Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus)

WHA planning objectives

Maintain breeding habitat throughout the range of the species.

Wildlife habitat area

Establish a WHA (~10-15 ha) within meadows occupied by at least one breeding pair.

GWM management objectives

Prevent destruction of nests and nest abandonment.

Maintain dense clumps of grass used for nesting and hiding.

General wildlife measures

These measures must be applied within a WHA approved for the species. Range Do not mow hayfields during the breeding season. Generally, the breeding season extends from April through August; however, consult MELP for site-specific times. Mowing in autumn is preferable. Avoid grazing during the breeding season by providing alternate water, forage and salt licks. If there is no other practicable option to avoid grazing, fencing may be required. Consult MELP for fencing arrangements. Avoid the use of pesticides. Spot treatments with herbicides may be used in exceptional circumstances (e.g., noxious weeds) where it can be demonstrated that the herbicide will not be harmful to the species or habitat being managed.

Management considerations (not mandatory)

Pesticide spraying should be limited in areas immediately adjacent to WHAs in order to maintain food sources and reduce likelihood of secondary impacts.

Cross references

Long-billed curlew

Grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum)

WHA planning objectives

Provide suitable nesting habitat.

Wildlife habitat area

Establish WHAs on known breeding sites and areas with high breeding capability. WHAs should be 10-15 ha to allow several pairs to establish territories.

GWM management objectives

Prevent destruction of nests and nest abandonment.

Maintain dense clumps of grass used for nesting and hiding.

General wildlife measures

These measures must be applied within a WHA approved for the species. Range Do not mow hayfields during the breeding season. Generally the breeding season extends from April through August; however, consult MELP for site-specific times. Mowing in autumn is preferable. Avoid grazing during the breeding season by providing alternate water, forage and salt licks. If there is no other practicable option to avoid grazing, fencing may be required. Consult MELP for fencing arrangements. Plan grazing for autumn in order to avoid disturbance and damage to nests. Only light grazing should occur. Avoid the use of pesticides. Spot treatments with herbicides may be used in exceptional circumstances (e.g., noxious weeds) where it can be demonstrated that the herbicide will not be harmful to the species or habitat being managed.

Landscape unit planning considerations (not mandatory)

Maintain a variety of seral stages in rangeland communities.

Cross references

Racer, night snake, gopher snake, long-billed curlew