14.7.3 Burning
Controlled (prescribed) burning can be used to restore and maintain bird assem-
blages associated with fire-dependent forest types, particularly open forests
dominated by fire-tolerant species of pine or oak (Figure 14.6). Fires which do not
reach the forest canopy (ground fires) remove only the field layer, shrubs, and
saplings. This simplifies the structure and opens the canopy. Fires which do reach
the canopy (crown fires) also kill many mature trees, and can thereby alter tree
species composition and forest structure. Crown fires usually occur only when
fuel loads are exceptionally high after a period when fires have been artificially
suppressed. Fire can also stimulate germination of certain forest tree species, and
thereby influences tree species composition.
348 |Habitat management
Fig. 14.6Burning may seem catastrophic to birds and other wildlife. However, many
vegetation types are dependent on periodic fires and suppression of fires by people
has resulted in the degradation or loss of these habitats and their associated birds.
One example is the fire-dependent scrub of Florida that is the sole habitat of the
Florida Scrub Jay Aphelocoma coerulescens. (William J. Sutherland)