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WILDLIFE TRACK I - Monday, October 14, 2013
1:00 pm – 1:20 pm
Spring Dispersal Movements of Northern Bobwhites in Western Oklahoma
J. Matthew Carroll, Craig A. Davis, Dwayne R. Elmore, Samuel D. Fuhlendorf & Eric T. Thacker, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University
Surface mine reclamation is creating large tracts of early successional vegetation in portions of the northern bobwhite?s (Colinus virginianus; bobwhite) range, but understanding limiting factors on these sites is essential if they are to be managed successfully for bobwhite. We used radio telemetry to evaluate one potentially limiting factor, reproductive success, on Peabody WMA, a 3,330 ha reclaimed surface mine in western Kentucky. During 2010-2011 we captured bobwhite using funnel traps and monitored them (n = 210 radio-collared) during the breeding (1 Apr-30 Sep) season. We located 57 nests, of which 47.4% were successful and 52.6% were unsuccessful. We used the nest survival model in Program MARK to estimate daily nest survival rates (DSR) from 23 a priori models developed from 3 covariate suites: group, micro-habitat, and patch. Observed DSR was 0.949 (SE = 0.010) and nest survival was 0.303 (SE = 0.077). Nest age was the most influential factor for nest survival (? = 0.178, CI = 0.088-0.269). We found no evidence that micro-habitat or patch metrics influenced nest survival. Percent coverage of open herbaceous vegetation surrounding a nest had a minimal effect on nest survival (? = -0.013, CI = ?0.030-0.003). Our results suggest reclaimed mined lands can sustain successful breeding efforts of bobwhite. To increase nesting success, management of appropriate vegetation structure may be more important than managing for desirable species in such a unique landscape. Further research on reclaimed mined land should assess the influence of other micro-habitat and weather metrics on nest success.
1:20 pm - 1:40 pm
Evaluation of Multi-scale Factors Affecting Northern Bobwhite Nesting Ecology on Reclaimed Mined lands in Kentucky
Evan P. Tanner, Ashley M. Unger, Patrick D. Keyser & Craig A. Harper, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, John J. Morgan, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
Surface mine reclamation is creating large tracts of early successional vegetation in portions of the northern bobwhite?s (Colinus virginianus; bobwhite) range, but understanding limiting factors on these sites is essential if they are to be managed successfully for bobwhite. We used radio telemetry to evaluate one potentially limiting factor, reproductive success, on Peabody WMA, a 3,330 ha reclaimed surface mine in western Kentucky. During 2010-2011 we captured bobwhite using funnel traps and monitored them (n = 210 radio-collared) during the breeding (1 Apr-30 Sep) season. We located 57 nests, of which 47.4% were successful and 52.6% were unsuccessful. We used the nest survival model in Program MARK to estimate daily nest survival rates (DSR) from 23 a priori models developed from 3 covariate suites: group, micro-habitat, and patch. Observed DSR was 0.949 (SE = 0.010) and nest survival was 0.303 (SE = 0.077). Nest age was the most influential factor for nest survival (? = 0.178, CI = 0.088-0.269). We found no evidence that micro-habitat or patch metrics influenced nest survival. Percent coverage of open herbaceous vegetation surrounding a nest had a minimal effect on nest survival (? = -0.013, CI = ?0.030-0.003). Our results suggest reclaimed mined lands can sustain successful breeding efforts of bobwhite. To increase nesting success, management of appropriate vegetation structure may be more important than managing for desirable species in such a unique landscape. Further research on reclaimed mined land should assess the influence of other micro-habitat and weather metrics on nest success.
1:40 pm – 2:00 pm
Avian Habitat Response to Hay and Biofuels Production in Native Warm-Season Grass Stands in the Mid-South
J.L. Birckhead & C.A. Harper, Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, P.D. Keyser, Center for Native Grasslands Management, University of Tennessee, G.E. Bates & D. McIntosh, Department of Plant Science, University of Tennessee, J.C. Waller, Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee
Changing pasture and hayfield management practices have impacted grassland songbird and northern bobwhite Colinus virginianus populations in the Mid-South in the past fifty years. Non-native species, such as tall fescue Schedonorus phoenix and orchardgrass Dactylis glomerata, are commonly used for hay production in the Mid-South, where they are managed in dense stands that are harvested during peak nesting periods for grassland birds. Native warm-season grasses have been promoted for hay production and are often touted as beneficial for wildlife. Switchgrass Panicum virgatum is also being promoted for biofuels production. The benefits of native warm-season grass hay and biofuels stands for grassland birds and northern bobwhite is influenced by management. We conducted a study in Tennessee, 2010 & 2011, to evaluate the impact of two hay harvest treatments and a biofuels harvest treatment on vegetative structure for nesting and brood-rearing grassland birds and northern bobwhite in three native warm-season grass mixtures. Hay and biofuels stands provided adequate nesting cover for grassland songbirds and northern bobwhite through May, and hay harvests in May and June created suitable structure for brood-rearing northern bobwhite. However, hay harvests in May or June negatively impact nesting success for grassland songbirds and northern bobwhite. NWSG planted for biofuels only do not provide suitable structure for northern bobwhite broods. We recommend big bluestem Andropogon gerardii and indiangrass Sorghastrum nutans for hay production, as these species mature later and harvest in mid- to late June is more likely to allow successful initial nesting attempts.
2:00 pm – 2:20 pm
Ant Community Composition in Oklahoma Grasslands as an Evaluation of Food Availability for Northern Bobwhites
Allison Giguere & Dr. Carmen Greenwood, Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University
Ants, which are both abundant and diverse in arid grassland environments, fill many important ecological niches and comprise one of the predominant forage taxa for reproductive and juvenile Northern Bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus). A better understanding of the ecological and behavioral factors that shape ant community composition within the diverse habitats of arid short-grass prairie will contribute to the development of sustainable management practices conducive to conservation of Northern Bobwhite quail, which are currently in a state of decline. Diversity of vegetative structure and species composition, physical habitat gradients, differences in resource utilization and dominance interactions are among the factors that contribute to these prolific and complex assemblages of ant taxa. This study aims to quantify niche-partitioning behaviors among ant taxa in the Beaver Wildlife Management Area of the Oklahoma panhandle region. Six transects were established perpendicular to the riverbed, spanning the range of ecological regions from a riparian zone to upland sand dunes and were sampled using two sampling techniques. Replicated baiting techniques were utilized using 5 different resource categories. Pitfall traps were also established in each of the habitat zones along each transect, and were collected throughout the summers of 2012 and 2013. Physical soil and environmental conditions were documented within sampling regimens. Significant differences in ant total abundance in response to bait type and significant differences in total abundance related to habitat differences among the 4 ecoregions that were observed.
2:20 pm - 2:40 pm
Northern Bobwhite Seasonal Habitat Selection on a Reclaimed Surface Coal Mine in Kentucky
Ashley M. Unger, Evan P. Tanner, Craig A. Haper, Patrick D. Keyser & Frank T. van Manen, Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee; John J. Morgan, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
Reclaimed coal mines represent an opportunity to provide large tracts of habitat for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Reclaimed mine sites are commonly planted to non-native species, including sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata) and tall fescue (Schedonorus phoenix), which can inhibit growth of more desirable plant species and limit favorable structure for northern bobwhite. Although bobwhite are found on reclaimed mine sites, there has been no studies documenting how bobwhites use various vegetation types common to reclaimed mine sites. Habitat use studies can provide information on preferred vegetation types on these unique landscapes and help direct future management decisions. We trapped and radiomarked 841 bobwhite, October 2009 to September 2011, on Peabody Wildlife Management Area, a 3,330 ha reclaimed coal mine in Kentucky, USA, to investigate how bobwhite use the associated vegetation types and respond to habitat management practices. We used 104 individuals to describe habitat use during the breeding season (1 April – 30 September), and 51 coveys during the non-breeding season (1 October – 31 March). Bobwhites were closer than would be expected to disked areas and roads and avoided areas dominated by dense, planted native warm-season grasses and areas with dense shrub cover during the breeding season. Bobwhites used disk blocks and areas 1 growing season after a burn more than would be expected, and specifically preferred disked or recently burned NWSG during the non-breeding season. Our results suggest habitat use was influenced primarily by vegetation structure and habitat management practices. Disking and prescribed fire can reduce the density of NWSG and sericea lespedeza, improving structure and enhancing habitat for bobwhites.
2:40 pm - 3:00 pm
Factors Influencing Grasshopper (Orthoptera: Acrididae) Subfamily Distribution Along a Vegetation Gradient in Northern Bobwhite Habitat
Kenneth Masloski, Oklahoma State University; Mark Payton, Oklahoma State University; Michael Reiskind, North Carolina State University; Carmen Greenwood, Oklahoma State University
This research contributes to an effort to characterize arthropod community assemblages in Western Oklahoma grasslands that overlap with waning Northern Bobwhite populations. Grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae) are significant arthropods in the grassland ecosystem. They are important for returning nutrients to the soil through frass production and are important prey items for other insects, mammals, and birds including the Northern Bobwhite. It has been observed that Acrididae subfamilies will partition habitat use based on dietary habits, with those that eat primarily grasses often in greater abundance in areas dominated by grass and those with a broader diet often in greater abundance in areas with a mix of grass and non-grass plants. We initiated a habitat-based approach of grasshopper sampling on the Beaver River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Beaver, Oklahoma. Using density rings and sweep net sampling, we attempted to characterize the community of Acrididae that exists along a vegetation gradient in the Beaver River WMA. The vegetation types were characterized using a Daubenmire frame to estimate the proportion of cover of four different functional groups: grass, forb, litter, and bare ground. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated and determined significant (p < 0.05) relationships between the proportion of cover of functional groups and overall grasshopper density, Gomphocerinae subfamily relative abundance, and Melanoplinae subfamily relative abundance. A two factor factorial ANOVA with repeated measures was performed to determine significance between the relative abundance of Gomphocerinae and Melanoplinae grasshoppers in each vegetation type. This research supports dietary-based habitat partitioning by Acrididae subfamilies.
BREAK
3:20 pm - 3:40 pm
Oak Savanna Restoration: Oak Response to Fire and Thinning Through 28 Years
Ronald E. Masters, Tall Timbers Research Station; Jack Waymire, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
We used a small plot study to determine the efficacy of fire frequency and thinning as management tools for restoration of oak savanna, oak woodlands, pine-bluestem woodlands and pine savanna for application on a landscape scale. We initially reduced stand density to favor oak canopy dominance, except in one treatment pine dominance, to near pre-settlement stand density on selected experimental units. Thinned stands were then subjected to 0-, 4-, 3-, 2-, and 1-year late dormant season (late Feb- early April) fire frequency regimes for 26 years. For comparison we withheld control units from treatment and also included unthinned but with 4-year burn regime treatment units. We included two additional thinning treatments, the oak-savanna (HNT1) and pine-bluestem (PBS) treatments, both with annual burn regimes; the HNT1 had all pine removed (approximately 50 percent of the basal area) and the PBS had half of the hardwood thinned (approximately 25 percent of the pre-treatment basal area). We compared mortality rate, acorn production, and growth response of selected post oaks and blackjack oaks. We also assessed nutrient content of post oak acorns to determine prescribed fires potential influence on nutrient status. We found a differential response by species to presence or absence of fire; but all selected trees responded favorably in diameter growth to thinning. Blackjack oak mortality was highest on unthinned and unburned sites versus any of the fire treatments because of hypoxylon canker, an indirect result of high stand density (competition) and drought stress. Mortality of post-oaks was related to initial burns and to some extent cumulative effects of fire frequency interacting with fuel loads. Although thinning efforts on a landscape level were applied on Pushmataha Wildlife Management Area beginning in 1978, fire frequency was >4-year intervals, inadequate for maintenance of savanna and woodland structure. Based on small plot study results we began landscape application of frequent fire on a 1-3 year cycle in 1997, increased thinning in 1999-2001, then restoration thinning on the landscape in 2008 through present. Woodland-grassland/shrubland obligate songbirds, white-tailed deer and Rocky Mountain elk have responded favorably.
3:40 pm – 4:00 pm
Fire on the Forty Program Models Effective Partnership for Managing Wildlife Habitat
Scott L. Edwards & John Gruchy, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks; Jeffrey Lee, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Fire is the natural disturbance process that influenced much of the southeastern United States, and many important habitat types have plant and wildlife communities adapted to and dependent upon frequent burning. Since the early 1900s, however, fire frequency across these landscapes has been reduced for a variety of reasons. Prescribed burning is the deliberate application of fire to accomplish land management objectives. Many landowners are reluctant to use prescribed fire due to high costs and liability concerns. To address some of these concerns, wildlife biologists from a variety of state, federal, and NGO organizations in Mississippi collaboratively worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program and developed the Fire on the Forty Program to provide cost-share assistance for landowners who voluntarily manage their properties? habitat. We identified seven counties as focal areas based on priority habitats, management need, and fire deliverability, and implemented marketing campaigns to raise program awareness. During the past two years, we received 311 applications totaling over 39,000 acres for burning assistance. Projects were competitively ranked based on potential habitat benefits and we funded 215 properties totaling 27,964 acres. Landowners received a 50% cost-share reimbursement, and funding for the Fire on the Forty Program should continue through 2015. The landowner response to this program demonstrates the value of cost-share incentives to encourage habitat management and reaffirms that prescribed fire can be strategically applied to effectively deliver management practices in areas of conservation need.
4:00 pm – 4:20 pm
A Decision Tool for Longleaf Restoration Based on Value to Wildlife Populations
James B. Grand, U.S. Geological Survey, Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Auburn Universty; Amy L. Silvano, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University
Across its historic range, the longleaf pine ecosystem has been reduced to approximately 5% of its historic footprint. Declines in populations of dozens of species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants associated with this extremely diverse ecosystem occurred concomitantly. Several are now endangered or threatened, and many are species of conservation concern. Numerous entities have established ambitious targets for reestablishing, enhancing, and protecting longleaf ecosystems. Because of the high cost, long-term nature, and uncertainty of success for these conservation efforts, careful consideration is given to maximizing the ecological benefits from them. We developed a dynamic Bayesian decision network to estimate the likelihood of outcomes, cost, and value to wildlife for individual projects. The model relies on information regarding the distribution of potential habitat for individual species, the density of urban areas, and the level of conservation protection associated with the project. We used estimates of the vegetative structure for each land cover type, and density of potential habitat in surrounding areas to predict colonization and use by individual species. We used the level of stewardship and density of urban areas to predict the likelihood that land cover would be maintained in desired conditions and that prescribed fire would be used maintain desired vegetative structure. We also demonstrate the use of the model to compare proposed actions including, midstory removal, prescribed burning, thinning and reforestation.
4:20 pm – 4:40 pm
Potential Natural Vegetation of Arkansas' Mississippi Alluvial Valley
Charles Klimas; Environmental Laboratory U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center; Thomas Foti, Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission; Jody Pagan; 5-Oaks Wildlife Services, L.L.C.; Malcolm Williamson; Center for Advanced Spatial Technologies, University of Arkansas
Over the past three decades, extensive field studies of wetland plant communities have been conducted in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. These field studies have been carried out for various purposes under the auspices of federal and state research programs or in conjunction with Corps of Engineers project planning efforts. In the process, a wetland site classification approach has evolved based on hydrology, soils, and geomorphic setting. The research data and classification system have been recently used for a new purpose: to create a set of Potential Natural Vegetation (PNV) maps covering more than 26,000 square miles within the region. The purpose of PNV maps is to serve as blueprints for restoration planning and prioritization. Due to the fact that the hydrology of the landscape has been permanently changed by major flood control projects, the PNV maps do not represent the distribution of the original, pre-settlement vegetation. Rather, they identify the natural communities that are appropriate to the modern altered site conditions. By using these maps, persons interested in restoring particular tracts of land can identify the plant communities appropriate to the conditions present. Conversely, individuals interested in restoring particular plant communities can identify parts of the landscape that can support each respective type. The PNV maps are available for use in a Geographic Information System, where a range of complex restoration scenarios (such as the development of wildlife travel corridors or refuge areas) can be explored efficiently, and alternative approaches can be compared to one another in terms of costs and ecological effectiveness.
4:40 pm - 5:00 pm
Forestry Bioenergy in the Southeast United States: Implications for Wildlife Habitat and Biodiversity
Jason M. Evans, University of Georgia, Carl Vinson Institute of Government; Robert J. Fletcher, Jr., University of Florida, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation; Janaki Alavalapati, Virginia Tech University, Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation; Daniel Geller, University of Georgia, College of Engineering; Alison Smith Bramlet, University of Georgia, College of Environment and Design; Jon Calabria, University of Georgia, College of Environment and Design
The U.S. southeast is emerging as a global epicenter for woody biomass-based energy facilities. However, expansion of this industry raises many concerns about potential changes in the management of southeastern forests, particularly in terms of increased conversion pressure on remnant native ecosystem assemblages and associated wildlife impacts. To begin assessing these issues, we partnered with National Wildlife Federation to conduct detailed geo-spatial assessments of land cover change risks, long-term harvest area footprints, and overall wildlife habitat impacts for several bioenergy facilities across the southeastern region. We first implemented a series of travel distance, competition, and land use conversion analyses to identify areas most suitable for woody biomass sourcing from each facility?s perspective. Using the2011 GAP land cover classifications as a habitat baseline, we next conducted a series of scenario runs to identify general biomass availability under different sourcing policy screens. We then iteratively identified areal risks to imperiled ecosystems associated with each sourcing screen. Scenarios that assumed no restriction against ecosystem conversion unsurprisingly indicated substantial habitat impact risks for all facilities. However, we found that large-scale biomass sourcing of yellow pine in coastal plain and piedmont sites is likely achievable under policies that restrict sourcing to the extant plantation forestry land cover base. Moreover, some research suggests that careful thinning protocols for bioenergy utilization could potentially promote improved wildlife values in extant southeastern plantation pine forests. Large-scale bioenergy sourcing from native hardwood forests, by contrast, appears inherently more problematic for long-term maintenance of wildlife habitat and diversity.
WILDLIFE TRACK II - Tuesday, October 15, 2013
10:15 am - 10:35 am
Using occupancy analysis to select focal species as surrogates for species of concern
Amy L. Silvano, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University; James B. Grand, U.S. Geological Survey, Alabama Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Auburn University
Most imperiled species are rare or elusive which makes it challenging to gather data to estimate their response to habitat restoration. Basing management decisions on focal species serving as surrogates of imperiled species may be a useful alternative for evaluating habitat restoration until populations rebound. We present a repeatable, systematic method for selecting focal species to indicate the potential response of imperiled species to habitat management. We performed 3688 surveys at 714 sites on 13 study areas from the southern Appalachians to the lower coastal plain in Alabama. We used single-season occupancy analyses to estimate species? sensitivities to land cover, vegetative structure, and landscape characteristics for all species detected. We then estimated relative sensitivity of occupancy by each species to site characteristics. For undetected imperiled species, we developed 26 different habitat profiles to identify relationships between use and response to changes in those same site characteristics. We then systematically selected multiple focal species that were associated with the relative sensitivity to site characteristics of imperiled species. Using these methods we were able to find focal species for 76% of the targeted habitat profiles. Although, there are numerous methods used to select focal species, the method presented here is based on empirically derived sensitivities to landscape characteristics. We suggest that these focal species can be useful to predict, monitor, or possibly evaluate impacts of proposed management actions when empirical data for imperiled species are not available.
10:35 am - 10:55 am
State Agency and University Cooperative Wildlife Research: Mississippi's 37-Year Success Story
Scott L. Edwards, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries; Steve Demarais, Mississippi State University, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture; Randy Spence, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks
Scientific knowledge provides an important basis for effective wildlife management decisions. Given frequent budget constraints that impact the ability of wildlife agencies to generate their own knowledge, using trained research scientists at a university is a cost-effective alternative. We describe the cooperative agreement between Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) and Mississippi State University (MSU) as a model of cost-effective partnership that blends science with management. Since 1976, our cooperation has produced 107 Master of Science theses, 19 Doctor of Philosophy dissertations, and 301 peer-reviewed publications which have contributed to the scientific literature while effectively addressing adaptive management needs of the agency. We describe the Deer Management Assistance Program as an example of the products produced through this cooperative venture. We also describe advances in waterfowl management that addressed regional and national issues.
10:55 am - 11:15 am
Economic Returns of Conservation
Rob Southwick, Southwick Associates, Inc; Tom Allen, Southwick Associates, Inc.; Greg Knadle, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Recent research shows federal, state, local and private sources invest over $38 billion annually in the United States for natural resource and habitat conservation. These dollars, building upon conservation investments in past years, support outdoor industries and on-the-ground efforts that generated approximately $680 billion annually in retail spending, 12.8 million jobs and nearly $1.7 trillion in total economic activity. Not well known, by properly communicating these results, additional support for fish and wildlife management can be secured along with a stronger future for wildlife and its associated recreational endeavors.
BREAK
1:00 pm - 1:20 pm
Effects of Field Management Practices on Northern Bobwhite Habitat
John P. Gruchy, Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee; Craig A. Harper, Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, University of Tennessee
Native grasses and forbs have been promoted in conservation programs to enhance habitat for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). However, high seeding rates and a lack of management result in vegetative structure that is less than optimal. We implemented six management practices (November disk, March disk, March burn, March mowing, strip-herbicide application, and September burn) with a control on an unmanaged field of planted native warm-season grass (hereafter, nwsg) in East Tennessee, 2003 – 2004, to evaluate effects on habitat for northern bobwhite. We recorded vegetation composition, vegetation structure, and biomass of invertebrate orders preferred by bobwhite broods, 2004 - 2005. Disking treatments increased coverage of bobwhite food plants and reduced planted native grass cover. Disking and burning treatments enhanced vertical cover and openness at ground level, and decreased litter in the season after treatment. March burning increased native grass cover and decreased undesirable grass cover. Structural and compositional variables did not differ between March mowing and control throughout the study. No treatment differences were observed in invertebrate biomass. We recommend burning and disking regimes to maintain early succession and improve vegetation structure for northern bobwhite. Further, we recommend mowing be discontinued as a habitat management practice for northern bobwhite.
1:20 pm - 1:40 pm
Survival and Recovery Rates of Male Wild Turkeys on Private Lands in North-central Louisiana
Michael E. Byrne, Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia; Michael J. Chamberlain, Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia; James G. Dickson, School of Forestry, Louisiana Tech University; Larry Savage, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries; Norman J. Stafford III, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Harvest is an important mortality factor for male eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris). To properly manage harvest it is necessary to understand the relationship between annual survival and factors such as hunter access, season length, and bag limits. We banded 261 male wild turkeys from 2002 ? 2009 and estimated survival and recovery parameters based on band recoveries from 2002 ? 2012 on private lands in the pine-dominated landscape of north-central Louisiana. Hunting season length was 23 days from 2002 ? 2006 and 30 days from 2007 ? 2012 with a 2-bird limit in all years of study. We found that survival and recovery rates varied by age class. Adult and juvenile annual survival was 0.30 (SE = 0.04) and 0.51 (SE = 0.10), whereas recovery rates were 0.28 (SE = 0.04) and 0.07 (SE = 0.02) respectively. Direct recovery rates of adults increased when season length increased to 30 days. Recovery rates were considerably lower than published estimates for public land in southeast Louisiana, suggesting that restricted hunter access on private land may lead to reduced hunting pressure and harvest. Recovery rates of juveniles were low, possibly due to hunters choosing not to harvest juveniles. Despite low recovery rates and restricted access of hunters on private lands, survival estimates were similar to public lands in Louisiana under similar season length and bag limits. Conversely, survival rates in our study were considerably lower than a parcel of public land in south-central Louisiana with a 9 day season and limited hunter access. We offer that the minimal harvest of juveniles on our study areas likely resulted from private land hunters selectively choosing to avoid harvest of juveniles, potentially serving to maintain quality hunting as a large portion of the juvenile cohort each year was recruited into the adult population. Our findings, coupled with earlier studies in the region, suggest that changes in season length are a viable option for managers to control harvest mortality of male wild turkeys.
2:00 pm - 2:20 pm
Spring and Summer Movement Patterns of Rio Grande Wild Turkey Hens in Texas
Jesse G. Oetgen, Jennifer Barrow & Kevin Mote, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Mason D. Conley, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University; Bret A. Collier, Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, Texas A&M University
Rio Grande wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia) population dynamics have been studied extensively across Texas, however, little is known about Rio Grande wild turkey wintering and pre-nesting movement patterns. We tracked Rio Grande turkeys on 3 study sites within the Cross Timbers and Prairies Ecoregion of Texas. Each site represented a unique set of habitat conditions ? burned by Possum Kingdom wildfire complex of 2011, unburned conditions typical of the region, and a fragmented landscape surrounding the Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands. GPS transmitters recorded the location of each turkey at least once an hour from February to October 2012 and March 2013 to present. Hens dispersed from winter flocks on approximately March 15 each year. Distance traveled from core fall\winter area to nesting area varied from less than 1 up to 10 miles, and hens often initiated nests in locations which were previously unvisited. Our results indicate that hens will travel long distances in search of suitable spring and summer habitat. Our data also suggests that nest site selection may be a function of something other than a hen?s comparison of suitable nest sites.
2:20 pm - 2:40 pm
Nest Site Characteristics of Rio Grande Wild Turkey Hens in Texas
Jennifer Barrow, Jesse G. Oetgen & Kevin D. Mote, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Mason G. Conley, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Texas A&M University; Bret A. Collier, Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, Texas A&M University
Rio Grande wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia) nesting habitats and nest site characteristics have been studied in various regions of Texas, but little is known about nest site attributes in the Cross Timbers and Prairies region of the state. We tracked Rio Grande turkeys on 3 study sites within Cross Timbers and Prairies Ecoregion of Texas . Each site represented a unique set of habitat conditions – burned by Possum Kingdom wildfire complex of 2011, unburned conditions typical of the region, and a fragmented landscape of private land intermixed with public property of the Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) National Grasslands. GPS transmitters recorded the location of each turkey at least once an hour from February to October 2012 and March 2013 to present. Locations identify dates that hens began laying, incubating, when/if nests were abandoned, and, if nests were successful, dates at which brood-rearing began. Nests were inspected at least once during the incubation period. Data collected included number of eggs, diameter and height of nest cover, and dominant species of cover. Sixty-four nests were located, with 9.4 percent hatching success. Our results suggest that woody cover is important in nest site selection, although a particular species of woody cover does not appear to be selected for. Distance from water appears to be important. Our results also suggest that diameter and height of nest cover are not a determining factor for nest site selection.
2:40 pm - 3:00 pm
Movement Ecology of Rio Grande Wild Turkey Broods in Texas
Mason D. Conley, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University; Jesse G. Oetgen & Jennifer Barrow, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Bret A. Collier, Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, Texas A&M University
Quantifying space use represents a vital component in animal habitat selection studies and provides the foundation for a wide variety of research and management applications. Rio Grande wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo intermedia) are a gregarious, highly nomadic species with movements fluctuating during various life-history strategies. Of primary interest in habitat selection studies of brooding wild turkey hens is identifying habitats selected immediately post hatch as these location are likely represent optimal foraging and cover conditions. Here, we document movements of GPS tagged Rio Grande wild turkey hen movements during the 2 week brooding period when poults are in the pre-flight stage. Overall, female wild turkey movements were short (<200m per day), typically centered in and around the nesting site, and increased slightly as the number of days since hatch increased. Additionally, brooding hens showed an affinity for woody vegetation while poults are in the pre-flight stage (< 2 weeks) but as poults age, hen-poult group movements increasingly selected for more diverse vegetation types. Our results indicate that perhaps hen nest site selection may be driven by perceived brooding habitat within the surrounding areas.
BREAK
3:20 pm - 3:40 pm
First Look at the Molecular Features in the Eye Worm (Oxyspirura petrowi) by a Small Scale Genome Sequence Survey
Lixin Xiang, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University; Dale Rollins, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, San Angelo, Texas and Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch; Alan M. Fedynich, Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University-Kingsville; and Guan Zhu, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University
The eye worm Oxyspirura petrowi is prevalent and could negatively impact Northern Bobwhite quail within Texas and other regions of United States. However, little is known about the general biology and genome composition of O. petrowi. To fill the knowledge gap, we performed a small scale random genome sequence survey (GSS) and sequenced 18S rRNA and the intergenic region between 18S and 28S rRNA genes of O. petrowi. This study not only rapidly generated a large number of molecular sequence data for the first time for O. petrowi, but also provided a snapshot of the genome for the eye worm in quail. The survey also identified a large number of microsatellite sequences that may be employed in further genotyping and population genetics studies. Our phylogenetic reconstructions based on 18S rRNA sequences indicated that Spiruroidea was paraphyletic, while O. petrowi, Streptopharagus and Spirocerca formed a sister clade to the filarial nematodes. The obtained ITS sequence data also permitted us to design specific primers for molecular detection of O. petrowi in fecal samples, which may also be adapted to detect this nematode in insect intermediate hosts for surveillance and developing strategies to control the transmission of eye worms from intermediate hosts to quail. We also determined that ~28% - 33% of the birds were O. petrowi positive, suggesting that eye worm was a significant parasite in at least some quail ranches in Texas.
3:40 pm - 4:00 pm
Comparative Ecology of Northern Bobwhite and Scaled Quail in a Sand Sagebrush Community
Evan P. Tanner, R. Dwayne Elmore, Craig A. Davis & Samuel D. Fuhlendorf, Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University
The northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) have both experienced declines over the last century. These declines have been attributed largely to changes in land use and plant communities, yet climate is an important driver, particularly in the arid southwest. Areas of sympatric distribution offer the opportunity to evaluate differences in life history between these two quail species under similar plant communities and climate variation. Despite this, few studies have quantified these differences in a sympatric zone. In March of 2012, we began evaluating northern bobwhite and scaled quail populations on Beaver River WMA, which is located in a sand sagebrush plant community in western Oklahoma. Our objective was to identify differences in behavior and population dynamics between these sympatric species. We analyzed micro-habitat parameters at nest and random locations for both species. Micro-habitat parameters included angle of obstruction, shrub density, coverage of functional plant groups, and visual obstruction. To date, a total of 542 birds have been radio-marked and monitored, of which 430 were bobwhite and 112 were scaled quail. Nest initiations have been low, likely the result of a drought within the region. Initial vegetation results support the importance of vertical structure and coverage of usable nesting substrate such as grasses and leaf litter to support nesting efforts. There was no difference in these measures between species. Additional analyses will include estimating nest and adult bird survival rates between species using Program MARK, as well as comparing demographic parameters under varying weather patterns.
4:00 pm - 4:20 pm
Bias in Population Estimates of White-tailed Deer from Camera Survey
M.T. Moore, A.M. Foley, C.A. DeYoung, D.G. Hewitt, T.E. Fulbright, D.A. Draeger Texas A&M Kingsville
Use of trail cameras to make population estimates of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has increased since an estimator was developed in 1997. We evaluated the accuracy of the camera estimator in six 81-ha enclosures with varying densities of deer replicated on two study areas. Baited camera surveys were conducted for 14 days in autumn and winter. We also tested the finding from previous studies that the probability of sighting bucks and does in photographs was equal. Finally, we conducted an open range test by comparing a camera survey to a helicopter survey. The camera estimator underestimated known populations of marked deer in the enclosures by a mean of 32.2%. The underestimates were the result of photos/marked buck being 1.9 times greater than photos/marked doe. However, based on the marked populations camera surveys estimated >90% of bucks. Deer density and season did not affect population estimate bias but photos/deer were 1.8 times greater during winter versus autumn. On the open range test, number of unique bucks identified during camera survey was double the number of bucks sighted during a 67% coverage helicopter survey of 2,299 ha that included the 607 ha camera survey site. Estimates of doe:buck and fawn:doe ratios were 280% and 31% higher from helicopter survey than camera survey, respectively. Population estimates from baited camera surveys, while negatively biased, are simple to conduct and calculate and, on average, estimate a relatively high (68%) portion of the adult population.
4:20 pm - 4:40 pm
Impacts of Anthropogenic Disturbance on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Resource Selection and Survival in Oklahoma
Ashley Unger, Sam Fuhlendorf, Dwayne Elmore & Craig Davis, Natural Resources Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University
Lesser prairie-chicken (LPC) populations have declined by greater than 90% from historic levels, and occupy only scattered portions of their historical range. A recent surge in energy development has raised concerns about the viability of the already fragmented population to increased anthropogenic disturbance. As energy companies expand throughout the region, roads, power lines, noise, and other forms of anthropogenic disturbance also increase. A limited number of studies have examined the effects of such development on LPCs and concluded that anthropogenic features can affect LPC home ranges, movement, and directly cause mortality. However it is also important to evaluate the effects of anthropogenic features on LPC at different scales and different structure densities. It is also unclear how different atttributes of a structure, such as height, movement, and sound affect LPCs. Sound related to energy development has been found to significantly affect movements and lek attendance of sage grouse, and may have similar affects on the LPC. We initiated a study in western Oklahoma to examine the relationship between development and LPCs in the spring of 2013. We trapped 43 individuals using walk-in funnel traps at 3 leks sites from March to May. We attached solar, GPS transmitters to 36 individuals, including 13 females and 23 males. In three months, we documented 15 mortalities including 7 females. We also found 6 nests, of which 2 were successful and 1 is still incubating.
4:40 pm - 5:00 pm
Black-tailed Prairie Dog Response to Fire and Grazing Interactions
Amber D. Breland, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Oklahoma State University at time of study); R. Dwayne Elmore & Samuel D. Fuhlendorf, Oklahoma State University
Restoring historic fire-grazing interactions and the keystone species, the black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus), are two management priorities in North America?s grasslands. To evaluate the response of prairie dogs to the fire-grazing interaction, plots of uncolonized mixed-grass prairie measuring 2 ha were burned directly adjacent to active prairie dog colonies on Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Fires were completed in 2009 and 2010 and prairie dog abundance and foraging activity was monitored throughout the summer of both years. Longhorn cattle (Bos taurus) and American bison (Bison bison) had access to the sites throughout the study thus replicating historic conditions where herbivores freely choose foraging patches. Prairie dogs responded positively to treatments by immediately colonizing all burned areas in both years, with the strongest response occurring in 2009, when precipitation during the growing season was lowest. There was no observed attempt to colonize any unburned (control) grasslands. When applied to appropriate sites, it appears that the fire-grazing interaction can create valuable habitat for dispersing prairie dogs which can aid in colony expansion and potentially improve conditions for colony establishment.
WILDLIFE TRACK III - Tuesday, October 15, 2013
10:15 am - 10:35 am
Ecology of Mottled Ducks in Coastal South Carolina
James C. Shipes, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State University; J. Brian Davis, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State University; Ernie P. Wiggers, Nemours Wildlife Foundation; Molly R. Kneece, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State University; Richard M. Kaminski, Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Mississippi State University
The mottled duck (Anas fulvigula) is closely related to mallards (A. platyrhynchos) and endemic to parts of Florida, Mexico, and Gulf Coastal United States. From 1975-1983, mottled ducks were released on wetlands in coastal South Carolina. Unpublished banding data indicate a dispersing and increasing population of South Carolina mottled ducks since their initial release. We are investigating breeding ecology of mottled ducks in the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers (ACE) Basin, South Carolina.
We radio-marked 80 and 36 female mottled ducks in August 2010 and 2011, respectively, and used aerial and ground reconnaissance to monitor movements and habitat use from fall-winter. Initially our goal was to use radio-marked females as our sample to study breeding ecology in subsequent springs. Because of significant transmitter failure in 2010, we conducted indicated breeding pair surveys (IBPs) from February to July 2011 and 2012 and located nests of unmarked hens in managed impoundments.
Overall, we found 42 nests of unmarked females (n = 25 in 2011, n = 17 in 2012). Nest success rates were 18% (+ 0.08); (x ? + SE) in 2011, 21% (+ 0.10) in 2012, and 19% (+ 0.06) overall. Clutch size averaged 7.6 (+ 0.33); (x ? + SE) eggs in 2011, 9.4 (+ 0.50) in 2012, and 8.4 (+ 0.34) overall. For radio-marked females in 2012, we discovered 3 nests initiated by 2 different females; these nests were unsuccessful. Seven known mortalities of females occurred and apparent survival was (81% + 0.07) overall. Data analysis is ongoing at this time.
10:35 am - 10:55 am
Hunter Effort and Success in Publicly Managed Mourning Dove Fields
Kelly E. Douglass, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission; David T. Cobb, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission; Phillip D. Doerr, North Carolina State University, Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Program
We attempted to quantify hunter effort and success in five publicly managed mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) fields during the 2007 and 2008 dove hunting seasons on Conoho Farms (CF) in Martin County, North Carolina. Self-administered diary surveys (N = 845) were mailed to every individual receiving a special hunt (SH) and point-of-sale (PS) permit during both dove hunting seasons on CF. We used the modified Tailored Design method to collect hunter use, effort, and success data for each hunting season. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test to determine differences in hunter effort and success between seasons and permit types and among fields. The adjusted overall response rate for the survey was 74.7%. Only 141 (22.7%) respondents reported hunting doves at CF. Respondents reported expending 801.75 hours (x = 4.01, SE 0.13), firing 6782 shots (x = 33.91, SE 2.25), and harvesting 1331 doves (x = 6.66, SE 0.36) during the 2007-2008 dove hunting seasons. Hunters reported firing a mean of 5.68 (SE 0.33) shots per harvested dove. Hunter effort and success per hunting event did not differ between seasons, but were significantly greater for SH permittees than PS permittees. SH permittees harvested more doves than PS permittees, and hunter success differed among fields. The number of hours hunted, but not shots fired, differed among fields. The results of this study can be used to improve the permitting system and increase hunting opportunities for dove hunters in North Carolina, and may be used in the Atlantic Flyway to manage dove populations in the Eastern Management Unit through regulating harvest.
10:55 am - 11:15 am
Seasonal Diurnal Habitat Use by Raccoons in an Agricultural Landscape
David Ferrell, University of Tennessee at Martin; Tanner Romsdal, University of Tennessee at Martin; Dr. Eric Pelren, University of Tennessee at Martin; Dr. Bradley Ray, University of Tennessee at Martin
We radio monitored 13 raccoons (Procyon lotor) from August 2010 through February 2012 in an agricultural region in Northwest Tennessee to ascertain seasonal and gender differences in diurnal habitat use. Males were located 66 times and females were located 114 times. All locations were in ground dens, tree cavities, or brush piles. Male raccoons exhibited no significant difference in diurnal habitat use among seasons. Trees were used more than other habitats during spring, summer and fall, and were used to the same degree as ground dens during winter. Female raccoons exhibited significantly different diurnal habitat use among seasons (X2=16.70, P=0.01). Ground dens represented 69% of female locations during spring, but were not used during summer, when tree cavities and brush piles represented 57% and 43% of locations, respectively. Limiting trees with cavities and brush piles may lower carrying capacity of this species where it can have significant effect on profitability of agricultural operations.
BREAK
1:00 pm - 1:20 pm
Are Antler Restriction Regulations Influencing Breeding Chronology?
Micah Poteet, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Sean Willis, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Rusty Wood, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; Gary Calkins, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
State mandated antler restrictions designed to improve both the number, and age structure of bucks in the population have been implemented in many (112) counties in TX. The objective of this study is to monitor the breeding chronology and reproductive potential of white-tailed deer (Odocoilius virginianis) during pre- and post-implementation of antler restriction regulations enacted in 2006. An unrelated statewide breeding chronology study was conducted in the early 1990s. This study indicated high conception rates and defined the breeding chronology for the Pineywoods ecological area. In order to acquire more recent and site specific breeding chronology data to be used as a pre-regulation baseline, another study was initiated in 2005. The study site was the Davy Crockett National Forest (DCNF) in Houston County, TX. During the period from 2005-2007 a total of 73 does were collected from the study site. Data/samples collected from harvested does included date of kill, age of doe, ovaries, and the number, sex, and crown-rump measurements of fetuses present. Analysis of conception dates indicated that the pre-regulation breeding chronology was similar to the 1990?s data. The documentation of post-regulation breeding chronology began in 2011 with the collection of 100 adult does from the DCNF and some adjacent private properties. Analysis of conception dates indicated that breeding activity peaked earlier in the breeding season than that observed in both the 1990s data and the pre-regulation baseline data. The data also indicated a better defined peak in breeding activity when compared to the previous data sets. This preliminary data suggests that antler restriction regulations may be positively influencing breeding chronology. However, it is difficult to ascertain if the antler restrictions were solely responsible for the differences. Additional data will be collected in 2016.
1:20 pm - 1:40 pm
Biomass and Deer Forage Response to Intercropping Switchgrass as Bioenergy Feedstock in Mississippi
Bradley R. Wheat, Zachary G. Loman, Samuel K. Riffell & Steve Demarais, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture, Mississippi State University; Darren A. Miller, Weyerhaeuser Company
Intercropping switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) in recently established pine (Pinus taeda) plantations is a novel practice to generate lignocellulosic feedstocks for biofuels or co-firing. Because of ecological and economic importance of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), we investigated deer forage response to site preparation for intercropping on land owned and managed by Weyerhaeuser Company in Kemper County, MS. We sampled six pine stands in a randomized block design using 10-ha experimental plots of traditional pine and switchgrass intercropped established by Weyerhaeuser and Catchlight Energy LLC. We estimated biomass (kg/ha) of plant functional guilds and deer forages in July 2011 and 2012. Total biomass for traditional pine and switchgrass intercropped averaged 796 and 544 kg/ha in year one, respectively and 2193 and 1198 kg/ha in year two, respectively. Total biomass, biomass of graminoids, legumes, and vines were greater (p<0.10) on traditional pine versus intercropped by year two. Biomass of moderate-use deer forages for traditional pine and switchgrass intercropped averaged 112 and 62 kg/ha in year one, respectively and 321 and 204 kg/ha in year two, respectively. Biomass of high-use deer forages for traditional pine and switchgrass intercropped averaged 477 and 330 kg/ha in year one, respectively and 952 and 559 kg/ha in year two, respectively. Both moderate-use and high-use deer forage biomass was greater on traditional pine versus intercropped by year two. Establishment effects of intercropping may temporarily reduce biomass of deer forage, but post-establishment effects are unknown and should be further investigated.
1:40 pm - 2:00 pm
Bait Comparison for Estimating White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) Parameters with Infrared-triggered Cameras
Leah L. Dale, Department of Natural Resources Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University; Adam Gourley, Range Research Station, Oklahoma State University; R. Dwayne Elmore, Department of Natural Resources Ecology and Management, Oklahoma State University
Reliable estimates for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) including fawn production, adult sex ratio, and population size are critical to making appropriate management and harvest decisions (Jacobson et al., 1997). Population estimates derived from infrared triggered camera surveys at the Cross Timbers Experimental Range in Payne County, Oklahoma were compared for 2 bait types, milo and corn, in December 2010 and 2011. Data from feed stations yielded inconsistent sex and recruitment ratios resulting in differing population estimates. The differences in sex and recruitment ratios between the two bait types indicate unequal detectability among sex and age classes, introducing bias and reducing confidence in parameter estimates. Further, visitation to baited infrared trail cameras (ITCs) by non-target animals was significantly lower for milo than for corn [t(19) = -2.01, p = 0.06], resulting in a potential for reduced survey costs. Managers should recognize bait type as an influential factor when estimating population parameters of free-ranging white tailed deer from infrared triggered camera surveys.
2:00 pm - 2:20 pm
A Comparative Study on the Effectiveness of Fixed Blade and Mechanical Broadheads
M. Andy Pedersen, Nanjemoy, MD (retired); Seth M. Berry, Natural Resources Office, Naval Support Facility Indian Head; Jeffery C. Bossart, Environmental Program Manager, Naval Support Activity South Potomac, Naval Support Facility Indian Head
We evaluated the performance metrics of bowhunters who hunted with either compound bows or crossbows, and used either fixed blade or mechanical broadheads to harvest white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Our retrospective study relied on the daily reports submitted by the 209 bowhunters who participated in part with the monitored hunting program at the Naval Support Facility Indian Head, at Indian Head, Maryland. Bowhunters were required to pass the International Bowhunter Education Program and an annual pre-season shooting proficiency test. Bowhunters hit 90.4% (1020 of 1128) of the deer they shot at over the 1994 – 2012 hunting seasons. We did not find any significant differences in shot accuracy for the stratified choices of bow type and broadhead. Bowhunters recovered 83.6% (1083 of 1296) of the deer they hit over the 1989 - 2012 hunting seasons. The choice of compound bow or crossbow did not affect the deer recovery rates of hunters. However, deer recovery rates were affected by the type of broadhead that bowhunters used. Bowhunters recovered 90.9% (209 of 230) of the deer they hit with mechanical broadheads vs. 82% (874 of 1066) of the deer they hit with fixed blade broadheads. We concluded that the use of mechanical broadheads improved the deer recovery rates for both compound bow users and crossbow users over their counterparts who had used fixed blade broadheads.
2:20 pm - 2:40 pm
Evaluating Poaching Deterrents in the Southeast
Jessica E. Mayer, North Carolina State University, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management; Tasha L. King, North Carolina State University, Forestry and Environmental Resources; Birendra KC, North Carolina State University, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management; Bryan Will, North Carolina State University,Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Program; M. Nils Peterson North Carolina State University, Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Program
The illegal taking of wildlife (poaching) by hunters and anglers damages natural resources and negatively impacts both consumptive and non-consumptive wildlife users. This study explored deterrents to rule-breaking rooted in normative and traditional regulatory models, and evaluated factors influencing legitimacy of regulations. Hunters and anglers in North Carolina (n=60) who had broken regulations were asked to rate the importance of poaching deterrents including sanctions, enforcement and peer pressure. Respondents rated the known presence of game wardens as the most effective deterrent to poaching. Respondents regarded regulations intended to promote wildlife conservation as the most legitimate, and promoting fair chase and humane treatment of animals as among the least legitimate justifications for regulations. Our findings highlight the importance of visible law enforcement, large penalties, and forming a clear nexus between regulations and sustainable game populations. Similarly there is a need to frame fair chase and humane treatment of animals as legitimate reasons for regulations.
2:40 pm - 3:00 pm
OPEN
BREAK
3:20 pm - 3:40 pm
Effects of Opportunistic Shooting on Trap Visitation by Wild Pigs
Lindsey M. Phillips, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University; Mark D. Smith, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University; Dana K. Johnson, USDA Wildlife Services-Alabama, Auburn University
Although lethal removal by trapping is oftentimes the most cost- and time-effective means for removing wild pigs (Sus scrofa), many landowners and natural resource professionals implement non-trapping techniques such as opportunistic shooting to further enhance removal rates. However, these non-trapping techniques (hereafter disturbance) may alter the behavior of wild pigs leading to reduced trapping success. Our objective was to provide a preliminary assessment of the effects of disturbance on wild pig visitation to traps. During the summer of 2012, we monitored trap visitation of wild pigs using game cameras at 18 corral traps on 6 study sites in Alabama. We conditioned 3-4 sounders at each study site to freely enter and leave traps and used game cameras to monitor trap visits. We then implemented combinations of disturbance for 3-5 days on 3 study sites while continually monitoring pig visitation to traps on all 6 study sites. We used a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design to test for interaction effects among the visitation metrics between treatment and control sites before and after disturbance. Total number of days (P=0.349) and total number of visits (P=0.130) 1-week before and after disturbance on treatment and control sites did not differ; however, total visit duration differed before and after disturbance on treatment and control sites (P=0.038), demonstrating a change in pig behavior in response to disturbance. Within the context of one year of data, we suggest non-trapping techniques be implemented cautiously, and strategically, when conducting wild pig removal as these techniques may reduce overall trapping success.
3:40 pm - 4:00 pm
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies for Feral Hog Control
Rod Pinkston, JAGER PRO Hog Control Systems
In October 2011, the River Valley Regional Commission submitted a 319(h) Clean Water Act grant application to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) with efforts to address the fecal coliform levels in Pennahatchee Creek (Dooly County, Georgia). It was the overall consensus of the stakeholders that feral hogs were the major source of the pollutant. After one year of targeted watershed monitoring, the source was tracked to an isolated area within the watershed. A private hog control company will remove the total population of feral hogs within the 4,000+ acre target area by removing entire sounders at one time. This innovative approach uses methods and technology which ensures removal of each family member is accomplished to prevent future reproduction and education of the animals.
The Integrated Wildlife Damage Management (IWDM) model currently used by academia and government agencies for feral hogs only focuses on reducing damage; not their populations. The IWDM model balances concerns about the humane treatment of wildlife, societal values and legal limitations. This is noble when applied to wildlife species, but feral pigs are NOT wildlife. They are an invasive species and an agricultural pest producing 1.5 billion dollars in annual U.S. crop damage. The best model for feral hogs is the same approach used on termites, rats and cockroaches which is Integrated Pest Management (IPM). These methods and technologies focus on preventing reproduction of the species by eliminating the entire family group. This presentation will provide detailed results and video documentation of feral hog IPM strategies for the first half of the 18-month removal project.
4:00 pm - 4:20 pm
Overview of the Chesapeake Bay Nutria Project
Margaret Pepper, USDA Wildlife Services; Steve Kendrot, USDA Wildlife Services; Robert Colona, United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Nutria (Myocaster coypus), an invasive non-native South American rodent was introduced to Dorchester County, Maryland in the early 1940?s. These large, semi-aquatic animals have since become firmly established and expanded their range; correspondingly destroying coastal wetlands, and resulting in negative environmental and economic impacts within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Research conducted in the mid-1990s documented a causal relationship between marsh loss and nutria populations, and provided the impetus for passage of the Nutria Control and Eradication Act of 2003. A partnership of Federal, state, and private organizations then joined together to form the Nutria Control Partnership, later renamed Chesapeake Bay Nutria Eradication Project, and determined the feasibility of nutria eradication. In 2002 the systematic removal of nutria from Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding areas was initiated. The Project expanded operations to adjacent counties after nutria were virtually eliminated from southern Dorchester County in 2006. Since then, nutria have been removed from 160,000 acres in five Maryland counties thus allowing the protection and/or recovery of large expanses of wetlands. Efforts to determine the distribution of nutria on the Delmarva Peninsula have recently led to the identification of populations in Delaware and the eastern shore of Virginia. Currently a systematic plan to remove remaining Delmarva populations is underway.
4:20 pm - 4:40 pm
A Survey to Estimate Population Distribution of and Damage Caused by Feral Swine in Tennessee
W. Ryan Jerrolds, University of Tennessee at Martin, Department of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources; Eric C. Pelren, University of Tennessee at Martin, Department of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources; Barbara A. Darroch, University of Tennessee at Martin, Department of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources; R. Gray Anderson, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency
Feral swine (Sus scrofa) cause extensive damage to commercial agriculture, wildlife, and personal property throughout a growing number of states. There is a need to quantify the location and type of this damage in Tennessee. We surveyed four groups to identify how feral swine populations have dispersed across Tennessee and identify what type of damage they cause. Farm Bureau County Presidents, University of Tennessee Extension Agents, Natural Resources Conservation Service District Conservationists, and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency Wildlife Officers were surveyed in each of the 95 Tennessee counties to identify counties that host feral swine populations and categorize the damage they cause. Results indicated that feral swine have become widespread throughout the state of Tennessee with reported populations in 89 of the 95 Tennessee counties. Although 35 counties (37%) reported less than five total complaints of damage caused by feral swine, 39 counties (41%) indicated that complaints occurred within the last five years (2008-2012). Additional studies are needed to further quantify expansion of feral swine populations and damage caused by feral swine.
4:40 pm - 5:00 pm
Chesapeake Bay Nutria Eradication Project: Methods and devices for detecting Nutria (Myocastor coypus)
Margaret Pepper, USDA Wildlife Services; Steve Kendrot, USDA Wildlife Services; Robert Colona, United States Fish and Wildlife Service
The Chesapeake Bay Nutria Eradication Program was initiated in 2002 with the stated goal of eradicating nutria (Myocastor coypus) from Maryland. The Project has since expanded its operations and responsibilities to include the entire Delmarva Peninsula. A critical component of any successful eradication program is the ability to detect individuals when population densities are low. Additionally, effective monitoring of previously trapped areas requires discovery and removal of any residual animals before populations can become reestablished. We present several observer-based and device-based methods that we have developed for detecting nutria including: shoreline surveys, hair snares, detection rafts/platforms, detector dogs, lure development and remote triggered cameras. We discuss the need for evaluating method specific probabilities of detection and offer suggestions for reducing the likelihood of failing to detect nutria when they are present.