Reports prepared for the Fish and Game Commission; reports prepared by nongame and regional wildlife staff; published literature with department authors or contributors; nongame reports from outside agencies or groupsCDFW Data Portal RSS Feed GeneratorThu, 26 Mar 2026 13:42:37 -0700https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/documents/ContextDocs.aspx?cat=NonGame-ReportsCalifornia Department of Fish and Wildlife Data Portal120https://nrm.dfg.ca.govhttps://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/images/ca_dfg/CDFW-Insignia-146x193.png85en-usSearch Documentshttps://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/documents/ContextDocs.aspx?cat=NonGame-ReportssearchInternalReportReport to the Legislature on Fully Protected Species - In July 2023, the California Legislature passed Senate Bill 147 (SB 147) that modified the fully protected species statutes. The legislation required the Department to "develop a plan on or before July 1, 2024, to assess the population status of each fully protected species. The plan shall include recommendations to the Legislature for resources necessary to determine the scientific status of each fully protected species." This report presents the Department's initial review of the existing available information on the scientific status of each of the state's fully protected species, a plan for producing robust population status assessments for each species, and an estimate of the resources required to complete the assessments.243711:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=243711Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:42:37 -07002024-07-01T00:00:00California Least Tern Breeding Survey - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2018 and 2019 with observers at 60 nesting sites throughout California providing data. In 2018, nest initiation peaked in mid-May, chick hatching in early-mid June, and fledgling observations in early-mid July. An estimated 3,741-4,502 California least tern breeding pairs established 4,729 nests and produced 841-1,125 fledglings at 50 documented sites across California. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.19 to 0.30. Statewide, 7,927 eggs were reported, with a statewide clutch size of 1.68. In 2019 a total of 59 sites were surveyed and nest initiation peaked in early to mid-May and the start of chick hatching peaked in early June. The date of first fledgling observation peaked in late June. An estimated 3,169-4,037 California least tern breeding pairs established 4,485 nests and produced 734-958 fledglings. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.18 to 0.30. Individual egg fates and clutch sizes were not recorded in 2019 as part of the statewide data collection effort. 219962:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=219962Thu, 08 Feb 2024 10:50:56 -08002024-02-08T00:00:00Greater sage grouse - CDFW's evaluation of a petition to list the Greater Sage grouse under CESA218543:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=218543Thu, 04 Jan 2024 15:33:24 -08002023-09-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190354:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190354Thu, 22 Jun 2023 08:22:28 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00ConservationStrategyA Conservation Strategy for the Sierra Nevada Red Fox - The Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator; SNRF) is a montane subspecies of red fox native to California and Oregon. The distribution, abundance, and genetic diversity of some extant SNRF populations have declined substantially since the 1920's, elevating concern for the continued viability of the subspecies and prompting the development of this Strategy.203561:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=203561Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:33:42 -07002022-06-01T00:00:00Internal_Reportmonitoring endangered bird nesting - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2017, with a known 29 active nesting sites providing data, a decrease of 5 active nesting sites from 2016. An estimated 4097-5598 tern breeding pairs established 5983 nests and produced 1131-1655 fledglings across California. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.2 to 0.4. Statewide,9518 eggs were reported, with an average clutch size of 1.72 eggs.193696:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=193696Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:32:22 -07002021-01-01T00:00:00PublishedPaperwater catchments and wildlife - Water often limits the distribution and productivity of wildlife in arid environments. Consequently, resource managers have constructed artificial water catchments (AWCs) in deserts of the southwestern United States, assuming that additional free water benefits wildlife. We tested this assumption by using data from acoustic and camera trap surveys to determine whether AWCs influenced the distributions of terrestrial mammals (>0.5 kg), birds, and bats in the Mojave Desert, California, USA. We sampled 200 sites in 2016–2017 using camera traps and acoustic recording units, 52 of which had AWCs. We identified detections to the species-level, and modeled occupancy for each of the 44 species of wildlife photographed or recorded. Artificial water catchments explained spatial variation in occupancy for 8 terrestrial mammals, 4 bats, and 18 bird species. Occupancy of 18 species was strongly and positively associated with AWCs, whereas 1 species (i.e., horned lark [Eremophila alpestris]) was negatively associated. Access to an AWC had a larger influence on species’ distributions than precipitation and slope and was nearly as influential as temperature. In our study area, AWCs functioned as an important influence on wildlife occupancy, which supports the longheld assumption that AWCs may benefit wildlife in arid habitats. We encourage managers to maintain existing AWCs, particularly those in areas forecasted to have the largest decrease in water availability. We also recommend long-term, systematic monitoring of AWCs, which will facilitate more informed management decisions. 172803:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=172803Mon, 17 Apr 2023 02:11:40 -07002019-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-08 - A statewide shorebird reporting program was initiated in July 1969 by the California Department of Fish and Game. Objectives of the California Shorebird Survey are to determine seasonal shorebird occurrence and population indices at important wintering areas in California. Censusing efforts between July, 1969 and June, 1970 resulted in 463 censuses conducted at 34 census sites by 76 volunteer observers. Thirty-four shorebird species were recorded.170406:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170406Mon, 17 Apr 2023 01:54:21 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00ExternalReportinvasive species - Final Report to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, California under Cooperative Agreement #11420-1933-CM02 by ECORP Consulting, Inc. April 11, 2005. 72 pp. and Appendices. Summarizes current (2005) knowledge regarding Folsom population of N. fasciata166138:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166138Mon, 17 Apr 2023 01:21:09 -07002005-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationstatus review - The Center for Biological Diversity and Endangered Habitats League (Petitioners) submitted a petition (Petition) to the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) to list the Quino Checkerspot Butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA).the This report contains information the Department used to determine that the Petition provides sufficient scientific information to indicate that the petitioned action to list the Quino Checkerspot Butterfly as endangered may be warranted. The Department recommended the Commission accept the Petition for further consideration under CESA.194990:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=194990Tue, 31 Aug 2021 16:35:59 -07002020-12-01T00:00:00ExternalReportPopulation Report - Condor status report that gives wild and captive population numbers for 2018170382:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170382Wed, 07 Jul 2021 14:53:04 -07002020-12-31T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190371:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190371Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:15:39 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190370:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190370Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:15:18 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190368:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190368Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:14:54 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190367:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190367Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:14:34 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190366:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190366Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:14:13 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190365:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190365Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:13:52 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190364:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190364Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:13:31 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190363:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190363Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:13:07 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190362:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190362Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:12:43 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190361:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190361Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:12:23 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190360:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190360Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:11:56 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190359:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190359Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:11:12 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190358:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190358Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:10:26 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190357:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190357Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:10:06 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs190356:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190356Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:09:47 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190355:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190355Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:09:25 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190352:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190352Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:08:37 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190351:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190351Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:07:52 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190350:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190350Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:07:28 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190349:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190349Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:07:09 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190348:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190348Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:06:49 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190347:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190347Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:06:25 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190346:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190346Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:06:01 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190345:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190345Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:05:37 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190344:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190344Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:05:16 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190343:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190343Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:04:54 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190342:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190342Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:04:30 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190341:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190341Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:04:08 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190340:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190340Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:03:47 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190339:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190339Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:03:25 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190338:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190338Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:02:58 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190337:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190337Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:02:35 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190336:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190336Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:02:12 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190335:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190335Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:01:47 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190328:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190328Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:01:23 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190327:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190327Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:00:58 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190326:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190326Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:00:24 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190325:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190325Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:59:58 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190372:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190372Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:59:19 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190373:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190373Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:58:42 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190374:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190374Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:56:47 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190375:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190375Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:55:57 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190376:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190376Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:55:13 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190377:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190377Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:54:15 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190378:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190378Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:53:09 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190379:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190379Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:52:06 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00SSCCalifornia Amphibians and Reptiles - This publication provides a synthesis of the conservation risk faced by amphibians and reptiles in California that qualify as Species of Special Concern. Used the full list of native amphibian and reptile taxa known to occur in the state and eight metrics that capture key elements of declining and at-risk species to score all 73 nominee taxa and develop a final set of 45 Species of Special Concern. Includes species accounts and range maps for each Species of Special Concern, documenting available information on basic biology, known or hypothesized reasons for decline, and proposed management and future research needs.190380:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=190380Wed, 03 Mar 2021 12:17:08 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00Internal_Reportthis 1991-1995 study was designed to assess impacts of an herbicide spill along the upper Sacramento River on bat populations.175091:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=175091Wed, 13 Nov 2019 15:07:04 -08001996-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportBNLL Pre-Project Protocol - This protocol has been developed to provide a minimum level of protection for blunt-nosed leopard lizards (BNLL) when projects or maintenance activities are scheduled to occur within potential BNLL habitat. Disturbing activities should not proceed until appropriate surveys are conducted to determine if the species is present on the site. Surveys conducted according to the following protocol by qualified biologists provide a reasonable, although not conclusive, indication of BNLL presence at a particular site and yield critical information needed to prevent mortality and minimize impacts to the species. Individuals conducting the surveys are expected to understand the basic biological requirements of the species and have the ability to recognize potential BNLL habitat. This protocol satisfies the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) requirements when it is determined that formal (e.g. “Protocol Level”) BNLL surveys are needed. [Note: This protocol is appropriate for pre-project BNLL surveys, however, population monitoring over time on a site is best conducted using a permanent survey grid, such as described in Tollestrup (1976).]174900:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174900Mon, 28 Oct 2019 13:54:41 -07002019-10-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-10 - The status of the red fox in California is summarized. Impacts from non-native red fox to endangered species including light-footed clapper rail, snowy plover, and least tern are discussed.174482:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174482Tue, 17 Sep 2019 10:26:01 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-11 - California has a diverse assemblage of wild canines as illustrated in this article.170269:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170269Tue, 17 Sep 2019 10:24:34 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Bird and Mammal Section 93-20 - Population declines of certain species of migratory birds are discussed. Habitat destruction and brown-headed cowbird nest parasitism are implicated. California's participation in "Partners in Flight" focuses needed conservation attention on these species.174481:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174481Tue, 17 Sep 2019 09:10:34 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-15 - During the 1985-86 fiscal year, 105 new Spotted Owl territories were reported to the Department and entered into files which now contain records of 1,488 territories in 41 counties. These new territories fill out parts of the known range. Re-checks of 268 different territories were reported. The Department was involved in two contracts for field work on Spotted Owls. Both studies investigated the density, composition, turnover, and occupancy rates of local Spotted Owl populations. The Nongame Wildlife Section was very involved with the U.S. Forest Service's land management planning effort as it affects Spotted Owls. The draft land management plans/environment impact statements prepared by eight national forests were reviewed as to how they pertain to Spotted Owls and comments were prepared. One new Barred Owl site was found, the first in Siskiyou County and the fourth general location in California. A Memorandum of Understanding was prepared with the National Park Service for the study of Great Gray Owls in Yosemite National Park. The Department did not support any monitoring of Elf Owls this fiscal year.174480:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174480Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:55:55 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-14 - During the 1984-85 fiscal year, 88 new Spotted Owl territories were reported to the Department and entered into files which now contain records of 1,394 territories in 41 counties. These new territories began to significantly fill out parts of the known range. Re-checks of 161 different territories were reported. The Department was involved in three contracts for field work on Spotted Owls. Work on the habitat characteristics and breeding success of Northern Spotted Owls was finished. Another contract study, of California Spotted Owls in the central Sierra Nevada, was completed. The third contract study is investigating density, composition, turn-over, and occupation rates of Northern Spotted Owls in a 108 square mile study area in northwestern California. The first year's results won’t be available until the next report period. The Nongame Wildlife Section became much more involved with the U.S. Forest Service's land management planning effort as it affects Spotted Owls. Nineteen meadow systems in nine counties were surveyed for Great Gray Owls during the 1984 breeding season. A revised estimate of the state’s population is about 60 individuals. Recently, breeding has occurred only in 1981 and 1984, during years when the microtine and pocket gopher prey was most abundant. One known Barred Owl site was monitored and found to still be occupied while another Barred Owl was found occupying a site in old-growth Redwood which had been used previously by Spotted Owls. The Department didn't support any monitoring of Elf Owls this fiscal year. 174479:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174479Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:52:50 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-07 - During the 1983-84 fiscal year, 142 new Spotted Owl territories were reported to the Department and entered into files which now contain records of 1,314 territories in 41 counties. These new territories didn't add significantly to the known range. Three-hundred and fifty-one rechecks of 215 different territories were reported. Some territories in north coastal California were combined with other territories according to information supplied by field workers. The Department entered into three contracts for field work on Spotted Owls. The winter ecology and habitat requirements for nesting were studied in two of the contract jobs in northwestern California. In the third study, the breeding success and movements of Spotted Owls in the central Sierra Nevada was studied. Three technical papers were written during 1983-84. One described current research and management of owls in California, the second was a bibliography on Spotted Owls, and the third described the Department's role in the management of Spotted Owls. 174478:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174478Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:49:20 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 82-27 - Willow flycatchers (Empidonax traillii) were surveyed on six National forests (Inyo, Sierra, Stanislaus, Tahoe, Plumas, Lassen), Yosemite National Park, and along the south fork of the Kern River. A total of 72 singing males or pairs was located. An additional 49 records of singing males were provided by independent observers in 1982. A statistically significant association was found between willow flycatcher occurrence and meadow size. Birds were most frequently found on relatively large meadows. Flycatcher occurrence was also significantly associated with stream size, with birds most often occurring near large streams. No significant association existed between flycatcher occurrence and either the percent of the meadow covered by water or the percent covered by willow. A significant positive association was found between the occurrence of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) and willow flycatchers. Cowbirds were observed in the majority of meadows where flycatchers were seen, and were also relatively very common where flycatchers were found most abundantly, on the Tahoe National Forest. Factors which potentially have contributed to loss of flycatcher habitat in the Sierra Nevada include development of reservoirs, grazing of willow by livestock, meadow erosion, fires set in the past, lodgepole pine encroachment in meadows, and diversion of streams for hydroelectric development174420:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174420Thu, 12 Sep 2019 09:01:16 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-21 - In December 1973, the California Fish and Game Commission amended the 1971 list of California’s endangered and rare fish and wildlife by listing the following species: Belding’s Savannah Sparrow, Thicktail Chub, Owens Tui Chub, Modoc Sucker, Rough Sculpin and Cottonball Marsh Pupfish. Consideration of other candidates petitioned for rare or endangered classification was delayed pending studies.174339:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174339Tue, 10 Sep 2019 10:29:59 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-07 - Public concern over the status of the river otter prompted the California Department of Fish and Game's Nongame Wildlife Investigations program to undertake a statewide river otter survey. The Department initiated a licensed trapper interview program in 1973 and a River Otter Survey in 1974. River otter observations were summarized by date, location, and source; a list of licensed trappers interviewed as part of this project is included. 174329:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174329Tue, 10 Sep 2019 09:19:06 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-24 - Sacramento Valley muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) populations were surveyed in representative habitats during the spring and summer of 1978. Selected valley muskrat populations were studied by mark and recapture techniques throughout the breeding season. A total of 92 individual muskrats were captured during this period. Recaptures of tagged individuals accounted for a total of over 400 captures. The data collected suggested trends in distribution, densities, and reproductive success of California muskrats.174328:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174328Tue, 10 Sep 2019 09:05:57 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-08 - A statewide shorebird research program was conducted by the California Department of Fish and Game from July 1968 to June 1973. Objectives of the program were to develop shorebird trapping and survey methods and to provide current information on shorebird distribution, movement patterns, and habitat requirements. Studies included a shorebird trapping and banding program and a statewide survey program. An extensive shorebird bibliography was compiled in 1972. Techniques for trapping, banding and color marking and censusing were developed from 1968-70 by contract personnel and Department seasonal aids. Research activities were centered in four regions of the State. Four trapping methods were used: nightlight, mist net, rocket net, and drift trap. The most commonly used method was mist netting. Equipment was inexpensive and adaptable to various trapping situations. A total of 10,207 shorebirds was banded from July 1963 to November 1972. Body measurements were taken and birds were banded and color marked. Markings included colored plastic tape over aluminum leg bands and dye on breast feathers. Of the several dyes used, picric acid was most satisfactory. There were few sightings and band returns from outside the general vicinity of banding operations. California Shorebird Survey was a statewide network of shorebird census sites. Censusing was conducted from July 1969 to June 1973. Observers counted shorebirds at selected sites periodically throughout each fiscal year and submitted reports to the Department. More than 200 observers, mostly volunteers, participated in the survey. Censuses were conducted at 57 sites, and many of these were censused all four years of the program. Forty-nine shorebird species have been recorded in California. Status designations were listed for each species, and species accounts were compiled for the 35 shorebirds that regularly occur in the State.174278:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174278Thu, 05 Sep 2019 10:03:10 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00PublishedPaperacoustic and camera survey methods - Maintaining biodiversity in the face of land use and climate change is a paramount challenge, particularly when distributions of many species remain incompletely known. Emerging technologies help address this data deficiency by facilitating the collection of spatially explicit data for multiple species from multiple taxa. In this study, we combine acoustic and visual sensor surveys to inform conservation and land use planning in an area experiencing rapid climate and land use change.172804:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=172804Wed, 07 Aug 2019 07:12:55 -07002019-05-23T00:00:00ConservationStrategyconservation strategy NWP report number 2019-05 - In 2006, members of the California Desert Managers Group and the California Department of Fish and Game prepared a draft Mohave ground squirrel (MGS) Conservation Strategy in cooperation with the Mohave Ground Squirrel Technical Advisory Group. In 2010, the California Desert Managers Group continued the effort by drafting preliminary goals, objectives, and conservation measures and the Mohave Ground Squirrel Technical Advisory Group recommended conservation priorities. California Department of Fish and Game reinitiated work on the draft in 2012, incorporating the latest scientific information. California Department of Fish and Game, now the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, continued working on the strategy through 2014 with technical and stakeholder review. The resulting draft was reviewed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife executive team for policy consistency and by the Mohave Ground Squirrel Technical Advisory Group for technical accuracy. This final Conservation Strategy incorporates changes based on those reviews and additional species information developed since 2014.171301:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=171301Thu, 01 Aug 2019 11:19:37 -07002019-07-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 77-31 - From April through July 1977, surveys were undertaken to study the distribution of the Mohave ground squirrel in the southern and eastern edge of its range. Known range was extended eastward as a result of this study. Loss of historic range may have occurred in the Lucerne Valley and Rabbit Springs.171025:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=171025Thu, 18 Jul 2019 09:02:27 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 75-10 - From August 1973 through June 1974, a study of the resource value of the riparian habitat along the Sacramento River was undertaken. A total of 72 species of birds was detected including the yellow-billed cuckoo, a State-listed threatened species.171024:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=171024Thu, 18 Jul 2019 08:57:22 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportCalifornia Department of Fish and Game 85-09 - This is a joint report with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It summarized information about the decline of the California condor and management activities to reduce mortality of wild birds. The report was prepared at the request of the California Fish and Game Commission at its August 1985 meeting.171022:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=171022Thu, 18 Jul 2019 08:50:00 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-16 - Land use within California condor range was documented. Objectives were to determine current ownership, document land use changes over time, investigate land use changes in three important condor areas, and predict future changes through the end of the century.170684:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170684Tue, 09 Jul 2019 10:35:51 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-07 - During the spring and summer of 1979, the California Department of Fish and Game and the Bureau of Land Management conducted a statewide Swainson's Hawk survey encompassing both public and private lands. The primary objective of this study was to document the distribution and abundance of the species. Data on reproductive success, food habits, habitat requirements, and pesticide levels in addled eggs were also collected. The results document a significant and perhaps continuing decline in Swainson's Hawk numbers throughout most of California. Reasons for this decline are unclear, but habitat destruction has been a contributing factor. Factors associated with the wintering grounds (e.g., pesticides) need further investigation. The current known population is 110 pairs with an estimated population of 375 pairs. Estimates of the historical population size range from 4,284 to 17,136 pairs. A minimum 91 percent decline is inferred, and the species is recommended for inclusion on the California Department of Fish and Game's Rare and Endangered Species List and the Bureau of Land Management's Sensitive Species List.170609:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170609Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:54:57 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-20 - A survey was conducted from July 1972 through October 1973 to determine the current distribution of the Stephens kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi). Trap lines were set in 34 localities in San Jacinto Valley, Riverside County and northeastern San Diego County. The species was found at sixteen sites. Urbanization and cultivation have altered much of the historic habitat of the species. Data indicated the greatest number of isolated populations were near the westerly border of the range. 170608:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170608Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:52:17 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 72-10 - There were 440 nesting attempts by common egrets [great egrets], 136 by great blue herons, and 101 by black-crowned night-herons at the Indian Island rookery on Humboldt Bay during the 1971 and 1972 breeding seasons. Of these attempts, 368 common egret nests were successful, 116 great blue heron nests were successful and 88 black-crowned night-heron nests were successful. Fledgling totals combined for the two years were as follows: 711 common egrets, 232 great blue herons, 139 black-crowned night-herons. Average clutch size for 30 common egret nests was 3.13 eggs per nest. Productivity values (young per successful nest) were as follows: 1.94 for common egret, 2.00 for great blue heron, 1.57 for black-crowned night-heron. In 1972, three snowy egrets nested in Himalaya berry adjacent to the rookery and successfully fledged six young. Common egret broken egg shells averaged 15.6% thinner than common egret egg shells collected pre-1947; great blue heron broken egg shells were 16.6% thinner than pre-1947 measurements. Residues of DDT and its metabolites were found in varying amounts in eggs and nestlings collected. 170607:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170607Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:48:59 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 72-06 - During the breeding seasons of 1970 and 1971, 98 pairs of nesting ospreys were studied in Lassen and Plumas counties, California. Earliest arrival date of breeders was March 24. Egg laying extended from April 29 to June 1. Clutches inspected at 89 occupied nests averaged 2.5 eggs per nest. Incubation, which is shared by both sexes, lasted 38 days at 4 nests in 1971. Hatching success was 57 percent and nestling survival was 75 percent in 15 nests studied intensively. Age at fledging ranged from 51 to 59 days. Growth rates were similar for young in broods of 1, 2, 3 and 4 young. A total of 99 young fledged during the two years from 98 nests resulting in a productivity of 1.01 fledglings per occupied nest. This compared favorably with productivity data from other areas of the United States. Major causes of reproductive failure were destruction of nests by wind, failure of eggs to hatch and the breaking of eggs in nests. Thirty-eight young birds were banded; 20 banded in 1970 were also color marked.170606:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170606Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:44:08 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-19 - An ecological study made of Anaheim Bay, Orange County, California in 1970-71 documented the use of and its importance to resident and migratory birds. One hundred and two species of birds were found in the area together with a wide variety and abundance of other vertebrates and invertebrates. Anaheim Bay is an important wintering area for shorebirds, waterfowl, and other water-associated birds. Peak bird population occurs in late December. Bird activity and use of the area is highly dependent on tidal conditions and less so on time of day and weather. Three of California's endangered birds, California brown pelican, California least tern, and light-footed clapper rail, inhabit Anaheim Bay. Routing of the Pacific Coast Freeway through Anaheim Bay, as proposed, would have serious effects on one of the most extensive tidal marshes remaining in southern California.170605:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170605Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:40:56 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-20 - The primary purpose of this study was to find a telemetry system suitable for use on coyotes. Coyote behavior is secretive and nocturnal to a large extent so a telemetry system was needed which would provide maximum range with good directional characteristics and high reliability. The objectives of this study were to field test telemetry equipment such that might be used in subsequent mammal studies and to make an objective comparison of the transmission and reception characteristics of several types of transmitter collars and receivers. 170604:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170604Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:37:26 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-21 - The author summarized the results from the telemetry evaluation report (see Swick 1972-20) and made several recommendations regarding appropriate telemetry systems for wildlife investigations.170603:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170603Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:34:43 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-12 - During winter of 1982-83, age-ratio counts were made of wintering Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) and Lesser Sandhill Cranes (G. c. canadensis) in the Central Valley of California. Also, an effort was made to capture, band, and color-mark a sample of Sandhill Cranes in order to gain information on migratory habits and seasonal habitat use. During the period from 23 December 1982 to 4 January 1983, a sample of Lesser and Greater Sandhill Cranes was aged. The age-ratio for Lesser Sandhill Cranes was 3.8% (170 young cranes per 4447 total cranes aged). Greater Sandhill Cranes had an age ratio of 4.6% (43 young per 936 total cranes aged). Aging information was collected by University of Alaska, Fairbanks graduate student Tom Pogson while Nongame Program personnel were involved in attempts to capture, band and color-mark cranes. Five Lesser Sandhill Cranes were trapped, color-banded, collared and released at Merced National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Merced County. Two of three attempts to capture cranes were unsuccessful. Only 5 of 30 birds trapped were retained; the rest escaped capture. Lack of experience trapping cranes and rainy weather combined to result in low capture success during the 1100 man-hour/5-month period from mid-November 1982 to mid-March 1983. 170555:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170555Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:34:01 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-12 - Shorebird research was continued in California during 1971-72 under two ongoing programs: California Shorebird Survey and Statewide Shorebird Banding Program. At 42 shorebird census sites throughout the state, censusers conducted 750 shorebird counts. Revised shorebird census instruction sheets and reporting forms were distributed to observers in December 1971. Computer processing of three years of survey data was completed in June 1972. At four banding localities in California, 629 shorebirds were banded, measured and color marked. In addition, two banded shorebirds were recaptured from previous years. Trapping was conducted with mist nets and drift traps. Color marking was implemented in accordance with a revised coding schedule. Reports were received on 122 sightings of color marked shorebirds. 170554:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170554Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:31:35 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 72-09 - Little is known of the importance of South San Francisco Bay as a nesting area. Much valuable nesting habitat has been reclaimed or filled in the past. Baseline information is urgently needed for future assessment of habitat alterations. A study was conducted from March to December 1971 to document the nesting status of water-associated birds of South San Francisco Bay. Forty species, representing eight orders and l6 families, were studied. Breeding bird population indices were obtained on the great blue heron, snowy egret, black-crowned night heron, Caspian tern, Forster’s tern, California least tern, California clapper rail, American avocet, black-necked stilt, snowy plover, ring-necked pheasant, short-eared owl, burrowing owl, barn swallow, cliff swallow, long-billed marsh wren, common yellowthroat, Brewer's blackbird, tricolored blackbird, red-winged blackbird, Savannah sparrow, and salt marsh song sparrow. Total habitat in the study area was approximately 47,000 acres with the following habitat types: Salt ponds, 21,744 acres (46%); tidal flats, 13,530 acres (29%); open water, 6,500 acres (14%); salt marsh, 4,250 acres (9%); grasslands, 700 acres (1%); fresh water marsh, 200 acres (0.5%); and dikes and levees, 200 miles (0.5%). Nesting was studied from March to July with over 4,000 nesting attempts documented. Earliest nesting dates were in March for great blue herons. Peak nesting for most species occurred May-June. Data were recorded on nesting dates, location, nest type, and clutch size when possible for all species. Nesting success data were recorded for the great blue heron, Caspian tern and Forster’s tern. Population indices were derived from nest counts, rope drag and direct observation.170552:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170552Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:06:46 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 72-08 - A bi-monthly census was conducted at selected observation points throughout San Francisco Bay, February 1964 - December 1965. A total of 7.3 million birds was counted during the survey period. This report reviews the observations reported for 28 different bird species from 13 census areas to document population indices, seasonal distribution and movements of water-associated birds. Of these 28 species, 1,855,013 birds were reported. The western sandpiper was the most abundant species. Other species reported in large numbers were least sandpiper, willet, American avocet, marbled godwit and dunlin. Definite fall and spring movements were detected in most species. Three census areas accounted for 70 percent of the birds reported. 170551:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170551Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:04:20 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-04 - The occurrence of rabies in the wildlife of San Diego County reached epizootic proportions in 1966 when 55 animals were diagnosed as rabid. This epizootic condition continued until 1970 when 2 cases of wildlife rabies were reported by the San Diego County Veterinarian. The incidence of rabies in wildlife decreased to 24 reported cases in 1967, five positive cases in 1968, six positive cases in 1969, and six cases in 1970-1971. To combat this disease and prevent further spread of the infection, the United States Department of Interior, Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife was contracted by San Diego County to conduct a predator removal program in 1966. A summary of wildlife vector species trapped and clinically analyzed for rabies in San Diego County during 1966-1969 showed coyotes as the predominate species removed yet incidence of rabies in coyotes was the least frequently detected of the four target species being removed. Subsequent to these investigations, a study was initiated by San Diego State College to determine the effects of the disease and the predator removal program on the local populations of predators in San Diego County. Thus far, only coyote has been extensively studied.170548:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170548Tue, 02 Jul 2019 09:57:53 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 71-16 - An intense survey was made in 1970 of seabird nesting on coastal rocks from Cape Mendocino to Oregon. Twelve nesting species were identified and an account was made of 43,666 nesting pairs of seabirds on 34 sites. Five major offshore rocks in Del Norte and Humboldt counties were intensively studied. The physical and vegetative characteristics of these rocks together with seabird use were documented. The author recommended conducting an annual nesting census of seabirds and protecting seabird rookeries along California’s north coast.170546:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170546Tue, 02 Jul 2019 09:54:37 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-10 - An estimated total of 12,400 bobcats were taken during the 1980 hunting year and the 1980-81 trapping season. Approximately 8,700 bobcats were taken by trappers and 3,700 were taken by hunters. The total take was a decrease of about 1,800 from the 1979-80 year, even though the reported commercial take increased by 1,800 bobcats. The total estimated take was the lowest in the last five years, generally because of the continued reduction in sport hunting take. As has occurred in recent years, the greatest take continues to come from counties along California’s south coast. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records. 170460:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170460Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:53:41 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-06 - The California Fish and Game Commission, as authorized by legislative mandate, has established regulations for the sport of falconry. These regulations help to ensure the protection of wild raptor populations and optimum care of the individual raptors involved. In recent years there has been an apparent downward trend in the number of individuals involved in the falconry program. Although there were fewer licenses issued during the 81-82 period, there was a slight increase in the number of birds held per licensed falconer over the 80-8l period (0.90 birds per licensed falconer in 1980-81 compared with 1.01 birds per licensed falconer in 1981-82). Changes were made in falconry regulations to aid the Department in raptor management and law enforcement and to reduce unnecessary or overburdensome aspects of the regulations.170453:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170453Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:44:50 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-05 - The Department of Fish and Game provided information on the bobcat (Felis rufus) in California including management and harvest reports and population assessment. This information was requested by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for approval of the international export of bobcat from California during the 1981-82 season.170449:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170449Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:26:08 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-28 - Eleven Harris’s hawks were donated for release to the inter-agency effort to re-establish an historic population of Harris's hawks that disappeared during the mid-1950's. The progeny of captive Harris’s hawks was hacked as three to six month old juveniles. Juvenal and adult hawks that had been used for the sport of falconry were hacked. All Harris's hawks were marked with distinct color band configurations as well as permanent, lock-on, aluminum bird bands. Selected individuals have been fitted with "back-pack" mounted radio telemetry transmitters. Documentation of recent Harris's hawk sightings made along the river between San Luis, Arizona and Needles, California are included. Cooperative effort between the California Department of Fish and Game and the Bureau of Land Management. 170448:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170448Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:23:53 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-12 - A general outline for the bobcat management plan was drafted and some data from recent studies were compiled. A great deal more remains in the raw data form. Information on the parturition dates of bobcats during 1979 and 1980 indicated that 80 percent of the young are born over a nine-week period from the beginning of April to the end of May. Young were born an average of two weeks later in 1980 than in 1979. Current research needs center on getting quantitative information on reproductive rates, understanding the relationship between weather and prey populations, and the structure of bobcat populations, and developing a predictive environmental population model. 170447:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170447Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:19:34 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-10 - The 1983 Raptor Population Survey included 40 winter routes with a total of 1724.2 miles traveled, and 38 spring routes totaling 1636.6 miles. During the winter survey, 15 species were observed with an average of 193.1 birds per 100 miles traveled. The spring survey included 13 species with an average of 105.2 birds per 100 miles. The total birds per 100 miles from both the winter and spring surveys was 150.3, the second highest of any previous Raptor Survey. As in previous years, the most frequently sighted raptors were Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), and the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius).170446:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170446Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:17:34 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 84-12 - A total of 3,901 trapping licenses were sold during the 1982-83 trapping season. This is an increase of 5.8% from the 3,686 licenses sold for the 1981-82 season. This is the fourth consecutive season since the 1920's, when license sales varied between 2,500 and 5,200, that more than 3,000 licenses were sold in a single season. Number of animals taken, average price paid and revenue received by species is tabulated for 1981-82 and 1982-83. The number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers is reported by species and county for the 1982-83 season.170445:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170445Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:13:54 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-06 - Forty-two routes were surveyed in 1975 resulting in a reported 3,873 raptor sightings of 16 species. Raptor routes were not surveyed in 1974. However, they were completed in the following years: 1971 - total of 4,896 raptors; 1972 – total of 4,398 raptors; 1973- total of 3,962 raptors. These totals represent averages of 119.9 birds per 100 miles traveled in 1975, and 104.8, 97.1, and 110.3 birds per 100 miles of travel in 1971, 1972, and 1973, respectively. 170444:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170444Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:11:31 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-01 - The status of the bobcat in California is summarized. Topics included taxonomy, legal status, natural history, and harvest. The history of the take of bobcats in California is tabulated from the period of 1930-1981. The number of bobcats taken by licensed fur trappers is summarized by county for two periods: 1975-76 and 1980-81.170443:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170443Fri, 28 Jun 2019 09:08:48 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 70-18 - California’s coastal wetlands, particularly those in Southern California, are rapidly diminishing because of changing land uses. Three important wetland areas occurring on the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, San Diego County, were studied. Important plant communities were identified and vegetative cover mapped at the mouths of the Santa Margarita, Las Flores, and San Mateo rivers. A checklist of wetland plants was provided and semi-permanent transects for future evaluation were established. In addition, recommendations were made towards improvement of the coastal wetlands for fish and wildlife.170409:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170409Thu, 27 Jun 2019 10:25:15 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-04 - Floodplain riparian habitat in the Sacramento Valley was surveyed in 1972-73 using tape-recorded calls of the yellow-billed cuckoo. Cuckoos were found at 32 sites along the Sacramento River from Red Bluff, Tehama County to Colusa, Colusa County and in the Butte Sink, Butte County. None could be found in seemingly similar but less extensive habitat along the Feather River. At sites where cuckoos were present,(1) riparian vegetation exceeded 100 meters in width and 10 hectares in total extent,(2) standing or slow-moving water was present within 100 meters, and (3) there was dense understory vegetation, thickets of willow and usually large cottonwood trees. Roughly 10 hectares support a pair. As of March 1972, approximately 1,200 hectares of suitable habitat remained in the Sacramento Valley exclusive of the Feather River. This would support 120 pairs of yellow-billed cuckoos if all habitat were occupied. Survey work suggests 80 percent occupancy, but because the cuckoo is easily overlooked, this figure is uncertain. 170408:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170408Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:47:52 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-02 - The California black-tailed gnatcatcher is restricted in its United States distribution to limited areas of sage scrub vegetation in coastal southern California. The range of the gnatcatcher has been much reduced from historically occupied areas as a result of habitat loss. It is now presently known from Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Diego counties. Although highly speculative, the population in the United States is estimated at between 1000-2000 pairs. Since most known occupied sites are threatened with urban development and agricultural disturbance, efforts should be made to more thoroughly assess the population status and preserve existing areas of sage scrub habitat known to be inhabited by the species. 170407:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170407Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:33:59 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Bird and Mammal Section 89-05 - The author recounts the decline of the peregrine falcon by the mid-1970s, and through intensive conservation, the steady recovery of the species in California.170405:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170405Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:27:04 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-09 - The nesting habitat of the least Bell's vireo was analyzed at two sites in northern San Diego County from April to July, 1980. Vegetational characteristics of vireo nesting habitat varied greatly; however, dense understory vegetation was found consistently at occupied sites. Shrub stem counts averaged 5500 stems/ha at nest sites. Higher foliage densities below 3 meters (m) were recorded on the sites occupied by vireos compared to an unoccupied site. Examination of more than 100 nesting records and observation of foraging behavior suggested that the critical area for feeding was limited to vegetation below 6 m and that nests were placed below 3 m, frequently at heights of less than 2 m. Nesting substrates were not limited to any particular shrub species. 170404:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170404Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:24:02 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-03 - On January 28, 1969, an offshore oil well being drilled 6 ½ miles south of Santa Barbara, California ruptured, spilling crude oil into the Santa Barbara Channel. The amount of crude oil spilled varied from a Union Oil Company estimate of 21,000 gallons per day to double this amount by equally qualified sources. Departmental personnel were immediately rushed into the area, and on the February 3, 1969, Wildlife Management Branch staff personnel from Sacramento were sent to Santa Barbara to set up a wildlife monitoring program. The objective of the program was to determine the oil spill effects on wildlife. Seven ocean aerial transects and four beach transects were established. With the cooperation of the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and local Audubon chapter members, surveys were conducted daily in the first week, weekly subsequently. Results of the surveys are tabulated.170403:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170403Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:20:30 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 74-19 - A study was undertaken during the 1974 raptor breeding season to determine factors that affect breeding raptor populations in urban areas. The study area covered 9,835 hectares (24,303 acres) along 48.3 kilometers (30 miles) from Folsom Dam to the mouth of the American River, Sacramento County, California. Seventy-one active raptor nests were located, consisting of 10 species. The American kestrel and the burrowing owl were the most numerous of the nesting raptors with 19 nests and 16 burrows respectively. Fledging success, disturbances, and nest failures were documented for 53 (75%) nests. Of the 53 nests, 43 (8l%) were successful and 100 young fledged, averaging 2.3 young per successful nest. Of the 10 known nesting failures, 9 were attributed to human activities; 5 nest failures were caused by construction activities, 2 nests were robbed by humans, 1 nest was destroyed by high winds and young later taken, and 1 owl burrow was destroyed by motorcycle vandals. The remaining nest failure was caused by scrub jay predation. 170402:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170402Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:17:24 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-19 - Summary report on various projects undertaken by the Department to advance knowledge and conservation of raptors in California. Raptor management plan, prairie falcon monitoring, captive raptor breeding program, and Harris’s hawk population studies are highlighted.170313:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170313Tue, 25 Jun 2019 10:00:12 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-12 - In January and May 1979, forty-two routes totaling 3,420 miles were surveyed resulting in sightings of 3,826 raptors of 16 species. This represents an average of 112 raptor sightings per 100 miles, the lowest recorded since 1973 when 110 raptors per 100 miles were reported on a similar sized sample of raptor survey routes. 170312:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170312Tue, 25 Jun 2019 09:56:15 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 70-03 - Recent evidence of reproductive failures of the brown pelican in California prompted a study of the Anacapa Island population in 1970. From February to August reproductive success and breeding biology were studied. There were 552 nesting attempts in two colonies established on Anacapa in 1970, with but one young produced. Reproductive failure was attributed to thin eggshells which collapsed during incubation. Aberrant behavior associated with reproduction was also observed. In a survey of all traditional breeding sites in California, no other nesting was reported. Thus, in the State of California, only one young pelican was hatched in 1970. Double-crested cormorants nesting on Anacapa suffered the same fate as the pelicans. In at least 50 nesting attempts, only one nest producing three young cormorants was successful.170311:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170311Tue, 25 Jun 2019 09:53:14 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-08 - Twenty-two species of raptors were used for falconry purposes in 1980. Harris's hawk was the most popular species followed by red-tailed hawk, prairie falcon, goshawk and Cooper's hawk, accounting for 81% of the total. 170308:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170308Tue, 25 Jun 2019 07:45:15 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 93-19 - The following excerpts are from leaflets and other literature recently issued by various groups in this country that are promoting long-term management of feral cats in "controlled colonies." These include written material from animal rights and humane groups that are national (The Fund for Animals, Alley Cat Allies) or local California organizations (Humane Society of Sonoma County, Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County, Cat Caring Connection, Tiburon). These represent a sample of the organizations in the country that are actively promoting and establishing managed feral cat colonies. Entries are grouped into seven subject areas: Justification/Strategy, Goals, Management, Funding/Help, Disease, Relocation, and Wildlife. Grammatical errors have been left as written and are not tagged. To assist in placing excerpts in context, compiler's clarifications are given in brackets, [ ]. 170275:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170275Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:45:43 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 93-18 - An estimated 1,429 bobcats were taken during the 1992 hunting year and the 1992-93 trapping season. According to export tag reports, trappers took 1,039 bobcats, and hunters took 342. The total take was a decrease of four percent from the 1991-92 year and was the lowest reported take in the last 16 years. The average pelt price decreased from $74.15 last year to $43.92 this year. The average take per successful trapper increased, but the number of bobcat trappers decreased from 113 to 97. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and bobcat hunter report cards, and from U.S. Department of Agriculture animal damage control records. 170274:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170274Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:43:19 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00BibliographyWildlife Management Division 93-15 - The purpose of this bibliography is to provide wildlife biologists and other interested persons with some of the information sources on free-ranging domestic cats and their effects on wildlife. Included are references on the following topics: ecological investigations and other biological studies on free-ranging cats; the cat as predator, disease source, or prey; and, cat depredation and disease control. 170273:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170273Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:41:11 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 93-08 - The thirteenth consecutive annual census of the endangered Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus lonqirostris levipes) was conducted by call counts throughout the bird’s range in California, 9 March - 29 April 1992. There were 275 pairs of Clapper Rails exhibiting breeding behavior in 13 marshes, a 17% increase over 1991. One hundred and thirty-six pairs, or 49.4% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. There were dramatic increases in the Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Seal Beach NWR, and some recovery at Kendal1-Frost Reserve. Most of the subpopulations are small and face serious problems that should be dealt with through increased management and the provision of additional habitat or they will be lost. There is little security in the continued existence of the Light-footed Clapper Rail without several large viable population centers.170272:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170272Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:38:36 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-17 - Three hundred seventy-one trapping licenses were sold during the 1991-92 trapping season, a decrease of 27% from the 511 licenses sold in the 1990-91 season. This was the eighth successive year in which license sales were below 1,800 and the lowest number of licenses sold since the 1975-76 season. Current fur prices are not likely to cause license sales to increase substantially in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1990-91 and 1991-92 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1991-92 trapping season are included.170271:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170271Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:36:31 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-16 - An estimated 1,502 bobcats were taken during the 1991 hunting year and the 1991-92 trapping season. According to export tag reports, trappers took 1,089 bobcats, and hunters took 40l. The total take was a decrease of 21% from the 1990-91 year and was the lowest reported take in the last 15 years. The bobcat take decreased in all regions of the State except in the Northwest, East Sierra, and South Coast. The average pelt price increased from $49.50 last year to $74.15 this year. The average take per successful trapper increased, but the number of bobcat trappers decreased from 124 to 113. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and bobcat hunter report cards, and from U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal Damage Control records. 170270:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170270Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:34:59 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-08 - The twelfth consecutive annual census of the endangered Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) was conducted by call counts throughout the bird's range in California, 3 March - 18 April 1991. There were 235 pairs of Clapper Rails exhibiting breeding behavior in 11 marshes, a 24% increase over 1990. One hundred and twenty-eight pairs, or 54.5% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. There were dramatic increases in the Tijuana Marsh NWR, Seal Beach NWR, and some recovery at Kendall-Frost Reserve. Most of the subpopulations are small and face serious problems that should be dealt with through increased management and the provision of additional habitat or they will be lost. There is little security in the continued existence of the Light-footed Clapper Rail without several large viable population centers. A report entitled “Coyote (Canis latrans) food habits in Upper Newport Bay, California”, by Winfred Wong and Tom Babayan, is included as an appendix to this report. 170268:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170268Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:31:13 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-07 - This report describes the results of an intensive research effort to determine the daily behavior at sea and onshore, to find nests, and determine the selection of habitat in forest stands by the Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) in California. This sea bird is, in large part, an inhabitant of the wet coastal redwood forests of the northern half of California, and little is known of its habits. Knowledge of this species is extremely important, as a review of the species for endangered status was begun in November 1988 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and in April 1990, by the California Department of Fish and Game. In addition, evidence is accumulating which indicates that the California populations are becoming increasingly isolated from the nearest population centers around Puget Sound in northern Washington and British Columbia. The objective of this research was to augment our present study of intensive observations of the bird in coastal forests, in nearshore waters from land, and at sea from small boats. In the study described here, we attempted to determine the specific use of different configurations of redwood forests and to find nesting sites by the attachment of transmitters to birds captured at sea. 170267:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170267Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:29:21 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-03 - Five hundred and eleven trapping licenses were sold during the 1990-91 trapping season, a decrease of 39% from the 834 licenses sold in the 1989-90 season. This was the eighth successive year in which license sales were below 1,800 and the lowest number of licenses sold since the 1975-76 season. Current fur prices are not likely to cause license sales to increase substantially in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1989-90 and 1990-91 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1990-91 trapping season are included.170266:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170266Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:26:43 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 92-01 - This paper reports on a preliminary population viability analysis (PVA) for the Bank Swallow population on the Sacramento River. Bank swallows historically nested throughout the lowland areas of California at both inland and coastal sites. The remaining populations of Bank Swallows in California occur in a fraction of the species former range. Seventy-five percent of remaining colonies exist along the upper Sacramento River and other Central Valley streams. Since 1979, losses of Bank Swallow colony sites to bank protection projects along the Sacramento River have been documented and proposed projects conflict with the needs of the species along several reaches of the river. On March 3, 1989 the California Fish and Game Commission designated the Bank Swallow as a Threatened species. An important part of a PVA is risk assessment, the estimation of the likelihood that a population will decline severely or become locally extinct. 170265:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170265Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:24:01 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 91-03 - A total of 834 trapping licenses were sold during the 1989-90 trapping season, a decrease of 33% from the 1,244 licenses sold in the 1988-89 season. This was the seventh successive year in which license sales were below 1,800 and the lowest number of licenses sold since the 1975-76 season. This level is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period from 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold in the years immediately preceding the increase in license fees and the mandatory proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1987-88 and 1988-89 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1989-90 trapping season are included. 170264:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170264Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:21:19 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 91-01 - An estimated 3,455 bobcats were taken during the 1989 hunting year and the 1989-90 trapping season. Trappers took 2,677 bobcats and hunters, 715. The total take was a decrease of 49% from the 1988-89 year and was the lowest reported take in the last 14 years. The bobcat take decreased in all regions of the state except in the east Sierra. The bobcat take in that region increased by 62% (73 animals in 1988-89 compared to 118 animals in 1989-90). The average pelt price dropped to $17.91 and is the lowest pelt value in the last 18 years. Also, the average take per successful trapper and the average take by sport hunter per hunting day were lower than in several previous years. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal Damage Control records.170263:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170263Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:19:01 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 90-15 - The eleventh consecutive annual census of the endangered Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) revealed 189 pairs of Clapper Rails breeding in 9 marshes in Southern California. One hundred and thirty-one pairs, or 69.3% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. All of the small subpopulations face serious problems that should be dealt with through increased management and the provision of additional habitat or they will be lost. There is little security in the continued existence of the Light-footed Clapper Rail without the addition of at least one other large viable population center. 170210:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170210Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:32:25 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 90-08 - During 1989 extensive research was carried out on the status, movements, nesting, life history, and feeding patterns of the Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) under an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service, Minerals Management Service, California Department of Fish and Game, and Redwood National Park. This project was made up of 6 parts: (1) a survey of murrelets on the ocean from shore; (2) an at-sea survey from boats; (3) testing of capture techniques and radio transmitters; (4) determining activity patterns of murrelets in forest stands; (5) discovery and observations of nesting murrelets; and, (6) censuses of murrelets in second-growth forest stands. The research involved work in Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties. We report here primarily on the work in the northern counties. 170209:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170209Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:30:32 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 90-02 - A total of 1,244 trapping licenses were sold during the 1988-89 trapping season, a decrease of 9% from the 1,370 licenses sold in the 1987-88 season. This was the sixth successive year in which license sales were below 1,800 and the lowest number of licenses sold since the 1975-76 season. This level is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period from 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold in the years immediately preceding the increase in license fees and the mandatory proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1987-88 and 1988-89 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1988-89 trapping season are included.170208:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170208Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:26:13 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 89-19 - The tenth consecutive annual census of the endangered Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) revealed 163 pairs of Clapper Rails in 8 marshes in Southern California. One hundred and sixteen pairs, or 71.2% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. All of the small subpopulations face serious problems that should be dealt with through increased management and the provision of additional habitat or they will be lost. There is little security in the continued existence of the Light-footed Clapper Rail without the addition of at least one other large viable population center. 170206:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170206Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:22:18 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 89-06 - In fall 1972, the Department of Fish and Game requested information from the bird-watching community on Mountain Plover sightings in California. An information request packet, which included a photograph and a brief article about the species, was sent to newsletter editors of National Audubon Society chapters and was published in the Department magazine Outdoor California. The Department received 16 responses in the ensuing months, mainly from January through May. A summarization of information from 13 of the respondents is tabulated. 170205:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170205Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:20:14 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 89-03 - An estimated 10,837 bobcats were taken during the 1987 hunting year and the 1987-88 trapping season. Trappers took 8,017 bobcats and hunters, 2,773. The total take was an increase of about 1,050 from the 1986-87 year and was very close to the average take for the previous nine years. The greatest take continued to occur in counties along California ’s south coast although northern California areas accounted for most of the current year's increase in take. The average pelt price, at $142.73, remained relatively high. Also, the average take per successful trapper and the average take by sport hunter per hunting day were both the second highest recorded in the last ten seasons. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records. 170204:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170204Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:17:43 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 89-02 - A total of 1,370 trapping licenses were sold during the 1987-88 trapping season, an increase of 2% from the 1,347 licenses sold for the 1986-87 season. This was the fifth successive year in which license sales were below 1,800. This level is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period from 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold in the years immediately preceding the increase in license fees and the mandatory proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1986-87 and 1987-88 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1987-88 trapping season are included.170203:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170203Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:15:27 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-23 - During 1987, a total of 117 breeding pairs of Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) was located at 6 major nesting areas in Modoc and Lassen counties. An additional 10 pairs were found at 4 other sites in Lassen and Modoc counties. Two sites were surveyed that produced no nesting cranes. Fourteen young were observed at all sites checked. A combined age-ratio of 6.5 young per 214 cranes was obtained. Non-breeders numbered at least 96 birds. Efforts were continued by staff at Modoc NWR to capture and color-mark a sample of Greater Sandhill Cranes. Age-ratio data were obtained at the Thornton wintering area. The 7.3 recruitment rate may be below what is needed to maintain a stable population. Thirty-five color-marked Greater Sandhill Cranes were observed at the Thornton and Butte Sink areas. Aerial and ground surveys were conducted at roosts in the Central Valley.170202:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170202Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:12:52 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Division 87-22 - A total of 1,417 trapping licenses were sold during the 1985-86 trapping season. This is a decrease of 14% from the 1,650 licenses sold for the 1984-85 season and was the third successive year which license sales were below 1,800. This level of license sales is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold annually right before license fees were raised and trappers had to pass a proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1984-85 and 1985-86 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1985-86 trapping season are included.170201:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170201Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:10:59 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 87-12 - Organophosphates (OPs) are important pesticides that pose dangers to humans, domestic animals and wildlife. This project focused on identifying when an animal has been exposed to an OP using non-lethal methods which have minimal impacts on the test animal. The techniques developed in the laboratory were tested in the field by examining blood from California Condors trapped from the wild and raptors brought to the UCD School of Veterinary Medicine and by performing a study in which raptors (mostly Red-tailed Hawks) were trapped in and around almond orchards during the dormant spraying season when OP pesticides are applied. The results of condor blood monitoring suggested that the birds had not recently been exposed to OPs. Of the fourteen hawks sampled in the orchard study, more than half of the birds showed evidence of OP exposure. 170200:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170200Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:06:21 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 87-10 - The 12th annual study of wintering Aleutian Canada Geese (Branta canadensis leucopareia) was conducted from 2 October 1985 to 7 May 1986. Migration and wintering areas near Crescent City, Colusa, El Sobrante, Modesto-Los Banos, California were monitored. The estimated peak spring count was 4300 birds. Three hundred and forty-eight color-marked geese were observed 5401 times. Twenty percent of the geese transplanted to Amchitka Island in 1985 were seen in California. Over-summer survival for all banded geese in 1985 was 72 percent and over-winter survival was 85 percent. For the first three years after banding, survival of transplanted geese was not significantly different than that of wild geese once they arrive in California. Twenty-one Aleutians, including eight banded birds, were known to have died during the study. Four Aleutians were banded near El Sobrante in the winter and 139 birds were banded near Crescent City in the spring.170199:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170199Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:02:18 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-07 - During the 1986-87 season, 1,347 trapping licenses were sold, a decrease of 9% from last year, and still well under the 3,900 sold in 1982-83. This reduction continues to reflect the increased fees for a trapping license and decreasing raw fur values. During 1985-86, revenues from sales of furs decreased 34% from 1984-85. Also, the average income from furs, per trapper, decreased by 21% from 1984-85 to 1985-86. Again, bobcat was economically the most important furbearer; the reported take of 7,043 was 22% below the reported take of 1984-85. The average price paid per bobcat pelt was $107.86, a 14% decrease from the average of $121.96 paid in 1984-85 and resulted in a 22% decrease in the total revenue received from bobcat pelts. The 26,509 muskrats taken during the season comprised 48% of the total furbearer take. The take and value of all major species of furbearers taken in California were below the levels of take and value in 1984-85.170198:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170198Thu, 20 Jun 2019 08:59:03 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-04 - This report covers the analyses of age and sex structure data from bobcat populations harvested in the 1984-85 and 1985-86 season, the last two seasons for which this data will be gathered under the current program for managing bobcats in California. A sample of 7,167 of the 8,897 bobcats taken and tagged during the 1984-85 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 49 counties in California. During the 1985-86 season, a sample of 6,540 of the 8,099 bobcats commercially harvested and tagged provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 51 counties. For both years, data were analyzed on the basis of 39 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and with an adequate sample size. Going into the 1984-85 season, population trends had begun to level off at a generally healthier level in 1982-83 and 1983-84 than in the four seasons previous to that. As a result of this information, it is recommended that the age and sex structure monitoring be discontinued and only reinstated if certain harvest levels are reached. Special recognition is given to reinstituting population structure monitoring of the local population in the northeastern portion of the state where population conditions still are not as good as elsewhere.170168:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170168Tue, 18 Jun 2019 10:03:51 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-05 - An estimated 9,824 bobcats were taken during the 1985 hunting year and the 1985-86 trapping season. Trappers took 6,927 bobcats and hunters, 2,861. The total take was a decrease of about 700 from the 1984-85 year and was lower than any total take since 1976-77 except for the 1983-84 season. The greatest take continued to occur in counties along California 's south coast although most of the current year’s decrease in take occurred in southern California. This information is provided in a supplement to the 1985-86 Job Progress Report. An estimated 9,786 bobcats were taken during the 1986 hunting year and the 1986-87 trapping season. Approximately 8,003 bobcats were taken by trappers and 1,739 by hunters. The total take was a slight decrease of about 40 from the 1985-86 year and was lower than any total take since 1976-77 except for the 1983-84 season. The greatest take continued to occur in counties along California’s south coast.Lower jaws from 7,167 and 6,540 harvested and tagged bobcats were collected from commercial trappers during the 1984-85 and 1985-86 seasons, respectively. These provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations throughout California. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 37 geographical areas, each area representing a local population. The type of data gathered in the 1983-84 season sample were similar to that obtained in the five previous seasons. This information is presented in a supplement to the 1985-86 Job Progress Report. Going into the 1984-85 season, previous data indicated that the condition of most bobcat populations had begun to level off at a generally healthier level in 1982-83 and 1983-84 than in the four seasons previous to that. This trend continued through the 1984-85 and 1985-86 seasons. Parameters measured to determine the condition of both statewide and local bobcat populations have begun to cycle around relatively healthy levels. As a result of this information, it is recommended that the statewide age and sex structure monitoring be discontinued and only reinstated if certain harvest levels are reached. Special recognition is given to reinstituting population structure monitoring of the local population in the northeastern portion of the state where population conditions are still not as good as elsewhere. 170167:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170167Tue, 18 Jun 2019 10:01:35 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-06 - An estimated 9,824 bobcats were taken during the 1985 hunting year and the 1985-86 trapping season. Approximately 6,927 bobcats were taken by trappers and 2,861 by hunters. The total take was a decrease of about 700 from the 1984-85 year and was lower than any total take since 1976-77 except for the 1983-84 season. As has become normal, the greatest take continued to occur in counties along California’s south coast although most of the current year’s decrease in take occurred in southern California. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records.170166:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170166Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:58:23 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-07 - During the reporting period, reports of Spotted Owls found at 179 new sites were sent to the Department and entered into the database which now contain records of 1,647 sites in 41 counties. These new sites fill out parts of the known range in the central and southern Sierra Nevada and southern California. Not all sites are believed to contain breeding pairs and many sites may now be inactive due to habitat alterations since the presence of the owls was last verified. The Department was involved in three contracts for field work on Spotted Owls. The studies are investigating density, composition, turnover, and occupancy rates of local Spotted Owl populations. The Department conducted surveys of Spotted Owls on the four National Forests in southern California during 1987. There was some reduction in the size of the perceived gaps between the eight southern California populations of Spotted Owls. However, the regional population remains severely fragmented and half of the fragments may contain effective populations of less than ten pairs. Coordination work with the U.S. Forest Service on Spotted Owls continued. No current results are available from the National Park Service study of Great Gray Owls in Yosemite National Park. Five-year status reviews were prepared for both the Great Gray Owl and the Elf Owl. A population survey of Elf Owls was conducted during the 1987 breeding season along the lower Colorado River. Fifty-two sites were checked and an estimated total of 17 to 24 Elf Owls was found at 10 sites. Only seven to nine of the sites are believed to support breeding and the population represented by the responding birds is 15 to 18 pairs. It's likely that the state’s total population of Elf Owls does not exceed 25 pairs. 170165:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170165Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:56:15 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 88-10 - The 13th annual study of Aleutian Canada Geese (Branta canadensis leucopareia) was conducted from 18 October 1986 to 21 April 1987. Migration and wintering areas near Crescent City, Colusa, El Sobrante, and Modesto-Los Banos, California were monitored. Additional birds were observed in Oregon. The estimated peak count was 5000 birds. Three hundred and fifty-six color-banded geese were observed 3913 times. Over-summer survival in 1986 for transplanted and wild geese was 84 percent and 82 percent, respectively. Over-winter survival for transplanted and wild geese was 85 percent and 83 percent, respectively. Sixty-seven Aleutians, including 10 banded geese, were known to have died during the study period. Forty-five of these died of avian cholera in the Modesto area. One hundred and eight Aleutians and two Cackling Canada Geese (B. c. minima) were trapped and given color bands near Crescent City in the spring. 170160:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170160Tue, 18 Jun 2019 09:53:38 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-04 - An evaluation of coastal habitat for the potential reintroduction of bald eagles was made in the coastal counties between Del Norte and San Luis Obispo. Nine criteria were established with which to evaluate the areas. The criteria included compliance with the existing recovery plan, examining past and current occupancy of eagles, evaluating availability of foraging and nesting habitat, environmental contamination, disturbance, and logistical aspects. While bald eagles seem to show some fidelity to their natal area and perhaps to a natal habitat type, they may nest a significant distance from where they fledged. Thus, a large surrounding geographic area must be considered when choosing a release site. Not all counties were found to have good potential for coastal release sites. The most suitable release areas in the north coast are Point Reyes-Tomales Bay, Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, and Del Norte Coast State Park. On the central coast, only the Big Sur coast appears to hold potential for reintroduction.170090:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170090Fri, 14 Jun 2019 09:03:06 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-05 - Insufficient data were gathered on the Raptor Population Survey to permit meaningful analysis of statewide population trends. However, analysis of data from the period 1979-83 indicates abundant and stable populations of many soaring raptor species. The top three species in order of relative abundance were the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo iamaicensis), Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), and the American Kestrel (Falco sparverius). Based on this analysis, which supports other work, it appears that the Swainson's Hawk (B. swainsoni) is maintaining a very small breeding population in California relative to other species. Monitoring of Swainson's Hawks consisted of an intensive survey of four 36-square mile study plots in the Central Valley and a survey of the Sacramento River riparian system. Additional surveys were conducted by Peter H. Bloom in the Great Basin area of the State and by other cooperators throughout the State. Data gathered from these sources ranged from about 30 sites visited to one or two visited. A photographic survey (ground and aerial) was conducted of all study areas visited this year. A total of 114 Swainson's Hawk territories was visited; 82 were active. The number of known and active territories was higher in 1985. However, this probably does not represent an increasing population, but instead reflects the degree of survey intensity. Habitat destruction continues to be the major threat to Swainson's Hawk survival. Certain agricultural practices provide unsuitable hunting habitat and decreased prey populations while nesting habitat is threatened by diminishing riparian areas. Also, competition with other stick-nest building raptors may be significant enough to reduce Swainson's Hawk populations in the future if trends continue to result in even more limited nesting and hunting habitat. Thirty-six Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) territories were monitored in the Lake Almanor area in northern California by the Lassen National Forest. Results indicate the population is now reproducing at a rate that is more than twice as high as it was during the mid-1970's. 170089:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170089Fri, 14 Jun 2019 09:00:36 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 86-17 - The 11th annual study of wintering Aleutian Canada Geese (Branta Canadensis leucopareia) was conducted from 25 October 1984 to 5 May 1985. Migration and wintering areas near Crescent City, Colusa, El Sobrante, and Modesto-Los Banos, California were monitored. Reports were received from additional areas in Oregon and Mexico. The estimated peak fall population was 4200 and the peak spring count was estimated at 3800. Three hundred and ninety color-marked geese were seen 7150 times. Sixty-eight percent of the geese transplanted to Agattu Island in 1984 were seen in California. Adults of these transplants were observed at a higher rate (84%) than juveniles (59%). Eleven color-marked geese that were not recorded last year were seen this year. Ten of 20 color-marked geese banded on Chagulak Island were seen in California. Eighteen cases of Aleutian mortality were noted, nine of which involved birds that were shot. One hundred twenty-five Aleutians and eight Cackling Canada Geese (B. c. minima) were trapped and given identifying color-markers near Crescent City in the spring. 170088:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170088Fri, 14 Jun 2019 08:57:19 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportEndangered Bird and Mammal Program 86-18 - The fifth mid-winter Bald Eagle survey in California was conducted between January 2 and 16, 1986, with target dates of January 10 and 11. The survey was made in conjunction with the nationwide mid-winter Bald Eagle survey sponsored by the National Wildlife Federation. Previous mid-winter count totals of Bald Eagles in California were: 862 in 1979, 758 in 1980, 710 in 1981, and 787 in 1982. Participants in 1986 reported a minimum of 598 wintering Bald Eagles. This number is based primarily on reports for the period January 8 to 12, 1986. In the evaluation of report forms, possible duplicate sightings of eagles were excluded from the survey totals. At least 206 people participated in the surveys as individuals or as representatives of organizations.170087:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170087Fri, 14 Jun 2019 08:50:45 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-07 - The Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) intensive survey in the Central Valley served as the source for data collected on Northern Harriers (Circus cyaneus; former common name Marsh Hawk) in the spring and summer of 1986. A series of survey blocks was intensively surveyed for nesting Swainson's Hawks; additionally, sightings of all other raptors were recorded. This was the third year the survey was performed in this manner. Reported sightings of Northern Harriers began in 1985.170063:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170063Fri, 14 Jun 2019 08:45:46 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-23 - Extraordinary efforts to protect a nesting pair of peregrine falcons and facilitate successful reproduction on Morro Rock, San Luis Obispo County, are described. 168872:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168872Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:15:42 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-33 - The Department reported on the status of the Golden Eagle and compares it to the status of the endangered Bald Eagle.169461:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169461Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:14:36 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-30 - The Department of Fish and Game reported on the status of the Bald Eagle in the United States and details management activities pursued in California to recover the species169458:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169458Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:14:23 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-31 - A history of the establishment of the Bald Eagle as our national emblem is recounted.169459:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169459Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:14:10 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-32 - Recovery efforts tor the endangered Bald Eagle are explained.169460:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169460Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:13:57 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-34 - An explanation of the common name and scientific name of the Bald Eagle is provided to readers.169462:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169462Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:13:42 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ArticleNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-06 - The natural history of the California condor is summarized. Management activities to arrest the decline of this endangered species are explained.169967:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169967Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:13:15 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-23 - During 1985, a total of 100 breeding pairs of Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) was located at 6 major nesting areas in Modoc and Lassen counties. An additional 18 pairs were found at 11 other sites in Lassen and Modoc counties. Fourteen sites were surveyed that produced no nesting cranes. Twenty-five young were observed at all sites checked. A combined age-ratio of 9.6% (25 young per 261 cranes, breeders + young) was obtained. Fewer than half this figure will survive to make the flight to wintering grounds. Non-breeders numbered at least 115 birds. As in 1984, efforts were made by staff at Modoc NWR to capture and color-mark a sample of Greater Sandhill Cranes. Age-ratio data were obtained at Thornton and Butte Sink wintering areas. The values of 5.1% at Thornton and 3.4% at Butte Sink are below what is needed to maintain a stable population. Thirty-one color-marked Greater Sandhill Cranes were observed at the Thornton and Butte Sink Areas. Aerial and ground surveys were conducted at roosts in the Central Valley. 170069:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170069Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:12:23 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-24 - During 1986, a total of 96 breeding pairs of Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) was located at 6 major nesting areas in Modoc and Lassen counties. An additional 11 pairs were found at 9 other sites in Lassen and Modoc counties. Twenty-six sites were surveyed that produced no nesting cranes. Twenty-four young were observed at all sites checked. This total does not include Modoc NWR where reproductive information has not yet been reported. A combined age-ratio of 13.8 (24 young per 174 cranes, breeders + young) was obtained. Non-breeders numbered at least 59 birds. As in 1984 and 1985, efforts were made by staff at Modoc NWR to capture and color-mark a sample of Greater Sandhill Cranes. Age-ratio data were obtained at Thornton and Butte Sink wintering areas. The values of 4.0% at Thornton and 4.9% at Butte Sink are below what is needed to maintain a stable population. Sixty-three color-marked Greater Sandhill Cranes were observed at the Thornton and Butte Sink areas. Aerial and ground surveys were conducted at roosts in the Central Valley. Two major land purchases were made during 1985-86. Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley, Modoc County is an important crane breeding area, and Woodbridge Ecological Reserve (formerly El Dorado Gun Club) is an important winter roost area in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. 170070:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170070Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:11:44 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 86-19 - A total of 1,650 trapping licenses were sold during the 1984-85 trapping season. This is an increase of 3% from the 1,607 licenses sold for the 1983-84 season and was the second year in the last seven where license sales were below 1,800. This level of license sales is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold annually right before license fees were raised and trappers had to pass a proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1983-84 and 1984-85 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1984-85 trapping season are included.170068:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170068Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:07:36 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-12 - During the 1985-86 season, 1,417 trapping licenses were sold, a decrease of 14% from last year, and still well under the 3,900 sold in 1982-83. This reduction continues to reflect the increased fees for a trapping license and decreasing raw fur values. There has been an increase in the issuance of beaver depredation permits by the state and take of beaver by federal animal damage control personnel over the last six years. Coyote hunters and their take have decreased over the last 15 years.170067:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170067Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:05:26 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-11 - A sample of 6,303 of the 7,362 bobcats taken and tagged during the 1983-84 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 55 counties in California. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 36 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and containing an adequate sample size. The type of data gathered in the 1983-84 season sample was similar to that obtained in the five previous seasons. Use of information on the number of young which must survive per breeding age female and the average life expectancy were utilized in evaluating the condition of regional bobcat populations. Going into the 1984-85 season the condition of bobcat populations throughout the state appears to be the best since analysis of age and sex structure started seven years ago. The trend in average life expectancies continued upward again in 1983-84 as bobcat populations in 23 of 36 areas showed increases in life expectancies. Seventy-five percent of the 36 regional areas had average life expectancies greater than 3.1 years. This is up from 67% and 44% for the two previous seasons. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female was reported from only two areas and was down from six areas in 1980-81. An estimated 10,536 bobcats were taken during the 1984 hunting year and the 1984-85 trapping season. Approximately 7,495 bobcats were taken by trappers and 2,993 by hunters. The total take was an increase of about 1,800 from the 1983-84 year and was similar to the take in 1981-82 and 1982-83. As has become normal, the greatest take continued to occur in counties along California's south coast although most of the current year's increase in take occurred in northern California. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records.170066:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170066Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:03:53 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportEnvironmental Protection Program 86-10 - A study of the effects of Compound 1080, sodium monofluoroacetate (SMFA) was conducted with captive Turkey Vultures (Cathartes aura). Fifteen birds were dosed individually with SMFA in meat baits at levels of 20-100mg/kg body wt. The behavioral responses of dosed birds were monitored with video recordings and dose responses to sublethal and lethal doses were obtained. The sensitivity of Turkey Vultures to SMFA poisoning was temperature dependent over the range of 7.6-28.6°C. Severe sublethal effects including ataxia (inability to perform voluntary muscular movements) and intention tremors of the head were observed at approximately 75% of the lethal dose at both high and low temperatures. The debilitating effects of high sublethal doses would probably result in death of dosed birds in the wild. The lethal dose at 8-9°C was 40mg/kg and the lethal dose at 23 -9°C was 100 mg/kg. The high lethal dose levels indicate that Turkey Vultures are more resistant to the effects of SMFA than most species of mammals and birds. Emesis (vomiting) within 2-5 hr. of exposure was a characteristic symptom of poisoned vultures, but the amount of SMFA regurgitated by The high resistance of Turkey Vultures to SMFA indicates that birds are probably at low risk of lethal doses from secondary poisoning after consuming poisoned rodents, but the extent of permanence of the nervous system damage exemplified by intention tremors following sublethal doses is unknown. 170065:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170065Thu, 13 Jun 2019 10:02:04 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-09 - Research was initiated in 1985 to estimate density, reproductive rates, mortality rates, mate and territory fidelity, and rates of territory abandonment and re-occupation for Northern Spotted Owls (Strix occidentalis caurina) in northwestern California. Twenty-eight pairs of Spotted Owls and seven single birds, occupying 35 territories, were found after conducting a complete census between 1 April and 31 August in a 292 km2 study area near Willow Creek, California. Crude and ecological densities were estimated at 0.125 and 0.693 owls per km2, respectively. Reliability of the census count was assessed by testing assumptions regarding calling behavior of Spotted Owls and amount of area called during surveys. A maximum number of 72 adult or subadult owls within the study area, and maximum error of 14% for the observed number was estimated. Estimated reproductive rates were stable for pairs of owls checked in 1983, 1984 and 1985 throughout northwest California. Fledged young were produced by 37% of the 111 pairs checked, with 0.55 young fledged per female, and 1.56 young fledged per productive female. Of 22 adult and subadult Spotted Owls banded in 1984, 95.5% survived to 1985. A turnover rate of 12% per year for both sexes was estimated for territories with banded owls. Rate of territory abandonment was estimated to be 1.9% per year for the study area between 1976 and 1985. A conservative approach to managing Spotted Owl populations was recommended until further research can supply more confident estimates of needed demographic parameters. 170064:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170064Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:59:21 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00BibliographyNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-02 - A bibliography of literature on bobcats was prepared by the Department of Fish and Game.170062:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170062Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:54:29 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 85-08 - A total of 1,607 trapping licenses were sold during the 1983-84 trapping season. This is a decrease of 59% from the 3,901 licenses sold for the 1982-83 season and was the first year in the last six where license sales were below 1,800. The major reason for the reduction in licensed trappers was that this was the first full year where a test of trapping proficiency had to be passed to obtain a license and where license fees were increased by 200 percent. However, this level of license sales is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period 1950 to 1976. Data on number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received by species during 1982-83 and 1983-84 are tabulated. Numbers of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and county during the 1983-84 trapping season are included.170061:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170061Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:52:49 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section 85-06 - This report was prepared for The Nature Conservancy on the status of the yellow-billed cuckoo in the Kern River Valley. The purpose of the research effort was to do the following: 1) assess the 1985 breeding population; 2) test survey methods and explore monitoring methods; 3) test methods of capture for banding and radio tagging; 4) mark cuckoos for long-term population dynamics and breeding site tenacity studies; 5) determine nesting success; 6) determine habitat use; 7) determine home range size; and, 8) determine food habits.170060:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170060Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:51:01 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 85-05 - A study of the Spotted Owl the central Sierra Nevada began in 1982. Primary objectives were to determine the following: habitat preference and use; food habits; home range size; reproductive success; and, juvenile dispersal and survival. This report covers habitat preference and use.170059:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170059Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:47:06 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00PresentationCalifornia Department of Fish and Game 85-03 - Narrative summary of testimony given by Gordon I. Gould, Jr. on December 9, 1985, before the Audubon Spotted Owl Advisory Panel in Sacramento, California.170058:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170058Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:44:45 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 84-09 - The population status and distribution of nine species of birds occurring in riparian vegetation on the lower Colorado River in California were determined through field surveys and analysis of available population data, the habitat requirements of individual species and currently available habitat. All species had been listed previously by the Department as species of special concern. Five species (gila woodpecker, gilded northern flicker, vermilion flycatcher, Sonoran yellow warbler, summer tanager) are in serious danger of extirpation from California and should be given endangered status. Seven species including gila woodpecker, gilded northern flicker, vermilion flycatcher, brown-crested flycatcher, Sonoran yellow warbler, yellow-breasted chat, and summer tanager are largely dependent on cottonwood-willow habitat. At least 10 species (including three species not treated here) constitute an entire bird community that potentially will be lost because of the continued reduction of the remnant mature cottonwood-willow habitat. The only practical way to retain and attract viable populations of these bird species in California is to restore cottonwood-willow habitat by revegetating suitable areas.169986:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169986Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:49:12 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-16 - Food habits of the river otter were examined through an extensive literature search. Results were tabulated geographically, specifically for California, all of Western United States and Eastern United States.169985:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169985Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:46:29 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-15 - During winter of 1983-84, age-ratio counts were made of wintering Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) and Lesser Sandhill Cranes (G. c. canadensis) in the Central Valley of California. Counts indicated 7.6% and 6.2% immature Greater Sandhill Cranes at Sacramento Delta and Butte Sink areas, respectively. Aerial and ground surveys were conducted by Department staff and graduate student Tom Pogson and his assistant Susan Lindstedt. Counts were made at roosting areas in the Delta and the Butte Sink. Also, an unsuccessful attempt was made to capture, band and color-mark a sample of Sandhill Cranes in order to gain information on migratory habits and seasonal habitat use. 169984:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169984Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:44:37 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch 84-11 - The 10th annual wintering ground study of the endangered Aleutian Canada goose (Branta canadensis leucopareia) was conducted from 22 October 1983 to 1 I May 1984. Migration and wintering areas near Crescent City, Colusa, El Sobrante, Modesto, and Los Banos, California were monitored. The peak fall count was 3,800, which may have been high due to the presence of cackling Canada geese (B. c. minima). Approximately 3,150 Aleutians were counted in the spring at Crescent City. Three hundred twenty-nine color-marked geese were seen 4,950 times. Of the marked geese transplanted to Agattu Island in 1983, 82 percent of the adults but only 32 percent of the hatching year young were observed. Sixty-six Aleutians were known to have died during the study. Forty-three of these drowned, then were washed up on the ocean beach near Crescent City. Of the other 23 birds, 22 were shot (7 in closed areas). Eighty-nine new birds were banded in the spring near Crescent City. 169983:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169983Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:43:09 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-08 - Regulations to re-open a very limited and regulated season on river otters were drafted. The major reasons for re-opening the season were to offer increased "public opportunity", use the public to help control otter depredations, and to gather biological information on the species. Due to a great deal of public opposition, including a letter from 23 members of the State Assembly, the proposal to the Fish and Game Commission was withdrawn by the Director. A search of current literature on the food habits of river otters and an update of river otter sightings were made. The published information on food habits shows that river otters feed mostly on nongame fishes, especially in California. Currently, the Section's sighting files show 387 reports of river otters in 30 counties in the northern half of the state. Major areas of river otter concentrations are in the Eel and Trinity river systems along the north coast and along the Sacramento River from the delta to Lake Shasta. 169982:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169982Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:38:41 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-06 - An estimated 8,696 bobcats were taken during the 1983 hunting year and the 1983-84 trapping season. Approximately 6,576 bobcats were taken by trappers and 2,077 by hunters. The total take was a decrease of about 1,700 from the 1982-83 year and was the lowest in the last eight years. The majority of the decrease was reflected in the decrease in commercial take and was attributable to the continued decline in fur values. As has become normal, the greatest take continued to occur in counties along California's south coast. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records.169981:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169981Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:36:26 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-04 - A sample of 732 gray foxes taken during the 1982-83 season provided information on the age and sex structure of gray fox populations in 29 counties. Data were analyzed on the basis of 11 geographical areas to provide adequate sample sizes for each area and to allow comparison with previously gathered data. Population dynamics parameters remain similar to those calculated in previous seasons although there are definite year to year variations within any one area. At estimated average harvest rates of over 20%, there is correlation between changes in the quantity of harvest and changes in population dynamics parameters. This correlation doesn't explain all variations, most of which must be caused by weather. The figures representing the population dynamics parameter for all 11 regional populations are indicative of healthy populations.169979:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169979Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:33:08 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-03 - A sample of 7 ,939 of the 8,504 bobcats taken and tagged during the 1982-83 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 54 counties in California. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 39 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and containing an adequate sample size. The type of data gathered in the 1982-83 season sample was similar to that obtained in the four previous seasons. Use of information on the number of young which must survive per breeding age female and the average life expectancy were utilized in evaluating the condition of regional bobcat populations. Going into the 1983-84 season, the condition of bobcat populations throughout the state appears to be the best since analysis of age and sex structure started six years ago. The trend in average life expectancies continued upward again in 1982-83 as bobcat populations in 37 of 38 areas showed increases in life expectancies. Sixty-seven percent of 39 regional areas had average life expectancies greater than 3.1 years. This is up from 45% and 13% for the two previous seasons. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female was reported from only one area and was down from six areas in 1980-81. The regulations reducing season length in northeastern California have been effective in reducing take and in reversing the downward trend of population condition indicators in Modoc and Lassen counties. However, the general trend up was greater in most other parts of the state and conditions remained poor in the Plumas-Sierra County and eastern Siskiyou County areas. A sample of 6 ,017 of the 7,374 bobcats taken and tagged during the 1983-84 season will provide data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 55 counties in California. Analysis of the age and sex data was not performed because age data is not received from the tooth processor until after the due date of this report. 169978:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169978Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:31:27 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-11 - An attempt was made to capture, band, and color-mark a sample of Lesser Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis canadensis) at the Merced National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in the San Joaquin Valley of California during winter 1982-83. Greater Sandhill Cranes (G. c. tabida) were to be trapped at the Thornton area, south of Sacramento in the San Joaquin-Sacramento River Delta, but heavy rains made study areas inaccessible and apparently affected the cranes' response to baiting of potential capture sites. Five Lesser Sandhill Cranes were trapped, color-banded, collared and released at Merced NWR. Two of three attempts to rocket-net cranes were unsuccessful and of a total thirty birds within range of nets, only five (17 percent) were retained; the rest escaped capture. Lack of experience trapping cranes and rainy weather contributed to the low capture success. Over 1100 man-hours and $23,000 were expended during the 5-month study period from mid-November 1982, to mid-March 1983.169977:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169977Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:28:52 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 83-07 - The results of the 1981 California Bald Eagle nest survey are summarized, recent population trends examined, and major aspects of Bald Eagle management in California discussed. Historically, Bald Eagles in California bred statewide. With the spectacular growth of California's human population, and widespread use of pesticides in the post- World War II period, the breeding population was severely reduced in size and distribution by the early 1960's. it is unclear whether the population fell below its current level of at least 50 breeding pairs in the 1960s, recovering somewhat in the 1970’s, or whether the current population represents the same population extant but unsurveyed in the 1960’s. However, the population apparently is not declining in 1981. Survey data suggest that the population may be increasing. The effort to restore the Bald Eagle breeding population on the Channel Islands in Southern California has been advanced by recent successful translocations of young to Santa Catalina Island. Seventy-one breeding territories were surveyed in 1981 (including two new territories), 51 of which were occupied. Sixty young were raised for means of 1.2 young fledged per occupied nest and 1.5 per successful nest. Two of 11 documented nesting failures may have been caused by human disturbance in the early breeding period. Artificial nest structures were used by breeding pairs at two territories, both pairs producing young. All verified nesting activity occurred in eight northern California counties.169971:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169971Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:26:43 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-05 - A contract was developed in December 1982 with California State University, Long Beach, to provide for the 1983 breeding season study of the Light-footed Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris levipes). This rail (LFCR) is classified as Endangered by the California Fish and Game Commission and by the Secretary of Interior. The principal investigators in the study were Barbara W. Massey and Richard Zembal. The study consisted of the following three parts: A vocalization census of the California breeding population, a telemetry study in Upper Newport Bay, and a banding program. The fourth annual census was begun on 25 March and was completed on 11 April. Thirty-one marshes were censused, and LFCR were detected in 18 of them. A four-year high 249 pairs were found, for a 12.7% increase in number of pairs from 1982. Concern was expressed about the situation at Anaheim Bay, at which only 20 males were heard, and most may have been unmated. In the telemetry study, three LFCR (2 males and 1 female) were trapped and equipped with radio harnesses. The rails were monitored for 38 and 42 days (males), and 34 days, respectively. The banding program in 1983 was limited to color-marking of 2 radio harnessed birds.169966:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169966Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:22:08 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-04 - During the 1982-83 fiscal year, 389 Spotted Owl territories were reported to the Department and entered into files which now contain records of 1,194 territories in 41 counties. Significant additions were made to the knowledge of the population size and distribution of the species in Glenn, Lake, Lassen, Madera, Mendocino, Placer, Plumas, Santa Barbara, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, and Trinity counties. Three hundred and twenty-nine rechecks were reported for 197 different territories; no spotted owl responses were elicited at 2% of these territories. The U.S. Forest Service planning efforts proceeded to identify existing territories on National Forest land and to designate which pairs, in what distribution, would be preserved. Guidelines to be used in the planning process were updated and this version submitted to the Regional Forester, U.S. Forest Service in the hope they would be adopted. Two new Barred Owl sightings were made at new sites in Trinity and Humboldt counties where Spotted Owls are found nearby. Great Gray Owls were reported to be occupying three of the three territories checked during the report period. Elf Owls, representing possibly twelve territories, were found at both known sites along the Colorado River. 169964:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169964Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:20:18 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-03 - An estimated 10,426 bobcats were taken during the 1982 hunting year and the 1982-83 trapping season. Approximately 7,427 bobcats were taken by trappers and 2,951 by hunters. The total take was a decrease of about 800 from the 1981-82 year and was the lowest in the last six years. The decrease was almost completely reflected in the decrease in commercial take and was attributable to the uncertain market for bobcats due to questions over whether the export of bobcat furs from the United States would be permitted. As has become normal, the greatest take continued to occur in counties along California’s south coast. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records. 169963:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169963Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:18:22 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-02 - The program to reintroduce bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) onto Santa Catalina Island has now entered its fourth year. Since the population appears to be sedentary, movements and activities of the eagles were followed on a year-round basis. The purpose of this contract study was to document the use of roosting areas and describe the physiographic and vegetative make-up of the roosts. A second objective was to analyze the use of the island's habitat by the birds. A general overview of the other aspects of the project will also be presented.169962:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169962Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:16:23 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-01 - A continuation of the initial California condor reconnaissance survey of the Blue Ridge, Tulare County was conducted from 1 August through 9 October 1983. Late summer-early fall use of the area by condors was examined; the telemetry study of the two radio-tagged condors continued. New species documented included 18 birds, 7 plants, 2 mammals, 3 reptiles, and 4 butterflies.169961:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169961Tue, 11 Jun 2019 10:14:09 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-09 - Sacramento Valley muskrat populations were studied by two methods. Live trapping and tagging data were collected during the spring and summer of 1978 and the spring of 1979. Data was also collected from muskrats taken during the 1978-79 trapping season. Data collected from a total of 898 muskrats revealed trends in population densities, sex and age ratios, reproductive and survival rates, habitat relationships, and seasonal population fluctuations. A method for censusing muskrat population dynamics is also discussed.169700:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169700Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:42:49 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-07 - During the spring and winter of 1981, a survey of diurnal birds of prey was conducted by Department Regional personnel on pre-established Raptor Survey Routes throughout California. Thirty-seven (37) winter routes with a total of 1612.5 miles traveled were completed. This compares to twenty-six (26) routes and 1221.8 miles covered during the spring. A total of 17 species was observed during the winter survey with an average of 207.5 raptors per 100 miles traveled. The spring count included 15 species and an average of 77.7 raptors per 100 miles. As has been the case on previous year’s surveys, California’s most abundant raptors were Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) and the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), although during the 1980 Survey, the Turkey Vulture was more frequently detected than the American Kestrel.169699:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169699Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:40:37 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-09 - The Department of Fish and Game provided information on the bobcat (Felis rufus) in California including management and harvest reports and population assessment. This information was requested by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for approval of the international export of bobcat from California during the 1980-81 season.169698:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169698Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:38:36 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-08 - The second annual report of research activities and ongoing studies of the California Carnivore Study Group was compiled by the Department of Fish and Game. Study Group Members provided the source material. Completed studies and reports as well as ongoing studies were included.169697:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169697Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:36:34 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-16 - A fall, winter and spring study of the Aleutian Canada Goose (Branta canadensis leucopareia) in California was conducted from 1 October 1978 to 26 April 1979. Major use areas in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys and near Crescent City, Del Norte County, were surveyed and population estimates and band observations were made. The largest spring estimate recorded, 1250, was made in April. One hundred fifty-six banded individuals were encountered 3583 times. A total known mortality of 23 individuals is slightly lower than recorded in previous years. No sightings were made of captive-reared geese released on Agattu Island, Alaska in 1978 but 14 guide birds were seen 540 times. 169696:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169696Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:32:08 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-30 - A fall, winter, and spring study of the Aleutian Canada goose (Branta canadensis leucopareia) in California was conducted from 1 October 1977 to 25 April 1978. Major use areas in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys were surveyed and daily population estimates and band observations were conducted. The largest recent estimate of 1500 individuals was recorded near Colusa in November. Two hundred twenty-eight banded individuals were encountered 2587 times. A known mortality of 28 individuals compares favorably with previous years. The Canada goose hunting closures have been effective in protecting Aleutian geese on their wintering areas.169695:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169695Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:29:28 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-11 - There has been a concern among professional and amateur ornithologists in California that the number of Snowy Plovers (Charadrius alexandrinus) breeding in the state has declined in recent years. Despite this belief, up until 1977 detailed information on this species' current status in California has been very limited and information regarding its past status had not been compiled. In 1977 Point Reyes Bird Observatory personnel organized censuses of potential breeding sites of the Snowy Plover on the California coast between the Golden Gate and the Oregon border. In 1978 these surveys were extended to take in San Clemente Island, San Nicolas Island, the coast between the Golden Gate and the Mexican border, and selected locations in the interior of the state. This report gives the results of those surveys along with available historical information on the occurrence of breeding Snowy Plovers in the different parts of the state. The report is in four parts. Part I provides information on the numbers of plovers breeding on the Channel Islands; Part II includes the numbers on the mainland coast; and Part III includes the numbers in the interior of the state. The fourth part presents detailed information on the breeding success and numbers of birds at one coastal site through two breeding seasons as background material from which to interpret the survey results. 169694:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169694Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:26:30 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-26 - From December 3-20, 1981, age-ratio counts were made of Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) wintering in the San Joaquin Valley. A sample of 2,509 cranes in the Thornton Area, San Joaquin County, resulted in an age-ratio of 4.6 percent immature cranes. No age-ratio counts were made of Lesser Sandhill Cranes (G. c. canadensis). Time limitations prevented age-ratio counts of the approximately 1,000 Greater Sandhill Cranes that winter near the Gray Lodge Wildlife Management Area, Butte County. 169457:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169457Fri, 31 May 2019 09:40:30 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 82-21 - A total of 3,686 trapping licenses were sold during the 1981-82 trapping season. This is an increase of 15% from the 3,201 licenses sold for the 1980-81 season. This is the third consecutive season since the 1920’s, when license sales varied between 2,500 and 5,200, that more than 3,000 licenses were sold in a single season. Number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received is tabulated by species for the 1980-81 and 1981-82 seasons. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers is tabulated by species and California county for the 1981-82 trapping season.169456:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169456Fri, 31 May 2019 09:37:53 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 82-20 - A total of 3,201 trapping licenses were sold during the 1980-81 trapping season. This is a decrease of 1% from the 3,237 licenses sold in the 1979-80 season, the first decrease in license sales since the 1975-76 trapping season. This is the second consecutive season since the 1920's, when license sales varied between 2,500 and 5,200, that more than 3,000 licenses were sold in a single season. Number of animals taken, average price paid, and revenue received is tabulated by species for the 1979-80 and 1980-81 seasons. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers is tabulated by species and California county for the 1980-81 trapping season. 169455:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169455Fri, 31 May 2019 09:34:52 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-18 - Twelve nestling Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) were translocated to Santa Catalina Island in 1980 and 1981. The birds were monitored through radio-telemetry tracking and visual observations from August 1980-September 1981. All birds became self-sufficient within six weeks of fledging, feeding mainly on feral goat carcasses. One bird left the island soon after fledging, and another one was shot by vandals 7 weeks after fledging. The surviving eagles frequented canyon areas with oak woodland habitat, as well as the shoreline habitat.169454:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169454Fri, 31 May 2019 09:32:32 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-17 - State and Federal agency personnel and cooperators surveyed 70 currently used or historical Bald Eagle nesting territories in California in 1982. Four of these territories were discovered in 1982. Another five territories were not surveyed. Eighteen territories were found to be unoccupied, and 52 territories were occupied by one or two adult Bald Eagles. Pairs at 41 territories were reproductively active: 31 pairs were successful in raising 48 young to fledging age, nine pairs were unsuccessful, and success of one pair was unknown. All known active territories were located in eight northern California counties. One near-fledging age nestling was translocated for release on Santa Catalina Island. 169453:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169453Fri, 31 May 2019 09:30:29 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-16 - State and Federal agency personnel and cooperators surveyed 71 historical Bald Eagle breeding territories in California in 1981. Bureau of Land Management assisted in compiling survey data. The status of one territory was not determined and 12 territories were unoccupied. Of 58 territories occupied by adults, 48 pairs were reproductively active. Of these active pairs, 39 were successful in raising 60 young to fledging, 8 pairs were unsuccessful, and status of one was unknown. All known active nests were located in eight northern California counties. One nestling was translocated for release on Santa Catalina Island, and three other nestlings were banded in two nests. 169452:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169452Fri, 31 May 2019 09:28:15 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-15 - Over the past five years there is an apparent downward trend in the number of individuals involved in the falconry program. Though there were fewer licenses issued during 80-81 there was a significant increase in the number of birds held compared to the 79-80 season.169451:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169451Fri, 31 May 2019 09:26:11 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-14 - During the report period, 180 new Spotted Owl territories were reported and entered into Department files which now contain records of 805 territories in 40 counties. Significant additions were made to the knowledge of the population size and distribution of this species in El Dorado, Plumas and Tehama counties. Spotted Owls were still present at 84% of 82 territories reported rechecked during the report period. The first record of a Barred Owl in California may represent a future source of competition for Spotted Owls in this state. Long-term planning for Spotted Owls by the U.S. Forest Service continues with possible problem areas identified as: 1) what is a viable population; 2) maintaining a viable population throughout the present range of the species; 3) providing for long-term timber rotation to provide future habitat; 4) providing a buffer to absorb catastrophic habitat loss; 5) current suitability of designated Spotted Owl Management Areas; and 6) lack of support data on reproduction for the population model now being used. No plans were released to the public for review during the report period. Eight of 14 sites occupied recently by Great Gray Owls were checked for occupancy this report period. Only three sites maintained potential breeding birds this season and none of these nested successfully. No field work was performed on Elf Owls. 169450:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169450Fri, 31 May 2019 09:24:30 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-13 - A survey of the major stronghold of Elf Owls in the area north of Needles, San Bernardino County resulted in an estimate of five pairs. This is the same population size as estimated in 1979 but below the ten pairs estimated in 1978. No other Elf Owls were found at other sites checked in southern California. Three pairs of Great Gray Owls were found and followed on the Stanislaus National Forest, Tuolumne County. The males of each pair were radio-tagged and information on home range, habitat utilization and requirements, food habits and hunting behavior was gathered. During the report period, 139 new Spotted Owl territories were reported and entered into Department files which now contain records of 625 territories in 40 counties. One hundred and seven of the new sites came from western Siskiyou County and notable expansions in our knowledge of the Spotted Owl’s range came from the south Warner Mountains, southeastern Modoc County, Burney Mountain, eastern Shasta County, and near Mammoth Mountain, southwestern Mono County. Spotted Owls were still present at 74% of 58 territories reported rechecked during the report period. 169449:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169449Fri, 31 May 2019 09:22:15 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-11 - An estimated total of 11,233 bobcats were taken during the 1981 hunting year and the 1981-82 trapping season. Approximately 8,162 bobcats were taken by trappers and 3,037 were taken by hunters. The total take was a decrease of about 1,200 from the 1980-81 year, even though the reported commercial take only decreased by 260 bobcats. The total estimated take was the lowest in the last five years, generally because of the continued reduction in sport hunting. As has occurred in recent years, the greatest take continues to come from counties along California’s south coast. Data on the bobcat harvest were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual trapping report and hunter survey, and from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records. Regulations which divide the state into three zones with different season lengths continue in force. 169448:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169448Fri, 31 May 2019 09:19:56 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-09 - A sample of 553 gray foxes taken during the 1980-81 season provided information on the age and sex structure of gray fox populations in 18 counties. Data were analyzed on the basis of nine geographical areas to provide adequate sample sizes for each area and to allow comparison with data from the 1979-80 season. Of the nine comparison areas, eight show noticeable differences in population structure, generally with fewer males per female, more breeding age females, a smaller young of the year crop, and slightly increased average life expectancies. This may indicate a large reduction in males in the 1979-80 season and a poor reproductive effort in 1980. 169447:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169447Fri, 31 May 2019 09:17:12 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-08 - A sample of 8,177 of the 9,337 bobcats taken and tagged during the 1980-81 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 50 counties in California. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 38 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and containing an adequate sample size. The type of data gathered in the 1981-82 season sample was similar to that obtained in the three previous seasons. Use of information on the number of young which must survive per breeding age female and the average life expectancy were utilized in evaluating the condition of regional bobcat populations. The trend in average life expectancies was greatly changed from the 1980-81 season. This year 18 of the 24 regions which last year showed a decrease in average life expectancy showed increases. This resulted in 45% of the 38 regional areas in the state, up from 13% last season, having average life expectancies greater than 3.1 years. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female was reported from only two areas, down from six areas last season. 169446:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169446Fri, 31 May 2019 09:14:46 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-07 - A sample of 7,249 of the bobcats taken and tagged during the 1980-81 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 54 counties in California. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 39 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and containing an adequate sample size. The type of data gathered in the 1980-81 season sample was similar to that obtained in the two previous seasons. Use of information on the number of young which must survive per breeding age female and the average life expectancy were utilized in evaluating the condition of regional bobcat populations. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female is believed excessive, and an average life expectancy of less than 2.5 years is believed to be too short to produce a self-sustaining population. Of the 39 sample populations, 31%, up from 19% two seasons ago, had average life expectancies below 2.5 years. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female was reported from six sample populations during the 1980-81 season, the same number reported in the 1979-80 season. The regulations reducing the season length in northeastern California were effective in reducing the take. A biological response and possible signs of improvement will not be noted until at least the 1981-82 season. The condition of bobcat populations in the south coast area has deteriorated quickly and consideration should be given to a season reduction in this area as well as in Marin and eastern San Bernardino-Riverside counties where the conditions of the local bobcat populations remain poor. 169445:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169445Fri, 31 May 2019 09:11:58 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-05 - The Department of Fish and Game provided an informational report to the Office of Scientific Authority, U.S. Department of the Interior as to whether the export of California’s bobcats from the United States was detrimental to the survival of the species.169444:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169444Fri, 31 May 2019 09:08:20 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-26 - From 15 December 1980 to 15 January 1981, age-ratio counts of wintering Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) were made in the Central Valley of California. In the area southwest of Lodi, San Joaquin County (hereafter referred to as "Thornton Area"), 1898 cranes were sampled. Near the Gray Lodge Wildlife Area, Butte County, 440 were counted. Age-ratios were 6.2 and 3.0 percent immature cranes, respectively. No age-ratio counts of Lesser Sandhill Cranes (G. c. canadensis) were attempted. No attempts were made to estimate wintering population levels. However, about 3,000 birds (Greaters and Lessers) are known to winter in the Thornton Area and about 500-700 Greaters are known to winter on and near the Gray Lodge Wildlife Area. 169406:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169406Thu, 30 May 2019 09:42:31 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-25 - From April 1970 to December 1979, permits were issued to 26 individuals and institutions authorizing them to conduct captive breeding research under authorization from the California Fish and Game Commission and under the direction of the California Department of Fish and Game. All permittees during this time period were conducting scientific captive breeding research. During January 1980, changes in regulations were made to allow persons to breed raptors for recreational purposes. From January to December 1980, the Commission authorized five new permits for recreational breeding. Three persons, formerly in the scientific captive breeding program, have switched to recreational breeding projects. As of December 1980, there were 23 scientific breeders, seven recreational breeders, and three persons held both kinds of permits. During the decade of this program there have been 5 projects terminated for various reasons. As of December 1980, there were 302 raptors of 17 species authorized in State and Federal captive breeding permits for these projects. There were 147 breeding raptors held in 33 projects. A total of 217 young has been produced; 37 percent of the young have been released to the wild, 32 percent have been transferred to falconers, and the remaining 31 percent have been either transferred to other breeding projects, retained for falconry or breeding purposes, or have died. 169405:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169405Thu, 30 May 2019 09:40:19 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 81-21 - A total of 3,237 trapping licenses were sold during the 1979-80 trapping season. This is an increase of 36% from the 2,378 licenses sold in the 1978-79 season and an increase of 387% from the 664 licenses sold in the 1969-70 season. This is the first season since the 1920’s, when license sales varied between 2,500 and 5,200 that more than 3,000 licenses were sold in a single season. Numbers of animals taken, average prices paid, revenue received for the 1978-79 and 1979-80 trapping seasons are summarized by species. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and California county for the 1979-80 season are provided.169404:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169404Thu, 30 May 2019 09:37:20 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-18 - This report covers the 15 Federally-listed Endangered or Threatened bird and mammal species of California. Activities involving these species included administration of permits and contracts; coordinating actions with other agencies, interagency groups, and planning groups; reviewing and commenting on environmental documents; conducting or coordinating surveys; and, providing information services. 169403:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169403Thu, 30 May 2019 09:35:10 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-17 - Live trapping and tagging, tracking in snow, collection of scats and radio-telemetry were methods used to study Marten (Martes americana) from September 1978 to December 1979 in the Webber Lake, Perazzo Canyon, and Cold Stream Drainages of Sierra and Nevada counties. Forty-five captures of eighteen Martens yielded a sex ratio of 14 males to four females. The mean home range size was 297 ha (733 acres). Home range sizes (whose shapes were influenced by cover, topographical features, and the presence of other Martens) were similar but the distribution of telemetric fixes over various vegetation types indicated a difference in use intensity. Territorial behavior was found in both adult males and females. Martens are opportunists, with insects and Douglas squirrels (Tamiasciurus douglasii) the most important food source for summer-fall and winter-spring seasons, respectively. Martens orient to snags, dead and downed woody material, meadow-forest edges, and stream-side habitats. A population estimate of at least 2.8 adult martens per km2 (1.1 per mi2) was obtained. (This summary section was condensed from the abstract of Terri Lee Simon’s M.S. thesis entitled “An Ecological Study of the Marten in the Tahoe National Forest, California, 1980”.)169402:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169402Thu, 30 May 2019 09:33:29 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-16 - During the 1979-80 season, there was a 36% increase, to 3237, in the number of licenses sold over the 1978-79 season. This is the first season since the 1920’s that more than 3000 licenses were sold in a single season. Revenues from the sale of furs were down 13% from $2,399,565.30 in the 1978-79 season, to $2,093,268.20 in the 1979-80 season. The average income per trapper decreased 29% from $1741.34 in 1978-79 to $1243.77 in 1979-80. Bobcat was economically the most important fur taken, though the average price per bobcat pelt decreased 40% from $190.98 during the 1978-79 season to $114.20 per pelt during the 1979-80 season. Muskrats comprised 67% of the total catch with 84,604 pelts taken and the average fur value for muskrats increased 27%. All species taken except badger, mink, and raccoon increased during the 1979-80 season over the take of the 1978-79 season. 169401:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169401Thu, 30 May 2019 09:30:16 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-15 - California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus) breeding colonies on West Anacapa Island and Santa Barbara Island, California, were surveyed from 15 January through 7 September 1980. Ninety-seven pairs nesting on Santa Barbara Island, where pelicans had not nested since at least the early 1960’s, produced 77 young. On West Anacapa Island, an estimated 1438 young were fledged from about 2147 nesting attempts. The size of the breeding effort and the total number of young produced is encouraging, but the average 1980 California productivity rate of 0.68 young per nest is still considerably below the 1.0 young per nest believed necessary to maintain a stable population. Brown Pelican productivity data for all known nesting in California and on Islas Los Coronados, Baja California, Mexico, are summarized for the period 1969 through 1980. Double-crested Cormorant productivity data for the same period, for West Anacapa Island only, are also given.169400:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169400Thu, 30 May 2019 09:27:42 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-13 - During 1979 and the first half of 1980, 53 new Spotted Owl territories were reported and confirmed. Spotted Owls were confirmed for the first time in Amador and Napa counties. Spotted Owls at 30 of 393 territories known going into this report period were rechecked and continued occupancy was verified. Forty additional sightings made prior to 1979 were reported, bringing the total of known sites to 486. Surveys of known breeding areas for Elf Owls, made during the 1979 season, indicated a decrease in population size and an estimate of only 10 pairs left in California. No field surveys for this species were conducted during the 1980 breeding season. A study to determine the nesting requirements, prey preference, home range size and habitat use of the Great Gray Owl was initiated by the U. S. Forest Service in Tuolumne County.169399:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169399Thu, 30 May 2019 09:24:12 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-12 - A harvested population of gray foxes was studied in chaparral habitat in San Diego County, California, during fiscal years 1978-79 and 1979-80. During this study, 59 foxes were caught and radio-collared or marked. Densities of 2.54 gray foxes per square mile (0.99 per km2) and 3.01 per square mile (1.17 per km2) were calculated during the two respective years. Sex ratios varied slightly on a seasonal basis. The sex ratio observed during the trapping season was 1.4 to 1.5 males per female while off-season sex ratios were lower, 1 to 1.25 males per female. Young-of-the-year gray foxes dominated the population, comprising slightly more than 51% of the population both years. Natural mortality appeared to not be as significant as harvest mortality which amounted to 67 to 82% of the total mortality. Total mortality was about 51% for young-of-the-year and 49 to 60% for adults. No reproductive data were gathered but population dynamics data indicate the litter size needed to maintain a stable population was considerably lower than previously reported litter sizes for gray foxes. This and other life table information, including life expectancy data, indicate that population growth occurred between the two seasons studied. 169398:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169398Thu, 30 May 2019 09:22:33 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-11 - An estimated total of 14,200 bobcats were taken during the 1979 hunting year and the 1979-80 trapping season. Approximately 6,700 bobcats were taken by trappers and 7,500 were taken by hunters. The total take was an increase of about 1,500 from the 1978-79 year with an increase in hunter take representing the difference. However, the 1979-80 total is considerably lower than the 1976-77 and 1977-78 total. These data were gathered through the process of tagging bobcat furs for export, the annual hunter survey, and U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service depredation control records. Regulations were adopted to divide the state into three zones with different season lengths for bobcats and to set a sport hunting bag limit and tagging and reporting requirements. 169397:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169397Thu, 30 May 2019 09:20:02 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-10 - A sample of 5,273 of the bobcats taken and tagged during the 1979-80 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 52 counties. Data also were analyzed on the basis of 39 geographical areas, each area representing a local population and containing an adequate sample size. Data from the 1979-80 sample were similar to that obtained during 1978-79. Use of information on the number of young which must survive per breeding age female and the average life expectancy were utilized in evaluating the condition of regional bobcat populations. A survival rate of more than one young per breeding age female is believed excessive, and an average life expectancy of less than 2.5 years is believed too short too short to reproduce a sustaining population. Calculation of an intrinsic rate of increase was positive in all but two areas demonstrating a positive reaction of population to reproduce themselves under current conditions. Regulations already passed for the 1980-81 season will divide the state into three harvest zones for bobcat with varying lengths of season. The shortest season will be in the northeast part of California where average life expectancy is low and many young are having to survive per female. The longest season will be allowed in south coastal California where the average life expectancy is the longest and population turnover is the lowest. 169396:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169396Thu, 30 May 2019 09:17:52 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-04 - A study to determine the status of Goshawk in California was conducted from 22 June to 22 August 1981. Study objectives were to gather preliminary data on the species, research literature, and make the necessary contacts with other agencies (principally the U. S. Forest Service) in order to facilitate future cooperative studies. Study was focused in the montane coniferous forests of the state. Reports of approximately 180 recently active Goshawk territories were received from U.S. Forest Service biologists and other sources. Most information on nest territories came from the north and central Sierra Nevada and the Great Basin region in northeastern California. Limited data on food habits and reproductive activities were collected. Sixteen Goshawks, 10 nestlings and six adults, were banded during the study. Further intensive studies are recommended to determine the status of the Goshawk in California.169395:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169395Thu, 30 May 2019 09:15:11 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-03 - Through cooperation with various agencies and individuals, 70 Bald Eagle nesting territories were checked during the 1980 breeding season survey in California. The status of two territories was unknown and 16 territories were unoccupied. Of 52 occupied territories, 44 nests were active. Of these active nests, nine were unsuccessful. The 35 known successful nesting pairs produced 57 young. All known active nest sites are located in seven northern California counties.169394:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169394Thu, 30 May 2019 09:12:26 -07001981-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWildlife Management Branch 80-21 - A total of 2,378 trapping licenses were sold during the 1978-79 trapping season. This is an increase of 26% from the 1,889 licenses sold in the 1977-78 season and an increase of 258% from the 664 licenses sold ten seasons ago in the 1969-70 season. However, this number of licenses is still below the 2,500 to 5,200 licenses sold annually during the 1920’s. Numbers of animals taken, average prices paid, revenue received for the 1977-78 and 1978-79 trapping seasons are summarized by species. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and California county for the 1978-79 season are provided.169338:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169338Tue, 28 May 2019 11:01:30 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 80-20 - Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) populations were studied in agricultural canals of the Sacramento Valley, Yolo County, California, by live trapping and tagging during 1978 and 1979. Information on aspects of the dynamics of muskrat populations came from data collected on 898 muskrats.169337:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169337Tue, 28 May 2019 10:34:20 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-27 - During December 1979, age ratio counts were made of Greater Sandhill Cranes (Grus canadensis tabida) wintering in the Central Valley. Samples of 1,778 cranes in the Thornton area and 663 near the Gray Lodge Wildlife Area resulted in age ratios of 6.6 and 7.8 percent immature cranes, respectively. Due to small sample sizes, no age ratio counts were made of Lesser Sandhill Cranes (G. c. canadensis). Wintering population estimates 3,000 birds in the Thornton area (this includes both Greater and Lesser Sandhill Cranes). Near Gray Lodge, about 600 Greater Sandhill Cranes and 50 Lesser Sandhill Cranes were counted in mid-December. 169336:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169336Tue, 28 May 2019 10:32:02 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-25 - Information on the current distribution of spotted skunks was collected from sighting records, museum specimens, and recent literature. Efforts yielded 228 occurrence reports, representing 277 spotted skunks. Present distribution was determined to include 49 counties and to extend throughout most of California. Spotted skunks were not reported from higher elevations in the Sierra Nevada and from portions of the Mojave Desert. Expansions of the known range of spotted skunks, as described by Grinnell et al. (1937) were noted in the Colorado and Mojave deserts. It is not known if these are true range extensions or merely expansions of the known range of spotted skunks. Occurrence reports indicate greatest spotted skunk abundance in coastal areas and in northern California. Occurrences of spotted skunks were most scarce in the true deserts, Great Basin, and northeastern portion of the state. 169334:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169334Tue, 28 May 2019 10:30:04 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-22 - Population dynamics of raccoons were studied from November 1977 to March 1980 at two study areas in northern California (Alameda and Contra Costa counties). A total of 102 raccoons were captured with hounds; of these, 40 were subsequently recaptured a total of 99 times. Two mark and recapture techniques were used to estimate raccoon density: The Jolly-Seber method, which assumes an open population; and the Schumacher-Eschmeyer method, which assumes a closed population. Using the Jolly-Seber estimates, 0.24 raccoons per square mile within the Sunol study area in Alameda County, and 0.7 per square mile within the Morgan study area in Contra Costa County were obtained. Average minimum home range size was 0.58 square mile for females and 1.99 square mile for males. Large home ranges were attributed to very low population densities. A sex ratio of 1.5 males per female was noted in the Sunol study area. Within the Morgan study area, a ratio of 0.8:1 was observed. Age structure of raccoons within both study areas indicates an expanding population.169333:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169333Tue, 28 May 2019 10:27:56 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-18 - A survey of the California Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) was conducted from December 1978 through July 1979 in the San Francisco, Monterey and Morro bay areas. Several areas of high abundance were censused as well as some localities in the periphery of the Clapper Rail’s range. Nonbreeding season densities of Clapper Rails in South San Francisco Bay appeared to be higher than those found in the early 1970’s. In Elkhorn Slough, Monterey County, a population of at least two pairs produced a minimum of two young. In Suisun Marsh, Solano County, an estimated population of 25 rails was present through the breeding season. No Clapper Rails were found at Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County.169332:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169332Tue, 28 May 2019 10:24:20 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-17 - The Department conducted studies of five species that are either state listed or are candidates for state listing as endangered or rare in California as follows: California Bighorn Sheep, White-eared Pocket Mouse, San Joaquin Antelope Squirrel, Giant Kangaroo Rat, and Elf Owl. A study plan was prepared and a contract was awarded for the development of a Mammal Species of Special Concern list to include available data on the distribution and status of each species on the list. The Department provided information to agencies and the general public on the status, distribution and habitat requirements of state listed species, reviewed and commented on projects affecting those species, collected and analyzed data on the status and distribution of candidate species, and enforced endangered species laws and regulations. A Brown-headed Cowbird trapping program, designed to reduce nest parasitism on the Least Bell's Vireo, was conducted at Morongo Valley, San Bernardino County. 169331:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169331Tue, 28 May 2019 10:22:05 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-15 - The status of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in California is summarized. Taxonomy, legal status, natural history, distribution and density and harvest are discussed. 169330:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169330Tue, 28 May 2019 10:19:54 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-14 - Harvested and unharvested bobcat populations were studied in chaparral habitat in San Diego County, California during fiscal year 1978-79. During the course of these studies, 59 animals were caught and radio-collared or marked. Densities of both harvested and unharvested populations were about 3.2 bobcats per square mile (1.25 per km2). Home range sizes were similar in both populations for both sexes. Sex ratios have varied from 2.0 males per female to 1.5 males per female in the unharvested population while in the harvested population the sex ratio varied from 0.94 to 1.24 males per female. Harvested populations were dominated by young adults with under-representation of the young-of-the-year age class. Natural mortality caused a change in the age structure of the unharvested bobcat population. Known litter size remains at 2 kittens and 67% of the females have produced young in the unharvested population. It appears that females in the harvested population produced from 1.02 to 1.18 young per female. Predation is the major cause of mortality in the unharvested population while 67% of fall and early winter mortality in the harvested population comes from trapping. In the harvested population 15% of the adult population is lost annually to trapping. This also amounts to 32 to 38% of the total adult mortality as shown by an analysis of the trapper take throughout San Diego County. Life table analysis indicates stability or a slight increase in the harvested population. 169329:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169329Tue, 28 May 2019 10:18:09 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-13 - During the 1978-79 trapping season, about 12,500 bobcats were taken. This included 6,500 taken by commercial trappers and 6,000 taken by hunters. The take was distributed in much the same pattern as it has been distributed over the past eight years. Bobcat export tags were required for the movement of bobcat furs out of state. Almost 8,000 were sold and the season, which was to extend until the last day of February, was effectively closed when the 6,000 allotted for sale were sold by the end of January. A sample of 833 bobcats taken during the 1978-79 season provided data on the age and sex structure of bobcat populations in 23 counties. Age structures with a high percentage of young-of-the-year, a low percentage of breeding-age females, and with few relatively old individuals and sex structures with nearly equal male to female ratios probably indicate heavily harvested populations of relatively low density. Bobcat populations with few young of the year, few females of breeding age, and many older aged individuals are relatively underharvested. Healthy harvested populations appear to have populations consisting of 15-30% young-of-the-year, 30-40% breeding age females, to have some older individuals, and to have the sex ratio fairly well male dominated. 169328:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169328Tue, 28 May 2019 10:15:50 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-12 - A sample of 1,083 gray foxes taken during the 1979-80 season provided data on the age and sex structure of gray fox populations in 33 counties. Data were analyzed on the basis of 16 geographical areas to provide adequate sample sizes for each area. Most populations showed sex ratios of about 1.5 males per female, the number of breeding-age females equal to about 25% of the population, young-of-the-year constituting about 45% of the population, and with about 10% of the population over 4 ½ years of age.169327:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169327Tue, 28 May 2019 10:13:38 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-05 - The status of the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) in California is summarized. Taxonomy, legal status, natural history, distribution and density and harvest are discussed. 169326:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169326Tue, 28 May 2019 10:11:04 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-04 - The status of the spotted skunk (Spilogale gracilis) in California is summarized. Taxonomy, legal status, natural history, distribution and density and harvest are discussed. 169325:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169325Tue, 28 May 2019 10:09:32 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-02 - A wintering ground study of the Aleutian Canada Goose (Branta canadensis leucopareia) in California was conducted from 1 October 1979 to 31 May 1980. The major use areas near Colusa, Modesto, Los Banos, and Crescent City were closely monitored. A spring estimate of 1450 was noted near Crescent City, the highest number ever recorded at that time. Sixteen cases of known Aleutian mortality and four of probable mortality were documented. Band observations totaled 3691 sightings of 153 individuals, including 28 guide birds and 4 Buldir Island goslings from the 1978 and 1979 Agattu Island releases. In addition, two guides and two goslings from the 1979 release were shot. No captive-raised Aleutians were observed in California, but two were sighted in the Marshall Islands. The current closure zones were effective in protecting the Aleutian Canada Goose. 169324:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169324Tue, 28 May 2019 10:07:54 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-14 - The Morro Bay kangaroo rat (Dipodomys heermanni morroensis) population is limited in range and shows a steadily declining population, prompting the California Department of Fish and Game to initiate a live-trapping study on the Morro Bay Ecological Reserve near Los Osos, California, from May through October,1978. The relative abundance of the kangaroo rats on the reserve is extremely low, implying the habitat is marginal. The sex ratio is aberrant, and juvenile animals were absent, suggesting a decline in reproductive success. Change in the habitat, from open areas with low-density vegetation, to areas with tall, high-density vegetation, appears to be an important factor in the decrease in the distribution and numbers of kangaroo rats. The change in habitat may also be affecting the species composition on the reserve, so that other species of rodents may be increasing in abundance and competing with kangaroo rats for important resources.169193:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169193Thu, 23 May 2019 09:08:05 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-10 - A total of 1,889 trapping licenses were sold in the 1977-78 fur trapping season. This is an increase of 12% from the 1,692 licenses sold in 1976-77 and an increase of 103% from the 931 sold in the 1975-76 season. Legislation enacted in 1974 requires every person who now takes furbearing or nongame mammals for profit to purchase a trapping license. The fees are $10 -adult, $5 - juvenile, and $25 - nonresident.169192:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169192Thu, 23 May 2019 09:04:40 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-07 - Agency activities involving major aspects of Bald Eagle research and management in California were coordinated through the Bald Eagle Working Team. Forty-two Bald Eagle nesting territories were known to be active in 1978. Fourteen of 40 active territories checked produced 18 fledglings. Production was the lowest recorded since surveys were initiated.169191:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169191Thu, 23 May 2019 09:02:05 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportCalifornia Department of Fish and Game - The Department of Fish and Game provided information on the bobcat (Felis rufus) in California including management and harvest reports and population assessment. This information was requested by the Endangered Species Scientific Authority (ESSA) for approval of the international export of bobcat from California during the 1979-80 season.169190:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169190Thu, 23 May 2019 08:59:22 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-02 - The first annual report of research activities and ongoing studies of the California Carnivore Study Group was compiled by the Department of Fish and Game. Study Group Members provided the source material. 169189:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169189Thu, 23 May 2019 08:56:02 -07001979-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-31 - Fifty acres of low-growing shrubs and open ground on sand dune substrate were acquired as essential habitat for the Morro Bay kangaroo rat (Dipodomys heermanni morroensis) in San Luis Obispo County south of Morro Bay. The parcel is bordered on the south and west sides by Montana de Oro State Park and on the north and east sides by private lands. The purchase was completed on July 12, 1978 after several years of negotiations. The purchase price was $250,000 and was provided by federal-state funds on a 2 to 1 match basis.169188:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169188Thu, 23 May 2019 08:53:14 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-15 - A three month effort to live trap muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) in typical Sacramento Valley agricultural habitat has led to the capture and marking of 57 individuals in three different agricultural canal types. During the spring the greatest muskrat densities were noted along a natural drain canal, followed by lower densities in a major man-made drain canal and a minor man-made drain canal. However, there is only a minor variation in density of adults in each study area. Additional data is being gathered on population fluctuations, home range size, litter size and mortality rates. 169073:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169073Tue, 21 May 2019 10:49:34 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 78-26 - A total of 1,692 trapping licenses were sold in the 1976-77 fur trapping season. This is an increase of 82% from the 931 licenses sold in 1975-76 and an increase of 44% from the 1,172 sold in the 1974-75 trapping season. Numbers of animals taken, range of prices paid, revenue received for the 1975-76 and 1976-77 trapping seasons are summarized by species. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and California county for the 1976-77 season are provided. 169071:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169071Tue, 21 May 2019 10:43:22 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-19 - The status of the bobcat in California is summarized and the Department’s 1977 report is updated. Taxonomy, legal status, natural history, distribution, density, and harvest are discussed. Numbers of bobcats taken by licensed fur trappers by California county during the 1975-76 and 1976-77 seasons are provided. A history of the take of bobcat in California and average price per pelt for the period 1930 through 1977 is presented. 169070:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169070Tue, 21 May 2019 10:40:28 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-17 - Habitat and wildlife data were collected at 56 coastal wetlands in the central California counties of Mendocino, San Mateo, Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo from January to June 1978. Information was gathered mainly to provide input into Local Coastal Programs of local governments, thereby assisting these agencies in protecting coastal wetland wildlife habitats. Information collected included data sheets, color-coded habitat maps and site description narratives for 36 of the sites.169069:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169069Tue, 21 May 2019 10:38:41 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-03 - A 3.4 percent random sample of the 572,000 licensed hunters in California were sent 1977 Hunter Survey Questionnaires. Fourteen thousand ninety-four usable questionnaires were returned; of these, 251 reported having hunted bobcat. As with the 1976 Hunter Survey Questionnaire, an attempt was made to contact, by telephone, those reporting having hunted bobcat to determine response bias. A total of 126 bobcat hunters were contacted. The total statewide hunter take of bobcat as estimated in the Hunter Survey Questionnaire was between 14,800 and 18,000, similar to the 13,800 to 16,800 as re-estimated by correcting for response bias. Due to considerable decrease in response error, it appears as if revisions in the 1977 Hunter Survey Questionnaire were successful in eliminating most earlier ambiguities.169068:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169068Tue, 21 May 2019 10:35:22 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 78-27 - Information on status and range, causes of decline, potential threats and management needs is presented for 61 bird species of special concern in California. Species included are those whose breeding populations in the State have declined severely or are otherwise so low that extirpation is a real possibility. Species already on federal or California endangered, rare or threatened species lists, and species that have nested only casually in California, are excluded from the list. Species are grouped in three categories to provide guidance in setting priorities for expenditure of nongame research funds, acquisition of habitat, and other management actions.169067:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=169067Tue, 21 May 2019 10:31:56 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-17 - Coyotes have long been one of the most controversial of all nongame animals. Until recently the attitude toward the coyote has been largely one of negative economic value which has dictated an operational policy of coyote control. Recent public recognition of the recreational and intrinsic values of predators makes it necessary to manage these animals on the same sound biological principles which have been applied to game species. The following is Part I of an Operational Management Plan for the Coyote. Status of the coyote, resource value, coyote damage, predator control, and scientific investigations are topics covered in this report. 168897:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168897Thu, 16 May 2019 10:31:53 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-06 - The historic and current distribution and abundance of the California clapper rail are discussed. Population and distributional data were derived from 120 censuses conducted over 5,000 ha of greater San Francisco Bay tidal marsh from February 1971 to December 1975. The present breeding range is restricted to San Francisco Bay and Elkhorn Slough, Monterey County. Humboldt, Morro and Tomales Bays apparently no longer support breeding clapper rails. Within San Francisco Bay, major populations exist in San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda and Marin counties and in the Napa Marsh. Breeding and non-breeding population densities did not differ significantly over the major population centers of the range. Population projections were based on the average mean breeding and non-breeding densities throughout the study area. The present clapper rail population was estimated at between 4,200 -5,900 birds. South San Francisco Bay and Napa Marsh supported 55 and 38 per cent, respectively, of the current population. 168881:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168881Thu, 16 May 2019 09:25:23 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-07 - Three hundred and eighty-five observations made since 1971 and representing 650 bobcats were recorded for the study area in Lassen, Modoc, Shasta and Siskiyou counties from 87 interviewees. Interviewees were associated with federal or state wildlife or land management agencies or were knowledgeable hunters or trappers. Bobcats were widespread in the study area. Almost 90% of observed bobcats were on land open to hunting and trapping. A decrease in the bobcat population since 1971 was reported by almost all interviewees. Major causes for the believed decline are increased fur prices leading to increased effort and take by trappers and hunters and possibly a decrease in food supply. Recommendations are made to substantiate the population status not only in the study area, but statewide. 168880:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168880Thu, 16 May 2019 09:22:38 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-09 - A 3.1% sample of an estimated 580,080 hunters purchasing licenses during 1976 were surveyed to estimate game take. Two hundred and sixty-five of the14,305 respondents to the survey hunted bobcats. To reduce response bias in data on bobcat take, 123 of the 265 respondents were contacted by telephone. This follow-up contact resulted in a reduction of 18% in the indicated number of hunters who actually hunted bobcat and of 34%, to 1.19, in the bobcat take per hunter per season from that stated by Rahn (1977). Total statewide take of bobcat was reestimated at the 80% confidence level between 8,500 and 12,800 individuals using a normal distribution, and between 9,600 and 11,400 using a Poisson distribution. Data fit the Poisson distribution better than a normal distribution, and more precise estimates were obtained. 168879:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168879Thu, 16 May 2019 09:20:31 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-11 - A study of the Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis) was undertaken from April 17 to 23, 1977, in the Shoshone-Tecopa area, Inyo County. In 382 trap nights, five voles were caught, all in the Tecopa-Tecopa Hot Springs area. These animals were mainly live-trapped in tule (Scirpus olneyi) marshes formed by water from springs. Due to the character of the habitat, the voles did not form runway systems which could be used to determine population density. Further field work will be carried out in October 1977. 168877:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168877Thu, 16 May 2019 09:17:11 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-14 - Surveys were conducted at Anaheim Bay from May 1 to August 31, 1977, to identify nesting habitat requirements of light-footed clapper rails (Rallus longirostris levipes) in this marsh. Efforts were made to determine limiting environmental factors influencing nesting here and to identify actions needed to restore this breeding population to optimum size. Comparative studies were conducted at Upper Newport Bay. High tide counts in June yielded sightings of eight clapper rails at Anaheim Bay and 22 at Upper Newport Bay. No nests were found at Anaheim Bay, but 57 nests, including 12 active ones, were found at Upper Newport Bay. Tall cordgrass (Spartina foliosa) was preferred nesting habitat at Upper Newport Bay. This habitat was lacking at Anaheim Bay; this may limit nesting opportunity or success. In portions of Upper Newport Bay lacking tall cordgrass, clapper rails nested successfully in wind transported Russian thistles (Salsola kali) lying in the marsh. These bushes may function, presumably as does tall cordgrass, to secure nests during high spring tides. Findings at Upper Newport Bay provide the basis for management and study recommendations at Anaheim Bay. 168876:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168876Thu, 16 May 2019 09:15:06 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-19 - The status of the bobcat in California is summarized. Taxonomy, legal status, natural history, distribution and density, and harvest are discussed. Numbers of bobcats taken by licensed fur trappers by California county during the 1975-76 season are provided. A history of the take of bobcat in California and average price per pelt for the period 1930 through 1976 is presented. 168874:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168874Thu, 16 May 2019 09:09:55 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-20 - In January and May 1977, fifteen routes totaling 1,025 miles were surveyed resulting in 1,417 raptor sightings of 14 species. This represents an average of 141 raptors per 100 miles. This is the highest average since the survey began in 1971.168873:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168873Thu, 16 May 2019 09:08:14 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-26 - A total of 931 trapping licenses were sold in the 1975-76 fur trapping season. This is a decrease of 21% from the 1,172 licenses sold in 1974-75 and an increase of 6% from the 878 sold in the 1973-74 trapping season. Numbers of furbearers taken, range of prices paid, revenue received for the 1974-75 and 1975-76 trapping seasons are summarized by species. Number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers by species and California county for the 1975-76 season are provided. 168871:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168871Thu, 16 May 2019 09:03:31 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-16 - In 1972, the Department of Fish and Game and the University of California, Berkeley initiated the California Furbearer Survey. The long-range goals of this project were to update Grinnell’s work of 1927 and provide management plans for California’s furbearer populations. Trappers were interviewed in their homes. Standardized reporting forms were used to compile information; information on the status of all furbearers was recorded when volunteered. The information presented in this report is the summary of the trapper interviews. 168626:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168626Thu, 09 May 2019 10:27:37 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportCalifornia Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Management Branch - The author delivered remarks regarding the state of raptor management in California before a Wildlife Society section meeting with the theme of “Wildlife and Society-Conflict in the 70's." California’s raptor management efforts centered on conservation of endangered and threatened species, a survey and inventory program of more common species, rehabilitation of raptors that come into the possession of the Department of Fish and Game via various means, falconry, and education. 168625:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168625Thu, 09 May 2019 10:24:57 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 76-01 - A general land use and wildlife survey was initiated in July 1974 in that portion of Upper Butte Basin which may be influenced by future flood control projects. Evaluation of land use trends revealed a replacement of riparian habitats with deciduous orchards and other agricultural crops. Existing riparian habitats were identified and mapped to determine their location and relative abundance. Riparian lands, in general, support large populations and a great diversity of bird species. Two heronries were situated within the study area in riparian habitats. Dwindling wild habitats were reflected in diminishing pheasant brood counts since 1956. Mammal and bird checklists were prepared and species density determined for various habitats in the study area. Critical wildlife habitat areas were identified and recommendations were made for their preservation.168624:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168624Thu, 09 May 2019 10:14:47 -07001976-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 76-04 - In January and May 1976, twenty-two routes, totaling 1,810 miles, were surveyed resulting in 2,608 raptor sightings of 17 species. This represents an average of 144 raptors per 100 miles which is an increase of 20 percent over the previous high of 120 raptors per 100 miles recorded in 1975. Fifteen sample routes were compared for the years 1971 through 1976. Surveys of these routes in January and May each year accounted for 108, 95, 124, 118, and 133 raptors per 100 miles in 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, and 1976, respectively. 168622:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168622Thu, 09 May 2019 10:12:02 -07001976-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 76-03 - A survey of bobcat (Lynx rufus) distribution and abundance in Fresno County, California was conducted in 1975. Objectives of the study were to determine distribution and abundance of the species in Fresno County, understand factors affecting the population, and develop methods to conduct a statewide inventory. Licensed trappers, county trappers, governmental personnel and local residents were contacted, yielding 135 bobcat sightings. Bobcat were found to be most abundant at elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 feet. The Scent Station census method used in the Jose Basin Study Area in western Fresno County revealed a relatively moderate to high density of bobcats and coyotes. 168621:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168621Thu, 09 May 2019 10:09:23 -07001976-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-02 - The California Department of Food and Agriculture developed an experimental program to measure the usefulness of sodium cyanide in a spring-loaded ejector mechanism (SCSLEM) as a method of reducing livestock losses due to predation by coyotes. In cooperation, the California Department of Fish and Game conducted three coyote scent-post activity censuses in each of the four study areas in Tehama County. Surveys will provide information on coyote and nontarget wildlife abundance trends during the nine-month experimental program. The first of three scent-post surveys was made in September 1974. At that time, breeding ewes were not present on the study areas. The second scent-post survey was made during the last week of February and the first week of March 1975. Lambing had occurred and the sheep population was at a high level on all study areas. 168620:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168620Thu, 09 May 2019 10:06:04 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 75-01 - The California Department of Food and Agriculture developed an experimental program to measure the usefulness of sodium cyanide in a spring-loaded ejector mechanism (SCSLEM) as a method of reducing livestock losses due to predation by coyotes. The program was designed to gather specific information required by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency to support registration of sodium cyanide as a predacide. The data showed that the most selective method of coyote control was achieved by aerial and ground gunning. Known animal take by SCSLEMs indicated that they were more selective for the target species (coyotes) than were steel traps as used in this study.168619:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168619Thu, 09 May 2019 10:03:36 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 74-08 - A shorebird research program was conducted in California from 1968 through 1973. Shorebirds were trapped and banded at selected sites; 10,207 birds were banded and color-marked. From one to four years of census data were collected at 57 sites by more than 200 observers, most of them volunteers. 168543:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168543Tue, 07 May 2019 10:03:25 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-24 - A cormorant nesting study was conducted at Pont Lobos State Reserve, Monterey County, California. The peak population of cormorants during the 1972 nesting season was as follows: 1,734 Brandt’s cormorants and 36 pelagic cormorants. Brandt’s cormorants produced 414 young; pelagic cormorants produced nine young. Of the 12 colonies observed, one failed to produce young. Observations were limited to 5 days between April 25 and July 14, 1972.168538:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168538Tue, 07 May 2019 09:55:02 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-10 - Fifty-two species of shorebirds occur regularly in the United States. Although classified as game birds, hunting seasons have been closed for many decades on all shorebirds except the common [Wilson’s] snipe and American woodcock. To gather information on the current status and resource needs of nonhunted shorebirds nationwide, the Shorebird Species Committee mailed shorebird questionnaires to all 50 state wildlife agencies. This report summarizes questionnaire responses. 168541:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168541Tue, 07 May 2019 09:48:26 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-12 - Aerial surveys were made in 1972 and 1974 of cormorant nesting on California’s Channel Islands. The 1974 survey located 13 rookeries on seven of the eight islands. The Channel Island cormorant nesting population appears to number 4,000-5,000 birds with Castle Rock and Prince Island off San Miguel Island constituting the most important rookeries.168540:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168540Tue, 07 May 2019 09:46:32 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-14 - Fifty-five raptor survey routes were run between 1971-73. A total of 23,241 miles was covered and 25,364 diurnal birds of prey were reported. In an evaluation of the data for 40 routes, 118.5 raptors were reported for each 100 miles of travel statewide. Abundance and distribution of raptors was determined for geographical areas. Thirty-five newly discovered eyries were reported and entered in the California Department of Fish and Game's eyrie inventory file, increasing the statewide file to 528 eyries. Recommendations were made to modify the annual survey program and continue the eyrie checks to obtain current data on nesting success of selected raptor species.168539:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168539Tue, 07 May 2019 09:44:31 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-25 - A Great Blue Heron rookery at Lincoln, Placer County, California was studied over a two-year period. The objectives of the study were to document the following: behavior, clutch counts, hatching peak, nesting success, nesting mortality and eggshell measurements. The study period was March 1 to July l6, 1970 and January 16 to June 16, 1971. The rookery held 68 active nests in 1970 and 6l in 1971. Of the active nests, 22 were selected for intensive study in 1970 and 23 in 1971. No unusual behavior patterns were noted. Clutch counts were not complete, but most nests counted during one helicopter flight showed a clutch of four eggs. Hatching peak occurred the second or third week of March. Fledging success was 2.63 young per active nest in 1970 and 2.26 in 1971. Rookery production was estimated at 187 young in 1970 and 138 young in 1971. Known mortality of nestlings was approximately 3 percent in 1970 and 8 percent in 1971. High winds were major cause of juvenile loss. No known mammalian or avian predation occurred. Average measurement of hatched eggshells collected beneath the rookery was .354 mm.168537:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168537Tue, 07 May 2019 09:38:15 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-09 - A statewide shorebird survey program was developed by California Department of Fish and Game in July 1968. Surveys at selected sites began in 1969. The survey program was continued during Fiscal Year 1971-72. At 42 census sites, 750 shorebird counts were conducted. Revised shorebird census instruction sheets and reporting forms were distributed to observers in December 1971. Computer processing of there years of survey data was completed in June 1972.168536:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168536Tue, 07 May 2019 09:34:52 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportCalifornia Department of Fish and Game News Release 72-01 - California’s only nesting colony of brown pelicans produced 57 young this year, a substantial increase from the seven young produced last year and one the year before. The Department of Fish and Game released this report after surveillance of potential nesting areas on the Channel Islands off the southern California coast August 15, 1972. The pelican colony nested on West Anacapa Island and on a small island off Santa Cruz Island, six miles west of Anacapa. Observers counted 150 nests and 26 young on West Anacapa and 112 nests and 31 young on the small island near Santa Cruz Island.168414:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168414Thu, 02 May 2019 10:59:31 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-07 - A shorebird study was conducted in south San Diego Bay and vicinity from September 1969 through September 1970. The study included shorebird banding and color marking, periodic censusing, and publicity efforts. Seventeen hundred and forty-one shorebirds of l4 species, mostly western sandpipers, were banded and color marked. Observations and recaptures of color marked birds suggest that western sandpipers return to the same migration stopping places or wintering grounds of south San Diego Bay each year. Monthly censuses of the entire south San Diego Bay provided an accurate account of shorebird population fluctuations. Greatest numbers of shorebirds were observed in early and mid-April, when up to 13,700 shorebirds, mostly western sandpipers, were counted. More frequent censuses of two selected salt pond resting and feeding areas yielded misleading results. Banding and color marking demonstrations were publicized locally by television, newspaper, and library exhibit.168412:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168412Thu, 02 May 2019 10:31:05 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-06 - During the 1971 breeding season, 184 pairs of common [great] egrets, 55 pairs of great blue herons, and 62 pairs of black-crowned night-herons nested in the cypress and eucalyptus grove on Indian (Gunther) Island, Humboldt County, California. Of these nests, 155 common [great] egrets, 46 great blue herons, and 50 black-crowned night-herons successfully fledged 308, 92, and 66 young, respectively. Hatching extended for all species from April 9 through July 28. Average clutch size for 10 common [great] egret nests was 3.1 eggs per nest, with some incomplete clutches included. A production of 1.98, 2.00, and 1.32 young per successful nest was determined for the common [great] egret, great blue heron, and black-crowned night-heron, respectively. Nestling mortality for both the common [great] egret and great blue heron was the result of high winds, accidents, starvation, nest abandonment, and possibly parasites and disease. 168410:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168410Thu, 02 May 2019 10:29:08 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-22 - Since the intensive trapping program (1966-1970) maintained in San Diego County for the removal of rabies vector species, information has been desired by wildlife agencies to assess vector species population-levels for future assistance in predator management programs. The objectives for the development of a coyote population dynamics model are discussed and include the following: A census method, population structure determination and an estimation of movement and activity parameters. Four telemetry systems were evaluated for their use in wildlife studies with special reference to coyote investigations.168408:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168408Thu, 02 May 2019 09:28:53 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-20 - A survey was conducted in the summer of 1971 to determine the current status of the endangered salt-marsh harvest mouse. Twenty-six trap lines, placed in 15 localities around San Francisco Bay, yielded 110 salt-marsh harvest mice. All mice were marked and released. Data obtained indicated highest populations to be along the northeast shores of San Pablo and Suisun Bays. Critically low numbers were recorded in the South Bay regions, presumably due to higher tidal range and habitat destruction.168407:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168407Thu, 02 May 2019 09:26:22 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-21 - Preliminary investigations on Camp Elliott, San Diego County, have shown the coyote population to be essentially the same as found during the removal trapping program conducted by the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife (1969-1970). Manipulation of the coyote density model, based upon 26 coyotes captured, indicated that coyote density on this study area could lie between 0.75 and 2.2 coyotes per square mile, depending upon verification of assumed coyote home ranges. Results of the investigation to develop field techniques for the live, unharmed capture of coyotes indicated reduced foot damage with traps padded with rubber weather stripping.168406:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168406Thu, 02 May 2019 09:24:30 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-19 - From July 1970 through June 1971, monthly censuses of waterbirds were conducted at Lake Earl and Lake Talawa in Del Norte County. The purpose of the survey was to record the seasonal abundance of water-associated birds that use the lakes. Counts were made of 59 species of water-associated birds and ten species of raptors. Birds were most abundant on the October census, when nearly 11,000 birds, mostly waterfowl, were counted.168405:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168405Thu, 02 May 2019 09:22:04 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 71-13 - Experimental baiting was conducted May 1967 to October 1969 to determine the feasibility of using such a survey method as an alternate to the annual condor survey held in October and to acquire data pertinent to the management of the California condor. Seventeen separate attempts to attract and concentrate condors were conducted in five counties and included fifty-one days of observation. Numbers of condors reported varied from 0 to 32 individuals. Baiting failed to attract condors on a reliable basis. The availability of other food sources greatly influenced the effectiveness of a baiting program even in areas of known condor concentrations. Prolonged baiting will be required to condition birds to feed at bait stations regularly. Based on baiting experiments, an experimental feeding program was initiated February 5, 1971 to evaluate its effectiveness to increase condor reproduction and fledgling success in the Sespe Condor Sanctuary, Ventura County.168404:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168404Thu, 02 May 2019 09:19:07 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-11 - The island fox (Urocyon littoralis) inhabits California’s Channel Islands, specifically San Clemente, Santa Catalina, San Nicolas, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Islands. The smaller islands of Anacapa and Santa Barbara contain no foxes and there are no records of their existing there in the past. The island fox appears to be closely related to the gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), which ranges over most of North America. Little information exists for the island fox other than taxonomic descriptions. This report summarizes the available literature for the island fox including systematics, habitat, life history, food habits and abundance.168297:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168297Tue, 30 Apr 2019 11:11:49 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-10 - Between July 1970 and June 1971, 1,579 shorebirds of 16 species were banded and color-marked as part of the California Shorebird Study. Trapping methods included mist netting, rocket netting, and night-lighting. Most birds were trapped in mist nets selective for the smaller shorebird species. As a result, about 70 percent of shorebirds caught were western sandpipers. 168296:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168296Tue, 30 Apr 2019 11:10:22 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-05 - Approximately 100 pairs of peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) were reproducing successfully in California in 1946. A decline began in the early 1950's and intensified later in that decade. By 1969 fewer than 10 nesting sites were estimated to be active in California. An assessment of the actual breeding status of the peregrine in California was clearly needed. Due to financial constraints, plans for an extensive census were modified to allow sampling of ecologically and geographically relevant nesting sites of known historical record. This paper is the second of a series of papers which will seek to analyze in detail the decline of this species in California. 168282:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168282Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:41:59 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-09 - A shorebird research program initiated in August 1968 by the California Department of Fish and Game was continued in 1969-70 at Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, Humboldt Bay, Humboldt County, Woodland Sugar Ponds, Yolo County, and south San Diego Bay, San Diego County. The objectives were to provide current information on shorebird movements, populations, and habitat requirements. Statewide banding effort in 1969-70 resulted in the banding and color marking of 6,422 shorebirds. Censuses and banding operations at Woodland Sugar Ponds began in September 1969. Seven hundred and ninety shorebirds were banded and color marked. This area is an important migratory resting and feeding area. Shorebird banding continued at Humboldt Bay and trapping methods were compared. The banding total for 1969-70 was 2,364 shorebirds. In south San Diego Bay and vicinity, 1,741 shorebirds were banded and color marked. Recaptures and sightings of color-marked birds indicate that this is an important area for migrating and wintering western sandpipers. Shorebird research continued at Point Reyes National Seashore; monthly aerial censuses of five major bays and estuaries were continued during 1969-70. Although aerial counts consistently underestimated numbers, this method is a valuable means to monitor shorebird populations in this area. Shorebird banding was concentrated at Bolinas Lagoon. Banded and color marked shorebirds totaled 1,927 individuals. 168281:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168281Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:32:02 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-04 - During the 1971 reproductive season, 134 prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus) locations were visited. At 77 locations, we were able to evaluate utilization and at 57 sites we were unable to assess activity. Fifty-eight of the 77 sites supported at least one adult falcon and 19 locations were totally inactive. At 29 locations where nesting attempts were initiated, 21 sites produced 6l young plus 8 eggs from which we were unable to obtain fledgling data. Statewide, we observed 75.3 percent reproductive activity. However, only 36 percent of the active sites were successful, and a resulting 2.29 young per nest were observed. We concluded productivity was below normal for the California population; this judgement was based on the low number of initial nesting attempts and the low number of young per active site. A second year of field observation will be needed to evaluate these trends. 168280:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168280Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:27:15 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportCalifornia Department of Fish and Game News Release 71-01 - California’s only nesting colony of brown pelicans, located on Anacapa Island, produced seven young in 1971 from a total of 600 nesting attempts. In 1970, one young was produced from 552 nesting attempts. The Department of Fish and Game commented that there was conclusive evidence that pelicans were laying thin-shelled eggs incapable of being incubated. Reproductive failure was attributed to DDT and its metabolites.168279:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168279Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:24:10 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-21 - Shorebirds, herons and egrets were censused in Marin County, California by Point Reyes Bird Observatory, under contract with the California Department of Fish and Game. Research was conducted during 1969-1970. Aerial and ground census methods were compared and shorebird banding and marking methods were evaluated. Shorebird ecology at Limantour Estuary was studied. 168278:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168278Tue, 30 Apr 2019 10:22:08 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-19 - This report summarizes the results of the 1970 spring survey of bird use of the coastal rocks of northern California. Seabird rookeries on Sugarloaf Rock, Flat-iron Rock, and Green Rock, Humboldt County and Castle Island and Prince Island, Del Norte County were selected for study. Objectives were as follows: Study the ecology of five off-shore rocks with major seabird rookeries; determine the seasonal abundance and occurrence of seabirds using off-shore rocks; develop and test methods of determining seabird populations with a reporting system for the status of breeding grounds.168162:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168162Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:05:53 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-17 - The San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica) is classified by the California Fish and Game Commission as a protected furbearing mammal. The Secretary of the Interior has deemed it an endangered species. To learn more about the habits and behavior of this endangered species, a life history study of a colony of San Joaquin kit foxes was initiated by the Department of Fish and Game in April 1970. Primary objectives were to gather information on reproduction, survival, movements and activity, food habits and habitat requirements.168161:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168161Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:04:02 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-10 - A standard survey method and a report form were developed for department of Fish and Game regional and staff personnel to conduct a statewide inventory of California's coastal wetlands. From this and previous data provided by Regions 1, 3 and 5, a California Coastal Wetland Inventory was compiled. California's coastal wetlands total 421,812 acres of which 410,889 acres are estuaries, 6,543 acres are lagoons, and 4,380 acres are freshwater ponds. The acreage of open water, mudflat, and marsh was also identified. Studies to evaluate the importance of these habitat types to wildlife are underway.168160:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168160Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:02:03 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportWIldlife Management Administrative Report 70-09 - Current range of the San Joaquin kit fox has been delimited. It extends from the Tehachapi Mountain foothills surrounding the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley north along the foothills of the western San Joaquin Valley, almost to Los Banos, and on the eastern edge of the valley north to about 20 miles south of Porterville. The only extensive occurrence on the valley floor proper is in the southwestern portion wherever native vegetation remains. This kit fox is also on the Carrizo Plain. The range contains approximately 3,000 square miles of appropriate habitat. Population density estimates vary from one fox per one square mile to one fox per 2.8 square miles. The population numbers between 1,000 and 3,000 foxes. The major influence upon this kit fox's population decline has been the conversion of native habitat to agricultural and industrial development. Within the past 10 years there has been a 34% reduction in the amount of native habitat and it is assumed that this has resulted in a somewhat comparable reduction in the kit fox population.168159:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168159Thu, 25 Apr 2019 10:00:10 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-08 - The Department of Fish and Game conducted a study of mudflat habitat in Humboldt Bay, California. Patterns of habitat use and feeding ecology of the following shorebird species were included in the study: Least Sandpiper, Western Sandpiper, Dunlin, Dowitcher spp., Marbled Godwit, Black-bellied Plover, and Willet. Also, identification of invertebrate species available as potential food items, their abundance, and factors influencing their distribution was assessed. This is a preliminary progress report summarizing the work done from July 1 to September 30, 1970.168158:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168158Thu, 25 Apr 2019 09:58:15 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportInland Fisheries Endangered Species Program Special Publ 78-2 - Field studies of SFGS - locate populations, assess status, make recommendations168135:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168135Wed, 24 Apr 2019 15:47:27 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-04 - This report details a four-month ecological study of Big, Stone, and Freshwater Lagoons in Humboldt County and Lake Earl and Lake Talawa in Del Norte County. Purposes of the study were to (l) identify the wetland habitat characteristics of these coastal lagoon and lakes, (2) determine bird use of these wetlands and, (3) determine land use and ownership. Through use of U.S.G.S. 7 1/2-minute quadrangles and line transects, the principal habitat areas were delineated and vegetation classified. Land ownership was determined from county land ownership maps. Bird census sites were established at Big, Stone, and Freshwater Lagoons and bimonthly bird counts were made. Censuses at Lake Earl and Lake Talawa were accomplished from canoe. 168005:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=168005Tue, 23 Apr 2019 10:38:32 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-01 - Ospreys were studied in Lassen and Plumas counties, California, from April through September 1970. Objectives of the study were to estimate the breeding population, determine reproductive success, observe osprey behavior, and gather biological data to interpret observations. The study was limited to Lassen and Plumas counties, California; locations were recorded at Eagle Lake, Lake Almanor, Caribou Lake, Clear Creek, North Fork of the Feather River, and at Butt Valley, Mountain Meadows, and McCoy Flat Reservoirs. 167997:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167997Tue, 23 Apr 2019 10:17:18 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-08 - In July 1965, the Point Reyes Bird Observatory, under contract to the National Park Service, began a study of the birds of Limantour Estero in Drake's Bay, Marin County. Since April 1968, the study has received additional support from the California Department of Fish and Game. The purpose of the study was to assess the importance of the area to birds in the light of a proposal under which a substantial part of the estero would be impounded by a spill dam and developed for boating and swimming. The study was based on a regular detailed ground census. The estero and adjoining freshwater ponds were divided into twelve areas according to location, substrate type and vegetation, and the number of each species was recorded systematically for every area. Thus, data were collected on different types of habitat and their interrelation at various seasons of the year and at different stages of the tide. Analysis of these data will provide a basis for recommendations to agencies concerned with management and conservation of wetland habitat.167981:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167981Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:24:04 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-06 - There is a need to obtain an estimate of the number of shorebirds that winter in California and migrate through the coastal and inland areas of the state. Therefore, regular censuses in areas used by large numbers of birds should be established. The Point Reyes Peninsula, together with Bodega Bay immediately to the north and Bolinas Lagoon to the south, is a vital area for many shorebird species breeding in Alaska and wintering down the coast of Central and South America. This study focused upon testing shorebird census techniques in the air and on the ground, analysis of different types of habitat, and banding and color-marking birds to further the knowledge and understanding of their movements. In addition, a shorebird literature search was made. 167980:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167980Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:21:26 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-05 - The purpose of this study is to provide current information on seabird populations which breed on the California coast. The common murre die-offs in 1968 and the decline of the murre population on the Farallon Islands underscores the urgent need for an inventory of California's breeding colonies of offshore birds. The study area includes all offshore areas with potential seabird breeding from the Oregon to the Mexican border. Point Bonita, San Francisco County, north to the Oregon border was selected for this study. All rocks, islands and headlands, except those occurring in bays and estuaries were examined. These areas are classified according to accessibility from shore, vegetation and habitat preference of the principal species of birds frequenting these areas. This study began on July 1, 1969, and field work was conducted on a part-time basis until August 27. Because of the delay in initiating the inventory, several species had already fledged and were absent from the area.167979:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167979Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:19:07 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-04 - This progress report summarizes impacts to wildlife as a result of the Santa Barbara Channel Oil Spill from the period April 1 to May 31, 1969. The first report covered the period from when the Union Oil Company oil-well first erupted on January 28 to March 31, 1969. Aerial surveys and beach transects established during the initial weeks of oil spillage were conducted from April 1 to May 31, 1969. During this period 178 man-hours were expended. Significant bird population movements occurred during this period. Several species wintering in the channel area migrated by the end of May to their breeding grounds further north. A large influx of pelagic birds, notably sooty and pink-footed shearwaters, was noted offshore. Birds counted on aerial surveys averaged 5,242 per day which compares with 3,490 for the first report period. Estimated bird population in the channel area sampled was 85,000 for this period as compared to 12,000 during the first period. Average number of birds per count found utilizing the 4.8 miles of oil contaminated beach transects was 391 as compared to 290 birds during the first report period. Nine oil-contaminated birds were turned into the bird treatment station during this period. Birds treated to date number 1,575. Of these, 1,406 or 89.3 percent died and 169 or 10.7 percent survived and are still being held or were released. Miscellaneous dead birds found at various locations died at treatment stations and those reported too late to be included in the first progress report totaled 86. Losses of birds attributed to the Santa Barbara Channel oil spill is now 3,686. No dead mammals were observed on the aerial surveys or beach transects during this reporting period. A report received of loss of marine mammals on San Miguel Island was investigated by the Department’s Marine Resources Operations at Terminal Island and the Department of the Interior. A Federal report issued June 29 stated that there was no evidence that deaths of seals or sea lions on the island could be attributed to oil pollution. 167977:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167977Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:16:51 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-02 - Animal damage control agencies were contacted to determine existing animal control policies and predator harvest. Coyote and bobcat were selected for special study as there is immediate need to develop a management plan for these species. One of the first tasks is to determine the annual harvest of these nonprotected mammals. For the first time the Department's Hunter Game Take Questionnaire was used to derive an estimate of hunter kill of coyotes and bobcats. In the fiscal year 1967-68, the Department of Fish and Game took three coyotes on wildlife management area for protection of nesting waterfowl and upland game. The Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, Division of Wildlife Services, took 10,316 coyotes and 2,094 bobcats in 1967-68 under contracts and/or agreements with private landowners and public land agencies for the protection of agricultural crops, poultry and livestock from depredation. Mendocino County animal control trappers in 1967-68 reported taking 287 coyotes and 124 bobcats. Commercial fur trappers for 1967-68 reported taking 169 coyotes and 276 bobcats. The harvest of coyotes and bobcats in 1968 by sportsmen as determined from the annual hunter game take questionnaire was 84,900 coyotes and 45,900 bobcats. The total take of coyotes and bobcats in fiscal year 1967-68 is estimated at 95,700 and 48,400 animals, respectively. 167976:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167976Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:13:23 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 69-01 - Little is known about the shorebirds in Humboldt Bay, other than personnel notes or limited information found in journals or manuals. In May 1968, the author initiated a shorebird study on Humboldt Bay as part of the Master's degree program at Humboldt State College. This report summarizes the data collected. The main purpose of the study was to determine which species of shorebirds used Humboldt Bay, approximate population size, and dates of peak abundance. Several habitat types were studied. A banding and marking program was initiated to provide information on shorebird habitat use, wintering status, and migrational routes.167975:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=167975Tue, 23 Apr 2019 09:10:21 -07001969-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-17 - Legislation enacted in 1974 requires every person who takes furbearing or nongame mammals for profit to purchase a trapping license. A total of 1,347 trapping licenses were sold during the 1986-87 trapping season, a decrease of 5% from the 1,417 licenses sold for the 1985-86 season. This was the fourth successive year in which license sales were below 1,800. This level of license sales is well above the 450 to 1,000 licenses sold annually during the period from 1950 to 1976 but below the 3,000 plus licenses sold annually right before license fees were raised and trappers had to pass a proficiency examination. Current fur prices are not likely to encourage license sales to reach 3,000 in the near future. The number of animals reported taken by licensed fur trappers are reported by species and by county during the 1986-87 trapping season. Bobcat continued to be the most economically important animal providing fur amounting to 73% of the total value of California’s furs. Once again, more muskrats were taken than any other species, representing 49% of the total harvest. 166579:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166579Thu, 11 Apr 2019 10:36:53 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-08 - Eighty breeding sites for 11 species of inland nesting waterbirds are documented. Salton Sea, Eagle Lake, Honey Lake, San Francisco Bay, and the Lower Klamath-Tule Lake-Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge area are very important to these inland nesting waterbirds. No breeding sites are recorded for the Common Loon, Least Bittern, and Harlequin Duck.166566:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166566Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:24:29 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-13 - Fifty-four breeding sites for nine species of inland nesting waterbirds which also are species of special concern are documented. Salton Sea, San Diego Bay, San Francisco Bay, and the Lower Klamath-Tule Lake-Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge area are very important to these inland nesting waterbirds. No breeding sites are recorded for the Common Loon, Least Bittern, and Harlequin Duck. 166565:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166565Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:22:59 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-13 - During 1984, a total of 74 breeding pairs of Greater Sandhill Cranes was located at five major nesting areas in Modoc and Lassen counties. An additional 27 pairs were found at seven other sites in Lassen and Modoc counties. Seven sites were surveyed that produced no nesting cranes. Twenty-five young were observed at all sites checked. A combined age-ratio of 11.0% (25 young per 227 cranes, breeders + young) was obtained. Non-breeders numbered at least 69 birds. Efforts were made by staff at Modoc National Wildlife Refuge to capture and color-mark a sample of Greater Sandhill Cranes.166564:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166564Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:20:38 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-09 - During the report period, a total of 343 adult Greater Sandhill Cranes and 18 chicks was located at six key breeding areas in northeastern California. The six areas were located in Modoc County (Surprise Valley, Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, Goose Lake Area, Jess Valley Area, Likely Area, Big Valley Area, in part) and Lassen County (Big Valley Area, in part). The six areas were deemed vital to the crane breeding population in California and have been surveyed previously during 1971, 1981, and 1982. A total of 254 adults (127 pairs) apparently made up the breeding population in the areas surveyed. The remaining 79 birds either had not attempted breeding or attempted breeding and failed. Of the 18 chicks located, 17 were found in the Surprise Valley, Modoc County. Assessment of habitat quality and land-use changes that could adversely affect crane breeding habitats were made. Conversion of native meadow habitats to alfalfa fields and summer grazing by livestock were viewed as those land-use changes most detrimental to Sandhill Cranes and their habitats in northeastern California. Native meadows and wetlands of the Surprise Valley, Modoc County, particularly in the area east of Eagleville, continued to support the densest concentration of breeding Sandhill Cranes in California. Surprise Valley, Big Valley in Lassen and Modoc counties, and the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge continued to support more than 50% of all cranes breeding in the state. To determine the possible extent of mercury contamination, efforts were made to locate nesting colonies of Western Grebes at Clear Lake, Lake County, and to identify the extent of winter use by Western Grebes at Lake Berryessa, Napa County. 166563:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166563Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:18:27 -07001983-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-25 - During the report period, a total of 83 pairs of nesting Greater Sandhill Cranes were located at five key breeding areas in northeastern California. The five areas were among eleven deemed vital to the breeding population in California and have been surveyed previously during 1971 and 1981. Assessments were made of habitat quality and land-use changes that could adversely affect crane breeding habitats were noted. Conversion of native meadow habitats to alfalfa fields and summer grazing by livestock were viewed as those land-use changes most detrimental to Sandhill Cranes and their habitats in northeastern California. Native meadows and wetlands of the Surprise Valley, Modoc County, particularly in the area east of Eagleville, continue to support the densest concentration of breeding Sandhill Cranes in California. The Big Valley area in Lassen and Modoc counties and the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge also support significant populations of cranes. The three areas hold greater than 50% of all cranes breeding in the state; this pattern was evident during 1971, 1981 and 1982. 166562:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166562Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:16:18 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-23 - This study was undertaken to determine the reproductive success of a colony of Great Blue Herons at a study site located along the south bank of Coon Creek on the Chamberlain Ranch, Placer County, California. This, the first phase of the study, was limited to (l) determination of reproductive success, (2) study of courtship and nesting behavior at the rookery, and (3) behavior in the presence of large avian predators and humans. Egg shells were collected to determine the peak hatching period and measured to determine shell thickness. Dropped food items and one young heron were analyzed for pesticide residue. 166561:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166561Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:13:38 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-04 - The California Department of Fish and Game conducted its fifth heron rookery survey during the 1978 breeding season. Although data from comparable rookeries indicate a decrease from 1972 to 1978 in populations of Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Snowy Egret and Black-crowned Night-Heron, the numbers of reported rookeries and active nests have increased from 115 active rookeries with 5,398 active nests in 1972 to 150 active rookeries with 16,173 active nests in 1978.Only the Black-crowned Night-Heron has shown a decrease in the number of active nests. Cattle egrets have dramatically increased their breeding numbers and distribution; they are now found as far north as Indian Island in Humboldt Bay, Humboldt County, California. Human disturbances caused abandonment of seven rookeries during the 1972-78 period.166560:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166560Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:09:52 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-15 - The third Heron Rookery Survey was conducted in 1971 by the Department of Fish and Game. The statewide inventory of 109 active rookeries revealed 3,805 active nests. This compares with 83 rookeries with 4,400 active nests in 1970 and 60 rookeries with 3,187 active nests in 1969. Comparable rookery data for 1969-1971 indicates that a decrease of Great Blue Heron and Common [Great] Egret nesting may have occurred during this three-year period. Detailed studies at two rookeries were completed (Lincoln, Placer County and San Joaquin River, Merced County, California). The Lincoln Great Blue Heron Rookery contained 68 active nests in 1970 and 6l in 1971. Fledging success per active nest was 2.63 in 1970 and 2.26 in 1971. High winds were the major cause of nestling mortality. Average thickness of hatched eggshells collected beneath the rookery was .354 mm. The San Joaquin River Rookery contained 300 active Great Blue Heron nests and 50 Common [Great] Egret nests in 1970 and 380 Great Blue Heron nests and no Common [Great] Egret nests in 1971. Average clutch size for Great Blue Heron was 3.38 in 1971 with a hatching success of 28 percent in a sample of 45 active nests. Based on a sample of 60 nests, an average of 1.87 young fledged per nest. Adverse weather was a major factor in reduced nesting success. Common [Great] egrets failed to nest at the rookery in 1971. Their reproductive success in 1970 was 1.8 young per nest. 166559:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166559Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:07:37 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-18 - The second year of a two-year study to document reproductive success of the Great Blue Heron and Common [Great] Egret at the San Joaquin River Rookery, Merced County, California was completed. Effort in 1971 focused on determining accurate clutch sizes and number of young fledged per nest. Other ongoing work on the status of waterbirds in California serve as a basis for comparison with results obtained this year at the San Joaquin River Rookery.166558:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166558Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:04:57 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-15 - The second Heron Rookery Survey was conducted in the spring of 1970 by the Department of Fish and Game. A statewide Inventory of 75 active rookeries revealed 4,267 active nests of which 51% were Great Blue Herons, 14% were Common [Great] Egrets, 7% were Snowy Egrets and 28% were Black-crowned Night-herons. This compares to 55, 13, 7 and 25 percent respectively for 1969. Nineteen rookeries active in 1969 were inactive in 1970. Twenty-nine previously unreported rookeries were located in 1970. These contained 1,552 active nests. A subset of 53 rookeries active in 1969 were rechecked in 1970. Findings include 2,530 active nests in 1969 and 2,422 in 1970, reflecting a 4.3% decrease in active nests. Thirteen rookeries were inactive. Analysis made of the herons nesting in these rookeries in 1969 and 1970 revealed an increase of 1.8% active nests for Great Blue Herons, a 12.5% decrease for Common [Great] Egrets, a 22.4% increase for Snowy Egrets, and a 25.1% decrease for Black-crowned Night-herons. Survey data will be more meaningful when several years of data are collected.166556:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166556Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:02:20 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-20 - Little information is available on the current population status of members of the Family Ardeidae including herons, egrets and allies in California. This study is part of a larger effort to fill information gaps on colonial nesting waterbirds in California. Reproductive success of the Great Blue Heron and Common [Great] Egret was assessed at a large heron rookery in California’s Central Valley. Additional information on the natural history of these species was also collected.166557:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166557Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:01:33 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-12 - An inventory of heron and egret rookeries was conducted in the spring of 1969 by the Department of Fish and Game. Seventy-six rookeries were located in 32 counties, their locations documented, and their current status obtained. Inventory of these 76 rookeries revealed 3,210 active nests of Great Blue Herons, Common [Great] Egrets, Snowy Egrets and Black-crowned Night-Herons. Other conservation organizations contributed to this inventory by assisting in documenting heronry locations. It is recommended that the heron and egret rookery inventory be continued. 166555:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=166555Thu, 11 Apr 2019 08:56:54 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00ExternalReportpart of FWS review in response to listing petition - TSS was under consideration for listing under FESA. For 12-month finding in response to a listing petition, contractor/FWS inventoried all known localities for TSS, documented current land use, habitat quality, and ownership, and reviewed potential threats in light of TSS distribution and natural history. Information obtained during this study was combined with contractor’s field studies of TSS, undertaken intermittently since 1979.163988:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=163988Fri, 04 Jan 2019 15:47:30 -08002009-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportTownsend's big-eared bat - Reports the methods and results of a multi-year survey of Townsend's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) in California during 2014 - 2017.162162:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=162162Wed, 14 Nov 2018 12:26:10 -08002018-09-30T00:00:005-YearStatusReviewNongame Wildlife Program Report - Five year status report recommending to downlist the species to threatened.162155:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=162155Wed, 14 Nov 2018 08:09:14 -08001990-01-01T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird, nonbreeding season - 160935:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=160935Tue, 06 Nov 2018 12:39:14 -08002018-08-15T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird survey, 2018-04 - 161984:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=161984Mon, 05 Nov 2018 11:18:29 -08002018-09-01T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird, 2017-07, habitat modeling and drought - 152412:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=152412Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:12:54 -07002017-10-10T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird, 2017-05, monitoring - 155028:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=155028Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:12:18 -07002017-09-20T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird, 2017-06, monitoring - 151501:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=151501Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:10:57 -07002017-09-01T00:00:00InternalReportstatus review - status review - report to F&G Commission for CDFG delisting petition156954:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=156954Mon, 30 Apr 2018 16:59:49 -07002006-10-04T00:00:00InternalReportdrought conservation actions for listed amphibians - 2016 NPS survey of all recently extant (as of 2013) populations MYLF and Yosemite toad populations infected with chytridiomycosis (Bd) in SEKI national parks. Selected other YT, MYLF populations also surveyed.156888:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=156888Wed, 25 Apr 2018 15:10:23 -07002018-04-24T00:00:00154744:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=154744Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:30:18 -08001990-01-01T00:00:00ExternalReportTricolored Blackbird survey - 151160:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=151160Wed, 15 Nov 2017 08:15:43 -08002017-11-08T00:00:00habitat management guide - Distribution, status, habitat, threats, management recommendations for SRB in the San Bernardino National Forest/ SB Mountains148723:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=148723Mon, 18 Sep 2017 16:17:42 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2017-03 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2016, with observers at 42 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 3989-4661 California least tern breeding pairs established 4746 nests and produced 1612-2000 fledglings at 50 documented locations across California. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.35 to 0.50. Statewide, 7891 eggs were reported, with a Statewide clutch size of 1.37 eggs (St Dev = 0.64) for Type 1 sites where monitors walk within the colony. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Least tern mortality due to non-predation factors was greater than mortality due to predation in 2016. The 2016 statewide non-predation chick mortality rate was 29%, higher than that in 2015. The predators known to be responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2016 were peregrine falcons, rats, common ravens, northern harriers, and coyotes. 147610:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=147610Mon, 24 Jul 2017 08:19:14 -07002017-06-22T00:00:00SSCamphibian, reptile, ARSSC, Species of Special Concern - Crosswalk of ARSSC versus CNDDB nomenclature 144402:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=144402Tue, 09 May 2017 07:35:07 -07002017-04-01T00:00:00SSCamphibian, reptile, ARSSC, Species of Special Concern - Table 2 from California Amphibian and Reptile Species of Special Concern by Thomson, R.C., A.N. Wright and H.B. Shaffer. 2016. Univ. of Calif. Press, Oakland, CA138388:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=138388Tue, 09 May 2017 07:34:38 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00Internal_ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2017-01 - Here we report on monitoring, research, and community outreach activities performed between 2014 and 2017 in Los Angeles (LAC) and Orange (OC) counties. Project biologists and volunteers conducted county-wide surveys of all suitable roosting habitats in September, January, March, and May. Project biologists conducted surveys of the main roost sites and nearby beaches in October, November, December, February, April, and June. The January and May surveys corresponded to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) winter and breeding season window surveys. The population of Snowy Plovers in coastal LAC has declined from a peak of 334 in 2006 to 174 in 2017. During the study period, it declined from 251 in 2014 to a low of 140 plover in 2016, with a slight recovery to 174 in 2017. The largest declines are at Zuma and Dockweiler State Beach (Lifeguard Tower 58). In OC, the roost population appears stable, after a decline in 2016. Human recreation and a construction project appear to have reduced numbers at traditionally large roosts at Huntington State Beach and on the Balboa Peninsula. Plover inhabit their non-breeding roosts in both counties between July and April each year. The average daily dimension of plover non-breeding roosts is 244 x 83 feet, and the annual dimensions of plover roosts average 915 x 210 feet. We concur and support recommendations made by USFWS to State Parks in their January 19, 2016 letter and further recommend Best Management Practices when work does need to occur near plover roosts. In both counties, education and outreach programs have reached community members and school children.141801:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=141801Mon, 10 Apr 2017 07:41:06 -07002017-02-24T00:00:00Published-PaperCentral Valley Joint Venture - 141668:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=141668Tue, 04 Apr 2017 16:48:46 -07002017-01-01T00:00:00Published-PaperCentral Valley Joint Venture - 141667:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=141667Tue, 04 Apr 2017 16:48:24 -07002017-01-01T00:00:00InternalReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2017-02 - Amphibians are among the most susceptible taxa to extended drought conditions because of their reliance on aquatic habitats. Species that breed in shallow, ephemeral waters and species that rely on the presence of surface water for all life stages are particularly vulnerable. California has suffered from a severe drought since 2012 with unprecedented low snowpack levels in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range in 2015. The effects of extended drought on native amphibians in these areas are unknown. We investigated the effects of the California drought on populations and habitats of three montane frog species in the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range, CA: the Yosemite toad (Anaxyrus canorus), the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (SNYLF, Rana sierrae), and the Cascades frog (Rana cascadae).141613:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=141613Mon, 03 Apr 2017 13:10:43 -07002017-03-01T00:00:00InternalReportcontract report - Giant kangaroo rats (GKR) are a keystone species throughout their range, including the Carrizo Plain. The recent drought, and associated lack of vegetative growth, resulted in precipitous declines in GKR populations. The objective of the project was to increase giant kangaroo rat survival and production by providing supplemental food at up to 200 locations on the Carrizo Plain and other key recovery areas. Monitoring consisted of live-trapping small mammals in late summer/early fall at all of the locations where supplemental food was provided, and population sizes were estimated using mark-recapture models. 140826:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140826Thu, 09 Mar 2017 16:22:20 -08002016-06-30T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2016-10 - The primary goal of this project was to use captive breeding techniques to increase numbers of the endangered pacific pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus; PPM), learn about the species behavioral ecology as it related to their reproduction and survival skills, genetics and stress, prepare naïve animals for reintroduction to the wild, and reintroduce them to sites within their historic range from which they have previously been extirpated. During Phase 1, we established a captive breeding facility, collected 30 founders from the wild, began breeding mice and conducting research on behavioral ecology, stress and genetics. During Phase 2, we used the results from Phase 1 to design and complete additional studies and grow our captive population of PPM to 110 by fall of 2015. In response to this colony growth and species specific population modeling we were able to prepare for and reintroduce our first group of 50 mice into Laguna Coast Wilderness Park in early summer of 2016. Preparation included, site coordination, permitting, trapping, installing a predator exclusion/dispersal dampening fence and acclimation cages, release cohort selection, diet transition, health checks, marked with P-chips, etc. And, because our research indicated that captive-born mice behave differently than wild-caught mice when exposure to predators and because wild-caught PPM antipredator behavior eroded over time in captivity, we conducted antipredator training for all animals in the release cohort and those on the alternate list. Once mice were reintroduced, we conducted post-release monitoring at 1 and 3 months to assess release success. As of the end of summer 2016, we are cautiously optimistic regarding the release population, but given low numbers of PPM on the site, we propose to supplement with approximately 25 mice in late spring of 2017.138387:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=138387Wed, 08 Feb 2017 07:45:13 -08002016-12-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2016-11 - Here we report on monitoring, research, and community outreach activities performed between July 2015 and June 2016. Project biologists and volunteers conducted county-wide surveys of all suitable roosting habitats in September, January, March, and May. Project biologists conducted surveys of the main roost sites and nearby beaches in October, November, and December, February, April, and June. The January and May surveys corresponded to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s winter and breeding season window surveys. The population of Snowy Plovers in coastal Los Angeles County (LAC) has declined from a peak of 326 in 2012 to just 140 in 2015-16. LAC supports 18.8% of Recovery Unit (RU)-6 and 3.5% of the California non-breeding Snowy Plovers. The population in Orange County (OC) declined slightly from 252 in 2013-14 to 208 in 2014-15. OC supports 20% of RU-6 and 3.7% of California non-breeding Snowy Plovers. Overall, declines were detected in LAC and OC. This was also seen in Ventura County.138386:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=138386Wed, 08 Feb 2017 07:35:17 -08002016-12-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2016-12 - The purpose of this report is to present results on the assessment of climate change vulnerability for 20 native California mammal taxa and to document standardized methods for use in assessing the climate change vulnerability of all 587 native California terrestrial (non-marine) mammal taxa. The assessment for 20 mammal taxa is based on two global climate models (GCMs) and two emission scenarios that were selected from among 12 considered to represent a range of future conditions for California by the end of the 21st century.135825:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=135825Mon, 19 Dec 2016 16:26:38 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2013-08 - Ecological niche models for all 153 reptile and amphibian species in California were built using Maxent to forecast the distribution of climatically suitable habitat under four future climate scenarios and eleven general circulation models for 2050. Risk was measured as both the percentage of currently occupied localities remaining suitable in the future (Point Ranking), and the change in suitable area within a minimum convex polygon of currently occupied localities(Area Ranking). The Point Ranking is based on the Distribution Trend metric from the Amphibian and Reptile Species of Special Concern (ARSSC) document and was designed to measure historical habitat loss. The Area Ranking metric is from NatureServe’s Climate Change Vulnerability Index, and the results from this study can be directly incorporated into other projects using that assessment tool. Depending on ranking metric, approximately 60-75% of reptile and amphibian species were predicted to experience little (<20%) direct loss of climatically suitable habitat by 2050. Reductions in climatic habitat suitability were predicted to be largest for reptiles in the southern mountains and deserts, with reductions for amphibians occurring statewide. The species ranked highest for risk include many that are already of conservation concern and tend to be endemic species with small ranges, such as the black toad, Bufo exsul. The modeled predictions for future habitat suitability presented in this study can be used to inform conservation of California’s reptile and amphibian diversity under climate change, particularly by prioritizing species and regions for monitoring and additional research.135824:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=135824Thu, 15 Dec 2016 14:42:23 -08002013-08-20T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2016-09 - In 2004, the Santa Cruz Island Fox was placed on the federal endangered species list after devastating predation rates by non-native golden eagles in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. The island fox has been listed as threatened by the state of California since 1971. In response to this crisis, island managers, government agencies and research institutions implemented a comprehensive restoration program which helped to save the island fox from extinction. A federal Section 6 grant administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife supported island fox conservation on Santa Cruz Island in 2013- 2016. Using these funds, The Nature Conservancy conducted island-wide census trapping, survival monitoring of a radio-collared sub-sample, and disease management for the purpose of monitoring the recovery of the Santa Cruz Island fox.135190:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=135190Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:39:13 -08002016-12-01T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - The thirty-seventh annual census of the Light-footed Ridgway’s (formerly Clapper) Rail in California was conducted from 22 February to 25 June 2016. 132294:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=132294Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:27:57 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReport5-year status review doc #2016-08 - The Swainson’s Hawk was listed as a threatened species by the California Fish and Game Commission in 1983, pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act. The last status review was completed in 1993. This 5-year status review. In this report, the Department recommends retaining the Threatened classification for this species based on: (1) on-going cumulative loss of foraging habitats throughout California; (2) significantly reduced abundance throughout much of the breeding range compared to historic estimates; (3) an overall reduction in the hawk’s breeding range in California.133622:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133622Thu, 03 Nov 2016 08:02:11 -07002016-04-11T00:00:00