ABSTRACT: Chuck-will's-widows are a declining crepuscular nightjar that breeds across eastern North America. They are among the largest nightjars, primarily sustaining themselves on insects. Despite their overall decline, their presence at Fort Cavazos during breeding seasons appears consistent and widespread. However, limited research has been conducted on this species at Fort Cavazos, prompting an investigation into their distribution and habitat preferences. To address this gap, fieldwork has been undertaken utilizing various methodologies. Point counts, microhabitat measurements, and GIS LiDAR technology have been used to find the reasons behind their presence at Fort Cavazos. Despite the base being subject to constant disturbance, fragmentation, and localized droughts, Chuck-will's-widows persist in the area, suggesting potential habitat suitability amidst challenging conditions. Data collected from two field seasons (Spring 2023 and 2024) along with four years of point count data (Spring 2021-2024) will be analyzed to discern patterns in their distribution and habitat preferences. Additionally, insect availability in the habitat of Chuck-will's-widow is being assessed through insect traps, aiming to correlate their presence with specific insect populations. By examining habitat characteristics, insect availability, and the species' distribution patterns, this research seeks to determine whether Chuck-will's-widows exhibit preferences for particular habitats or specific insect prey. An analysis of CWWI diet is also being conducted through metabarcoding fecal samples to be able to compare insect availability with chosen prey. Such insights are critical for understanding the factors influencing their presence at Fort Cavazos and for informing conservation strategies to mitigate the decline of this species in other areas.
