Publication Date
2026
College
College of Natural Resources & Sciences
Department
Wildlife
Document Type
Poster
Description
This project examined how human disturbance influences the foraging behavior of Great Egrets (Ardea alba) in tidal wetlands near Humboldt Bay, California. Observations were conducted at Butcher’s Slough and Elk River Slough during low tides when egrets actively forage. Strike rates were recorded under different disturbance conditions, including the presence of pedestrians and people with dogs near the birds. Results showed that pedestrian activity did not reduce foraging efficiency and, in some cases, was associated with higher strike rates, while dogs had no significant effect. Findings suggest that Great Egrets in frequently visited wetlands may be habituated to regular human activity, informing wetland management and conservation planning.