Effect of Corvid Removal. on Reproduction of Willow Ptarmigan and Black Grouse

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Abstract
Hooded crows (Corvus corone cornix), ravens (C. corax), and black-billed magpies (Pica pica) were removed from willow ptarmigan (L. lagopus lagopus) and black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) habitat during nesting and early brood-rearing for 4 yr. Nest loss, chick mortality, production, and nesting densities were measured on the removal and a control area. Where corvids were removed, estimated ptarmigan nest loss was lower during 1 of 4 years but chick mortality, production, and nesting densities were conducted. Estimated black grouse nest loss was lower but chick mortality and production were unaffected. Compensatory nest predation, apparently by ermine (Mustela erminea), occurred in the absence of corvids. Corvid control was not an effective management technique for increasing production or nesting densities during a period of high tetraonid production and population increases.

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