Herkert et al. examined the effects of different grassland management techniques on nesting habitat of northern harriers and short-eared owls in southeastern Illinois. The study was conducted on two separate grassland sanctuaries where three different mowing techniques were used: rotational mowing, an annual activity practiced on 31% of the grassland sanctuaries, mowing for hay, from late June to early July covered less than 9%, and mowing for seed harvest, late July, involved 16% of the study area. Northern harriers selected areas of undisturbed native grassland with plant heights of 55 cm or greater and where litter exceeded 12% cover. Short-eared owls preferred areas of shorter vegetation (<50 cm). This combination of vegetative structure was found only in one of the study areas. In order to create a mosaic habitat that would suit both raptor species, Herkert et al. suggest pasture management to focus on rotational grazing or burning. This management may not only enhance raptor habitat but many other grassland bird species, as well the rodent community, the main prey of northern harriers and short-eared owls.
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