Territory size of the Florida Scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) at Savannas Preserve State Park

Author

• Theresa E. Smith

Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Submission Date

October 2026

Abstract

The Florida Scrub-jay is the only bird endemic to the state of Florida, and is entirely restricted to pyrogenic xeric oak scrublands. The species is listed as Threatened, and all populations throughout the state are in decline. The major causes of decline are habitat modification due to development and fire suppression. Preservation and proper fire management is crucial for the continued survival of the species. The territories of three families of Florida Scrub-jays at Savannas Preserve State Park were delineated, and the area calculated using 100% MVCP analysis and compared to work previously published by Cowan (2005). The results of this study show that Savannas Preserve State Park oak scrub habitat is deteriorating, but that aggressive fire management can restore the scrub to optimal Florida Scrub-jay habitat.

Comments

by Theresa E. Smith.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Theresa E., "Territory size of the Florida Scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) at Savannas Preserve State Park" (2007). Harriet L Wilkes Honors College Theses 2003 - 2009. 59.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_honors_1/59

Extent

vi, 31 leaves : ill. (some col.).

Identifier

314402288