• DeWeese, Lawrence R.
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  
• Henny, Charles J.
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  
• Floyd, Randy L.
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  
• Bobal, Kathie A.
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  
• Schultz, Albert W.
  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  

Breeding density, food, nesting success, and mortality of 20 bird species were monitored at Beaverhead National Forest, Montana, in 1975 in conjunction with experimental applications of trichlorfon (Dylox) and carbaryl (Sevin-4-Oil) to western budworms (Choristonuera occidentalis). Bird species on nine 350- to 550-ha forested plots (three controls and three treated with each pesticide) were studied before and for 14 days after the spraying of trichlorfon at 1.1 kg in 9.4 L of diesal oil per ha (1 pound active ingredient in 0.5 gallon/acre).

No significant decrease in bird numbers was detected from breeding pair estimates or live bird counts after the spraying. Of the breeding pairs present before spraying. 92% remained on control plots, 89% on trichlorfon pots, and 92% on carbaryl plots. Counts of live birds made before and after spraying in three types of habitat supported the results of the breeding-pair estimates. Nests with eggs or with young at the time of spraying were 74 and 97% successful, respectively, in control plots, 83 and 100% in plots sprayed with trichlorfon, and 86 and 100% in plots sprayed with carbaryl. No sick or dead birds were found after the spraying, although budworms were found in bird stomachs, and tracer-dye from the pesticide occurred on the feathers or feet of 74% of the 202 birds collected. Species dwelling in the tree canopy encountered the dye (and thus the pesticide) at a slightly higher rate (80%) than did species below the treetops (71%) or near the ground and in open areas (70%).