Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program: Louisiana
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

Little is known about how hydrologic variability influences movement of secretive marshbirds. In this study, we evaluate how seasonal movements of King and Clapper Rails and Purple and Common Gallinules are affected by hydrologic variability and habitat structure in coastal Louisiana. Understanding how birds use a dynamic and degrading landscape is important to help design restoration projects. The information gained from this study will provide insights into where restoration should occur and the target elevations of restored sites. The Louisiana Technical Implementation Group (LATIG) funded the study through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. This study will help determine the design and location of coastal restoration projects designed to benefit secretive marsh birds. The broader project has already been integrated into the Avian Guidance Document which was developed to guide restoration in coastal Louisiana. Water levels can have a significant effect on waterbird movements. However, little is known about how water levels influence movements of secretive marshibrds. In this study, we are using satellite telemetry to determine habitat use and movements of King Rails, Clapper Rails, Common Gallinules and Purple Gallinules.