Abstract
Red-cockaded woodpecker (
Picoides borealis) colonies on the Angelina National Forest were monitored from 1984 to 1986, after hardwoods on the site had been injected with the herbicide 2,4-D. The herbicide effectively reduced the hardwood midstory; however, possible toxicity to woodpeckers and cavity tree mortality are problems associated with the use of 2,4-D. Because of its lower toxicity to pines, the herbicide hexazinone is suggested as an alternative to 2,4-D. Use of any herbicide is suggested only as a one-time application to eliminate large hardwoods so that prescribed fire can later be used to control hardwoods in woodpecker colonies.
Keywords
red-cockaded woodpecker,
Picoides borealis,
herbicide,
hardwoods
Citation
Conner, Richard N. 1989. Injection of 2,4-D to remove hardwood midstory within red-cockaded woodpecker colony areas. Res. Pap. SO-251. New Orleans, LA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 4 p.