Joseph et al. ,found that mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) preferred mid-seral pastures that were moderately grazed by cattle (Bos taurus) compared to heavily grazed, early-seral pastures. Mid-seral pastures had more food and cover than the early-seral pastures. Leatherleaf croton (Croton pottsii), an important mourning dove food, was abundant on late-seral and mid-seral pastures, but nearly absent on early-seral pastures. Joseph et al. suggest that heavy grazing negatively effects mourning dove populations through depletion of leatherleaf croton. The combination of perennial grasses and bare ground on mid-seral pastures also favors mourning doves. The study area's grazing history and resulting ecological condition have influenced mourning dove forage and cover needs.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.