Electric Fence Predator Exclosure to Enhance Duck Nesting: A Long-Term Case Study in Iowa

We evaluated duck nest success and numbers from 1978-1990 on Ventura Marsh Wildlife Management Area in north-central Iowa. This study was unique because of its longevity and the diverse predator community present. In response to high levels of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and blue-winged teal (Anas...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Wildlife Society bulletin 1995-07, Vol.23 (2), p.261-266
Main Authors: LaGrange, Theodore G., Hansen, James L., Andrews, Ronald D., Hancock, Alan W., Kienzler, James M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animal nesting
Birds
Case Studies
Ducks
Electric fences
Fences
Hens
Prairies
Predation
Predators
Wetlands
Wildlife conservation
Wildlife management
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Summary:We evaluated duck nest success and numbers from 1978-1990 on Ventura Marsh Wildlife Management Area in north-central Iowa. This study was unique because of its longevity and the diverse predator community present. In response to high levels of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and blue-winged teal (Anas discors) nest predation by primarily striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and raccoons (Procyon lotor), we erected a smooth-wire electric fence predator exclosure in 1983. Prior to the 1986 nesting season, we added a poultry-netting barrier, new energizer, and solar battery charger. Nest success was greater inside the exclosure than outside the exclosure for mallards (39% vs. 14%), blue-winged teal (30% vs. 14%), and ducks total (32% vs. 13%). These success rates were comparable to other portions of the prairie pothole region. Nest success varied greatly among years. We attributed low nest success inside the exclosure to general annual variation, fence design failures, and increasing nest predation mainly by ermine (Mustela erminea) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), which were not excluded by our fence design. Exclosure design and site selection are critical to a successful exclosure. Potential egg and hen predators need to be continually monitored and managed.
ISSN:0091-7648
1938-5463