SELECTION OF SONG PERCHES BY CERULEAN WARBLER S

Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea) populations have experienced serious declines i n recent decades . Due to limited research on this species, a better understanding of habitat use and territor y site selection at the regional level its needed . Within the Pleasant Run Unit of the Hoosier National Forest , Morgan-Monroe State Forest, and Yellowwood State Forest, a total of 43 Cerulean Warbler territorie s were mapped during2004 and 2005 . Within each territory, crown height, diameter at breast height (dbh) , and species were recorded for trees used as song perches . Dbh, height measurements, and species wer e also recorded for trees within a0.04 ha circle at the center of each territory . Cerulean Warbler song-perc h trees were larger and taller than surrounding trees within territories . In addition, certain species were selected as song-perch trees, whereas others were avoided .