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

While avoidance of anthropogenic vertical structures by lesser prairie-chickens (Tympanuchus pallidicintus, LEPC) has been shown, the ultimate cause of this avoidance is unknown. An increased risk of predation due to raptors perching on these structures has been hypothesized as a reason for avoidance and even as a contributing factor in the observed decline of the species. I evaluated the effects of vertical structures at lek sites where LEPCs are seemingly very exposed and vulnerable, conducted raptor surveys throughout the study area to assess the raptor community throughout the year, and monitored nesting Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) prey deliveries for LEPC presence. In addition, I studied sexual selection and the reproductive behavior of LEPCs at leks to gain a better understanding of the life history of the species.