First Advisor

Catherine de Rivera

Date of Award

Spring 6-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology and University Honors

Department

Biology

Language

English

Subjects

birds, urban ecology, recreation, urban parks, greenspaces

DOI

10.15760/honors.1684

Abstract

Recreational activity in natural areas can disrupt songbird singing during critical learning or courtship periods, increasing the risk of fitness and population declines in sensitive species. Local data on birdsong disturbance caused by recreation can guide management efforts protecting wildlife, such as signage, leash laws, and dog walking bans. This study assessed bird vocalization responses to groups with and without dogs in urban greenspaces. Surveys were conducted in Fall 2024 at three parks in Portland, Oregon, with varying rates of dog and human presence. Throughout two-hour observation periods, bird vocalization activity of seven songbirds was recorded at five-minute intervals and as recreational user groups crossed a 29 m trail segment. Dog presence was associated with the highest singing cessation and least chips/calls across all species. Species other than Song Sparrows were least likely to sing with dogs present; Song Sparrows followed this trend at a park with minimal dog activity, but sang more when groups had dogs at the park with the highest dog activity, suggesting habituation to frequent encounters. Birds vocalize less in the presence of recreational groups, and dogs, in particular, can intensify this response in some species. Reduced birdsong and increased singing cessation associated with dog walking indicate a continued need for leash-only or dog-restricted urban parks.

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Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/43783

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