Long-term effects of woody vegetation management on seasonal body condition of northern bobwhites

Abstract

We investigated effects of season and brush management on body condition of northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) in the Cross Timbers ecosystem of central Oklahoma. Quail were collected seasonally and body condition assessed by necropsy and analysis of percent fat, protein, and ash in the carcass. Brush management by herbicide, herbicide + fire, and mechanical removal had minimal long-term effects on body condition. However, we found significant seasonal differences in weights of the gizzard, gizzard fat, liver, and lipid reserves (body and gizzard fat). With respect to condition, we concluded that northern bobwhites derived no long-term benefits from brush management programs in the Cross Timbers ecosystem of central Oklahoma.