Nest-Site Characteristics of the Blue-Eared Pheasant in Northwest China (Report‪)‬

Byline: Wu Yi-qun and Liu Naifa - Email: wuyq-05@163.com Abstract From 2007 to 2008 we studied the nest-site characteristics of Blue-eared Pheasants (Crossoptilon auritum) in northwest China. Of 12 nests found, four (33.3%) were located under conifers, four (33.3%) in rock and cave sites, two (16.7%) under fallen trees, and two (16.7%) in thick shrubs. The degree of concealment was highest from the rear of nests (90.8%), followed by the top, left, right, and front. We also assessed 13 habitat variables at nest sites (n=12) and control sites (n=24). Nest-sites on southeast, south and west slopes were selected as nest-sites with higher slope positions and steeper slope gradients. Stepwise discriminate analysis indicated that the Blue-eared Pheasant selected to nest in habitats with higher vegetation cover at heights of 1 m and 2 m, lighter disturbance and higher slope position.