Question

Why is it important to study grouse habitat selection and demography relative to human land use practices?

Answer 1

Grouse species have evolved living in environments with little vertical structure and in areas with minimum human activity (from roads and cultivation to other more complex infrastructure). In the recent decades, there has been a significant increase in wind energy development in diverse areas and ecosystems. This development involves construction and placement of tall man-made structures, such as wind turbines and other infrastructure in habitats with high wind capacity. These habitats are often occupied by grouse species. This coexistence could severely endanger the species survivorship and reproductive ability. It is very important to study grouse habitat selection and demography, so that appropriate regulatory guidelines can be applied to wind energy development.