Loafing Coverts Used by Northern Bobwhites in Subtropical Environments

Abstract

We measured structural and microclimatic attributes of 119 northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) loafing coverts on 2 study areas in southern Texas during 1985-86. During warmer periods, northern bobwhites used tall, dense coverts with reduced (P 2 dm than warmweather coverts. Canopy coverage of brush within 30 m of loafing sites (f = 26%) was higher (P 15% reduces habitat quality and decreases numbers of bobwhites available for harvest (Guthery 1986:19). Various methods are used to remove or control brush, but information on the type and structure of brush to preserve for bobwhites is limited. Therefore, our objectives were to determine the structural characteristics of bobwhite loafing coverts, identify seasonal trends in loafing covert characteristics, and determine attributes of loafing coverts selected by bobwhites. We thank E. E. Guerra and C. K. McCan for trespass privileges. Special thanks for assistance in field work and data analysis go to A. H. Kane and N. E. Koerth. The study was funded by the Caesar Kleberg Foundation for Wildlife Conservation.