We used LiDAR‐derived estimates of forest structure and topographical features to evaluate selection of areas by hens during incubation on a site in South Carolina. LiDAR stands for light detection and ranging and is a method by which one can quantify vegetative structure in forests. We found that hens took breaks from incubation, termed recesses, to visit pine stands with a basal area of about 60 ft2 per acre, which is an open pine stand that’s been thinned. Our findings demonstrate the importance of maintaining pine forests with understory vegetation that provides foraging opportunities for hens during incubation.
