Habitat Management for Hole-Nesting Birds in Forests of Western Larch and Douglas-fir

Abstract

During a 3-year study in western larch (Larix occidentalis)-Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) forests of northwestern Montana, 273 active nest trees of 20 hole-nesting bird species were located. Stands with major components of old-growth western lurch, ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), or black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) supported the highest density and diversity of hole-nesters. On commercial forests, managers should maintain units of old growth and prepare silvicultural prescriptions that will provide continuing replacement in the future.