To characterize western sage grouse (Cenkocercus urophusiunus phubs Bonaparte) nesting habitat in sagebrush-steppe habitat in Washington, we iuitiated a study on the Yakima Trahdng Center to determine nesting habitat characteristics and whether these characteristics diiered between successful and depredated nests. Most nests (71%) were in big sagebrush (Artemesia trkfenfafu Nutt.)/bunchgrass communities. Nest habitat was characterized by greater shrub cover, shrub height, vertical cover height, residual cover, and litter than at random locations. Successful 1-m' nest sites within big sagebrush/bunchgrass iu 1992 bad less shrub cover (51%) and shrub height (64 cm) than depredated nest sites (70% and 90 cm, respectively). Successful 77-m' nest areas in big sagebrush/bunchgrass in 1993 had more tall grass (2 18 cm) than depredated nest areas. Management that protects the big sagebrush/bun&grass community is essential for maintain@ nesting habitat for sage grouse.

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