased with age of the nest and was higher in managed hayfields than at less-managed sites in close proximity to wetlands. Female bobolinks selected nests with higher forb composition and higher overhead concealment. If haying in the region is optimally delayed until 15 July and minimally until 1 July, this allows time for Bobolink young to fledge, as well as harvesting of hay late to use as animal fodder. For late-cut fields, increased forb composition provides high-quality nesting habitat. For early-cut fields, which ultimately lead to nest and nestling destruction, nesting may be deterred by a lack of forbs. Basic Bobolink nest ecology and nestling growth is described to serve as a baseline for further research on this understudied species. |
