Nest predation in forest tracks and the decline of migratory songbirds.

Artificial nests with fresh quail eggs were placed in forests of different sizes in Maryland and Tennessee. Predation rates were higher in small woodlots than in large tracts. Predation was especially intense in woodlots near suburban neighborhoods compared to woodlots in isolated rural areas. Open-cup nests were more vulnerable to predators when placed on the ground vs. 1-2 m above ground. In either position these open-cup nests were more vulnerable to predators than cavity nests.-from Author