Reported are preliminary results of studies being conducted on the willow flycatcher (Empidonax trailii) near Dinkey Creek, Fresno County, California. Willow flycatchers were color-banded with unique, coded sequences allowing us to monitor individuals during the 1983 and 1984 breeding seasons. The chronology of migratory and reproductive events, nest success, home range size, site fidelity, and some aspects of reproductive behavior are documented. Results and implications of counts of the brown headed cowbird, a nest parasite, are presented. Results to date suggest that willow flycatcher production may not be affected by cowbird parasitism, but may be by the activities of range cattle.
|
