Progress 10/01/09 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Target Audience: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Michigan Department of Natural Resources Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Training and professional development were important aspects of this project. Since its inception in 2009, 2 MS theses and 1 PhD dissertation have been completed. Additionally, 2 PhD dissertations are close to completion and 1 MS thesis research was initiated summer 2014. These graduate students were trained in field methods and analytical approaches as well as in supervisory skills. All individuals presented multiple public summaries of their research, interacted with citizens in the field and gained significant skills communicating with state and federal agency administrators and biologists. They also had a major role in proposal development and budget management. Undergraduates Approximately 20 undergraduates worked on various aspects of the two projects from 2009-2014 and received field monitoring and data collection training. Finally, 2 professionals were employed on these projects and were supported to travel to meetings, present at conferences and in database management. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been disseminated through scientific publications (17), agency reports (6 piping plover; 8 colonial waterbirds) and 31 public lectures. Additionally, we held 12 training sessions for agency/stakeholder plover monitors and 12 pre and post season workshops for plover recovery participants (monitors and supervisors). Ten presentations were given to non-scientific citizen conservation groups or school children. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
A major region of importance to nesting waterbirds on the North American continent is the Great Lakes. In this ecosystem, waterbirds are a significant biological resource and information on their distribution and abundance is essential for implementing effective conservation and management and for studying ecosystem change. This group of birds is greatly influenced by human activities in the Great Lakes basin, both positively and negatively. Evaluation of their status and detection of population trends is a high priority for federal and state agencies. The purpose of this research is to study colonial waterbird colony distribution and abundance and identify trends and conservation requirements. Additionally, the research also focused on information needed to promote conservation and recovery of the endangerd Great Lakes piping plover. Data for the colonial waterbird project were obtained from the 4th Binational Colonial Waterbird Census and several other smaller census efforts. Piping plover data for survival analyses were obtained through annual monitoring and contributed to a database maintained since 1993. The waterbird census documented approximately 400,000 pairs of 14 species of colonial waterbirds nesting at 310 sites in the U.S. Great Lakes which represented an 11% increase in overall population numbers and a 24% decrease in number of sites since the 1990s. A priority site census method was developed and tested and results demonstrate this sub-sampling approach has the same accuracy as a complete census but is potentially more cost effective and should be used for future colonial waterbird census efforts in the Great Lakes. Piping plover recovery monitoring documented an increase in number of nesting pairs from 60 in 2010 to 70 in 2014, indicating a positive trend towards recovery of this endangered population. Chick survival is influenced by temperature, precipation, age of chicks and the local predator community. Therefore, management stragegies that reduce disturbance to plovers during the first 10 days after hatching may increase the number of young that survive to independence. Project Goals: Part A: Waterbird Colony Distribution, Abundance and Conservation 1. Esimtate regional population size, breeding colony size and location of colonial waterbirds in the U.S. portion of the Great Lakes ecosystem. a) Major activities completed / experiments conducted: We conducted the 4th Binational Great Lakes Colonial Waterbird Census by visiting colony sites and counting nests directly or through aerial photographs obtained by flying over selected colonies. b) Data collected: Location of colonial waterbird colony sites within U.S. waters of the Great Lakes and connecting waterways and estimates of breeding pairs (active nests) at each site for all species recorded. c) Summary statistics and discussion of results: We recorded 413,000 pairs of colonial waterbirds nesting in the U.S. Great Lakes and representing 14 species. Birds were nesting at 310 locations. The overall population size increased by 11% from the census in the 1990s but number of nesting sites declined by 24%. The colonial waterbird breeding community is dominated by three species: ring-billed gull, herring gull and double-crested cormorant. d) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized. The colonial waterbird breeding population increased by 11% between the 1990s and 2000s but number of nesting sites decline by 24%. The 14 species community is dominated by three species. 2. Determine and apply habitat based detection rates for species at selected sites. a) Major activities completed / experiments conducted: detection studies estimate how well a census has achieved detection of all nests in a sample; we used a double observer approach to estimate detection probability and abundance for 5 species of colonial waterbirds. b) Data collected; number of nests found by the first observer and number of nests the first observer missed. c) Summary statistics and discussion of results: Ground nesting cormorant had the highest (98%) detection and herring gulls had the lowest (52%). The differences in detection were related to vegetative cover and openness of the habitat. d) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: Detection can be significantly increased if a) census technicians mark all nests as they are counted and b) if census technicians recognize they need to expend greater effort at colonies where birds are nesting in complext vegetation. 3. Compare results of this census to previous similar efforts and discuss changes. See objective 1c above. 4. Establish protocol for periodic monitoring of sites deemed important for conservation. a) Major activities completed / experiments conducted: We develop a protocol to sub-sample the Great Lakes colonial waterbird colonies by identifying the sites that contain the most nesting pairs yet represent the broadest range of species. Then we tested the accuracy and efficiency of this method focusing on 102 priority sites where nesting pair estimates were obtained during on the ground counts or from aerial surveys. b) Data collected; Estimates of nesting pairs (active nests) for all species at each of 102 sites. c) Summary statistics and discussion of results: this method captured from 75% (herring gulls) to 100% (American white pelican) of each species in nesting in the Great Lakes region and trend results were similar when compared to complete census results. d) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: the priority census method produces trend estimates similar to those obtained using a complete census; growth rates were very similar. Therefore, we recommend sub-sampling be used for future census efforts to reduce cost and time to completion. Additionally, these reductions should allow for more frequent census efforts which will increase trend detection accuracy. Part B: Piping Plover Recovery 1. Continue long term monitoring and population demographic studies. a) Major activities completed / experiments conducted: All known nesting sites of piping plovers were visited and monitored on a daily basis during the project period to obtain data for this objective. b) Data collected: identity of nesting pairs; GPS locations of nests; dates of egg laying, hatching and fledging; estimates of fledging success. c) Summary statistics and discussion of results: d) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: 2. Identify breeding habitat with below average productivity. a) Major activities completed / experiments conducted: all nesting sites of piping plovers in the Great Lakes region were monitored to evaluate productivity of nesting pairs. b) Data collected: number of eggs laid, eggs hatched and chicks fledged as well as daily temperature, precipitation and evidence of predation. c) Summary statistics and discussion of results: fledging success is highest during hot, dry summers; periods of cold and rain increase chick mortality. Chick mortality is also highest during the first 10 days after hatching. d) Key outcomes or other accomplishments realized: monitoring of nest sites is especially critical during the first 10 days of chick life. If predators can be excluded/discouraged and if disturbance is minimized during inclement weather, survival will be higher. Survival is also influenced by the predator community at each site which varies within and between years as well as among sites. 3. Use data from 17 year database to understand patterns of egg survival from laying through hatching. See Objective 2a-d above.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Saunders, S.P. and F.J. Cuthbert. 2014. Genetic and environmental influences on fitness related traits in an endangered shorebird population. Biological Conservation 177: 26-34.
Claassen, A., T. Arnold, S. Saunders, E. Roche, and F.J. Cuthbert. 2014. Factors influencing nest survival and renesting by Piping Plovers in the Great Lakes region. Condor 116: 394-407.
Saunders, S., T. Arnold, E. Roche and F. Cuthbert. 2014. Age-specific survival and recruitment of piping plovers in the Great Lakes region. J. of Avian Biology 45: 437-449.
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Progress 01/01/13 to 09/30/13
Outputs
Target Audience: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Michigan Department of Natural Resources Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Training was provided on Part A (Waterbird colony distribution, abundance and conservation) for 1 research technician who was instructed in taking photographs from an aircraft and using Arc Map to count nesting birds from the photos. Professional development in the form of conference attendance was provided for 1 research associate and 1 graduate student on this project who both attended and presented papers at one professional meeting in 2013. Training was provided on Part B (Piping Plover recovery) for 1 graduate student and 5 research tecnicians on bird handling and capture, habitat protection and data management. Professional developed in the form of conference attendance was provided to 1 graduate student who presented a poster at two professional meetings in 2013. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? A final grant report on priority waterbird site identification was completed and submitted to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service via email. Additionally, population estimates of Double-crested Cormorants were reported orally at a regional meeting of the Great Lakes Cormorant Working Group in East Lansing, Michigan in March 2013. A progress report was presented orally at the Waterbird Society annual meeting in September 2013. An annual report on breeding season research and protection of Piping Plovers was submitted via email to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. Two Piping Plover meetings were held in Michigan (April and August) to report on research plans and results. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Research in 2014 for Part A will include the following; I will: 1) conclude a study on the Great Lakes Common Tern project which focuses on identifying active colony sites, estimating productivity and breeding pair number, identifying factors causing colony failure, advising agencies on needed management/conservation efforts and sharing information with multiple cooperators in 6 states and 1 Canadian province. 2) work with a graduate student to conclude a regional study on Black Tern habitat use, current and historical, to provide or refine recommendations for habitat management/restoration for this species. 3) work with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to develop plans and funding for a 2015 priority waterbird colony site survey to test the protocol we developed in 2013. 4) work with cooperators to initiate and complete a 2014 biennial survey of breeding Double-crested Cormorants to continue to track cormorant population response to management in the Great Lakes region. 5) initiate a new project funded by LCCMR (Legislative and Citizen Committee on Minnesota Resources) to census breeding pairs of American White Pelicans in MN and estimate breeding productivity at selected colony sites in the state. For part B (Piping Plover recovery), I will continue pursuing the goals identified above as this is an on going effort. Funding has been secured for this work from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Accomplishments for the waterbird inventory in 2013 included finalizing a report on sub-sampling protocol designed to provide population estimates at a reduced cost, greater frequency and of similar accuracy as the current method of a census each decade. Results were compared to previous similar efforts by my lab to estimate population trends. Additionally, I continued research to estimate regional population size, breeding colony size and location of Common Terns in the Great Lakes and initiated a new project to evaluate historic and current habitat use by Black Terns in the Great Lakes region. Habitat based detection rates were obtained several years ago. Activities for the piping plover recovery project included data collection on number of nesting pairs, habitat use and estimates of reproductive success which were used in two publications on demographics of this population. I continued to collect data on breeding habitat with below average productivity to plan management strategies and am analyzing data on egg survival to identify factors responsible for egg mortality.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2013
Citation:
Saunders, S.P. T.W.Y.Ong, and F.J. Cuthbert. 2013. Auditory and visual threat recognition in captive-reared Great Lakes Piping Plovers. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 144: 153-162.
Brudney, L.J., T.W. Arnold, S.P. Saunders and F.J. Cuthbert. 2013. Survival of Piping Plovers (Charadrius melodus) chicks in the Great Lakes region. The Auk 130:150-160.
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Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This project has the following goals: 1) inventory Great Lakes colonial waterbirds and use data to better inform management and conservation decisions and 2) conduct research directed at recovery of the federally endangered Great Lakes population of the piping plover. Activities for the waterbird inventory in 2012 included testing of a sub-sampling method designed to provide population estimates at a reduced cost, greater frequency and of similar accuracy as the current method of a census each decade. Activities for the piping plover recovery project included data collection on number of nesting pairs, habitat use and estimates of reproductive success. These data were summarized in an annual report. Events: For the colonial waterbird project, no events were held. For the piping plover effort, two sessions were held in Michigan (Empire and St. Ignace) with the goal of training field assistants to conduct plover research across the breeding range. No services were provided for the project. Products for the waterbird project included a progress report to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; the product for the plover component was an annual report which was prepared for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and stakeholders summarizing results from the 2012 breeding season. The plover annual report was distributed to partners in the Great Lakes region via email. The purpose of the plover report was to inform managers of the status of the population in 2012 PARTICIPANTS: Two primary people participated in the waterbird research project including Linda Wires (Research Associate)and Megan Girsch (aerial photo counter). Both received training and professional development while working on the project. People who worked on the piping plover study included Sarah Saunders (field assistant; field supervisor); Alice Van Zoeren (field assistant; winter data base manager); Charles Smith (field assistant; data collector in field; bander; boat operator); David Spencer (field assistant; data collector in field); Melissa Breyer (field assistant; data collector; banding assistant) and Kelly Duhn (data collector in the field). Individuals who received training in 2012 included David Spencer, Melissa Breyer and Kelly Duhn. Collaborators included Steve Lewis (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), field staff from many natural resource agencies in the Great Lakes region, the University of Michigan Biological Station and Vince Cavelleri (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for both projects is U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The waterbird sub-sampling or priority research is not complete but several important results have already been identified. First, we were able to successfully obtain data for approximately 70 waterbird nesting sites using cooperators throughout the Great Lakes region. The data we have analyzed demonstrate that it is possible to calculate population trends from the sub-sample that are similar to trends obtained from a total census. The sub-sampling effort will likely be adopted by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the outcome of increasing data points needed to identify waterbird population trends. This method is less expensive and time consuming than the complete census approach that has been conducted each decade since the mid 1970s. Outcomes for the piping plover research include verification that the plover populations have quite distinct winter ranges with some overlap and that plover chicks appear to have an innate response to predators as demonstrated by chicks raised in captivity. Winter distribution results were used by USFWS to prepare a range wide conservation and management plan for this species in North America.
Publications
- Saunders, S., T. Arnold, E. Roche, F.J. Cuthbert. 2012. Female site familiarity increases fledging success in piping plovers. Auk 129:329-327. Gratto-Trevor, C., D. Amirault-Langlais, D.Catlin, F. Cuthbert, J. Fraser, S. Maddock, E. Roche and F. Shaffer. 2012. Connectivity in piping plovers: Do breeding populations have distinct winter distributions J. Wildlife Mgt. 79: 348-355.
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Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Goals for this project include: 1) inventory Great Lakes colonial waterbirds and use data to better inform management and conservation decisions and 2) conduct research directed at recovery (delisting) of the federally endangered Great Lakes population of the piping plover. Activities for the waterbird inventory in 2011 included completion of the final report (submitted to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) on the 4th Great Lakes Colonial Waterbird Survey in the U.S. Great Lakes. Activities for the piping plover recovery effort included data collection on number of nesting pairs, habitat use and estimates of reproductive success. These data were summarized for an annual report. Events: For the colonial waterbird component, no events were held. For the plover project, two sessions were held in Michigan (Empire, MI and St. Ignace, MI) to train field assistants for the plover project throughout the breeding range. Participants were trained on data collection and reporting. No services were provided for the project. Products for the colonial waterbird component included a final report on the results of the U.S. Great Lakes Colonial Waterbird Census and a database for four census periods. For the plover component, an annual report was prepared for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and stakholders summarizing results from the 2011 breeding season. The final report of the waterbird work over the past 4 years was circulated to reviewers by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and will be made public on a USFWS website in the Office of Migratory Birds when USFWS has formatting established. Investigators will be able to request access. The plover annual report was distributed to partners throughout the Great Lakes region via email (electronic copy only). The purpose of the plover report was to inform managers of the status of the population in 2011. PARTICIPANTS: The following people participated in the colonial waterbird research: Linda Wires (Research Associate; data base manager, field supervisor; data quality expert), Derek Hamilton (aerial photo nest counter; GIS database manager). Derek Hamilton was an undergraduate and received training and professional development while conducting research. People working on the piping plover demographic study included Alice Van Zoeren (field assistant; data collection in field; trainer; bander), Stephanie Schubel (field coordinator; bander; data collection in field), Melissa Breyer (field assistant; data collection in field), Charlie Smith (field assistant; data collection in field; bander; boat operator), David Spencer (field assistant; data collection in field) and Sarah Saunders (field assistant, data collection in field). Individuals above receiving professional training in 2011 were Saunders (grad student) and David Spencer(undergraduate). Collaborators included Steve Lewis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Chip Weseloh (Canadian Wildlife Service), David Moore (Canadian Wildlife Services), University of Michigan Biological Station and Vince Cavelleri (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). TARGET AUDIENCES: For both components of the project the target audience is the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The completed 2011 colonial waterbird report resulted in several important outcomes/impacts. First, we developed a method of censusing bird colonies by using aerial photography. This technique has not been used in the context we use which is to count nesting pairs under diverse conditions (e.g. tree, ground, dense vs light vegetation; 8 species). We have reported the method and others are starting to use it. The significance is that it reduces time and cost of traditional ground counts and it eliminates disturbance to nesting birds. A final important outcome is that data on colony sites are being requested by non profits and government agencies when evaluating island quality for purchase. At the time of completion of the report, we proposed a refined method for future waterbird census efforts that reduces the number of colony sites visited. This proposal was funded and work will begin in 2012. For the piping plover component, outcomes include identification of the importance of female plover experience at a nesting site to her lifetime reproductive success. When females change sites, success decreases. This allows managers to evaluate the importance of minimizing disturbance at nest sites.
Publications
- Morris, R.D., D.V. Weseloh, L.R. Wires, C.Pekarik, F.J. Cuthbert, and D.J Moore. 2011. Population trends of Ring-billed Gulls breeding on the North American Great Lakes, 1976-2009. Waterbirds 34:202-212.
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Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This project has two goals: 1) inventory Great Lakes colonial waterbirds and use data to better inform management and conservation decisions and 2) conduct research directed at recovery (delisting) of the federally endangered Great Lakes population of the piping plover. Activities for the waterbird inventory in 2010 included completion of data collection in the Great Lakes which involved visiting colony sites for which data were still needed in Lake Erie and the St. Marys River. Additionally, lab staff completed estimates of nesting pairs obtained from aerial photographs. Finally, the database was completed and a final draft report was written. Activities for the piping plover recovery effort included data collection on number of nesting pairs, habitat use and estimates of reproductive success. These data were summarized for an annual report. Events: For the colonial waterbird component, no events were held. For the plover project, 2 training sessions were held in Michigan (Empire, MI and St. Ignace, MI) to train field assistants for the plover project throughout the breeding range. Participants were trained on data collection and reporting. No services were provided for the project. Products for the colonial waterbird component included a draft final report on the results of the Binantional Great Lakes Colonial Waterbird Census and a database for four census periods. For the plover component, an annual report was prepared summarizing results from the 2010 breeding season. The draft final report of the waterbird work over the past 4 years was circulated to reviewers by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The final report will not be completed until 2011 when it will be made public on a USFWS website. The data base needs to have latitude and longitudes verified and then it will be submitted to the USFWS Office of Migratory Birds where it will be added to an expanded website for census data on birds. Investigators will be able to request access. The plover annual report was distributed to partners throughout the Great Lakes region via email (electronic copy only). The purpose of the report is to inform managers of the status of the population in 2010. PARTICIPANTS: The following people participated in the colonial waterbird research: Linda Wires (Research Associate; data base manager, field supervisor; data quality expert),Brigid Murphy (field assistant; collected data on nesting birds), Charles Smith (field assistant; collected data on nesting birds; boat operator), Derek Hamilton (field assistant; collected data on nesting birds; counted nesting pairs from aerial photos) and Lori Krider (field assistant; GIS expert; counted nesting pairs from aerial photographs). All individuals except Wires are undergraduates and received training and professional development while conducting research. People working on the piping plover demographic study included Erin Roche (Post doc; data base manager; data quality expert; banding supervisor; project manager), Alice Van Zoeren (field assistant; data collection in field; bander), Stephanie Schubel (field assistant; bander; data collection in field), Melissa Breyer (field assistant; data collection in field), Charlie Smith (field assistant; data collection in field; bander; boat operator) and Kelsi Hunt (field assistant; data collection in field) and Sarah Saunders (field assistant, data collection in field). Individuals above receiving professional training were Roche (post doc), Saunders (PhD student) and Charles Smith (undergraduate). Collaborators included Steve Lewis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Chip Weseloh (Canadian Wildlife Service), David Moore (Canadian Wildlife Services), University of Michigan Biological Station and Katie Haws (Minnesota Department of Natural Resources). TARGET AUDIENCES: For both components of the project the target audience is the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
The colonial waterbird component of the project has not yet resulted in a final report and quality checked data base. Those will be completed in 2011. However, several important outcomes/impacts have occurred. First, we have developed a method of censusing bird colonies by using aerial photography. This technique has not been used in the context we use which is to count nesting pairs under diverse conditions (e.g. tree, ground, dense vs light vegetation; 8 species). We have reported the method and others are starting to use it. The significance is that it reduces time and cost of traditional ground counts and it eliminates disturbance to nesting birds. A final important outcome is that data on colony sites are being requested by non profits and government agencies when evaluating island quality for purchase. In 2010, I was contacted by non profits (Little Traverse Conservancy) for information on two islands which were ultimately purchased for protection in part due to the information provided on the uniqueness of the islands for Great Blue Herons. These were Twin Island in the St. Marys River and Iroquois Island in Lake Superior. For the piping plover component, outcomes include identification of season of greatest threat to plover survival (spring right before migration or during migration) and survival is related to temperature at this time. This information came from band resightings of Great Lakes birds throughout their annual range. This allows managers to evaluate the importance of non breeding habitat. We also analyzed the effect of banding on the survival of plover chicks and found there is not an effect on survival during this life stage. This is a very important finding because impact of banding on chicks is questioned during animal care and federal permitting processes. The primary impact of these outcomes is to inform federal and state managers of piping plovers about this new knowledge.
Publications
- E. A. Roche, J. B. Cohen, D. H. Catlin, D. L. Amirault, F. J. Cuthbert, C. Gratto-Trevor, J. Felio, and J. D. Fraser. 2010. Range-wide estimation of apparent survival for the Piping Plover. Journal of Wildlife Management. 74: 1784-1791.
- LeDee,O., T.W.Arnold, E.A.Roche, F.J.Cuthbert. 2010. The use of breeding and nonbreeding encounters to estimate survival and fidelity in the Great Lakes piping plover. The Condor 112: 637-643.
- LeDee, O., K.C.Nelson, and F.J. Cuthbert. 2010. The challenge of threatened and endangered species management in coastal areas. Coastal Management Journal. 38: 337-353.
- E. A. Roche, Arnold, T. W., F. J. Cuthbert, and J.H. Stucker. 2010. Colored plastic and metal leg bands do not affect survival of Piping Plover chicks. Journal of Field Ornithology. 81:317-324.
- Stucker, J.H., F.J. Cuthbert, B.Winn, B.L.Noel, S.B.Maddock, P.R.Leary, J.Cordes and L.C.Wemmer. 2010. Distribution of non-breeding Great Lakes Piping Plovers along Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines: ten years of band sightings. Waterbirds 33:22-32.
- Morris, R.D., D.V. Weseloh, F.J. Cuthbert, C.Pekarik, L.R. Wires and L.Harper. 2010 Distribution and abundance of nesting common and Caspian terns on the North American Great Lakes, 1976 to 1999. J. Great Lakes Research Volume 36: 44-56.
- Wires, L.R. and F.J. Cuthbert, 2010. Characteristics of Double-crested Cormorant colony sites in the U.S. Great Lakes. J Great Lakes Research. 36: 232-241.
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Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: This project has two parts that include improving accuracy of colonial waterbird census and monitoring efforts in the U.S. Great Lakes and evaluating and re-assessing piping plover demographic parameters important to long-term population recovery of this endangered species. Outputs for the colonial waterbird research include finalizing the 4th decadal colonial waterbird survey and completing 70% of data entry and analysis. Two field staff and one aerial photo technician were mentored and trained. One progress report was presented to an audience of managers at the Waterbird Society annual meeting. Outputs for the piping plover work included field research and lab analysis of 16 years of data on the breeding histories of adult plovers. Additionally, analysis of inbreeding in this small population was completed. Two workshops were held to prepare field monitors and agency biologist for field methods and data collection in summer 2009. A third workshop was required for monitors to evaluate the summer's research. These were co-presented by scientists from the University of Minnesota and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Additionally, project results were presented to scientific audiences at the American Ornithologists' Union and the Waterbird Society. Products include a database for double-crested cormorant nest sites and estimates of breeding pairs (disseminated to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service); database for piping plover breeding history in the Great Lakes (disseminated to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service); collaborations were fostered with scientists from the Canadian Wildlife Service, biologists from all states surrounding the Great Lakes and federal agency biologists (USFWS, National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service). Two students (Andy VonDuyke; Lauren Brudney) completed MS degrees under this project. PARTICIPANTS: Francesca J Cuthbert was PI on this project and supervised all aspects of the project including field work for the waterbird project. Cuthbert was the only salaried person through this source of funds. Linda Wires was a Research Associate for the colonial waterbird component of the project. Erin Roche was a PhD student who analyzed the plover data and conducted the pedigree analysis. The primary partner organization was the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Training opportunities and professional development were provided through graduate training and for a research associate. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for both parts of the research was the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and also state wildlife agencies in Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. Additionally, research findings were presented to U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service. These agencies use project results to manage and conserve colonial waterbirds and piping plovers. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Results from the colonial waterbird project provided waterbird biologists and wildlife management agencies in all states surrounding the Great Lakes with nesting colony location data and breeding pair estimates during 2007-2009. These data were added to those obtained during three previous census periods to produce a database that provides information on population trends. These findings document abundant species and those that are declining or rare. Data demonstrated the increase and stabilization of the double-crested cormorant population, the increase of ring-billed gulls and the small populations of terns and some species of waders. Without the Great Lakes perspective, population trends cannot be detected. Information from this project will be used to inform conservation and management efforts by individual states and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This knowledge may lead to a change in action by these agencies. Findings from the piping plover project identified two areas of concern for the ultimate survival of this population at risk. Analysis of the demographic data discovered that adult mortality is slowly increasing. This discovery led to analysis of individual adult mortality events and timing of death. From this study, we determined that mortality is increasing as a result of an increased number of merlins in the Great Lakes region. This small falcon feeds on birds along shorelines. Another important discovery was made through pedigree analysis of approximately 17 generations of plovers. Although the proportion of inbred individuals is relatively small, inbreeding in this population causes a decrease in chick hatching success, body weight and survival to fledging. Both of these finding are important for long term survival of piping plovers. A change in action by agencies has started to occur through management of merlins to reduce mortality of plovers.
Publications
- Haffner, C.D., F.J. Cuthbert, and T.W. Arnold. 2009. Space use by Great Lakes Piping Plovers during the breeding season. J. Field Ornithology 80: 270-279.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The goal of this project is to a) improve the accuracy of colonial waterbird census and monitoring efforts in the U.S. Great Lakes and to b) evaluate demographic parameters important to long-term recovery of the Great Lakes Piping Plover. Outputs for Part A address the following objectives: determine nest detection rates, develop and test species-specific sampling designs, and investigate feasibility of using aerial photography to census colonies in the U.S. Great Lakes. We repeated methods used in 2007 but moved to new study locations: U.S. waters of Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, St. Marys River, Detroit River and the St. Lawrence River. We determined nest detections rates for 4 species, tested species specific sampling designs for 5 species and obtained aerial photographs for 90% of waterbird colonies in Lake Huron and the St. Marys River. The Binational Waterbird Survey, which provides the context for this research, continues through summer 2009 so the full objectives will not be completed until final data are collected. The objectives of Part B are to: clarify assumptions about current demographic parameters, refine proposed reproductive success estimates and reassess projected time-lines for population recovery and estimate genetic variability of the Great Lakes endangered Piping Plover population. Relative fitness of wild and captive reared Piping Plovers was estimated, adult mortality was examined throughout the annual cycle, chick survival and factors affecting it over a 15 year period was examined and genetic samples were collected for future analysis. Results from the colonial waterbird and Piping Plover research were disseminated to scientists at a professional meeting (American Ornithologists' Meeting, 1 paper) and to conservation and management biologists at agency sponsored workshops/training sessions (Great Lakes Double-crested Cormorant Working Group (1 presentation); Waterbird Council of the Americas (1 presentation); Great Lakes Piping Plover Recovery Meetings (2 presentations); Great Lakes Waterbird Working Group Meeting (1 presentation) and Piping Plover Recovery Workshop (2 presentations). Outputs are also posted on the Great Lakes Waterbird Research Program website (http://www.waterbirds.umn.edu) and in annual reports to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. PARTICIPANTS: The following individuals worked on the project: Francesca J.Cuthbert (PI), Linda R. Wires (Research Associate), Gopi Sundar (Graduate Student), Erin Roche (Graduate Student), and Lauren Brudney (Graduate Student). These individuals were research assistants: Kelsi Hunt, Charles Smith, Patrick Kelly and Alice Van Zoeren. Partner agencies/organizations include: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service, Collaborators were: Jack Dingledine (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Steve Lewis (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)and D. Chip Weseloh (Canadian Wildlife Service). TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
Research conducted in 2006 tested methods and techniques that were used in 2007 and 2008 to increase accuracy of population estimates for colonial nesting waterbirds in the Great Lakes. Outcomes in 2008 were as follows. We used the new methodology from this project to conduct the second year of the Great Lakes Binational colonial Waterbird Survey in Lake Huron and the St. Marys River. Information from detection rates allowed us to identify sites where habitat structure reduces census accuracy. As a result, we placed greater emphasis on marking nests, increasing technician training and number of technicians. We focused heavily on obtaining estimates from aerial photographs at large multi-species colonies. This method reduces time and cost and eliminates disturbance of nesting birds. For Part B, the 2008 outcomes were as follows: we found that captive reared juveniles have lower 1 year survival than wild birds but that survival is the same for both groups after the first year of breeding. Based on this discovery we will institute predator training for captive individuals. The work on adult mortality suggests that adults are dying (likely from predation) between arrival at breeding grounds and laying eggs. We will institute a study in 2009 to monitor adults at time of arrival to verify our hypothesis. Research on chick mortality identified predation as they key reason for death of chicks and the predator community varies among sites. Mortality is lowest at sites with high monitor activity. We will increase time monitors spend on nesting beaches in 2009. The field component of Parts A and B is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Part B is also funded by The Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Publications
- Roche, E.R., Cuthbert, F.J. and Arnold, T. 2008. Relative fitness of wild and captive-reared Piping Plovers: does egg salvage contribute to recovery of the endangered Great Lakes population Biological Conservation 141: 3079-3088.
- Cuthbert, F.J. and Roche, E.R. 2008. Piping Plovers in Michigan: A 100 year perspective. Michigan Birds and Natural History 15:29-38.
- Wires, L.R. and Cuthbert, F.J. 2009. Characteristics of Double-crested Cormorant colony sites in the U.S. Great Lakes. Waterbirds. (Accepted)
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The goal of this project is to a) improve the accuracy of colonial waterbird census and monitoring efforts and the U.S. Great Lakes and to b)evaluate demographic parameters important to long-term population recovery of the Great Lakes Piping Plover. Outcomes for Part A address the following objectives: determine nest detection rates, develop and test species-specific sampling designs, and investigate feasibility of using aerial photography to census colonies in the U.S. Great Lakes. Methods described in the 2006 report were used in the first year of the Great Lakes Binational Colonial Waterbird Survey as the first test of a new approach to census and monitoring these large populations of waterbirds. We determined nest detection rates for 6 species, tested species specific sampling designs for 5 species and used aerial photography to census all colonies in lakes Michigan and Superior. The Binational Survey continues until 2009 and final objectives will not be met until this
Survey is completed. The objectives of Part B are to: clarify assumptions about current demographic parameters, refine proposed reproductive success estimates, and reassess projected time-lines for population recovery and estimate genetic variability of the Great Lakes endangered Piping Plover population. Using 2 population models and current data collected during the 07 breeding season, assumptions about current demographic parameters were updated and reproductive success estimates were refined. As a result of the reassessment of projected time-lines for population recovery, we identified 3 new questions for the project. The genetic analysis using pedigree methodology was initiated in 2007. Results were disseminated to other scientists at professional meetings (American Ornithologists' Union (1 paper); Waterbird Society (2 papers); Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference (1 poster) and to conservation and management biologists at agency sponsored workshops/training sessions (North
American Double-crested Cormorant Working Group (2 presentations); Waterbird Council of the Americas (1 presentation); Great Lakes Piping Plover Recovery Meetings (2 presentations). Results are also posted on the Great Lakes Waterbird Research Program website (http:/www.waterbirds.umn.edu) and in annual reports to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
PARTICIPANTS: The following individuals worked on the project: Francesca J. Cuthbert PI), Linda R. Wires (Research Associate) Erin Roche (Graduate Students). The following were field research assistants (Lauren Brudney, Alexander Smith, Charles Smith, and Anthony Arnold). Partner agencies/organizations: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan DNR, Minnesota DNR, U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service. Collaborators: Jack Dingledine (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Steve Lewis (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), D. Chip Weseloh (Canadian Wildlife Service). Training: trained individual cooperators to conduct waterbird surveys; trained field monitors for collection of data on Piping Plovers. There were done during workshops or individually.
Impacts
Results and techniques developed from Part A contributed to the following outcomes/impacts. We used new methodology from this project to conduct the first year of the Great Lakes Binational Colonial Waterbird Survey in lakes Michigan and Superior in 2007. Knowledge from detection rates allowed us to identify sites where habitat structure reduces census accuracy. Thus, greater emphasis was placed on marking nests, increasing technician training and number of technicians. Use of aerial photography allowed us to identify sites that can be censused accurately using aerial photos (vs. on the ground census estimates). The impact of aerial photography will be a change in monitoring methodology for future census efforts. This method greatly reduces time and cost in the field. For Part B, results developed contributed to the following outcomes: updated demographic parameters and revised estimates of reproductive success for the endangered Great Lakes Piping Plover population
led to more accurate population model outputs which continue to indicate the population is declining despite the actual positive growth documented. This conflict, despite accurate model inputs, indicates the following: 1) the population is larger than assumed or 2) breeding birds are immigrating from the Atlantic Coast or the Great Plains populations. The impact of these results is the initiation of a genetic study to identify the unknown individuals in the population. Evaluation of methods developed in Part A identified weaknesses in previous methods and demonstrates new techniques reduce time and cost. Evaluation of Part B identified a new research approach which will impact recovery. The primary resources for the project came from research support obtained from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. This research would not have been possible without these external funds.
Publications
- LeDee, O., F.J. Cuthbert and P. Bolstad. 2007. Journal of Coastal Ecology.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
This project is divided into two parts. The first goal is to improve accuracy of colonial waterbird census and monitoring efforts in the U.S. Great Lakes. In 2006 we began investigation of feasibility of censuing selected species (double-crested cormorants; Caspian terns, ring-billed gulls) using aerial photography instead of total ground counts. Approximately 50 colony sites (islands) in lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior were visited by float plane and photographed 1-5 times between May and July. We are currently using ArcView software to estimate number of nests/site to obtain estimates of breeding pairs. The second aspect of the project is an evaluation and reassessment of several piping plover demographic parameters important to long term population recovery. Progress was made on refinement of demographic parameters and two models were constructed to predict population growth trends. Both models predict extinction within 20 years but in fact the real population
demonstrates growth. This led to examination of why this conflict was observed. Although most (>90%) of chicks are banded, we annually discover unbanded individuals. We plan to determine genetic identity of these unmarked individuals to determine population of origin. These extra individuals may account for the population growth not captured by the models.
Impacts
Waterbirds are important biological resources in the Great Lakes. This project focuses on monitoring population trends of colonial waterbirds (~15 species) and one federally endangered shorebird. This research identifies population declines/increases and relates trends to environmental change. Research also identifies habitat for aquisition and protection thus producing social impacts. Finally, several study species are perceived to impact economic interests through their fish eating behavior and/or nesting activities on private property. Data from this research is used to manage and protect birds in the Great Lakes.
Publications
- Wires, L.R., K. Haws, F.J. Cuthbert, N. Drilling, and A.C. Smith. 2006. The Double-crested Cormorant and American White Pelican in Minnesota: First Statewide Census. The Loon: Fall.
- Wires, L.R. and F.J. Cuthbert. 2006. Historical populations of the Double-crested Cormorant: Implications for conservation and management in the 21st century. Waterbirds 29 (1): 9-37.
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