We examined nests of the endangered Florida Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammod
ramus savannarum floridanus) on the U.S. Air Force Avon Park Range, Hi
ghlands County, Florida. Nests (n = 20) were located on the ground in
shallow (less than or equal to 3.2 cm) excavations in the sand substra
te. All were domed (>50% of the cup covered) and made of grass and gra
ss-like monocots. Most (75%) were shielded by a low (<29.5 cm) growth
of dwarf live oak (Quercus minima). Nest opening directions were rando
mly oriented (P > 0.05). Vegetation density was significantly lower in
the nest opening quadrant than in other quad rants (P = 0.003). An ex
posed area at the nest opening would facilitate access and make predat
or distraction displays more visible.