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TWS-WS 2018 Annual Meetingtws-west.org/events/2018/2018_abstracts_by_presenter.pdfThe Amargosa vole...
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TWS-WS
2018 Annual Meeting
ABSTRACTS
Abstracts sorted by Presenter’s last name
SPATIAL FORAGING PATTERNS OF NORTH AMERICAN PORCUPINES IN COASTAL DUNE HABITATS
Bayan W Ahmed; Humboldt State University; 2984 Mack Rd. Apt. C, Arcata, CA, 95521; 9167436600;
The foraging activities of North American porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) are known to have strong effects on the
regeneration of tree species within forested systems. Bark stripping often results in tree death, affecting forest
structure and tree recruitment. However, little is known about how porcupines interact with and potentially shape
coastal dune habitats. Therefore, I am conducting a study that describes the spatial foraging patterns of North
American porcupines in Tolowa Dunes State Park in Crescent City, California, USA. Since saplings offer high quality
forage and are more likely to grow outside and along the edges of patches, I expect evidence of bark foraging and
tree death to be concentrated between and at the edges of conifer patches. Furthermore, because porcupines are
arboreal species that prefer to forage in canopies, I expect foraged trees to have canopies lower to the ground
when compared to un-foraged trees. Movement data of porcupines may be used for further analysis of the spatial
relationship between areas of high use by porcupines and areas of high conifer damage. Study in Progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
MIGRATION AND WINTERING AREAS USED BY SWAINSON'S HAWKS BREEDING IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY OF
CALIFORNIA
Daniel A Airola; Northwest Hydraulic Consultants; 2600 Capitol Ave Suite 140, Sacramento, CA, 95816; 916-494-
1283; [email protected]; Richard Anderson, James A. Estep, Dave Krolick
We used satellite telemetry to assess migration and wintering patterns of Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) that
breed in California's Central Valley (CV). We tracked 20 birds captured on breeding sites near Sacramento for a
total of 30 fall and 31 spring migration trips and 28 winter seasons. CV hawks wintered in four regions spread
across 7,200 square kilometers: western Mexico (25%), Central America (15%), northern South America (40%), and
central South America (20%). Hawks wintering in southern locations spent more time migrating, arrived later at
wintering areas, departed earlier for spring migration, and arrived later at breeding areas. During fall migration,
hawks spent an average of 55 days at stopover locations, mainly in four areas: San Joaquin Valley, Sonoran Desert,
northwest coastal Mexico, and central-western Mexico. Spring migration was much more direct, with an average of
only three days of stopover. Most stopover and wintering areas were agricultural lands. Results suggest a recent
and ongoing shift in wintering areas to more northern agricultural lands. The migration routes and wintering areas
of CV hawks differ from, and are more diverse than, those of the much larger interior North American Swainson's
hawk population.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds I
LITTER TRANSLOCATIONS BY YELLOW-BELLIED MARMOTS, MARMOTA FLAVIVENTRIS
Jaclyn R Aliperti; University of California, Davis; 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616; 5169021860;
[email protected]; Aviva, J, Rossi, Kenneth, B, Armitage
Natal burrow selection is an important decision for ground-dwelling squirrels, as burrows provide shelter from
abiotic conditions such as inclement weather, and biotic conditions such as predators. If conditions surrounding a
natal burrow become risky or unsuitable, squirrels are known to move their litters to a different burrow. For
example, squirrels may translocate their litters when faced with the threat of infanticide, predation, or parasite
infestation. However, detailed accounts of litter translocation events are uncommon due to the infeasibility of
predicting when and where translocations will take place. Furthermore, factors contributing to litter translocations
likely differ among species that vary in life history characteristics such as sociality. We provide the first
documentation of natal burrow translocation by a female yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris), at the
Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Gothic, Colorado, and we draw on 30 years of unpublished records of
litter translocations in this study system to better understand the causes and consequences of litter translocations
in this species.
Poster Session
INSIGHT INTO THE BIOLOGY, CAPTIVE MANAGEMENT, AND CONSERVATION OF THE ENDANGERED AMARGOSA
VOLE (MICROTUS CALIFORNICUS SCIRPENSIS)
Nora E Allan; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; UC Davis; 1320D Tupper Hall, University of California,
Davis, Davis, CA, 95616; 5307549740; [email protected]; Janet Foley, Deana Clifford, Risa Pesapane
The Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis) is a highly endangered rodent endemic to small patches of
marsh habitat near Tecopa in Inyo County, California. Although it has survived in a naturally fragmented ecosystem
for thousands of years, climate change and upstream overuse have reduced habitat and further isolated the
species. Evidence suggests only 500 individuals still exist in the wild. As part of a multi-party conservation effort to
recover the species, we established a captive breeding population in 2014 to serve as an insurance colony, increase
our knowledge about Amargosa vole biology, and provide individuals for release as restored habitat becomes
available. Captive animals help answer questions about biology and behavior that are challenging to investigate in
the wild. Tracking development benchmarks provides a guide for accurately aging wild-caught individuals.
Observations about aggression inform decisions during captive-release attempts. Identifying common diseases
determines whether Amargosa voles may be more susceptible to certain pathogens. Investigating dietary
preferences and gut microbiomes help determine what resources are necessary for vole growth and survival. By
conducting applied research in captivity, we can continuously improve our captive management and use our
insights from the colony to benefit in situ Amargosa vole conservation efforts.
Endangered Species Recovery
SUNBATHERS, SNOWY PLOVERS, AND SEALS: NORTHERN ELEPHANT SEAL COLONY GROWTH AT POINT REYES,
CALIFORNIA, 1981-2017
Sarah G Allen; National Park Service; c/o Point Reyes National Seashore, Point Reyes Station, CA, 94956; 510-541-
4241; [email protected]; Sarah Codde, Ben Becker
Species recovery efforts for marine animals are complex and often ineffective, as supported in part by the limited
number of species that have been delisted over the past several decades. Among pinnipeds, though, researchers
have documented the unparalleled recovery of northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris), with little active
management beyond protecting terrestrial sites. At Point Reyes, California, recovery over the past 35 years has
varied from an average annual growth rate of 35% (1981-1995) to around 7% (1995-2017). The Point Reyes
National Seashore diligently protects terrestrial habitats where seals breed, molt, and rest. The colony has
expanded from a remote cliff-backed beach to adjacent recreational beaches spanning nearly 20 kilometers.
Recovery, though, has been uneven, with elevated mortality events associated with high rainfall and El Nino
Southern Oscillation (ENSO) years and with sub-site differences in annual growth rates. The Seashore is now
challenged with how and where to facilitate further potential expansion into sensitive coastal dune habitats where
federally listed species such as snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus) occur and into high recreational use areas where
human interactions are increasing.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals I
USING 20 YEARS OF CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDER SURVEY DATA TO DETERMINE APPROPRIATE
MONITORING DURATION PERIODS
Jeff A Alvarez; The Wildlife Project; 774 5th Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95818; 916-441-0322;
Complete, long-term data sets, focused on a single species, and conducted with the involvement of a single
individual, are very rare. Although 20 years of data collected on California tiger salamander presence and
reproduction was not intended to be used to determine appropriate monitoring duration periods, this robust data
set allows for detailed analysis. These data were grouped in 16 sequential 5-year monitoring periods and 11
sequential 10-year monitoring periods. This type of analysis showed that each different monitoring period
indicated a different degree of decline, perceived increase, or relative stability. A plurality of the monitoring
windows indicated that the population was in decline. However, the 20-year monitoring window showed that the
population was stable or slightly increasing. These data suggest that longer monitoring periods provide a more
accurate representation of the overall population trends in California tiger salamanders in Central California.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I
FIFTEEN MINUTES OF FAME FOR MONK SEALS: TURNING A COMMUNICATIONS CHALLENGE INTO A UNIQUE
OPPORTUNITY
Angela Amlin; NOAA-NMFS; 45-342 Lilipuna Road #309, Kaneohe, HI, 96744; 805-252-3061;
[email protected]; Aliza Milette-Winfree
Education and outreach are critical components of endangered species recovery efforts. Yet finding effective and
engaging ways to communicate science and conservation can be challenging. In June 2017, a Hawaiian monk seal
pup was born on Kaimana Beach. This was the first documented monk seal birth in Waikiki, one of the most
populated areas in Hawaii. Managers and scientists were suddenly faced with an unprecedented level of public
interest in these animals. The need to communicate human and seal safety to a massive number of beachgoers
became critical as the public attempted to observe the seals up close and swim near the protective mother. With
help from partners, personnel were on site sunrise to sunset educating the public about monk seal ecology and
how to avoid harmful human-seal interactions. In another first, a local news outlet began broadcasting live, round-
the-clock webcam footage of the seals. By taking advantage of social media platforms such as live-streamed
"Pupdates," where National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration staff engaged in question and answer
sessions with thousands of viewers globally, this challenging situation became a powerful opportunity to reach a
broad audience. The result was a new community of stewards championing the recovery of the Hawaiian monk
seal.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences
TWENTY YEARS OF EFFORTS TO PROTECT WILDLIFE OF THE SANTA CLARA RIVER: SUCCESS!
Ileene Anderson; Center for Biological Diversity; 660 Figueroa St., #1000, Los Angeles, CA, 90017; 323-654-5943;
[email protected]; John Buse, Aruna Prabhala
The Newhall Ranch is a large residential and commercial development along six miles of the Santa Clara River in Los
Angeles County, California. The development, first proposed in the 1980s, threatened to impact the California fully
protected and federally and state-listed as endangered unarmored threespine stickleback, the federally listed as
threatened arroyo toad, critical habitat for the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher, and other rare species.
Subsequent surveys identified the recently rediscovered and now state-listed as endangered San Fernando Valley
spineflower, the newly discovered and described Newhall sunflower, and currently undescribed springsnails
present on the proposed project site. A coalition of conservation organizations challenged the project over the
years, ultimately prevailing at the California Supreme Court on rare species and greenhouse gas claims. While the
developer moved forward to address the issues in the successful court challenge, it also initiated negotiations with
the conservation organizations that ultimately resulted in a historic settlement. The settlement (1) ensures
development redesign to minimize impacts to the unarmored threespine stickleback and enhance protections for
the plants and snails, (2) conserves over 10,000 acres of habitat including river floodplain, (3) provides $25 million
dedicated to conservation of the Santa Clara River and watershed, and (4) guarantees a landmark greenhouse gas
"net zero" emissions project.
Urban Wildlife Management
PREDICTED HABITAT SELECTION OF THE INVASIVE ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET IN BAKERSFIELD, CA
Tina C Arthur; Humboldt State University; 335 Laurel Dr, Arcata, CA, 95521; 831 359 3713; [email protected];
Multiple parrot species have colonized North American cities as escapees or intentional releases. Species such as
the invasive rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri) has become increasingly more common in U.S. cities, but
information about their survival and potential negative impacts are yet to be fully understood. To predict where
rose-ringed parakeets might expand I created a habitat suitability model for Bakersfield, California. I selected layers
from NLCD for Kern County, CA based on criteria set from studies that researched invasive colonies outside of the
U.S. (Hardy 1973, Khan et al. 2004, Strubbe and Matthysen 2008). To select areas of importance, the tool
"Weighted Overlay" was used to reclassify layers based on the most suitable areas to the least. To compare
accuracy of the model, sightings from eBird were used to compare against the predicted suitability. Life history
traits such as survival rate, foraging methods, breeding habitats, and abundance are needed to better analyze how
this species is utilizing habitat in Bakersfield and how they may pose a threat to native species. Expanding this
model to areas such as Los Angeles, CA would also assist in understanding the extent of this species potential
range.
Poster Session Student Paper
PRESENCE AND PREVALENCE OF HAEMOPROTEUS IN TWO HUMMINGBIRD SPECIES
Hanna E Baek; San Francisco State University; 285 Buckingham Way Apt #905, San Francisco, CA, 91326; 818-577-
6365; [email protected]; Ravinder Sehgal, Lisa Tell
Avian disease presence and prevalence in hummingbirds is severely understudied despite the strong presence of
hummingbirds in California. What is the estimated impact of disease on hummingbirds? This research is focusing
on haemosporidian parasites in the genus Haemoproteus, which are intracellular parasites that infect erythrocytes.
These parasites are transmitted by biting midges. PCR analysis of blood samples, collected using Nobuto strips, of
two species of hummingbird: the Rufous hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) and Allen's hummingbird (Selasphorus
sasin) is ongoing. Results are currently pending. The project's goal is to estimate the prevalence of these blood
parasites in these two species of hummingbird as well as to get a better idea of the
particular Haemoproteus species infecting hummingbirds.
Poster Session Student Paper
DYNAMIC SURFACE WATER DISTRIBUTIONS MEDIATE MOVEMENTS OF NON-BREEDING SHOREBIRDS IN THE
CENTRAL VALLEY OF CALIFORNIA
Blake Barbaree; Point Blue Conservation Science; 3820 Cypress Drive #11, Petaluma, CA, 94954; 5417402337;
[email protected]; Matthew E. Reiter, Catherine M. Hickey, Gary W. Page, Nathan K. Elliot, Danica Shaffer-
Smith, Mark D. Reynolds
Movements by migratory shorebirds are inherently linked to dynamic water distributions. Characterizing this
relationship when shorebirds are not breeding or migrating can highlight effects of landscape management
strategies on shorebird populations as well as provide simple guidelines for conservation solutions that benefit
people and wetland-dependent wildlife. We tracked radio-tagged dunlin (Calidris alpina) and long-billed
dowitchers (Limnodromus scolopaceus) in the Central Valley of California to compare movements between
shorebirds wintering in regions with differing amounts and configurations of water on the landscape and
investigated associations between movements and variability in landscape structure at multiple temporal and
spatial scales. Shorebirds using a region with a widespread but highly variable water distribution moved between
regions more often and had longer movements on average than those wintering in a region characterized by a
single, mostly contiguous wetland complex with relatively stable landscape structure. Longer movements were
associated with decreasing average water availability on the landscape as well as increasing patch size and
decreasing aggregation of reliable surface water. Humans can mediate the energetically costly movements of
shorebirds by reliably flooding individual wetlands and agricultural lands and limiting variability in the configuration
of open water. The creation, restoration, and maintenance of flooded wetlands and agricultural lands will have
high conservation value, particularly during March and April in the Central Valley, along likely flight corridors, in
locations with frequent past flooding events, and areas that increase the spatial aggregation of surface water.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III
STATUS OF FISHER POPULATIONS IN OREGON
Brent Barry; Oregon State University; 104 Nash Hall, 2820 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331; 8479973461;
[email protected]; Katie Moriarty, Taal Levi, David Green
Fishers (Pekania pennanti) are medium sized mustelids endemic to North America. Two fisher populations persist
in Oregon: an indigenous population in southwestern Oregon and a reintroduced population in the southern
Cascades. Despite its candidacy for listing under the Endangered Species Act, current information on fisher
populations in Oregon is scarce. We conducted surveys using motion-activated cameras and scat detecting dogs to
assess the distribution and detectability of fishers with an occupancy modeling framework. To quantify the
potential for the reintroduced population to expand, we used a spatially explicit reaction-diffusion equation. We
deployed >2000 camera survey stations equating to >500 sample units operational for >35 and >60 days during
winter and summer, respectively, collecting >4 million photographs (surveys 2015-2017, still in progress). Detection
dog teams surveyed >90 sample units. We detected fishers at 67 unique sample units and 121 individual survey
stations, confirming the presence of the indigenous and introduced populations. The southern Cascades
reintroduced population appears to have shifted or contracted. Population extent was less than expected, except
under our slowest growth model. We confirmed a larger indigenous population, but also with range reductions.
There was no evidence of population expansion into historically occupied forests despite predicted habitat
suitability.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II Student Paper
USING AN OCCUPANCY MODEL TO DEVELOP AN EFFICIENT SAMPLING DESIGN FOR POPULATION ESTIMATION OF
TULE ELK USING FECAL DNA IN COLUSA AND LAKE COUNTIES, CALIFORNIA
Tom Batter; UC Davis; 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA, 95616; 4026302778; [email protected]; Joshua P. Bush, Dr.
Ben N. Sacks
Tule elk (Cervus elaphus nannodes) in Colusa and Lake Counties utilize habitats that are difficult to accurately
survey through site-based methods and their abundance is unknown. We designed a survey method to collect fecal
pellets for DNA-based monitoring, a method found to be effective for other ungulates. We used 1,207 elk-presence
locations to develop a MaxEnt model, which included vegetation type, vegetation cover, and mean diurnal
temperature range. We tested the model with independent data from GPS-collared elk (AUC = 0.885), then with
occupancy surveys on the Cache Creek herd. We employed 6-km triangle transects and 4.5-km linear transects in
33 random 2-km2 grid cells, 24 in predicted-presence habitat, and 9 in predicted-absence habitat. We documented
elk presence using fecal pellets and other elk sign at 92% (22 of 24) of the predicted presence cells and 44% (4 of 9)
of the predicted absence cells. Non-detection in predicted-presence cells coincided with high-intensity agriculture
(n = 2). Detections in predicted-absence cells were typically <0.5-km from a predicted presence location. Our use of
the habitat model to stratify the landscape increased our survey efficiency, resulting in a 76% reduction of the
landscape surveyed relative to a random survey.
Poster Session Student Paper
ASSESSING BIOTIC AND ABIOTIC LIMITS TO SPECIES DISTRIBUTION UNDER CLIMATE CHANGE AND COMPARING
NICHE OVERLAP OF ISOLATED POPULATIONS OF AN ENDANGERED RODENT
Ivy V Widick; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St., Arcata, CA, 95521; 8122022000;
[email protected]; William T. Bean
The dominant role of climate in species distribution modeling is supported by a large body of literature and is often
considered the single most important factor in limiting species' ranges. Other factors, such as biotic interactions,
are often assumed to be included via abiotic proxies. However, through climate change, these relationships could
be decoupled or species could adapt to novel environments, leaving gaps in predicted future niches. To test the
utility of including such factors, I modeled the distributions of two isolated populations of the endangered giant
kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens) and local California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), a potential novel
competitor. Modeling current and future distributions of both species identified potential niche overlap. I
predicted that modeling the populations separately would improve the predictive accuracy of the models, as they
have adapted over time to altered climatic regimes. Niche overlap between the populations was low, indicating
that they experience slightly different climatic regimes. Thus, model accuracy would improve with population-level
modeling. Future projections of range are dependent on model scope, but retractions in currently occupied areas
will occur. We can use these future range estimates to protect critical habitat from further development, in hopes
that we can protect the giant kangaroo rat within an endangered ecosystem.
Wildlife and Climate Change
TWENTY YEARS OF HARBOR SEAL POPULATION DYNAMICS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Benjamin H Becker; Point Reyes National Seashore; 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, CA, 94956; 415-464-
5187; [email protected]; Sarah A Codde, Sarah G Allen
Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii) are the most abundant and only year-round resident pinniped in the
National Parks of the San Francisco Bay Area, California. Seals haul out, breed, and pup at 5 major (>400 seals) and
3 minor (<200 seals) colonies along the coastlines of Point Reyes National Seashore and Golden Gate National
Recreation Area. During the 1970s-1990s, after passage of the 1972 Marine Mammal Protection act, populations
grew rapidly and logistically (Sydeman and Allen 1999). However, from the late 1990s to present, colony
attendance and pup production has fluctuated overall and within colonies. We investigated (1) oceanographic,
geomorphological, predatory, and anthropogenic factors associated with the observed population dynamics, (2)
predicted future population growth, and (3) assessed whether individual colonies operate in isolation or comprise
a larger regional population.Â
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals I
DEVELOPING AN EFFICIENT ENVIRONMENTAL DNA SAMPLING PROTOCOL FOR AQUATIC AMPHIBIANS
Mallory E Bedwell; 404 Heald Hall, Pullman, WA, 99164; 5593600871; [email protected]; Caren S
Goldberg
Capturing environmental deoxyribonucleic acid (eDNA), or genetic material shed into water, could help overcome
the challenge of determining the presence of species that are difficult to find using traditional surveys. To
determine the most effective eDNA sampling protocol in a stream system, we conducted a survey for two hard-to-
find species, the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae) and the foothill yellow-legged frog (R. boylii). We
collected samples at 100-meter intervals in two different volumes at seven points along several streams in Plumas
National Forest in California. We collected samples at four time points over the summer of 2016 using single-use
funnels with 0.45-micrometer filters and a vacuum pump for a total of 286 eDNA samples. We analyzed samples in
triplicate using species-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays we developed and validated.
Detection results were analyzed using generalized linear mixed effect models using a binomial response. Filtering
double the volume of water (2 liters) increased odds of detection five times and sampling later in the season
increased odds of detection by 1.016 per day. Over a 100-meter distance, the number of wells with a positive
eDNA signal decreased by 28%, indicating that sampling at close intervals is important for detecting these secretive
amphibians.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management Student Paper
SUMMER MOVEMENT PATTERNS AND FOURTH ORDER HABITAT SELECTION OF NORTH AMERICAN PORCUPINES
(ERETHIZON DORSATUM) IN A COASTAL DUNE SYSTEM
Pairsa N Belamaric; Humboldt State University; 1202 buttermilk lane, Arcata, CA, 95521; 2067184948;
[email protected]; William T. Bean, Cara L. Appel
Movement decisions made by North American porcupines (Erethizon dorsatum) are driven by the distribution of
seasonally important dietary resources and perceived risk of predation. However, during the summer of 2015, we
observed porcupines making lengthy trips away from areas of high quality forage to visit areas typically used only
during winter, where available forage is highly defended and nutritionally depleted. Because winter is a nutritional
bottleneck for porcupines, we suspect these animals are exhibiting a prospecting behavior within home ranges
during summer to inform the future selection of critical winter habitat components. To explore this idea, we fitted
five porcupines with very high frequency/global positioning system (VHF/GPS) collars and deployed 30 camera
traps under winter foraging trees during the summer of 2017 in Tolowa Dunes State Park in northwestern
California. Animals were tracked and located via radio telemetry to measure physical and chemical characteristics
of individual trees used by and available to porcupines during summer. Results from this study describe habitat
use, microhabitat selection, and movement patterns of porcupines in a coastal dune forest during the 2015 and
2017 summer seasons. Implications of summer movement patterns and predictions of winter foraging selection
will be discussed.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals I Student Paper
WE WANT A SHRUBBERY! WHY INVASIVE CHEATGRASS MAY BE RUINING THE GREAT BASIN DESERT FOR
REPTILES
Gareth D Blakemore; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N. Virginia St. (MS 0314), Reno, NV, 89557; (775)432-4792;
[email protected]; Kristina M. Bozanich, Dr. Christopher R. Feldman
In the Great Basin, invasion by cheatgrass has altered landscape structure and ecosystem function. By usurping
resources and modifying habitat, cheatgrass has caused dramatic reductions in plant and wildlife abundance and
diversity. Though this pattern of biodiversity loss is clear, the mechanisms and landscape scale implications remain
unknown. There is little information on whether cheatgrass impacts reptile communities. We hypothesize that loss
of shrub cover in cheatgrass dominated areas will leave fewer thermal microhabitats and temperature gradients
for reptiles to thermoregulate. To test this, we developed operative temperature models based on Sceloporus
occidentalis to deploy at paired sites (cheatgrass vs. native shrub habitat) in northwestern Nevada. Cheatgrass
dominated sites are, on average, significantly hotter than shrub sites. Reptiles in the Great Basin rely on shrub
cover to avoid critically hot temperatures, the loss of such refuges may result in temperatures restrictive for
normal activity. Cheatgrass habitat may be thermally unsuitable and represent habitat loss for reptiles. We have
identified a plausible mechanism of biodiversity loss due to cheatgrass invasion: modified temperature regimes
and loss of thermal microhabitats. Given that 10% of the Great Basin has converted to cheatgrass monocultures,
we expect significant regional declines in reptile abundance, diversity and connectivity.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II
TIME RELATED ALTERATIONS IN RESOURCE SELECTION OF DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP (OVIS CANADENSIS NELSONI)
Marcus E Blum; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N Virginia St, MS 186, Reno, NV, 89557; 9794503092;
[email protected]; Kelley M. Stewart, Mike Cox, Brian Wakeling
Understanding resource selection is essential for implementing management strategies that positively influence
the population dynamics of a species. Throughout the year, wildlife populations select resources that benefit
specific life history traits. Therefore, it is essential that biologists understand how species select resources
throughout the year and how much selection changes across these time periods. While seasonal habitat use is well
documented in desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni), there is limited information about the relationship
of selection and neonate age as well as how selection changes within commonly delineated seasons. To increase
understanding of sheep resource selection throughout the year, we captured and collared 30 adult female sheep
on Lone Mountain, Nevada, and translocated 15 of those to the Garfield Hills range. In addition to receiving collars,
all individuals were given vaginal implant transmitters to provide parturition timing information. Following
captures, we monitored parturition events, adult resource selection, and neonate survival. We used a machine
learning technique (random forest) to identify habitat selection throughout the year, including the selection of
resources associated with the presence of a neonate and as age of offspring progressed. Our results indicated that
adults shifted resource selection on a monthly basis.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals III Student Paper
VARIATION IN JUVENILE CHINOOK SALMON MACROINVERTEBRATE PREY IN THE SAN JOAQUIN RIVER
RESTORATION AREA; IMPLICATIONS FOR CARRYING CAPACITY AND RESTORATION SUCCESS
Karen Boortz; CSU Fresno; 2851 N Filbert Ave, Fresno, CA, 93727; 5597604557; [email protected]; Steve
Blumenshine
Ecological restoration and species recovery programs are complex undertakings often involving multiple
government agencies, non-government organizations, and academic groups working towards a common goal. An
example of this is the San Joaquin River Restoration Project (SJRRP), which was created to restore flows to the river
from Friant Dam to the confluence of the Merced River and reestablish a self-sustaining population of salmon. A
crucial part of this project is the assurance that there is adequate macroinvertebrate prey available for the juvenile
Chinook salmon during their freshwater growth stage. In order to meet the program's salmon population goals, a
multi-year study is underway to characterize the macroinvertebrate assemblage and food web in the rearing
habitat of the San Joaquin River in California's Central Valley. Results show a significant difference in
macroinvertebrate abundance between study locations signaling a difference in habitat quality for juvenile Chinook
salmon with possible sub-optimal conditions for growth. This study is part of a larger effort to characterize the
spatial and temporal variation in these properties and guidance for revision of restoration goals.
Poster Session Student Paper
GREATER SAGE-GROUSE CONSERVATION IN THE VYA REGION
Tim S Bowden; BLM; 602 Cressler Street, Cedarville, CA, 96104; 530-2792723; [email protected]; Andrew, A.,
Mueller, Elias, Flores
In 2015 the Bureau of Land Management amended Resource Management Plans across the western US to improve
conservation measures for greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). This shift in policy paved the way for
projects such as the multi-million dollar Vya greater sage-grouse habitat improvement project in northwestern
Nevada and northeastern California. This collaborative project with the Natural Resources Conservation Service,
Nevada Department of Wildlife, and private land owners has removed more than 10,000 acres of juniper, adjusted
grazing practices to improve a large brood-rearing meadow system, and is establishing protective enclosures
around springs used during late brood-rearing. Results of this effort are beginning to manifest with sage grouse
moving into recently cut areas that provide increased native grass and forb cover. Sage grouse movements and
population fitness are being monitored in partnership with Oregon State University with satellite collars being
deployed in 2017. In addition, 2017 marked the first year of an investigation into non-target impacts of juniper
removal - monitoring changes in insect, reptile, small mammal, bird, and bat populations - being conducted by
University of Nevada, Reno. Taken together, these efforts are providing for the persistence of this iconic species
and would not be possible without a proactive policy for conservation.
Poster Session
EVALUATING THE USE OF NON-INVASIVE GENETIC SPATIAL CAPTURE-RECAPTURE FOR ESTIMATING ELK
POPULATION DENSITY
Jennifer L Brazeal; One Shields Ave, Davis, CA, 95616; 5307547932; [email protected]; Cristen Langer,
Benjamin N. Sacks
Recently, the use of spatial capture-recapture models (SCR) to estimate wildlife population density has increased.
Non-invasive genetic sampling methods are particularly useful for obtaining sufficient sample sizes for SCR for
wide-ranging species. However, accuracy of SCR estimates for a given species is difficult to assess without
comparison to a known population number. In addition, current SCR models assume independence in animal
movement, an assumption that gregarious species (e.g., elk) violate. We used a tule elk (Cervus canadensis
nannodes) population of known size at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge to test this approach in summer 2016.
We collected 484 fecal samples, from which we extracted elk DNA, and genotyped them, identifying 71 of the 72
elk in the population. The SCR abundance estimate was 72.3 (SE = 1.4) elk. We then assessed the effects of
sampling effort and density on precision of estimates by subsampling. SCR results were robust to violations of the
assumption of independence of movement, producing unbiased estimates at multiple sampling efforts and elk
densities. We found that the number of pellets collected was a good predictor of precision and would be a useful
measure for attaining a desired level of precision in fecal DNA SCR studies.
Poster Session Student Paper
PELAGIC CORMORANT (PHALACROCORAX PELAGICUS) REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS IN HUMBOLDT COUNTY AND
THE NORTH COAST SEABIRD PROTECTION NETWORK
Shannon E Brinkman ; BLM Arcata Field Office; 1695 Heindon Road, Arcata, CA, 95521; (707) 825-2318;
[email protected]; Leisyka Parrott
Variation in reproductive success is widely measured in seabird biology in an effort to indicate changes in the
marine environment, or understand basic questions about ecology or conservation of seabirds. Trinidad in
Humboldt County, California is a regionally important area along the California coast for nesting and roosting
seabirds. Seabird monitoring efforts have increased in Trinidad, since 2014, in an effort to identify and monitor the
key seabird breeding colonies, including annual variation in seabird reproductive success. Specifically, a Pelagic
Cormorant (Phalacrocorax pelagicus) colony in Trinidad has been monitored annually, helping create a baseline for
seabird reproductive success in Humboldt County, while also documenting the variation in Pelagic Cormorant
reproductive success over a short period of time (2014-2017). The increased seabird monitoring in Trinidad is also
part of a larger effort, the North Coast Seabird Protection Network (NCSPN). The NCSPN was initiated by the Arcata
Field Office Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Humboldt State University (HSU), and focuses not only on
monitoring and research but also education and outreach. The NCSPN is an on-going program which aims to
protect, monitor, interpret and restore seabird populations along the north coast.
Poster Session
BATS AND MINE CLOSURES.
Patricia Brown; Brown-Berry Biological Consulting; 134 Eagle Vista, Bishop, CA, 93514; 760 920 3975;
Abandoned mines shelter bats and other wildlife. However, mines are often threatened with closure for human
safety and renewed mining in historic districts. Bat-compatible closures have been installed in thousands of mines
across North America to prevent human entry but allow bat entry. As white-nose syndrome (WNS) progresses
westward across the continent, protecting bat roosts can slow the spread via human transport of the deadly fungus
that causes WNS. If mines are to be permanently destroyed in renewed mining operations, bats should be evicted
at the appropriate season and replacement habitat should be installed with bat gates. The timing of surveys and
methods used influence the detectability of seasonal bat use of a mine. Many bat species use several roosts
throughout their annual cycle, as dictated by physiological and behavioral needs. When evaluating bat use of mines
recommended for closure, the goals should be to identify the most important mine roosts and avoid installing
incompatible closures that may cause roost abandonment. Not all types of mine closures are acceptable to all
species of bats at all times of year, and suitability may depend on colony size as well as closure size and design.
Some colonies do not accept corrugated culverts or even gates. After installing any bat-compatible closure, a
monitoring program should be implemented to assess its effectiveness.
Bat Mitigation
GENETIC SIGNATURES OF LOCAL ADAPTATION IN NATIVE DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP HERDS OF THE GREAT BASIN
Michael Buchalski; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; 1419 North Market Blvd., Suite #9, Sacramento, CA,
95834; 916 308 1385; [email protected]; Clinton Epps, Walter Boyce, Marjorie Matocq, Rachel
Crowhurst, Brandon Holton, Laura Thompson, Esther Rubin, James Cain
Desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) occupy a diversity of desert ecosystems throughout the
southwestern United States. Significant climatic differences among these desert ecosystems suggests the potential
for adaptation to local conditions in this taxon. We tested for signatures of local adaption using 2b-RAD reduced
representation genotyping in conjunction with high resolution climate data for 30 native populations of desert
bighorn sheep (291 individuals) distributed throughout much of its North American range. Population
differentiation and ecological association tests on 11,303 SNPs identified outlier loci with alleles private to the
Great Basin of California and Nevada. Private allele frequencies were correlated with higher elevation and lower
annual mean temperature; logistic regression, P < 0.001. Outlier loci mapped to a ~ 5 Mb sequence on
chromosome 8 of the domestic sheep genome (Oar v3.0) encompassing the EPH receptor A7 gene and six other
undescribed protein coding genes. Our data suggest the few remaining desert bighorn herds native to the Great
Basin may represent a unique ecotype and should be managed accordingly. Understanding the range of adaptive
genetic variation present within desert bighorn sheep may prove instrumental in predicting how this taxon might
respond to global climate change.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management
INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENTAL DNA SAMPLING INTO LONG-TERM MONITORING STRATEGIES: A CASE STUDY
FOR DETECTING RANA SIERRAE IN STREAMS
Holly M Burger; Stillwater Sciences; 2855 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA, 94702; 510-599-2355;
[email protected]; Christina Buck, Erik De Silva, Mallory Bedwell, Caren S. Goldberg, Andie Herman
Environmental DNA (eDNA) detection techniques are gaining popularity as a means of surveying for rare and often
cryptic amphibians. Land managers and regulatory agencies are beginning to request collection of these data as
part of routine biological surveys for long-term monitoring, such as on hydroelectric relicensing projects. We
present methods and results of an initial trial for one season of eDNA sampling efforts on stream reaches in the
Plumas National Forest, targeting the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (Rana sierrae), a federally endangered
species. We utilized both visual encounter surveys and eDNA riverine sampling to infer species presence/absence
on three high-gradient intermittent stream reaches. Results from eDNA sampling were consistent with lack of
detections in two reaches that were surveyed visually. At a third site, the species was detected visually but not with
eDNA in August, and with eDNA but not visual surveys in September. This highlights the importance of identifying
optimal methods for eDNA sampling based on site-specific environmental conditions, as well as the current
benefits of continued incorporation of traditional methods when making management recommendations that may
affect amphibian habitat.
Poster Session
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: WHERE BAT ROOSTS ARE INSTALLED CAN BE AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN
MITIGATING TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS.
Jill M Carpenter; LSA Associates, Inc.; 20 Executive Park, Suite 200, Irvine, CA, 92614; 9493376103;
Efforts to minimize and mitigate impacts to bats from bridge widening, seismic retrofit, and replacement projects
include creating replacement roosts. While several replacement roost designs have been implemented
successfully, few monitoring studies have been conducted to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of these designs.
For this project, two types of roost structures were installed as mitigation at a bridge complex spanning the Santa
Ana River in southern California. Temperature data loggers were installed in a representative sampling of these
structures. Regular surveys were performed from March 2015 to August 2017 to determine whether roost
structure design or location affected roost temperature and bat occupancy. The results of this study are consistent
with other studies showing that thermal stability and high temperatures are important co-factors in maternity-
season roost selection. However, data indicate that bats preferred roosts with wider temperature fluctuations
during fall and winter, and the thermal stability of a roost structure was correlated more with the location of that
roost than with its design. Consequently, site selection on a bridge may be an important factor to consider when
mitigating for a maternity roost versus a migratory or overwintering roost.
Bat Mitigation
HOW DOES LANDSCAPE COMPOSITION AFFECT FORGING PATTERNS OF BARN OWLS (TYTO ALBA) IN AN URBAN-
AGRICULTURAL SETTING OF CALIFORNIA?
Xeronimo A Castaneda; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 650-248-1668;
[email protected]; Matthew D. Johnson
Large-scale conversion of natural land to agriculture threatens wildlife and can diminish ecosystem services
provided by nature. Understanding how wildlife can provision ecosystem services may incentivize wildlife
conservation in agricultural landscapes. Attracting barn owls (Tyto alba) to nest on farms for pest management has
been documented worldwide but has not been thoroughly evaluated in vineyard agroecosystems. Napa Valley,
California is a renowned wine-grape growing region where viticulturists encourage barn owl occupancy to help
minimize plant damage from pocket gophers (Thomomys bottae) and voles (Microtus californicus). Our study aims
to establish a basis for revealing the abilities of a predator to provide an ecosystem service to farmers by modeling
space and time use of selected habitats. From location data obtained of nesting owls we constructed intensity of
use and home range-movement maps using a Time Local Convex Hull (T-LoCoH) analysis. Models determined barn
owls preferred natural habitats for foraging and used vineyards proportionally to their availability. Additionally,
models that decreased the amount of preferred natural habitat showed an increase in owl use of vineyards.
Therefore, there appears to be a trade-off from farmer and conservationist perspectives. Future modeling should
examine if there is an optimal landscape composition that balances the amounts of natural habitats and vineyard
foraging.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds I
EFFECT OF DEVELOPMENT ON MAMMAL USE OF THE RIPARIAN HABITAT IN THE SAN JOAQUIN RIVER
Petros Chrysafis; 692 E Keats Ave, Fresno, CA, 93710; 5599168846; [email protected]; Dr. Brian L.
Cypher, Dr. Steve Blumenshine, Dr. Paul R.Crosbie
Development occurs in varying degrees along the San Joaquin River upland habitat. Upland habitat alteration can
influence downslope areas such as river riparian zones, and thus wildlife use of these important terrestrial-aquatic
interfaces. Camera traps have been deployed on six sites along the river riparian habitat to observe mammal
response to development. Species response to development can be detrimental or beneficial depending on their
behavioral plasticity and sensitivity. Species can benefit from new food and shelter resources whilst others may be
expelled from their habitat due to higher sensitivity or lack of plasticity. Mammal response to development
including use of riparian habitat and activity time will be investigated using mammal assemblages in sites of varying
development and vegetation cover. First, mammal assemblages among sites will be compared to discern a
relationship with development, vegetation level, and their interaction. Second, the influence of development and
vegetation level on mammal mean activity time will be examined to discern relationships and whether thresholds
exist for tolerance to development and vegetation cover. Results from this study are important to conservation as
well as wildlife management.
Poster Session Student Paper
SAVING THE AMARGOSA VOLE: A CASE STUDY IN RESEARCH-DRIVEN RECOVERY
Deana L Clifford; Wildlife Investigations Lab, CA Dept. Fish and Wildlife; 1701 Nimbus Road, Rancho Cordova, CA,
95670; 9163582378; [email protected]; Chris Otahal, Brian Croft, Robert C. Klinger, Tanya Henderson,
Susan Sorrells, Janet Foley
The Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis) has one of the most restricted ranges of any mammal in North
America. Although this species was largely ignored for decades, a population survey in 2010 revealed precariously
low numbers remaining and raised concerns about population health. In response, a multiple-institution team
accelerated the pace of science-driven recovery actions. A series of studies on the vole's distribution, genetics,
demography, population dynamics, diet, habitat use, habitat condition, and disease are informing recovery
decision making. Recovery actions include the creation of a refuge/captive breeding population, translocations and
reintroductions, habitat creation and restoration, experimental field manipulations, and community engagement.
For the short-term, periodic population monitoring continues to evaluate the impact and cost-effectiveness of
different recovery actions. Longer-term, a range-wide habitat and population survey revealed that the entirety of
the vole's unique marsh habitat is threatened by decreasing water availability associated with climate change,
drought, and anthropogenic use. To ensure Amargosa vole conservation is sustainable, our near-term recovery
actions must be embedded within a larger strategy to increase the resiliency of the Amargosa basin's unique
habitats to changing climate and reduced water availability.
Endangered Species Recovery
ADVERSE IMPACTS OF WILDFIRE ON GREATER SAGE-GROUSE POPULATIONS AND SCIENCE-DRIVEN TOOLS TO
SUPPORT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
Peter S. Coates; U.S. Geological Survey; 800 Business Park Rd., Dixon, CA, 95618; 530-669-5073;
[email protected]; Mark A. Ricca, Brian G. Prochazka, Cali L. Roth, Brianne E. Brussee
Larger and more frequent wildfires are a primary threat to wildlife populations across sagebrush ecosystems in the
western United States. The threat is exacerbated by the invasion of annual grasses, which drives an accelerated
grass-fire cycle in the Great Basin and other areas and hinders recovery of fire-intolerant and slow-growing
sagebrush. Moreover, recent research has quantified how increasing rates of cumulative (rather than
instantaneous) area burned have long-term negative impacts on sage-grouse annual rates of population change. If
these rates of cumulative area burned continue unabated, projections indicate that populations of sage-grouse will
be reduced substantially in areas of their range over the next three decades. Thwarting these negative effects of
fire is now at the forefront of national conservation efforts. Accordingly, we present example management tools
aimed at offsetting adverse effects of wildfire on sage-grouse and other wildlife populations dependent on
sagebrush ecosystems. These examples include scenario-based simulations to inform targeted fire suppression
efforts at regional spatial scales, data-driven decision support tools to inform post-fire restoration actions at
regional and local spatial scales, and relative benefits of restoration and fire suppression at multiple
spatiotemporal scales.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II
UTILIZATION OF RIPARIAN WOODLANDS BY CAVITY-NESTING BIRDS IN THE SACRAMENTO VALLEY
Leah J Cochran; CSU Chico; 400 W. 1st St, Chico, CA, 95929; 5309663800; [email protected];
Primary cavity-nesting birds serve as ecosystem engineers and play a vital role in the cavity-nesting bird community
by excavating cavities in dead tree limbs and snags. I surveyed restored riparian woodlands to assess their ability to
accommodate cavity-nesting birds as compared to remnant woodlands. This study provided clear information
about 1) what age restored forests in California's Sacramento Valley begin to accommodate cavity-nesting bird
species by providing large, mature trees and snags suitable for nest-excavation, 2) if the restoration forest planting
scheme has an effect on the vegetation structure over time that may encourage or discourage cavity-nesting bird
colonization, and 3) if remnant forests can be used as a reference for restoration success in regard to the cavity-
nesting bird guild. I found that remnant forests harbor more naturally formed cavities, that Fremont Cottonwood
(Populus fremontii) is a critical source of nesting substrate for excavating species, and that restored forests do not
provide suitable nesting habitat until they have reached a minimum of 13 years post-planting. However, bird
species richness was similar in all habitats, indicating that though younger forests may not provide nesting habitat,
they provide other resources such as food and cover.
Poster Session Student Paper
EXAMINING THE INFLUENCES OF LANDSCAPE AND POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF
SPATIAL-TEMPORAL GENETIC PATTERNS
Amanda E Coen; University of California Davis; One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616; 818-324-0207;
Human land use affects how animals move across landscapes and how their populations are structured.
Understanding whether landscape resistance or population characteristics have greater influence on spatial
genetic patterns and the temporal speed with which they develop is important for wildlife management in an
increasingly human-modified environment. Detecting how landscape change impacts spatial and temporal genetic
patterns depends on the size and genetic diversity of a population, in addition to the degree that the landscape
resists movement. To examine this, gene flow between populations will be simulated for a landscape with two
habitat patches separated by an intervening matrix and a barrier for multiple generations. Landscape surfaces will
be tested at a gradient of resistances from low to high for both the landscape matrix and the linear barrier.
Populations will be simulated with different parameters, including effective population size (Ne), dispersal ability,
and genetic diversity (number of loci and number of alleles per locus). We expect to find that the strength of
spatial genetic patterns and the time for them to appear will be dependent on the size and diversity of the
population and the degree of resistance of the landscape to movement.
Poster Session Student Paper
HABITAT RELATIONSHIPS OF BIRD AND BUMBLE BEE COMMUNITIES IN MONTANE RIPARIAN CORRIDORS
Jerry S Cole; The Institute for Bird Populations; P.O. Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA, 94956; 4156631436;
[email protected]; Rodney B Siegel, Helen L Loffland, Morgan W Tingley
Riparian habitat is important for many wildlife taxa. After fire or other disturbance, riparian habitat is often actively
restored to benefit wildlife, though it is sometimes unclear how different taxa may respond to specific restoration
actions. We surveyed for bumble bees and riparian birds at 203 points in riparian corridors in and near the
footprint of the 2007 Moonlight Fire on Plumas National Forest in northeastern California during 2015 and 2016.
We developed a Bayesian multi-species occupancy modeling framework to model habitat effects on 12 riparian
focal bird species (selected a priori) and 9 bumble bee species. Nearly all bumble bee species had greater
occupancy in areas with higher floral richness, more forb cover, and less shrub cover, while riparian bird species
had no significant relationship to any of these variables. Bird species had greater occupancy in areas with more
willow (Salix spp.) cover and less overstory cover, while bumble bees had no significant relationship to either.
While bird and bumble bee occupancy are affected by different habitat variables, it may be possible to promote
rich communities of both taxa through restoration efforts that establish willow cover preferred by birds
interspersed with the rich forb communities preferred by bumble bees.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II
SNOWY PLOVERS BREED IN OPEN HABITATS WHERE THEIR PRODUCTIVITY DECREASES WITH ACTIVITY OF
CORVIDS AND HUMANS
Mark A Colwell; Wildlife Department, Humboldt State Univ.; 1 Harpst St., Arcata, CA, Mark; [email protected];
Matthew J. Lau, Elizabeth J Feucht
Conservation relies on accurate knowledge of factors that influence the distribution and abundance of species,
with the objective of managing these limiting factors. The western snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) is
listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act owing to habitat loss and degradation, predation,
and human disturbance. We studied a color-marked population for 17 years along ~100 kilometers of ocean-
fronting beach and riverine habitat in northern California to examine the influence of food and extent of breeding
habitat, as well as the activity of predators and humans on the occurrence and reproductive success of plovers.
Plovers were patchily distributed within suitable habitat. The presence of breeding plovers was best explained by
width of beach or gravel bar, which is a surrogate for the open, sparsely vegetated habitats that plovers favor for
breeding. Across occupied habitats, average per capita fledging success of males varied greatly (0-3), and was
inversely correlated with activity of common ravens (Corvus corax) and humans. Our results indicate that although
restoration may enhance habitats that attract breeding plovers, a critical vital rate (productivity) essential for
population growth is compromised by corvid and human activity. We argue for additional efforts to manage these
limiting factors.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III
PRESERVE VIABILITY FOR THE ENDANGERED CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDER IN AN URBANIZING AREA
David G Cook; Sonoma County Water Agency; 404 Aviation Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA, 95403; 707 547-1944;
[email protected]; David Stokes, Julian Meisler
The Sonoma California tiger salamander (SCTS) is a federally endangered vernal pool-breeding distinct population
segment and the subject of conservation efforts consisting primarily of protecting existing populations in remnant
habitat patches (preserves) in a rapidly urbanizing landscape. We conducted a 14-year (2002-2015) study of SCTS
breeding activity at 112 pools on eight preserves encompassing all protected SCTS breeding sites at the time of
federal listing in 2003. Our standardized dip-net surveys show a significant decrease in total SCTS larval abundance
and number of pools used for breeding at preserves. Larval abundance was highly variable across years, with
variability inversely correlated with preserve size and number of pools. The decline in larval abundance, likely
indicative of a rapidly shrinking population, appears to result from habitat loss and fragmentation associated with
urbanization, increasingly dry conditions over the study period, and predation (mostly by non-native vertebrate
predators) in some deeper breeding pools. Our results suggest that a conservation strategy that only protects
remnant habitats and populations is unlikely to successfully conserve SCTS, and additional active conservation
management may be necessary to avoid extinction.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II
MOVEMENTS AND STAGING LOCATIONS OF CANVASBACK (AYTHYA VALISINERIA) IN THE PACIFIC FLYWAY
Nathan A Cook; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N. Virginia St. (186), Reno, NV, 89557; 540-384-1817;
[email protected]; Chris A. Nicolai, Kevin T. Shoemaker
Understanding the geographical extent and timing of wildlife movements enables resource managers to meet the
habitat needs of target species. waterfowl movements are derived primarily from mark-recovery banding data
which typically provide few data points for individuals, and therefore limits estimating migration paths, stopover
sites and timing of movements. Here, we use archival light-level geolocators to build a more complete
understanding of the geography and timing of migratory movements for canvasback (Aythya valisineria) in the
pacific flyway. During 2015-2016, 79 geolocators were attached on canvasback using two methods (leg-band and
nasal-saddle mounts) during spring migration near Reno, NV. Eleven geolocator-fitted canvasback, but only five
geolocators (all leg-band mounts) were recovered by hunters with four yielding data. Three of the four (2 males
and 1 female) migrated to breeding sites in southern Canada (Alberta and Saskatchewan), while one male migrated
to Alaska. During spring migration, canvasbacks stopped 4.25 times for 15.9 days, on average. During fall migration
, canvasback, on average, made 6 stops, lasting 19 days, on average, heading to winter in California. This study
demonstrates the value of geolocators for assessing year-round movements for waterfowl populations and
complements standard band-recovery approaches, to conserve habitats appropriately for the migratory species.
This paper is a work-in-progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
BEEN THERE, TRAPPED THAT! TRAP SUCCESS OF PYGMY RABBITS IN THE GREAT BASIN
Miranda M Crowell; University of Nevada, Reno; 10640 N McCarran Blvd Apt F-342, Reno, NV, 89503; 425-223-
9932; [email protected]; Kevin T. Shoemaker, Marjorie D. Matocq
Pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) are patchily distributed throughout sagebrush-steppe landscapes across
the Great Basin and because sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) dominates their diet year-round, baiting traps and
traditional trap lines are inefficient for capturing these small lagomorphs. Over 2 years, we set 100 traps around
13-17 of the most active burrow systems at 43 sites across Nevada and southeastern Oregon. In 2016, we trapped
a total of 310 individual pygmy rabbits and in 2017, we trapped 257 individuals within our 3 focal study regions,
Elko, Hart-Sheldon, and Austin. Here, we evaluate how trap location (e.g., trap in runway or burrow), sex, age,
recapture status, and abiotic factors influence the success of our exploration with trap positioning driven by the
distribution of active burrow systems. Preliminary results from this study show a total trap success of 5.8% for
16,401 trap nights over 2 years. Traps placed in the burrow facing outward (BO) had the highest success at 11.5%,
while traps placed near a burrow facing the entrance (BE) were the least successful at 2.9%. This trapping method
will ultimately allow us to monitor a cryptic specialist that does not respond to bait and relies on its burrow
systems year-round.
Poster Session Student Paper
COMMUNICATING CHANGE: DEVELOPING CALIFORNIA'S 2017 CONCEPTUAL MOUNTAIN LION DEPREDATION
POLICY
Lynn M Cullens; Mountain Lion Foundation; PO Box 1896, Sacramento, CA, 95812; 916-606-1610;
[email protected]; Daniel Maher, Denise Peterson
In 2017, Californians responded seriously to public concerns about certain dwindling populations of mountain lions
(Puma concolor) affected by the practice of issuing permits to kill upon a property owner's request following
documented loss of domestic animals. The year-long story of what the California Department of Fish and Wildlife
termed a Conceptual Mountain Lion Depredation Policy highlights the parallel but distinct communication paths
and persuasive and informational messaging that form the basis for most wildlife policy change. An initial outcry
crystallized following repeated depredations in the Santa Monica Mountains and the issuance of a permit to kill
one lion, P-45. Opposing public positions became entrenched and increasingly vitriolic as news and social media
focused on the conflict. Those who experienced livestock losses, activists, scientists, local governments, and
nonprofits were caught in the crossfire. Within state government there seemed to be potential for consensus
change, but motivated communicators were constrained by structural, economic, statutory, and regulatory factors
as well as by the complexity of the issues. Legislators, agencies, lobbyists, nonprofits, agricultural associations, and
academic institutions struggled to crystalize communications to overcome misconceptions, bridge deep divides,
and re-evaluate existing policy based on facts, science, conservation goals, and the public good.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences
DEPREDATION DETERRENCE: FINDING COMMON GROUND BY RECOGNIZING THE OBSTACLES WE SHARE
Lynn M Cullens; Mountain Lion Foundation; PO Box 1896, Sacramento, CA, 95812; 916-606-1610;
[email protected]; Daniel Maher, Aaron Huelsman
Livestock operations and ecosystems would benefit from scientifically verified methods for deterring carnivores
from depredating across a variety of livestock species and management scenarios. However, there are substantial
systemic barriers to innovation, adoption, and validation of these deterrent methods. As part of a long-term
examination of the barriers to adoption, we identified six categories of entities that are engaged in adoption:
individual innovators, distributors and retailers, livestock and property owners, field researchers and academia,
government policy-makers and agencies, and wildlife nonprofits. All of these stakeholders bear the burden of
overcoming certain shared obstacles, including the cost in time, money, and relationships required to challenge the
status quo, the counter-intuitive complexity of many of the facts and much of the scientific research related to
depredation, inherent difficulties in assessing the efficacy of proposed deterrents, questions around the legitimacy
of research related to funding, internal and external perceptions and expectations that other stakeholders should
be held responsible, and responding effectively to generational conflicts and regional differences. Considering each
of these shared obstacles from the stakeholder's perspectives sets the stage for overcoming more stakeholder-
specific barriers and implementing effective depredation deterrents.
Wildlife Techniques and Technologies
MARTEN BOXES: SURROGATE CAVITY STRUCTURES FOR A CAVITY-OBLIGATE FOREST CARNIVORE
Matthew S Delheimer; USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station; 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis,
OR, 97331; 530-414-1779; [email protected]; Mark A. Linnell, Katie M. Moriarty
Collecting demographic data is time-consuming and expensive but allows monitoring of population trends. Further,
locating reproductive structures (e.g., nests, dens) can be difficult, especially for species that use cryptic locations
such as tree cavities. Surrogate cavity structures, or nest boxes, have commonly been used for conservation and
monitoring of birds, but have rarely been tested on cavity-using mammals. The Humboldt marten (Martes caurina
humboldtensis) is a cavity-obligate mustelid that has previously been proposed for federal endangered species
listing. However, little information exists on Humboldt marten demographics; our objective was to assess the
effectiveness of boxes as a population monitoring method. We designed marten-specific boxes and installed them
in trees in cavity-poor coastal dune forests in Oregon. We monitored boxes (n = 19) with a remote camera for 4-12
months, over a single reproductive season. Martens used 9 boxes (64%) with at least 1 box used by a female
marten and 1 kit. Three boxes had large numbers of scats (n = 7-45), inferring increased use. Boxes were also used
by marten prey species such as squirrels. Our box design appears to provide suitable surrogate cavity structures,
demographic and reproductive data, and scat to infer diet for an elusive forest carnivore.
Poster Session
DOES THE AQUATIC GARTERSNAKE (THAMNOPHIS ATRATUS) DEPEND ON INTRODUCED SALMONIDS OR NATIVE
AMPHIBIANS AT HIGH ELEVATIONS IN THE TRINITY ALPS WILDERNESS?
Justin A Demianew; Humboldt State University; 898 10th Street, Eureka, CA, 95501; (916)217-7583;
[email protected]; Adrian D. Macedo, Justin M. Garwood, Daniel C. Barton
Interactions between introduced and native consumers are often complex and cryptic, and actions designed to
highlight or mitigate the effects of introduced species can be difficult to accomplish or controversial to carry out.
We shed light on relationships between the introduced brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), imperiled Cascades frog
(Rana cascadae), and their shared predator, the aquatic gartersnake (Thamnophis atratus), using a treatment-
control removal experiment in a sub-alpine system of northern California. Specifically, we report changes in the
abundance and distribution of the aquatic gartersnake and Cascades frog following complete basin-wide
eradication of introduced brook trout. Our findings corroborate previous research suggesting aquatic gartersnake
abundance and distribution, as well as the resulting hyperpredation experienced by Cascades frogs, is largely
dependent on the presence of salmonids historically stocked for recreational angling. These results not only
demonstrate how a single introduced species can have drastic and unintended consequences in seemingly pristine
wilderness settings, but they also illustrate how restoration-based management can reshape native food webs.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II Student Paper
UNEXPECTED MOVEMENTS AND MIGRATION BY BREEDING PEREGRINE FALCONS (FALCO PEREGRINUS) IN
PLUMAS COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Colin P Dillingham; USDA Forest Service; 39696 Highway 70, Quincy, CA, 95971; 530-394-8219;
[email protected]; Jeff W Kidd, Scott E Thomas, Elizabeth F Morata
From 2016 to 2017, we attached five global positioning system (GPS) transmitters to peregrine falcons (Falco
peregrinus) in a previously unstudied population in the Sierra Nevada of Plumas County, California. This pilot study
was intended to help the U.S. Forest Service better understand movement ecology and use of various forest
habitats, including those areas that were subject to a devastating 65,000-acre forest fire in 2007. Breeding adult
falcons were captured near three different cliff nest sites using a dho-gaza with a live great horned owl (Bubo
viginianus) as the lure. Trapping was conducted in July of each year when adults were feeding young that were at
least four weeks of age. Three solar-powered satellite and two cellular-based GPS transmitters were attached in
the backpack position. Tracking data suggest adults travel up to 30 kilometers in each direction to forage during
the chick-feeding stage. During late summer and early fall, adult falcons moved to lower elevations in the
Sacramento Valley to winter while others migrated to downtown Los Angeles and as far as southern Mexico.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds I
HABITAT SELECTION BY PYGMY RABBIT AT REGIONAL AND LANDSCAPE SCALES
Thomas E Dilts; University of Nevada Reno; 1664 N. Virgina St., Reno, NV, 89557; 775-784-1447;
[email protected]; Miranda Crowell, Marjorie Matocq, Kevin Shoemaker, Eveline Larrucea
Habitat selection occurs at multiple spatial scales ranging from fine-scale local selection to selection at the scale of
the entire species' range. Pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) is a specialized burrowing rabbit that relies on
sagebrush for most of its diet and for cover from predators. Using a variety of occurrence datasets, we generated
multi-scale habitat selection models at the scale of the Great Basin and for three replicate landscapes: Hart-
Sheldon, Elko, and Austin. For each of these landscapes/scales we generated models using an integrated modeling
approach that incorporated both presence-absence and presence-background data and accounted for spatial
sampling bias. Preliminary results suggest that a wide range of topographic, climatic, and vegetation variables may
describe pygmy rabbit habitat. Our work has relevance to conservation and management of this sagebrush obligate
species, and habitat models derived from this study can be used to inform regional habitat connectivity planning.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals III
SEASONAL ACTIVITY OF THE PALLID BAT (ANTROZOUS PALLIDUS) IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Cameron Divoky; California State University, Chico; Department of Biological Sciences; 205 Holt Hall, Chico, CA,
95926; [email protected]; Trevor Moore, Colleen A. Hatfield, Shahroukh Mistry
Antrozous pallidus is a Species of Special Concern in California and listed as a State Vulnerable species. It is known
to roost in the crevices of rock-faces throughout western North America. Previous studies of A. pallidus have
focused mainly on behavior and roosting patterns, with limited information available on long-term seasonal
activity. The aim of this study is to examine the patterns of seasonal activity in A. pallidus at three sites in northern
California, ranging from the Central Valley (60m) to the Cascades (1550m). Antrozous pallidus activity was
documented daily using acoustic data loggers at the Eagle Lake Field Station, Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve
and the CSU Chico University Farm. We examined pallid bat acoustic activity across all three sites for a duration of
up to three years. Bat species identity was established using SonoBat software. Antrozous pallidus showed the
greatest seasonal activity in the summer (June-July) with minimal activity during the winter months (November -
February). This pattern was most noticeable at BCCER, with significantly lower activity levels at the other two sites.
This indicates seasonal migratory activity by pallid bats and a preference for oak woodland habitat, with adjoining
rock outcrops, over valley agricultural landscapes.
Poster Session Student Paper
SHORT, CHEAP... & SWEET! INFORMING LOCAL GOVERNMENT REGARDING WILDLIFE ACTIVITY IN RECREATIONAL
AREAS THROUGH INEXPENSIVE AND NONINVASIVE TRAIL CAMERA METHODOLOGY
Korinna M Domingo; Mountain Lion Foundation; 1721 Stewart St, Aracata, CA, 95521; 818-415-0920;
Local governments value information about wildlife presence in order to reassure and inform residents about how
best to coexist in recreation areas and along the urban edge, to inform land-use planning, and to conserve
ecosystems. But most cities cannot afford elaborate peer-reviewed studies to document wildlife. This survey
identified certain species of mammals that live in the Verdugo Mountains in Burbank, and Glendale, California
using inexpensive, noninvasive techniques in collaboration with community college students. Little was known
about the activity of mammals likely to interact with recreating humans relative to time of day, temperature, moon
phase or habitat type along the primary trail system. Remote sensing cameras were deployed to compare results
on fire roads, hiking trails, game trails and in areas without apparent trails. A total of 162 mammal photos were
captured using motion-activated infrared cameras between January and June 2017. Of these, 33% were coyote
(Canis latrans), 17% bobcat (Lynx rufus), 14% gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), 12% striped skunk (Mephitis
mephitis), 10% mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), 8% opossum (Didelphimorphia), 5% mountain lion (Puma
concolor), and 1% other. The majority of the photos were captured from sunset to sunrise, demonstrating that
these urban mammals are primarily crepuscular or nocturnal.
Poster Session
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PUSHES CHANGE IN THE PROCESS OF DATA COLLECTION, MANAGEMENT, AND
REPORTING: HOW TO DO IT
Kristen D Hazard; Wildnote; 872 Higuera St, San Luuis Obispo, CA, 93405; 805 550-1806;
[email protected]; Nancy L. Douglas, Nancy L Douglas
For centuries, the field notebook, clipboards with forms, and writing utensils have been used to collect data and
record research field notes. Transcribing hand-written notes and data into a computer and then manually
compiling, collating, and formatting data to generate a report remains the practice for completing the progression.
Current digital technology offers a more robust, streamlined methodology for data collection, management, and
reporting. Using a comprehensive digital approach is more efficient, but converting to a digital process can be
challenging. Change is filled with questions and concerns. Wildnote has worked with 353 organizations to make the
switch. We have guided these entities through the process to successfully re-orient their data collection,
management, and reporting methods. The process includes: (1) an understanding shift - how the technology works,
(2) a technical shift - using hardware and software in the field, (3) a practical shift - using hardware in remote
locations and in varied environments, and (4) a mental shift - to accept the new over the old and trust it will work.
Digital technology is not the future; it is the now. Change is here.
Wildlife Techniques and Technologies
DISEASE SURVEILLANCE OF WILD AND PEN-REARED PHEASANTS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY OF CALIFORNIA
Ian A Dwight; U.S. Geological Survey; 800 Business Park Drive Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620; (916) 838-0351;
[email protected]; Peter S. Coates, Simone T. Stoute, C. Gabriel Senties-Cue, Radhika V. Gharpure, Maurice E.
Pitesky
The release of pen-reared ring-necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) on wildlands is a common management
practice to augment local pheasant populations. However, this management practice may facilitate disease
transmission to wildlife populations at release sites. Studies focused on disease exposure of pen-reared pheasants
and the potential for disease transmission can help guide management actions aimed at protecting wildlife
populations. We investigated exposure to diseases in wild (n = 33) and pen-reared (n = 12) pheasants in the Central
Valley of California during 2014 and 2015. We found positive serology for antibodies against hemorrhagic enteritis
(HE, 58%), infectious bursal disease (IBD, 83%), and Newcastle disease (ND, 50%) in pen-reared pheasants. Wild
pheasants also showed positive serology for antibodies against HE (15%), IBD (70%), and ND (18%) as well as
infectious bronchitis virus (6%), infectious laryngotracheitis (3%), and Pasteurella multocida (9%). These results
suggest that both wild and pen-reared pheasants show historical exposure to the above-mentioned organisms and
appear to be potential disease reservoirs. Therefore, releasing pen-reared pheasants might put wild populations at
higher risk of disease exposure. Additional research would benefit our understanding of disease interaction
between pheasants and other bird species.
Wildlife Health and Disease Ecology Student Paper
HABITAT SUITABILITY MODELING FOR THE REINTRODUCTION OF CASCADES FROG (RANA CASCADAE) INTO
LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK
Lauren M Enriquez; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst Street, Arcata, CA, 95521; 5622666987;
Cascades frog (Rana cascadae) populations were once prevalent throughout the southern Cascade Range,
including Lassen Volcanic National Park (LVNP). There is growing concern due to their rapid decline in these areas.
Recent local extinction at LVNP has been driven by the introduction of non-native fish, habitat loss, drought, and
chytridiomycosis. We aim to determine candidate areas in LVNP for the reintroduction of Cascades frogs. To
achieve this, we will use a modeling approach to assess habitat conditions throughout the southern Cascade
Range, where Cascades frogs are found breeding and identify sites with similar conditions within LVNP. Maxent
and HEMI will be used to create habitat suitability models using continuous variables, such as temperature, and
categorical variables, such as fish presence. The models generated will recommend suitable sites within LVNP for
the reintroduction of Cascades frogs. This paper is a work in progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
SHELL-SHOCKED: COMPARING A WESTERN POND TURTLE POPULATION PRE- AND POST-DROUGHT
Hannah Fertel; East Bay Municipal Utility District; 500 San Pablo Dam Road, Orinda, CA, 94563; 5109867667;
[email protected]; Jessica Purificato, Jonathan Price, Bert Mulchaey
The Western Pond turtle (Actinemys marmorata) is a mid-sized semiaquatic turtle found throughout Northern
California in reservoirs, ponds, and streams. Six perennial stock ponds on East Bay Municipal Utility District lands
have persistent Western pond turtle populations that are monitored annually using visual basking turtle counts. A
decline in the total number of turtles observed at these ponds annually coincided with California's most recent
drought, prompting a mark/recapture study to be carried out during the summer or 2017. A mark/recapture study
of similar scope and methodology was previously carried out at one of the monitored locations in 2011 as part of a
telemetry effort. Comparing the results of these two studies provides a "before and after" snapshot of turtle
demographics in one pond, following a severe drought. This project seeks to gauge effects of extended drought
conditions on a turtle population's age structure, physical demographics, survivorship, and breeding capacity by
analyzing data collected during the study. A cursory evaluation of capture data indicates a population shift towards
a younger, smaller demographic, with population estimates lower than previously recorded.
Poster Session
BACKGROUND MORTALITY: SETTING CONTEXT FOR AVIAN MORTALITY RATES AT SOLAR FACILITIES IN THE
CALIFORNIA DESERT
Amy L Fesnock; California BLM; 2800 Cottage Way, W-1928, Sacramento, CA, 95825; 916-978-4646;
[email protected]; Manuela Huso, Linda Allison
In the California deserts, avian monitoring studies documented collision-related fatalities at solar facilities. These
raw data are adjusted to correct for detection probabilities and scavenger removal to produce estimates of total
facility-caused mortality for all bird species. These estimates are used to determine potential impact of the solar
facility on birds. However, this approach ignores avian mortality that occurs naturally in the same environment,
i.e., the actual impact of the facility should be evaluated in terms of estimated facility-caused mortality that
exceeds background rates. While this is a potentially important factor, few studies have estimated the magnitude
of background fatality, and we are aware of no such studies from California deserts. Gathering background avian
mortality data was integrated into an existing study on desert tortoise populations. Transects were conducted
across the Mojave and Colorado desert in desert tortoise conservation areas, typically the least developed areas in
the region. The avian mortalities detected during surveys were corrected for detection probabilities and scavenger
pressure in the region to provide an estimate of background avian mortality (and 95% confidence interval) in
desert tortoise habitat during the monitoring period. This background rate is compared to mortality rates
documented at solar facilities.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III
COMMUNICATING SCIENCE THROUGH PUBLIC MEETINGS
Lisa E Fields; California State Parks; 2797 Truxtun Road, San Diego, CA, 92106; 619-221-7044;
Communicating science to non-scientists is critical to project success and occurs in many different settings and
formats, from informal interactions to formal presentations. A common type of formal presentation is the public
meeting, which is often used to disseminate information but can also be used to identify community concerns and
solve problems. Effectively communicating science in a public meeting setting can be difficult. Success is based on
many factors, and like collecting scientific information begins with correctly identifying the purpose and choosing
the appropriate tool (i.e., meeting method). Graphical and verbal data presentation methods also impact the
audience's understanding and acceptance of scientific data. Approaches used by California State Parks will be
presented to illustrate methods of scientific communication in public meetings.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences
EXCLUSIONARY FENCING FOR CALIFORNIA TIGER SALAMANDERS: LESSONS LEARNED
Claudia A Funari; US Fish and Wildlife Service; 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA, 95682; 916-414-6646;
[email protected]; Sean Dexter (2nd presenter)
Construction projects conducted in California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) upland habitat generally
require minimization measures to reduce injury or mortality to individuals from ground disturbance caused by
heavy equipment use. In instances where significant or prolonged ground disturbance is planned, exclusionary
fencing and trapping have been used to minimize mortality of individuals in the enclosed area. Data collected at
two construction sites in the East Bay in California suggest that fencing in areas near known breeding sites with
large populations may require extensive biological monitoring or enhanced trapping to ensure minimal mortality
during construction. At one site, trapping was conducted over many years to remove all individuals in the fenced
area. However, there was no significant decline in individuals trapped per year. These data suggest that
exclusionary fencing in areas with extensive underground burrow systems may have minimal effect at reducing the
number of individuals in enclosed areas. At another site, a cohort of migrating juveniles was found desiccated at an
exclusion fence surrounding the construction area. This example also illustrates that exclusion fencing without
extensive trapping may have a detrimental effect on migrating individuals where fencing is installed close to
breeding ponds.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I
VERY HIGH DENSITIES OF MULE DEER (ODOCOILEUS HEMIONUS) ASSOCIATED WITH SUBURBAN DEVELOPMENT
IN MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Brett J Furnas; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; 1701 Nimbus Road, Suite D, Rancho Cordova, CA, 95760;
530-227-3998; [email protected]; Russ H. Landers, Stuart S. Itoga, Benjamin N. Sacks
In contrast to white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) of eastern North America, which are usually considered
over-abundant and at nuisance levels, concern typically expressed about mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) in
California is that they have declined in abundance over the last 50 years. This may be true for some migratory
herds, but abundant deer near coastal cities pose potential for human-wildlife conflict. To examine potential
causes of high density in a coastal population of deer throughout Marin County, California, we used fecal DNA
surveys during 2015-2016 and spatial capture-recapture modeling. We estimated an average density of 18.9
(90%CI: 16.4-21.4) resident deer per square kilometer, which was four times greater than recently found for
migratory deer in interior mountains of the state. Deer density in Marin was positively associated with oak habitats
and human density up to approximately 500 people per square kilometer. Visual assessment of body condition
using cameras suggests deer were not limited nutritionally. Coyote detections from cameras were more strongly
correlated with fawns than adult deer. These results suggest the highest densities of deer found in southeastern
Marin were strongly associated with suburban development within oak woodlands. Future research should
investigate population growth rate and potential effects of coyote predation on recruitment.
Urban Wildlife Management
LAYERING LANDSCAPES OF FEAR: THE ROLE OF PREDATION RISK AND HUMAN DISTURBANCE IN A CALIFORNIA
LARGE MAMMAL COMMUNITY
Kaitlyn M Gaynor; University of California - Berkeley; 1920 Stuart St, Berkeley, CA, 94703; 914-391-3962;
[email protected]; Alex McInturff, Justin Brashares
The "landscape of fear" has become a central topic of ecological research, furthering our understanding of
predator-prey interactions in heterogeneous landscapes. Spatial variation in predation can explain patterns of
animal behavior and distribution, and the fear associated with predation risk is a key driver of survival and
population dynamics. Using the landscape of fear framework, we studied how black-tailed deer experience,
perceive, and respond to layered risk from both hunters and natural predators. Our research site, the Hopland
Research and Extension Center in Mendocino County, California, is heterogeneous both in terms of habitat and
human footprint. This heterogeneity sets the stage for fear-driven interactions between deer, mountain lions,
bears, coyotes, and hunters. Deer alter their patterns of habitat selection, movement, and activity to avoid areas
and time periods of highest risk. Our research integrates a mix of spatial tools, including remote sensing and GIS,
GPS telemetry, camera traps, and controlled behavioral experiments. Using these tools, we have quantified spatial
and temporal patterns of predation risk as well as deer behavioral responses to better understand the role of fear
in human-altered ecosystems.
Poster Session
POPULATION GENETICS OF BIGHORN SHEEP (OVIS CANADENSIS) IN ARIZONA FOLLOWING DECADES OF
TRANSLOCATION MANAGEMENT
Daphne A Gille; California Department of Fish & Wildlife; 1701 Nimbus Rd, Suite D, Rancho Cordova, CA, 95670;
(530) 752-6351; [email protected]; Michael R. Buchalski, Dave Conrad, Esther S. Rubin, Amber M.
Munig, Brian Wakeling, Clinton W. Epps, Tyler G. Creech, Rachel Crowhurst, Brandon Holton, Ryan Monello, Walter
Boyce; Cecilia Penedo; Holly Ernest
Translocation has proven to be an effective tool in promoting re-establishment of populations of bighorn sheep
(Ovis canadensis) throughout the southwestern United States following severe decline due to anthropogenic
factors. However, the genetic consequences of over half a century of translocation management in Arizona are
largely unknown. Here, we used microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA markers to estimate intra- and inter-
population genetic parameters in 16 indigenous and translocated bighorn sheep populations statewide. We found
no reduction in genetic diversity between translocated and source populations from which we had samples.
Assignment tests confirmed the presence of three lineages of bighorn sheep (two desert: O. c. nelsoni and O. c.
mexicana, and one Rocky Mountain: O. c. canadensis) in Arizona and revealed hierarchical structure within each of
the two desert lineages. Two O. c. nelsoni metapopulations representing herds from the Black Mountains and
Grand Canyon were detected in northern Arizona while two O. c. mexicana metapopulations representing herds
from the Kofa Mountains range and the area below highway I-8 were identified in the southern part of the state.
To preserve genetic integrity and local adaptation in bighorn sheep in Arizona, our results suggest a departure from
current management strategies and that translocation should occur only within these genetically differentiated
metapopulations.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management
DISTRIBUTION OF ALEUTIAN DISEASE VIRUS-LIKE VIRUS IN FREE RANGING STRIPED SKUNKS (MEPHITIS
MEPHITIS) IN CALIFORNIA
Elle T Glueckert; University of California, Davis; 1320 Tupper Hall, Davis, CA, 95616; (574)993-2412;
[email protected]; Deana, L, Clifford, Maris, Brenn-White, Jennine, N, Ochoa, Mourad, W, Gabriel, Greta,
M, Wengert, Janet, E, Foley
Aleutian disease virus (ADV) is an amdoparvovirus with substantial health impacts on farmed mink worldwide, but
it is also capable of infecting a variety of related carnivores. In 2010-2013, an outbreak of Aleutian disease,
associated with severe neurological disease and fatalities, was documented in free-ranging striped skunks
(Mephitis mephitis) from the San Francisco Bay Area of northern California. To further investigate the extent of this
outbreak, we collected blood samples from skunks throughout California and tested for the presence of Aleutian
disease viremia using polymerase chain reaction. Aleutian disease viral DNA was detected in 140/216 (64.8%)
sampled skunks, and ADV-positive skunks were present in all 19 counties sampled and four designated geographic
zones, ranging as far north as Humboldt County and south to San Diego County. Testing of archived samples
collected prior to 2010 provided evidence for ADV infections in skunks dating back to 2004. Our results indicate a
skunk specific ADV strain or closely related virus is geographically widespread and that infected skunks were
present in the state prior to the 2010-2013 outbreak. Continued investigation of this virus in skunks is warranted as
is testing other at-risk species.
Wildlife Health and Disease Ecology
LANDSCAPE AND VEGETATION FEATURES IMPROVE RESTORATION SUCCESS FOR BIRDS: USING THE RIPARIAN
BIRD INDEX TO EVALUATE CREEK RESTORATION IN CALIFORNIA RANGELANDS
Kathleen E Grady; Sonoma State University; 1801 E. Cotati Blvd, Rohnert Park, CA, 94928; 4157288193;
[email protected]; Derek J Girman, Thomas Gardali
Grazing practices and development at ranches and dairies in coastal northern California have led to a decline in
riparian habitat and its associated benefits. However, stakeholders have been restoring riparian vegetation. We
examined avian response to riparian restoration on these private lands to measure restoration success. We used
avian surveys from 40 plots at 20 sites between 2001 and 2016. Sites ranged in age from 0 to 27 years since
revegetation. Surveys were scored using the Riparian Bird Index (RBI), a richness index that gives higher scores for
species closely associated with riparian vegetation. RBI scores were found to increase significantly with increasing
restoration age. Vegetation data were collected in 2016 to examine the effect of local vegetation on RBI score.
Canopy cover and non-willow canopy were found to be significant predictors of RBI score. We analyzed sites at the
landscape scale to understand what plot size and location variables best predict bird response. We found that
corridor width and size and proximity of the nearest protected area were significant. Our study shows that riparian
restoration in this study area has been successful for birds. We suggest that continued long-term monitoring is
crucial to understanding restoration success and to managing sites.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II Student Paper
MIXED-SEVERITY WILDFIRES HAVE A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON FISHERS AND A POSITIVE EFFECT ON GRAY FOXES
David S Green; Oregon State University; Institute for Natural Resources/INR, Portland, OR, 97207; 6024814524;
[email protected]; Sean, M, Matthews, Laura, L, Finley, Roger, A, Powell
The combination of many years of fire suppression and global climate change is predicted to increase the
frequency and intensity of wildfires in certain parts of the world, especially in the western United States. Large-
scale wildfires have the capacity to reduce, fragment, or permanently change habitat and are a major source of
conservation and management concern for forest wildlife. We used data collected from a long-term monitoring
program to investigate the effects of a naturally-occurring mixed-severity wildfire on the populations of two
mesopredators in northern California and southern Oregon: fishers (Pekania pennanti) and gray foxes (Urocyon
cinereoargenteus). Using genetic data collected with hair snares, we applied spatial capture-recapture models to
estimate fisher and fox densities the year before the fire, the year of the fire, and the two years immediately
following the fire. Fisher populations declined significantly following the fire, most notably in the areas where there
was more than a 50% loss of canopy cover. In contrast to this pattern, gray fox populations increased significantly
following the fire and were also influenced by local fisher densities. Our findings provide further evidence that
fishers may suppress gray fox populations where they persist.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II
A NOVEL BREAK-AWAY DEVICE FOR USE WITH RADIOCOLLARS ON FISHERS AND OTHER SMALL CARNIVORES
Rebecca E Green; USDA Forest Service, PSW Research Station; 54325 McKinley Grove Rd, Shaver Lake, CA, 93664;
559-974-4711; [email protected]; Kathryn L. Purcell, Craig M. Thompson
Radiotelemetry is a valuable technique available to wildlife biologists. In some cases, it is the only known or
logistically feasible approach to collect specific data to aid in the conservation of a rare species or address an
important research question. However, the attachment of radiotransmitters to animals is not always without
negative effects; in some cases, researchers may need ways to minimize potential impacts of transmitters on
individuals while still obtaining data to answer research questions. The fisher (Pekania pennanti) is a species that
presents challenges to radiocollar attachment due to its slender morphology, fluctuations in neck size of males by
age and season, and inclination to use tight spaces and forested habitats with elements that can snag collars.
During a long-term fisher study in the southern Sierra Nevada, we developed and used handmade breakaway
devices that we attached to radiocollars in an effort to reduce potential neck injuries, provide opportunities for
animals to break free from the collar if stuck, and eventually allow the collar to drop off if the animal was never
recaptured. While the basic pattern and materials used were designed for fishers, this break-away pattern has the
potential to be adapted for use with other species.
Poster Session
RELOCATING A HISTORIC CORMORANT NESTING COLONY BY INSTALLING NESTING PLATFORMS ON THE NEW
EAST SPAN OF THE SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND BAY BRIDGE
Natalie P Greer; 300 Lakeside Dr, Suite 400, Oakland, CA, 94612; 5107355070; [email protected]; Stefan
Galvez, Melinda Schulze, Lauren Bingham, DJ Allison
Since 1984, double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) nesting has been documented on the original span
of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge (SFOBB). By 2007, the SFOBB colony had grown to become one of the
largest in Northern California, with 800 nests. Following the Loma Prieta Earthquake in 1989, the California
Department of Transportation (Caltrans) began planning the replacement of the original span. Recognizing that
demolition of the original span would remove a critical, local, nesting site for the species, Caltrans constructed
nesting platforms on the new span in the hopes that the colony would relocate. The nesting platforms were
completed in 2009 and enticements were installed with the goal of relocating the colony to the new location.
Enticements included decoys, audio broadcasts, nest boxes, and mirrors to mimic greater density on the platforms.
As demolition of the original span began in 2014, the new nesting platforms sat unused as the colony held onto the
remaining sections of the original span. On March 28, 2017, the final span of the original bridge was lowered,
removing the colony's historic habitat. On April 5, 2017, the first cormorant observations on the new platforms
were recorded. By May 2017, approximately 600-700 birds were observed roosting and nesting on the new
platforms. The cormorants observed are likely from the same population that were using the original span.
Urban Wildlife Management
A GROVE WITH A VIEW: HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF MONARCH BUTTERFLY OVERWINTERING SITES IN SANTA
BARBARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Jessica L. Griffiths; Althouse and Meade, Inc.; 1602 Spring St, Paso Robles, CA, 93446; 847-334-1196; jg@alt-
me.com; Charis van der Heide, Daniel E. Meade, Francis X. Villablanca
Every fall, monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) west of the Rocky Mountains migrate to the California coast for
the winter. The monarch butterfly is currently under review by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service for
possible listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. It is therefore crucial that habitat for this species be
conserved and properly managed. We conducted a comprehensive survey of monarch butterfly overwintering sites
in Santa Barbara County during the winter of 2016-2017 and completed standardized habitat assessments at 106 of
the 130 surveyed sites. We compared habitat characteristics (topography, canopy cover, presence of water, etc.)
between sites that did and did not have monarch aggregations. We also examined disturbances and threats to
habitat at each site. Overwintering sites with clustering monarchs had more tree and shrub cover, less bare soil,
lower average wind speeds, and higher relative humidity within the grove. The presence of eucalyptus leaf beetle
was the most prevalent threat to all sites, followed by drought stress. Information on habitat characteristics and
potential threats will inform overwintering habitat management decisions and allow for more effective habitat
restoration.
Urban Wildlife Management
A NEW METHOD TO ESTIMATE MIGRATION TIMING
Mitchell A Gritts; Nevada department of wildlife; 6980 Sierra center parkway, Reno, Nv, 89509; 7756881405;
Methods for characterizing patterns and behaviors in movement ecology can be simple, classifying movement
strategy with net squared displacement, or complex, Bayesian partitioning of Markov models. However, estimating
the timing of migration with any of these methods tends to result in inconsistent or difficult to interpret results. For
instance, behavioral change point analysis is too sensitive and overestimates the number of states (migration or
non-migration), while the more complex methods are too computationally intensive for this simple task. At the
Nevada Department of Wildlife, we have deployed over 1600 collars in the last five years. To decrease the number
of hours spent manually estimating migration, we developed an algorithm that uses binary search of the net
squared displacement values. This method successfully identifies migration timing more often and with less human
input than other methods. Here we present a brief overview of the algorithm as well as its applications to mule
deer migrations in Nevada.
Wildlife Techniques and Technologies
UNEXPECTED CONSPECIFIC LEUCOCYTOZOON INFECTION IN WOODPECKERS AND CORVIDS
Tierra C Groff; San Francisco State University; 1600 Holloway Ave, San Francisco , CA, 94132; 415-342-1337;
[email protected]; Teresa J Lorenz, Ravinder N Sehgal
Haemosporidians, protozoan blood parasites that cause malaria-like disease, have been studied in many wild bird
populations throughout the world. However, no basic prevalence studies have been done on woodpeckers in the
western United States. One genus of haemosporidian parasites that is commonly found in woodpeckers
is Leucocytozoon, which is spread by blackflies. It was previously thought that species of Leucocytozoon are order-
specific. Here we test the hypothesis that woodpeckers, which share habitats with many passerine birds, are
exposed to and harbor their common blood parasites. Blood samples were taken from 138 individuals, both
juveniles and adults, of six different species of woodpeckers. Analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and
the morphology of infected white blood cells indicate these woodpeckers were infected with L. sarkharoffi or L.
berestneffi, which had previously been found only in corvids. The distinction between these two species
of Leucocytozoon is under review. Four distinct lineages were found in juvenile and adult northern flickers
(Colaptes auratus) and in one juvenile black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus). This is the strongest conclusive
evidence of a haemosporidian in the genus Leucocytozoon infecting birds from different orders.
Wildlife Health and Disease Ecology Student Paper
IMPROVING AT-RISK SPECIES DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION TO SUPPORT FOREST PLANNING AND
MANAGEMENT
Healy Hamilton; NatureServe; 4600 N Fairfax Dr 7th Floor, Arlington, VA, 22203; 703-908-1889;
[email protected]; Regan Smyth
The United States Forest Service (USFS) 2012 Planning Rule includes a requirement to "provide for the diversity of
plant and animal communities", with a specific provision to "maintain a viable population of each species of
conservation concern (SCC) within the plan area." Implementing this important provision requires an
understanding of both which species are of conservation concern and whether their distribution occurs within the
planning area. While various conservation status assessment resources can help identify which species might be
listed "of concern", information about the potential distribution of SCCs within USFS jurisdiction is challenging to
acquire, is poorly standardized, and can often be highly subjective. Advances in methods of predictive species
distribution modeling and recent developments in the spatially explicit environmental covariates required to apply
this method now support a rigorous, standardized, and repeatable approach to evaluating the probability of at-risk
species occurrence in the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems managed by the USFS. Here we describe a proposed
national standard for predictive distribution modeling in management and regulatory contexts. We draw from
examples relevant to designations of SCCs on USFS lands. We demonstrate how a nationally standardized approach
to predicting at-risk species distributions can increase transparency, reduce conflict and uncertainty, and improve
conservation outcomes.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
PLANNING RULE HISTORY, PURPOSE, AND APPROACH TO WILDLIFE
Meryl Harrell; Meryl Harrell LLC; 1102 St. Louis Place NE, Atlanta, GA, 30306; 9082956184;
Planning procedures dating from 1982 have guided the development of nearly all existing United States Forest
Service (USFS) land management plans (forest plans). However, the body of science that informs forest planning in
areas such as conservation biology and ecology has advanced considerably, along with a greater understanding of
the challenges and stressors, including climate change, that may impact national forests. In 2012, the USFS
adopted a new National Forest System land management planning rule, which guides the development,
amendment, and revision of forest plans for all 176 units of the National Forest System. The planning rule
established procedural and content requirements for forest plans to maintain and restore ecologically resilient
national forest landscapes and sustain at-risk wildlife populations, while providing for ecosystem services and
multiple uses. The planning rule adopts a science-based, complementary ecosystem and species-specific approach
to meet the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requirement to provide for a "diversity of plant and animal
communities" in national forests. To inform development of the planning rule, the USFS convened a science forum,
and the rule requires the use of best available scientific information to inform planning and plan decisions and
provides an adaptive management framework for planning. It also supports working with land managers across
jurisdictional boundaries to address resource issues, including for habitat connectivity. Since 2012, forests have
begun to use the 2012 Planning Rule to revise land management plans. Effective and improved implementation of
the planning rule requires continued public engagement and adaptive management.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
WILDLIFE MORTALITIES IN OPEN TOP PIPES IN THE SOUTH FORK KERN RIVER VALLEY, KERN COUNTY,
CALIFORNIA
Michelle L Harris; Humboldt State University & Southern Sierra Research Station; 1148 Joanna Ct., McKinleyville,
CA, 95519; 5596761700; [email protected];
Nearly 20 billion birds are killed in the United States each year by a number of anthropogenic causes, but one of
the lesser-known threats are metal and PVC pipes. Open top pipes are prevalent across the landscape, as they are
used for a multitude of agricultural, mining, and infrastructural purposes. Birds, herptiles, and small mammals are
attracted to the pipes as a site for nesting or shelter but soon become trapped by the smooth interior and small
diameter. Cavity-nesting birds are the most likely to enter these pipes, due to competition between species and a
shortage of tree cavities in their natural habitat. Peer-reviewed research focusing on open top pipes as a hazard for
wildlife is near nonexistent. I will inspect pipes on the land surrounding the Kern River Preserve in the South Fork
Kern River Valley, California a Globally Important Bird Area. The goal of this study is to obtain a dataset on the
presence/absence and taxa-specificity of wildlife mortalities in pipes, while measuring the influence of pipe
dimensions and adjacent habitat type. This study will contribute to insufficient research on the negative impacts of
these pipes that is necessary to support habitat restoration and pipe alteration projects.
Poster Session Student Paper
BAT ACOUSTIC SURVEY APPROACHES: KEY CONSIDERATIONS IN A DEVELOPING FIELD
Leila S Harris; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; Wildlife Investigations Lab, 1701 Nimbus Road Suite D,
Rancho Cordova, CA, 95670; 650-455-6184; [email protected]; Michael R. Buchalski, Scott D. Osborn
In recent years, improved computing power and increased interest in bat conservation have generated numerous
technological options to record and analyze the ultrasonic vocalizations of bats. A growing number of biologists
and land managers use bat acoustic detection equipment and analysis software to inform impact assessments and
mitigation approaches, support monitoring needs, enhance interpretive programs, and answer research questions.
However, the physics of ultrasound, bat behavior, competing biotic and abiotic signals, weather conditions, the
technologies themselves, and the knowledge level of the user all present potentially confounding elements that if
not recognized could lead to spurious results in data collection and interpretation. As with other study methods,
defensible results are most likely to arise when investigators have a thorough understanding of the powers and
limitations of acoustic methods and combine this understanding with the best available science on the biology of
the species in question. This presentation will provide an introductory overview of key elements in the bat acoustic
detection puzzle and associated implications for survey choices, data interpretation, and management
applications.
Bat Mitigation
INFLUENCES ON FORAGING PREFERENCE DEVELOPMENT IN AN ENDANGERED SPECIES: IMPLICATIONS FOR A
NOVEL CONSERVATION STRATEGY
Brigit D Harvey; UCLA; 200 N El Camino Real SPC 395, Oceanside, CA, 92058; 5628957278;
[email protected]; Greg Grether, Debra Shier
Captive breeding and reintroduction programs can be challenged by a limited knowledge of the nutritional ecology
of the target species. This limited knowledge can sometimes result in an animal developing a preference for captive
diets and an inability to effectively forage after it is released. Additionally, historic landscapes are changing due to
the pervasiveness of invasive species that threaten to replace native food sources. A novel management strategy
to counteract these two factors is to expand the diet of a target species to include palatable and nutritious invasive
species, thereby increasing the foraging options of target species upon release and decreasing the spread of
invasive species being consumed. Using the captive breeding program for the endangered Pacific pocket mouse
(Perognathus longimembris pacificus), I am experimentally determining if historic exposure, exposure during early
developmental periods, and nutritional quality of two invasive plants, Erodium botrys and Bromus
madritensis ssp. rubens, influence foraging preferences of Pacific pocket mouse. Preferences are tested using the
standard Cafeteria Method design and the nutritional quality of seeds is determined with near infrared
spectroscopy (NIRS) analysis. This study will impact nutritional protocol and foraging training of Pacific pocket
mice, and insights from this management strategy may be applied to other captive breeding programs with a
similar conflict.
Endangered Species Recovery Student Paper
EVALUATING CONSERVATION STATUS: RISK ASSESSMENT IN LAND MANAGEMENT
Greg D Hayward; US Forest Service; 161 E. 1st Av., Door 8, Anchorage, AK, 99501; 907 743 9537;
Evaluating conservation status of populations has evolved over the past 40 years, providing practitioners with
sophisticated tools to support risk assessment. Recent application of survey sampling techniques combined with
stochastic population modeling for species like greater sage-grouse demonstrate the potential to evaluate
populations at multiple spatial scales, incorporating important population processes. Population modeling
facilitates risk assessments for only a small number of species for which sufficient data are available. The 2012
Forest Service Planning Rule, however, motivates examining conservation status of many populations in the
absence of information to support complex analytics. How should biologists evaluate numerous species to meet
regulatory demands and employ current science? Acceptable approaches must be repeatable, permit clear
documentation, employ current science, and be accessible to agency staff. Published rules of thumb suggest
specific abundance levels to highlight species at risk, but application of these thresholds has been challenged.
Systematic evaluation of species distribution, population and habitat trend, limiting factors and threats, and life
history, in a framework recognizing the key elements of population extinction, represents a tested approach.
Thorough species assessments documenting ecological knowledge supporting the risk assessment communicate
the science supporting the evaluation.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
RESILIENCE OF TROPICAL LANDBIRDS TO STORM DISTURBANCE
Lauren W Helton; The Institute for Bird Populations; PO Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA, 94956; 415-663-1436;
[email protected]; James F. Saracco, Christopher Murray
The Tropical Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (TMAPS) program was established in 2008 to provide
inferences about life history and demographic parameters of landbirds on Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands,
through pulses of mark-recapture effort during each annual wet and dry season. Prior to the wet season of 2015,
Typhoon Soudelor passed over Saipan as a Category 5 super-typhoon. Landbird populations declined between the
dry and wet seasons of 2015, likely because of direct and indirect impacts of Soudelor. Adult survival of Rufous
Fantail and Bridled White-eye declined after the storm, while Golden White-eye populations appeared to change
little. For Rufous Fantail, effects of Soudelor on survival varied by location. Survival was greater at locations with
relatively more native vegetation, and lower in more invaded locations. Temporary emigration also peaked for
Rufous Fantail and Golden White-eye in the period corresponding to Typhoon Soudelor. All three species
rebounded to levels observed prior to Soudelor by the 2016 dry season. These results represent a rare contribution
to our understanding of how bird populations respond to severe disturbances by elucidating vital rates and
changes in abundance while controlling for variation in capture and recapture probabilities associated with the
storm.
Poster Session
EVALUATION OF CALIFORNIA CONDOR (GYMNOGYPS CALIFORNIANUS) GPS TELEMETRY DATA IN RELATION TO
THE ELECTRICAL GRID USING GIS AND RISK SCORING METHODS
Andrea Henke; PG&E; 6111 Bollinger Canyon Rd. Bldg Y 3130I , San Ramon, CA, 94583; 925-451-1469;
[email protected]; Mike Best, Eszter Tompos, Laura Burkholder, Michele Barlow, Glen Lubcke, Joe Burnett, Mike
Stake
Endangered California Condors (Gymnogyps californianus) are often tracked with satellite (Argos) and cellular-
based (GSM) GPS telemetry in California, Baja, Utah, and Arizona. Although poisoning from ingested lead shot is
considered the leading mortality factor in wild populations, condors are also at risk from powerline interactions
including utility line collisions or electrocution events. Analysis of GPS telemetry data from a preliminary subset of
32 condors showed some movement patterns in proximity to utility right-of-ways. Telemetry data collected from
2003 to 2017 from 104 free-flying condors in Central and Southern California was evaluated and compared with
electrical infrastructure (grid maps) to identify fine-scale condor distribution and landscape use patterns in relation
to powerline corridors. Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of the data and multiple factor scoring of the
GIS results enabled prioritization of specific utility facilities for avian-safe retrofits. A Google Earth risk assessment
tool was created that can display snapshots of these analyses. Findings are relevant for condor recovery and
electrical infrastructure management in California, and similar approaches throughout the condor's reintroduced
range could be implemented based on these methods.
Poster Session
TEMPORAL AND SPATIAL ATTRIBUTES OF THE CALIFORNIA CONDOR (GYMNOGYPS CALIFORNIANUS) TO PREDICT
HABITAT USE AND POTENTIAL INTERACTIONS WITH POWER LINES: AN INNOVA
Andi Henke; Pacific Gas & Electric Company; [email protected]; Michele Barlow, Mike Best, Eszter Tompos, Laura
Burkholder, Glen Lubcke, Lori Nielsen, Ryan Nielson, Andrew Telander, Ryan Anderson, Joe Burnett, Mike Stake;
Joseph Brandt
Portions of PG&E's electrical grid fall within the current and historical range of the California condor (Gymnogyps
californianus), one of the world's rarest avian species. The California condor's wingspan (~9-ft) is the largest in
North America, resulting in a risk of overhead power line or utility pole contacts. Over 1.9 million satellite
telemetry locations from 79 California condors in Central and Southern California were used to develop habitat use
models for two condor age classes (subadult vs. adult). Models compared condor use patterns within the condor's
re-introduced California range to desktop-level habitat characteristics using a generalized linear model and
negative binomial regression. Model results predicted future condor movement and expansion areas across
California. These predicted high-use areas along with assessments of condor movements in proximity to power
lines support California condor recovery efforts. The use of these risk assessments minimizes hazards to condors
from electric infrastructure design, construction, operation, and facility maintenance.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds I
THE UPPER RIO GRANDE CONNECTIVITY INITIATIVE
Josh Hicks; The Wilderness Society; 1660 Wynkoop St. #850, Denver, CO, 80202; 3036501148; [email protected];
In 2012, the United States Forest Service adopted a new land management planning rule, governing the
development, revision, and amendment of national forest plans. The rule includes direction to manage national
forest landscapes to maintain and restore ecological connectivity to promote ecosystem resiliency and wildlife
persistence. Multiple government agencies, conservation organizations, and private landowners in Colorado and
New Mexico are working to create a network of connected wildlife habitats across the Upper Rio Grande
Watershed. Three national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and other federal lands make up about 50
percent of the area with private, tribal, and state accounting for the rest. Over 750 miles of waterways support Rio
Grande cutthroat trout and other imperiled fish and provide riparian habitat for federally protected species
including the southwestern willow flycatcher, western yellow-billed cuckoo, and New Mexico meadow jumping
mouse. The area is home to wide-ranging wildlife such as federally listed as threatened Canada lynx and other
carnivores, pronghorn, elk, mule deer, and Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The Carson, Santa Fe, and Rio Grande
national forests and BLM's Rio Grande del Norte National Monument are revising their management plans,
providing an unprecedented opportunity to incorporate coordinated direction to promote cross-boundary wildlife
movement.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
PREVALENCE OF INTERNAL PARASITES DETERMINED BY FECAL TESTING OF WILDLIFE AT A SONOMA COUNTY
REHABILITATION CENTER
Grant A Howard; SRJC/ Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue; 8916 Heritage Dr. , Windsor, CA, 95492; (707)327-8339;
[email protected]; Michelle E. McCorkell, Sarah Bessing, Daniel J. Famini
Internal parasites have a meaningful impact on wildlife health and pose a zoonotic health risk to humans. This
study aimed to measured the overall prevalence of parasites in native Sonoma County populations. Fecal samples
were collected from individuals presented for habilitation at the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue center in 2017.
Evidence of coccidia and pathogenic helminth infestations was determined using centrifugal fecal flotation
technique. Coccidia and pathogenic nematodes (hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms) were both found in
significant numbers. A total of 36% (117/324) of all individuals tested positive. Among positive individuals coccidia
was observed in 61% and one or more nematode species was observed in 50%, with similar trends across species
groups. Opossums had a relatively lower parasite incidence (17%, 14/83), whereas most other mammals including
raccoons, striped skunks, grey foxes and squirrels had a similar rate of overall parasitism (47%, 79/169). Within
avian species a marked difference was seen between raptors (43%, 15/35) and non-raptors (24%, 9/37). This study
confirms the ubiquity of internal parasitism in wildlife presented to a rehabilitation center, highlighting the relative
risk to wildlife professionals and others in close contact with wildlife and their natural habitats.
Poster Session Student Paper
EVALUATING THE HEALTH OF MANAGED WETLANDS IN CALIFORNIA'S CENTRAL VALLEY
Dustin Howland; Humboldt State University; 485 Augusta Street, Woodbridge, ca, 95258; 2097125057;
[email protected]; Sharon Kahara
The National Wildlife Refuge System and our current conservation easement standards are designed in part to
provide adequate habitat for vulnerable taxa. Colusa County in California's Central Valley not only includes the
seven-square-mile Colusa National Wildlife Refuge but also has more conservation easements than any other
county in the state. Most of these easements support managed freshwater wetlands. We evaluated biotic and
abiotic responses to different management and restoration practices at managed wetlands in Colusa County.
Water quality of the inflow, hydrology and temperature of standing water, flood timing and duration, and
vegetation management techniques influence the taxa present in managed wetlands. We will unravel these
variables and describe their effects on the presence of taxa in these wetlands.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II
DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF CLIMATE ON SURVIVAL RATES DRIVE HYBRID ZONE MOVEMENT
Elizabeth A Hunter; University of Nevada Reno; 1664 N. Virginia St., Mail stop 186, Reno, NV, 89557; 4023142742;
[email protected]; Marjorie D. Matocq, Peter J. Murphy, Kevin T. Shoemaker
The effects of climate change on the range limits of hybridizing species depends on the relative fitness of those
species under changing conditions. However, fitness is rarely linked to both climatic conditions and hybrid zone
movement, such that the relationship between climate change and hybrid zone dynamics remains tenuous. We
report how interactions between climate (seasonal precipitation) and competitor densities result in steep
differentials in survival, which in turn drive hybrid zone movement for two woodrat species (Neotoma
fuscipes and N. macrotis) in central California. Using six years of capture-mark-recapture data, we found that the
smaller-bodied species, N. macrotis, and hybrids had survival advantages over the larger-bodied N. fuscipes in the
contact region during dry winters and wet springs. This pattern of differential survival, with N. macrotis having a
consistent advantage over N. fuscipesduring our study period, matched the spatial dynamics of the hybrid zone,
which moved steadily north into N. fuscipes territory (~150 meters in six years). Although all study site areas
experienced the same climatic conditions, competitive effects created a complex spatial pattern of survival
differentials, which in turn influenced hybrid zone movement. Characterization of fitness differentials between
competitors should greatly improve our ability to understand and forecast climate-driven range dynamics.
Wildlife and Climate Change
URBAN MUSKOXEN IN NOME, ALASKA
Claudia Ihl; University of Alaska Fairbanks, NW Campus; 400 E Front Street, Nome, AK, 99762; 907 433 8417;
[email protected]; Hannah Beutler
The city of Nome in northwestern Alaska is increasingly facing issues created by muskoxen near roads and
residences during summer. While muskox populations on the Seward Peninsula overall are on the decline, muskox
numbers in and near Nome have increased. At least 25 dogs have been killed by muskoxen. Airport traffic has been
interrupted by the presence of muskoxen on the runway. Conversely, the presence of muskoxen close to roads
allows for increased opportunities for local wildlife viewing and tourism. The needs of different citizen groups must
be weighed when searching for a solution to Nome's urban muskox problem. During summer 2016, we assessed
vegetation cover, forage quality, and diet selection at muskox feeding sites in the city, at the airport runway, and in
outlying tundra habitats. We hypothesize that recently disturbed former mining areas within the Nome city limits
provide preferred foraging habitat because early successional stages of regrowth offer more preferred foraging
species at potentially higher nutritional value.
Urban Wildlife Management
THE GENETIC LEGACY OF FORTY YEARS OF DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP TRANSLOCATIONS IN NEVADA
Joshua P Jahner; University of Nevada, Reno; 2769 Newburgh Way, Reno, NV, 89523; 7195223055;
[email protected]; Marjorie D. Matocq, Michael Cox, Peregrine Wolff, Mitchell Gritts, Thomas L. Parchman
Desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis nelsoni) is an iconic western North American species that has been heavily
managed throughout its range. Once thought to be the most abundant large mammal in the state of Nevada,
dramatic declines in the mid 1900s reduced population sizes and restricted the range of desert bighorn sheep
primarily to southern Nevada, though a few remnant populations persisted in central Nevada. To restore central
Nevadan populations, the Nevada Department of Wildlife translocated several individuals from multiple southern
Nevada source populations, leading to the admixture of individuals with different genetic ancestry. Here, we used a
genotyping-by-sequencing approach to generate genetic information at several thousand loci for hundreds of
desert bighorn sheep individuals across the state of Nevada. We found evidence for strong population genetic
structure between the source populations in southern Nevada, suggesting that substantial genetic variation still
exists in the state. However, almost all central Nevada populations have genetic signatures that strongly resemble
those from their translocation source populations. Finally, one central Nevadan population was genetically distinct
from all other populations and is likely the last bastion of central Nevadan genetic ancestry remaining in the state.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management
A PROPOSED ANALYSIS OF DEER USE OF JUMPOUT RAMPS AND FELID USE OF CULVERTS ALONG HIGHWAYS
WITH WILDLIFE EXCLUSION FENCING
Alex J Jensen; Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Biology; 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401; 909-283-0756;
[email protected]; John, D, Perrine (Cal Poly), Nancy, Siepel (CalTrans), Morgan, Robertson (CalTrans)
Highways can fragment habitat and be a significant mortality source for mammals. Wildlife exclusion fencing has
been shown to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, but can also prevent animals from escaping from the corridor if
they enter at access roads or at fence ends. Earthen escape ramps, or "jumpouts" have been proposed as a
possible solution, but they remain relatively untested. We documented wildlife response at 4 jumpout ramps in a
2.5-mile wildlife exclusion fence project along Highway 101 near San Luis Obispo, California, from 2012-2017.
Preliminary analysis of the jumpouts indicated that Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionis) used the jumpouts, but the
data were confounded by pseudo replication. Additionally, there appeared to be variation between antlered and
non-antlered deer, which warrants deeper investigation. We also documented wildlife use of culverts. Mountain
lions (Puma concolor) and bobcats (Lynx rufus) are our focal species for the culverts because our study site crosses
a modeled mountain lion corridor in the Los Padres National Forest, and bobcats are an ecologically important
mesocarnivore. We propose a multivariate analysis of the factors influencing carnivore use of culverts including
culvert dimensionality, nearby habitat, and proximity to cover. The goal is to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions while
facilitating regional connectivity. This is a work in progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
PILOT STUDY: AMPHIBIAN OCCURRENCE ON A MULTI-AGED MANAGED FOREST
Bethany Johnson; Collins Pine Company; 500 Main St./PO Box 796, Chester, CA, 96137; 530-258-2111 x7012;
Decades of research has been conducted on amphibians in managed forests, particularly intensively managed
forests. However, relatively little is still known about the use of managed forests by amphibians, especially
California forests practicing multi-aged silviculture. Large knowledge gaps still exist for forest managers for how to
best protect amphibians coming under review or that are currently listed under federal or state Endangered
Species Act in California, leaving forest managers without the proper guidance to avoid incidental take. In 2017,
property-wide amphibian surveys began as part of a long-term amphibian study by Collins Pine Company in multi-
aged silviculture across 95,000 ac of mixed conifer forest. Study sites included meadows, meadow ponds, streams,
and human-made waterholes. In 2017, 33 sites were surveyed for amphibians. Five amphibian and two reptile
species were detected, including two special-status amphibians, and 13 sites had evidence of breeding from three
species. Long-term goals of the study are to (1) Identify where amphibians are occurring and breeding across the
property, (2) Better understand landscape- and site-scale habitat selection, and (3) Assess influence of logging
history on amphibian occurrence. Continuation of surveys will allow for a better understanding of amphibian
occurrence in multi-aged forests of northern California.
Poster Session
MITIGATING FOR NOISE NEAR ROOSTS: WHAT FREQUENCY OF NOISE AND WHICH SPECIES OF BATS?
Dave S Johnston; H. T. Harvey & Associates; 983 University Ave Bldg D, Los Gatos, CA, 95032; 4084483226;
[email protected]; Gabe A. Reyes, Meredith Rodriguez, Kim Briones
Construction noise can negatively impact roosting bats, and mitigation needs to consider the frequency of noise
generated and the hearing sensitivity of bat species at risk. We present two case studies for potential noise impacts
to bats. At one project, a maternity colony of Eptesicus fuscus tolerated high decibel (dB) levels of low frequency
sounds generated by chain saws (75-86 dB) and large graders (85-89 dB) within 100 feet of their roost. However,
the colony abandoned their roost when workers used a high frequency (19-28 kHz) laser surveying instrument,
inaudible to the human ear. At a second project, we recorded ultrasonic noise generated by an auger drill at
distances of 10, 30, 60, and 90 feet. We graphed noise attenuation based on kHz values and used ambient noise
levels to determine buffer zones (e.g., noise recorded at 60 feet attenuated to 22 dB, the ambient noise level for 40
kHz; therefore, the buffer zone would be 60 feet for bats with a peak sensitivity of 40 kHz). Because many bat
species are more sensitive to higher frequency sounds, we suggest that careful attention be given to the high
frequency noise generated by equipment when planning mitigation.
Bat Mitigation
MICROCLIMATE SELECTION OF A HEAT RESTRICTED MAMMAL (APLODONTIA RUFA NIGRA)
Jennie K Jones Scherbinski; 1625 Chester Ave, Arcata, CA, 95521; 3035790016; [email protected]; Tim Bean
Shifts in distribution and abundance in response to climate change have been documented in a wide array of
species and ecosystems. Contemporary methods for predicting how a species will respond to climate change have
focused on creating correlative species distribution models of a species current range and projecting that into
future climate scenarios. This method has generally been successful at identifying distributions at a broad scale,
however, it is unable to assess fine scale distribution, due to a mismatch in spatial scale between climate data and
the scale at which most species experience their environment. As a species that is physiologically limited to areas
with cool, moist climate, the endangered Point Arena mountain beaver (PAMB; Aplodontia rufa nigra) is a model
organism for studying range restrictions based on microclimate variables. Using temperature data loggers and
LiDAR, I created downscaled climate layers and used them to create fine-scale distribution models for PAMB.
Additionally, I used broad scale distribution models to compare the climatic niche of the seven subspecies of
mountain beaver across the range. The fine scale models will help define critical habitat and comparing distribution
models of the different subspecies may provide insight on how the species has responded to past climate change.
Wildlife and Climate Change Student Paper
HABITAT ASSOCIATIONS OF SMALL MAMMALS ALONG AN ELEVATION GRADIENT IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Aviv Karasov-Olson; University of California, Davis; 1057 Academic Surge, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616;
6128192531; [email protected]; Douglas A. Kelt
Habitat associations combine with competitive interactions to play an important role in determining the
composition and structure of small mammal community assemblages. These associations can mediate responses to
climate change and vary across space and through time. Therefore, there is a need for complete studies spanning
an entire gradient. To improve our understanding of this relationship, we completed a comprehensive assessment
of species habitat associations across an extensive elevation gradient spanning 2,500 meters and eight distinct
habitats in southern California. Moreover, we are integrating this assessment with previous survey efforts to
evaluate how small mammal communities and their associations have changed. We used 10x10 trapping grids (15-
meter spacing) with 12-inch Sherman live traps to survey heteromyid and cricetid rodents in paired sites in eight
habitats along this gradient. Preliminary analysis using canonical correspondence analysis, a form of constrained
ordination, revealed strong relationships between community assemblages and key habitat metrics such as canopy
cover, litter depth, soil hardness, and shrub and herbaceous cover. A greater understanding of community
structure and habitat associations is critical to improving our ability to predict the response of small mammal
communities to climate change.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV Student Paper
FROM PLANNING TO ACTION: IMPLEMENTING HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
Annika Keeley; UC Berkeley; 1410 Spruce Ln, Davis, CA, 95616; 530-220-4324; [email protected]; Adina
Merenlender
Habitat corridors have been a solution for sustaining wildlife in fragmented landscapes for more than 40 years and
are now often suggested as a climate adaptation strategy. However, due to the inherent complexity of connectivity
conservation, implementing connectivity through on-the-ground action is often difficult. We reviewed the
literature and conducted a workshop and interviews with conservation professionals throughout California to
explore the challenges and opportunities encountered during connectivity project implementation. Challenges
practitioners face included a lack of data for locating the best corridor sites, short project time-lines, and a lack of
regulations requiring the protection of habitat connectivity. We found evidence that challenges can be overcome in
part through a common vision and effective communication, close collaboration with scientists, and public
enthusiasm for the project. While connectivity models can be difficult to communicate, animal movement paths
are intuitive and therefore effective for eliciting stakeholder participation. Addressing climate adaptation requires
a larger landscape approach and new policy instruments to facilitate long-term species range shifts. We discuss
necessary improvements to climate-wise connectivity planning as part of a framework outlining the key elements
to successful on-the-ground connectivity implementation to guide corridor conservation projects.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals III
INTEGRATING MITIGATION, CARBON SEQUESTRATION, AND ECOSYSTEM SERVICES AT COMMUNITY-RELEVANT
SCALES
Steve Kohlmann; LSA Associates; 157 Park Pl, Point Richmond, CA, 94801; 5105661384; [email protected];
John Ko
Urban sustainability presents intertwined challenges of environmental integrity, economic viability, and social
equity. Sustainable cities need to incorporate social, economic, and environmental aspects into a sustainability
plan that ties together the natural and human environment including clean air, fresh water, safe food supplies,
climate resilience, access to nature, and proximity to recreational opportunities. Governments and municipalities
often treat natural resource mitigation and adaptation in isolation and do not take advantage of potential
synergies for community-level benefits if integrated into a larger context of ecosystem services to human
communities. We present an innovative conceptual framework of multifaceted and interconnected sustainability
planning that explicitly considers ecosystem services (e.g., habitat, carbon, water, climate, etc.) while mitigating for
habitat impacts, to benefit local communities, including marginalized segments of our society and disadvantaged
communities in highly urbanized counties in California. Our framework addresses sustainability of urban ecosystem
services in a comprehensive and regional manner to create a more livable environment, greater environmental
equality, and a climate-resilient urban landscape. We describe the current and potential opportunities for
synergies between advance mitigation planning, soil carbon sequestration, green infrastructure, and disadvantaged
community support.
Urban Wildlife Management
INVESTIGATING RACCOON ABUNDANCE AND HOME RANGE: IMPLICATIONS FOR REINTRODUCING THE
CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG IN YOSEMITE VALLEY
Esther Kukielka; 1703 27th street, Apt3, Sacramento, CA, 95816; 5307608765; [email protected]; Katie
Patrick, Binta Wold, Rachel Mazur, Beatriz Martinez-Lopez
Information regarding the population of northern raccoons (Procyon lotor) in Yosemite National Park is limited.
Close human-raccoon interactions have been reported in Yosemite Valley, raising concerns about transmission of
zoonotic diseases such as baylisascariasis. Due to their dietary habits, raccoons may also effect efforts to
reintroduce vulnerable species such as the federally listed as threatened California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii)
into the park. In collaboration with the National Park Services, this project aims to estimate the raccoon
population, document home ranges, and determine the occurrence of the species in areas of importance for
California red-legged frog conservation in Yosemite Valley. Mark-resight and global positioning system/very high
frequency (GPS/VHF) collaring methods were used to achieve such aims. Preliminary results estimated a lower
abundance of raccoons than expected as well as limited overlap of raccoon and California red-legged frog habitats.
Final results will help assess whether it will be necessary to manage the raccoon population in Yosemite Valley.
Wildlife Health and Disease Ecology Student Paper
THE INFLUENCE OF NATURAL SOUNDS ON CALIFORNIA GROUND SQUIRREL (OTOSPERMOPHILUS BEECHEYI)
VIGILANCE AND PREDATOR DETECTION
My-Lan T Le; California Polytechnic State University; 319 Ramona Drive, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93405; 4084203343;
[email protected]; Christopher, M, Garvin, Clinton, D, Francis
Many animals rely on the acoustical environment for essential functions including predator and prey detection.
Research suggests environmental acoustics can greatly influence the propagation and reception of biologically
relevant sounds, potentially interfering with the ability of animals to interact with their environment. We sought to
determine whether natural sounds influence vigilance and predator detection in California ground squirrels. A field
experiment recorded vigilance and foraging behavior under three noise playback conditions: river rapids, cicada
chorus, and a silent control. Within each treatment, we measured flight initiation distance (FID), which is defined as
the distance that an animal flees from an approaching threat. FIDs were measured using a robotic coyote to
simulate a common predator in the study area. Squirrels were more vigilant during river rapids playback relative to
control and cicada chorus treatments. We found mixed results regarding the influence of sound treatments on
foraging rates and no difference in FIDs among the three treatments. To our knowledge, our results are the first to
demonstrate that natural sounds can influence vigilance. Our results support recent studies demonstrating
increased vigilance in the presence of low-frequency background noise from traffic or wind farms. Whether natural
sounds influence other key behaviors is ripe for future studies.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV Student Paper
DESCRIBING AVIAN SPECIES DISTRIBUTIONS ACROSS THE DROUGHT-STRICKEN CALIFORNIA CENTRAL VALLEY
THROUGH A STATEWIDE COLLABORATIVE MONITORING EFFORT
Stephanie D Leja; Humboldt State University and CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife; 1812 9th Street, Sacramento, CA,
95811; (530) 417-1059; [email protected]; Misty D. Nelson, Lindsey N. Rich, Brett J. Furnas
How have California wildlife and vegetation been affected by multi-year drought conditions? What habitats are
used by wildlife, and how is wildlife distribution and abundance affected by habitat conditions? To address these
questions, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) implemented a large-scale biodiversity
assessment in collaboration with Humboldt State University (HSU), U.C. Berkeley, and numerous partners
throughout the Great Valley and Mojave Desert ecoregions. Tremendous coordination was required to implement
this Terrestrial Species Stressor Monitoring Project, including extensive outreach efforts seeking diverse public and
private landowner participation, particularly in the Central Valley. In 2016 and 2017, CDFW and HSU researchers
collected field data using a variety of biological survey methods (including automated acoustic recorders, camera
traps, avian point counts, and vegetation assessments) to detect terrestrial wildlife and describe varying habitat
types at over 600 sites throughout the two ecoregions. These data were used to describe distribution and habitat
associations for avian species across the Central Valley landscape. The results of this analysis can be used not only
in the context of drought impacts, but also for evaluating baseline conditions and establishing effective resource
assessment and management strategies throughout California.
Wildlife and Climate Change
ESTABLISHING A LONG-TERM MONITORING PROGRAM TO CHARACTERIZE SPATIO-TEMPORAL CHANGES IN BAT
ASSEMBLAGE OF A TYPICAL CENTRAL VALLEY RIPARIAN HABITAT
Jessica Lin; University of California, Davis; Dept of WFCB, One Shields Avenue,, Davis, CA, 95616; 6264355698;
[email protected]; Leila S. Harris, Douglas A. Kelt, Melanie L. Truan, Andrew Engilis, Jr.
Despite their widespread distribution throughout the state, our understanding of California bats remains woefully
incomplete. We are conducting the first year-long systematic survey of bat communities along a typical riparian
corridor in the Central Valley to collect baseline data that could be used to inform future management decisions.
Eight acoustic recording stations equipped with Pettersson D500X full-spectrum detectors are established along a
30 mile span of Putah Creek, a riparian corridor flanked by agricultural lands. Detectors were deployed for one
week per month at each station, and will collect data for a year to capture both seasonal and spatial variations in
the bat assemblage. Recordings will be processed with SonoBat 4, with manual vetting to verify species
identification. We will inventory bat species richness on the creek, characterize spatial and temporal (diel and
seasonal) patterns of bat activities, and evaluate the efficiency of this monitoring protocol so to improve future
monitoring efforts. This information will allow investigations of more sophisticated questions concerning the
ecology and habitat preferences of select species, bat assemblage dynamics in a managed and highly impacted
ecological corridor, and the impact of anthropogenic activities (e.g., agriculture) and climate change on bat
assemblages over time.
Poster Session Student Paper
FEMALE MULE DEER RESPONSE TO FORAGE AVAILABILITY AND PREDATION RISK IN A MOJAVE DESERT SKY-
ISLAND LANDSCAPE
Christopher E Lowrey; USGS; 160 North Stephanie St, Henderson, NV, 89074; 7025644537; [email protected];
Kathleen M. Longshore, David Choate, Daniel Thompson, Jyothy Nagol, Joseph Sexton
Forage availability and predation risk interact to affect habitat use of ungulates across many biomes. Within the
isolated sky-island habitats of the Mojave Desert, increased availability of diverse resources may provide ungulates
in this desert ecosystem with unique opportunities to extend forage availability or mitigate predation risk. We
addressed whether habitat use and foraging strategy of female mule deer (Odocoilus hemionus) responded to
Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI), NDVI rate of change (NDVIR or green-up), or the occurrence of
cougars (Felis concolor) in the Desert National Wildlife Refuge of southern Nevada. Female mule deer used
available green-up primarily in spring, although greening vegetation was also available during other seasons. Mule
deer and cougar shared similar habitat all year, and cougars had a consistent, negative effect on mule deer access
to greening vegetation. A seemingly late parturition date combined with diminishing forage quality during the
lactation period. Our findings suggest female mule deer were unwilling to increase perceived predation risk from
cougars to access the greater resources of Mojave Desert sky-islands.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals III
PRELIMINARY FINDINGS ON THE LIFE HISTORY OF A RARE POPULATION OF TAILED FROGS IN THE TRINITY ALPS
Adrian D Macedo; Humboldt State University; 628 9th Street, Arcata, CA, 95521; 707-272-5518;
The coastal tailed frog (Ascaphus truei) is in the family Leiopelmatidae, which is the most basal lineage of all extant
anurans. The tailed frog is also one of just three anurans known to have internal fertilization. Research on the life
history of this unique amphibian is limited, oviposition sites in the field are rarely found, and larval development is
highly variable (Metter 1967). Metter (1967) identified differences in the larval life cycles between populations.
Inland populations and three Cascade populations had a three-year larval period, whereas populations along the
coastal slopes of the Cascades had a two-year larval period. Since then, Brown (1999) identified populations with a
four-year larval period in northwestern Washington, and Wallace and Diller (1998) found a population with a one-
year life cycle in the coastal redwood region of California. These observations illustrate a wide range in variation of
larval period across populations. The objective of this research was to describe aspects of life history of a rare
population of coastal tailed frogs in the Trinity Alps Wilderness in California. This paper describes preliminary data
on larval predation, larval age at metamorphosis, and both pre-and post-metamorphic functional morphology of
this rare population.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I Student Paper
USING AN INDEPENDENT DOUBLE OBSERVER APPROACH TO ESTIMATE ABUNDANCE OF LIGHT-FOOTED
RIDGWAY'S RAIL (RALLUS OBSOLETUS LEVIPES) IN A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WETLAND
Michael Anguiano; AECOM; 401 West A Street, #1200, San Diego, CA, 92101; 619-610-7654;
[email protected]; Sheila V. Madrak, Cindy Kinkade, Doug Gibson, Barry Lindgren, Paul Doherty
San Elijo Lagoon in San Diego County, California represents a valuable coastal wetland with significant ecological
resources. The San Elijo Lagoon Restoration Plan (SELRP) intends to restore and improve the water quality and
ecological and hydrologic functions of the lagoon. Because San Elijo Lagoon is home to resident and migratory
federally and state-listed bird species, monitoring before and after restoration is critical to evaluating the success
of the restoration. The light-footed Ridgway's rail (Rallus obsoletus levipes, LFRR) is a resident breeder in San
Diego County, and San Elijo Lagoon represents important nesting habitat for this federally and state-listed
endangered species. We conducted LFRR surveys in San Elijo Lagoon between 15 March and 15 June in 2016 and
2017 using an independent double-observer survey approach to increase the number of repeated samples and
improve the overall detection probabilities for this cryptic species. Data were analyzed in Program Mark to
estimate abundance of LFRR in suitable habitat at San Elijo Lagoon. The pre-restoration abundance estimates will
be used as a baseline to compare restoration and post-restoration abundances, with a priori performance criteria
to determine if the SELRP may be deemed a success for LFRR.
Urban Wildlife Management
MONITORING MULTIPLE WILDLIFE SPECIES: WHY AND WHY NOT
Patricia Manley; Us Forest Service; 2480 Carson Rd, Placerville, CA, 95667; 530-902-3431; [email protected];
Monitoring wildlife (and biological diversity overall) has perennially posed a challenge to management agencies.
Most public land agencies have mandates to maintain native species and communities, and yet effective multiple-
species monitoring programs are rare. Cost is often cited as a barrier to monitoring populations of more than a few
species, and yet attempts to justify a few species as representative of many species do not hold up under scientific
scrutiny. Many researchers have dedicated attention to how to overcome this conundrum, and there are multiple
success stories that we can learn from. The Pacific Southwest Region of the United States Forest Service (USFS)
asked a panel of scientists to address this very question "what options exist to be successful in monitoring wildlife
populations, communities, and habitats" and particularly what approaches would meet the intent of the updated
USFS 2012 Planning Rule regulations that call for monitoring ecosystem diversity. The recently released report
outlines objective-driven approaches that have been proven to be efficient and effective at identifying focal species
and sampling larger suites of species that are well-suited to meeting the mandates of public land stewardship.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
RE-EVALUATING TRANSLOCATION OBJECTIVES: ESTABLISHING GROUSE CULTURAL AFFINITY TO THE
RESTORATION SITE TO ACHIEVE SELF-SUSTAINING POPULATION GROWTH
Steven R Mathews; U.S. Geological Survey; Idaho State University; 800 Business Park Dr, Dixon, CA, 95620;
5306505984; [email protected]; Peter, S, Coates, Shawn, P, Espinosa, David, J, Delehanty
Columbian sharp-tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus columbianus, CSTG) is a native prairie grouse of the
western United States that is now extirpated in California and Nevada. During restoration efforts, CSTG are
typically translocated and released into areas where they lack information about lek and nest sites, which could
adversely impact restoration success. We carried out a five-year reintroduction by translocating CSTG from Idaho
to Nevada and evaluated translocation methods aimed at promoting cultural and behavioral identity. Our objective
was to maximize reproduction with the goal of producing immediate offspring at the release site. We present
results of a novel approach using an integrated population model that accounts for demographic differences
among cohorts (i.e., newly translocated versus offspring at the release site). We present population projections of
CSTG using: (1) estimated parameters from translocated CSTG, (2) parameters from their offspring, and (3) lek
count survey data. Importantly, we demonstrate predictable differences in demographic parameters between
translocated GSTG and their offspring, which did not undergo the stressors of translocation and have presumably
experienced no loss of cultural information from the source population. Thus, we found that estimates of
population persistence could be drastically misleading without considering differences among cohorts.
Endangered Species Recovery
FEMALE AGE AND FOREST COMPOSITION INFLUENCE FISHER REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS
Sean M Matthews; Oregon State University; Institute for Natural Resources, 234 Strand Agriculture Hall, Corvallis,
OR, 97331; 5303512418; [email protected]; David, S, Green, John, M, Higley, Rebecca, E, Green,
Kerry, M, Rennie, Caylen, Cummins
Planning for species of conservation concern requires an understanding of the biotic and abiotic factors that
influence fitness. Fitness in wild populations is measured through survival and reproduction. Understanding the
mechanisms that influence these population parameters is integral for elucidating links between habitat and
species conservation. We evaluated the influence of environmental characteristics and forest management impacts
on the reproductive success of fishers (Pekania pennanti) on the timber-managed forests of the Hoopa Valley
Indian Reservation in northwestern California. We evaluated the environmental characteristics in home ranges of
adult female fishers using generalized linear mixed-effects models on three measures of reproductive success:
denning attempts, the number of kits produced, and whether a female successfully raised a litter to weaning.
Results indicate middle-age (4-6 years old) female fishers were the most likely to attempt denning, produced the
greatest numbers of kits, and had the highest probabilities of successfully weaning litters. We also found females
with home ranges comprising higher proportions of forests greater than 80 years of age had an elevated
probability of denning. Managing for high rates of annual female survival and retaining older forests are key
components to the persistence and recovery of fisher populations.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II
ROAD MORTALITY MITIGATION: THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MESH FENCING VERSUS ANIMEX FENCING
Carlos Milburn-Rodriguez; Scales Nature Park; [email protected]; Steve, M, Bega, Jeff Hathaway, Dean
Swensson, Darell Moffat, Kari Gunson, Travis McCleary
Roads built through or near wetlands cause significant mortality of reptiles and amphibians and create barriers to
migration and dispersal (Aresco 2005). Animal exclusion fencing that keeps animals off roads combined with
wildlife crossing structures can reduce these impacts. Many types of exclusion structures exist. However, little
research is known about what fencing types work best to exclude animals from roads. Therefore, the objective of
this research was to evaluate the behavioral response of amphibians and reptiles to two types of commonly used
fencing: mesh and Animex. A total of 14 turtles, 17 snakes, and 20 frogs were placed in an enclosure composed of
two sides of 0.25-inch mesh fence and two sides of Animex. Each individual animal was continuously monitored,
and its behavior, location, and interaction with the two fencing types were continuously recorded. The data were
then analyzed to calculate (1) the percentage of time an animal spent within each fence zone, (2) the number of
breaches and climbing attempts, and (3) the number of interactions (jumping, poking, clawing) with fencing.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I
HIGH-RESOLUTION GPS TRACKING OF HUNTERS AND BLACK-TAILED DEER IN CALIFORNIA
Alex McInturff; UC Berkeley; 1237 Rhode Island Street, San Francisco, CA, 94107; 2054473741;
[email protected]; Kaitlyn M. Gaynor, Justin Brashares
Every year, millions of people in the United States become active participants in wildlife communities by hunting
deer. While the consequences of hunting on deer population dynamics have been well studied, we know
surprisingly little about how hunting shapes patterns of wildlife movement and behavior. Recent developments in
GPS technology now allow the collection of very high-resolution movement and activity data that can shed light on
these questions. At the 5,300 acre Hopland Research and Extension Center in northern California, we have
collected data from 360 hunters with wearing GPS units set at 5-second intervals. In collaboration with the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), we have also begun deploying GPS collars on 20 legally
huntable black-tailed deer (O. hemionus columbianus) bucks, as well as 40 does. Collection of GPS data from both
hunters and deer support three major analyses. First, we examine whether and how deer alter their behavior and
movement during the course of the hunting season. Second, by collecting spatial data on both human predators
and prey, we examine the behavioral responses of deer to hunters in real time at an unprecedented resolution.
Finally, we use the spatial data collected from hunters and their kill sites to develop a statewide spatial model of
hunting pressure that will help CDFW improve the precision and application of its game management strategies.
Poster Session
ESTIMATING THE EFFECTS OF RESTORATION TO DENSITY OF BELDING'S SAVANNAH SPARROW (PASSERCULUS
SANDWICHENSIS BELDINGI) IN A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COASTAL WETLAND
Michael Anguiano; AECOM; 401 West A Street, #1200, San Diego, CA, 92104; 6196107654;
[email protected]; James McMorran, Sheila V. Madrak, Cindy Kinkade, Doug Gibson, Barry Lindgren,
Paul Doherty, James McMorran
The San Elijo Lagoon (SEL) Ecological Reserve located in San Diego County, California contains one of San Diego's
largest coastal wetlands and supports a number of sensitive resident and migrant avian species. The Belding's
savannah sparrow (BSSP), a California state-listed endangered species, is a non-migratory resident that nests in
dense marsh vegetation found at SEL. The SEL Restoration Project will commence December 2017 to improve
physical and ecological functions at SEL. One objective of the project is to enhance the tidal prism of SEL which
would result in loss of BSSP nesting habitat - temporary loss of greater than 50 percent and permanent loss of 15
percent. To establish a baseline density in SEL, we monitored the pre-restoration presence of BSSP during the
breeding season (March through May) and used distance sampling analyses to estimate density. These data will be
compared to monitoring data from BSSP during restoration and post-restoration to determine if restoration affects
BSSP density in SEL. It is anticipated BSSP will respond to the restoration as they do to seasonal variability, shifting
and contracting territory size to accommodate available habitat. We use specific performance standards
established a priori to evaluate the success of the restoration to BSSP density.
Poster Session
ENGAGING THE PUBLIC THROUGH A COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE: CALIFORNIA NATURALISTS AND CLIMATE
STEWARDS
Adina Merenlender; University of California; 4070 University Road, Hopland, CA, 95449; 7077441424;
The California Naturalist Program (CalNat) is a new education program focused on communicating environmental
science across cultural boundaries. Participants become certified California Naturalists by completing a 40+ hour
course that combines classroom and field experiences in natural history, including information on plant and wildlife
communities, communication training, and community service. Survey based research from over 300 California
Naturalists from diverse ages and backgrounds revealed significant increases in participants' ecological knowledge,
scientific skills, and belief in their ability to address environmental issues. To address the need for contemporary
and locally relevant climate change science and opportunities to participate in local solutions, plans are underway
for a climate education and service program that will: (1) increase access to up-to-date climate science learning
locally relevant for California's bio-regions to improve climate literacy through a CalNat course module and
advance trainings; (2) improve self-efficacy and agency to improve science communication, civic engagement, and
conservation action on the ground; and (3) establish a community of Climate Stewards as a subset of the California
Naturalists community of practice for life-long shared learning. Ultimately, this training will prepare participants to
better engage with local climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences
EFFECTS OF DISTURBANCE ON MIGRATION BEHAVIOR OF A LARGE MIGRATORY UNGULATE
Jerrod L Merrell; University of Nevada, Reno; 11460 Silver Lane, Stagecoach, NV, 89429; 7752251857;
[email protected]; Kelley, M, Stewart, Shelley, D, Blair
Many animal species use migration behavior as an adaptive strategy to access favorable forage conditions, increase
fitness, and avoid predators. For ungulates in temperate areas migration consists of movements between high-
elevation summer range and low-elevation winter range. Anthropogenic and natural disturbance of migration
routes alters resource selection and can lead to population decline. A population of migratory mule deer
(Odocoileus hemionus) and black tail deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
navigate a range of disturbances during migration. These disturbances include recreational pressures associated
with developed campsites, OHV trails, and a hunting season that temporally overlaps the onset of migration. Sierra
Pacific Timber company (SPI) has operations in this area as does Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) with
its Upper American River hydroelectric system. Paved and unpaved roads are ubiquitous throughout this area. We
will use a Brownian Bridge Movement Model to identify the migration corridor. We will then evaluate how
movement speed and tortuosity is effected when encountering different types of disturbance patches. This is a
work-in-progress
Poster Session Student Paper
SNOWY PLOVER NEST DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT CHANGES FOLLOWING COASTAL DUNE RESTORATION
Jamie K. Miller; Point Blue Conservation Science; 205 North H Street Suite 217, Lompoc, CA, 93436; 805-215-9881;
[email protected]; Daniel P. Robinette
Invasive plants impact coastal dune ecosystems worldwide, stabilizing dune habitat and reducing the dynamics
associated with an early successional state. Manual removal, herbicidal spray, and burning are employed to
remove invasive plants from dune habitats. Pernicious infestations may require mechanical contouring to remove
dead vegetation and extensive root systems. We assessed the effectiveness of coastal dune contouring in central
California by monitoring the nesting response of western snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus nivosus), which rely on
early successional dune habitat. Two sections of beach were mechanically contoured in 2014 and 2015, opening
30.5 hectares of previously marginal habitat for nesting snowy plovers. We used a before-after-control-impact
(BACI) design to investigate changes in vegetation cover, nest distribution, nest density, and viewshed at two
contoured sites, two sites adjacent to the contoured sites, and a control site. Nest distribution clearly shifted from
adjacent sites into newly contoured sites, and nest densities overall increased at contoured sites. Vegetation cover
increased and viewshed significantly decreased following contouring, further indicating that vegetation cover was
increasing in years post-contouring. Beach contouring effectively creates early successional habitat that persists for
at least two to three years. However, maintenance through contouring is likely required at five-year intervals.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III
TULE ELK HABITAT SELECTION AT THE LOCAL AND LANDSCAPE SCALE
Adam S Mohr; Humboldt State University ; 628, Arcata, CA, 95501; 608-769-5980; [email protected]; Tim, T,
Bean
Tule elk are an iconic subspecies endemic to the warm, dry climate of the Central Valley in California. After
experiencing a population bottleneck of <10 individuals in the late 19th century, their populations have steadily
grown since widespread reintroduction efforts began in the 1970s. Little research has been done into tule elk
habitat selection, nor made use of GPS-collar technology and our improved understanding of resource selection
modeling. I used location data collected between 2005-2017 from GPS-collared tule elk located in and around the
Carrizo Plain National Monument to model the way elk respond to different environmental factors. I related their
locations to a variety of covariates including: vegetation type, vegetation structure, topography, grazing allotments,
solar farm installations, distance to roads, and distance to water. I compared use locations to available locations at
the local and landscape scale. My results will help managers address questions regarding spatial ecology of tule elk
and act as a blueprint for answering similar questions for other understudied elk populations.
Poster Session Student Paper
WESTERN RED BAT (LASIURUS BLOSSEVILLII) ACTIVITY PATTERNS IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Trevor A Moore; CSU Chico, Department of Biological Sciences; Holt Hall, Rm 205, Chico, CA, 95929; 5309135379;
[email protected]; Cameron Divoky, Colleen A. Hatfield , Shahroukh Mistry
Lasiurus blossevillii is a tree-roosting bat found throughout the western United States. In California, the species is
known to be present year-round in the Central Valley. However, the local seasonal migratory patterns in the state
are not well understood. The aim of this study is to examine the migratory patterns of L. blossevillii in Northern
California. Using acoustic data, we acquired the activity patterns of L. blossevillii from three different habitat types:
an agricultural area in the valley at 60m asl, canyon and ridge oak woodland at 600m, and a pine-juniper forest at
1554m. Long-term acoustic monitoring equipment was placed at each site to record nightly echolocation calls of
bats and the recordings were analyzed to identify species using SonoBat software. Lasiurus blossevilli had the
highest levels of activity during the months of June and July across all three sites, with the higher elevation pine-
juniper forest having the greatest activity. Both of the lower elevation sites retained low levels of activity
throughout the winter suggesting temperatures warm enough for occasional foraging. The agricultural site in the
valley showed a late-year increase in activity during October and November, possibly indicative of migratory
activity.
Poster Session
IDENTIFYING RESTING LOCATIONS OF SMALL, ELUSIVE, FOREST-DWELLING CARNIVORES USING GPS CLUSTERS
Katie M Moriarty; USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station; 1926 NW Lance Way, Corvallis, OR,
97330; 5303680658; [email protected]; Caylen Cummins, Bruce Hollen
Conservation of wildlife populations is aided when managers can identify and retain features correlated with
individual fitness. Fishers (Pekania pennanti) are forest-dependent carnivores that select habitat at multiple scales,
including rest and den structures (4th order selection). We collected location data intermittently at 15-minute
intervals on nine adult fishers in the Oregon Cascades from 2015-2017. We used algorithms to identify periods with
minimal movement and activity. From these clusters, we created an area that we presumed encompassed the
resting structure ("rest zone"). We tested our assumption with very high frequency (VHF) telemetry and by
randomly selecting rest zones and deploying remote cameras. Of the areas with both VHF and global positioning
system (GPS) telemetry, 42% of rest zones had a VHF identified resting structure. We photographed fishers at 92%
of the monitored rest zones. We identified 566 rest zones, 63 +/- 24 (mean +/- standard deviation) per individual
and 22.3 +/- 6.9 per individual per month. Reuse estimates were >46%, contrasting with reported estimates on five
occasions within a month, and 10% were used by >1 GPS collared fisher. Average nearest neighbor rest zones
distances were 378 meters (maximum = 2.8 kilometers). Our novel application using fine-scale GPS data provided a
complementary method to quantify the habits and habitat of an elusive forest carnivore.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II
THREATENED SAN CLEMENTE BELL'S SPARROW NESTS IN NEW MICRO-HABITATS AS THE ISLAND RECOVERS
FOLLOWING GOAT REMOVAL
Steven A Munoz; Institute for Wildlife Studies; 4417 McClintock Street, Apt.9, San Diego, CA, 92116; 573-330-6720;
[email protected]; Susan, Meiman, Emma, DeLeon, Melissa, A, Booker, Andrew, S, Bridges
The San Clemente Bell's sparrow (Artemisiospiza belli clementeae), a federally threatened sub-species, was thought
to nest almost exclusively in California boxthorn (Lycium californicum) habitat, which was thought to limit long-
term population viability. Recent monitoring efforts documented Bell's sparrows nesting in new habitats. We
investigated whether nest sites have similar vegetative structure and shrub cover in boxthorn habitat as in newly
occupied habitats. From 2014-2016, we sampled 215 Bell's sparrow nests and supporting habitats. We measured
shrub cover and vegetation height in a 15m radius around each nest and nest substrate height. We found shrub
cover was significantly (F2, 39.5 =16.6, P<0.001) greater surrounding nests located in sagebrush (Artemisa sp.;
mean=38.1, n=29) and boxthorn (mean=44.9, n=166) habitats than non-boxthorn/non-sagebrush (mean=25.5,
n=20) habitats. Average height of vegetation also differed (F2, 33.5=42.0, P<0.001) among habitat categories and
was highest in sagebrush (mean= 28.3cm, n=29) and lowest in boxthorn (mean=16.8cm, n=166). Nest shrubs were
significantly (F2, 35.2=22.8, P<0.001) shorter in boxthorn (mean=49.8cm, n=166) and non-boxthorn/non-sagebrush
(mean=53.6cm, n=20) habitats than in sagebrush (mean=80.9cm, n=29). Our findings reveal Bell's sparrows select
more diverse nest micro-habitats than previously thought, which may reduce vulnerability of Bell's sparrow
population to stochastic events and improve prospects for this sub-species' recovery.
Poster Session
CITIZEN SCIENCE AND SHARED PERSONAL NARRATIVES: KEYS TO COMMUNICATING SCIENCE TO DIVERSE
AUDIENCES
Lisa A Murphy; NPS - Yosemite; 712 E. Jackson St, Sonora, CA, 95370; 831-227-8923; [email protected];
Connecting data with an experiential activity and sharing personal experience narratives are powerful ways to
engage diverse audiences in science. Personal stories give people something to which they can relate. Once they
have connected through personal stories, you can engage them by sharing data. Inviting the public to become
directly involved with a project and create a shared experience is also powerful. We did just that by developing an
auditory bat monitoring citizen science project in Yosemite. We found the combination of personal experience and
shared narratives to be incredibly successful at engaging young to old across a diversity of cultures.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences
ON THE ROLLING BEHAVIOR OF THE MOUNT LYELL SALAMANDER: ESCAPE STRATEGY OR SCUTTLEBUTT?
Nicolette L Nelson; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 2097683882; [email protected];
The Mount Lyell salamander (Hydromantes platycephalus) occupies high-elevation talus slopes in the Sierra
Nevada. Passive rolling behavior of H. platycephalus observed by Garcia-Paris and Deban (1995) was proposed as
an effective antipredator mechanism given the salamanders' rugged habitats. While the authors described
methods used to test H. platycephalus for rolling behavior, they excluded important details such as the level of
stimulus required for each salamander to roll. Therefore, I tested for the presence of rolling behavior in H.
platycephalus in situ. In order to replicate the tests performed by Garcia-Paris and Deban (1995), I placed
salamanders on a slanted surface and repeatedly tapped their heads and sides. After testing almost twice as
many H. platycephalus individuals (n=20) as Garcia-Paris and Deban (1995, n = 12), I observed 4.6 times less body
coiling (n=4) and did not witness any instances of passive rolling. I recommend additional tests to determine
whether stronger stimuli will elicit passive rolling behavior in H. platycephalus. However, I propose that the
behavior is less widespread than Garcia-Paris and Deban (1995) implied, and that it is likely an attempt to escape
from falling rocks rather than predators.
Poster Session Student Paper
WILDLIFE PLANNING UNDER THE 2012 PLANNING RULE: KEY IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES
Peter Nelson; Defenders of Wildlife; 514 E. Cottonwood St., Bozeman, MT, 59715; 2062900267;
In 2012, the United States Forest Service (USFS) adopted a new land management planning rule, governing the
development, revision, and amendment of national forest plans. Detailed guidance supporting implementation of
the rule was finalized in January 2015. In addition, a national advisory committee was established to support
implementation of the planning rule to achieve social, economic, cultural, and ecological objectives. Over 20
national forests are currently revising their forest plans under the new rule. Several key implementation issues
associated with the rule's wildlife conservation standards have been identified, including the interpretation of
requirements to develop forest plan components that maintain viable populations of species of conservation
concern (SCC) and contribute to the recovery of species listed under the federal Endangered Species Act.
Specifically, there has been considerable variation across forests in methods for determining the occurrence of SCC
on national forest lands, and differing interpretations of key decision-making criteria such as "capability to persist"
and "substantial concern." In addition, forests and stakeholders have wrestled with operationalizing complex
concepts associated with the "natural range of variation" and adaptive management. The USFS is working with
forest planning partners and the advisory committee to identify, resolve, and adapt to emerging implementation
challenges.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
ANALYSIS OF ULTRASONIC BAT RECORDINGS FOR INCIDENTAL RODENT CALL DETECTIONS
David S Newton; CDFW; 1812 9th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95811; 916-833-9477; [email protected];
Katelyn P Harrison
During a two-year drought study conducted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, ultrasonic recordings
were collected at over 600 locations throughout the Great Valley and Mojave Desert ecoregions. These recordings
targeted chiropteran species' calls ranging from 6-125 kHz, and over three terabytes of triggered, full-spectrum
recordings were produced. During review of the data, many incidental recordings of potential rodent calls were
also observed. Given the importance of rodent species to biological communities as low-level consumers, prey, and
seed dispersers, development of techniques to discriminate these vocalizations was warranted. A representative
selection of triggered recordings were analyzed using the Kaleidoscope Pro 4.3 Cluster Analysis tool, a novel
technology that uses Hidden Markov Models to group similar acoustic signals. Clusters that best fit known rodent
vocalizations were refined and reapplied to the entire data set. Manual analysis of the results, as well as analysis of
recordings initially attributed to audible bat species, have verified rodent detections, including the genera
Onychomys and Peromyscus. Further work is necessary to expand California rodent call libraries, but with the
existing data available, the potential value of this emerging technique to detect ultrasonic and near-ultrasonic
rodents has been demonstrated.
Poster Session
ECOLOGICAL INTERACTIONS IN A HYBRID ZONE BETWEEN TWO SPECIES OF WOODRAT (GENUS NEOTOMA)
Danny Nielsen; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N, Virginia Street, Reno, NV, 89557;
[email protected]; Marjorie Matocq
Ecotones are areas of environmental transition where multiple biotic communities coincide and can provide insight
to study organismal response to environmental change. Hybrid zones occurring at such ecotones provide ideal
natural laboratories to study the mechanisms that generate and maintain biological diversity. We present research
from a hybrid zone between two species of woodrat in the genus Neotoma, and that occurs between western
Mojave Desert and southern Sierra woodland communities in southern California. Specifically, we investigated
dietary preference and spatial distribution of Neotoma lepida, Neotoma bryanti, and their respective hybrids
across a sharp ecotone in southern California where these species meet in secondary contact. We detected
differential dietary preference between these species for two different habitat-specific plant species that are
known to contain anti-herbivory properties. The spatial distribution of these two woodrat species largely
corresponded to the ecotonal boundary. However, N. lepida was present in the alternative habitat more frequently
than N. bryanti in the reciprocal habitat. Woodrats with hybrid genotypes were distributed more evenly across the
study site. Overall, we find ecological segregation in these two species of woodrat, and evidence for differential
adaptation across this sharp ecotone.
Poster Session Student Paper
COARSE AND FINE-FILTER ASSESSMENTS UNDER THE FOREST SERVICE'S 2012 PLANNING RULE
Barry Noon; Colorado State University; 1474 Campus Delivery Attn: Dr. Barry Noon, Fort Collins, CO, 80523;
9704917905; [email protected];
Under the 2012 Planning Rule, the United States Forest Service is obligated to assess and manage for ecological
integrity as well as the viability of individual species. Effective biodiversity conservation planning requires an
appropriate balance between habitat-based, coarse-filter approaches and insights from fine-filter, species-level
assessments and monitoring. Striking a balance between coarse-filter and fine-filter assessments of biological
diversity has challenged land managers for decades. We suggest a combined coarse-filter and fine-filter approach,
with the latter focusing on monitoring threatened, at-risk, and rare species, along with a modest number of focal
species selected with complementary and comprehensive functional roles. Systematic approaches exist for
identifying and prioritizing a subset of species for fine-filter assessment and monitoring. Indirect estimates of a
species' status and trend based on its spatial distribution can provide defensible surrogate measures. Focusing on
the dynamics of species' distributions, rather than traditional measures of population size and growth rate,
increases the efficiency of broad-scale monitoring programs. Advancements in wildlife monitoring, based on
detection/non-detection data, including the use of sign surveys, genetic evaluation, and historical presence-
absence survey data decrease the cost of monitoring changes in distribution, which can be inferred from the
proportion of sample units at which species are detected.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
SPATIALLY-EXPLICIT MODELING OF COMMON RAVEN DENSITY AND OCCURRENCE ACROSS SAGEBRUSH
ECOSYSTEMS: IMPLICATIONS FOR GREATER SAGE-GROUSE REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS
Shawn T. O'Neil; U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center; 800 Business Park Dr. Suite D., Dixon,
CA, 95620; 701-741-4361; [email protected]; Peter S. Coates, Brianne E. Brussee, David J. Delehanty, Pat Jackson,
Kristy B. Howe, Lee Foster, Ann Moser
Anthropogenic subsidies often contribute to population increases in generalist predators. The common raven
(Corvus corax) is a ubiquitous predator in sagebrush ecosystems and potentially contributes to reduced nest
success and recruitment in greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). Ravens have expanded in distribution
and abundance, in large part due to increased resource subsidies from human infrastructure and land-use
activities. Yet, specific influential environmental covariates driving this expansion are still largely unknown. We
quantified raven density and occurrence in Great Basin sagebrush ecosystems during 2007-2016, using >15,000
point-count surveys to estimate detection probability and account for imperfect detection. We used Bayesian
hierarchical occupancy models to estimate probability of raven occurrence, conditional on natural and
anthropogenic landscape covariates. Raven occurrence across all surveys was ~0.80, and raven density commonly
exceeded 0.50 ravens per square kilometer. Raven occurrence was greatest at low elevations with open cover
types and greener vegetation and was strongly associated with agriculture, road densities, landfills, and roadside
rest areas. Raven detections also increased when livestock were present. Our results provide empirical evidence
that anthropogenic subsidies drive widespread raven occurrence throughout the Great Basin, enabling better
understanding of potential interactions between raven and sage-grouse populations across broad landscapes.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II
WHAT'S IN A PELLET? A DIET ANALYSIS OF DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS USING PELLETS IN SOUTH
HUMBOLDT BAY, CALIFORNIA
Karen Oakden; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 9165170470; [email protected];
There are many different ways of studying diet and how the diet of certain organisms will impact different
ecosystems in the world. Studying diet can be important to understand the interactions between animals and the
world around them. The Double-Crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), is a type of seabird that subsists on
primarily fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic fauna in their foraging habitat. Recently in East Sand Island, OR there
has been evidence that assisted in the implementation of a management plan to kill and harass the cormorants at
their colony due to the cormorants eating a lot of endangered Salmonid species in that area. I have started to
conduct an overall diet analysis of Double-Crested Cormorants to determine if a management plan on cormorants
should be implemented in Humboldt Bay, CA. I have dissected pellets that the cormorants routinely regurgitated
and will be primarily focusing on the identifying the otoliths, fish ear bones, down to species to see if the
cormorants' diet consists of large proportions of endangered species in the area. This is an ongoing study that will
conclude in December of 2017.
Poster Session Student Paper
USE OF NONINVASIVE DNA TO DETERMINE GENETIC SUBDIVISIONS AMONG ECOREGIONAL COYOTE
POPULATIONS IN THE SIERRA NEVADA
Julia D Owen; University of California, Davis; UC Davis, One Shields Ave / Old Davis Rd, Davis, CA, 95616;
6199330774; [email protected]; Cate, B, Quinn, Benjamin, N, Sacks
Coyotes (Canis latrans) are generalist predators continuously distributed in California across a wide range of
ecological landscapes. Their presence has been shown to impact population dynamics of specialist species with
more restricted distributions. Previous data from 2011-2015 suggests coyotes occupy high-elevation portions of
the Sierra Nevada range where a small population of an endangered species candidate Sierra Nevada red fox
(Vulpes vulpes necator; SNRF) occurs. However, it is unclear whether these high-elevation coyotes are part of a
stable population, or transient individuals that opportunistically move upslope during years of low snowpack. To
answer this question and determine whether the Sierra Nevada range is a significant factor structuring coyote
populations, we noninvasively collected DNA from coyotes throughout the greater Sierra Nevada region, including
the western slope, the high-elevation crest, and east side. For a wider geographic reference, we also included
samples from the western foothills and the Great Basin in Nevada. We used microsatellites to genotype the
samples and analyzed them for subdivisions related to elevation and geographic region. We discuss implications of
coyote presence and dispersal into SNRF range and propose further research steps.
Poster Session Student Paper
VARIATION IN APPARENT SURVIVAL ESTIMATES OF WESTERN SNOWY PLOVER IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Nora C Papian; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 7143266571; [email protected];
Mark A Colwell, Daniel C Barton
Survival is the most critical vital rate for population viability in birds. However, survival is difficult to study and
manage in many species, especially those that are threatened or endangered. We used mark-resight observations
of uniquely banded snowy plovers (Charadrius nivosus nivosus), a population listed as threatened under the federal
Endangered Species Act, to quantify seasonal and annual variation in survival. The return of individuals to non-
breeding flocks was high (75-81%) between years. Apparent survival varied seasonally, with the lowest estimates
(0.881 +/- 0.01) occurring during late winter (i.e., February-March) and highest during the breeding season (0.967
+/- 0.005). Annual apparent survival estimates were higher than previously reported for other populations along
the Pacific Coast, with estimates similar to return rates. We discuss the conservation implications of our findings in
the context of population viability and management of factors that may affect seasonal variation in survival.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III Student Paper
EFFECTS OF FOREST MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES ON BAT HABITAT USE
Carolyn P Paul; Temple University; 1900 N 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19122; 6095582581;
[email protected]; Lisa Powers, Christopher Hauer, Shannon Henry, Tim Haydt, Brent J. Sewall
Bats are currently facing a host of threats, including habitat destruction, wind power, and white nose syndrome.
With drastic population declines and impending species listings, it is imperative to gain a greater understanding of
the habitat needs of bats. Although the habitat preferences of many bat species have been well studied, it remains
unclear what impacts current forestry practices, such as prescribed fire and thinning, have on bat species
composition and richness in a managed, temperate forest community. The objective of this study is to assess the
impacts of forest management techniques on bat habitat use at Fort Indiantown Gap-National Guard Training
Center in south-central Pennsylvania. Data on forest composition, management treatments, and bat species
presence has been collected on site since 2003. Additional presence data was collected using a combination of
passive acoustic monitoring, mist-netting, and radio telemetry to examine changes in bat species composition
within different forest treatment types over time. We hypothesize that bat habitat use will positively correlate with
the use of forest management techniques. Investigating this relationship can prove beneficial to further our
understanding of bat habitat use, and to better inform land managers on best practices needed to manage bat
roosting and foraging habitats.
Poster Session
CO-PRODUCING SCIENCE TO SUPPORT CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION
Kat W Powelson; California Landscape Conservation Cooperative; 3020 State University Drive East Modoc Hall,
Suite 2007 , Sacramento, CA, 95819; 916.278.9448 ; [email protected]; Claudia Mengelt, Debra
Schlafmann
The California Landscape Conservation Cooperative (CA LCC) is a management-science partnership created to
inform and promote integrated science, natural resource management, and conservation to address impacts of
climate change and other stressors within and across California's ecosystems. This novel program has spent the last
five years working to improve communication and coordination between scientists and resource managers to
enhance conservation outcomes. This presentation focuses on a collection of case studies that highlights the
diversity of challenges, strategies, and benefits of incorporating co-production of science into natural resource
conservation.
Wildlife and Climate Change
ASSESSING SELECTIVE INTROGRESSION OF NONNATIVE RED FOX GENES INTO THE GENOMIC BACKGROUND OF
THE NATIVE SACRAMENTO VALLEY RED FOX
Sophie Preckler-Quisquater; University of California, Davis; 1311 Tulane Drive, Davis, CA, 95616; 4152694018;
[email protected]; Stacy, Anderson, Michael, Buchalski, Ben, N, Sacks
The Sacramento Valley red fox (SVRF, Vulpes vulpes patwin) is endemic to the northern Central Valley of California,
and is considered a State Species of Greatest Conservation Need due to the apparent decline in abundance from
historic levels, the recognition of its low genetic effective population size (n=50), and its restricted and sparse
distribution. Along with habitat loss, hybridization with nonnative red foxes of captive-bred origin has been
identified as one of the most significant threats to the persistence of the SVRF. Through genetic monitoring (2007-
2017) and the use of microsatellite markers, we observed low level (neutral) gene flow across a stable zone of
hybridization. However, if particular genes are positively selected for across the two populations, they could be
transferred at a far greater rate than were observed for neutral genes and become fixed. Possible genes under
selection may include those associated with the nonnative population's long history in captivity (e.g. tameness), or
those conferring local adaptation in the native SVRF. Selective introgression of nonnative genes could reduce long-
term fitness of the SVRF and affect its role in the greater ecological community. Thus, we propose using a genome-
wide approach to elucidate potential candidate genes under selection in this system.
Poster Session Student Paper
THE STATUS AND TRAJECTORY OF A REMNANT NATIVE RED FOX POPULATION IN THE CENTRAL SIERRA NEVADA
Cate B Quinn; University of California, Davis; One Shields Ave / Old Davis Rd, Davis, CA, 95616; 703-489-5350;
[email protected]; Benjamin N Sacks
The small size of critically endangered populations causes them to be inherently volatile. Minor perturbations can
rapidly shift demography and genetic composition, potentially outpacing the capacity of conservation research and
management to detect and respond. Here we summarize seven years of noninvasive genetic sampling of an insular
population of Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator), estimated at <10 breeding pairs, in the central Sierra
Nevada. We used noninvasive fecal DNA approaches to monitor genetic and demographic aspects of the
population during 2010-2017, including genetic assignment, pedigree reconstruction, and temporal and spatial
capture-recapture density estimation. Notably, at the start of our study we observed no evidence of nonnative
introgression over the past century. Yet in 2012, we began detecting emigration of nonnative foxes originating
from the Great Basin region and subsequent interbreeding with native foxes. This unexpected series of events
afforded an opportunity to observe how fundamental characteristics of the population shifted following
outbreeding, including observed vital rates, density, genetic composition and diversity, and distribution limits. Our
results highlight the dynamism of small populations and the importance of maintaining long-term monitoring
programs.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals III Student Paper
FORAGING HABITAT OF BATS ACROSS MARIN COUNTY OPEN SPACES
Gabriel A Reyes; US Geological Survey; 800 Business Park Dr, Suite D, Dixon, CA, 94530; (510)207-9498;
[email protected]; Catey D Ritchie, Elizabeth M Edson, Brian J Halstead
Bat species distributions are affected by landscape level and microhabitat features that operate on many scales.
Understanding habitat characteristics that drive species richness of bats or restrict habitat suitability for certain
species may provide for opportunities to improve habitat management for bats. We conducted a multi-species
occupancy study across lands managed by four open-space agencies in Marin County, California, where 13 bat
species potentially occur. We placed acoustic detectors (Pettersson D500x) at 50 randomly selected points across
the study area, for at least seven nights per location, to examine bat occupancy in relation to landscape-level and
microhabitat covariates. Detection probabilities and occupancy varied across the region by both species-specific
characteristics (e.g., call intensity) and habitat covariates (e.g., vegetative clutter and broad habitat type).
Understanding the distributions of bat species in relation to habitat features can inform habitat management
actions to support individual species, guilds, or overall species richness across the region. Multi-species occupancy
analysis provides a powerful tool to examine the relationship between habitat covariates and bat distributions
using acoustic monitoring. Wider adoption of this method will provide a more complete understanding of how bat
communities use the landscape.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV
MULTI-SPECIES TO MULTI-TAXA: SIMULTANEOUSLY EVALUATING MAMMAL AND SONGBIRD DISTRIBUTIONS IN
THE MOJAVE DESERT
Lindsey N Rich; University of California, Berkeley; 6 Mulford Hall, Berkeley, CA, 94720-3114; 970-214-1442;
[email protected]; Brett Furnas, Justin Brashares, Misty Nelson, Steven R. Beissinger
Developing management strategies aimed at addressing the multitude of threats and stressors faced by wildlife
requires an empirical understanding of species' distributions and their changes over time. Consequently, in 2016,
the California Department of Fish and Wildlife initiated Terrestrial Species Stressor Monitoring (TSM) surveys
across drought-stricken regions of the state. TSM surveys collect baseline wildlife occurrence data and associations
with climate and habitat features. As part of this effort, we deployed camera traps and acoustic detectors at 218
sites across the Mojave Desert ecoregion. We used data from these sensors and multi-species occupancy models to
evaluate the distributions of 15 mammal species and 34 songbird species in the Mojave Desert. Black-tailed
jackrabbit, kit fox, black-throated sparrow, and horned lark were among the mammal and songbird species with
the highest estimated occupancies. Mammal occupancy was positively associated with artificial water provisioning
sites, and both mammal and bird communities were positively associated with elevation and negatively associated
with temperature. Our research is among the first to use multiple sensor types, both visual and acoustic, to collect
information on diverse taxa. We demonstrate the utility of this approach for monitoring biodiversity at landscape
levels and tracking management actions aimed at addressing risks to wildlife persistence.
Wildlife and Climate Change
TERN TOWN: A CASE STUDY IN SHOREBIRD RESTORATION
David L Riensche; East Bay Regional Park District, Oakland, California; 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, Ca, 94605;
510-544-2319; [email protected];
Nestled along the eastern shoreline of the San Francisco Bay is a sanctuary for three special-status birds, built by
thousands of citizen scientists. After twelve years of success, the Hayward Regional Shoreline supports the second
largest California least tern (Sternula antillarum browni) colony north of Ventura County, and it also provides
nesting habitat for the western snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus), black skimmer (Rynchops niger), and six
other waterbird species. Averaging 279.6 California least tern nests per hectare, "Tern Town" supports one of the
highest breeding densities of California least terns on the West Coast. Likewise, this area supports high densities of
nesting western snowy plovers, ranging from 4.1 to 32 nests per hectare. Topics to be shared during this case study
will include: island construction, substrate enhancement, social attractants, invasive noxious weed control
partnerships, implementing and managing a predator control program, reproductive trends of nesting species, diet
studies, and kleptoparasitism. Lastly, this presentation will highlight the trials, triumphs, and teaching approaches
that have communicated science to the public, policy makers, and peers, while generating more than 25,000 hours
of volunteer help to assist in the recovery of these endangered and threatened birds.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds III
DIET TRENDS AND NESTING SUCCESS OF TWO SYMPATRIC TERNS BREEDING IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY
David L Riensche; East Bay Regional Park District; 2950 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA, 94605; 510-544-2319;
[email protected]; Meredith L. Elliott, Sarah K. Riensche, Rebekah E. Riensche, Brittany N. Pace, Andrew. W.
P. Taylor
The Hayward Regional Shoreline, located along the eastern side of the San Francisco Bay, provides nesting habitat
for two sympatric terns. The endangered California Least Tern nests in close proximity with a newly established
Forster's Tern colony. Their diets overlap slightly. Kleptoparasitism by the larger Forster's Terns on California Least
Terns has been observed at this location. Diet trend data, gathered by collecting dropped fish at both species'
colonies in 2015 and 2016 showed they forage on members of the Gobiidae (gobies), Engraulidae (anchovies),
Cyprinidae (goldfish) and Atherinopsidae (silversides) families. Statistical analysis using two-sample t-tests and chi-
squared goodness-of-fit tests showed a significant difference between their diets, with silversides making up a
much larger portion of the California Least Terns prey. To understand the effect of kleptoparasitism by Forster's
Terns on California Least Terns, reproductive success data was collected at both colonies. Statistical analysis using
unpaired t-tests revealed no significant difference in nesting or fledgling success between these two colonies.
While kleptoparasitism may affect the individual fitness of a single bird in terms of time and energy spent avoiding
parasitism, there is no statistical evidence indicating aerial "piracy" by Forster's Terns has resulted in negative
effects on California Least Terns due to reduced food availability to their chicks, or their reproductive productivity
at this site.
Poster Session
PACIFIC MARTEN (MARTES CAURINA) REPRODUCTIVE CHRONOLOGY IN THE LASSEN NATIONAL FOREST,
CALIFORNIA
Alyssa M Roddy; U.S. Forest Service Research Participation Program, ORISE; PO BOX 424, Westwood, CA, 96137;
5135324032; [email protected]; Katie M. Moriarty, Matthew S. Delheimer
Reproductive success is crucial to the persistence of wildlife, yet the timing of critical reproductive periods (i.e.,
giving birth to and rearing dependent young) may be unknown for cryptic species. Our objective was to describe
reproductive chronology (natal den initiation, litter size, kit development) and characteristics of reproductive
structures (natal dens, maternal dens, and maternal rest structures) of female Pacific martens (Martes caurina).
We used VHF telemetry and remote cameras to monitor 6 martens over 2 reproductive periods (2016 and 2017) in
the Lassen National Forest, California. Of 8 reproductive attempts by 6 individuals, 86% were successful. Natal den
initiation occurred between 21 April and 13 May with litter sizes of 1.8 ±.69 (x ±SD) kits. Martens used 7.8 ±2.1
reproductive structures and stayed at natal dens longest (19.4 ±15.5 days). Martens exclusively used live trees and
snags (103.4 ±19.9 cm diameter) with cavity microsites for natal dens. Kits moved freely by mid June (~44 days),
traveled independently by late July (~82 days), and started to disperse by mid-September. We suspect the most
vulnerable period for kit development occurred from den initiation to independent travel (late April-late-July). Our
research may provide forest managers with baseline information for minimizing disturbance to a sensitive wildlife
species.
Poster Session
DISEASE THREAT POSED BY NON-NATIVE COLUMBIDS IN CALIFORNIA
Krysta H Rogers; California Deptment of Fish and Wildlife; 1701 Nimbus Road, Suite D, Rancho Cordova, CA, 95670;
9163581662; [email protected]; Asli Mete, Beate Crossley
Eurasian collared-dove (Streptopelia decaocto), a non-native columbid, has established populations throughout the
United States since it was introduced in Florida in the 1980s. Pigeon paramyxovirus-1 (PPMV1) first emerged in
collared-doves in Florida in 2001, causing mass mortality of collared-doves. Since 2009, similar outbreaks
(sometimes also affecting native doves) were reported in eight states. In 2014, mortality events involving collared-
doves were reported in Riverside County, California. Affected doves displayed neurological symptoms. Post-
mortem exams revealed encephalitis and renal necrosis. Pigeon paramyxovirus-1 was confirmed by polymerase
chain reaction (PCR) and sequence analysis. Subsequent outbreaks have been confirmed in four and suspected in
three counties during 2015 and 2016. Additionally, in 2016, PPMV1 was confirmed in non-native rock pigeons
(Columba livia) in Sacramento County. In 2017, outbreaks in collared-doves were confirmed in seven and suspected
in three counties, reaching northern California. Dead native mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) were reported at
two locations. PPMV1 was not detected by PCR in one mourning dove, and the cause of death remains
undetermined. While collared-dove and rock pigeon populations are not expected to be impacted by these
diseases, they may pose a threat to declining populations of native columbids. We recommend monitoring native
and non-native columbids for PPMV1 and other pathogens.
Wildlife Health and Disease Ecology
INTEGRATING CAPTURE-MARK-RECAPTURE AND INDIVIDUAL GROWTH MODELS REVEALS SIZE-DEPENDENT
SURVIVAL IN AN ELUSIVE SNAKE
Jonathan P Rose; Western Ecological Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey; 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D,
Dixon, CA, 95620; 530-669-5078; [email protected]; Glenn D. Wylie, Michael L. Casazza, Brian J. Halstead
Estimating survival for many species is difficult because recapture rates are low, and the fate of marked individuals
is often unknown. Low recapture rates also make it difficult to evaluate the importance of individual and
environmental covariates for survival. Individual covariates such as size are challenging to include in capture-mark-
recapture models because the state of the individual is unknown when it is not captured. We integrated a von
Bertalanffy growth model with a robust-design Cormack-Jolly-Seber model to test for a relationship between body
size and survival in the threatened giant gartersnake, Thamnophis gigas. We estimated the size of an individual
when it was not captured using a Bayesian model, which fully propagates uncertainty in this unobserved covariate.
We found clear support for a positive relationship between snake size and annual survival. Survival increased with
size up to a peak for adult snakes and declined slightly for the largest individuals. Survival of giant gartersnakes was
also positively related to the abundance of fish and the cover of emergent and floating vegetation at a site. Our
results have implications for the management of this threatened species and illustrate the utility of hierarchical
Bayesian models to the study of survival in elusive species.
Wildlife Techniques and Technologies
GROWTH RATE VARIATION AMONG JUVENILE CHINOOK SALMON COHORTS DUE TO REARING CONDITIONS
Elianna Y Rosenthal; California State University, Fresno ; 5241 N Maple, Fresno , CA, 93740; 651-767-2864;
[email protected]; Dr. Steve Blumenshine
The construction of Friant Dam and its water diversion canals in 1942 has caused degradation of extended portions
of the San Joaquin River (SJR), and has eliminated one of the largest Chinook salmon runs on the West Coast.
Water diversions mainly for agricultural purposes resulted in reduced flows to the SJR, causing stretches of the San
Joaquin River to run dry. The anadromous life cycle of salmon is dependent on a connected river for migration. The
San Joaquin River Restoration Program was created in 2006 to mitigate the negative effects. To ensure successful
Chinook reintroduction into the SJR, it is crucial to know the optimum diet and hydrological conditions for fish
growth to create a sustainable population. Fish growth rates from otoliths are useful integrators of habitat
conditions. How different river hydrology influences growth rates of SJR cohorts from 2014 and 2016 will be
compared. Juvenile Chinook growth rates will also be compared to other populations, including from the adjacent
Merced River. Growth rates of juveniles from the Salmon Interim Research Facility in Friant were also processed to
serve as a control with known parameters. This information can help us inform bioenergetics models for SJR
population and water policy management.
Poster Session Student Paper
COMPARISON OF NICHES OF THREE SYMPATRIC HIGH-ELEVATION GROUND-DWELLING SQUIRRELS
Aviva J Rossi; University of California, Davis; 1088 Academic Surge, One Sheilds Ave., Davis, CA, 95616; 415-295-
2290; [email protected]; Robert Klinger, Dirk Van Vuren
Species that overlap in physical space are often separated along niche space parameters. We evaluated the niche
space of three sympatric high-elevation ground-dwelling squirrels, yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota flaviventris),
Belding's ground squirrel (Urocitellus beldingi), golden-mantled ground squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis). Our
survey area encompassed the alpine and subalpine region of the Sierra Nevada in California, from Alpine County to
the southern end of Inyo County. We used Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA) to quantify multivariate niche by
an index of marginality and specialization, along access several climate and habitat variables. This allowed us to
identify which of those variables are important predictors of each species presence. We also compared species use
of niche space, as well as identified areas of niche space overlap and differentiation between the three considered
species. This poster presents the results of the ENFA.
Poster Session Student Paper
IDENTIFYING ECOLOGICAL TRAPS FOR TARGETED PINYON-JUNIPER REMOVAL IN GREATER SAGE-GROUSE
HABITAT
Cali L Roth; U.S. Geological Survey; 800 Business Park Drive Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620; 330-592-9319;
[email protected]; Peter S. Coates, K. Ben Gustafson, Mark A. Ricca, Michael P. Chenaille
Pinyon (Pinus monophylla) and juniper (Juniperus osteosperma, J. occidentalis) trees (pinyon-juniper) have
increased significantly in the sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) ecosystems of the Great Basin since the late 1800s. This
expansion represents a primary threat to sagebrush obligate species, including the Greater Sage-grouse
(Centrocercus urophasianus, sage-grouse), an important indicator species repeatedly considered for listing under
the Endangered Species Act. Recent research has shown that even scattered trees (i.e., cover < 2%) in otherwise
intact sagebrush negatively impacts lek persistence and sage-grouse survival, especially in productive higher
elevation habitats that are important for brood-rearing. Such areas may function as ecological traps that convey
attractive resources but adversely affect population vital rates, and could be prioritized for pinyon-juniper removal.
We identified ecological traps across the entire range of sage-grouse habitat in Nevada and California by
intersecting areas of high productivity as defined by soil temperature and moisture regimes with <10% pinyon-
juniper cover using a unique object-based image analysis derived, 1-m resolution percent canopy cover conifer
classification product. We prioritized sites for pinyon-juniper removal by overlaying ecological traps with areas of
high-index value for sage-grouse that provide managers with a maps identifying targeted removal zones that could
be highly beneficial to sage-grouse.
Poster Session
LONG-TERM AQUATIC MONITORING OF STREAM-BREEDING AMPHIBIANS OF THE GEYSERS REGION OF SONOMA
AND LAKE COUNTIES
Brian T. Pittman; ESA; 1425 N. McDowell Blvd., Petaluma, CA, 94954; 707.795-0900 ; [email protected]; Liza
Ryan, Mike Podlech, Liza Ryan
Aquatic monitoring of fish and amphibians in The Geysers region of Lake and Sonoma Counties was initiated in past
decades to monitor in-stream fisheries health and water quality within an active geothermal field. Since 1998, six
stream reaches have been studied in the Bear Canyon/West Ford Flat (BC/WFF) area in Lake County and six
reaches in the Squaw Creek/Big Sulphur Creek aquatic monitoring program in Sonoma County. The six BC/WFF
sites were within the footprint of the 2015 Valley Fire in Lake County. Data are collected in late summer on stream
flow rates, stream condition, temperature, conductivity, contaminants, and benthic macroinvertebrates, in
addition to fish and amphibian population sampling. Population data on foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii)
and California giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus) have been collected since 1999 using standard
electrofishing methods, and will be collected on an ongoing basis. Our findings indicate consistent habitat use by
in-stream amphibian populations despite changes in the physical environment, including canopy changes due to
fire and reduced flow regimes in response to drought. In the future, they will allow us to examine responses to
altered habitat and water quality conditions following severe fire.
Poster Session
GENETIC CHARACTERISTICS OF A RECENTLY ESTABLISHED COYOTE POPULATION IN SAN FRANCISCO
Camilo J Sanchez; UC Davis; 2718 Anza Ave., Davis, CA, 95616; 5304003865; [email protected]; Katherine
Marquez, Stevi L Vanderzwan, Ben N Sacks
Though coyotes have historically populated San Francisco, they have been absent in the city for the last 75 years.
As recently as 2003, however, coyotes began to repopulate the Presidio and other parks, possibly linking the
genetically distinct populations of coyotes living to the north and south. Radiotelemetry and genetic studies
confirmed the earliest colonists dispersed across the Golden Gate Bridge from Marin County. In this study, we
sequenced (mtDNA) and genotyped (microsatellites) canid fecal samples collected in the San Francisco parks in
2007-2008 as part of a citizen science initiative to determine the following: (1) proportion that were dog versus
coyote, (2) genetic diversity of coyotes, (3) minimum number of founders. Mitochondrial sequencing identified 32
dog and 15 coyote samples. Of the coyote samples, we identified two cytochrome b haplotypes. Based on
microsatellites, we will address questions 2 and 3 above.
Poster Session Student Paper
PLANNING FOR SPECIES CONSERVATION IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING ENVIRONMENT
Sarah C Sawyer; US Forest Service; 1323 Club Drive, Vallejo, CA, 94592; 7079808651; [email protected];
Together with partners, the Pacific Southwest Region of the United States Forest Service is in the process of
compiling science (Conservation Assessments) and developing conservation measures (Conservation Strategies) for
two old-forest dependent species of conservation interest: Pacific fisher and California spotted owl. The goal is to
use compiled scientific information and proposed conservation measures, as part of a broader ecological
framework, to plan for effective and adaptive species conservation in the development of forest management
plans and activities. This complex endeavor has been made even more challenging by: (1) rapidly changing
environmental conditions (extended extreme drought and resulting tree mortality), (2) rapidly evolving and
incomplete scientific information (the majority of information comes from fire-excluded habitats as an era of
mega-fires gets underway), and (3) perceived tradeoffs between long-term ecosystem integrity and diversity
conservation/sustainability (coarse filter) and near-term species needs (fine-filter). This talk will discuss some of
the challenges and initial lessons learned in this ongoing conservation planning effort.
Public Policy and Wildlife Management
ROLE OF LAND BANKING IN COMPENSATORY MITIGATION FOR LOSS OF BAT HABITAT IN CALIFORNIA
Robert Schell; WRA, Inc.; [email protected]; Ben Guillon
Conservation banks have played an important role in California to offset impacts on federally and state-regulated
species and resources. Over the last 20 years, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has approved nearly
80 banks, which provide convenient and efficient mitigation solutions for project proponents. These banks are as
biologically diverse as they are geospatially distributed. They are preserved in perpetuity and endowed for
management and monitoring. Creation of long-lived bat roost habitat at existing and future banks, within the
matrix of high-quality open spaces, could provide solutions for loss of regional roosting resources. Although
impacts to terrestrial species and habitats are readily quantifiable (e.g., acres, linear feet, etc.), quantifying impacts
to roosting resources is more complicated, and forming consensus around possible crediting schema has proven
difficult. I invite the Western Bat Working Group to weigh in on this issue to determine if land banking could play a
role in the conservation of bats in California.
Bat Mitigation
USING CONSPECIFIC SONGS AS A SPECIES RESTORATION TECHNIQUE FOR WILLOW FLYCATCHERS
Lynn N Schofield; Institute for Bird Populations; PO Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA, 94956; 612-799-8630;
[email protected]; Helen L Loffland, Rodney B Siegel, Chris Stermer
Willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) populations have been in decline across California since before formal
surveys were initiated in the 1970s. The California population is currently below 500 pairs. Population declines
continue despite extensive conservation efforts, partially because willow flycatchers rarely recolonize sites once
they have been extirpated, regardless of apparent habitat suitability. This may be because prospecting willow
flycatchers assess habitat suitability by the presence of conspecifics, making them unlikely to consider unoccupied
habitat as potential breeding grounds. If true, broadcasting conspecific vocalizations at unoccupied sites could help
facilitate recolonization. During the 2016 and 2017 breeding seasons, we conducted an experiment to assess the
effectiveness of this technique as a means of restoring willow flycatchers to suitable, unoccupied habitat. We
compared recolonization rates at experimental sites where conspecific songs were broadcast during the settlement
and breeding periods and at control sites where no broadcasts took place. We observed willow flycatchers at five
of fourteen experimental sites during the breeding season and at one of fifteen control sites. These results suggest
that broadcasting conspecific songs may be an effective way to encourage willow flycatcher recolonization where
habitat has been restored.
Endangered Species Recovery
BIOTIC AND ABIOTIC EFFECTS ON COFFEE BERRY BORER (HYPOTHENEMUS HAMPEI) ABUNDANCE AND
DISTRIBUTION ON COFFEE FARMS IN KENYA
Sarah L Schooler; Humboldt State University; 750 Bayside Road, Arcata, CA, 95521; 6086984770;
[email protected]; Tim Bean, Matt Johnson
The coffee berry borer (CBB; Hypothenemus hampei) is the costliest pest for coffee production worldwide, costing
more than $500 million annually. Though CBB infestation rates are lower in shade-grown coffee than sun-grown
coffee, it is unclear if this trend is due to abiotic factors or predation pressure. Extensive research in East Africa has
shown that temperature significantly influences CBB presence and population growth, supporting bottom-up
control of CBB abundance. However, in the neo-tropics, bird and ant predation have significant impacts on CBB
populations, and avian insectivore richness is higher in shade than in sun, indicating top-down control. It is
unknown if birds and ants consume CBB in East Africa. To provide solutions for coffee farmers in the future with a
changing climate, it is crucial to determine exactly what restricts CBB abundance, severity and distribution. I plan to
sample bird, CBB, and ant populations on sun and shade coffee farms across an elevation gradient in Kiambu
County, Kenya in winter 2017. I will use combination mechanistic and correlative spatial models to determine
which factors determine CBB infestation and abundance. Once these interactions are fully understood, we can
predict the effects of CBB on coffee into the future.
Poster Session Student Paper
DEVELOPING AND VALIDATING A QPCR ASSAY FOR THE THREATENED CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG (RANA
DRAYTONII)
Gregg Schumer; Genidaqs; 3300 Industrial Blvd., Suite 100, West Sacramento, CA, 95691; 916-231-1681;
[email protected]; Robert Schell, WRA, Inc.
California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii, CRLF) is a visually evasive species living at low densities, which results in
low detection probability using standard field survey methods such as traps or visual encounter surveys. The loss of
historical habitat for CRLFÂ has resulted in extirpations or serious declines throughout its former range.
Management actions are sub-optimal if current distribution and occupancy information is unreliable. Enhancing
survey method sensitivity would improve compliance monitoring and recovery planning for the species under the
Endangered Species Act. We designed and validated a species-specific diagnostic qPCR assay for identifying a 61bp
fragment of the Cytochrome B (CytB) mitochondrial gene of CRLF. The CytB CRLF qPCR assay specificity was shown
to reliably detect CRLF DNA and not amplify or cross react with DNA from other species of Rana, including R.
luteiventris, R. pretiosa, R. aurora, and R. cascadae. We tested several environmental DNA (eDNA) samples from
sites with documented CRLF populations. Samples from sites with known CRLF occupation tested positive for CRLF
DNA. Samples from sites with no documented CRLF and negative field controls were negative for CRLF DNA. The
CytB CRLF qPCR-based DNA species specific detection coupled with eDNA sampling methods provide a means to
obtain critical population metrics from this otherwise cryptic and hard to study organism.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management
COMPARING INDICES AND ADVANCED MODELS FOR DETECTING POPULATION TRENDS FROM MARK-RECAPTURE
DATA FOR ISLAND DEER MICE (PEROMYSCUS MANICULATUS) OVER TWO DECADES
Catherin A Schwemm; Institute for Wildlife Studies; PO Box 133, Tomales, CA, 94971; 805-258-9328;
[email protected]; Charles Drost, John Orrock, Thomas Stanley, Timothy Coonan
Mark-recapture methods are commonly used to estimate abundance and density of wild animal populations.
Advanced statistical models have been developed to analyze mark-recapture data, but for several reasons these
models may not be appropriate for all long-term monitoring programs. For example, while in many cases wildlife
monitoring programs are staffed by very experienced field personnel, agencies often do not have consistent access
to people proficient in advanced modeling techniques. In this study, we investigated whether a simple population
index, easily generated from mark-recapture field data, might be sufficient for determining long-term trends of
deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) populations on the California Channel Islands. Using mark-recapture data
from five sites that span 18 years, we compared density estimates obtained from several commonly used mark-
recapture models and further compared these estimates to index counts. Densities calculated by the models and
the index showed similar patterns of population variation and trend over time for all five sites. For long-term
population monitoring and communication purposes, our findings suggest that the use of a simple index may
provide adequate understanding of population changes in island deer mice, and we present examples of how our
results have contributed to a greater understanding of island ecology.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV
EVALUATING THE SPECIES DISTRIBUTION FOR THE GIANT KANGAROO RAT (DIPODOMYS INGENS)
Alyssa Semerdjian; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 8583427474;
[email protected]; Tim, Bean
Understanding a species' range is fundamental to enacting effective management strategies. This is especially
relevant when it comes to the protection and recovery of endangered species. The giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys
ingens) (GKR), an endangered keystone species endemic to California's central valley is an example of a species
with a range in need of clarification. The currently accepted range map, drawn in 1992, covers the two largest GKR
populations as well as some smaller populations that are not well studied. In the 25 years since this map was no
one has formally assessed whether changes have occurred at the boundaries or investigated the status of potential
populations at the center of the GRK range. This study assesses the current distribution for GKR, including areas
that have so far received very little attention. These methods include surveys using satellite imagery, manned and
unmanned flight surveys, non-invasive transect surveys and traditional live-trapping. This poster will feature the
findings of each of these survey techniques and the range map that is created when they are combined.
Poster Session Student Paper
SHRINKING GIANTS? ASSESSING THE POTENTIAL FOR CLIMATE DRIVEN MORPHOMETRIC CHANGE IN THE GIANT
KANGAROO RAT (DIPODOMYS INGENS)
Alyssa Semerdjian; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst St, Arcata, CA, 95521; 8583427474;
[email protected]; Ivy Widick, Tim Bean, Laura Prugh
It is generally agreed that there are three ways that species can react to drastic environmental change. They can
move with the conditions that are suitable for them, adapt to meet the new conditions, or go extinct. Whether a
species can shift spatially or morphologically is an important question for anyone interested in predicting how
species will respond to climate change. An increasing number of studies have documented changes in rodent body
size corresponding to changes in climate, which has important implications for the behavioral and physiological
processes of those species. The giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingnes, GKR) is a grassland specialist that occurs in
areas with very specific temperature and precipitation ranges. Due to its specific habitat needs and small range
ringed by agriculture and oil fields, a distribution shift is not likely for the GKR. If the GKR is to persist under climate
change, morphological changes may be necessary. To assess whether GKR is undergoing measurable change, I will
use museum specimens spanning 100 years and GKR live-trapping data collected over a period of 10 years to
assess whether GKR body size has responded to short- and long-term climate shifts.
Wildlife and Climate Change Student Paper
EFFECTS OF GPS TRACKING DEVICES ON SAGE-GROUSE SURVIVAL
John P. Severson; U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center; 1100 Valley Road, Reno, NV, 89512;
530-908-2546; [email protected]; Brian G. Prochazka, Peter S. Coates, Mark A. Ricca
Understanding the effects that wildlife researchers have on their study animals is crucial to interpreting the results
of the studies and implementing conservation actions based on those results. The increased use of global
positioning system (GPS) tracking devices on greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) in recent years has
contributed to our understanding of fine-scale movements and habitat use compared with the traditionally-used
very high frequency (VHF) transmitters. However, GPS units differ from VHF units in ways that may negatively
affect grouse behavior and survival and therefore yield biased results. We evaluated differences in seasonal
survival in >1000 sage-grouse marked with VHF and GPS tracking devices throughout their distribution in California
and Nevada. We observed decreased survival for GPS-marked birds compared to VHF-marked birds for both sexes,
all age classes, and all seasons. This difference was likely related to features of the GPS units that include greater
weight, a rump-mount harness attachment, and a reflective solar panel, all of which may increase an animal's
susceptibility to predation. While GPS units produce useful movement data, we recommend that grouse marked
with currently available GPS packages not be used in demographic analyses. Future research should assess new
designs that reduce negative impacts on sage-grouse and limit biased results.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II
INTEGRATING MACHINE-LEARNING WITH CLASSICAL WILDLIFE RESOURCE SELECTION ANALYSES
Kevin T Shoemaker; University of Nevada, Reno; 1664 N. Virginia St, mail stop 186, Reno, NV, 89557; 7756827449;
[email protected]; Levi J. Heffelfinger, Nathan J. Jackson, Marcus E. Blum, Tony Wasley, Kelley M.
Stewart
Resource selection functions (RSFs) are tremendously valuable tools for ecologists and resource managers because
they quantify spatial patterns in use of resources by wildlife, thereby facilitating identification of critical habitat
areas and characterizing habitat features that are selected or avoided. RSFs discriminate between used and
available resource units based on an array of environmental features and are generally performed using logistic
regression. However, logistic regression has some notable limitations, such as difficulties accommodating non-
linear relationships and complex interactions. Increasingly, ecologists are turning to flexible machine-learning
methods to overcome these limitations. We investigated the seasonal resource selection patterns of mule deer
(Odocoileus hemionus) by pairing a logistic regression analysis with random forest (RF), a popular machine-learning
algorithm. RF models detected strong non-linear relationships and complex, non-linear interactions that would
otherwise have been difficult to discover and characterize. RF models exhibited improved predictive skill versus
linear models and provided unique insights about resource selection patterns. We recommend that researchers
harness the strengths of machine learning tools in addition to "classical" tools like logistic regression for evaluating
wildlife resource selection patterns.
Wildlife Techniques and Technologies
IMPACT OF NESTING MICROHABITAT AND FORAGING HABITAT ON COLONY LOCATIONS OF THE NORTHERN
BLACK SWIFT (CYPSELOIDES NIGER BOREALIS)
Alex J Single; California State University, Fresno; 311 Cherry Lane, Clovis, CA, 93612; 559-908-9893;
[email protected]; Kim Potter, Caroline Gunn, Tricia Van Laar
The northern black swift (Cypseloides niger borealis) is an insectivorous bird which nests in small colonies in
western North America. Previous research has focused almost entirely on nesting locations, and foraging habitat is
largely unresearched due to the difficulty of detecting foraging black swifts. We conducted focused black swift
surveys in the southern Sierra Nevada and collected records from previous surveys in Colorado. During these
surveys we collected data on six aspects of black swift nesting microhabitat: Water flow, vertical relief, aerial
access, shade, nesting niches, and moss cover. Scores for each of these variables were summed to provide a total
microhabitat score. We also summed the total area covered by standing water and wetlands within five kilometers
of each colony, as standing water and wetlands are a major source of prey in the form of emergent insects. These
two scores were used as independent variables in a logistic regression to determine their relative effect on the
occurrence of black swifts at each colony. Our results suggest that foraging habitat is not a driver of nesting site
selection, but further data should be collected including radio telemetry data from breeding black swifts.
Poster Session Student Paper
HABITAT MEDIATES INTERACTIONS BETWEEN HUMBOLDT MARTENS AND BOBCATS: EVIDENCE FROM DIET,
HABITAT SELECTION, AND GRADIENTS IN LANDSCAPE COMPOSITION
Keith M Slauson; US Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station; 1700 Bayview Drive, Arcata, CA, 95521;
707-825-2931; [email protected];
Humboldt marten (Martes caurina humboldtensis) research has focused on direct effects of habitat to meet daily
needs (rest structures) and annual needs (home ranges). However, indirect effects influencing sensitive
demographic characteristics can affect populations. Bobcats are an important marten predator, and survival most
influences marten population growth. Using multiple lines of evidence, I retrospectively evaluated the role habitat
plays in indirectly mediating marten-bobcat interactions. Important marten prey such as chipmunks and tree
squirrels are associated more with mature, late seral forests with dense shrub cover, whereas important bobcat
prey such as woodrats and rabbits are associated with early seral forests. Martens select large patches of late seral
forest or serpentine habitat with dense shrub layers. Bobcats select for early seral forests (<30 years old) and are
nearly absent in landscapes where early seral habitat in lacking. Where martens and bobcats co-occur, and where
~25% of the landscape consisted of early seral forest, bobcats killed 45% of martens monitored over a two-year
period. Where early seral stands increased to >50% of the landscape over time, marten distribution contracted.
These results suggest landscape composition mediates interactions between these species by affecting their
distributions, increasing marten predation when bobcats are present, and reducing marten survival and
distribution in landscapes increasingly composed of younger stands.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II
HUMAN DIVERSITY: WHAT IS IT AND WHY DOES IT MATTER TO YOUR ORGANIZATION AND WILDLIFE
CONSERVATION EFFORTS?
Katie Smith; UC Davis, CDFW; 1328 Empire Street, Fairfield, CA, 94533; 530-400-7729; [email protected];
What do financial institutions like the World Bank, government institutions like the National Institutes of Health,
prestigious universities like Yale University, and The Wildlife Society have in common? They all understand the
immense value of human diversity in the workplace and beyond. With diversity getting so much buzz lately, you
may be wondering why it should matter to you. From making businesses more profitable, to curing more diseases,
to saving more endangered species, a diverse workforce gets the job done faster and better. By spotting each
other's blind spots, providing creative ideas and perspectives, and connecting with stakeholders, a diverse team is
more effective. And while The Wildlife Society is working to improve diversity throughout our organization, we
have a lot of work to do. Check out this talk to learn about diversity in our organization, hear examples of how
diversity improves wildlife conservation, and learn tools to diversify and improve your own work.
Communicating Science to Diverse Audiences Student Paper
SITE SELECTION IN A POPULATION MONITORING PROGRAM FOR TOWNSEND'S BIG-EARED BATS: DOES CAVE
MORPHOLOGY PREDICT ABUNDANCE OF HIBERNATING BATS?
Katrina J. Smith; Humboldt State University; 1 Harpst Street , Arcata, CA, 95521; [email protected]; Daniel C.
Barton, David A. Riggs
Efficient sampling of a large proportion of a population is a key feature of a powerful trend monitoring program.
Here, we use adaptive sampling to revise a monitoring program for Townsend's big-eared bats (Corynorhinus
townsendii) hibernating in volcanic caves at Lava Beds National Monument in northeastern California. Although
dozens of known cave hibernacula are surveyed annually, additional effort to locate new hibernation sites is
limited by the number (n = 423) of unsurveyed caves. Abundance of bats within hibernacula is negatively
correlated with cave temperature (n = 31 caves over 4 years), but comprehensive temperature measurement is not
feasible for so many caves. Instead, we investigated the connection between cave morphology and microclimate to
identify caves with cold, stable temperatures potentially used by hibernating bats. We built and validated a model
using direct measurements of cave morphology (trench depth, entrance area, passage constriction area) to predict
bat abundance and assessed model performance at a coarser scale, assigning cave types (bridge, surface tube,
talus, and lava tube). Hibernacula surveys completed in January 2018 will validate the predictive model, potentially
influencing site selection for future surveys. Improvement in power and efficiency of bat population monitoring is
critical to understanding potential impacts of the fatal disease white-nose syndrome.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV Student Paper
WHY IS THERE A LEAD POISONING THREAT FOR CALIFORNIA CONDORS EVEN AFTER THE LEAD AMMUNITION
BAN?
Mike M Stake; Ventana Wildlife Society; 19045 Portola Drive Suite F-1, Salinas, CA, 93908; 8318007423;
[email protected]; Kelly, J, Sorenson, Joe, Burnett
The prospects of recovery for California condors (Gymnogyps californianus) improved when legislation banned the
use of lead ammunition within their California range in 2008. Yet, lead poisoning remains a threat to condors.
While hunters in California are transitioning to copper ammunition, some shooters are challenged by inconsistent
availability of non-lead .22 long rifle (LR) ammunition, commonly used by ranchers to control vermin. Condors
regularly scavenge on private ranches in central California, where they find rancher-shot ground squirrel and
coyote carcasses. In 2012, we discovered a .22-caliber lead bullet in the digestive tract of a lead-poisoned condor,
supporting the role of vermin shooting as a continued source of lead poisoning. Currently, only one non-lead .22 LR
brand is available, and it has been difficult to find in local stores. Access to this product will be further limited when
the California Safety For All Act requires face to face transactions, thereby restricting internet sales. While we
facilitate access to non-lead .22 LR by giving hundreds of free boxes to local landowners, the long-term success of
the lead ban in eliminating the lead threat will depend on a greater selection and more consistent availability of .22
LR ammunition.
Endangered Species Recovery
WESTERN YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO NEST SITE SELECTION IN THE SOUTH FORK KERN RIVER VALLEY
Patti J Wohner; Southern Sierra Research ; 7872 Fay Ranch Road, Weldon, CA, 93283; [email protected];
Jenna E Stanek, Jenna Stanek
The western distinct population segment of the yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus, YBCU) has shown
steady declines resulting in listing as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. Although a recovery
plan has not yet been developed, the proposed listing decision states that the main threats to YBCU is habitat loss
and degradation. The once thriving South Fork Kern River Valley (KRV) population of YBCU has recently seen
dramatic declines, possibly due to forest maturation and concomitant lack of early successional stage nesting
habitat and prolonged drought. We received funding to enhance maturing riparian forest in the KRV and expect to
continue managing for high quality habitat in the future. To provide guidelines for enhancing riparian forest for
YBCU, we compared 11 years of historical (1985-1996) YBCU nest site vegetation data in the KRV (n = 95) with
available vegetation data using logistic regression in a Bayesian framework. Selection analyses based on high
quality sites elsewhere in the western United States have determined that nest site selection is positively
correlated with medium sized trees (8-inch diameter at breast height) and willow density. YBCU selected similar
nest site characteristics in the KRV and we will use results of this analysis to plan future restoration.
Endangered Species Recovery
USING AUTOMATED BIRD RECORDERS TO DETERMINE DIFFERENCES IN BIRD OCCUPANCY OF FOUR
SILVICULTURE TREATMENTS IN A POST-FIRE SETTING
Anastasia M Stanish; CAL FIRE; 6105 Airport Road, Redding, CA, 96002; [email protected];
(Jeff Davis approved edits to abstracts due to Sonoma Fire impact on getting paper polished in time) Forest fires
play an important ecological role for California's wildlife. However, in recent years, high severity wildfires have
become uncharacteristically large, severe, and spatially contiguous. Forest managers utilize salvage harvesting as a
mechanism to recover the value of timber lost to these fires and to prepare the area for restocking with conifer
seedlings. Past studies have shown that there is an increase in cavity-nesting, insectivorous bird species such as
woodpeckers in post-fire landscapes. California Department of Fish and Wildlife has been operating passive bird
recorders as part of the Eco-Regional Biodiversity Monitoring project to determine occupancy and diversity of bird
species across large geographic landscapes in northern California for several years and, more recently, broadly
across the State. CAL FIRE's study complements that work by focusing on collecting baseline bird occurrence and
diversity for stands subject to different disturbance and/or management treatments following wildfire, with the
goal of determining if significant differences exist between treatments. This study utilizes four replicates in four
different silviculure stand types on Boggs Mountain Demonstration State Forest (BMDSF), located in Lake County in
the northern part of the California Coast Range.
Poster Session
DIFFERENTIATION OF RELICT POPULATIONS OF THE ENDANGERED GIANT KANGAROO RAT PREDATES
AGRICULTURAL INTENSIFICATION IN THE SAN JOAQUIN DESERT
Mark Statham; UC Davis; One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616; 5307547932; [email protected]; Tim Bean,
Nathan Alexander, Mike Westphal, Ben Sacks
The endangered giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens, GKR) is a keystone species restricted to the San Joaquin
Desert of California, whose range has been reduced to 3% of historical, largely due to habitat loss to irrigated
agriculture. The main remaining populations of the GKR are divided into two distinct and fragmented populations
150 km apart: the northern GKR of the Ciervo-Panoche natural area and the southern GKR of the Carrizo Plain. To
aid in conservation efforts we sought to understand the demographic history of the species, the historical
relationship between the major remaining populations, and to determine how the genetic diversity of the species
is partitioned across the range. We set out to achieve this by examining >275 GKR at two mitochondrial DNA
regions (>800 bp) and 17 nuclear microsatellites. We estimated that the main populations of GKR split 774-5,600
years ago, prior to agricultural intensification during the 20th century. Within the northern Ciervo-Panoche area we
resolved multiple distinct subpopulations, and identified the Tumey Hills as a major source population.
Identification of geographically discrete populations of giant kangaroo rats and the relationships among them will
aid in conservation decision making by management agencies.
Genetic Techniques in Wildlife Research and Management
ASSESSING THE RESPONSE OF THE ALAMEDA WHIPSNAKE TO FUELS MANAGEMENT AND HABITAT VARIATION IN
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT, CALIFORNIA: PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Ricka E Stoelting; Swaim Biological Inc.; 4435 First St., PMB #312, Livermore, CA, 94551; 925-455-8770;
[email protected]; Brian J Halstead, Christopher R Swaim, Karen E Swaim, Douglas A Bell
The Alameda whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus), a medium-sized colubrid listed as threatened at state
and federal levels, resides in the eastern San Francisco Bay Area where designated critical habitat is concentrated
around patchy scrublands at risk of succumbing to high-intensity wildfires. Under contract with the East Bay
Regional Park District, we implemented a Before-After-Control-Impact trapping and radio-telemetry study designed
to measure the effects of fuel-load-reducing vegetation treatments on occupancy response and habitat selection of
these snakes and analyzed the results in a Bayesian framework. First-year results indicate (1) potential tolerance of
low-intensity treatments, (2) significant negative relationships with percent cover of tree species (in general for
occupancy and specific to oak woodland for radio-telemetry) and percent cover of annual grassland (occupancy
only), and (3) positive relationships with southwest-facing slopes (occupancy only, but trend toward southeasterly
in radio-telemetry) and "developed" habitat (i.e., utility tower platforms) within a matrix of undisturbed habitat
(radio-telemetry only). However, caveats of low sample size and sample bias must be kept in mind when
interpreting these results. Data are preliminary, from the first year of a five-year study, and should be viewed in
that context.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I
STUDYING HABITAT USE OF THE RIPARIAN BRUSH RABBIT (SYLVILAGUS BACHMANI RIPARIUS) IN SAN JOAQUIN
RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE WITH CAMERA TRAPS
Celia M Tarcha; CSU Stanislaus Ecology and Sustainability Program; 2900 Andre Lane, Apartment 248, Turlock, CA,
95382; 408-668-5653; [email protected]; Patrick A. Kelly
The riparian brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani riparius; RBR) is a state- and federally-listed species found in just a
few areas of the northern San Joaquin Valley of central California. It requires the dense brush associated with
riparian areas for food and for protection from predators. Loss of habitat to agriculture and urban development
restricted its range to two locations in San Joaquin County requiring its reintroduction in 2002 to the San Joaquin
River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). There has been relatively little research on the fine scale behavioral ecology
of brush rabbits. This project studied the behavioral ecology of RBR on San Joaquin River NWR using camera traps.
The goal was to study their use of refuge habitat, and subsequently their use of feed piles deployed following
flooding events during the winter and spring of 2017. We also studied RBR intraspecific and interspecific
interactions. Initial results showed an increase in interactions between RBR and other species at feeding locations.
There was an increased number of RBR at feed piles when food availability was low. However, there was less
visitation to these artificial food sources once the flooding subsided and the natural vegetation recovered. Paper is
a work in progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
SUCCESSFULLY MITIGATING LOSS OF BRIDGE ROOST HABITAT
Greg Tatarian; Wildlife Research Associates; 1119 Burbank Ave., Santa Rosa, CA, 95407; 707-544-6273;
It is well documented that bridges offer substantial amounts of roost habitat for millions of bats. Many bridges
provide temporal and environmental stability, which makes them highly suitable for use by bats during seasonal
periods of bat activity and in some cases also during winter. Bridges are usually large structures that can support
large colonies, often with a variety of roost features and characteristics that make them attractive to multi-species
assemblages. Bats that use bridges vary in size as well as preference of roost feature characteristics. The author
provides design criteria, including bridge- and species-specific details, of successfully-occupied replacement, in-
structure roost habitat, which he has developed and refined over many years for bridges in California. The author
also discusses the iterative, cooperative processes involved in working with bridge engineers and architects to
incorporate important biological requirements into construction plans and completed bridges.
Bat Mitigation
COMPARISON OF HARD AND SOFT RELEASE TECHNIQUES IN A FOUNDER POPULATION OF NORTHERN WESTERN
POND TURTLES (ACTINEMYS MARMORATA)
Dana Terry; Sonoma State University; 1801 E Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA, 94928; 925-212-4720; [email protected];
Past attempts at reintroducing herpetofauna to parts of their native range from which they have been extirpated
have had mixed results, with some successes and many failures. Soft release techniques, whereby individuals can
acclimate to the reintroduction area prior to full release, are frequently employed with the intention of improving
outcomes. However, the effectiveness of soft release techniques is difficult to quantify. This study compared the
growth rates of soft and hard released individuals in a founder population of northern western pond turtles
(Actinemys marmorata) introduced into an urban lake in the Presidio of San Francisco, California. The soft release
treatment group was held in the study lake in an enclosed pen for several days and provisioned with food prior to
full release. The hard release group was placed directly into the lake with no acclimation period. Morphometric
measurements were taken immediately prior to release, and for approximately five months following release,
turtles were recaptured and measured to determine growth rates.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II
DETERMINING DRIVERS OF BUMBLE BEE DISTRIBUTIONS IN MONTANE MEADOW SYSTEMS OF NORTHERN
CALIFORNIA
Naomi Terry; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; 1812 9th Street, Sacramento, CA, 95811; (916) 445 2626;
[email protected]; Adam Hoeft, Erin Elsey, Helen Loffland, Rodney Siegel, Chris Stermer
Field surveys conducted in the summers of 2016 and 2017 in a selection of montane wet meadow systems aim to
assess how different abiotic and botanical features affect abundance and species richness of bumble bee
(Bombus spp.) populations. The meadows surveyed include undisturbed, degraded and restored wet meadows in
four regions of the northern Sierra Nevada and southern Cascades of California, at elevations ranging from 3500ft-
8000ft. Additionally, we aim to assess vulnerability of bumble bees to drought through a paired analysis of data
collected during and after recent drought conditions in California. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive
survey of bumble bees in these systems. In total 762 bumble bees were captured via non-lethal survey methods.
Fifteen different species were detected, with the majority being yellow-faced bumble bee (Bombus vosnesenskii),
associated with at least 50 flowering plant species. With mounting evidence that bumble bee distributions are
sensitive to climate change and habitat degradation, monitoring this pollinator community will help determine
their current status. This will allow us to determine whether bumble bees could act as an indicator species for
meadow health in the montane regions of California, and thus feed into management strategies for sensitive
meadow systems.
Poster Session
MULTI-REGION, MULTI-SCALE, MESCOCARNIVORE MONITORING: DEVELOPING A SCIENTIFICALLY DEFENSIBLE
BROAD-SCALE MONITORING FRAMEWORK
Jody M Tucker; U.S. Forest Service; 1839 S. Newcomb Street, Porterville, CA, 93257; 209-962-7825 x547;
[email protected]; Katie M Moriarty (presenter), Jessie D Golding (presenter), Michael K Schwartz, Kevin S
McKelvey
Over the past decade, there have been many local and regional monitoring efforts for rare carnivores. Yet, these
species persist in populations or meta-populations that extend to scales well beyond individual management units
(e.g., project area, hunting district, National Forest, state). Although local efforts provide valuable information
about presence of individuals, such efforts incorporated within a biologically-driven and statistically-robust
monitoring plan would increase capacity to understand population trends. Prior technology restricted efficient
large-scale monitoring of mesocarnivores, as it can be incredibly difficult to detect such species that often persist at
low densities and that move extensively within large home ranges. We will describe the development a
collaborative, multi-partner effort to create a comprehensive, scientifically defensible, broad-scale, multi-species
mesocarnivore monitoring plan. Our vision is based on flexible survey methods, executed purposely at multiple
scales, with a state-space occupancy modeling framework which can describe the status and trends of rare
carnivores across states and regions. Our plan will provide a broader-scale context to make better informed
conservation strategies and decisions, help fulfill legal requirements (e.g., the Forest Service's 2012 Planning Rule),
and help ensure the persistence of these rare species by providing predictive spatially-explicit information to alert
biologists to species-level trends.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals I
USING LIDAR TO DESCRIBE PACIFIC MARTEN RESTING HABITAT AT MULTIPLE SPATIAL SCALES
Patrick J Tweedy; Oregon State University; 280 Peavy Hall, Corvallis, OR, 97331; (605) 661-4221;
[email protected]; Katie M. Moriarty, John D. Bailey, Clinton W. Epps, Brian Wing
Conservation of wildlife populations on managed landscapes requires planning at the appropriate spatial scale,
since scale dramatically affects results and thus interpretation. We examined multi-scale habitat relationships at
Pacific marten (Martes americana) rest structures in Lassen National Forest using fine-resolution vegetation data
(30-meter airborne Light Detection and Ranging [LiDAR]). Using a moving-window framework to compare
selection, we optimized 14 covariates at 12 spatial scales (30 meters-990 meters) centered on each rest structure.
We monitored martens from 2009-2012 and 2015-2017 (n = 312 resting structures, 31 martens), and then
compared used versus randomly sampled locations (n-rand = 624) to develop multivariate habitat selection
models. Our top model included trees per acre (990-meter scale) and elevation (900 meter), suggesting that
martens select for increased tree cover at higher elevations at the home range scale. Increased structural
complexity and stand density surrounding rest structures (270 and 180 meters, respectively) increased probability
of selection. Because martens selected locations with vegetation characteristics optimized at 180-270 meters, 270
meters may be an appropriate scale to consider for management, for instance, establishing leave islands or focal
areas for restoration. We provide the first evaluation of marten habitat using LiDAR, which can be broadly and
accurately extrapolated for prioritizing management planning and restoration.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals II Student Paper
EFFECTS OF MAMMALIAN APOSEMATIC PATTERN AND CONTRAST VARIATION ON PREDATOR AVOIDANCE
LEARNING
Kathy Vo; California State University, Long Beach; 1250 Bellflower Blvd, Long Beach, CA, 90840; 7143571163;
[email protected]; Theodore Stankowich
Aposematic coloration makes prey defenses easier for predators to learn and remember, and reduces mistaken
attacks. While we know a great deal about predator learning and the evolution of aposematism in avian predators
on aposematic invertebrates, mammalian predators and aposematic mammalian prey have been mostly ignored.
Coyotes (Canis latrans) overlap in range with and are potential predators of striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), an
aposematic prey animal found widely across North America. To determine how contrast intensity and pattern
structure influence the speed of avoidance learning in canid predators, we are initially conditioning captive coyotes
to attack brown benign, baited prey models and subsequently presenting them with noxious spraying prey models
that vary in pattern structure and contrast intensity. Differences in the latency to interact with the novel spraying
models are compared with respect to the contrast intensity and pattern structure of the model. Preliminary
findings suggest that coyote subjects demonstrate greater latency to attack all black-and-white (maximum
contrast) models, regardless of pattern structure, compared to the black-and-gray (minimal contrast) model. If
supported by further data, these early results may explain the consistent use of black-and-white coloration, but
large variation in pattern structure, exhibited by skunks in the continental United States. This paper is a work-in-
progress.
Poster Session Student Paper
ANNUAL AND SEASONAL VARIABILITY IN LEK ATTENDANCE RATES OF GREATER SAGE-GROUSE IN NEVADA
Gregory T Wann; U.S. Geological Survey; Reno Satellite Station, 1100 Valley Road, Reno, NV, 89512; 9704493773;
[email protected]; Peter S. Coates, Brian G. Prochazka
Counts of males displaying on breeding grounds are commonly used to assess population trends in lekking grouse
species. Lek attendance (i.e., the proportion of males on leks available for detection) is thought to be a major
contributing factor to variation in counts. However, attendance rates are rarely quantified. We assessed
attendance rates of greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) at eight study sites in Nevada to better
understand the utility of lek counts as an index to population abundance. We used daily location data collected
from 81 male sage-grouse marked with global positioning system (GPS) transmitters over five lekking seasons
(2013-2017) to estimate seasonal and annual variability in attendance rates using generalized additive models and
lek boundaries mapped following lek counts. Average timing of peak attendance occurred on 8 April but varied
from 20 March (2014) to 17 April (2016). Average peak attendance was 54.0% and varied from 25.4% (2015) to
74.4% (2017). Overall, adult males attended leks at higher rates (63.2% at peak) and earlier in the season (peak on
5 April) than subadults (31.7% at peak on 24 April). Our results indicate attendance rates are more variable than
previously thought and provide new insights on individual behavior during a critical monitoring period.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds II
YEAR-ROUND CHANGES IN BODY CONDITION IN THREE SPECIES OF BATS PROVIDE CLUES TO THEIR
OVERWINTERING STRATEGIES
Theodore J Weller; USDA Forest Service, PSW Research Station; 1700 Bayview Drive, Arcata, CA, 95521; 707-825-
2955; [email protected]; Matthew J, Lau
In temperate-zone mammals, decisions about energy allocation are often governed by seasonal changes in
weather and food availability. In addition, energy allocation strategies usually differ between males and females.
The study of energy allocation is challenging for bats, especially those that do not roost in areas known or
accessible to humans. We evaluated year-round changes in body condition for three species of bats in northern
California: silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans), California myotis (Myotis californicus), and Yuma myotis
(Myotis yumanensis). The two species of myotis are considered resident species that do not migrate. Silver-haired
bats are considered migratory species, with females likely migrating farther than males. Body mass of all species
peaked in late autumn and were at a minimum during spring. There were significant differences in body mass
between sexes and among seasons in all three species. We used sex- and season-specific multiple linear regression
models of change in body condition to quantify these changes. Interspecific comparisons provided valuable insights
into the energy allocation and overwintering strategies of these species and are important first steps toward
understanding their ecology over the full annual cycle.
Ecology and Conservation of Mammals IV
THE CASE FOR DRAWING DOWN FISHLESS PONDS: PREDATION ON CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG EGGS BY
OVERWINTERING NEWT LARVAE
Michael F Westphal; US Bureau of Land Management; 940 2nd Avenue, Marina, CA, 93933; 831-582-2229;
[email protected]; Eva Gruber, Karen Kiemnec-Tyburczy, Max Westphal, Christopher Lortie
In February 2017, we observed unusually large salamander larvae eating the eggs of California red-legged frogs
(Rana draytonii) in an artificial stock pond on the coastal slope of the Santa Cruz Mountains at Cotoni Coast Dairies
National Monument. Using mitochondrial DNA, we determined the presence of larvae of two species of
salamander, the California newt (Taricha torosa) and the rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa), and determined
the large larvae to be individuals of T. granulosa that had likely overwintered. Further sampling throughout the
following 12 months determined that T. torosa larvae appeared at approximately the same time as eggs of R.
draytonii were deposited and did not attain large size soon enough to pose a risk to frog eggs. Newly hatched T.
granulosa larvae appeared for the first time in May. Overwintering newt larvae appear to pose a unique threat to
successful R. draytonii reproduction that can potentially be managed by drying down ponds in late fall. However,
overwintering in T. granulosaexpresses natural variation in the reproductive cycle of that species that may warrant
conservation itself, posing a potential tradeoff in conservation priorities between two native species.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles II
MONITORING NATIVE TREE SQUIRRELS WITH CITIZEN SCIENCE IN HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
Jessica N Whalen; Honor's Thesis for undergrad at HSU; 2018 Nelson Rd , McKinleyville, CA, 95519; 775-287-8960;
Previous studies have found that tree squirrels are the most preferred and disliked urban wildlife by humans,
depending on their activity. Douglas squirrels (Tamiasciurus douglasii) and Western grey squirrels (Sciurus griseus)
are native tree squirrels, known to occur throughout the Pacific northwest, in coastal old-growth and second-
growth forests, where they defend territories with high food abundance. I used citizen science to monitor native
tree squirrel abundance and behavior, and human perceptions towards them in Humboldt County neighborhoods
with a website and door-to door surveys in the major urban neighborhoods of Arcata and Eureka that contained
trees. I found that human perceptions towards squirrels and wildlife, in general, was positive for Humboldt County
residents. In addition, residents were more concerned that their cats would harm the squirrels, than the squirrels
would cause damage to their homes. In general, I noticed a difference in free-roaming cats and perceived squirrel
presence in Arcata compared to Eureka. Most residents in both Eureka and Arcata neighborhoods expressed that
they wish to see more squirrels in their neighborhoods. My results will help inform management decisions
regarding native tree squirrels in urban environments in Humboldt County, California.
Poster Session
ANTHROPOGENIC NIGHTLIGHT AND NOISE EFFECTS ON FEEDERWATCH BIRD ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
Ashley A Wilson; California Polytechnic Institute; 1 Grand Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93407; 520-339-9852;
[email protected]; Clinton D. Francis, Neil H. Carter, Jesse R. Barber
Anthropogenic nightlight and noise (ANLN) alter animal physiology, behavior, and life history by masking
biologically relevant cues. Whether these changes scale up to affect broad-scale patterns of distributions with
respect to ANLN exposure is an open question. We used continental-wide geospatial ANLN data obtained from the
National Park Service's Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division to determine whether these stimuli alter
distributions of species at bird feeders measured through Project FeederWatch from 2004-2012. We controlled for
several macroecological variables that reflect urbanization impacts, such as human population density from the
Gridded Population of the World (GPWv4) dataset and percent impervious surface from the National Landcover
Database. By comparing long-term patterns of spatial and temporal variation in bird species, we expect to see a
general decline in habitat use and abundance in areas with greater ANLN disturbance for most bird species.
Preliminary analyses suggest that noise negatively affects the distributions of most species and was consistently a
stronger predictor of abundance than other measures of urbanization. Managers can improve habitat quality by
modifying anthropogenic activities to decrease the amount of disturbance birds experience.
Ecology and Conservation of Birds I Student Paper
THE IMPACT OF WILDFIRE AND CHANGING SEASONAL CLIMATE VARIABLES ON TERRESTRIAL AMPHIBIANS AND
REPTILES IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA: PATTERNS IN COMMUNITY COMPOSITION
Julie L Wittmann; Sonoma State University; 1801 E Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA, 94928;
[email protected]; Conner Cimmiyotti, Michelle Halbur, Eric Cecil, Julianne Bradbury, Derek Girman
A series of large wildfires swept through northern California in October 2017, burning over 245,000 acres. The
Tubbs Fire, which grew to become the most destructive wildfire in the history of California, burned large swaths of
protected lands in the Mayacamas Mountains and elsewhere. In 2015, we established amphibian and reptile
sampling plots at the Pepperwood Preserve in the Mayacamas Mountains within what became the footprint of the
Tubbs Fire as well as at the Fairfield Osborn Preserve on Sonoma Mountain. These sampling plots were placed at
and near four ephemeral ponds in three habitat types: grassland, forest canopy edge, and forest. To investigate the
effects of wildfire and other environmental variables on the amphibian and reptile communities of these areas, we
compared two years of data on herpetofauna community composition from immediately before the fire with data
we collected immediately after the fire.
Ecology and Conservation of Amphibians and Reptiles I
LONG TERM AVIAN ABUNDANCE AND DIVERSITY ON THE STONE LAKES NWR
Stan Wright; Sacramento City College; 3835 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento,, CA, 95822; 530-878-0420;
[email protected]; Beatrix Treiterer, Regina Dingler, Robert Meyer
During the past twenty years over 26,450 birds from 124 species have been captured and banded on the Stone
Lakes National Wildlife Refuge using a continuous effort mist net program. The Refuge bird banding station
samples birds associated with riparian/grassland ecotones. The Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, located east
of Elk Grove, California was established in 1994 and comprises over 2,600 ha in the Stone Lakes Basin. The Refuge
has two ancient oxbow lakes, seasonal and permanent wetlands and associated riparian and grasslands which
provide habitat for resident and migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. The Refuge bird banding station began
sampling birds in 1996 and has continued throughout the restoration period of these wetlands and riparian
habitats. From the capture and recapture data we analyzed capture diversity, abundance, age structure, and
recruitment in both resident, winter and summer birds over time and relative to annual changes in rainfall on the
Refuge. Our findings indicate there were changes in recruitment in three resident species wrentit, song sparrow
and spotted towhee over time corresponding with changes in rainfall patterns. We divided rainfall years into
drought, average and flood conditions to compare age structure, capture diversity and recruitment.
Poster Session
REMOTE CAMERA USE ON RANGELAND: METHODS TO KEEP YOUR CAMERA INTACT WHEN ITCHY CATTLE
ABOUND
Andrea K Wuenschel; H.T. Harvey and Associates; 983 University Avenue, Building D, Los Gatos, CA, 95032; 650-
465-0751; [email protected];
Remote cameras are commonly used to monitor a variety of wildlife species for behavioral studies, document
wildlife presence/absence, and to record scavenging events during carcass persistence trials for fatality monitoring
projects. While performing a remote camera study on rangeland in the San Francisco Bay Area during the fall of
2016, it was discovered that cattle were knocking over cameras by rubbing on the camera or the camera post,
often breaking the camera brackets and rendering the camera useless until repaired. Several changes to the
remote camera setup were made over the course of several months, including a deterrent in the form of four T-
posts surrounding the camera, changing out the nylon straps for zip ties, and hanging the camera loosely on the
post instead attaching it tightly. After much experimentation with materials and observations of cattle behavior, a
final configuration completely eliminated camera brackets being broken by cattle and additionally greatly
decreased the number of events where cameras were knocked over.
Poster Session