Effects of Clear-Cutting and Debris Removal on Ruffed Grouse Activity in an Experimental Right-of-Way

G. Jean Doucet, Ross MacCulloch, and J. Roger Bider

Logging operation clear-cuts and utility rights-of-way are plentiful in many parts of ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) range. The effects of such clearings on regional populations could be important in grouse management. Limited information is available concerning effects of the original clear-cutting of a right-of-way on ruffed grouse. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of the original clear-cutting and debris removal in a 20 m wide experimental right-of-way on the activity and habitat utilization of ruffed grouse. Grouse activity was recorded using the sand transect technique. Data collected before (1971, 1972) and after (1973, 1974) the clearing were used to determine the change in grouse activity in cleared versus forested areas. In 1973, no grouse activity was recorded in the study area. In 1974, summer grouse activity was much higher in the experimental right-of-way compared to the control area. It is difficult to determine if food or cover was responsible for the increase in activity recorded in the cleared area in 1974.

Keywords: Activity, Bonasa umbellus, clear-cut, right-of-way, ruffed grouse, sand transect