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Implementation of environmental education programs in nature reserve areas in southwestern China faces challenges because of a highly exam-oriented educational system and financial constraints. We examined a relatively successful case at the Caohai Nature Reserve in Guizhou by analyzing its development from 1993 to 2014. Results suggest that long-term local social capital constructions have contributed to the strongly cooperative relationship among international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), nature reserve staff, farmers, and local schools. Relationships of trust have created a positive atmosphere for environmental education development in later stages. Reflecting on the current implementation, we identify five future goals.

Introduction Good afternoon. My name is Corinne Conner. I am a Fish and Wildlife Service biologist in Austin, Texas. I am also a joint owner and manager of Bee Cave [...]

Low-nest survival rates are linked to predators, though other factors are important, such as habitat and prey resources. Artifical nests on Conservation Reserve Program sites in Texas have been studied to assess the impact of prey supplementation, time, and vegetation density on nest survival. Prey supplementation had the biggest impact, though available nesting cover is also important, as is shown by the greater success of earlier nesting. The economic and logistical costs of prey supplementation should be assessed, as well as the impact of populations of predators.

We examined the significance of arroyo-riparian habitat to birds in the Chihuahuan Desert of south-central New Mexico. Nests (N = 620) of 27 species were monitored during 1993-1995. Twenty-three species nested in arroyos and 20 species nested in uplands. Northern Mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos), Rock Wrens (Salpinctes obsoletus), and Verdins (Auriparus flaviceps) nested most frequently in arroyos. Black-throated Sparrows (Amphispiza bilineata), Northern Mockingbirds, and Scott's Orioles (Icterus parisorum) nested most frequently in uplands. Nest density in arroyos was more than twice that of uplands (0.64 nests/ha versus 0.27 nests/ha). Nest success and predation rates did not differ between arroyos and uplands for Black-throated Sparrows, Northern Mockingbirds, and Crissal Thrashers (Toxostoma crissale). Nest predation was the primary cause of mortality to eggs and nestlings in both habitats. Torrey yucca (Yucca torreyi), javelina bush (Condalia warnockii), and little-leaf sumac (Rhus microphylla) were the most frequently used nest substrates, even though these shrubs were among the lowest in density. Maintaining this habitat and protecting sparse shrub species used as nest substrates may have long term importance in managing Chihuahuan Desert bird communities., Populations of some Neotropical migrants have declined over the last 20-30 years (Finch 1991). A significant reason for these declines is thought to be caused by loss of habitat on [...]

The blue-gray gnatcatcher, 'Polioptila caerulea,' deserts its nest in response to parasitism by the brown-headed cowbird, 'Molothrus ater.' Nest desertion seems to be an effective strategy to avoid parasitism and increase fitness. Deserting gnatcatchers usually obtain clutches free from cowbird disturbance. However, nest desertion response was inconsistent and the factor that triggers it is unclear.

Editor's Note The UPDATE presents a three-part series of educational essays from Nancy Mathews' Wildlife Ecology class at the University of Wisconsin. We are presenting a selection of position papers [...]

Editor's Note The UPDATE presents a three-part series of educational essays from Nancy Mathews' Wildlife Ecology class at the University of Wisconsin. We are presenting a selection of position papers [...]

Intraspecific cooperative nesting does not happen ordinarily in the bird kingdom. However, it is well-documented in the Acorn Woodpecker and Common Moorhen. This happens when more than two birds from the same species participate in the natal care of the young. Observed interspecific cooperative nesting between Barn Swallows and a Say's Phoebe is documented in New Mexico.