Research, management, and monitoring reports, status assessments and listing petition documents for nongame species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Includes numbered series reports prepared by and for the Nongame Wildlife Program.CDFW Data Portal RSS Feed GeneratorFri, 28 Aug 2026 12:01:10 -0700https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/documents/ContextDocs.aspx?cat=NonGame-GeneralCalifornia 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-GeneralsearchProtocols for capturing bobcats - 247239:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=247239Fri, 28 Aug 2026 12:01:10 -07002026-06-01T00:00:00Monarch butterfly conservation - Key actions and gaps for monarch conservation in California243893:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=243893Fri, 17 Apr 2026 14:29:42 -07002026-04-25T00:00:00Working_Groups_DocumentsMOG Jan 2025 Meeting Notes - Meeting notes for the January 2025 meeting of the Management Oversight Group of the Multi-Agency Monarch and Pollinator Collaborative243888:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=243888Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:02:15 -07002025-01-25T00:00:00ReportPopulation Report - Condor status report that gives wild and captive population numbers.89284:7https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=89284Thu, 26 Feb 2026 13:13:42 -08002025-01-01T00:00:00Wildlife Branch Terrestrial Scientific Collecting Permits - Responses to commonly asked Scientific Collecting Permit Questions.233030:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=233030Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:42:11 -07002025-08-20T00:00:00List of Terrestrial and Vernal Pool Invertebrates of Conservation Priority - The updated list of invertebrate species for which a scientific collecting permit may be required based on NatureServe ranking as well as state/federal status.227337:8https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=227337Wed, 22 Jan 2025 13:41:47 -08002025-01-02T00:00:00Mountain Lion Livestock Depredation Policy Memo 2020 - Mountain Lion Livestock Depredation Policy Memo from WFD Deputy Director and LED Chief to Regional Managers July 10, 2020228087:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=228087Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:32:24 -08002020-07-10T00:00:00Who to contact when you hold a scientific collecting permit - List of Regional contacts for CDFW in 2025. 228082:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=228082Fri, 17 Jan 2025 13:27:23 -08002025-01-17T00:00:00Notes from Monarch Multi-Agency Collaborative, Management Oversight Group (MOG) - Notes from Monarch Multi-Agency Collaborative, Management Oversight Group (MOG) 227101:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=227101Thu, 24 Oct 2024 10:51:14 -07002024-10-24T00:00:00MGS TAG Survey Guidelines October 2021 - MGS TAG Survey Guidelines October 2021222249:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222249Tue, 23 Apr 2024 15:22:04 -07002021-10-27T00:00:00MGS TAG Meeting Oct 2021 Results of Camera Studies222248:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222248Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:58:46 -07002021-10-27T00:00:00MGS TAG Priorities October 2021 - 222247:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222247Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:51:11 -07002021-10-27T00:00:00MGS TAG Meeting Minutes 27 October 2021 - MGS TAG Meeting Minutes 27 October 2021222246:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222246Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:45:28 -07002021-10-27T00:00:00MGS TAG Meeting Agenda 27-28 October 2021 - MGS TAG Meeting Agenda 27-28 October 2021222244:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222244Tue, 23 Apr 2024 13:40:07 -07002021-10-27T00:00:00MGS TAG CDFW Conservation Strategy Overview - MGS TAG CDFW Conservation Strategy Overview222237:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222237Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:17:01 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00CDFW MGS Survey Guidelines - 222236:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222236Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:15:38 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00Modeling MGS Habitat - Modeling optimal and marginal habitat in a non-equilibrium system for a threatened California endemi222235:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222235Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:14:05 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00Results of Five MGS Studies in 2019 - Results of Five MGS Studies in 2019222234:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222234Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:10:59 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00MGS TAG Fecal Analysis 2019 - MGS TAG Fecal Analysis 2019, preliminary results222233:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222233Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:08:11 -07002019-10-29T00:00:002019 MGS Field Work - 2019 MGS Field Work222232:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222232Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:05:44 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00MGS TAG Priorities, October 29-30 2019 - MGS TAG Priorities, October 29-30 2019222230:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222230Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:52:41 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00MGS TAG Meeting Agenda, October 2019 - MGS TAG Meeting Agenda, 29-30 October 2019222228:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222228Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:30:41 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00MGS TAG Meeting Action Items - MGS TAG Meeting Action Items notes222227:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222227Tue, 23 Apr 2024 11:16:04 -07002019-10-29T00:00:00ReportsReports - CDFW report summarizing results of 2023 calendar year Pd (WNS) surveillance efforts.222056:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=222056Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:34:16 -07002024-04-10T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 133014:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133014Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:52:24 -08002023-11-07T00:00:00LivingWithWildlifeBobcat - The bobcat (Lynx rufus) is a medium-sized member of the North American wild cat family. Although bobcats are one of two members of the lynx family found in North America (the other member being the common lynx), only the bobcat occurs in California. Bobcats can be distinguished at a distance by their short "bobbed" tail (4"- 6"), round face and pointed ears. They are found throughout most of California, yet typically go unseen due to their quiet and solitary ways. However, bobcat sightings are increasing as they appear to be using urban and suburban settings more often. Adult bobcats weigh an average of 17-25pounds. Bobcats can be various shades of tan and brown, with dark brown to black stripes, and spots on some parts of the body. The tip of the tail and backs of the ears are black. They have short ear tufts and longer fur on the side of their head, giving the appearance of sideburns216564:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=216564Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:36:55 -07002022-12-01T00:00:00Scientific Collecting Permits for Terrestrial Invertebrates - A flowchart to help researchers determine which authorizations are required to work with terrestrial and vernal pool invertebrates of various conservation statuses.213000:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=213000Tue, 23 May 2023 11:02:54 -07002023-05-19T00:00:005-YearStatusReviewFive-year status report - A five-year review of the status of the riparian brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani riparius) population in California relative to threats and extinction risk.178638:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=178638Mon, 17 Apr 2023 04:38:41 -07002020-02-21T00:00:00White-footed vole, habitat suitability - The White-footed Vole (Arborimus albipes) is one of the least-studied small mammals in North America. Most reported occurrence data come from incidental captures from larger trapping efforts and have demonstrated a strong affinity for Red Alder (Alnus rubra) trees. Recent research represented a range expansion in western Oregon, but little is known about the species at the southern end of its range in California. We developed a distribution model for the species to identify areas best targeted for additional White-footed Vole research. We used this model to survey by trapping in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties, California, and documented 3 new occurrences for the species. These 3 occurrences were incorporated into a final distribution model. This model suggests the possibility of White-footed Vole occurrence in southern Humboldt and northern Mendocino Counties, which would represent a southern expansion of their range. White-footed Voles were captured in areas with smaller alders than non-capture areas, supporting work from Oregon that suggests the species may not be tied to older stands as had been previously reported. Targeted trapping and physiological studies could clarify the environmental niche of this vole.136995:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=136995Sun, 16 Apr 2023 17:36:28 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00BibliographyMohave ground squirrel - 133758:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133758Sun, 16 Apr 2023 17:32:44 -07002017-01-01T00:00:00ReportTricolored Blackbird - 132397:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=132397Sun, 16 Apr 2023 17:30:19 -07002016-09-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Enclosed is a formal petition to list the Mohave ground squirrel (Spermophilus mohavensis) as a THREATENED species under the terms of the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. I believe that a careful reading of the petition will lead to the conclusion that the degree of rarity of this species, and the numerous threats to its continued survival, justify its listing. This is particularly true now because the California Fish and Game Commission chose to remove the Mohave ground squirrel from California's list of threatened and endangered species earlier this year. As one of the three zoologists who recommended the original listing of the Mohave ground squirrel by the California Fish and Game Commission in 1971, I believe that the species clearly is in worse shape now than it was then. However, while I have over 30 years of experience as a mammalogist and herpetologist studying the fauna of southern California, my attention has not been focused on the Mohave ground squirrel. Thus, in preparing the enclosed petition, I have drawn heavily on the work of others who are cited in the document. I would appreciate your acknowledging receipt of this petition and keeping me apprised of its progress through your review process. Considering the Mohave ground squirrel's impending lack of legal protection, I urge you begin the process without delay. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.99324:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=99324Sun, 16 Apr 2023 16:29:27 -07001993-12-06T00:00:00Occupancy modeling; Endangered Species - We randomly sampled the occurrence of Point Arena mountain beavers (PAMB) from the portion of their geographic range that was accessible (public lands plus private lands where permission was granted). We surveyed 127 25-ha sample units (55.4% of accessible sample units) for PAMB burrows and estimated our probability of detecting burrows, if they were present, at > 90% per visit. Using this information, we estimated occupancy across the accessible portion of the range to be 26.2%. This estimate can serve as a baseline for monitoring occupancy status. Monitoring occupancy across the geographic range, combined with strategically selected locations where abundance and survival can be estimated non-invasively, may comprise a realistic and meaningful monitoring program for this taxon. We also used the detection and non-detection locations to develop a habitat suitability model by relating both sets of locations to remotely sensed predictors. We evaluated 53 a priori candidate habitat suitability models and the best-fitting model included: slope (-), terrain roughness index (-), and the density of rivers and streams (+). This model predicted, for every sample unit within the PAMB’s geographic range, a value of probability of occurrence from zero to one. We selected the probability value that best separated the sample units into suitable and non-suitable habitat, resulting in an estimate of 70.5 km2 of suitable habit, or approximately 40.4% of the original 2 geographic range. Suitable habitat was most common in the middle (along the north-south axis) of the range. A substantial number of suitable areas were predicted along the eastern margin of the range, suggesting that PAMBs may be discovered even farther east than we sampled. New detections in the eastern portions of the range expanded the known geographic range to ~134 km2 (~235 km2 if a 3-km buffer is added), moderating concerns about habitat loss, including that predicted by climate change. The identification of high suitability areas allows management agencies to prioritize areas for PAMB conservation planning and to evaluate human impacts on habitat.99323:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=99323Sun, 16 Apr 2023 16:29:25 -07002014-06-25T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80659:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80659Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:57 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80658:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80658Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:55 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80657:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80657Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:52 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80656:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80656Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:50 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80655:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80655Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:48 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00Golden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80654:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80654Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:47 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80653:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80653Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:44 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80652:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80652Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:43 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80651:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80651Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:40 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80650:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80650Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:37 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80649:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80649Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:33 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80648:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80648Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:30 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80647:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80647Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:28 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00PresentationGolden Eagle - Presentation given at the CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Group meeting held in Reno, NV, January 27, 2014.80643:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80643Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:26 -07002014-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - Since 1940, California populations of the Gray Vireo have collapsed, presumably because of parasitism by the Brown-headed Cowbird, which invaded the vireo’s California range about 1915. The vireo is nearly extirpated from the San Jacinto Mountains, a former stronghold. Therefore, we have updated the current status and distribution of the Gray Vireo in California, and in 2012 and 2013 studied the Gray Vireo’s nest success in two regions of San Diego County, sites of the largest populations known in California. We regularly monitored approximately 41 territories in 2012 and 31 in 2013. We located and monitored a total of 95 nests, 91% found during construction or early in the egg stage. We checked nests at intervals of 2–5 days and deployed video cameras on 30. The rate of nest failure was extremely high: only 17 nests fledged any young. Renesting after failure was universal, with one pair attempting at least six nests. One pair, the earliest to fledge young in 2012, successfully double brooded that year. Only one nest had an unknown outcome. Of the 77 failed nests, we confirmed 10 parasitized by cowbirds, all abandoned before hatching. One nest failed because of strong winds, and one nest was abandoned during the egg stage for unknown cause. The remaining 65 nests failed because of confirmed or probable depredation, 56 during probable egg-laying or incubation, 7 during the nestling (brooding) stage, and 2 near hatching (uncertain stage). The Western Scrub-Jay was the most frequent predator, prevalent in all Gray Vireo territories and actively searching for nests while scolded by the vireos. Video cameras documented 30 nests with the following outcomes: 7 successful, 3 parasitized by cowbirds, 5 suspected depredation (but unrecorded or uncertain), and 15 confirmed depredated, 10 by Western Scrub-Jays (eggs taken in each case), one by a gray fox (nestlings taken), one by a bobcat (adult female taken), one by a Bewick’s Wren (eggs taken), and two by an unidentified predator (eggs taken in one case, nestlings taken in the other). An additional 15 nests failed during construction probably before eggs were laid so were not included in the total or in any analyses, although some of these may have failed because of depredation as well. As calculated from exposure days, the total probability of nest survival was only 9%, probably insufficient to sustain the population. Of the two regions of San Diego County included in this study, the population in the northern part of the county has decreased substantially from that recorded 1997–2001 for the San Diego County Bird Atlas: only six territories located in 2012–2013 at a single site, out of seven sites searched that were formerly occupied. The leading role of the scrub-jay rather than the cowbird in depressing nest success currently will make recovering the Gray Vireo more challenging than recovering the Least Bell’s Vireo.80449:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=80449Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:57:00 -07002014-02-27T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program - 76045:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=76045Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:38:50 -07002013-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - This report was submitted to the Fish and Game Commission in November 2013. The purpose of report is to update the Commission concerning the status of the condor population, generally, and assist the Commission concerning the requirment that the Commission "shall issue" a report regarding lead exposuire to condors covering 2011 and 2012 calendar years. 75883:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=75883Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:38:21 -07002013-01-01T00:00:00CESA Listing Petition - 75447:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=75447Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:37:19 -07002013-04-25T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2012, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 4293-6421 California least tern breeding pairs established 6636 nests and produced 557-628 fledglings at 49 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.09 to 0.15. Statewide, 11,036 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.66 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.134) and a Statewide clutch size of 1.65 eggs (St Dev = 0.492) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Naval Base Coronado, Point Mugu, Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve, Camp Pendleton, Huntington State Beach, and Alameda Point represented 74% of the breeding pairs. Fledgling numbers were also unevenly distributed as the two sites with at least 90 fledglings each (Hayward and Huntington State Beach) contributed 38% of the state’s production, and the five sites with greater than 35 fledglings each (Hayward, Huntington State Beach, Oceano Dunes, Seal Beach, and Lindbergh Field) contributed 59% of the state’s production. The 2012 chick mortality rate was 49%, continuing the upward trend observed in the previous four years. With the exception of Batiquitos Lagoon and Camp Pendleton, the larger nesting colonies experienced chick mortality rates less than the average, which is opposite that documented in 2011. The most commonly-reported possible, suspected, or documented predators were common ravens (Corvus corax), American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), peregrine falcon (Falco sparverius), great-blue herons (Ardea herodias), American kestrels (Falco sparverius), and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis). The predators known to be responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2012 were American kestrel, coyote (Canis latrans), common raven, American crow, unknown avian species, unknown gull species, gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon nilotica), red-tailed hawk, peregrine falcon, and northern harrier (Circus cyaneus). The monitoring effort of 2012 is scheduled to continue in 2013.75039:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=75039Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:36:38 -07002013-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The thirty-fourth annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted from 2 March to 21 June 2013. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Mugu Lagoon in Ventura County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. For the second year in a row the California population of the Light-footed Clapper Rail exceeded 500 breeding pairs. A total of 525 pairs exhibited breeding behavior in 22 marshes in 2013. This is the highest count on record, representing an increase of four pairs over the breeding population detected in 2012, and 18.5% larger than the former high count in 2007. The tally at Upper Newport Bay was the highest ever recorded at 191 pairs. The Newport subpopulation was once again the largest in California with 15.8% more rails exhibiting breeding behavior than in 2012 and 9.8% more than the former high count in 2005 of 174 pairs. Tijuana Marsh NWR was at its third highest recorded level with 105 breeding pairs, an increase of 4% over the 2012 breeding season but 26% lower than the record high of 142 pairs in 2007. The Newport subpopulation comprised 36.4% of the state population in 2013 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 20%, together accounting for 56.4% of the breeding population of this rail in California. Eight of the small subpopulations increased in size from the 2012 totals, increasing by a combined total of 12 breeding pairs in 2013. Batiquitos Lagoon was at a record high of 45 breeding pairs, ranking it as the third largest subpopulation in California in 2013. Point Mugu increased from 16 pairs in 2011 to 22 pairs in 2012, and 23 pairs in 2013, a record high. There were declines totaling 39 pairs at 7 marshes including, most notably at San Elijo Lagoon (-11 pairs), San Dieguito Lagoon (-8 pairs), Kendall-Frost Reserve (-8 pairs), and Buena Vista Lagoon (-7 pairs). Excluding the 2 largest subpopulations, there were 7 subpopulations in double figures, ranging from 10 to 45 pairs and totaling 187 breeding pairs or 35.6% of the state total. The remaining 13 subpopulations ranged from 1 to 8 pairs and totaled 42 breeding pairs of clapper rails, or 8% of the total. The annual increases in the population total of the Light-footed Clapper Rail between 2002 and 2007 gave encouragement that restoration and management including captive propagation were contributing to the recovery of this endangered bird. The 2008 crash was presumably weather-related and a harbinger of what could be in store if wide weather fluctuations are the future norm. Record high counts of 520 and 525 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails in 2012 and 2013 is a manifestation of this subspecies’ resiliency with appropriate management.75038:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=75038Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:36:33 -07002013-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - Mohave ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus mohavensis) populations were monitored in April 2013 at two study sites in the Coso Range of southwestern Inyo County, California. These sites have been protected from human impacts since 1990, so population trends here should reflect the influence of natural environmental forces. Live-trapping was carried out on 25-hectare grids for 5 days and the number of captures was used as an indication of abundance. Six adult Mohave ground squirrels were captured at Coso Basin (Study Site 2) in 2013, while 19 individuals were trapped at Cactus Peak (Study Site 3). Mohave ground squirrel abundance was down sharply from 2012, when numbers were by far the highest recorded since the current monitoring program began in 2001. The extraordinary abundance recorded in 2012 apparently resulted from a four-year sequence of winters (2007-08 to 2010-11) with high and steadily increasing rainfall. However, rainfall during the 2011-12 winter was considerably below the threshold for Mohave ground squirrel reproduction and none of the adult Mohave ground squirrels captured in April 2012 were in reproductive condition. There was even less precipitation during the winter of 2012-13, resulting in complete reproductive failure for a second year. Adult abundance in spring 2014 is predicted to be significantly lower again. These results extend the only long-term record of population trends for the Mohave ground squirrel and demonstrate the great importance of winter rainfall to sustaining viable populations in this species. Data from the Coso study can also provide a helpful perspective on the results from short-term surveys elsewhere. It is recommended that funding be provided to continue this unique record.74940:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=74940Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:36:30 -07002013-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 70271:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=70271Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:21:18 -07002010-11-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 70270:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=70270Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:21:15 -07002010-08-10T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 70267:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=70267Sun, 16 Apr 2023 14:21:12 -07002010-09-01T00:00:00AnnualReportGeneral Technical Report - The 1991 annual report on the status of species listed as rare, threatened or endangered species in California summarized the status of 72 animals and 210 plant species. Five species of plants and one animal species designated as a “candidate” for listing under the California Endangered Species Act during the reporting period were also addressed. In 1991, the Fish and Game Commission listed the Sonoma sunshine, a native wildflower, as an endangered species but did not advance the California gnatcatcher to candidacy. Recovery of listed species progressed slowing during 1991. The captive breeding program for the California condor continued to recruit healthy young condors into the captive population with a total of 52 captive individuals. Management of the least tern, bald eagle, peregrine falcon and light-footed clapper rail yielded positive results. Two plant species, the Tiberon mariposa lily and the Humboldt milk vetch, showed population increases. An analysis of recent trends in populations of California’s State-listed (and candidate) plants and animals revealed 19 percent of were stable or increasing and 70 percent were declining, signaling further degradation in the health of California’s ecosystems. Eleven percent had unknown population trends.57615:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=57615Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:20:02 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00ReportLands Program - The California Department of Fish and Game's Landowner Incentive Program (LIP) provided monetary incentives and technical assistance to participating landowners to enhance wildlife habitats. In order to document and assess riparian restoration activities supported by LIP, bird and habitat monitoring was conducted at six LIP-supported restoration sites during the breeding seasons in 2009, 2010 and 2011. Sites were located in the counties of Tehama, Yolo, San Joaquin, and Merced.57331:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=57331Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:18:57 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2012-02 - The thirty-third annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted mostly from 19 February to 10 June 2012. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Mugu Lagoon in Ventura County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A total of 520 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails exhibited breeding behavior in 20 marshes in 2012. This is the highest count on record, representing a 17.9% increase over the breeding population detected in 2011, and 17.4% larger than the former high count in 2007. Upper Newport Bay with 165 pairs was once again the largest subpopulation in California with 20.4% more rails exhibiting breeding behavior than in 2011 and only 5.5% fewer than the high count in 2005 of 174 pairs. Tijuana Marsh NWR was at its fourth highest recorded level with 101 breeding pairs, a 10.6% reduction from the 2011 breeding season and 28.9% lower than the record high of 142 pairs in 2007. The Newport subpopulation comprised 31.7% of the state population in 2012 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 19.4%, together accounting for 51.1% of the breeding population of this rail in California. Seven of the small subpopulations increased in size from the 2011 totals, increasing by a combined total of 73 breeding pairs in 2012. The subpopulation in Batiquitos Lagoon maintained its high total of 43 breeding pairs, ranking it as the fourth largest subpopulation in California surpassed in 2012 by San Dieguito with an all-time high count of 45 pairs. Four of the smaller subpopulations were reduced by 1 to 3 pairs. Point Mugu increased from 16 pairs in 2011 to 22 pairs in 2012, a record high and the Seal Beach tally increased to 42 pairs. Detectable breeding pairs doubled in San Elijo Lagoon reaching a high count of 31 breeding pairs and the U.C. Kendall-Frost Reserve was down slightly to 16 pairs. Excluding the 2 largest subpopulations, there were 7 subpopulations in double figures, ranging from 11 to 45 pairs and totaling 210 breeding pairs or 40.4% of the state total. The remaining 11 subpopulations ranged from 1 to 9 pairs and totaled 44 breeding pairs of clapper rails, or 8.5% of the total. The annual increases in the population total of the Light-footed Clapper Rail between 2002 – 2007 gave encouragement that restoration and management including captive propagation were contributing to the recovery of this endangered bird. The 2008 crash was presumably weather-related and a harbinger of what could be in store if wide weather fluctuations are the future norm. Another record high count, this of 520 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails in 2012 is a manifestation of this subspecies’ resiliency with appropriate management. 55553:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=55553Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:13:47 -07002012-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationCalifornia Department of Fish and Game Report - The Department of Fish and Game evaluated the petition to list the gray wolf as an endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act. It found there was sufficient scientific information to recommend to the California Fish and Game Commission that the petitioned act may be warranted.54322:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=54322Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:10:56 -07002012-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2012-01 - Monitoring to document breeding success of the California least tern continued in 2011 with observers at 40 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 4826-6108 breeding pairs established 6435 nests and produced 1038-1195 fledglings at 49 locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.17-0.25. Statewide, 11,140 eggs were reported, with a site mean clutch size of 1.76 eggs per nest. Numbers of nesting terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve, Huntington Beach, Pt. Mugu and Alameda Point represented 79% of the breeding pairs while Alameda Point, Camp Pendleton, Huntington Beach, Naval Base Coronado and Tijuana River NERR produced 55% of the fledglings. The 2011 chick mortality rate of 20% is slightly greater than the last three years. Predators responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2011 were unknown avian species, American crows, gulls, peregrine falcons, gull-billed terns, and common ravens. The monitoring effort is scheduled to continue in 2012.48694:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=48694Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:10:44 -07002012-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-20 - The purpose of this study was to survey riparian habitats to determine population levels of riparian obligate birds in Inyo County, California. Special sampling was conducted for yellow-billed cuckoo and the interior population of snowy plover; all riparian species assessed. Note Figures 1 and 2 are missing from the report.48433:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=48433Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:10:35 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-23 - An attempt to census the population of California clapper rails (Rallus longirostris obsoletus) in Elkhorn and Moro Cojo Sloughs, Monterey County, California, was initiated. No evidence of rails was found in Moro Cojo Slough. A minimum population of 14 birds was detected at Elkhorn Slough. A detailed description of a nest site is presented. Survey techniques, including rope drags, broadcast of recorded rail calls, and observations on rail "runways" are discussed relative to their feasibility and validity. Data are presented on five captured chicks. Recommendations are made to protect the limited rail population in Elkhorn Slough.48114:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=48114Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:09:41 -07001972-01-01T00:00:00Monarch butterfly handling - Document describes activities that require permits, commmunity science opportunities, monarch conservation and education activities, appropriate milkweed species to plant194943:8https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=194943Tue, 10 May 2022 14:59:52 -07002021-11-01T00:00:00Monarch butterfly volunteer sampling protocol - Sampling goals, permits and regulations, field procedures, storage and shipping195860:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=195860Tue, 07 Dec 2021 17:34:29 -08002021-11-01T00:00:00Monarch butterfly genomics - monarch genomics community science project datasheet (Excel spreadsheet)195775:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=195775Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:55:24 -08002021-11-01T00:00:00San Bernardino kangaroo rat - 195354:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=195354Wed, 06 Oct 2021 16:19:47 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus RHDV2 - Brief description of expansion of known RHDV2 range into Northern California with background information n the virus and efforts to vaccinate riparian brush rabbits for public audience193431:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=193431Wed, 07 Jul 2021 09:44:37 -07002021-07-07T00:00:00Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep five year review 2021 - A 5-year review of the Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep species population status and population trend, range and distribution and trends, and the status and trends of threats affecting the species circa 2021191967:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=191967Fri, 16 Apr 2021 09:00:28 -07002021-04-14T00:00:00SCCCalifornia 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.189271:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=189271Wed, 03 Mar 2021 13:39:21 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00Notice of Changes to Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Authorizations, and Handling Precautions for Bats and other Mammals - Notice of Changes to Scientific Collecting Permit (SCP) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Authorizations, and Handling Precautions for Bats and other Mammals 179075:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=179075Tue, 19 May 2020 11:21:11 -07002020-05-06T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-03 - Surveys and inventories to determine the distribution and abundance of Spotted Owls (Strix occidentalis) were conducted in Yosemite National Park from April through August of 1988 and 1989. Surveys covered 577.4 km2 of forest habitat at elevations between 1220 m and 2465 m. Owls were seen or responded to imitatied spotted owl calls at 58 sites over the two seasons. This included findidng owls at 12 of 15 previously known sites. U.S. Forest Service protocol was used to establish pair occupancy at 10 of 13 sites checked in 1988 and at 12 of 18 sites checked in 1989. Reproductive activity was observed serendipitously. Two nest trees and four sites with young were observed in 1988, and four nest trees and two sites with young were observed in 1989. There was a greater rate of presence of spotted owls at elevations from 1295 m to 2055 m than at higher and lower elevations. Combined crude densities were estimated to be 0.18 owls/km2 and 0.10 territories/km2. 2940:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2940Tue, 17 Sep 2019 08:18:13 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportGeneral Technical Report - This is the 1990 annual California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) report summarizing the status of 72 animals and 140 plants listed as threatened and endangered by the Fish and Game Commission. Legislation affecting endangered species, funding programs and habitat preservation programs are also reviewed. In 1990, the Commission listed the willow flycatcher as an endangered species and rejected a DFG recommendation to list the Delta Smelt. A few endangered species such as the bald eagle and peregrine falcon are on the road to recovery as their numbers have increased in response to active management programs and controls on pollutants. The captive breeding program for the California condor was successful in 1990 with an increase in the population to 40 birds. The captive population will probably reach 60 or more birds by the summer of 1991, keeping pace with plans for the reintroduction of California condors into southern California in the winter of 1991-92. Many endangered species survive as small, fragmented populations, and under these conditions there is no certainty they will survive for long. For the second year, an analysis of the recent trends in populations of State-listed plants and animals was undertaken. Overall, 21 percent of California's listed plants and animals are stable (but are not necessarily safe) or increasing; however, 70 percent of the listed plant and animal species are declining, signaling further degradation in the health of California ecosystems. These declines result from the destruction and degradation of endangered species habitat through a variety of direct and indirect human impacts described in this report. California commits more funds to endangered species protection than any other state, yet our effort has been inadequate to counter the demands that nearly 30 million residents place on our natural resources. We must redouble our commitment if we are to preserve our rich natural heritage, the flora and fauna of California. This is the fifth annual report to the Commission, the California Legislature and the Governor's Office as required by the California Endangered Species Act. 170610:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=170610Thu, 05 Sep 2019 09:02:22 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportGeneral Technical Report - The report describes the status of fish and wildlife species listed by the California Fish and Game Commission as endangered or rare and summarizes what is being done to ensure the continued survival of those species.174203:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=174203Thu, 05 Sep 2019 09:02:09 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-01 - A survey was conducted from March-September 1977 to determine the current status of six federally endangered butterflies which reside in California. The butterflies are the San Bruno elfin, Mission blue, Lotis blue, Smith's blue, El Segundo blue, and Lange's metalmark. The following aspects were investigated for each endangered species: survey of the sites currently inhabited and exploration for unknown sites; population size, density and mortality factors determined by mark-release-recapture techniques; life history investigations to determine larval foodplants; and, determination of factors threatening survival.40013:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40013Tue, 21 May 2019 10:44:48 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-16 - The Department recommends that the Swainson's hawk retain Threatened status. Loss of nesting and foraging habitat due to agricultural and urban expansion has greatly reduced the breeding range and abundance of the Swainson's Hawk in California. Bloom (1980) estimated a 90% decline in the breeding population between 1900 and 1979. Approximately 80% of the total state-wide population of 550 pairs is currently found in the Central Valley where agricultural conversion has replaced virtually all native grassland foraging habitat (Estep 1989). Agricultural cropping patterns directly influence the distribution and abundance of the Swainson's Rawk in the Central Valley (Estep 1989). This dependence on agriculture poses a continuing threat to a large percentage of the remaining population based on current trends toward cultivation of incompatible (with Swainson's Hawk habitat requirements)crop-types. Agricultural conversion, reduced prey populations, possibly due to a combination of drought conditions and overgrazing, and loss of historic sage-steppe/grassland foraging habitat may be factors in a continuing decline of Swainson's Hawks in portions of the Great Basin region of the state. Urban development also continues to reduce Swainson's Hawk nesting and foraging habitat in the Central Valley. 2943:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2943Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:09:10 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-14 - In California, greater sandhill cranes winter in the Central Valley and nest in six northeastern counties. These birds are part of the Central Valley population of greater sandhill cranes estimated at about 5,000 to 6,000 individuals. Of the 276 nesting pairs located during a Department of Fish and Game study in northeastern California in 1988, 185 (67.0 percent) were on private land and 91 (33.0 percent) were found on State and Federal lands. The current population is estimated to be within ten percent of the 1988 population estimate based on information obtained over the past five years. This entire population as well as approximately 25,000 lesser sandhill cranes (G.c. canadensis) share the California wintering ground extending from the Butte Sink area in Butte County in the north, southward to the Kern National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Kern County, and the Carrizo Plain in eastern San Luis Obispo County. Although there have been no comprehensive breeding population studies since 1988, recent observations indicate that the population level is stable. Of nests recorded on public lands in 1988, 40 were on NWRs, 36 on State wildlife areas and 15 on U.S. Forest Service lands. The relatively high percentage of crane pairs nesting on private lands makes them susceptible to the threat of land use changes. Recent studies, observations, and project reviews undertaken by the Department indicate that land conversions, combined with high predation rates on both eggs and young in some regions, power line collisions, disease, drought, timber harvesting near nest sites, early meadow haying, livestock grazing, and lowering water tables continue to threaten breeding and wintering greater sandhill cranes in California and neighboring states. Within certain portions of the range there has been an apparent trend toward increase in the numbers of pairs of cranes discovered in California for at least the past four decades. However, the number of nesting pairs has decreased since 1981 in other localized areas. This shifting of population distribution within the overall range is primarily due to changes in available habitats required by cranes for nest sites. In addition, it is difficult to relate earlier numbers prior to forty years ago that were primarily based on cursory survey efforts with our more recent (since 1971) intensive investigations. Based on continuing land use threats and low population numbers, the Department recommends retaining the current threatened status for the greater sandhill crane. 3521:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3521Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:08:35 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-30 - The status of the bald eagle has been improving in California and throughout most of the rest of the nation for more than a decade. The number of breeding pairs in Californa has beenslowly increasing; however, the species is still not near the recovery level established by the interagency Pacific States Bald Eagle Recovery Team. The breeding population is still restricted to only a small portion of its historical range in California, re-occupancy by new breeding pairs in former range is occurring slowly, and the reproductive rate is only slightly above that needed to sustain a stable population. Also, several threats continue to impact the species: environmental contamination continues to depress reproductive success of part of the breeding population, causes of most known mortalities of immature and adult birds are human-related, and the majority of breeding and wintering habitats are heavily influenced by recreational and economic activities. The Department recommended retaining "Endangered" status for the bald eagle on the California endangered species list and suggested that, following the 1990 breeding season, the species should be considered for reclassification to Threatened" status if supported by the data.26048:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26048Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:08:18 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-04 - In California, the elf owl is restricted to the scattered native riparian habitat along the lower Colorado River. The habitat type has been reduced to less than 4% of its original area. Since listing, the species have apparently not increased in numbers or distribution, despite the release of captively reared birds. The Department recommends retention of "Endangered" status for this species, under the California Endangered Species Act.26076:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26076Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:07:53 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-05 - Great gray owls probably have always been rare in California. They appear to be restricted to the scattered meadow-mature forest zone on the west slope of the Sierra Nevada. In this area, meadows have been degraded by cattle grazing and development while the mature forest has sustained heavy logging pressure. Immediately prior to listing, only eight probable pairs of great gray owls were known from four general areas in Yosemite National Park and adjacent national forests. Since the listing in 1980, the species probably has not increased in numbers or distribution. Some recent sightings in new areas appear to be the result of increased observer effort. On U.S. Forest Service lands, habitat conditions have not improved since listing; there is still significant timber harvest pressure. The Department recommends retention of "Endangered" status for the species, under the California Endangered Species Act.26078:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26078Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:07:38 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-27 - Loss of nesting and foraging habitat due to agricultural and urban expansion has greatly reduced the breeding range and abundance of the Swainson's hawk in California. An estimated 90% decline in the breeding population occurred between 1900 and 1979. Approximately 80% of the total statewide population is currently found in the Central Valley where agricultural conversion has replaced virtually all native grassland foraging habitat. Agricultural cropping patterns currently influence the distribution and abundance of the Swainson's hawk in the Central Valley. This dependence on agriculture poses a continuing threat to a large percentage of the remaining population based on current trends toward cultivation of incompatible (with Swainson's hawk habitat requirements) crop-types. The Department recommended retention of "Threatened" status for the Swainson's hawk under the California Endangered Species Act.26049:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26049Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:07:23 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-33 - Cultivation of the San Joaquin antelope squirrel's habitat continues to be the single most important factor threatening this species. Currently, no known habitat exists that is considered prime, and much of the habitat rated as "marginal to fair" is under threat of cultivation. There are virtually no public lands in the San Joaquin Valley which serve as reserves for this species. The only relatively large block of public land which might be of sufficient size to preserve the genetic diversity and sustain a population indefinitely is on the Department of Energy's Elk Hills Naval Petroleum Reserve. Proposed water delivery systems which would transport northern California water to the southern San Joaquin Valley will encourage even greater conversion of San Joaquin antelope squirrel habitat and could eventually cause extirpation of the species from all but public lands. The Department recommended retention of "Threatened" status under the California Endangered Species Act.26052:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26052Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:07:07 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-04 - American peregrine falcons in California and throughout most of the range of the anatum subspecies in North American have been making a steady recovery from the population crash that became evident in the 1940s. The population increase is encouraging but represents only partial recovery. Much of the increase since the 1970s has been the result of intensive efforts to find and protect previously unknown territories and from the intensive management program that has placed captive-hatched peregrines in the wild. Despite improvements in the environment brought about by restrictions placed on the use of DDT, the problem of environmental contamination by DDE, a breakdown product of DDT, still exists. Peregrine falcon eggshell thinning continues at critical levels in California and has impacted nesting success of the species in several locations in the state. The Department recommends retention of "Endangered" status for this species, under the California Endangered Species Act.26083:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26083Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:06:51 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 90-07 - The Department recommends retention of endangered status for the Fresno kangaroo rat. Population surveys in 1988 and 1989 failed to locate Fresno kangaroo rat on existing ecological reserves acquired to protect the species. Populations located in Merced and Kings counties are mere remnants and may not be representative genetically of D. n. exilis. Remaining populations continue to be jeopardized by loss of habitat, use of rodenticides for control of California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi), flooding of habitat, and lack of management to enhance habitat and monitor populations on existing reserves. The proposed water delivery system to western Madera and central Merced County would provide additional irrigation to the largest remaining uncultivated blocks of historic habitat for Fresno kangaroo rat. These may represent the only habitats with sufficient size and protection from flooding to maintain viable populations of the species. None of this land is currently protected from agricultural or other developments. 2954:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2954Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:06:32 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-26 - Inyo brown [Califoria] towhee is resident in dense riparian vegetation in the Argus Mountains of Inyo County. Habitat destruction and degradation are the only known threats for this species. Water diversions, ground water pumping, grazing by large exotic mammals, mining and recreational activities may impact the species' habitat. The Department recommends retention of "Endangered" status for the species under the California Endangered Species Act.26074:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26074Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:06:17 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-26 - In California, greater sandhill cranes presently winter in the Central Valley and nest in six northeastern counties. The Central Valley population of greater sandhill cranes are estimated at about 5,000 to 6,000 individuals. A high percentage of crane pairs were found nesting on private lands in 1988 and could result in a significant threat to the state's nesting population. The potential for private landowners to convert meadow and marsh habitat to cereal grain and/or alfalfa crops remains. Land conversions, combined with high predation rates on both eggs and young in some regions, powerline collisions, disease, drought, early meadow haying, livestock grazing, and lowering water tables threaten nesting and wintering greater sandhill cranes in California and neighboring states. The Department recommended retention of "Threatened" status for the crane under the California Endangered Species Act.26055:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26055Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:06:02 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-25 - The historic range of the giant kangaroo rat has been greatly reduced by agricultural expansion and other forms of development. Remaining populations of this animal are small and widely scattered, making them vulnerable to a variety of threats. Pesticides, continued conversion of remnant habitats, and catastrophic events such as floods and fires could result in eventual extinction of the species. The Department recommended retention of "Endangered" status for the giant kangaroo rat, under the California Endangered Species Act.26050:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26050Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:05:47 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of threatened status for the limestone salamander due to limited distribution and a lack of information on the population size, ecology, life history, and mobility of the species. 45734:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=45734Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:05:21 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-32 - The Sierra Nevada red fox has a small population and is possibly declining in California. High elevation habitat is under pressure from logging activities, livestock grazing and human disturbance. Retention of "threatened" status is recommended. 4020:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4020Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:05:05 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for the barefoot banded gecko. The species is rare and highly prized by collectors for captive maintenance and sale. Collecting technique which includes prying rock flakes and removing boulders is highly destructive to the species' fragile habitat.32038:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32038Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:04:50 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for the black toad. The known range is extremely restricted and occurs almost entirely on private property. Loss of tadpoles and eggs through irrigation water diversion and trampling of wetland habitat by cattle are known threats to the species. 32037:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32037Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:04:33 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for the Kern Canyon slender salamander. The species has a very small known range with nearly all sites occurring on Sequoia National Forest (SNF)property. SNF does not manage for the species and allows certain activities (collection of downed wood and other forest products) which pose a threat to the species. 32036:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32036Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:04:14 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for the Siskiyou Mountain salamander. Very little is known about the species' distribution or abundance. Additionally, its taxonomic status is unclear and deserves further attention. Destruction of habitat by clear-cut logging and development and other human impacts are known threats to the species.32035:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32035Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:03:57 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for the Tehachapi slender salamander. The species has a very small range and is vulnerable to environmental disturbances. Most known occurrences are found on private land and are difficult to protect. Known threats include highway construction, development, cattle grazing, logging and downed wood removal.32034:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32034Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:03:43 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-28 - The Mohave ground squirrel is threatened by habitat destruction or degradation due to urbanization and agricultural development. The species is resident in several plant communities in the Mojave Desert. The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status under the California Endangered Species Act.26082:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26082Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:03:28 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-29 - Stephens' kangaroo rat continues to be threatened by destruction or degradation of its grassland habitat or sparsely vegetated shrubland habitat. The Department recommends changing the classification of this species from "Threatened" to "Endangered" under the California Endangered Species Act.26081:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26081Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:03:10 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-30 - Continued loss of mature riparian floodplain forest in California is a major threat to the western yellow-billed cuckoo. A change is status from "threatened" to "endangered" is recommended.3022:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3022Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:02:54 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-31 - So little is known about the wolverine in California that it makes planning for its protection and management difficult. Based on the lack of available data relative to other wildlife populations in the state, and in the absence of a comprehensive approach to wolverine research and management, the Department recommended retention of "Threatened" status for this rare species. 26051:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26051Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:02:35 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-27 - Retention of "threatened" status is recommended for the island fox, based on continued degradation of habitat by non-native herbivores on Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Santa Catalina and San Clemente islands. Feral cats also pose a continued threat to the species on San Nicholas, Santa Catalina and San Clemente islands. 4021:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4021Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:02:16 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-25 - Habitat loss and destruction are the major threats to the continued existence of the California black rail in California. The species requires high marsh vegetation (salt, brackish or freshwater marsh) for nesting and escape cover. The Department recommends retention of "Threatened" status for this species, under the California Endangered Species Act.26073:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26073Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:01:59 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-24 - The Belding's Savannah sparrow is a resident of southern California's coastal salt marshes. This habitat continues to be impacted by draining, filling, loss of tidal flow,loss of upper marsh, and human disturbance. The Department recommends retention of "Endangered" status for this species under the California Endangered Species Act.26072:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26072Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:01:44 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-11 - A 5-year status review of the bank swallow (Riparia riparia), a state-listed threatened species, was prepared. The bank swallow population levels continue to decline despite being listed as threatened species by the Fish and Game Commission in 1989. The number of breeding pairs and colonies has declined steadily, and there appears to be no abatement in the activities that pose the greatest threat to habitats and populations. No change in status is recommended while monitoring continues to determine precise causes of the decline and potential mitigation for projects that threaten breeding habitat. If present habitat destruction trends continue, a change in status to "endangered" may be warranted. Life history, population status, distribution and trend, threats, and management recommendations are presented. 2927:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2927Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:01:23 -07001995-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The southern rubber boa occurs in the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains, typically in mixed conifer and oak woodlands between 5,000 and 8,000 feet elevation. The species is poorly known. Accelerating development pressure threatens this species through habitat destruction. Retention of threatened status is recommended.46589:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=46589Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:01:01 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The giant garter snake occurs in the Central Valley, preferring wetlands, riparian areas with upland buffer zones. Expanding urban and agricultural development threaten this species' habitat. Retention of threatened status is recommended. 46590:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=46590Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:00:43 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Shasta salamander was originally listed as rare under the California Endangered Species Act based on limited range and disjunct populations. Since listing, eight additional populations have been found. Each population, however, appears to be genetically unique. Most of the known populations are on public land and are proteced through current management priorities. Human activity within limestone areas could adversely affect the species' habitat. Enlarging Shasta Lake would destroy occupied Shasta salamander habitat. Retention of threatened status is recommended. 46587:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=46587Tue, 23 Oct 2018 07:00:24 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00FiveYearReportInland Fisheries Division - The Alameda whipsnake is considered to be one of the rarest snakes in the east San Francisco Bay area. The species is associated with chaparral but may occur in other vegetation communities including grassland, open woodlands, rocky slopes, and along stream corridors. Habitat is reduced by urbanization. Retention of threatened status is recommended for this species.46588:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=46588Tue, 23 Oct 2018 06:59:59 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00Form - This survey form is used by Wildlife Branch to update the peregrine falcon database.158313:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=158313Tue, 29 May 2018 11:05:13 -07002018-01-01T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - Map of Known Bald Eagle Nesting Territories 2000-2016112194:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=112194Thu, 16 Nov 2017 10:33:08 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - Table Bald Eagle Breeding Territories 1990-2016112187:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=112187Tue, 03 Oct 2017 14:37:08 -07002017-01-01T00:00:00willow flycatcher survey protocol - 147327:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=147327Wed, 19 Jul 2017 09:10:37 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00InformationalLeafletpollinator habitat, monarch butterfly breeding habitat - Guidance on how to select plant species for pollinator and monarch butterfly habitat restoration or enhancement projects146339:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=146339Tue, 20 Jun 2017 13:43:45 -07002017-05-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel genetics - Presentation of recent genetics study of Mohave ground squirrel and round-tailed ground squirrel in a contact zone.140032:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140032Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:43:19 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Preliminary proposal, with edits, for study of different methods to present bat at camera stations intended to detect Mohave ground squirrels.140031:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140031Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:39:15 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Revised agenda for the MGS TAG meeting, February 2017. 140030:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140030Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:36:03 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Meeting minutes prepared for the February meeting of the MGS Technical Advisory Group.140029:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140029Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:33:46 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - This is a draft work product of the MGS TAG. The DB Quals form may be adopted for use by CDFW in identifying biologists who are authorized to oversee MGS-related activities during implementation of projects that may impact the species.140027:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140027Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:27:31 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel, incidental take measures - This is a compilation of incidental take mitigation and minimization measures. The MGS Technical Advisory Group is reviewing previously issued ITPs in an effort to improve consistency and effectiveness of such measures for future projects.140023:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140023Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:24:53 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00Camera trapping, Mohave ground squirrel - Camera traps have been used effectively in recent years to detect Mohave ground squirrels (Xerospermophilus mohavensis). This technique has great promise as an alternative or supplement to traditional live trapping. However, there is no generally accepted methodology for use of camera traps in Mohave ground squirrel (MGS) studies. We would like to present suggestions to standardize camera trapping methods based upon our field experience since 2009. We also present other recommendations related to the more effective use of camera traps for MGS studies.140021:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140021Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:21:22 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - The Mohave ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus mohavensis) is endemic to the western Mojave Desert of California. It is listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act, yet there is little published information on its habitat requirements. We studied the diet of Mohave ground squirrels at 4 sites in desert scrub habitat in Inyo County, California, primarily by microhistological analysis of 754 samples of fecal pellets collected from live-trapped animals. Over all sites and seasons, shrub foliage was the largest component of the diet (39.8% relative density) and mainly derived from several taxa of Chenopodiaceae: winterfat (Krascheninnikovia lanata), spiny hopsage (Grayia spinosa), and saltbushes (Atriplex spp.). Forb leaves were next in importance (34.1% relative density), especially from Fabaceae (Astragalus and Lupinus), Polemoniaceae (Gilia and Linanthus), and Asteraceae. Flowers, pollen, and seeds were also major components (20.3% relative density). Leaves composed nearly all of the diet in spring, whereas pollen, flowers, and seeds made up about a third of the diet in summer. Following dry winters when annual forbs were limited, Mohave ground squirrels depended primarily on foliage from perennial shrubs and forbs. Following wet winters when spring annuals were abundant and most plant species flowered and set seed prolifically, squirrels consumed a high proportion of leaves plus flowers, pollen, and seeds of annual forbs. Mohave ground squirrels reproduced only after winter rainfall >80 mm that resulted in a standing crop of herbaceous annuals =100 kg · ha-1. Mohave ground squirrels consumed very little of the nonnative annual plant biomass present on our study sites (Erodium, Salsola, Bromus, and Schismus contributed <3% overall to the diet). Conservation implications include the following: (1) priority should be given to protecting habitats supporting preferred perennial forage plants, including winterfat and spiny hopsage; (2) habitats with an understory dominated by native annual forbs have higher value than those dominated by nonnative plants, especially annual grasses; and (3) if climate change results in lower and less regular winter precipitation, suitable habitat for Mohave ground squirrels may be reduced and fragmented in the drier portions of the geographic range.140019:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140019Fri, 24 Feb 2017 11:19:19 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00MGS, Mohave Ground Squirrel, camera trapping, bait techniques - Powerpoint presentation on comparing effectiveness (attractiveness to squirrels and ravens) of camera trap baiting methods.140014:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140014Fri, 24 Feb 2017 10:40:52 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - The Mohave ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus mohavensis) is endemic to the western Mojave Desert of California and is state-listed as “Threatened”. It is of conservation concern because of the potential for large-scale renewable energy development within its range. Although recent reports have documented current knowledge of its distribution, there are certain parts of its range where its status is unclear. In particular, there is uncertainty about its range limits in the Hinkley Valley west of the city of Barstow. Although this region has traditionally been considered to be occupied by the Mohave ground squirrel, there are recent records of the closely-related round-tailed ground squirrel (Xerospermophilus tereticaudus) here. This report assembles all available evidence from trapping surveys and from genetic analyses in an effort to clarify the distribution of these two ground squirrel species in the Hinkley Valley. An analysis of the distribution of the two ground squirrel species based upon trapping surveys confirms that there are no reliable current reports of Mohave ground squirrels in the Hinkley Valley, while there are a number of round-tailed ground squirrel records here dating back to 1977. A genetic study was carried out using 13 nuclear microsatellite loci from 55 ground squirrel samples collected in this region. The results of this analysis indicate that most of the samples represented genetically pure Mohave or round-tailed ground squirrels. However, 3 individuals collected in Hinkley Valley that were identified as round-tailed ground squirrels on the basis of external characteristics showed evidence of Mohave ground squirrel ancestry. In similar fashion, 3 animals from the desert region west of Hinkley were found to have some round-tailed ground squirrel genetic ancestry in spite of external features typical of Mohave ground squirrels. While round-tailed ground squirrels appear to be the dominant species in Hinkley Valley and Mohave ground squirrels in the desert environment to the west, hybridization does occasionally occur, at least some hybrids are fertile, and backcrossing appears to occur in both parentaldirections. It will be important to investigate this phenomenon more closely to evaluate possible threats to the genetic integrity of the threatened Mohave ground squirrel.140013:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=140013Fri, 24 Feb 2017 10:33:55 -08002017-01-01T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - This workbook contains details regarding the type of data and format that the CA/NV Golden Eagle Working Group would like to see golden eagle data reported in. 108214:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=108214Wed, 08 Feb 2017 08:43:45 -08002016-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - MGS TAG meeting agenda133648:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133648Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:49:40 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave Ground Squirrel - Presentation by Ryan Young to MGS TAG meeting of October 2016. Reviews problems with current Designated Biologist system and suggests possible remedies.133615:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133615Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:43:49 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave Ground Squirrel, Habitat Model - A brief summary of the Inman et al (2016) article on habitat modeling and climate change projections for the Mohave ground squirrel.133616:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133616Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:43:18 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave Ground Squirrel, Habitat Model - Brief report of a project that evaluated by on-the-ground evaluation of the Inman et al (2016) habitat model.133618:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133618Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:42:31 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00MGS, Mohave Ground Squirrel, Bowling Alley, DRECP - Brief presentation on MGS trapping efforts conducted or coordinated by Ed LaRue in 2016.133629:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133629Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:41:17 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave Ground Squirrel - Brief presentation to MGS TAG on presence-absence survey for MGS conducted at water pumping plant west of Pearblossom133632:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133632Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:40:34 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Brief presentation on methods and results of 2 years of camera trapping studies.133638:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133638Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:39:50 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Brief presentation to MGS TAG on variation in availability of MGS food shrub over a 27-year resurvey period and across a gradient of MGS occurrences around the Kramer Junction area.133640:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133640Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:38:55 -07002016-10-27T00:00:00Mohave Ground Squirrel - Brief presentation to MGS TAG of field trapping results from 2016.133631:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133631Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:37:48 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Action items resulting from MGS Technical Advisory Group's fall 2016 meeting.133646:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133646Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:31:35 -07002016-10-27T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 133726:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133726Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:28:06 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 133725:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133725Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:26:23 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - 133724:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133724Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:24:48 -07002016-02-24T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Brief presentation of 2015 field trapping studies of MGS.133723:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133723Fri, 04 Nov 2016 09:22:43 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Draft guidance on how to effectively deploy camera traps for presence-absence surveys for MGS. Work in progress.133651:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133651Thu, 03 Nov 2016 10:33:51 -07002016-10-27T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Draft guidance on the effective use of camera traps for monitoring MGS populations133654:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133654Thu, 03 Nov 2016 10:33:11 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Habitat model and climate change projections for MGS133657:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133657Thu, 03 Nov 2016 10:31:06 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - Initial suggestions to increasing trap-night requirement for presence-absence surveys for MGS. DRAFT for discussion purposes ONLY.133649:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133649Thu, 03 Nov 2016 10:08:59 -07002016-10-26T00:00:00Mohave ground squirrel - MGS Technical Advisory Group fall 2016 meeting notes.133643:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=133643Thu, 03 Nov 2016 09:59:01 -07002016-10-27T00:00:00ReportTricolored Blackbird - 129780:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=129780Mon, 29 Aug 2016 12:40:32 -07002009-10-21T00:00:00InformationalLeafletNongame Wildlife Program contribution - This is a general reference document to help with common questions that the public and media ask about rattlesnakes and their management and conservation. Rattlesnakes are California’s only venomous snakes. Taxonomy fluctuates, but we have approximately 46 native snake species, of which seven are rattlesnakes.If you live in snake habitat you will likely encounter snakes. You can lessen your chances of rattlesnakes residing on your property by taking the precautions identified in the sources below. Although you may legally kill or remove rattlesnakes, try to make your environment less hospitable to them instead, or the problem will likely continue.47686:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=47686Mon, 11 Jul 2016 15:57:57 -07002016-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportNongame Wildlife Program - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni)continued in 2015, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 4202-5295 California least tern breeding pairs established 5504 nests and produced 1514-1887 fledglings at 49 documented locations across California. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.29 to 0.45. Statewide, 9654 eggs were reported, with a Statewide clutch size of 1.7 eggs (St Dev = 0.26) for Type 1 sites where monitors walk within the colony. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Huntington, Point Mugu, and Alameda Point each had over 300 minimum breeding pairs, which represented 64% of the state total, and produced the most fledglings,contributing 60% of the state’s production (Table 1). Sites with greater than 35 fledglings each(the five aforementioned sites plus Mariner's Point, Hayward, Batiquitos, Bolsa Chica, and Oceano Dunes) contributed 86% of the state’s production. The 2015 statewide non-predation chick mortality rate was 18%, similar to that in 2014 (20%). With the exceptions of Camp Pendleton and Naval Base Coronado, the larger nesting colonies experienced non-predation chick mortality rates less than the average, similar to that documented in 2014. The predators known to be responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2015 were coyotes (Canis latrans), common ravens (Corvus corax), corvid species, raptor species, peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos).122436:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=122436Wed, 20 Apr 2016 08:18:50 -07002016-03-30T00:00:00PublicNoticeHumboldt marten public notice - Public notice of Humboldt marten candidacy and solicitation for information related to the status of the species121282:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=121282Tue, 15 Mar 2016 14:56:56 -07002016-03-15T00:00:00nongamedrought vulnerability of vertebrates - A rapid assessment of vulnerability of rare and endangered non-fish vertebrate taxa to extreme drought based on life history, status, and ecological factors, including recommendations.118299:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=118299Mon, 07 Mar 2016 11:08:23 -08002016-03-02T00:00:00PublicNoticeTricolored Blackbird public notice - 117538:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=117538Fri, 26 Feb 2016 11:22:37 -08002016-02-26T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116316:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116316Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:14:42 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116315:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116315Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:14:30 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116314:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116314Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:14:17 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116313:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116313Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:14:04 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116312:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116312Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:13:53 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116311:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116311Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:13:42 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116310:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116310Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:13:30 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116309:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116309Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:13:19 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act.116308:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116308Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:13:05 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - The Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared this Status Review for consideration by the Fish and Game Commission regarding the Environmental Protection Information Center's Petition to list the Northern Spotted Owl as threatened or endangered pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act. 116307:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=116307Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:12:48 -08002016-01-27T00:00:00Reportmuskrat - Six hundred and forty questionnaires were mailed to water service agencies throughout California to determine the geographical and fiscal impact of muskrat damage, and the type and effectiveness of muskrat control measures currently in use. Reported muskrat damage occurs in 28 of California’s 58 counties with a minimum annual loss of $1,000,000 reported. The leg-hold trap is the most common and effective control measure employed and is responsible for the take of 22,500 muskrats annually.111635:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=111635Tue, 17 Nov 2015 15:00:10 -08001978-07-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - Field work was conducted between March 3 and July 5, 2015 to detect, monitor, and determine the fates of the largest tricolor breeding colonies in California’s Central Valley. This report summarizes findings.110609:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=110609Wed, 21 Oct 2015 07:21:38 -07002015-10-01T00:00:00AnnualReportNongame Wildlife Program - Thirty coastal salt marshes were surveyed for state-endangered Belding’s Savannah sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi), 6 March – 1 July 2015. Belding’s Savannah sparrows exhibiting breeding behavior were detected in 27 of these wetlands from Goleta Slough in Santa Barbara County on the north to Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A minimum total of 3,740 breeding territories was detected during approximately 409 field-hours. This is the highest state total reported since counts began in 1973 and increased 11.3% from the previous high count in 2010. The Point Mugu subpopulation was again the single largest; after doubling in 2001, it increased 28.8% by 2006, held equal numbers in 2010, and increased 8.4% in 2015, comprising 30.2% of the state total. Totals exceeded 300 territories in the Seal Beach National Wildife Refuge, Bolsa Chica, and Tijuana Marsh, jointly accounting for 26% of the state total; Upper Newport Bay and Sweetwater Marsh NWR held greater than 200 territories each or 13.6% of the total; four additional wetlands held in excess of 100 territories each, 13.9% of the total. The major need of this little endangered songbird remains habitat restoration, security, and management. At least 75% of southern California’s former coastal wetlands have been lost and the remainder suffers ongoing degradation. The long term fate of a few of the occupied wetlands is still uncertain and most are affected by trespass and the side effects of so many millions of people living on their edges and in their watersheds. Counteracting these problems by rebuilding a larger habitat base, with better security, and increased management would greatly benefit a significant suite of species with which the Belding’s Savannah sparrow shares its habitat. This is a Contract Final Report (S1450015) to California Department of Fish and Wildlife, funded by the federal State Wildlife Grants Program.108716:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=108716Thu, 15 Oct 2015 21:35:52 -07002015-09-01T00:00:00AnnualReportRegional Report - Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Carpinteria Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. For the fourth year in a row the California population of the Light-footed Ridgway’s Rail exceeded 500 breeding pairs and for the first time in 40 years exceeded 600 pairs. A total of 633 pairs exhibited breeding behavior in 22 marshes in 2015. This is the highest count on record, representing an increase of 105 pairs from the breeding population detected in 2014, and 43% larger than the former high count in 2007. Eleven of the small subpopulations increased in size from the 2014 totals, by a combined total of 82 breeding pairs in 2015. The annual increases in the population total of the Light-footed Clapper Rail between 2002 and 2007 gave encouragement that restoration and management including breeding in zoological facilities were contributing to the recovery of this endangered bird. The 2008 crash was presumably weather-related and a harbinger of what could be in store if wide weather fluctuations are the future norm. Record high counts of over 500 pairs in 2012 through 2014, and of 633 pairs in 2015 is a manifestation of this subspecies’ resiliency with consistent management.109984:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=109984Tue, 13 Oct 2015 09:22:29 -07002015-10-08T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - Agenda for Golden Eagle Working Group November 4, 2015, meeting.108215:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=108215Mon, 21 Sep 2015 08:40:49 -07002015-09-21T00:00:00AnnualReportRegional Report - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns continued in 2014, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 4232-5786 California least tern breeding pairs established 6038 nests and produced 2136-2859 fledglings at 48 documented locations across California. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.37 to 0.68. Statewide, 10,827 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.7 eggs per nest (St Dev=0.29) and a Statewide clutch size of 1.8 eggs (St Dev = 0.45) for Type 1 sites where monitors walk within the colony. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Huntington Beach, Point Mugu, and Batiquitos Lagoon represented 60% of the breeding pairs. Fledgling numbers were also unevenly distributed as the sites with at least 90 fledglings each (Camp Pendleton, Alameda, Batiquitos, Huntington Beach, Point Mugu, Naval Base Coronado, and Hayward), contributed 74% of the state’s production, and the sites with greater than 35 fledglings each (including the seven aforementioned sites plus Bolsa Chica, Venice Beach, Mariner’s Point, Napa Sonoma Marsh, and Oceano Dunes), contributed 90% of the state’s production. The 2014 statewide nonpredation chick mortality rate was 20%, similar to that in 2013 (22%). With the exceptions of Camp Pendleton and Naval Base Coronado, the larger nesting colonies experienced nonpredation chick mortality rates less than the average, similar to that documented in 2013. The predators known to be responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2014 were common ravens, followed by American crows, peregrine falcons, coyotes, gull species, western meadowlarks, unknown species, corvid species, raptor species, , unknown avian species, and American kestrel). The monitoring effort of 2014 is scheduled to continue in 2015.108212:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=108212Mon, 21 Sep 2015 08:28:00 -07002015-09-11T00:00:00Take avoidance of Tricolored Blackbirds - 99310:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=99310Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:07:59 -07002015-03-20T00:00:00AgendaNongame Wildlife Program - Agenda for teh January 13, 2015, CA-NV Golden Eagle Working Groug, Research Subgroup meeting.92799:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=92799Wed, 07 Jan 2015 11:54:38 -08002015-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - This report presents a synthesis of scientific literature and expertise regarding the mountain yellowlegged frog complex in the Sierra Nevada, which is now comprised of two species, Rana muscosaand R. sierrae. These species, which inhabit largely higher-elevation (> 1,219 m [> 4,000 ft.]) aquatic habitats of the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and Nevada, were historically abundant. It is estimated that these frogs have been extirpated over the majority (> 92 percent) of their geographic ranges, with many of the remaining populations depleted. Depletions and extirpations, first recognized during the 1970s, have accelerated markedly since the 1990s. The realization that these patterns would rapidly place these species at risk of extinction led to a multi-agency effort to develop a Conservation Strategy focused on the recovery of mountain yellow-legged frogs in the Sierra Nevada. This Conservation Assessment is the first step toward development of the Conservation Strategy and consists of three integral parts: 1) a description of mountain yellow-legged frog ecology in the Sierra Nevada to determine conditions necessary to provide for viable populations; 2) a review of the distribution and abundance of mountain yellow-legged frogs over their Sierran geographic range to describe the risk; and 3) an evaluation of 17 risk factor categories to identify which of these may constitute the greatest risk to mountain yellow-legged frogs and their habitat in the Sierra Nevada.91197:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=91197Fri, 14 Nov 2014 16:12:23 -08002014-07-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2013, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 4353-5561 California least tern breeding pairs established 5894 nests and produced 1399-1634 fledglings at 56 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.25 to 0.38. Statewide, 9,366 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.6 eggs per nest (St Dev=0.16) and a Statewide clutch size of 1.6 eggs (St Dev = 0.04) for Type 1 sites where monitors walk within the colony. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Batiquitos Lagoon, and Huntington State Beach represented over half of the breeding pairs. Fledgling numbers were also unevenly distributed as the six sites with at least 90 fledglings each (Alameda Point, Naval Base Coronado, Camp Pendleton, Hayward Regional Shoreline, Batiquitos Lagoon, and Huntington State Beach), contributed 67% of the state’s production, and the sites with greater than 35 fledglings each (including the six aforementioned sites plus Seal Beach, Tijuana Estuary, and Oceano Dunes), contributed 82% of the state’s production. The 2013 statewide non-predation chick mortality rate was 22%, much less than that in 2012 (49%) and a reverse in the upward trend observed in the previous five years. With the exceptions of Batiquitos Lagoon and Camp Pendleton, the larger nesting colonies experienced non-predation chick mortality rates less than the average, similar to that documented in 2012. The predators known to be responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2013 were common ravens (Corvus corax), peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), unknown gull spp., domestic cats (Felis catus), American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), American kestrels (Falco sparverius), coyotes (Canis latrans), great horned owls (Bubo virginianus), northern harriers (Circus cyaneus), unknown avian spp., unknown spp., Cooper's hawks (Accipiter cooperii), and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis). The monitoring effort of 2013 is scheduled to continue in 2014.91194:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=91194Fri, 14 Nov 2014 16:02:30 -08002014-11-07T00:00:00Nongame Wildlife Program - The thirty-fifth annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted from 12 February to 12 July 2014. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Carpinteria Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. For the third year in a row the California population of the Light-footed Clapper Rail exceeded 500 breeding pairs. A total of 528 pairs exhibited breeding behavior in 21 marshes in 2014. This is the highest count on record, representing an increase of three pairs from the breeding population detected in 2013, and 19.2% larger than the former high count in 2007. 90600:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=90600Wed, 29 Oct 2014 14:42:30 -07002014-10-15T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program - Here we report on monitoring, research, and community outreach activities performed by the Los Angeles County Snowy Plover Research Team between Fall 2012 and Spring 2014. From Fall 2011 to Spring 2014, project biologists and volunteers conducted county-wide surveys of all suitable roosting habitat in March, May, September and January. Project biologists conducted surveys of just the main roost sites and nearby beaches in February, April, June, August, October, November, and December. The January and May surveys corresponded to the USFWS’ winter and breeding season window surveys. From 2012 to 2014 the population of Snowy Plovers in coastal Los Angeles County (LAC) has declined from a peak of 326 in 2012 to just 251 in 2014. LAC supports 23% of Recovery Unit 6 (RU-6) and 6% of the range-wide nonbreeding Snowy Plovers. Non-breeding Snowy Plovers have increased on Orange County (OC)Beaches over the past 11 year span, but inconsistent efforts at all beaches make it difficult to provide total numbers present countywide, with the exception of this year. OC supports 23% of RU-6 and 6% of the range-wide non-breeding Snowy Plovers. The average size of daily Snowy Plover winter roosts is 73.0 m (239 ft) long, 27.7 m (90.9 ft) wide, and covers an area of 0.29 hectares (ha) (0.71 acres [ac]) (SE = 0.01). On average, over the course of a year, the Snowy Plovers used an area 238.6 m (782 ft) long by 90.2 m (296 ft) wide. We recommend that these areas be considered as Special Protection Zones for the non-breeding Snowy Plovers.90059:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=90059Mon, 13 Oct 2014 12:10:26 -07002014-07-10T00:00:00ReportRegional Report - The primary goal of this project was to use captive breeding techniques to increase numbers of the endangered pacific pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus), 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. 89283:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=89283Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:39:35 -07002014-06-11T00:00:00ReportRegional Report - This report contains a suite of analyses designed to address two tasks: (1) identify least tern population trends and drivers of those trends, and (2) evaluate current monitoring and management practices. 89282:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=89282Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:34:20 -07002014-06-30T00:00:00Final Status Review - 76664:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=76664Wed, 09 Apr 2014 15:26:44 -07002014-02-05T00:00:00nongameNongame Wildlife Program - 76637:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=76637Wed, 05 Feb 2014 09:00:40 -08002014-02-05T00:00:00nongameNongame Wildlife Program - 76636:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=76636Wed, 05 Feb 2014 08:57:00 -08002014-02-05T00:00:00Martes_pennantiMartes pennanti - 62595:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=62595Tue, 26 Mar 2013 16:41:01 -07002013-03-26T00:00:00Canis_lupisCanis lupus - 59451:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=59451Mon, 11 Feb 2013 12:02:24 -08002013-02-08T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for burrowing owl documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10405:6https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10405Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:06:50 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-12 - In 2004, the Santa Cruz Island fox (Urocyon littoralis santacruzae) was listed as endangered by the federal government following devastating predation rates by golden eagles in the 1990s and early 2000s. 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 grant was administered by the Department of Fish and Game which supported island fox conservation on Santa Cruz Island in 2009-2011. Using these funds, the Nature Conservancy conducted island-wide census trapping, survival monitoring of a collared sub-sample, and disease management for the purpose of monitoring the recovery of the Santa Cruz Island fox. Golden eagle monitoring and trapping operations were conducted to mitigate predation threats as needed. Educational materials on the island fox were prepared and distributed to the public. Island-wide census trapping was conducted using the ladder grid configuration. Consistent with the protocol, the first three to four non-pup foxes captured in ladder grids were radio-collared for survival monitoring. Ten young, unvaccinated foxes were collared throughout the island and served as “disease sentinels”, blood samples were taken for disease research. Following the recommendations by the veterinarian group, 100-150 foxes were vaccinated each year against rabies and canine distemper viruses within two core areas on the island (the central valley and isthmus) during ladder grid and roadside trapping. Island fox populations maintained a growth rate of ?= 1.1 during the term of the grant. The estimated fox population after the 2011 trapping regime was 1,350 foxes, and the population ended the grant period with an annual survival rate of 87.8% (SE=0.01). It is recommended that annual population censuses and survival monitoring continue, as well as monitoring for golden eagles, vaccination against the most virulent of mainland diseases, and expansion of university sponsored research on the impacts of interspecific competition and climate change on island foxes. 46033:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=46033Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:05:15 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-08 - A survey to locate breeding populations and identify habitat requirements of the California yellow-billed cuckoo was conducted in California from June through August 1977. One hundred forty-one cuckoos were found along the Sacramento, Feather, South Fork of the Kern, Santa Ana, Amargosa, and Colorado rivers, and in the Owens Valley. Most occupied sites were characterized by willows, dense low-level or understory foliage, high humidity, and suitable foraging habitat in excess of 300 feet in width and 25 acres in extent. Published literature and museum records were researched to document historical occurrence of the yellow-billed cuckoo in the state.45659:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=45659Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:58:06 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-15 - The Department of Fish and Game reviewed a petition received from the Center for Biological Diversity to list all populations of the mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa and Rana sierrae) as endangered under the California Endangered Species Act. The Department prepared this petition evaluation report based on a review of the petition and interviews with knowledgeable individuals and determined that there was sufficient information to indicate the petitioned action may be warranted. The Department recommended that the Commission accept the petition and advance the mountain yellow-legged frog to candidacy for listing.44996:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=44996Mon, 02 Apr 2012 12:53:43 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-06 - In 1995, a minimum of approximately 2,585-2,611 pairs of the endangered California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni) nested at 37 sites along the coast of California. This 7% decrease in breeding population size from 1994 brings to an end the trend since 1987 of continued growth of the population, and is likely attributable, at least in part, to the poor fledgling production experienced statewide in 1992. In addition to the drop in pair numbers, heavy predation pressure at many sites, an apparent shortage of food at two large sites, and a heavy storm in mid-June across the State, combined with a variety of human-related constraints on tern reproductive success, resulted in the lowest statewide fledgling-to-pair ratio recorded since fledgling production estimates were incorporated into monitoring protocol (1978). A minimum of approximately 963-1,174 fledglings was produced, 41% fewer than in 1994, resulting in a statewide fledgling per pair ratio of 0.37-0.45.2921:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2921Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:39:07 -08001997-01-01T00:00:00PresentationSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-12 - Since 1900, six animals have become extinct in California and 24 native forms are endangered and facing extinction. The Department of Fish and Game is reviewing a list of animals whose status is unknown. Legislation in California directed the Department to inventory California's threatened fish and wildlife and report to the Governor and Legislature on their status. Authority to designate endangered and rare species is given to the Fish and Game Commission. California's statute is corollary to the Federal Endangered Species Preservation Act and the Endangered Species Conservation Act of December, 1969. Historically, agencies responsible for administration of all wildlife have been largely oriented towards game species management and to those who make appropriate use of these resources. Little has been done for nongame wildlife in terms of research or management. 40965:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40965Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:58:35 -08001971-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-05 - The Department of Fish and Game reported on the status of endangered and rare vertebrate species listed under the California Endangered Species Act. 42583:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42583Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:29:50 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 76-05 - The Department of Fish and Game reported on the status of vertebrate species listed as rare or endangered under California's Endangered Species Act.42582:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42582Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:26:49 -08001976-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-13 - The Department's second biennial report on the status of California's rare and endangered species revealed the status of 49 listed vertebrate species. 42581:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42581Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:22:21 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-14 - Historically, purple martins (Progne subis arboricola) were locally distributed and generally uncommon in California. Indications of possible population declines and a limited amount of information and understanding about habitat requirements prompted the California Department of Fish and Game to initiate a study of purple martins. The author conducted a comprehensive review of purple martin distribution and status within California, as well as limited field surveys and observations of habitat associations. Purple martins still persist locally throughout most of their historical range in California, but have apparently declined in most regions in the state, mostly in lowland areas but also in some forested areas of southwestern California, Sierra Nevada, and central western California, and possibly in other regions; there is no evidence of population increases in the state except possibly Sacramento. Populations are largest in the coastal forests north of San Francisco Bay, but there are significant local populations in Sacramento and the Tehachapi Range. The number of purple martins at all known breeding sites was approximately 350 pairs, but the total population in California was estimated to be 800-1000 (range 630-1740) pairs. Martins use a variety of nest substrates including concrete hollow-box bridges, a design in use since the early 1960s. However, most martins still nest in trees in relatively open spaces and most often use very large diameter snags. Large snags supported significantly larger colonies, a factor which may be important in determining persistence in an area. Both the relative scarcity and reduced density of large snags appears to be limiting both their breeding population size and distribution within California. Habitat management and population monitoring are needed for purple martin conservation in California; there also appears to be excellent opportunities to manage martins locally using human-provided nest sites. Results of this study are consistent with concurrent observations in Oregon, and are likely to apply to the remaining purple martin populations of the Pacific coast and Intermountain west.42391:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42391Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:13:46 -08001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 76-06 - Forty-two known or active peregrine falcon nesting locations were visited during 1975 and 1976. Peregrines were present at nine sites in 1975 and 13 in 1976. In 1975, seven pairs fledged 14 young or 2.0 young per pair. In 1976, nine pairs produced 14 young or 1.6 young per pair. These data are considered normal production rates for peregrines. The known active eyries are widely distributed throughout California and are considered a remnant of the historic population which has undergone severe decline since the 1940s. This decline is attributed to contamination by chloronated hydrocarbon pesticides (DDT) and loss of habitat through urbanization, agricultural practices and watershed management programs.42281:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42281Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:46:24 -08001976-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 75-13 - Thirty known or suspected active peregrine falcon eyries in California were visited during 1975. Pairs were present at eight of these sites. A single adult was observed at an additional site. Fourteen young were fledged at six sites; two additional sites failed to produce. A mean of 2.33 young fledged per eyrie with young and 1.75 young per pair observed. This is considered normal productivity rate for peregrines. The known active eyries are widely distributed: 5 in the coast ranges, 2 along the coast, and one in the Cascade range. Prairie falcons (F. mexicanus) were found at 10 sites historically used by peregrines.3532:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3532Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:24:08 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 73-02 - Two hundred and eighteen prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus) territories were observed throughout California during 1969-1972. Active prairie falcon eyries were widely distributed geographically in California; however, occupancy of traditional territories around the perimeter of the Central Valley was extremely low. Regionally, the prairie falcon has maintained local centers of successful production and in some instances, at near historic nesting densities. Local centers of successful production were characterized by faunal diversity and relatively high densities of prey species.3540:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3540Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:56:45 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-11 - A tissue culture procedure for karyotype analysis of feather pulp of vultures was developed. Culture of feather pulp provides improved chromosome morphology, increased numbers of cells blocked in metaphase, and a reserve supply of growing tissue to insure successful chromosome preparations. A long-term study of repeated laparoscopic examination of turkey vultures was carried out to assess the extent of surgical trauma and healing time required after sexing birds by laparoscopy. Turkey vultures healed completely within eight days without evidence of visceral adhesions or inflammation of air sacs. The extensive connective and adipose tissue surrounding the viscera of vultures made observation of the gonads difficult. Successful viewing of the gonad during repeated laparoscopy of the same seven vultures was accomplished on only 45% of attempts.42077:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42077Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:12:41 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-13 - A study of the problem of feral dog impacts to wildlife and livestock was undertaken as a result of Assembly Bill 1763 (Wornum). This bill required the Department to assess the problem and report back to the Legislature with recommended solutions. A questionaire was developed and distributed widely throughout the state.41881:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41881Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:36:28 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-22 - The primary objective of the captive raptor breeding program was to develop techniques by which self-sustaining captive populations of raptors were to be maintained for the re-establishment of endangered or rare species to the wild. Additional goals included the use of birds for scientific, educational and recreational purposes. Summary results of the 1982 reporting period were provided. 42055:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42055Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:24:15 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-23 - The primary objective of the captive raptor breeding program was to develop techniques by which self-sustaining captive populations of raptors could be maintained for the re-establishment of endangered or rare species to the wild. Additional goals included the use of birds for scientific, educational and recreational purposes. Summary results of the 1981 reporting period were provided. 42054:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42054Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:22:06 -08001981-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-26 - During May and June of 1980, a survey was conducted to obtain information on nest site activity and reproductive output of prairie falcons in California. Surveys were conducted in four major geographic areas of the state: desert, Central Coast, Great Basin, and Sierra Nevada. A total of 189 territories was visited. Of these, 101 (60.5%) were active. Of the active sites, 70 (69%) apparently were productive. Number of young produced by successful pairs averaged as follows: desert-2.8; Central Coast-3.8; Great Basin-2.3; statewide 3.1. The Sierra Nevada was not adequately sampled. 42051:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42051Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:03:53 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 83-08 - During the reporting period, information on the breeding activities of Swainson’s hawk and osprey was gathered and entered into the diurnal raptor files. A total of 70 Swainson’s hawk territories was visited; 42 were active. Five fresh Swainson’s hawk eggs were collected and tested for pesticide contamination. No significant levels of organochlorides or PCBs were detected; eggshell thickness was normal. A sample of 20 osprey territories was monitored at Lake Almanor, northern California.42047:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42047Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:53:46 -08001983-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-23 - During the reporting period, information on the breeding activities of Swainson’s hawk, goshawk, and osprey was gathered and entered into the diurnal raptor files. Surveys were also conducted on California condors, bald eagle and American peregrine falcon. A total of 90 Swainson’s hawk territories was visited; 51 were active. Information on 200 goshawks was received. A significant sample of ospreys was monitored in northern California42045:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42045Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:51:50 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-23 - The 1980 raptor population survey included 35 winter routes with a total of 1415.9 miles traveled and 32 summer routes with a total of 1385.1 miles traveled. During the winter survey, 17 species were observed with an average of 205.0 birds per 100 miles traveled. The spring survey included 13 species with an average of 94 birds observed per 100 miles traveled. As in previous years, the red-tailed hawk, turkey vulture and the American kestrel were the most frequently observed raptors.42036:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42036Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:03:55 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-11 - The 1973 raptor population survey included 41 routes with at total of 6,184 raptor sightings of 16 species, averaging 121.6 birds per 100 miles traveled.42035:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42035Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:55:39 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-14 - A total of 9662 sightings of 19 species of raptors was recorded during the reporting period; 426 nests of 8 species were recorded. The raptor reporting survey was phased out in 1971.42034:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=42034Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:49:00 -08001972-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-14 - A total of 3682 sightings of 13 species of raptors was recorded during the reporting period; 108 nests were recorded. The raptor survey was phased out and replaced with a more comprehensive raptor monitoring program in 1970-71.41978:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41978Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:44:51 -08001970-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-13 - A raptor reporting program begun by the Department in 1966 was continued. A total of 3,906 sightings of 13 species of raptors was reported. 41976:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41976Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:40:18 -08001970-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 68-01 - A special wildlife observation reporting program was established by the Department of Fish and Game in 1966. Several bird species considered to be rare or endangered were selected for the program. A total of 1868 observations of these species was logged along with reports of nests. Special wildlife species included California condor, white-tailed kite, merlin [pigeon hawk], goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, Swainson's hawk, rough-legged hawk, ferruginous hawk, golden eagle, bald eagle, osprey, peregrine falcon, prairie falcon, and pileated woodpecker. 41973:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41973Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:35:00 -08001968-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-06 - Life history information, habitat requirements and threats to the peregrine falcon in California was presented. The Department of Fish and Game recognized that the peregrine falcon was decining in California and initiated a special investigation of the status of the species in the state.41969:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41969Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:24:07 -08001970-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-04 - The 1982 raptor population survey included 37 winter routes with a total of 1622.2 miles traveled and 38 spring routes with a total of 1649.7 miles traveled. During the winter survey, 17 species were observed with an average of 214.0 birds per 100 miles traveled. The spring survey included 16 species with an average of 92.1 birds observed per 100 miles traveled. The total birds per 100 miles traveled for both winter and spring surveys was 152.5, higher than any previous raptor survey. As in previous years, the turkey vulture, red-tailed hawk,and the American kestrel were the most frequently observed raptors.41966:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41966Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:09 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-02 - Intensive surveys for Swainson's hawks were conducted on four 36 square mile areas plus a survey of the riparian habitat along the Sacramento River. Additional data were gathered from cooperators in the Central Valley, Great Basin and Butte Valley, Siskiyou County. Two hundred thirty eight Swainson's hawk territories were visited; of these, 192 were active. Other raptor data were gathered during the course of the study.41952:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41952Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:15:20 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-14 - Historically, badgers (Taxidea taxus) were found throughout California except in the humid forested region of the extreme northwestern part of the state. The species was included on the Department of Fish and Game’s list of Mammalian Species of Special Concern due to an apparent substantial reduction in range and abundance. Information on the current distribution of the badger was collected from sighting reports from licensed trappers, federal animal control personnel in each county, and state and federal agency field biologists. Observers reported badgers at 521 locations in California, mainly during the 1970s and 1980s. Current data indicate that badgers are still distributed throughout their historic range but not evenly so. Badger abundance was greatest in the northeastern region and along the south coastal area; a moderate number occur in the southeastern deserts, on the east side of the southern Sierra Nevada, and in the southernmost portion of the San Joaquin Valley. The fewest reports of badgers were reported from the mid-Central Valley region with moderately low numbers of reports from the northern Coast Range. 3028:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3028Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:07:19 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-06 - The Department studied the current distribution, abundance and habitat requirements of the red tree vole and fisher, species of special concern in California. 41946:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41946Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:45:27 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-24 - The California Department of Fish and Game funded this study to estimate distribution, density, and occupancy of known, historic territories for two populations of California spotted owls occurring on Mt. San Jacinto and Palomar Mountain, southern California. Spotted owls on Mt. San Jacinto were well-distributed throughout upper elevation forested habitats. Thirty-two spotted owls were found and banded on Mt. San Jacinto. In contrast, owl distribution appeared to be affected by recent fires on Palomar Mountain. Twelve owls were banded and an additional nine adult and subadult birds and three juveniles were observed but not captured on Palomar. While the crude density estimate for Mt. San Jacinto was similar to other density estimates for spotted owls, the estimates for Palomar Mountain were more than double the crude densities reported in other parts of California. 41933:7https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41933Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:37:52 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 88-08 - The current distribution of the osprey in California was studied and compared to the 1975 population. Distribution was similar in the northern, western and central portions of the species' range in California. The Sierra Nevada range expanded to more completely cover the area from Lake Almanor south to Lake Isabella; in 1975 by contrast, two areas with two pairs were known. In 1986-87, 10 areas were found to maintain 20 pairs of ospreys. Reproductive rates in three of four main population centers in northern California have generally been above theoretical maintenance levels and have stable or increasing local populations.41941:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41941Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:10:18 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-11 - The entire range of Stephens' kangaroo rat, excluding military installations and certain private properties, was surveyed to determine the distribution of this threatened species. A total of 132 known or potential population sites was identified. Of the 77 previously known populations, 45 were extirpated. Of the 47 new populations found, 6 of these were recently extirpated. Eight potential sites were indentified. Trace and low abundance was found at 813 areas whereas only 2 sites had high abundance. Occupied areas tended to be small; 68 sites were <100 acres and only 8 sites were >1000 acres. Habitat consisted of non-native grassland dominated by herbaceous annuals, predominantly red-stemmed filaree. Some areas contained sparse elements of sage scrub with cover <30%. Soils and slopes were variable. Dirt roads appeared to serve as refuges and movement corridors.41938:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41938Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:59:20 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 90-05 - Twelve light-footed clapper rails were captured at Mugu Lagoon in 819 trap hours for a success rate of 0.8 rails per 5 hour effort with 15 traps set. Ten rails were fitted with backpack radio transmitters. Telemetry studies began on 28 Aug 1989; nearly 700 location points were logged in 60 days of tracking. Mortality was documented for 5 of the telemetered rails. Eight active nest sites of 6 breeding pairs were found. Of these, 71 eggs were produced with a mean clutch size of 8.9. Two nests failed. The mean number of eggs pipped per successful nest was 5.2. The pipping success rate was 44% for eggs in active nests. Cracked, dimpled and crushed eggs were found in 6 of the active nests. Contaminant analysis of these addled eggs suggested elevated levels of DDT, DDE, and PCBs. 41927:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41927Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:28:23 -08001990-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-22 - A sample of known golden eagle nest sites was visited to determine status of the breeding population in California. Eyries were checked for activity and productivity by Department biologists and cooperators during spring and summer of 1985. Of the 101 nest sites surveyed, 51 (51.5%) were active. Productivity data were obtained at 22 nest sites. Thirty young were produced for an average of 1.36 young per active territory. Only two nests were known to have failed. 41902:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41902Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:15:42 -08001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-21 - Progress was made on three major projects during the reporting period (July 1984-June 1985). A report on the status of Colorado River riparian obligate bird species was completed and resulted in the preparation by Department staff of a petition to list the Gila woodpecker, gilded flicker, vermilion flycatcher, Sonora yellow warbler and summer tanager as endangered and brown-crested flycatcher, yellow-breasted chat, and northern cardinal as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). New work was begun on the status of the willow flycatcher. A total of 105 breeding territories was detected on public and private land. Cattle grazing appeared to be a significant habitat threat throughout the species' range. Willow flycatcher was considered for listing under CESA. Initial studies of bank swallow, black swift and purple martin were undertaken.41901:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41901Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:07:43 -08001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-06 - Data gathered on the raptor populations survey during the period of July 1985 through June 1986 showed results similar to 1984. However, insufficient data were gathered to permit meaningful analysis. As in past years, the three top species in order of abundance were red-tailed hawk, turkey vulture and American kestrel. Monitoring Swainson's hawks consisted of an intensive survey of four-36 square mile study areas and a survey of the Sacramento River riparian system. In addition, a study of habitat utilization of the Central Valley population of Swainson's hawks was begun in 1986. Using radiotelemetry, data were gathered on home range size and foraging activities. Additional data on diet composition, prey abundance and availability, nesting ecology, and land use was also collected. A total of 162 Swainson's hawk territories was visited; 139 were active. The number of known and active territories wss higher in 1986 due to the degree of survey intensity and did not represent an increasing population. Thirty-six osprey territories were monitored in the Lake Almanor area of northern California. Results indicated the population continued a positive trajectory. 41898:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41898Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:53:15 -08001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-14 - The 1984 raptor population survey included 34 winter routes with at total of 1,434 miles traveled and 28 spring routes totaling 1,261 miles. During the winter survey, 15 species were observed with an average of 219.8 birds per 100 miles traveled, including 7.3 birds per 100 miles traveled that were unidentified. The spring survey included 12 species with an average of 114.6 bird per 100 miles, including 2.4 birds per 100 miles that were unidentified. The combined total for all surveys was 170.6 birds per 100 miles, the highest of any previous raptor survey. As in previous years, the most frequently detected species were red-tailed hawk, turkey vulture and American kestrel.41892:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41892Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:38:15 -08001984-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 87-15 - Seventy-four northern harrier nests were found at Grizzly Island Wildlife Area (WA) during the spring of 1987. Elsewhere in the state, 12 nests were found at Mendota WA, 2 were found at Ash Creek WA, 8 were found at Honey Lake WA, and 10 were found at Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge. Nests and harriers were found during the course of surveying both managed and unmanaged upland habitats for waterfowl nests. The density of nesting northern harriers at Grizzly Island in spring 1987 was 12.5 nests per 100 acres in managed fields and 8.2 nests per 100 acres in unmanaged fields. Extrapolating based on a total of 4,000 acres of upland habitat, the estimated density of northern harrier nests was 8.6 per 100 acres or 345 possible nests. Upland management appeared to increase rodent populations, particularly California vole and harvest mouse. Harriers appeared to be somewhat opportunistic in their breeding behavior and able to take advantage of high prey abundance and new nesting habitat. 41888:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41888Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:05:45 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-01 - From July 1983 through June 1984, information on nesting populations, habitat quality and competitive relationships of Swainson's hawks was gathered and added to the diurnal raptor eyrie files. Also included was information on the breeding activities of ospreys. Insufficient data were gathered on Swainson's hawk productivity. A total of 84 Swainson's hawk territories was visited; 64 of these were active. The number of known and active territories has increased in 1984; however, this does not represent an increasing population, but instead reflects the degree of survey intensity. Habitat destruction continued to be a major threat to the Swainson's hawk. Certain agricultural practices provided unsuitable hunting habitat and decreased prey populations while nesting habitat was threatened by diminishing riparian areas. Also, competition with other stick-nest-building raptors may be significant enough to reduce Swainson's hawks in the future. Thirty-six osprey territories were monitored in the Lake Almanor area of northern California. Results showed an improving population trend with reproductive rate more than twice as high as that measured in the 1970s.41886:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41886Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:33:24 -08001984-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-02 - The distribution, ecology, life history, and harvest of the marten in California was summarized.41885:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41885Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:20:01 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-29 - The study examined the distribution and population biology of the salt marsh harvest mouse in the Alviso sector of the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The degree to which this species moves between habitat patches was studied. The reporting period was July, 1976 to May, 1977.41884:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41884Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:15:58 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-27 - A survey to define total occupied habitat and to determine aspects of the population biology of the endangered Morro Bay kangaroo rat was conducted from January to August, 1977. Areas with previous kangaroo rat activity in the restricted range south of Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County, were examined. A total live-trapping effort of 2542 trap-nights yielded a population estimate of between 1,500 to 2,000 animals on a total 1/2 square mile range, in a series of discontinuous populations. Kangaroo rats were most active from March to late July. The total occupied habitat has continued to decline since 1958 as has the total population estimate.41882:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41882Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:08:15 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-12 - A survey of the Santa Catalina island fox was conducted during July and August, 1975. Trapping effort covered 55 linear miles with 514 trap periods yielding 55 foxes. Fox distribution and condition suggested the Catalina subspecies was not endangered at that time.41878:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41878Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:49:11 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-21 - Swainson's hawk biology, movement and habitat-use were examined during 1986 and 1987 breeding seasons. Thirty different land-uses or crop-types were identified for the total study area. Croplands made up 45.4% of the area, and pasturelands made up 26.8%. The remaining lands (27.8%) were in various other uses. Sixty active Swainson's hawk nests were located on all areas studied during the two years of field work. Breeding density ranged from 0.796 pairs/sq km to 1.446 pairs/sq km. Nearest neighbor distances averaged 1.14 km. Territory reoccupancy was 97%. reproductive effort was low both years. Diet in terms of biomass consisted of 23.1% microtine rodents, 69.2% of the total mammalian prey. Birds were an important dietary component, comprising 49.8% of the total prey biomass.The mean home range size of 12 radio-tagged Swainson's hawks was 2760.4 ha. Males averaged 46.1% larger home ranges than females. Cropping patterns, changes in prey availability and various farming practices were largely responsible for differences in home range size and seasonal and daily fluctuation of foraging ranges. Swainson's hawks preferred foraging cover types such as dryland pasture and alfalfa. Certain row crops were selected during harvest due to the sudden increase in prey availabilities and higher prey densities. 4019:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4019Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:21:53 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00PublicNoticePublic notice - Pursuant to Section 2074.4 of the California Fish and Game Code (FGC), NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 15, 2011, the California Fish and Game Commission accepted for consideration the petition submitted to list the black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus) as threatened or endangered (Section 670.1, 670.5, Title 14, California Code of Regulations). The California Endangered Species Act (FGC, Chapter 1.5, Section 2050 et seq.) requires that the Department of Fish and Game notify affected and interested parties that the Commission has accepted the petition for the purpose of receiving information and comments that will aid in evaluating the petition and determining whether or not the above proposal should be adopted or rejected by the Commission. The Commission’s December 15, 2011 action has resulted in this species receiving the interim designation of “candidate for listing”, effective January 6, 2012, under the California Endangered Species Act. The Department has 12 months to review the petition, evaluate the available information, and report back to the Commission whether or not the petitioned action is warranted (FGC 2074.6). The Department’s recommendation must be based on the best scientific information available to the Department. 41014:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=41014Wed, 01 Feb 2012 07:59:17 -08002012-01-13T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-29 - A summary of the raptor-related activities undertaken by the Department in 1977-1978 was prepared. Results of the prairie falcon monitoring work, captive raptor breeding program, elf owl survey, and raptor management planning were reported. 40957:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40957Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:52:42 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-23 - The objectives of California's raptor management plan are as follows: 1) maintain and, in some cases, enhance raptor populations and their habitats in California; 2) improve knowledge of the biology and ecology of raptors; 3) increase public awareness and appreciation of raptors through educational programs; and, 4) provide for diversified use where it can be demonstrated that such use does not pose a threat to raptor resources.40956:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40956Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:25:56 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 75-11 - Presence of the San Joaquin kit fox was confirmed in 14 counties in California. The population was estimated at 10,000 adult individuals with a maximum of 14,800 adults. Critical habitat areas were identified.40955:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40955Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:13:48 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-13 - A study was conducted to determine the population size and distribution, nesting ecology and impacts of land use practices on bank swallow breeding colonies on the Sacramento River and its major tributaries, May to August 1986. At randomly selected sites, nesting data were collected and habitat parameters were measured. Birds were banded to determine nest site fidelity and movements. We located approximately 16,149 breeding pairs of bank swallows occupying 60 colonies on the Sacramento River. This may represent about 80% of the known State population. Two colonies were found on the major tributaries examined from their confulence to 8 km (5 mi) upstream. Colonies were located on nearly vertical river banks. Bank swallows occupied about 56% of the burrows present in a particular colony. Burrows were found primatirly in silty loam to sandy loam soils. Nesting habitat destruction represents the greatest threat to the Sacramento River bank swallow population. Federal and State-sponsored rip-rapping and bank stabilization projects, if completed as proposed, would destroy the nesting habitat of 8,935 breeding pairs (55%) in the next 5 to 10 years. An additional 1,064 pairs (7%) may be adversely affected by nearby construction activities. Management recommendations include listing the bank swallow as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act, protection of bank swallow populations and their riverine bank habitat, and conducting further research to determine the statewide distribution and status of the species.18255:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=18255Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:51:56 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-09 - Field surveys were conducted on Camp Roberts and Fort Hunter Liggett and the San Antonio and Big Sandy Units of the Big Sandy Wildlife Area from 18 May through 15 August 1987 to determine presence of least Bell's vireo, yellow-billed cuckoo, and willow flycatcher. None of the species was encountered during six surveys. All other riparian forest bird species were exceptionally low in numbers, possibly due to extremely dry winter of 1986-87. Other potential reasons for absence of vireos and flycatchers were assessed including the presence of brown-headed cowbirds, habitat quality, and food scarcity. 31415:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=31415Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:51:34 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-18 - The report documents an intensive effort to determine the status of the marbled murrelet at inland sites in California. Murrelets are seabirds, known to nest in old and mature coastal forests in the northern half of the state and little is known of their ecology away from the ocean. A total of 283 morning counts were conducted on 127 transects with murrelets detected on 53% of the transects. In addition, stationary counts were conducted on 37 mornings and 31 evenings. Eighty percent of the murrelet detections were from 30 minutes before to 30 minutes after sunrise. About 25% of the detections were visual, the rest auditory. Bird distribution was patchy and restricted to old-growth redwood forests in Del Norte, Humboldt, San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties. No birds were detected in Mendocino, Sonoma, and Marin counties; one possible detection in Mendocino could not be verified. Areas with relatively high detection rates included: Jedediah Smith State Park, Redwood Experimental Forest, Prairie Creek State Park, Redwood Creek drainage and Lost Man Creek drainage of Redwood National Park, Pacific Lumber Company lands northeast of Carlotta, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Butano State Park, Portola State Park, and Big Basin State Park. The farthest inland tht murrelets were detected was Grizzly Creek State Park, 39 km from the ocean.31430:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=31430Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:51:23 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-23 - The San Joaquin antelope squirrel is confined to arid, open habitats in the San Joaquin Valley. Loss of habitat to agricultural developments, urbanization, and petroleum extraction are the principal factors threatening the species. Use of rodenticides for control of ground squirrels has been a long-standing practice in California and has probably contributed to the overall decline of the species. The greatest single threat to San Joaquin antelope squirrels throughout much of their remaining geographic range may be the long-term effects of excessive grazing by livestock. The goals of this project are twofold: 1) continue research on the Elkhorn Plain Ecological Reserve (San Luis Obispo County) to develop population information on San Joaquin antelope squirrels, other listed fauna and their associated vertebrate species and their response to grazing; and, 2)establish methods for inventory of San Joaquin antelope squirrel and determine population densities at different sites with a range of plant communities.31437:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=31437Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:51:13 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-24 - The ninth consecutive annual census of the endangered light-footed clapper rail revealed 177 pairs of clapper rails in 14 marshes in southern California. One hundred and sixteen pairs, or 65.5% 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. High tide counts were continued on the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge and tabulated for 1975 therough 1988. Ten and 6 clapper rails, respectively, were sighted during two winter counts in 1988. Call counts in Baja California, Mexico revealed a minimum of 75 clapper rail territories in El Estero and 119 in San Quintin. 19981:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=19981Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:50:57 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ListingPetitionNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-28 - The Department of Fish and Game petitioned the California Fish and Game Commission to list the Tipton kangaroo rat as an endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act. The Tipton kangaroo rat was described as threatened by continuing loss of native habitat primarily due to agricultural and other development as well as rodenticide poisoning. Habitat destruction resulted in precipitous population declines and severe range reduction. The Tipton kangaroo rat is endemic to California's San Joaquin Valley. 24235:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24235Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:50:34 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-29 - On July, 19, 1988, the Department of Fish and Game (Department) submitted a petition to the California Fish and Game Commission (Commission) to list the bank swallow as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act. The Commission accepted the petition and advanced the species to candidate status. The Department prepared an evaluation of the petition and found the petitioned action was warranted due to population decline, range contraction and habitat destruction. The Department recommended the bank swallow be given threatened status by the Commission. 24228:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24228Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:50:21 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 90-04 - The California Department of Fish and Game (Department) prepared a status review of a petition prepared by the Department to list the willow flycatcher as an endangered species. The Department found that the species was endangered in a significant portion of its range based on the best scientific information available due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds. They recommended the Fish and Game Commission find that the willow flycatcher merited endangered status.22572:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22572Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:50:08 -08001990-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 92-05 - In 1990, an estimated 1706 pairs of California least terns nested in California at sites from San Francisco Bay south to the Tijuana River mouth. This number represents a marked increase (approx. 36%) over 1988 and 1989 population estimates and is the highest number recorded since systematic monitoring was begun in 1973. The number of breeding sites decreased from 29 in 1989 to 28 in 1990 with four sites that had been occupied in 1989 unused and two new sites colonized. An estimated 1581 fledglings were produced in 1990, more than any other year on record. Likewise, the ratio of fledglings to breeding pairs (0.93) was among the highest ever recorded. Outstanding productivity was widespread. Clutch size was high throughout the State, averaging 1.93 eggs/clutch (S.D.=0.44). Sources of egg and chick mortality varied from colony to colony. Documented avian predators included northern harrier, American kestrel, peregrine falcon, burrowing owl, common raven, western meadowlark, and loggerhead shrike. Predation by cats and red fox was documented but losses to coyotes, domestic dogs, raccoons, long-tailed weasels, and rats were strongly suspected. Disturbance by humans remained a widespread problem. 22724:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22724Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:49:54 -08001992-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 92-06 - In 1991, an estimated 1830 pairs of California least terns nested in California at sites from San Francisco Bay south to the Tijuana River mouth. This number continues an apparent trend of a recently escalating population, first noted in 1990. The number of nesting pairs in 1991 is the highest since systematic monitoring began in 1973. The net number of breeding colonies used from 1990 to 1991 dropped by two, with three sites unused and one new site occupied. Actual nesting sites increased from 30 in 1990 to 34 in 1991, a result of monitoring, habitat perturbation, and expansion. Population increases were observed at most established colonies throughout the State but especially in San Diego and Orange counties. An estimated 1784 fledglings were produced in 1991, more than any year on recored. The reatio of fledgling to breeding pairs also increased slightly (0.97). Sources of egg and chick mortality varied from colony to colony. Reports of predator problems were down overall but a few colonies experienced significant losses. Documented avian predators included northern harrier, American kestrel, American crow, and red-tailed hawk. Raccoon was the only identifed mammalian predator. Human disturbance remained a widespread problem.22723:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22723Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:49:41 -08001992-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-10 - Knowledge of the Xantus' murrelet’s at-sea distribution and natural history is insufficient to fully identify threats to its survival. This radio telemetry project was designed to better understand murrelet at-sea ecology and assess the species’ vulnerability, In 1995, Xantus’ murrelets from Santa Barbara Island were radio-marked to examine foraging distribution, colony attendance patterns and post-breeding dispersal. This report documents progress made during the first year of the three-year study.2928:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2928Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:49:02 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-21 - Habitat and microhabitat preferences of red tree voles were studied in young, mature and old-growth douglas-fir forests in northern California. The study was conducted from July through October, 1984 and June through September, 1985. Seventy-nine of the 148 nest sites examined in this study contained evidence of inhabitation by red tree voles. An analysis of marcrohabitat selection between seral stages indicated that the abundance of red tree vole nests was greatest in old-growth forests. Red tree vole nests were characterized by accumulations of resin ducts and red tree vole feces, and were composed primarily of small twigs. Nests were most frequently located on a branch directly adjacent to the trunk of the nest tree. Nests were found only in douglas-fir. Nest trees were more likely to have conks, dead tops, and fire and damage scars than expected. For all seral stages combined, red tree vole nest sites were distinguished from available but unused trees by four variables: distance to the nearest red tree vole nest tree, bole height, tree height, and tree diameter.40954:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40954Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:45:31 -08001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-18 - From February 5, 1977 to Janurary 31, 1978, movements of 13 San Joaquin kit foxes were studied on land being developed for agriculture in Kern County, California. Using radio-telemetry, kit fox average minimum home range was measured at 251.6 ha (621.4 ac) with evidence of home range overlap amongst kit foxes. Over the 8.5-month monitoring period, 15 dens were found for 10 of the 13 radio-collared foxes. The maximum number of dens per fox was three. The use of artificial dens by two of the 13 foxes was documented. This study showed that at least three foxes denning on areas undergoing land conversion operations were buried and died in their dens. Based on this evidence, 12 of 38 captured kit foxes were relocated from areas of development. After relocation, the foxes were not monitored and their fates were unknown. Analysis of kit fox scat revealed that the desert cottontail was the main food item of the species in areas of agricultural development. Habitat loss was considered to be the major threat to the survival of the San Joaquin kit fox.40948:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40948Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:03:27 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-15 - A Yuma clapper rail study was conducted in Topock Marsh, lower Colorado River, Arizona from March to October 1973 with additional data collected through January 1974. Clapper rails began arriving at the marsh in April and remained until late September with the majority of birds vacating the marsh by October 1. Responses by clapper rails to tape playback in November 1973 and January 1974 indicated a small population over-wintered at the marsh. Clapper rails required cattail or bulrush stands in shallow water near high ground for habitat. They established territories averaging 1.4 hectares (3.55 acres). Light cattail type habitat had the highest rail densities; dense cattails held the lowest rail densities. Highest densities of rails were 7.9 birds per 10 hectares (30 rails per 100 acres).40947:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40947Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:47:06 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 73-10 - The status of the island fox, found on six islands within the Channel Islands of southern California, was determined. Through live-trapping, an index to fox density was calculated for each island occupied by foxes. Data were collected on habitat, food habits, and life history. Fox populations appeared to be healthy and normal on all islands except Santa Catalina Island. The Santa Catalina Island fox may be endangered.40946:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40946Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:32:27 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-24 - A survey to locate breeding populations of California black rails in San Francisco Bay, Morro Bay and Los Banos Wildlife Management Area was conducted from March to July, 1977. Thirty-two calling black rails were located in tidal wetlands bordering San Pablo Bay and its tributaries, Suisun Marsh and the delta of the Sacramento-San Joaquin river system. Seven black rails were heard calling in marshes bordering Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo County and one was heard at Olema Marsh, Marin County. Of these, 95% of the rails were located in marshes dominated by pickleweed (Salicornia virginica) or Scirpus spp. No black rails were detected in San Francisco Bay south of the Richmond-San Rafael bridge or at Los Banos Wildlife Management Area. Black rails were found in high marsh habitat at the upper limit of tidal flooding.40806:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40806Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:31:59 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-25 - A survey of the breeding population of Belding's Savannah sparrow in California was conducted from February 25 to June 1, 1977. All known and possible breeding sites were visited once or twice during the survey period. The historical and current range of the species in California extends from Goleta, Santa Barbara County south to the Tijuana River estuary, San Diego County. The birds are almost exclusively confined to coastal salt marsh habitat. An estimated 1,610 pairs were detected at 28 locations. Local populations ranged from 4 pairs at Beacon Island, Mission Bay, San Diego County to 267 pairs at Anaheim Bay near Seal Beach, Orange County. All but one of the occupied sites was vegetated with pickleweed (Salicornia). Birds were nesting in the upper littoral zone of the marshes.40807:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40807Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:29:18 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-16 - Field work was conducted from April 1 through August 17, 1980 to investigate the status of the least Bell's vireo population breeding in the vicinity of Gibraltar Reservoir, Santa Barbara County, California. Habitat condition was described and a survey of nesting vireos was made at the site. Management recommendations were included.40736:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40736Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:06:16 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 82-29 - The importance of Great Basin lakes in northern California to summer and fall bird populations was studied. Lakes crucial to the support of individual species were identified. A literature search and correspondence review of the limnological characteristics of eleven lakes was completed and nongame aquatic bird surveys were conducted periodically through summer and fall. Eagle, Goose and Mono lakes were of outstanding importance to aquatic bird populations. Mono Lake, in particular, occupies a crucial position in the migratory path of several species of birds.40687:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40687Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:33:01 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 81-24 - During May and June 1981, surveys were conducted to gather data on nest site activity and reproductive performance of prairie falcons in California. Surveys were conducted in the central coast ranges, and Modoc and Tehema counties. Sixty-seven eyries were surveyed. Of these, 35 were active (52%)and 23 of these active nests (66%) were productive. There were 2.9 young per successful nest in central coast eyries and 2.6 young per successful nest statewide. Based on the results of the survey and other considerations, five eyas birds were allowed to be taken from the wild and an additonal five birds were made available from the Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group facility for captive breeding for the purposes of falconry take.40686:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40686Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:22:24 -08001981-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-24 - During spring and summer of 1982, a statewide inventory of heron and egret rookeries was performed. This was the 6th such effort since 1969. A total of 202 rookeries were detected; 121 (60%) of these were found to support active nesting at the time of the survey. Great blue herons occupied the greatest percent (91.7%) of all rookeries known in the state but the cattle egret was the dominant species in terms of numbers of active nests recorded with 3400 nests (35.2%). Great blue herons appeared to be the most widespread species followed by great egrets and black-crowned night-herons. Heron and egret populations appeared to be stable with local setbacks due to habitat loss or disturbance.40685:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40685Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:12:42 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-07 - This report summarizes USGS’ work on mountain yellow-legged frog (MYLF) in southern California from 2000 to present. Data describing 1) historic and current distributions of MYLF; 2) MYLF natural history; 3) estimated population sizes; 3) movements by marked MYLF; 4) characteristics of current MYLF habitat; and 5) surveys for as-yet undiscovered MYLF populations are included. In addition, an interim report on an experimental trout removal effort on one creek is included; survey data relative to the degree of overlap observed between trout and MYLF populations are summarized. Observations relative to the conservation and recovery of the MYLF in southern California are discussed; management recommendations are made.40111:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40111Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:34:54 -08002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-12 - A field study was conducted from May through October, 1977 to determine California condor activity in eight areas of the San Rafael Wilderness and Indian and Mono Creek drainages, Santa Barbara County, California. Evidence of condor activity was determined by the presence of birds, whitewash or molted feathers. Fifty-one days were spent in the field. A total of 290 km (180 miles) was covered by foot and 71 km (44 miles) by horseback. Of the eight areas intensively checked, condors were found at two localities. A nest site in the study area was active for the second consecutive year, successfully fledging a young in 1976 and 1977. An evaluation of condor observations revealed that as many as six condors may be using Santa Barbara back country. Potential disturbance factors were noted.40105:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40105Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:11:52 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-20 - Evidence that the California condor was affected by lead contamination came from blood samples taken from a condor live-trapped in 1982 and bone samples from a dead condor collected in 1976. Both birds were found to have lead concentrations considered to be above background levels. This investigation was designed to test whether chronic or acute lead contamination was a source of condor morbidity and mortality. 40106:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40106Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:11:11 -08001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-21 - The attached species accounts are summaries of the present knowledge of six species of furbearers harvested in California. These are the only furbearing mammals, as defined by Section 4000 of the Fish and Game Code, that can be taken under regulations established by the Fish and Game Commission. The remaining eight furbearers are completely protected and may not be taken at any time except for scientific purposes unders strict permit control. Nongame mammals, those not classified as game mammals, furbearers, or fully protected mammals, that are taken for their fur (i.d., coyote, bobcat, skunk) are not included in this report. 40074:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40074Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:32:36 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-06 - A second survey of the distribution of the Amargosa vole in Inyo and San Bernardino counties was conducted 2-6 December 1977. Bulrush marshes near Shoshone, Tecopa Hot Springs, and Tecopa, and at Saratoga Springs in Death Valley National Monument, were live-trapped to determine the presence or absence of voles. In 622 trap-periods at seven sites, 15 voles were captured. All animals but one were captured at a single site. Additional field work was recommended. The Department recommended the subspecies be classified as "endangered" by the California Fish and Game Commission and by the Secretary of the Interior. 40073:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40073Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:25:43 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-04 - The fourth heron rookery survey was conducted in 1972 by the Department of Fish and Game. A statewide inventory of 115 active rookeries revealed 5,398 active nests. The number of reported rookeries increased from 60 active rookeries with 3,187 active nests in 1969. Comparable rookery data for 1969-1972 revealed that a decrease of great blue heron nesting activity may have occurred. Increased evidence of great egret and snowy egret nesting activity was detected. Occurrence of a cattle egret rookery in Imperial County provided documentation of breeding in California. Human disturbance caused nine rookeries to be abandoned during 1969-1972.40058:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40058Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:06:57 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-03 - The purpose of this survey was to help define the range of the California clapper rail. The survey was conducted from April 16 to May 10, 1973 in the north part of San Francisco Bay and along the central California coast in marshes from Bodega Bay to Watsonville Slough. Additional data were gathered from R. Gill, California Department of Fish and Game, who studied the habitat and distribution of the California clapper rail in south San Francisco Bay in 1971 and 1972. 40056:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40056Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:56:32 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-06 - A raptor survey, initiated in December 1970, involved reporting all raptor species and their numbers observed along permanently established survey routes throughout the state. Surveys were conducted four times each year. Fifty-four routes were originally established in areas where raptors concentrated either in winter or during the breeding season. Fifty-three routes were surveyed during 1971-72 resulting in a report of 9,518 raptor sightings of 17 species. The 1970-71 survey reported a closely comparable total of 9,662 sightings of 19 species. Sightings of Califonria condor and goshawk were not reported in 1971-72. Sightings in 1971-72 averaged 105.0 birds per 100 miles which compares closely with 106.3 birds per 100 miles during 1970-71. Four hundred and sixty-seven eyries were inventoried during this period compared to 426 in 1971 and 283 in 1970. A bald eagle study was initiated to more fully determine its breeding status in California. Of 60 known bald eagle eyries, 21 were active in 1972. Three active peregrine falcon eyries were reported in 1972. Osprey research undertaken by the Department was completed in 1972 accounting for a reduction in reports of successful eyries through lack of field effort.40055:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40055Tue, 29 Nov 2011 10:21:15 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-01 - Two transect routes were established during the winter of 1972-1973 in northwestern California to report on the activities of mustelids, especially wolverine. Trails of martens were identified on both transects; those of fisher and wolverine were detected on only one transect. Detections are described and movement patterns are discussed.40047:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40047Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:47:19 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-25 - During late spring and summer of 1978, a study was conducted in the Upper Butte Basin of the Sacramento Valley to document the vegetation and wildlife resources of the riparian zones, and to provide a database from which management decisions appropriate to the preservation of this habitat type may be made. Three study areas of low-terraced riparian growth were selected along the Sacramento River in Glenn and Colusa counties, and one along Butte Slough in Sutter County. A total of 51 species of birds, including the state-listed yellow-billed cuckoo were observed, with an average nesting density of 15.6 pairs of birds per hectare. Sixteen mammal species were noted by direct observation, analysis of tracks and scats, and snap trapping. A quantitative vegetation analysis showed 48 plant species occurring in a layered structure forming rather distinct overstory, midstory, and understory components. Major plant associations of each study area were mapped.40046:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=40046Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:01:22 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-13 - This is the first report on California's endangered and rare fish and wildlife. It includes an account of California's threatened life forms and the Department of Fish and Game's recommendations for their continued survival. The criteria used by the Department in compiling the list of rare and endangered species are included. The Fish and Game Commission adopted the first list of endangered and rare species on May 21, 1971.36255:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=36255Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:05:57 -08001972-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-11 - The thirty-second annual census of the light-footed clapper rail in California was conducted from 4 February to 4 June 2011. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Mugu Lagoon in Ventura County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A total of 441 pairs of light-footed clapper rails exhibited breeding behavior in 21 marshes in 2011. This is the second highest count on record, a 17.3% increase over the breeding population detected in 2010, and only 2 pairs lower than the all time high count in 2007. Upper Newport Bay with 137 pairs was once again the largest subpopulation in California with 4.6% more rails exhibiting breeding behavior than in 2010 but 21.3% fewer than the high count in 2005 of 174 pairs. Tijuana Marsh NWR was at its second highest recorded level with 113 breeding pairs, increasing by 48.7% from the 2010 breeding season but 20.4% lower than the record high of 142 pairs in 2007. The Newport subpopulation comprised 31.1% of the state population in 2011 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 25.6%, together accounting for 56.7% of the breeding population of this rail in California. Eleven of the small subpopulations increased in size from the 2010 totals, increasing by a combined total of 44 breeding pairs in 2011. The subpopulation in Batiquitos Lagoon reached a new high total of 43 breeding pairs, maintaining its position as third largest subpopulation in California. Four of the smaller subpopulations were reduced by 1 to 16 pairs. Point Mugu increased by 33% to 16 pairs and the Seal Beach tally was up significantly to 34 pairs. San Elijo Lagoon reached its all-time high count of 15 breeding pairs in 2006, 2010, and again in 2011 and the UC Kendall-Frost Reserve was up to 19 pairs, the third highest count there. Excluding the 2 largest subpopulations, there were 7 subpopulations in double figures, ranging from 12 to 43 pairs and totaling 151 breeding pairs or 34.2% of the state total. The remaining 12 subpopulations ranged from 1 to 7 pairs and totaled 40 breeding pairs of clapper rails, or 9.1% of the total. The annual increases in the population total of the light-footed clapper rail 2002 – 2007 gave encouragement that restoration and management were contributing to the recovery of this endangered bird. The 2008 crash was presumably weather-related and a harbinger of what could be in store if wide weather fluctuations are the future norm. The boost to 441 pairs of light-footed clapper rails in 2011 is a manifestation of the high reproductive potential of this endangered bird, a tangible demonstration of the resiliency of this subspecies. 39921:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=39921Mon, 21 Nov 2011 15:24:55 -08002011-01-01T00:00:00SurveyProtocolInland Deserts Region - This protocol is for use in surveys for the barefoot banded gecko as required by the California Environmental Quality Act. Surveys are to determine presence and not abundance or relative density.39305:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=39305Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:17:39 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-09 - As required by statute this Evaluation Report sets forth the Department of Fish and Game’s (Department) evaluation of the twice amended Petition to list the American pika as a threatened species. The Center for Biological Diversity (Petitioner) originally submitted a petition to the Commission on August 21, 2007, to list the American pika. The Department determined, after its initial scientific evaluation of the Petition, that it did not contain sufficient scientific information to indicate the petitioned action may be warranted. On April 10, 2008, the Commission determined that the petition provided insufficient information to indicate the petitioned action may be warranted. On June 24, 2009, the Commission set aside its April 10, 2008 decision, and again determined that the petition did not provide sufficient information to indicate the petitioned action may be warranted. The Petitioner subsequently filed a lawsuit. In accordance with a court judgment, at its February 3, 2011 meeting, the Commission set aside its decision of June 24, 2009 and its formal findings, which were adopted on October 1, 2009, and superseded on April 10, 2010. Also at the February 3, 2011 meeting, the Commission reconsidered the Petitioner’s petition to list the American pika as threatened or endangered under CESA, including a new submission by Petitioner dated May 15, 2009. The Commission treated the petition, including Petitioner’s new submission, as an amended petition pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 2073.7, and also determined the amendment to be substantive. The Petitioner subsequently submitted a 43-page letter. At its May 4, 2011 meeting, the Commission determined that letter dated March 31, 2011, from the Petitioner amounted to a substantive amendment of the petition. Pursuant to Section 2073.7 of the Fish and Game Code, the Commission transmitted the twice amended Petition to the Department for review. The Department evaluated the Petition and recommended to the Commission that there was sufficient information to advance the species to candidacy under the California Endangered Species Act.37952:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=37952Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:18:56 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ArticleOutdoor California article - Wildlife officials, scientists, conservationists, industry representatives and land management experts developed a conservation strategy to protect the Tricolored Blackbird, a California species of special concern that once formed large colonial nesting colonies in the Central Valley. The cooperative approach to conservation allows flexibility amongst the partners to find workable solutions to protect this at-risk species and its habitat. The species historically nested in California’s wetlands adjacent to grasslands, rich in invertebrate resources for food. In recent years with the loss of wetland habitats in the state, Tricolored Blackbirds have been found nesting in certain agricultural crops that provide protective cover. Unfortunately, this puts the nesting colony in jeopardy if the field is harvested before the young are able to fly away. Government compensation to farmers for delay in harvesting their crops has proven to be a workable solution that benefits birds and people alike. 39196:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=39196Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:01:43 -07002008-09-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-10 - Thirty coastal salt marshes were surveyed for state-endangered Belding’s Savannah sparrows (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi; Belding’s), 5 March – 26 May 2010. Belding’s exhibiting breeding behavior were detected in 29 of these wetlands from Devereux and Goleta Sloughs in Santa Barbara County on the north to Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge on the Mexican border. A minimum total of 3,372 breeding territories was detected during approximately 391 field-hours. This is the highest state total reported since periodic counts began in 1973 and is 7.6% higher than the next highest count, reported in 2006. The Point Mugu subpopulation was again the single largest subpopulation; after doubling in size by 2001, it increased another 28.8% by 2006, and held equal numbers in 2010 comprising 31% of the state total. The major need of this little endangered songbird remains habitat restoration, security, and management. At least 75% of southern California’s former coastal wetlands have been lost and the remainder suffers ongoing degradation. The long-term fate of a few of the occupied wetlands is still uncertain and most are affected by trespass and the side effects of so many millions of people living on their edges and in their watersheds. Counteracting these problems by rebuilding a larger habitat base, with better security, and increased management would greatly benefit a significant suite of species with which the Belding’s shares its habitat. 24503:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24503Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:20:07 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-07 - The thirtieth annual census of the light-footed clapper rail in California was conducted from the 22nd of February to the 13th of May 2009. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Carpinteria Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A total of 320 pairs of light-footed clapper rails exhibited breeding behavior in 16 marshes in 2009. This is a 37% increase over the breeding population detected in 2008, but 28% lower than the high count in 2007. Upper Newport Bay with 148 pairs was once again the largest subpopulation in California with 68% more rails exhibiting breeding behavior than in 2008 and only 15% fewer than the high count found in 2005 of 174 pairs. Tijuana Marsh NWR did not recover significantly toward the record high level of 142 pairs in 2007 but did increase from 2008 by 21% to 57 breeding pairs in 2009. The Newport subpopulation comprised 46.3% of the state population in 2009 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 17.8%, together accounting for 64.1% of the breeding population of this rail in California. 24224:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24224Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:19:56 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-06 - This report summarized efforts to detect, monitor, and estimate the productivities of the largest tricolored blackbird breeding colonies in California’s Central Valley during the 2010 breeding season. The study focused on detecting and determining the fates of the largest colonies, and provided suggestions for conservation actions that may benefit the species. Factors that currently limit tricolor productivity in the Central Valley include: 1) the relative lack of insects within the foraging radius of breeding birds; 2) on-going conversions of potentially productive agricultural lands, primarily those planted in alfalfa, to perennial crops avoided by tricolors, primarily orchards (almonds and pistachios) and vineyards, which reduces the foraging habitat around colonies; 3) the shooting of adult tricolors in the Sacramento Valley during and after the breeding season, and, 4) predation by cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis). 24101:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24101Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:19:45 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-05 - The status of the southern California Tricolored Blackbird population is of great concern as both the number of breeding colonies and the number of breeding birds have shown steep declines. Researchers have documented behavioral differences between Central Valley and southern populations, suggestive that the Tehachapi Mountains in southern California might serve as a dispersal barrier for the species. DNA analyses were performed to determine whether there are genetic differences not only between southern California and the Central Valley but also among sites within southern California. Effective management of the Tricolored Blackbird would benefit from a better knowledge of both the distribution and connectedness of populations across the state. Without knowing how populations are connected (both demographically and genetically), it is impossible to identify the spatial scale at which they should be managed. Some remnant populations may represent unique genetic units and be high conservation priorities; alternatively, small populations at risk of extirpation may be genetically similar to larger, stable populations elsewhere and therefore represent lower conservation priority. 23727:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=23727Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:19:34 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-04 - On February 13, 2004, the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) received a petition to list the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) as an endangered species. The petition was submitted by the Center for Biological Diversity, Environmental Defense Center, Defenders of Wildlife, Sierra Club Sonoma Group, Citizens for a Sustainable Cotati, VernalPools.org, Citizens’ Committee to Complete the Refuge, Butte Environmental Center, and Ohlone Audubon Society. The Commission rejected the petition but, following a court-ordered ruling to accept it, formally accepted the petition at its February 5, 2009 meeting. The Department of Fish and Game prepared a status review of the California tiger salamander and found, based upon the best scientific information available, that it merited listing under the California Endangered Species Act. The California tiger salamander is a large, stocky amphibian that spends much of its life underground. It occurs only in California’s Central Valley grasslands and the oak savannah plant communities of California’s Central Valley, the Sierra Nevada and Coast ranges, and San Francisco Bay, below approximately 1,500 ft. The species requires fishless, seasonal or semi-permanent wetlands to reproduce, with surrounding terrestrial migration and dispersal habitat that contains active ground squirrel or gopher burrows to serve as underground retreats. Threats to California tiger salamander are primarily from continued and long-term habitat loss/conversion and fragmentation. Additionally, hybridization with introduced non-native tiger salamanders has occurred over the past 60 years, thereby resulting in decreased population and distribution of “pure” stock. California tiger salamanders are also susceptible to increased predation by, and competition with, other non-native species- particularly fish and amphibians. 21754:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21754Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:19:11 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-03 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2009, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 7130-7352 California least tern breeding pairs established 8037-8045 nests and produced 1734- 2132 fledglings at 51 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.24-0.30. Statewide, 13,965 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.77 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.110) and the Statewide clutch size of 1.76 eggs (St Dev = 0.455) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Batiquitos Lagoon, Pt. Mugu, and Huntington Beach represented 64% of the breeding pairs while Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Alameda Point, and Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve produced 42% of the fledglings. The 2009 chick mortality rate of 15% is similar to the rate observed in 2004 (14%). LA Harbor, Camp Pendleton, and Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve represented 79% of the total reported chick deaths, but only 37% of the total chicks. The predators responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2009 were gull-billed terns (Gelochelidon nilotica) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Gulls (Larus sp.), American crows, common ravens (Corvus corax), American kestrels (Falco sparverius), and peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) were reported from the most sites. The monitoring effort of 2009 is scheduled to continue in 2010.22151:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22151Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:19:01 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-02 - The report to the California Fish and Game Commission summarized findings on lead levels found in California condors in California in 2009.21622:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21622Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:18:50 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-01 - Surveys were conducted from 1997-1999 throughout the interior of California for seven species of colonial waterbirds: the American White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, California Gull, Caspian Tern, Black Tern, and Forster’s Tern. The estimated number of breeding pairs of these species was: American White Pelican (2346–3039), Double-crested Cormorant (6865), Ring-billed Gull (12,660), California Gull (30,720), Caspian Tern (794–1762), Black Tern (4153), and Forster’s Tern (2357). Collectively these species bred widely, though locally, over much of the state’s interior. The American White Pelican and Ring-billed Gull bred exclusively in northeastern California; the California Gull mainly in northeastern California, with an outlying colony at the Salton Sea. The Caspian Tern bred at many of the gull colonies in northeastern California but also in the Tulare Basin, at one site on the coastal slope of southern California, and at the Salton Sea. Likewise, the Forster’s Tern bred mainly in northeastern California but also in the San Joaquin Valley and at one site on the coastal slope of southern California. The Black Tern bred widely in northeastern California and in the rice country of the Sacramento Valley and very locally in the San Joaquin Valley. The Double-crested Cormorant was the most widespread, as it bred in northeastern California, throughout the Central Valley, in the central Coast Ranges, on the coastal slope of southern California, and at the Salton Sea. Particularly important breeding areas for the seven species of waterbirds were the Klamath Basin (freshwater wetlands, reservoirs); the Modoc Plateau, Great Basin Desert, and northern Sierra Nevada (freshwater wetlands, reservoirs, saline terminal lakes); the Central Valley (rice fields, remnant and artificial wetlands); and the Salton Sea (saline and freshwater wetlands). Although varying in extent and severity by region, habitat loss and degradation have diminished the value of wetlands to waterbirds. Less appreciated has been the profound effect on waterbirds of the nearly complete loss of revitalizing ecological processes in large areas of the state, such as flooding of ephemeral wetland habitat in the Central Valley. Species accounts for the seven key species provide a summary of their general range and abundance in North America, conservation status at three scales, and seasonal status, historic and current range and abundance, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs in California. Although historical data are sketchy, at least five of the seven species have shown declines in overall numbers or a retraction in the size of their breeding range in the interior of the state. Only one species, the California Gull, has clearly increased in numbers by exploiting human alterations of the landscape. 24095:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24095Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:18:40 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2009-05 - The twenty-ninth annual census of the light-footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) in California was conducted from 29 February to 8 June 2008. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Carpinteria Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A total of 234 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails exhibited breeding behavior in 15 marshes in 2008. This is the smallest statewide breeding population detected since 2001, representing a 47.2% decrease from the count in 2007 following four years of successive record-breaking high counts. Upper Newport Bay was once again the largest subpopulation in California but had decreased by 46.7% from its second highest total in 2007. Tijuana Marsh NWR also plummeted from an all-time high level of 142 pairs in 2007 by 67% in 2008 to just 47 breeding pairs. The Newport subpopulation comprised 37.6% of the state population in 2008 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 20.1%, together accounting for 57.7% of the breeding population of this rail in California. 24225:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24225Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:18:31 -07002009-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2009-04 - Report to the Fish and Game Commission summarized the levels of lead found in California condors in California during 2008.21623:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21623Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:18:21 -07002009-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2009-03 - Tricolored blackbirds were surveyed beginning March 29 and ending on August 3, 2009. During this time a total of 32 sites was detected; of these, 13 were monitored. Despite intensive, targeted searches using dairies as surrogates for colony locations, no settlements nor breeding colonies were detected in Kings County and only one each was detected in Fresno and Madera counties. Several colonies in Kern and Tulare counties were already well-established by the time field work began in late March. As recently as 5 years ago, nearly all settlements could be detected through field work beginning on or about the 1st of April, so there appears to be a trend toward earlier breeding among birds breeding in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Overall, 2009 was again a year of limited productivity, but not as poor as the drought-induced statewide reproductive failure of 2007. There were only three colonies in the lower San Joaquin Valley that were documented to have had average productivity. These colonies, consisting of fewer than 50,000 breeding birds in aggregate, were all conserved through harvest delays and were estimated to have fledged 32,000 young. In contrast, the larger 30,000 and 50,000 breeding bird Riverview colonies in Tulare County fledged no more than several hundred young, due primarily to severe losses to cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) predation. In the Sacramento Valley, both the number of large colonies as well as the productivities of colonies was well below average for the third year in a row, and a large colony at Rancho Seco Park abandoned its breeding attempt. It is believed that continuing drought conditions reduce the availability of the animal foods, primarily insects, required by breeding tricolors and that insect abundance has recently been insufficient in parts of the Sacramento Valley to sustain breeding by tricolors.19462:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=19462Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:18:11 -07002009-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2009-02 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2008, with observers at 36 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 6998-7698 California least tern breeding pairs established 8223-8226 nests and produced 2254-2573 fledglings at 47 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.29-0.37. Statewide, 13,847 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.77 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.124) and the statewide clutch size of 1.75 eggs (St Dev = 0.452) for Type 1 sites (clutch sizes for each nesting site are provided for 2004-2008). Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Batiquitos Lagoon, Los Angeles Harbor, and Venice Beach represented 64% of the breeding pairs while Alameda Point, Venice Beach, Huntington Beach and Los Angeles Harbor produced 50% of the fledglings. The 2008 chick mortality rate of 14% represented the first increase since 2004 but the actual rate was less than those of 2004 (32%) and 2005 (28%). Camp Pendleton, Venice Beach, LA Harbor, Seal Beach, and Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve represented 87% of the total reported chick deaths, but only 45% of the total chicks. The main predator of least terns in 2008 was the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), resulting from depredation of 760 eggs at Venice Beach. Gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon nilotica), common raven (Corvus corax), and coyote (Canis latrans) predation each comprised 8-10% of all predation. Common ravens, peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), American crows, gulls (Larus sp.), great blue herons (Ardea herodias) and American kestrels (Falco sparverius) were reported from the most sites. The monitoring effort of 2008 is scheduled to continue in 2009.14610:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=14610Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:17:52 -07002009-01-01T00:00:00MemoNongame Wildlife Program Report 2009-01 - White-Nose Syndrome (WNS) is associated with mass mortalities of bats in hibernation colonies in the eastern United States. WNS appears to be caused by a previously unidentified fungus. The disease has shown a dramatic rate of spread over the past three years and currently threatens two endangered bat species. If introduced into California, WNS could significantly impact the viability of our bat populations.13867:11https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=13867Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:17:42 -07002009-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-07 - Tricolored blackbirds were surveyed between March 31st and July 28th, 2008 in the Central Valley. During this time a total of 37 breeding sites was detected; of these, 13 were monitored. Overall, 2008 was a year of limited productivity, but not as poor as the drought-induced statewide reproductive failure of 2007. Only one colony in the lower San Joaquin Valley was documented to have relatively good reproductive success: the Costa’s Dairy colony in Kern County. This colony of 60,000 breeding birds was conserved through a silage buy-out and was estimated to have fledged over 43,000 young. In the Sacramento Valley, both the number of large colonies as well as the numbers of young produced of colonies was well below average for the second year in a row. The drought that was believed to be responsible for last year’s statewide reproductive failure was ameliorated somewhat in the San Joaquin Valley but intensified in the Sacramento Valley in 2008 and is believed responsible for the low reproductive outputs of the Sacramento Valley colonies monitored. It is believed that drought conditions result, among other effects, in reduced availability of the animal foods, primarily insect larvae, necessary to bring females into reproductive condition. 19460:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=19460Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:17:30 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-05 - Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia) nesting activities on the Arctic Challenger began on approximately June 2, 2007. Seventeen visits to the Arctic Challenger were made between June 16 and October 3, 2007. The first visit to the Arctic Challenger was on June 16, when approximately 150 Caspian Tern adults were observed. The highest count of young Caspian Terns was made on July 16. A total of 75 to 80 chicks and fledglings were observed. The last nest to be initiated was on approximately August 3. The estimated number of Caspian Tern eggs that hatched was approximately 80 to 90. Approximately 41% of the fledglings on the barge were rescued from the water by the Long Beach Lifeguards and U.S. Coast Guard. The rescued birds were taken to the International Bird Rescue Research Center and the Long Beach Animal Hospital for rehabilitation and subsequent release. Where the heaviest nesting occurred, the substrate was composed of dirt, sand, crushed seashells, and avian excrement, was approximately three-quarters to one inch thick, and mostly concentrated in the area behind the forward bulkhead. It was estimated that approximately eighty-five Caspian Terns successfully fledged from the Arctic Challenger. It is recommended that prior to April 1 each year, barges within the Long Beach and Los Angeles harbors be inspected and cleaned to remove all suitable nesting substrate material, and if nesting terns are discovered on a barge, chick fencing should be installed around the perimeter of the deck prior to hatching.3822:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3822Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:17:18 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-09 - Management of wildlife resources in wilderness areas is a challenge to State and Federal agencies because of mandates to protect native species and ecosystems, while providing recreational and economic opportunities for the public. Sport fish have been introduced to many formerly fishless waters in public lands throughout the western USA. The resulting fisheries foster recreation use of wilderness, however, widespread fish introductions have been implicated in the decline of several amphibian species including sensitive species such as the mountain yellow-legged frog and the Cascades frog (a Species of Special Concern in California). Our goal was to better understand the consequences of agency fish stocking policies regarding impacts to the native fauna that live in the lakes or feed on the insects and amphibians that emerge from the lakes.3834:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3834Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:17:08 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-08 - We used mark-recapture and radio telemetry from 2003 to 2007 to determine key ecological components of Cascades frog life history, habitat use, spatial patterns, migrations and dispersal for all age classes in the Trinity Alps, California. We found Cascades frogs used a variety of habitats for breeding, summer foraging and over-wintering, but it was common for these habitats to be spatially or temporally separated and frogs were observed to move seasonally among them.Migrations and dispersal events were common among isolated habitats indicating that, in many cases, single sites are not likely to be self-sustaining, but contribute to a matrix of required resources across a patchy landscape. Furthermore, based on extensive migrations and dispersal we found the population dynamics of Cascades frogs to be operating across a whole-basin, so conservation of this species will require making decisions that reflect this scale. We also studied the role of Cascades frogs in local food web dynamics, including their relationships with both natural and introduced predators. This included two native garter snakes (Thamnophis spp.) and introduced trout.3823:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3823Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:16:54 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-07 - Mountain yellow-legged frogs (Rana muscosa and R. sierrae) are found in southern California and high elevation lakes and streams in the Sierra Nevada. Populations of this frog have been drastically declining throughout California since the late 1960s (Bradford et al. 1994; Stebbins and Cohen 1997; Knapp and Matthews 2000, Vredenberg et al. 2007). Historically, close to 100 populations were documented in Southern California. In 2002 the species was federally listed as endangered in southern California, and eight populations were detected in 2005. These are: Bear Gulch, Devil’s Canyon, Little Rock Creek, South Fork Big Rock Creek and Vincent Gulch (Angeles National Forest) and East Fork City Creek, Fuller Mill Creek and Dark Canyon (San Bernardino National Forest). Causes of these declines include non-native predators, loss and alteration of habitat, and a highly contagious fungal infection that results in chytridiomycosis, an often fatal condition in amphibians. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), and California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR) are the agencies responsible for the management of the mountain yellow-legged frog (MYLF) and its habitat in southern California. In response to the decline and the idea that planted trout may be negatively impacting MYLF populations, all involved agencies initiated a program where stocked trout were actively removed from creeks also inhabited by the endangered MYLF. The CDFG also ceased trout stocking in eight locations in southern California where trout may negatively impact MYLF.3825:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3825Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:16:42 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-06 - This project had two primary objectives. One was to evaluate the bat assemblage (species diversity, relative abundance, reproductive status) in forest stands of varying ages, with the hope this information would allow us to make inferences about habitat associations for various species. A second objective was to collate existing distributional information for all bat species in the region, and obtain new distributional records in a number of areas where data were sparse or lacking. Although the focus was on those tree-dwelling species either proposed or recognized as Species of Special Concern (Antrozous pallidus, Lasiurus blossevillii, Myotis thysanodes and Myotis volans), records were to be gathered simultaneously for all other species encountered. The field work for this project was conducted in 1997.3835:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3835Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:16:25 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-02 - The Department of Fish and Game (Department) prepared a petition evaluation report in response to a petition, dated September 29, 2010, received by the Fish and Game Commission on October 1, 2010 (Petition), from the John Muir Project of Earth Island Institute and Center for Biological Diversity, to list the black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus) as a threatened or endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). In accordance with CESA, the attached petition evaluation report delineates the categories of information required in a petition, evaluates the sufficiency of the information in the Petition, and incorporates additional relevant information that the Department possessed or received during the review period. Based upon the information contained in the Petition, the Department has determined that there is not sufficient information to indicate that the petitioned action may be warranted. The Department recommends that the Petition be rejected. 27886:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27886Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:14:19 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-04 - Island foxes (Urocyon littoralis) occur on the six largest Channel Islands off the coast of southern California. This insular situation results in inherently small and therefore highly vulnerable populations, as exemplified by recent catastrophic fox declines on four of the islands. Thus, information that contributes to effective management of populations and habitats will facilitate long-term conservation of island foxes. Prior investigations of island fox food habits usually have not been conducted in a manner that captures seasonal variations in use of items or permits among-island comparisons unbiased by annual variation in resource availability. Also, preferences among items have not been determined. Identifying item preferences could facilitate restoration or management of habitats in a manner that enhances the availability of preferred foods for foxes. Foraging patterns of island foxes were examined during October 2008-December 2009. Specific objectives were to: (1) examine seasonal food item use on all six inhabited islands, (2) compare item use among islands, (3) determine use of non-native items by foxes, and (4) use these results to develop recommendations for the management and conservation of island fox populations. Foxes exploited a variety of foods with over 40 different items being identified in scats. Foraging patterns of foxes varied among islands and also among seasons on each island, probably as a function of island-specific and season-specific differences in item availability. Annual diets were most similar between San Miguel and Santa Rosa, and least similar between San Nicolas and Santa Catalina. Across all six islands, 14 items occurred with a frequency = 10% in annual fox diets: deer mice, lizards, beetles, beetle larvae, Jerusalem crickets, silk-spinning sand crickets, grasshoppers, earwigs, terrestrial snails, and fruits of toyon, manzanita, prickly pear cactus, ice plant, and Australian saltbush. Based on use patterns, preferred items appeared to include deer mice, lizards, beetles, Jerusalem crickets, earwigs, and fruits of toyon, manzanita, and prickly pear cactus. Foxes also readily exploited non-native food items, including European earwigs, European garden snails, and fruits of ice plant, Australian saltbush, and myoporum. Use of non-native items was lowest on Santa Catalina and highest on San Nicolas where foxes may be at least partially dependent on these items. 32032:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32032Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:14:03 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-07 - The Tricolored Blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) forms some of North America’s largest breeding colonies and is almost exclusively found in California. Its designation as a species of special concern by the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG)makes it one of the top conservation priorities in the state. Conservation of this declining species is a high priority for the DFG, which has contributed financial support for research, surveys and management of the Tricolored Blackbird. Additionally, lands managed by DFG provide important breeding and foraging habitats for this species and have the potential to become increasingly important for its conservation.Establishing natural breeding and foraging areas on protected public lands is a key objective of the Tricolored Blackbird Working Group, a cooperative association of government, conservation organizations, researchers and industry. DFG manages 240 wildlife areas and ecological reserves from Modoc County to the border with Mexico. Between 1990 and 2000, 12 DFG properties supported roughly 40 colonies that ranged in size from 20 to 7500 individuals totaling 33,500 birds. Over the last 10 years, there has been a marked decrease in Tricolored Blackbird use of DFG land; between 2000 and 2011 six DFG properties supported only ten colonies that varied from 35 to 10,000 individuals totaling 19,700 birds. In addition, there are several DFG properties where no Tricolored Blackbird colonies have been observed despite being within their breeding range and some with potential nesting habitat.38296:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=38296Fri, 30 Sep 2011 13:13:00 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ArticleOutdoor California article - Biologists consider the western pond turtle to be a priority species for conservation. This California native species must compete for habitat with the more aggressive non-native species like red-eared sliders. Tips for protecting the western pond turtle are included.37883:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=37883Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:57:43 -07002011-03-01T00:00:00ArticleOutdoor California article - The author shares the joys of exploring the backroads of California with his two daughters as they look for reptiles, learn the finer points of identification and data collection, and mostly have fun together as a family.37882:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=37882Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:54:01 -07002011-05-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-08 - The tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor; hereafter tricolor) is a near-endemic California passerine that forms the largest breeding colonies of any North American songbird. Due to a variety of factors including habitat loss through conversion to agriculture and urbanization, market hunting, poisoning, shooting as an agricultural pest, and destruction of large breeding colonies through the harvest of their nesting substrates, the number of tricolors plummeted during the 20th Century, leading to a petition by the Center for Biological Diversity to list the tricolor under the protections afforded by the State of California and Federal Endangered Species Acts. These petitions were denied. The tricolor is currently a federal species of conservation concern and a California Bird Species of Special Concern. The author conducted field work between March 28 and July 19, 2011 to detect, monitor, and determine the fates of the largest tricolor breeding colonies in California’s Central Valley. Where access permitted, reproductive success of successful colonies was estimated. The significance of this year’s results are discussed and are integrated into a seven-year perspective. Recommendations for actions that may help to stem the decline in the abundance of the species and lead to more positive conservation outcomes are provided.36964:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=36964Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:59:13 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report No. R 616 S - This report is a review of the "nongame" program of the Department of Fish and Game. Initiated at the request of the Governor, the objective of the study was to determine the appropriateness of General Fund expenditures for nongame activities. This report's emphasis was on nongame program activities only. Essential to this study was an investigation into the distinction between "game" and "nongame" activities, the methodology by which program costs were charged, and a determination of the beneficiaries of such programs. Interviews were conducted with Departmental program and administrative staff and Wildlife Conservation Board staff. Authors reviewed funding structure as well as relevant sections of the Fish and Game Code and other documents. 36072:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=36072Wed, 17 Aug 2011 07:23:06 -07001976-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-04 - In response to a petition received by the Fish and Game Commission on May 26, 2006, the Department of Fish and Game recommends that the Commission delist the California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis californicus)under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The Department also recommends that management and conservation actions, and periodic monitoring continue. In making the recommendation to delist the brown pelican pursuant to CESA, the Department relied most heavily on the following: 1) The breeding population size of the brown pelican in the Channel Islands has increased from 1969 to the present, after the banning of DDT, and now exceeds the five-year mean 3,000 pair standard noted in the recovery plan (current Channel Islands population size for 2006 is roughly 8,500 breeding pairs); 2) Brown pelicans have gradually expanded their nesting sites in the Channel Islands to former breeding sites, and numbers on Santa Barbara Island have increased substantially since 2001; 3)Productivity has increased to 0.7 and now meets or exceeds the five-year mean 0.7 standard noted in the recovery plan for downlisting, however, productivity has rarely achieved the 0.9 standard noted in the recovery plan for delisting; 4) Relative to the five-year mean standard for fledged young in the recovery plan, brown pelicans at West Anacapa Island have achieved the 2,700 fledgling standard for delisting 9 times from 1997-2005; 5) In spite of known threats (i.e., oil spills, human disturbance, starvation events, domoic acid poisoning, fish hook/line mortality), the breeding population of brown pelicans in California has increased substantially; and 6) nesting sites are under generally-protective NPS ownership or management.3377:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3377Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:26:34 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-11 - The thirty-first annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted from 5 February to 26 May, 2010. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Mugu Lagoon in Ventura County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR)on the Mexican border. A total of 376 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails exhibited breeding behavior in 19 marshes in 2010. This is the third highest count on record, a 17.5% increase over the breeding population detected in 2009, but 15% lower than the high count in 2007. Upper Newport Bay with 131 pairs was once again the largest subpopulation in California with 11.5% fewer rails exhibiting breeding behavior than in 2009 and 24.7% fewer than the high count in 2005 of 174 pairs. Tijuana Marsh NWR did not recover significantly toward the record high level of 142 pairs in 2007 but did increase from 2009 by 33% to 76 breeding pairs in 2010. The Newport subpopulation comprised 35% of the state population in 2010 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 20%, together accounting for 55% of the breeding population of this rail in California. Thirteen of the small subpopulations increased in size from the 2009 totals, increasing by a combined total of 59 breeding pairs in 2010. The subpopulation in Batiquitos Lagoon reached new high total of 36 breeding pairs. Two of the smaller subpopulations were reduced by three and four pairs, respectively. Point Mugu increased by 33% to 12 pairs and the Seal Beach tally was up slightly to 25 pairs. San Elijo Lagoon reached its all-time high count of 15 breeding pairs in 2006 and again in 2010 and the U.C. Kendall-Frost Reserve held strong at 10 pairs. Excluding the two largest subpopulations, there were six subpopulations in double figures, ranging from 10 to 36 pairs and totaling 126 breeding pairs, or 33.5% of the state total. The remaining 11 subpopulations ranged from one to nine pairs and totaled 43 breeding pairs of clapper rails, or 11.4% of the total. The annual increases in the population total of the Light-footed Clapper Rail between 2002 and 2007 gave encouragement that restoration and management were contributing to the recovery of this endangered bird. The 2008 crash was presumably weather-related and a harbinger of what could be in store if wide weather fluctuations are the future norm. The boost to 376 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails in 2010 is a manifestation of the high reproductive potential of this endangered bird, a tangible demonstration of the resiliency of this subspecies.34964:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=34964Fri, 29 Jul 2011 14:08:33 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-06 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2010, with observers at 41 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 6437-6699 California least tern breeding pairs established 6968 nests and produced 1971-2245 fledglings at 51 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.29-0.35. Statewide, 12,826 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.82 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.198) and the Statewide clutch size of 1.84 eggs (St Dev = 0.441) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Pt. Mugu, Batiquitos Lagoon, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve and Huntington Beach represented 73% of the breeding pairs while Camp Pendleton, Huntington Beach, Alameda Point, Naval Base Coronado and Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve produced 68% of the fledglings. The 2010 chick mortality rate of 18% is slightly greater than the last two years. Seal Beach, North Island Maintenance and Training Facility (NIMAT), Camp Pendleton, and Naval Base Coronado represented 73% of the total reported chick deaths, but only 56% of the total chicks. The predators responsible for the greatest number of depredated least terns in 2010 were gull-billed terns (Gelochelidon nilotica), common ravens (Corvus corax), coyotes (Canis latrans) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos). Peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), great blue herons (Ardea herodias), common ravens, red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), American crows, and western gulls (Larus occidentalis) were reported from the most sites. The monitoring effort of 2010 is scheduled to continue in 2011.35022:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=35022Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:30:35 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-10 - A brief summary of river otter taxonomy, distribution, natural history and harvest in California is presented.32057:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=32057Wed, 22 Jun 2011 08:57:22 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report-North Central Region - The yellow-billed cuckoo is a state-listed endangered species in California with breeding populations along the Sacramento River, Kern River, and lower Colorado River. In 2010, from mid-June until mid-August, we conducted an extensive survey of the riparian habitat preferred by the cuckoo along the Sacramento River from Red Bluff to Colusa. We located 18 individual cuckoos using call playback surveys, spanning the entire study region. We performed an occupancy analysis using a range of territory sizes (15-75 ha) because territory size is not known for this population. Occupancy estimates predict that approximately 38 territories were occupied, depending on the size of territories. A population estimate derived from the occupancy estimate would be 38-76 cuckoos since each territory could be occupied by an individual or a pair. We did not find any significant relationships between cuckoo presence and various vegetation structure and composition measures. We believe that the yellow-billed cCuckoo population has declined in the Sacramento Valley since the last survey during 2000, which is a cause for conservation concern for this important breeding area. Restoration of riparian habitat and further monitoring and research are needed to assist the recovery of the Sacramento Valley breeding population.31786:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=31786Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:04:08 -07002011-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2010-14 - The Center for Biological Diversity submitted a petition on January 23, 2008, seeking action by the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) to list the fisher (Martes pennanti) as threatened or endangered under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The Commission referred the petition to the Department of Fish and Game (Department) for its evaluation and recommendation. The Department recommended to the Commission that designation of the fisher in California as threatened/endangered was not warranted. At the August 7, 2008 Commission meeting regarding the fisher petition, the Commission discussed the Department’s evaluation report, recommendation, and public testimony, and voted to reject the petition. On March 4, 2009, the Commission reconsidered and voted to accept the petition to list the fisher as an endangered or threatened species. This report details the Department’s review and recommendations to the Commission regarding the proposed listing of the fisher as a threatened or endangered species under CESA. The review was based on the best scientific information available and preliminarily identified habitats that may be essential to the continued existence of the species. The review also suggested some management activities and other recommendations that could contribute to recovery of the species. The Department recommended to the Commission that designation of the fisher in California as threatened/endangered was not warranted. 27900:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27900Mon, 07 Mar 2011 15:28:58 -08002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-25 - The distribution and habitat preferences of Bell’s vireo along the California side of the lower Colorado River were described. Impacts from brown-headed cowbird nest parasitism were documented. The project was conducted between April and July, 1981. Thirty-five territorial males or pairs were located, usually at sites dominated by stands of young willows or honey mesquite. Salt cedar, arrowweed, and giant reed were apparently avoided as nesting habitat. The species did not appear to occupy all available suitable habitat. Cowbirds were found to have a negative effect on vireo nesting success, parasitizing five of nine nests located. In addition, cowbird males were more often associated spatially with vireo territories than expected on the basis of chance alone.27446:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27446Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:29:41 -08001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-28 - The status and distribution of the great gray owl in California was investigated between Jun 1 and October 31, 1979. A total of 70 days were spent in the field during the survey period and 12,300 miles were traveled throughout the owl’s possible range in California. Seven great gray owls were found during field studies, but the state population is estimated at between 30 and 40 birds. Data used to assess the current status of the species came from specimen material, screened sight records, and observations by the author. Although data on the historical status of the owl in California are poor, there are good indications that a population decline has taken place. Current distribution is in the Sierra Nevada with recent sightings from the Yosemite area to Huntington Lake. Great gray owls in California prefer old-growth mixed conifer and red fir forests for breeding. Preferred hunting areas appear to be montane meadows. Only five confirmed nests have ever been found, all of which were located in the tops of large broken snags greater than 24 inches dbh. Loss of large snags and old growth forest surrounding montane meadows is viewed as a possible reason for a decline in numbers of this species. Data on food taken in California is limited to 12 prey items (six species). 27432:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27432Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:45:01 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 82-19 - The Central Valley wintering population of greater sandhill cranes nests in eastern and south-central Oregon and northern California. During spring of 1981, surveys were conducted in California to determine the number of nesting pairs and ascertain changes in pair numbers is selected nesting regions in the past decade. A total of 191 pairs were located in the state in 1981. The largest single nesting area was in the Surprise Valley, Modoc County, where 44 pairs were located. Nesting pairs occupied suitable breeding habitat in Modoc, Lassen, Siskiyou, and Plumas counties. Of the 191 pairs located, 79 percent were found on private land. Considering that there is a continuing trend toward conversion of native meadows that cranes depend on for breeding to more intensive agricultural crops, and the fact that many acres of suitable habitat are unavailable to cranes due to the levels of summer grazing, the birds may suffer a population decline in California. Monitoring populations and agricultural practices will be necessary to determine the magnitude of threats posed to cranes nesting on private lands. If present trends continue, the greater sandhill crane may be considered for listing under the California Endangered Species Act. 27440:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27440Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:44:49 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Division Administrative Report 88-12 - The willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii) was formerly a common summer resident in California, breeding in riparian willow thickets. Extirpated from much of its range in California, this species is under review for listing as endangered by the State of California. During 1986, of 125 sites visited, 96 singing male willow flycatchers were detected at 30 sites. An additional 22 birds were documented by independent observers. Willow flycatchers tended to prefer wet meadows, inhabited meadows larger than 8 hectares, and virtually all occupied sites possessed willow thickets of at least 2 meters height. 14580:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=14580Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:37:36 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Division Administrative Report 88-15 - A total of 111 bank swallow colonies consisting of 45,045 nesting burrows were located in California during the 1987 breeding season. The Sacramento Valley held 75% of these burrows while 21% were located in the Great Basin and 4% occurred in coastal regions. No bank swallow colonies were found in southern California despite numerous historical records prior to 1933. Bank swallow nesting habitats in all regions are threatened by riprapping, various water development projects and by human harassment. These factors have played a major role in the extirpation of the species from southern California. Recommendations include listing the bank swallow as “Threatened” under the California Endangered Species Act, protecting nesting colonies from human harassment, and developing a habitat management plan bank swallow populations found along the Sacramento and Feather rivers.27383:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27383Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:33:29 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-02 - The authors collated published and unpublished information from 1892 to 1987 on the marbled murrelet in California to determine past and present status of the breeding population and to document conservation problems. The state breeding population size has been reestimated at 1,650 birds for the years 1979-1980. One nest was found in an old-growth Douglas-fir and 17 fledglings have been found in coastal forests. From 1904 to 1987, murrelets were detected at 67 inland localities mainly in three regions: 1) Del Norte and northern Humboldt counties; 2) south-central Humboldt County; and 3) southern San Mateo and northern Santa Cruz counties. Murrelets have been detected in old-growth forests during the breeding and non-breeding seasons in 17 years since 1946 at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, in nine years since 1959 at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and in four years since 1956 at Portola State Park. Two areas of concentration of murrelets at sea have been identified: 1) the Oregon border to Eureka; and, 2) Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz. These areas are adjacent to known nesting regions, although small numbers of birds occurred at sea and may breed between these areas. Cases of loss of nesting habitat in old-growth forests have been recorded in northern and central California. Mortality from gill-net fishing has been recorded in Monterey Bay from 1979 to 1987. Mortality from large oil spills and chronic oiling has been recorded in central and southern California. The current small population size of marbled murrelets in California probably reflects a population decline due mainly to the extensive loss of old-growth forests by logging over the past century. With continued logging and eventual liquidation of old-growth forests outside of parks, continued population decline and possible extinction is expected by the authors unless extensive management action is taken in the near future.27382:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27382Fri, 25 Feb 2011 07:50:08 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2011-01 - Increasingly, land and water managers are faced with incorporating the projected effects of climate change into their decision-making process. Published information on the effects of climate change is vast and growing rapidly. Unfortunately, there are relatively few resources available that synthesize information about climate change as it relates to wildlife habitat. To address this need for a synthesis, an ecoregional summary of the projected effects on climate change on wildlife habitat in California was created. Because California is a large and topographically diverse state, the effects of climate change will vary geographically. Additionally, conservation planning is typically done at, or in the context of, ecologically defined regions. To address this variability and conservation need, projected effects of climate change are summarized for the ten terrestrial ecoregions used in the California Bird Species of Special Concern (Shuford and Gardali 2008) and two additional marine ecoregions. This organization allows local land and water managers to access information that is relevant to their specific ecoregions. In some cases, reference is made to one of California’s ten hydrologic regions which are different from the terrestrial ecoregions.27195:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27195Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:31:01 -08002011-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-13 - The deteriorating salt evaporation ponds at the Moss Landing Wildlife Management Area served as a communal roost site for thousands of brown pelicans during July through December 1987. The peak high count was obtained in late July when a minimum of 4,355 pelicans was present during a morning census. Roosting populations declined greatly soon after this and were relatively low through the expected peak in fall. The habitat of the study site was unusual relative to other night roosts used by pelicans on the U.S. Pacific coast. The roosting patterns and management problems observed were also unique and complex. Brown pelican seasonal and diurnal patterns of occupation, within-roost habitat use, and frequency of disturbance at the salt ponds suggest that the quality of the roost has decreased since 1982 and will continue to do so unless active management to enhance the security of the site takes place. The salt ponds roost should be designated and treated as critical nonbreeding habitat for brown pelicans.27041:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27041Tue, 15 Feb 2011 16:39:54 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-11 - In the Southern California Bight, California brown pelicans nested on West Anacapa Island and Santa Barbara Island, California and on Islas los Coronados, Baja California, Mexico, during 1987. The total estimated breeding effort was 7,300 nesting attempts, from which approximately 4,900 young fledged; the productivity was 0.67 young fledged per nesting attempt. On Anacapa Island, 6,326 nesting attempts produced 4,257 chicks. This was the largest breeding effort ever recorded for Anacapa and marked the third consecutive year in which over 5,000 nesting attmepts occurred there. Productivity at Anacapa was 0.67 per nest, the same as it was in 1986. The 1987 breeding effort was characterized by high chick mortality (34%) and high nest abandonment (51%) rates. Egg-laying on Anacapa began in late January and continued over a four-month period to late May. For the third consecutive year, Santa Barbara Island also had a relatively large breeding colony of 841 pairs which produced 641 fledged young (0.76 productivity). Breeding on Santa Barbara Island was much earlier and more synchronous than on Anacapa; egg-laying occurred between mid-December 1986 and mid-February 1987. Continuing a downward trend since 1979, nesting on Islas los Coronados in 1987 was greatly diminished and produced very few young. The prolonged detrimental effects of human disturbance on the nesting success of on Coronado Norte clearly posed a threat to that island's breeding population.27032:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=27032Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:21:09 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 73-5 (also 73-19) - During 1973, 31 nesting territories of the southern bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus leucocephalus) were studied in California. Nineteen pairs were present and 24 young were produced, or 1.26 young per active nest. This level of productivity is considered satisfactory in comparison with other populations. Twenty-five territories were observed in both 1972 and 1973; seven of these sites were inactive in 1973. Human disturbance, mainly recreational activity and logging operations at nesting sites and foraging areas, are among the major causes of territory abandonment. Based on evaluation of human disturbance present at each site, six of the sites active in 1973 are in immediate danger of abandonment. The possibility that an abandoned territory will be reoccupied is poor with existing disturbance conditions. 3539:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3539Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:03:53 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-18 - Nesting territory use by adult golden eagles was sampled in California during the 1974 reproductive season. Two hundred and thirty territories were visited. Adult pairs were observed at 139 nesting territories and single adults were observed at 46 locations where one or more nesting structures were known to exist. There were 61 young fledged at 44 nests sampled for reproductive success. This averaged to 1.39 fledged young per territory; the number of fledged young counted compared favorably with studies done elsewhere. It is estimated that 500 pairs of adult golden eagle pairs are using nesting territories in California at this time.26045:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26045Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:01:41 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 70-02 - Waterbirds were counted twice monthly at Morro Bay starting September 1, 1966 through August 15, 1967. 26032:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=26032Thu, 30 Dec 2010 14:21:01 -08001970-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationInland Fisheries Division - The Department of Fish and Game (Department) prepared a status evaluation of the flat-tailed horned lizard in response to a listing petition received from Dr. Wilbur Mayhew and Ms. Barbara Carlson. The Department recommended that the Commission find that the flat-tailed horned lizard meets the definition of a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act. Habitat destruction and modification from off highway vehicular use, geothermal development, sand and gravel extraction, road and powerline construction, as well as suspected overexploitation by collectors were listed as threats to this species. 21634:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21634Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:48:16 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - The Citizen Nongame Advisory Committee was established in 1975 by the Director of the California Department of Fish and Game as an independent body to provide advice on the Department's rapidly expanding role in management of nongame wildlife. This report covers the activities of the Committee from September 1979 through June 1982.25805:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=25805Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:10:14 -08001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - The third report of the Citizen Nongame Advisory Committee was prepared in 1979. It shifted from the broad recommendations which marked the first and second reports to specific recommendations concerning nongame wildlife. 25889:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=25889Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:10:00 -08001979-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - The second annual report of the Citizen Nongame Advisory Committee focused on recommendations concerning legal classifications of nongame wildlife, evaluation of the state of the endangered and rare species program in the Department and made recommendations for implementation of key points. 25897:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=25897Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:09:46 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-18 - Mitigation measures for the Swainson's hawk specific to the Central Valley are presented. 10886:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10886Tue, 14 Dec 2010 07:35:24 -08001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-19 - The gray wolf (Canis lupus) was extirpated as a resident species from California more than 100 years ago. This brief review describes what is known about the former status of the species in the State of California.25186:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=25186Tue, 14 Dec 2010 07:34:44 -08001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportInland Fisheries Endangered Species Program Special Publication 80-5 - Agricultural development has eliminated the giant garter snake from the southern San Joaquin Valley. Its present range extends from Fresno County north to the Central Valley in the vicinity of Gridley, Butte County. Current land management practices where it stll exists pose no visible threat, thus the subspecies appears to be in no immediate danger of becoming extinct. The history of its distribution and current status is discussed.24885:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24885Mon, 29 Nov 2010 07:41:58 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - This report describes the results of the fourth year of a multi-year study that is attempting to most efficiently trap and band tricolored blackbirds by: 1) trapping and banding only adult and recently fledged birds, 2) trapping in multiple locations from the southern San Joaquin Valley to the central Sacramento Valley, and 3) using only federal aluminum bands to maximize the number of birds banded in a field season. These methods are intended to most efficiently accumulate information on patterns of movements and life history attributes. Despite several decades of field work, relatively little is known about the movements of tricolored blackbirds within and among years, nor have basic life history traits (age-specific rate of mortality, life expectancy) been quantitatively estimated. Although large numbers of tricolored blackbirds have previously been banded, previous investigators relied upon the banding of nestlings and movement data were obtained by shooting banded birds at their breeding colonies. The use of aluminum bands on nestlings has among its potential shortcomings the high mortality rate of nestlings, with consequent reduction in the rate of recapture or recovery. The individualized marking and subsequent recapture of large numbers of adult and fledgling birds may provide information on movements, life history attributes, age structure, site fidelity, and longevity and provide essential guidance for conservation actions.24103:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24103Mon, 11 Oct 2010 12:15:26 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - This study had two primary objectives: to conduct roost surveys for C. townsendii in two parts of California where distributional information was most limited or lacking, and to obtain information on roosting and foraging ecology in two distinctly different habitats. This project was urgently needed because 1) recent California Department of Fish and Game surveys (conducted in 1987-1991) documented significant population declines in most surveyed areas, 2) distribution was still unknown in areas with suitable roosting habitat, and 3) the impact of various land management practices (e .g. prescribed fire, timber harvest, agriculture, and grazing) on foraging behavior was unknown. 24003:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=24003Mon, 04 Oct 2010 07:08:59 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report R5-TR-010 - This conservation assessment provides a science-based, comprehensive assessment of the status of the Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator) and its habitat. It identifies and evaluates key risk factors affecting viability and describes general conservation options. The current distribution, abundance and population trend for Sierra Nevada red fox are uncertain, but there is little evidence of increase or expansion. It is unclear whether this native mountain fox persists outside of the Lassen Peak region. Posted by permission of U.S.D.A. Forest Service.23994:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=23994Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:12:39 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-02 - The Department reported on the status of the bank swallow along the Sacramento River. The 1996 survey yielded 5,770 breeding pairs. The ten year average (1986-1996) was 8,790 pairs. The Department considered the species to be experiencing a population decline of 56% of baseline on the river.10153:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10153Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:38:51 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-05 - The purpose of this study was to examine the California distribution, habitat associations, and current status of four poorly known bat species considered Mammal Species of Special Concern: three molossids (the western mastiff bat, Eumops perotis, the pocketed free-tail bat, Nyctinomops femorosaccus, and the big free-tailed bat, Nyctinomops macrotis), and one vespertilionid (the spotted bat, Euderma macula tum). All four are cliff-dwelling species that have substantially overlapping distributions. Survey methods for these species, which share the unusual trait among bats that their echolocation falls largely within the range of human hearing, were explored. 2913:7https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2913Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:38:15 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-09 - An estimated 1,573 bobcats were taken during the 1996 hunting year and the 1996-97 trapping season. Trappers took 1,066 bobcats, and hunters took 429. The total take was an increase of 62 percent from the 1995-96 year. The average take per successful trapper increased, and the number of bobcat trappers increased from 62 to 94. The average pelt price increased from $33.66 in the 1995-96 season to $75.24 in 1996-97. 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 U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services records.2918:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2918Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:37:45 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-10 - Two hundred eighty-two trapping licenses were sold in California during the 1996-97 trapping season, an increase of 9 percent from the 257 licenses sold in the 1995-96 season. Estimated revenue received by trappers from the sale of furs during the 1996-97 season, based on average prices paid by fur buyers, was $136,830. This is 375 percent higher than the estimated revenue of $36,507 received in 1995-96. Bobcats continued to be the most economically important animals, providing 42 percent of the total value of California’s furs, followed by muskrat, coyote, and raccoon. 2917:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2917Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:37:23 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2002-05 - Riparian brush rabbits (Sylvilagus bachmani riparius) were trapped in the wild in the South Delta, San Joaquin County, California, and moved in November 2001 to a 1.24-acre (0.5 ha)pen near Lodi that contained natural vegetation. Subsequent monitoring of the confined population provided information on reproduction, survivorship, growth, and health. Forty-nine captive-born rabbits were released at the San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge, 18 of which died, mostly by predation, though two died of radio-collar accidents. Health exams, necropsy of dead rabbits, and tests for diseases showed that the riparian brush rabbit population in the South Delta, including rabbits in confinement at the controlled propagation facility, was robust and healthy. Rabbits did well in captivity, gaining weight and reproducing sooner and at a rate greater than witnessed in the wild. Also, the wild population of riparian brush rabbits and woodrats (Neotoma fuscipes riparia) at Caswell Memorial State Park was censused during January 2002.2909:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2909Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:35:56 -07002002-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2005-01 - Results of 2004 monitoring of breeding California least terns (Sterna antillarum browni)are presented. An estimated 6354-6805 breeding pairs established 7977 nests and produced 1351-1624 fledglings at 48 locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.20-0.26. Three large sites(LA Harbor, Camp Pendleton and Batiquitos Lagoon)in southern California experienced high levels of chick mortality. Starvation was believed to be the cause of 33-57% death rate of chicks. The main predators of least tern chicks were coyotes (Canis latrans) and American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), accounting for up to 676 and 1022 deaths, respectively.2899:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2899Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:35:28 -07002005-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-02 - Addendum to SCARP report 2003-02. Description of condor feather growth, evaluation of lead assay methods, analysis of molted condor feathers in the field to determine lead exposure are examined. High resolution detection of lead during feather growth in condor is possible.2900:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2900Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:34:55 -07002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2003-01 - Breeding gull-billed terns are confined to only two locations in southern California, Salton Sea and San Diego Bay. In recent years, San Diego gull-billed terns have been reported to prey on chicks of endangered California least terns (Sterna antillarum browni)and snowy plovers (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus). In this study, observed food items in decreasing order of frequency included mole crabs, small fish, lizards and small chicks. Because of constraints posed by the size of the gull-billed tern, the authors suggest that predation on least terns and snowy plovers is limited to the youngest, and therefore smallest, chicks, an age-class that typically experiences the lowest probability of survival. 2904:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2904Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:34:18 -07002003-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-09 - The number of ferrets illegally owned in California has never been properly assessed, yet some pet ferret groups have routinely cited estimates of this animal’s abundance in discussions about matters of legislation, wildlife conservation, and public health concerns. Since the mid 1980s, organizations promoting the legalization of ferrets for pet keeping have claimed that hundreds of thousands of illegally owned ferrets are already in California. Some groups have portrayed domestic ferrets as the “Pet of the 90s,” and with numbers approaching 10 million in the United States, they claim, ferrets have now become the third most numerous or popular companion animal in the nation. However, nationwide pet ownership surveys do not support these claims, indicating that approximately 800,000 pet ferrets existed in the entire nation in 1996. This implies, therefore, that in recent years, there have been fewer than--possibly far fewer than--l00,000 illegally owned ferrets in California. 2912:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2912Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:33:45 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2002-02 - Substantial increases in the populations of Common Ravens (Corvus corax)and American Crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos)have been documented in California over the last 30 years. Populations of Steller’s Jays have generally remained stable over this period and show significant increase in northwestern California. Corvids have been documented preying on the nests or young of threatened or endangered species in California. Techniques employed to protect threatened and endangered species from corvid predation can be lumped into three general categories: lethal removal, behavioral modification, and habitat modification. 2907:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2907Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:28:48 -07002002-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-28 - California least tern chicks were banded in breeding colonies in California in 1977 as part of ongoing annual banding studies on this endangered bird species. Banders entered colonies late in the breeding season and marked chicks with standard Service leg bands and color bands. From June 2 through August 8, 1977, 297 chicks were banded at 12 colonies from Santa Barbara County to San Diego County. Approximately 1,222 total least terns have been banded in California since 1954. Observations of banded birds yielded information about post-fledging dispersal and feeding areas. 22847:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22847Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:39:55 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-08 - This report was prepared in response to a petition received by the Fish and Game Commission (FGC) from Dr. L. Richard Mewaldt of the Coyote Creek Riparian Station to list the Suisun song sparrow as an endangered species. On August 31, 1988, the FGC determined that the petitioned action might be warranted and advanced the species to candidacy; the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) undertook review and evaluation of the petition and prepared a status review. Using the best available scientific information, the DFG recommended that the Suisun song sparrow be listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). This recomendation was based on documentation of extensive habitat modification and destruction in the Suisun marsh and environs, small population size, and population isolation. 22846:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22846Fri, 06 Aug 2010 14:19:59 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 71-14 - A small colony of California least terns was observed daily at Sunset Aquatic Regional Park, Huntington Beach, Orange County, California during the 1971 nesting season. The colony contained 23 nests, 53 eggs were laid and 42 of these hatched. All chicks were banded immediately after hatching. Approximately 33% to 50% of the young fledged. 22844:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22844Fri, 06 Aug 2010 11:11:34 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 90-03 - The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) breeding population in California has been monitored annually since 1970. Location of breeding territories, breeding status, and reproductive success are reported annually by agency biologists and private researchers in accordance with standard survey procedures. The survey data are used in tracking statewide population trends, and they provide important information needed in local conservation, management, and protection efforts. The number of known territories increased from more than 30 during the early 1970s to 108 by 1990, and the number of territories occupied each year has increased steadily since the late 1970s, reaching 93 in 1990. The breeding population has been expanding into former breeding range since the early 1980s. Productivity during 1986-1990 has been good, averaging one young per occupied territory.22731:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22731Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:40:32 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-03 - Surveys were conducted in the San Bernardino Mountains during 1993 to estimate territory occupancy, population trends, and demographic characteristics of the spotted owl population. Owls were found at 89 sites while 54 previously occupied sites were vacant. Five new owl territories were located during 1993. the empirical estimate of crude density was 0.117 owls/km sq. Eighty-five percent of 55 pairs checked prior to June 1st nested. Fifty-five young were fledged by 36 successful pairs. The 1993 turnover rates were 0.35 and 0.34 for females and males, respectively. Replacement rates were 0.38 and 0.58 for females and males, respectively. Survivorship estimates were 0.313 for owls in their first year of life and 0.757 for both sexes and all ages greater than one year. An additional 67 owls were banded in 1993 for future demographic study.22725:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22725Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:44:39 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00BrochureNongame Bird and Mammal Program Report 94-04 - An overview of the status of the non-native red fox in California is presented. Red fox populations, introductions and range, threats to native wildlife and control measures are discussed.22712:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22712Fri, 30 Jul 2010 12:19:16 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Program Report 93-12 - This report was prepared in response to a petition received by the Fish and Game Commission (FGC) from Mr. Donald W. Murphy, Director, California Department of Parks and Recreation to list the riparian brush rabbit as an endangered species. Following a determination by the FGC that the petitioned act may be warranted, the Department of Fish and Game (Department) undertook a review of the petition. Based on the best scientific information available, the Department found that the riparian brush rabbit was in serious danger of extinction in California because of extreme population isolation due to habitat modification and destruction, flooding, severe predation by both native and non-native predators, competition with the desert cottontail and other factors.22684:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22684Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:28:05 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00PresentationPower Point presentation - The presentation outlines why bats occur in mines and caves then provides details on the status of a lethal bat disease called White Nose Syndrome (WNS) from discovery and early history, through geographic progression, pathology and transmission. It closes with discussion on planning for WNS in California.22682:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=22682Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:03:26 -07002010-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2003-03 - Appendices - Part II of II: Appendices for the Status review of Xantus's murrelet in California.21817:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21817Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:29:45 -07002003-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2003-03 - Part I of II: A petition to list the Xantus's murrelet as a threatened species was recieved by the Fish and Game Commission in April 2002. Following evaluation, the Commission directed the Department of Fish and Game to undertake s status review of the species. The Department recommended listing the Xantus's murrelet as threatened based on a small breeding population in California, documented population decline of approximately 30% from 1977 to 1991 on Santa Barbara island, low productivity, vulnerability to oil spills, predation, and impacts from artificial lights and human disturbance.21816:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21816Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:02:06 -07002003-01-01T00:00:00ArticleSpecial Wildlife Investigations 70-11 - The white-tailed kite, a California raptor once considered to be on the verge of extinction, is on the way back. Evidence points to a noticeable increase in numbers of individuals and extension of range of the white-tailed kite in recent years. The Department of Fish and Game initiated a study of kite populations in the California delta region of the State including color banding.21553:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21553Tue, 22 Jun 2010 11:04:31 -07001970-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2003-02 - A review of the causes of mortality in California condors was reviewed. Emphasis on the magnitude of threat from lead exposure in the environment within California was examined. Compilation of data on mortality, movements of condors in the field, feeding, monitoring efforts, blood sampling, and lead exposure data for other species within condor range in California are reported. 21550:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=21550Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:10:17 -07002003-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 84-02 - Thirteen species of owls occur in California. Of these, 2 species are endangered and 4 are considered Species of Special Concern. Owl research and management is generally lacking in the State.19230:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=19230Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:32:22 -07001984-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-14 - The presence of eight species of furbearers was documented in the Webber Lake area of Sierra County from November 1977 through March 1978. Baited hair snags collected 32 hair samples from marten (24) and fisher (8) and confirmed the presence of these species. Ermine, raccoon, bear, coyote, bobcat and muskrat were identified in the area through direct sightings and observation of sign. This study did not verify the presence of wolverine in the study area nor did it provide any density or home range data on those furbearers present. However, marten, fisher and coyote sightings and hair samples came from numerous and widespread locations. 18545:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=18545Wed, 07 Apr 2010 08:19:31 -07001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportInland Fisheries Division - The results of a two-year study to develop baseline population data and procedures for monitoring populations of the flat-tailed horned lizard are presented. Capture-recapture methods and radio-telemetry were used in the field and lab and field experiments were used to evaluate the use of scat for determining relative abundance among sites. Males and females did not differ in frequnecy of occurrence, body size, or growth rate. Two cohorts of hatchlings were produced each year. Hatchlings grew rapidly and reached adult size the following spring. The von Bertalanffy nonlinear growth model described the growth trajectory better than either logistic-by-length or logistic-by-weight models. Reliable methods for attaching radio transmitters to lizards were developed for the long-term monitoring of individuals. Survival ranged from 55% in mid-summer to 100% in mid-winter. Known mortality was attributed to four species of predators and motor vehicles. The active period extended from mid-February through mid-November. Winter dormancy, hibernation, was spent in shallow burrows that were excavated by the lizards. The foraging strategy of this species is intermediate to that of sit-and-wait predators and active foragers. Home range size was much larger than that of other lizards of similar body size. Size of male and female home range did not differ. Flat-tailed horned lizards prefer sandy substrate, and two species of perennial shrubs were used preferentially.17247:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=17247Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:42:13 -08001992-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-18 - In 1989, 1240 pairs of California least terns bred at 28 sites in California, about the same number as in 1988 (1253 pairs). The number of breeding sites was the same as in 1988 but several sites were new this year and several used in 1988 were not used in 1989. Productivity was way down, with an estimated 764 fledglings (fledgling/pair ratio=0.59)as comparied to 1130 in 1988 (f/p ratio = 0.9). Mean clutch size was reduced, an indicator of problems with food supply. Nesting by younger adults (ages 2 & 3 years) was reduced. The major cause of egg and chick loss was predation with American kestrel, northern harrier, American crow, striped skunk, and ground squirrel causing the most serious losses. Despite major predator control programs at several colonies in San Diego County, fledgling production was low. Human disturbance continued to harm the colony at Tijuana slough. 17246:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=17246Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:03:55 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-17 - A study was done at the California least tern colony at Venice Beach to devise a more accurate method of assessing fledgling production than has been available in the past. One week after the first fledgling was seen, a count was made of adults and fledglings in the evening roosting flock. Thereafter, counts were done weekly for 9 weeks. The flock increased in number until it peaked on 13 July, then dropped sharply as migration got underway. Chicks were banded by age, using a different color weekly so their ages could be determined post-fledging. Fledglings from the first two hatching weeks were mostly gone by the 4th post-fledging week. Color bands on fledglings proved difficult to see, however, and the kind of detailed information sought on length of time the fledglings stayed in the area was not obtained. By counting the fledglings at 2-3 weeks post-fledging, and then again 3 weeks later, overlap was avoided. However, migration has usually begun by mid-July and the presence of fledglings from other colonies could become a factor. Two evening counts can be made by site monitors without difficulty at most colonies and the method is recommended for future seasons.17245:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=17245Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:53:08 -08001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-16 - In 1988, approximately 1,253 pairs of least terns nested in California at 28 sites. This is an increase of 300 pairs from 1987 primarily due to the addition of a contingent of young first-time breeders to the population. Productivity was high with a mean fledgling/pair ratio of 0.9 for the state as compared with 0.67 in 1987. Predation was a major cause of egg and chick loss. Red fox, American kestrel, northern harrier, American crow and skunks were identified as the predators causing the most serious losses.16944:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16944Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:31:53 -08001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 79-01 - The least tern census of 1978 yielded 800 pairs of nesting birds located at 27 sites. This is the highest population size estimate since the surveys began but increases from the previous year may be attributable to variation in survey method. Nesting success was good in Alameda, Los Angeles, and Orange counties but poor, generally, in San Diego County.16943:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16943Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:55:57 -08001979-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-15 - In 1976, 664 pairs of least terns nested in California at 20 sites. Breeding success was good as evidenced by the numbers of fledglings produced.16942:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16942Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:48:29 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-09 - Approximately 600 pairs of least terns nested in California in 1975. Eighteen sites were occupied; 3 of these sites were not previously used. The 1975 season was extremely long, starting early and ending late. Fledging success was high.16941:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16941Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:43:04 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-01 - California least terns were censused in California in 1973. The estimated breeding population was 624 pairs. Nesting activity was documented at 19 sites. Additional information on the status of the species in 1971 and 1972 was provided.16939:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16939Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:36:35 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 71-03 - The California least tern is an endangered species. The population has declined due to unrelenting human developmnet and disturbance at nesting sites. Fifteen nesting sites were used in 1969 or 1970, one in San Mateo County, 2 in Orange County and 12 in San Diego County. Two of the San Diego sites were not used in 1970. In 1970, 300 pairs used these sites. Several sites are slated for development in the near term. Site protection and creation of new secure nesting areas are the highest priority to save this species from extirpation.16938:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16938Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:19:45 -08001971-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Program Report 93-11 - In 1992, approximately 2,106 pairs of California least terns nested at 38 sites along the coast of California, from the San Francisco Bay south to the Mexican border. This represents a 15% increase in the breeding population size from 1991 and is directly attributable to management effort on behalf of the species. The statewide population total is the highest ever recorded since systematic monitoring began in 1973. The increase in the number of nesting sites from 1991 (34) and 1990 (30) reflects both the expansion of terns into new areas adjacent to established sites and the return of terns to historic nesting sites. Fledgling production was estimated at 1,362-1,448 in 1992, lower than numbers produced in 1991 and 1990. Low fledgling production per pair in 1992 (.65-.69) was attributed to both predation and the deleterious effects of an El Nino condition on food availability.16937:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16937Mon, 04 Jan 2010 09:37:52 -08001993-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2001-01 - An estimated 3,451 to 3,674 pairs of California least terns nested at 36 nesting sites in 1999 and produced an estimated 671 to 711 fledglings. These estimates result in 0.18 to 0.21 fledglings per pair, the lowest productivity recorded since statewide censuses were initiated in 1976. Statewide pair estimates decreased 11% from 1998 values, but fledgling estimates declined by 74.9% due to exceedingly high predation and chick mortality at many sites. Over 30% of the nesting population was concentrated at two sites (Mission Bay Mariner’s Point and Santa Margarita North Beach); ten sites supported a combined total of 76.6% of statewide pairs. One site (Los Angeles Harbor) contributed nearly 24% of the state’s fledglings in 1999; Los Angeles Harbor and three other sites (NAS Alameda, Ormond Beach and Mission Bay Mariner’s Point) produced over 50% of 1999 statewide fledglings. Four sites that supported least tern pairs in 1998 reported no nesting in 1999 (Batiquitos Lagoon W-1 and E-2; Mission Bay Fiesta Island, Mission Bay South Shores); four additional sites (Venice Beach, Seal Beach, Bolsa Chica, Chula Vista Wildlife Refuge) supported nesting but had no productivity in 1999. The 1999 pair estimates were 18% lower than corresponding statewide nest numbers; in 1998 they differed by only 9%. Renesting may have occurred far less frequently in 1999 than in 1998 due to far higher predation (16.5% of all eggs and 7.7% of chicks hatched) and other factors contributing to chick mortality (26.5% of all hatched eggs) in 1999. The greatest egg losses in 1999 were attributed to coyotes, crows and ravens; highest chick/fledgling losses were to American kestrels, coyotes and peregrine falcons. Chick mortality due to factors other than predation was 26.5%, higher than 1997 and 1998 is believed to be related to prey deficiencies and unknown factors. 16388:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=16388Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:16:46 -08002001-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 71-02 - The Morro Bay kangaroo rat (Dipodomys heermanni morrensis) was reported in 1960 to occupy approximately 4.8 square miles in San Luis Obispo County at the south end of Morro Bay. Stewart and Roest (1960) studied and delineated the extent of the range of the Morro Bay kangaroo rat. In their study, three trapping quadrats were maintained for three nights, the results of which provided a comparative base for the present study. In all three areas in 1971 substantially lower densities were found and within their total range the population of this endangered mammal was found to be substantially reduced from that in 1957. The present study estimates the total population to be 3,000 kangaroo rats on 1.75 square miles as compared to 8,000 over 4.8 square miles in 1957.15268:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=15268Mon, 21 Sep 2009 12:22:21 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-05 - The Endangered Species Recovery Council submitted a petition to the Fish and Game Commission on May 26, 2006 seeking to delist the California brown pelican under the California Endangered Species Act. As per Fish and Game Code, the Department of Fish and Game evaluated the petition and supporting information and found there was sufficient information to indicate the petitioned action may be warranted. This report documents those findings.15084:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=15084Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:20:25 -07002006-01-01T00:00:00ReportInland Fisheries Administrative Report No. 72-2 - The herpetofauna of California is rich in numbers and diversity, but many endemic reptiles and amphibians are declining in abundance due to collecting and habitat destruction. Recent legislation and Fish and Game Commission action protects threatened forms including seven species and subspecies of salamanders, one toad, one lizard and four snakes. In addition, there are special regulations protecting the desert tortoise. These comprise 7% of the 194 different species and subspecies that live in California. This review incorporates suggestions made by authorities on certain groups and proposes the addition of one salamander, four lizard and two snake species or subspecies to those receiving protection. Present information suggests that guidelines need to be developed for the protection of nongame wildlife. Immediate action is required for several species and subspecies that are in danger of extinction in the near future. Habitat alteration is the primary threat to most of these endangered animals.14702:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=14702Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:22:49 -07001971-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 86-28 - The historical distribution of the riparian brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani riparius) was probably within riparian communities in the floodplains of the Merced, Stanislaus, Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers in Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin counties. Remaining natural communities in these areas were inventoried for presence of the riparian brush rabbit and assessed for their suitability as habitat. Twelve sites were trapped for three-day periods. Only desert cottontails (S. audubonii) were captured. Riparian brush rabbits were found only in Caswell Memorial State Park along the Stanislaus River. Comparison of characteristics of the plant communities were made at occupied and unoccupied sites. Sites occupied by riparian brush rabbits had significantly fewer willows (Salix sp.) in both the understory and canopy than other sites, more ground litter than sites occupied by desert cottontails, and a higher area of roses (Rosa californica) than sites unoccupied by either species. These differences indicate that sites not inhabited by riparian brush rabbit are subjected to greater flooding and represent earlier successional stages.14662:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=14662Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:56:39 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationGeneral Technical Report - The Center for Biological Diversity submitted a petition to list the pacific fisher (Martes pennanti) as a threatened or endangered species to the State of California. The Department of Fish and Game prepared a report evaluating the petition and found the action not warranted. 10741:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10741Mon, 06 Apr 2009 09:06:27 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - To halt or reverse population declines of at-risk native birds, California Department of Fish and Game initiated a process to set conservation and research priorities by revising the initial California Bird Species of Special Concern document(Remsen 1978), which subjectively described declining or vulnerable species. Revision was needed to identify currently at-risk taxa that may warrant listing under the California Endangered Species Act as threatened or endangered if remedial actions are not taken. Working with an advisory committee, we considered 283 bird taxa as nominees for the special concern list, using published data, expert opinion, public input, and national and regional lists of priority or focal species for major conservation initiatives. Nominated taxa were scored for seven objective criteria: population size, range size, population trend, range trend, population concentration, percent of range or population within California, and threats. The Bird Species of Special Concern list was then prepared by evaluating taxa and assigning those qualifying to three levels of priority using both linear and categorical ranking schemes. This ranking process is dynamic, as it allows for scores to be updated as new data become available. The resulting prioritized list consists of 39 species and 24 subspecies or geographic populations. Although unranked, an additional 11 taxa also qualified either because they have been extirpated from the state or are listed as federally, but not state, threatened or endangered. Species accounts accompany the report and are posted separately. 10513:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10513Mon, 02 Mar 2009 12:40:26 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the yellow-headed blackbird documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10507:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10507Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:35:40 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the tricolored blackbird documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10506:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10506Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:32:55 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the Kern red-winged blackbird documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10505:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10505Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:31:20 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the Channel island song sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10504:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10504Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:29:16 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the Alameda song sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10503:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10503Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:27:08 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the Samuels song sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10489:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10489Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:25:24 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the Suisun song sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10478:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10478Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:23:32 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the song sparrow ("Modesto" population) documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10461:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10461Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:21:32 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the grasshopper sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10460:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10460Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:18:33 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for the large-billed Savannah sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historical and recent range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10451:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10451Mon, 02 Mar 2009 10:13:55 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Bryant's Savannah sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10434:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10434Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:14:28 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Oregon vesper sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10433:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10433Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:12:52 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Santa Cruz Island rufous-crowned sparrow documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10432:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10432Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:11:21 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for San Clemente spotted towhee documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10430:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10430Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:09:27 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for summer tanager documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10429:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10429Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:07:51 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for yellow-breasted chat documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10428:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10428Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:06:43 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for San Francisco common yellowthroat documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10427:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10427Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:05:38 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Sonora yellow warbler documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10426:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10426Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:03:15 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for yellow warbler documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10425:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10425Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:01:50 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Lucy's warbler documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10424:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10424Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:00:30 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for LeConte's thrasher (San Joaquin population) documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10423:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10423Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:59:18 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for crissal thrasher documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10421:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10421Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:57:38 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Bendire's thrasher documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10420:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10420Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:56:28 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Clark's marsh wren documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10419:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10419Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:55:01 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for San Diego cactus wren documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10418:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10418Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:53:37 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for purple martin documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10417:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10417Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:51:51 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Catalina Hutton's vireo documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10416:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10416Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:50:29 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for gray vireo documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10415:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10415Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:49:22 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for island loggerhead shrike documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10414:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10414Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:48:20 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for loggerhead shrike (mainland populations) documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10413:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10413Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:46:55 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for vermilion flycatcher documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10412:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10412Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:45:26 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for olive-sided flycatcher documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10411:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10411Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:44:13 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Vaux's swift documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10410:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10410Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:35:25 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for black swift documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10409:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10409Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:33:58 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for short-eared owl documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10408:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10408Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:32:36 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for long-eared owl documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10407:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10407Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:31:16 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for California spotted owl documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10406:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10406Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:30:11 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for tufted puffin documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10404:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10404Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:27:25 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Cassin's auklet documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10403:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10403Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:25:53 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for black skimmer documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10402:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10402Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:24:47 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for black tern documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10401:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10401Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:23:41 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for gull-billed tern documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10400:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10400Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:22:37 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for mountain plover documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10399:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10399Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:21:15 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for snowy plover (interior population)documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10398:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10398Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:19:58 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for lesser sandhill crane documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10397:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10397Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:18:09 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for yellow rail documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10396:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10396Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:14:47 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for northern goshawk documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10394:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10394Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:13:27 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for northern harrier documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10393:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10393Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:12:00 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for wood stork documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10392:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10392Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:09:52 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for least bittern documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10390:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10390Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:08:13 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for American white pelican documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10389:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10389Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:06:40 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for black storm-petrel documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10388:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10388Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:04:52 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for ashy storm-petrel documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10386:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10386Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:03:19 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for fork-tailed storm-petrel documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10385:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10385Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:01:19 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Catalina California quail documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10384:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10384Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:59:19 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for Mount Pinos sooty grouse documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10383:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10383Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:57:11 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for greater sage-grouse documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10382:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10382Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:55:20 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for harlequin duck documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10381:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10381Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:52:37 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for redhead documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10380:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10380Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:50:58 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for brant documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs.10379:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10379Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:48:57 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for fulvous whistling-duck documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations and monitoring needs.10376:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10376Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:46:57 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00SpeciesAccountStudies of Western Birds No. 1; Nongame Wildlife Program 2008-04 - Species account for tule greater white-fronted goose documenting special concern status, general range and abundance, seasonal status in California, historic and current range and abundance in California, ecological requirements, threats, management and research recommendations, and monitoring needs. 10377:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10377Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:45:37 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - The purpose of this volume is to provide information and approaches to solve issues related to bats and structures. The approaches presented here are intended as options that are flexible and evolving with increasing knowledge. The intended readership includes people and organizations that control or provide input on how the California Department of Transportation designs, builds, and maintains bridge structures. This information may also be of use to researchers and biologists striving to learn more about these remarkable animals and how to ensure their survival long into the future.10333:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10333Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:52:41 -08002003-01-01T00:00:00ReportGeneral Technical Report - The purpose of this project is to provide a critical review of mitigation options for bats in relation to Caltrans projects. This report has, therefore, been developed to provide Caltrans with the most effective possible mitigation strategies for the bats of California when maintenance of construction activities could potentially reduce, eliminate, or compromise bat populations and their habitats. Current laws protecting bats are discussed, and these laws form the foundation of mitigations. Because collective experience is far more valuable in developing guidelines for mitigation strategies, many persons were interviewed and many projects that included bat mitigations were reviewed. Data from twenty California bridges that recently mitigated for impacts to bats and bat habitat is incorporated into a table providing information about successful, and not so successful, mitigations. Thus, any conclusions about the effectiveness of mitigations would draw on the largest possible pool of knowledge. We also provide the details of nine case studies in the hope that these examples will help readers learn from the successes and failures of specific projects (Appendices A to I). The literature review also includes many other guidelines and examples that are searchable through EndNote, enabling the reader to search for specific species and situations. This document builds on, and should be considered a companion to, the Caltrans technical report, Bats and Bridges Technical Bulletin (Erickson 2003). 10334:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10334Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:51:59 -08002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportOffice of Spill Prevention and Response - In 2008, snowy plovers were found on twelve of the thirty-six beach segments in Los Angeles County. Most (98.5%) were observed on known plover roosting beaches: Zuma State Beach, Malibu Lagoon, Santa Monica State Beach, Dockweiler State Beach, and Hermosa Beach. Approximately 200 (winter 2007-2008) and 250 (winter 2008-2009) Snowy Plovers overwintered along the Los Angeles County coastline. Most snowy plovers used ten plover roosting areas, which account for approximately 3% of the Los Angeles (LA) County coastline and 10% of the available sandy beach in LA County. These were mostly the same roosting areas as documented in 2007. Biologists and volunteers detected multiple scrapes during numerous surveys at Zuma State Beach, Malibu Lagoon, Santa Monica State Beach, and Dockweiler State Beach (north of Tower 47 and north of the Volleyball Courts). Enclosures were placed around scrapes at Malibu Lagoon and Santa Monica State Beach. However, Malibu Lagoon was over-washed by waves and the Snowy Plovers did not continue to use the enclosure at Santa Monica after a smaller area around the scrapes was completely enclosed to protect it from dogs and pedestrian traffic. Potential nest scrapes were found at other sites, but no eggs were detected as scrapes were removed by beach grooming activities. Management and protection measures are discussed. 10284:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10284Fri, 30 Jan 2009 14:26:46 -08002009-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-04 - On February 13, 2004, the Department of Fish and Game (Department) received a petition to list the California tiger salamander(Amybstoma californiense) as an Endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act. The petition was submitted to the Fish and Game Commission by the Center for Biological Diversity, Environmental Defense Center, Defenders of Wildlife, Sierra Club Sonoma Group, Citizens for a Sustainable Cotati, VernalPools.org, Citizens’ Committee to Complete the Refuge, Butte Environmental Center, and Ohlone Audubon Society. The Department believes the petitioned action may be warranted due primarily to the following threats: 1) Continued loss and fragmentation of natural aquatic breeding and non-breeding terrestrial habitat due to urbanization; 2) Presence of pure and hybrid populations of non-native eastern tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum ssp.) which interbreed with native CTS; 3) Predation and competition from non-native predatory species in artificial breeding habitats; 4) Limited protection of populations via existing public lands, reserves or planning areas; 5) Ineffectiveness of existing regulatory mechanisms to adequately protect breeding and non-breeding habitats; and 6) Serious risk of becoming endangered throughout its entire range due to the combination of threats identified in 1-5, above.10282:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=10282Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:45:16 -08002004-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-06 - Part I of II. A petition requesting removal of the American peregrine falcon from the list of endangered species under the California Endangered Species Act was received by the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) on May 4, 2007. The Commission accepted the petition and directed the Department of Fish and Game to review of the petition and the best available scientific information on the status of the American peregrine falcon. The Department recommended that the Commission delist the American peregrine falcon as an endangered species and further, recommended management, conservation actions, and periodic monitoring be performed following delisting. Appendices provided in Part II.9911:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=9911Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:35:21 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-06 - Appendices - Part II of II. Appendices for the Status review of the American peregrine falcon in California.9912:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=9912Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:35:17 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 79-08 - Forty-one physical and silvicultural features were classified and evaluated for 95 bald eagle nest sites in 54 nesting territories in California. Field work was conducted between December 7, 1977 and March 10, 1978. Data were processed by a Univac 1108 computer using a program written specifically for this study. Frequency districutions, means, ranges, and standard deviations were derived for each variable. Ninety-one percent of the nest territories occurred in five counties in northern California. Forty-two percent of the territories contained alternate nests. Ponderosa and sugar pine were the predominate nest tree species. Nests were consistently found in trees of the highest canopy layer of the vertical forest structure, in live, dominant or co-dominant trees. Total canopy closure (percent cover) in the associated timber stand was usually below 40%. One-third of all nests surveyed were within 0.1 mile of a waterfront, and 87% were within one mile. Eighty-five percent had an unobstructed view to the associated water body. Seventy percent of the nests were associated with reservoirs.9859:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=9859Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:41:16 -08001979-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-26 - A literature search for data on the Mohave ground squireel was performed which yielded few published reports. Museum collections were searched and experts interviewed in order to ascertain the historic range of the species. Eight sites within the historic range were sampled yielding 33 observations (trap and/or observation) at 4 locations. 9858:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=9858Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:36:51 -08001972-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Program Report 93-09 - A petition was submitted to the Fish and Game Commission (FGC) by Kern County Department of Planning and Development Services requesting the Mohave ground squirrel (Spermophilus mohavensis) be delisted under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). On April 2, 1992, the FGC accepted the petition to delist the Mohave ground squirrel. The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) undertook a status evaluation of the species as per CESA and, based on the best scientific information available, concluded that the Mohave ground squirrel is likely to become endangered in the absense of special protections afforded under CESA due to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and degradation. The DFG recommended to the FGC that the petition to delist the Mohave ground squirrel be rejected.9850:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=9850Mon, 17 Nov 2008 15:53:29 -08001993-01-01T00:00:00ListingPetitionNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 90-16 - Research conducted by Department staff and others confirms that the willow flycatcher has declined precipitously and faces extirpation in California if current trends are not reversed. The petition details historic and current population status and range as well as current threats to the species and its habitat. Based on the information in the petition, the Department recommends that the Fish and Game Commission list the species as endangered.7170:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=7170Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:24:10 -07001990-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-05 - The objectives of this study were to 1) document Southwestern Willow Flycatcher abundance and distribution at a select number of sites in southern California that were believed to contain suitable habitat for nesting flycatchers, 2) document to the extent possible the breeding status of birds located on surveys, 3) describe the habitat at bird locations and throughout the survey sites, and 4) resight and band as many flycatchers as possible to enhance demographic data on dispersal and flycatcher movement. In southern California, Southwestern Willow Flycatcher abundance remains low. Our surveys located 21 breeding pairs; combining this with the results of all other surveys conducted in California in 2001 suggests that approximately 146 Southwestern Willow Flycatcher pairs currently breed in California. This represents an apparent doubling of the breeding population since the 1993 estimate of approximately 70 pairs. This increase has been extremely slow, indicating that recovery efforts, such as brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) removal, have not been as effective in mitigating stresses on flycatcher populations as they have for other species such as the least Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus).7098:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=7098Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:40:40 -07002004-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-06 - The Center for Biological Diversity requested that the Commission adopt emergency regulations to list the Tricolored Blackbird stating that it is in immediate need of protection [in 2004] from the severe nesting failures caused each year by agriculture harvesting plowing activities. The Department separately evaluated the request for emergency action and reported to the Commission that while evidence exists of threats to, and losses of, populations of the tricolored blackbird, the petition does not present evidence of an emergency posing a significant threat to the continued existence of the blackbird. The Department evaluated the petition, using the information in the petition and other available relevant information, and found that the scientific information presented in the petition is sufficient to indicate that the petitioned action may be warranted. The Department recommends that the Commission accept and consider the petition. 7097:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=7097Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:36:09 -07002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2002-04 - The Bank swallow population on the Sacramento River, despite increases through the 2001 breeding season, still meets the CESA definition of threatened. Endangered species status is not proposed at this time. Population monitoring should be continued annually to determine the trend over time. Besides the relatively low population level of Bank swallows, there are continuing losses of habitat at active and potential colony sites. Erosion control projects have been recorded with greater frequency during the past five years of annual monitoring surveys on the Sacramento River. If this trend of impacts continues, it may be necessary to reclassify the Bank swallow as an endangered species due to persistent destruction of habitat. Such habitat losses also could ultimately limit the size of the Bank swallow population and therefore its ability to be recovered. 7096:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=7096Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:19:26 -07002002-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-18 - Ground squirrel control activity in San Luis Obispo county was monitored in 1973 to determine the effects of aerial application of 1080 baits to the San Joaquin kit fox. Of 23 kit fox captured, tagged and released, 9 were within 0.5 miles of the bait treatment area. Kit fox density in the Carrizo Plain was estimated at 1.3 fox per square mile. No bait-related mortality was observed during the study. One road kill animal was located prior to the beginning of the treatment.4144:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4144Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:46:06 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-17 - Surveys were conducted for the San Joaquin kit fox; range maps were prepared showing observations, road kill sites, and den sites.4143:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4143Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:29:46 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-15 - Thirty-nine field transects were run on 20 sites in and around the Tahoe Basin in March 1973. Number of marten tracks per linear mile of transect was compared with trapping data collected in the same area in 1939-40, 1940-41 and 1941-42. Marten activity was highest in Kirkwood Meadows. Greatest correlation between number of tracks observed and historic trapping data was in Blackwood Canyon and Big Chief.4141:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4141Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:18:07 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00ArticleSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-12 - The eighth annual condor survey was conducted in October 1972. Twenty observation stations were staffed by 50 observers. A minimum of 36 condors were seen on October 11th; a minmum of 21 individuals on October 12th. Recruitment of young condors appeared to be low. Condors continued an established behavior pattern to congregate in the Ventura county/Kern county area during October.4139:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4139Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:56:11 -07001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 74-02 - California least terns were censused in July 1974. The breeding population estimate was 582 pairs. Breeding activity was documented at 20 sites with nesting confirmed at 16 sites.4124:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4124Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:26:13 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 74-03 - The Department of Food and Agriculture inititated a SCSLEM (sodium cyanide spring loaded ejection method)animal control program, in conjunction with other animal control methods, to reduce livestock damage in Tehama county. The Department of Fish and Game conducted a census to determine the impact of SCSLEM on coyotes and non-target animals. Scent post stations were established and sampled during the study period.4123:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4123Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:20:57 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 74-05 - Surveys to locate spotted owls were conducted throughout wooded, montane areas of California in 1973 and 1974. Owls were located using recorded and vocal calls, calling either continuously or at intervals along roads and trails through logged and unlogged areas. A minimum of 263 spotted owls, representing 192 pairs, were located. Five major concentrations were noted. The lowest relative abundance of spotted owls occurred in the northern part of the south coast area and the highest in the Douglas fir belt in the north coast area and in the mixed conifer belt of the souther Sierra Nevada. The spacing of adjoining territories and minimum territory size were estimated. A reduction of 27% in the number of occupied, historical sites may indicate a downward trend in the population size of spotted owls in California. 4047:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4047Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:24:19 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-07 - A study of green heron depredations at American River trout hatchery was conducted in 1974. Six nesting pairs frequented the ponds in April and May; the population increased in June when 22 green herons were counted. Nineteen birds were mist-netted and removed to remote locations in July however many new birds replaced them in August. Twenty-seven birds were banded, including 8 nestlings. Only one transported individual returned to the hatchery. Fish losses to green herons during the study period ranged from 2 lbs to 11 lbs. of fish per day.4036:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4036Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:36:13 -07001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-01 - The fifth consecutive annual breeding survey of the California least tern was conducted. A total of 775 pairs at 29 sites were documented. Breeding success was good but 9 sites experienced abandonment due to human disturbance, predation or flooding. Breeding population size was the largest ever recorded since the surveys began in California and attributable to increased survey effort. 4035:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4035Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:33:40 -07001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-04 - The study was conducted to determine the distribution of the red fox in California, with emphasis on the Central Valley population. The taxonomic identity of the valley population is unknown; it has increased in range to Trinity county to the north and San Joaquin county to the south. The Sierra Nevada red fox is rarely observed, possibly declining and concentrated in Lassen National Park.4033:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4033Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:08:31 -07001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-02 - The twenty-ninth annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted from 9 March to 5 June 2007. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Carpinteria Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on the Mexican border. A total of 443 pairs of Light-footed Clapper Rails exhibited breeding behavior in 19 marshes in 2007. This is the largest statewide breeding population detected since the counts began in 1980, representing an 8.3% increase over the former high count in 2006 and a 36% increase over the 24-year high reached in 1996. This is the fourth year in succession of recordbreaking high counts. Upper Newport Bay was once again the largest subpopulation in California and was back to its second highest total. Tijuana Marsh NWR was at an all-time high level of 142 pairs, a 39.2% increase over 2006. The Newport subpopulation comprised 37.3% of the state population in 2007 and the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR comprised 32.1%, together accounting for nearly 70% of the breeding population of this rail in California. The subpopulation on the San Dieguito River dropped 50% to 15 pairs but remains the largest ever recorded in a freshwater marsh. There were 15 pairs at Point Mugu, its third highest total and the Seal Beach tally was up slightly to 24 pairs. Batiquitos Lagoon held a record highof 22 pairs, as did Los Penasquitos Lagoon and creek with 12 pairs. Three other small subpopulations were at record or recent highs including Buena Vista Lagoon with 8 pairs, San Elijo Lagoon with 12 pairs, and San Diego River with 6 pairs. The San Diego River total included two pairs discovered at Kumeyaay Lake about 8 miles inland of Mission Bay. 3903:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3903Fri, 23 May 2008 15:23:58 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-03 - Amphibian population declines and extinctions are occurring even in the world’s least impacted areas. One of the best documented examples of a species decline in a protected area is that of the Mountain Yellow-legged Frog (Rana muscosa). This species occurs in mountain ranges in California and partially into Nevada and was once commonly seen in streams, lakes and ponds in montane habitats. Today, the species has declined dramatically despite the fact that it occurs almost entirely on protected public land. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the puzzling decline including introduced species, ultraviolet radiation, air pollution, climate change, and novel pathogens. This frog occurs in a biogeographically complex area and is an apparently ancient species comprising several genetically distant phylogeographic units, most of which are on the brink of extinction. Surprisingly, the two most deeply divergent forms can be found coming into close contact within the Sierran range. This study provides new detailed phylogeographic information and compares ecological data from populations within the Sierra Nevada. In particular, we present habitat associations for animals in the northern part of the Sierran range and compare them to those in the southern part of the range.3838:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3838Fri, 09 May 2008 15:55:34 -07002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-06 - The foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii) is a medium-sized (37-71 mm SUL) frog that occurs in rivers and streams of Oregon and California. It has been designated as a Species of Special Concern. It has been recognized that there is a lack of information regarding the ecology of the species. The purpose of this study was to add to our understanding of foothill yellow-legged frog oviposition habitat requirements, spatial ecology and movement behavior in relation to reproductive activities. We collected microhabitat data for oviposition and random sites to examine site selection. We used mark-recapture and radio-telemetry to study breeding site fidelity, spatial ecology, and post-breeding movement patterns. Our results indicate that stream flow and water depth influence oviposition site selection. We found that individual frogs have breeding site fidelity. Males used breeding habitats more and non-breeding habitats less than available during the breeding and non-breeding seasons and females used breeding habitats more than available only during the breeding season. Our radiotelemetry and mark-recapture results show that males move away from the immediate area used for reproduction but may remain within vicinity of the breeding area following the cessation of reproductive activity. Based on our results we recommend that streams should be managed properly in order to maintain areas that provide suitable conditions for oviposition and breeding activity and we suggest management of breeding and non-breeding habitats and protection of these habitats both during and outside of the breeding season.3837:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3837Fri, 09 May 2008 15:44:00 -07002006-01-01T00:00:00AnnualReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2005-02 - This population trend and status of the American peregrine falcon in California is summarized for the period of 2000-2004. 3826:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3826Fri, 09 May 2008 15:38:25 -07002005-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-03 - "Species of special concern" (SSC)is defined, procedures for designating SSCs are described, and other facts relating to this California Department of Fish and Game designation are presented in a question and answer format.3778:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3778Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:12:03 -07002008-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Program Report 2008-01 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2007, with observers at 35 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 6744-6989 California least tern breeding pairs established 7667 nests and produced 2293-2639 fledglings at 48 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.33-0.39. Statewide, 12,238 eggs were reported, with a Site Mean clutch size of 1.67 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.133) and the statewide clutch size of 1.62 eggs (St Dev =0.493) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Los Angeles Harbor, and Batiquitos Lagoon represented 55% of the breeding pairs while Venice Beach, Camp Pendleton, Huntington Beach and Naval Base Coronado produced 52% of the fledglings. Although the state experienced a lower chick mortality rate (9%) for the third consecutive year, four of the largest sites (Alameda Point, Venice Beach, Batiquitos Lagoon and Camp Pendleton) experienced levels of chick mortality greater than the state average. These four sites reported 42% of the total chicks, but 79% of the dead chicks. The main predators of least terns in 2007 were unknown species, black-crowned night-herons (Nycticorax nycticorax) and gull-billed terns (Gelochelidon nilotica). Coyote (Canis latrans)and American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) predation was lower compared to previous years, but predation due to protected species appears to be increasing. Gulls (Larus sp.) and peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) were reported from the most sites. The monitoring effort of 2007 is scheduled to continue in 2008. 3653:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3653Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:34:15 -08002008-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-05 - The Center for Biological Diversity, San Francisco, California (Petitioner), submitted a petition to the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) on August 21, 2007, to list the American pika (Ochotona princeps) (pika) as a Threatened species, pursuant to the California Endangered Species Act (CESA: Fish and Game Code (FGC) Sections (§)2050- 2115.5). As an alternative, the Petitioner asked that the Commission list each of the five subspecies of the pika occurring in California as, variously, either Endangered or Threatened species. The Commission received the petition on August 22, 2007. The Commission referred it for evaluation to the Department of Fish and Game (Department)on August 30, 2007. On September 12, 2007, the Department asked the Commission to grant the Department an additional 30 days, for a total 120 days, to evaluate the petition, pursuant to CESA (FGC § 2073.5(b)) (J. McCamman in litt. 2007). On October 19, 2007, the Commission granted this request (J. Carlson Jr. in litt. 2007). The Department evaluated the petition, using the information in that document and other available relevant information, and found that the scientific information presented in the petition is insufficient to indicate that either of the petitioned actions may be warranted. That is, the Department found that the petition did not provide sufficient scientific information to indicate that the following actions may be warranted: 1) State listing of the pika as a Threatened species, and 2) State listing of each of the five subspecies of the pika occurring in California as, variously, either Endangered or Threatened species. Departmental review of additional scientific information supports these findings. 3639:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3639Mon, 25 Feb 2008 15:31:04 -08002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-05 - An interagency team of biologists using tape recorded rail calls located twenty California black rails (Laterallus jamaicensis coturniculus) and one Yuma clapper rail (Rallus longirostris yumanensis) in marshes along Coachella Canal during the survey period May 12 to 16, 1975. Survey area included all marsh and riparian habitats between Coachella Canal and Highline Canal from All American Canal to Beal Road. All rails were found in the northwestern one-third of the study area from the vicinity of Titsworth Road to Flowing Well Road.3534:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3534Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:35:24 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 71-17 - California's nesting seabirds were surveyed from Oregon to the Mexican border. One hundred thirty-three thousand pairs of seabirds from 13 species were documented at 37 major nesting sites located on offshore rocks. Eighty-two other sites were considered minor nesting areas or roosting sites. Offshore islands and coastal headlands were not surveyed. Annual seabird surveys are recommended. 3542:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3542Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:28:07 -08001971-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 72-05 - Reports of depressed reproduction in cormorants in 1970 and 1971 prompted this study. Between April 15 to July 30, 1972, 63 pelagic cormorant nests were observed. Of these, 43 nests produced 106 egss, 44 hatched and 38 fledgled. On May 24, 1972, 100 Brandt's cormorant nests were observed on Lion's rock. Of these, 57 were empty and 43 had eggs or young. Nine nests had 15 young. Broken eggs and thin shells were in evidence. 3541:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3541Thu, 07 Feb 2008 09:20:30 -08001972-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 73-21 - An aerial survey of birds at Mono Lake was conducted on August 24, 1973 at about the peak of the fall migration season. Purposes of the flight were as follows: 1) to determine if aerial surveys are practicable in counting water birds, particularly eared grebes and phalaropes, on Mono Lake; 2) to compare aerial counts with sample ground counts; and 3) to determine distribution of each species in relation to habitat types and regions of the lake.3538:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3538Thu, 07 Feb 2008 08:51:37 -08001973-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-18 - Fresno kangaroo rats (Dipodomys nitratoides exilis) were live-trapped during February to May 1977 on 67.5 hectares of alkali sink habitat in western Fresno county. The study area had been sampled by D. R. Warner for his masters thesis, completed in 1976. An attempt was made to correlate grazing regime differences with population size. The population of Fresno kangaroo rats was determined to be lower in 1977 than 1976; lower population densities were attributed to grazing pressure and lack of precipitation. 3527:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3527Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:30:42 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-06 - The Fresno kangaroo rat (Dipodomys nitratoides exilis), first collected in 1891, was thought to have become extinct until rediscovered in 1934 near Kerman, California. A search was made in 1972-73 within a 15-mile radius of the type locality. Three populations were found near Raisin City and the continued existence of the Kerman population was confirmed. All populations were restricted to the alkali-sink plant community which is rapidly disappearing from western Fresno County. Much of Raisin City habitat was destroyed in April, 1974 through land levelling and conversion of native habitat to agricultural uses. Examination of 758 museum specimans and chromosome analysis confirmed three subspecies of the San Joaquin kangaroo rat; the Fresno subspecies is threatened with extinction while the Tipton subspecies of kangaroo rat is undetermined.3537:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3537Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:29:44 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 74-11 - Three races of song sparrow (Melospiza melodia) occur only in marshlands of the San Francisco Bay Region: Alameda (M. m. pusillula), Samuel's (M. m. samuelis) and Suisun (M. m. maxillaris) song sparrows. Economic development along shorelines of the San Francisco Bay area have destroyed or degraded salt marsh song sparrow habitat causing disappearance of the birds in parts of their former ranges. A survey of the status of these three races was conducted from February to October 1974 to determine current distribution and abundance of the birds and to identify factors detrimental to maintenance of their populations. A reconnaissance was made of known salt and brackish marshes, and sample areas were selected for population density determination. Compared with known ranges in 1900, current distributions of all three subspecies are reduced,especially in the middle portion of San Francisco Bay between San Pablo Bay and San Mateo Bridge. Breeding population densities in various habitat types were determined in selected portions of the ranges of these subspecies. In song sparrow habitat unaltered by land fills, diking or other land uses, densities recorded in 1974 are similar to densities recorded in previous studies. Brian Walton, who conducted the 1974 study, will continue research through September 1975 under contract with U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 3536:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3536Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:19:38 -08001974-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-13 - Biological information was gathered on the bobcat during 1977-78. This information was needed to satisfy the Endangered Species Scientific Authority (ESSA) that the present harvest of bobcat would not be detrimental to the species in California, to respond to the Department of Interior's request for information concerning the possibly endangered status of the bobcat, and to justify current Department regulations concerning the take of this species. Biological investigations showed that bobcats occur in 57 of California's 58 counties, in 12 of 13 major habitat types containing more than 2% of California's land, and in 8 of 16 minor habitat types. This area amounts to 92% of California's 100,000,000+ acres. A conservative estimate of the pre-breeding season adult bobcat density was derived from ongoing Department studies on population dynamics and from relative population indices obtained in Department studies and by commercial trappers. Using this method, a minimum bobcat population of 61,000 was estimated for California. Hunter take of bobcat was estimated to be 15,300 animals. A bobcat fur export tag system, with a quota of 6,000, was adopted by the California Fish and Game Commission. A total of 5,111 tags were sold during the 1977-78 season resulting in a total statewide harvest of about 20,000 bobcats. Distribution data were gathered from 7 national forests and a symposium on the bobcat was sponsored. 3363:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3363Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:14:07 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-16 - Natural history, distribution, taxonomy and harvest data are presented for the red fox in California. 3362:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3362Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:12:46 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportWildlife Management Branch Administrative Report 75-03 - Censuses of the Yuma clapper rail were conducted along the Colorado River and in the Imperial Valley by individuals of a multi-agency team. Nine hundred and five and 919 Yuma clapper rails were located during the May counts in 1973 and 1974 respectively. Twenty-four areas of importance to Yuma clapper rails were identified by checking census results and evaluation of available rail habitat. Approximately 80 percent of all clapper rails found were located in these areas. Five areas of utmost importance maintained 42 to 52 percent of all clapper rails found. One of these five areas is in Imperial Valley, and two of the four areas along the Colorado River are located in the Colorado River delta in Mexico. Of the two remaining areas, one is in a national wildlife refuge and the other, the single most important area, is controlled by the Bureau of Land Management. Thirty-three to 36 percent of all clapper rails were found on areas of importance in state or federal refuges. Recommendations were made for the continuation of yearly counts of the Yuma clapper rail and for protection of areas of important habitat. 3535:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3535Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:12:10 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 75-08 - In October, 1974, an aerial survey of vegetation of western Fresno County was completed. Areas with native vegetation were sampled (ground search, live-trapping) for the presence of Fresno kangaroo rats. Change in status from rare to endangered is recommended. 3533:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3533Wed, 06 Feb 2008 16:02:36 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecial Wildlife Investigations 75-14 - A survey of three endemic, non-migratory races of the song sparrow (Melospiza melodia) was conducted in the San Francisco Bay region during 1974. The purpose of the study was to determine range, status and breeding habitat densities of each race. The Alameda song sparrow (M. m. pusillula) of San Francisco Bay has shown the greatest decrease in range and density. The Samuel's song sparrow (M. m. samuelis) of San Pablo Bay has also shown a decrease in range and density. The Suisun song sparrow (M. m. maxillaris) of Suisun Bay has decreased in some areas but still occupies a large portion of its original range. Declines reported are due to loss of habitat due to urbanization. Density of nesting pairs was determined for several situations representative of the current habitat being utilized by each race. These densities ranged from 2.4 pairs per acre in an urbanized area to 16.6 pairs per acre in an undisturbed salt marsh. 3531:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3531Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:41:18 -08001975-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-04 - A study was conducted from late June through August, 1975, and from March through August, 1976, to determine the status of the salt marsh yellow-throat. Remaining areas of suitable breeding habitat were located. Density and distribution of breeding yellowthroat pairs within these areas were determined. Populations were found to be at critically low numbers in the South Bay and Peninsula areas, and greatly reduced from historic abundance throughout their breeding range. The effect of drought on yellowthroat breeding success was studied in 1976. Other factors affecting population ecology are discussed. 3528:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3528Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:23:32 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-28 - A multivariate analysis of measurements from 129 red fox skulls revealed that the Sacramento Valley red fox is most closely related to the red fox of the northern Great Plains, Vulpes vulpes regalis. It differes slightly from the native Sierra Nevada red fox (V. v. necator), but from a practical point of view it is very difficult to separate the two forms. Some distinguishing features to assist in identifying or distinguishing between the Sacramento Valley red fox and the Sierra Nevada red fox are presented.3526:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3526Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:02:38 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-10 - Bank swallow population survey data for the Sacramento River from the period of 1986-1997 are provided. 3525:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3525Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:28:37 -08001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-10 - The Department of Fish and Game presented the 1995 annual report on the status of the bank swallow to the Fish and Game Commission. 3037:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3037Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:03:57 -08001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-15 - In 1994, the bank swallow population survey of the Sacramento River was cooperatively conducted by Department of Fish and Game, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The survey was performed in early June and included 162 miles of the Sacramento River from Red Bluff to its confluence with the Feather River. The reach above Red Bluff from River Mile (RM) 243-292 was not surveyed but the small population likely present was estimated based on past survey results. Results from the 1994 survey indicated that the population was the second lowest to date. 3522:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3522Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:00:20 -08001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Program Report 94-09 - Baits, devices and a survey protocol to detect fishers and martens was developed with the objectives of monitoring populations on a landscape level and ability to detect occurrence of an animal at a particular site. 3520:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3520Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:41:38 -08001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-05 - An estimated 1,131 bobcats were taken during the 1995 hunting year and the 1995-96 trapping season. Trappers took 660 bobcats, and hunters took 410. The total take was a decrease of 39 percent from the 1994-95 year. The average pelt price increased from $24.72 last year to $33.66 this year (Table 5). The average take per successful trapper increased, but the number of bobcat trappers decreased from 102 to 62. 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 U.S. Department of Agriculture animal damage control records.3045:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3045Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:22:16 -08001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-02 - Three hundred thirty-eight trapping licenses were sold during the 1992-93 trapping season, a decrease of nine percent from the 371 licenses sold in the 1991-92 season. This was the ninth 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. Estimated revenue received by trappers from the sale of furs during the 1992-93 season, based on average prices paid by fur buyers, was $60,525. This is 30 percent below the revenue of $99,800 received in 1991-92, and is well below the high of $2,399,565 of 1978-79. The average income per successful trapper decreased from $497 in 1991-92 to $179 in 1992-93. Each year a portion of the fur harvest is reported as unsold. During the 1992-93 season, 36 percent was unsold, compared to 23 percent unsold during the 1991-92 season. Furs were reported taken in all counties except Alameda, Contra Costa, Del Norte, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz. Bobcats continued to be the most economically important animals, providing 52 percent the total value of California’s furs. Although 1,039 export tags were sold for bobcats taken during the 1992-93 season, in a program requiring tags for the sale or shipment of bobcat furs, holders of trapping licenses reported the take of 1,101. Last year 1,089 export tags were sold, but trappers only reported taking 1,080 bobcats. The average price paid per bobcat was $43.92, a 34 percent decrease from the average price of $70.42 paid during the 1991-92 season. Coyotes were second in value importance behind bobcats during the 1992-93 season. Gray fox ranked third in estimated fur value. Muskrat estimated fur value ranked fourth for 1992-93.3519:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3519Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:21:09 -08001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-02 - Three hundred trapping licenses were sold during the 1993-94 trapping season, a decrease of 11 percent from the 338 licenses sold in the 1992-93 season. This was the 10th successive year in which license sales were below 1,800 and the lowest number of licenses sold since the 1975-76 season. Estimated revenue received by trappers from the sale of furs during the 1993-94 season, based on average prices paid by fur buyers, was $77,669. This is 28 percent above the revenue of $60,525 received in 1992-93, but is well below the high of $2,399,565 of 1978-79. The average income per successful trapper increased from $327 in 1992-93 to $413 in 1993-94. Each year a portion of the fur harvest is reported as unsold. During the 1993-94 season, 29 percent was unsold, compared to 36 percent unsold during the 1992-93 season. Unsold pelts still have value, and for the purpose of this report are considered to have the same monetary value as marketed pelts. Therefore, the estimated value of the 1993-94 fur harvest was $107,302, an increase of 15 percent from the $92,968 of the 1992-93 season. Furs were reported taken in all counties except Contra Costa, Del Norte, Mariposa, San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Sierra, Yolo, and Yuba. Bobcats continued to be the most economically important animals, providing 42 percent of the total value of California’s furs. Although 1,153 export tags were sold for bobcats taken during the 1993-94 season, in a program requiring tags for the sale or shipment of bobcat furs, holders of trapping licenses only reported a take of 1,105. This difference between the two reporting systems continues to be a significant improvement over previous years. Part of this difference is because some bobcat hides are retained for personal use. The average price paid per bobcat was $40.44, an eight percent decrease from the average price of $43.92 paid during the 1992-93 season. Muskrats were second in value importance behind bobcats during the 1993-94 season. Coyote ranked third in estimated fur value. Gray fox estimated fur value ranked fourth for 1993-94.3050:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3050Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:17:53 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-05 - Three hundred thirteen trapping licenses were sold during the 1994-95 trapping season, an increase of 5 percent from the 300 licenses sold in the 1993-94 season. Current fur prices are not likely to cause license sales to increase substantially in the near future. Estimated revenue received by trappers from the sale of furs during the 1994-95 season, based on average prices paid by fur buyers, was $46,364. This is 41 percent below the revenue of $77,699 received in 1993-94, and is well below the high of $2,399,565 of 1978-79. The average income per successful trapper decreased from $413 in 1993-94 to $245 in 1994-95. Each year a portion of the fur harvest is reported as unsold. During the 1994-95 season, 12 percent was unsold, compared to 29 percent unsold during the 1993-94 season. Unsold pelts still have value, and for the purpose of this report are considered to have the same monetary value as marketed pelts. Therefore, the estimated value of the 1994-95 fur harvest was $59,949 a decrease of 45 percent from the $107,302 of the 1993-94 season. Furs were reported taken in all counties except Alpine, Amador, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Madera, Marin, Monterey, Orange, Placer, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Yolo, and Yuba. Bobcats continued to be the most economically important animals, providing 41 percent of the total value of California’s furs. Although 1,319 export tags were sold for bobcats taken during the 1994-95 season, in a program requiring tags for the sale or shipment of bobcat furs, holders of trapping licenses only reported a take of 1,018. Part of this difference is because some bobcat hides are retained for personal use. Therefore, no export tag purchase is required. Also, some trappers fail to send in their annual reports. The average price paid per bobcat was $24.72, a 39 percent decrease from the average price of $40.44 paid during the 1993-94 season. Muskrats were second in value importance behind bobcats during the 1994-95 season. Gray Fox ranked third in estimated fur value. Coyote estimated fur value ranked fourth for the year. 3048:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3048Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:16:24 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-06 - Two hundred fifty seven trapping licenses were sold during the 1995-96 trapping season, a decrease of 10 percent from the 313 licenses sold in the 1994-95 season. Estimated revenue received by trappers from the sale of furs during the 1995-96 season, based on average prices paid by fur buyers, was $36,507. This is 21 percent below the estimated revenue of $46,365 received in 1994-95, and is well below the high of $2,399,565 for 1978-79. The average income per successful trapper decreased from $245 in 1994-95 to $240 in 1995-96. Each year a portion of the fur harvest is reported as unsold. During the 1995-96 season, 42 percent was unsold, compared to 12 percent unsold during the 1994-95 season. Unsold pelts still have value, and for the purpose of this report are considered to have the same monetary value as marketed pelts. Therefore, the estimated value of the 1995-96 fur harvest was $64,111, an increase of 7 percent from the $59,951 of the 1994-95 season. Furs were reported taken in all counties except Alameda, Alpine, Del Norte, Kings, Nevada, San Benito, San Francisco, Solano, and Yuba. Bobcats continued to be the most economically important animals, providing 49 percent of the total value of California’s furs. Although 660 export tags were sold for bobcats taken during the 1995-96 season, in a program requiring tags for the sale or shipment of bobcat furs, holders of trapping licenses reported the sale of 548. Part of this difference is because some trappers fail to send in their annual reports. Muskrats were second in value importance behind bobcats during the 1995-96 season. Coyote ranked third in estimated fur value. Gray fox estimated fur value ranked fourth for the year. Once again, more muskrats were taken than any other species. The 8,690 muskrats taken during the 1995-96 season represented 58 percent of the total take. 3047:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3047Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:16:03 -08001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-04 - An estimated 1,649 bobcats were taken during the 1993 hunting year and the 1993-94 trapping season. According to export tag reports, trappers took 1,148 bobcats, and hunters took 451. The total take was an increase of 15 percent from the 1992-93 year. The average pelt price decreased from $43.92 last year to $40.44 this year (Table 5). The average take per successful trapper increased, but the number of bobcat trappers decreased from 97 to 84. 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 U.S. Department of Agriculture animal damage control records.2930:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2930Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:15:29 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Section Report 95-06 - An estimated 1,869 bobcats were taken during the 1994 hunting year and the 1994-95 trapping season. According to export tag reports, trappers took 1,319 bobcats, and hunters took 488. The total take was an increase of 13 percent from the 1993-94 year. The average pelt price decreased from $40.44 last year to $24.72 this year (Table 5). The average take per successful trapper increased, but the number of bobcat trappers increased from 84 to 102. 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 U.S. Department of Agriculture animal damage control records.2929:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2929Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:15:10 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-13 - The 1989-1994 distribution of the fisher in California is described based on the results of detection surveys that used either sooted track-plates or cameras. Fishers were detected in two regions of the state: the northwest and the southern Sierra Nevada. Despite considerable effort, neither fisher tracks nor photographs were collected in the area between Mt. Shasta and Yosemite National Park. This represents a significant breach in the distribution formerly interpreted as continuous. Detection survey results suggest that the population in the southern Sierra Nevada may be isolated from populations to the north. Additional survey effort focused on the southern Cascades and northern Sierra Nevada is recommended. Sierra Nevada forests should be managed to encourage movement of fishers between these areas. 3517:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3517Wed, 06 Feb 2008 08:59:40 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-12 - The current distribution of the American marten in California is described, based on field surveys conducted between 1989 and 1995 that used either sooted track-plates or cameras. The Sierra Nevada marten occupies much of its historic range from northwestern Shasta County to the southern Sierra Nevada. The Humboldt marten, in Humboldt and Del Norte counties, is extremely rare or extinct. 3516:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3516Wed, 06 Feb 2008 08:50:31 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 77-30 - Raptor management techniques including double-clutching, cross-fostering, and augmentation were further developed through this study by testing their application on a population of prairie falcons in central coast ranges of California. Manipulation of 19 prairie falcon and 1 peregrine falcon territories, observations at 43 other prairie falcon territories, laboratory incubation, hatching and brooding of prairie falcon eggs or young was conducted. 3509:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3509Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:17:21 -08001977-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-09 - On June 28 and 29, 1978, 20 creek mouths along the San Luis Obispo coast were briefly surveyed for wildlife habitat values. Seventeen sites were deemed to possess little or no value. Eight sites were determined to have well-developed marsh and areas of biological importance. Descriptions of the eight marshes are provided; type, size and location of all 20 marshes is included in a Table. 3508:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3508Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:06:22 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-07 - A survey to locate breeding populations of elf owls in California was conducted from April to July 1978. Ten pairs were found along the Colorado River near the California/Nevada border NNW of Needles; a single bird was found along the Colorado River south of the San Bernardino/Riverside County line. No other owls were located during the survey. Never abundant in California, the current population is estimated at no more than 20 pairs. Destruction of willow-cottonwood-mesquite riparian habitat is implicated. Endangered status under the California endangered species act is recommended.3505:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3505Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:52:50 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportHabitat Conservation Planning Branch Report 2000-05 - This constitutes the Department of Fish and Game’s annual report on the status of the bank swallow breeding population in the State. The field data that form the basis of the report were gathered by the Department during 1986 to 1999. After the species was listed in 1989, the Commission requested that the Department thereafter report annually on the trend of the population. Since the Sacramento River subpopulation is the largest and most important in the State from a management standpoint, it will be considered the “population” for purposes of this report.3456:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3456Thu, 31 Jan 2008 11:14:06 -08002000-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-20 - Thirty-one bobcats were trapped 63 times from December, 1976 through June, 1978 in the study area around El Capitan Reservoir, San Diego County, California. All bobcats captured were adults, 20 males and 11 females. Population densities were calculated to range from 1.27 to 1.53 bobcats per square kilometer. Female home range size varied from 0.6 to 4.4 km2, with seasonal home range less than 1.4 km2. Established resident females showed no home range overlap with other established resident females. Home range size for males varied from 0.88 to 6.4 km2, but most seasonal home ranges were less than 2.0 km2. Males showed considerable home range overlap with other males, up to 90% seasonally. A sex ratio of 1.8 males per female was noted in the relatively unexploited bobcat population in the study area. This compares to a ratio of 0.94 males per female noted in a sample of 60 bobcats harvested in San Diego County. The age structure of bobcats on the El Capitan reservoir study area was biased towards older individuals while 73% of the trapper harvested bobcats in the county were less than three years old. Only two of four females appeared to have given birth to kittens in 1977 and while three of three females appeared to have kittens during 1978, no young bobcats were trapped. The deaths of 13 study animals were documented. Eight of these deaths were naturally caused, three were human caused, and two were study related. Seasonal weight fluctuations of up to 21% of an individual bobcat's body weight occurred during the course of the study. 3361:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3361Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:11:06 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 78-12 - A study was conducted from April to July 1978 to determine the distribution and reproductive success of least Bell's vireos, and to assess the impact of brown-headed cowbirds on vireos. Eighty-nine territorial males or pairs and one unmated male were found at 30 of 84 sites surveyed along 21 streams and rivers in seven southern California counties. Observed nesting, hatching, fledging and breeding success were 33%, 32%, 58% and 58% respectively. Less than one offspring was fledged per pair. Nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds is greatly reducing reproductive success, and more than 50% of pairs, whose nesting history was known, were parasitized. The future of this subspecies appears doubtful if parasitism continues at its present rate. Endangered species status is recommended. 3364:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3364Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:09:40 -08001978-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-02 - The influence of human disturbance on the nesting success of birds is well documented. Human disturbance can influence, either directly or indirectly, species richness as well as nesting success. Among birds, ground-nesting seabirds including alcids appear to be especially sensitive to human disturbance, particularly during the incubation period. Marbled Murrelets (Brachyramphus marmoratus), in contrast to other alcids, typically nest on large branches in old-growth coniferous forests. Nest branches are usually high above ground, often averaging 40+ m above ground. Nesting at such heights may be sufficient to minimize or isolate the nest from the potential impact of ground disturbances. Therefore, literature on the sources and effects of human-caused disturbance on ground nesting seabirds and other colonial waterbirds are of limited relevance to Marbled Murrelets. Over the last 30-50 years, Marbled Murrelet populations have declined as a result of habitat loss resulting from the harvest of old growth coniferous forests as well as other anthropogenic disturbances. Consequently, the Marbled Murrelet was listed as endangered in California in 1992 and later received federal status as a threatened species.3370:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3370Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:08:19 -08002006-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Wildlife Program Report 2007-03 - The Department of Fish and Game reviewed the petition to delist the American peregrine falcon as an endangered species pursuant to §2067 of the Fish and Game Code. As required in §§2072.3 and 2073.5, the Department has evaluated the sufficiency of information presented in the petition and supporting data and believes the petition does include sufficient scientific information to indicate that the petitioned action or at least downlisting to “threatened” status may be warranted. In making this determination from the petition and supporting information, the Department relied upon the following key findings: 1) Peregrine falcon breeding range in California has recovered to include most of the historic breeding range; 2) Peregrine falcon breeding population size has increased dramatically and may have reached historic levels within California, as best as can be determined given the uncertainty of the historic population data; 3) The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service)delisted the peregrine falcon in 1999 and has an ongoing monitoring program, contingent on funding, to document breeding status of this species through the year 2015. A sub-set of nest sites will be monitored in California every three years, providing current occupancy and productivity data for the State’s peregrine population; 4) The captive breeding and reintroduction program established in the 1970s was highly successful in aiding the recovery of the peregrine in California; 5) The threat posed to peregrine falcon nesting populations in California by organochlorine pesticide contamination appears to be lessened by the restrictions imposed on the use of these substances in the U.S. and Canada since the 1970s. However, “hot spots” remain in the State and need further evaluation as to their impact on peregrine recovery.3369:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3369Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:07:36 -08002007-01-01T00:00:00PetitionEvaluationNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 91-04 - This report was prepared in response to a petition received by the Fish and Game Commission from Mr. Peter W. D. Paton of the Redwood Region Audubon Society to list the Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) as a threatened species. On June 29, 1990, the Commission determined that the petition contained sufficient information to indicate that the petitioned action may be warranted. The Department undertook a review of this petition and recommended the murrelet be listed not as threatened but as endangered based on several serious threat factors: small population size, highly fragmented populations, extensive habitat modification and destruction, commercial timber harvest and recreation impacts, high levels of predation by corvids, potential of oil spill impacts to the population in the marine environment should be taken. 2955:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2955Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:05:04 -08001991-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-29 - Ten adult (5 male, 5 female) and five juvenile (4 male, 1 female) bobcats were captured and radio-collared between September 1976 and October 1978. Density of adult bobcats was 0.05 bobcats per km2 (0.13 per mi2). Home range sizes of adult bobcats ranged from 29.5-94.5 km2 (11.5-36.5 mi2) with little home range overlap between males but up to 30% overlap between females. Male-female bobcat home range overlap was as high as 100%. Six female bobcats produced an average of 2.7 kittens per female in 1977 and four female bobcats produced an average of 3.0 kittens per female in 1978. Female bobcats reduced their home range size 70-95% at parturition and attained their original home range dimensions by the October-November period of kitten dispersal. A bimodal activity pattern with peaks at dawn and dusk was associated with hunting behavior and major movements within each bobcat home range. Longer distances were moved during the evening hours and the average distance moved varied among individuals (2.2-4.2 km or 1.4-2.6 mi). During 1976 through 1979, 162 bobcats caught by trappers on adjacent national forest land revealed a sex ratio of 0.96 males per female and that 75% of these bobcats were less than two years old. These aspects of population dynamics are probably indicative of an expanding population or a population responding to moderately heavy man-induced mortality. 3359:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3359Fri, 28 Dec 2007 16:09:03 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-19 - In 1979, the yellow-billed cuckoo population in the Sacramento Valley near Hamilton, Glenn County, was studied. Cuckoos forage in both orchards and riparian habitat with 88% of food items taken from the riparian. Grasshoppers and caterpillars were the most important food items. Foraging areas ranged in size from 10.8 ha to 28.3 ha, including 8.8 to 10.8 ha of trees (including orchards and riparian). Four nests were found, three in walnut orchard and one in a willow slough. Four additional nesting pairs were likely in the area. Nesting success was 100% and fledging success was 57%. A live nestling was removed from one nest by the parent in apparent response to food shortage. Cuckoos were exposed to organophosphate pesticides; three unhatched eggs measured 0.08 to 0.11 ppm DDE, indicating low levels. Availability of riparian habitat is primary limiting factor. Food availability also is an important limiting factor. Nest site availability and pesticide exposure appear to be secondary limiters.3358:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3358Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:50:30 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-24 - Information on current distribution of ringtails was collected from observational records, museum specimens, and recent literature; efforts yielded 446 occurrence reports, representing 595 ringtails. Present distribution was documented in 49 counties extending throughout most of California with the exception of the Modoc Plateau, Antelope Valley and portions of the San Joaquin Valley. Expansion of the ringtail's range (Grinnell et al. 1937) was documented in the Mojave and Colorado Desert, Sacramento Valley, portions of the San Joaquin Valley, northern Mono County, high Sierra Nevada south of Lake Tahoe, and in the northeastern portion of the state. Occurrence reports indicate greatest ringtail abundance along riparian areas in northern California and Sierra Nevada foothills; ringtail occurrences were scarce in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, the east slope of the Sierra Nevada, the San Joaquin Valley, and northeastern California.3357:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3357Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:49:50 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-10 - A survey conducted in the spring and summer of 1978 found no more than 20 pairs of elf owls in California. These birds were located at just two sites along the lower Colorado River. No additional birds were discovered during field work conducted in 1979 when the total elf owl population was estimated to be no more than 10 pairs in 1979. Impacts of agricultural development on mesquite woodland is descibed as a significant threat to the species. 3355:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3355Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:30:24 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-03 - Natural history of the ringtail in California is outlined. Historical harvest by fur-trappers is tabulated through 1967, the year in which ringtail was granted fully protected status. 3354:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3354Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:18:10 -08001980-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-04 - This study points to the Central Valley as being of primary importance to breeding populations of the red bat, Lasiurus blossevillii in California. Red bats appear to be strongly associated with riparian habitats, particularly mature stands of cottonwood/sycamore, in belts greater than 50 m wide. Direct observations of roosting behavior in L. blossevillii in California are limited primarily to collections or sightings that have occurred in fruit and nut orchards. Given the extensive loss of riparian forest in the Central Valley, it is highly likely that the orchards serve as alternative habitat, and to some extent compensate for the loss of gallery riparian forest. The effect of pesticide spraying on bats roosting in orchards is not known. The separation of the eastern and western red bat into two species has important conservation implications for the western taxon. When viewed separately it is evident that both the habitat associations and the distributional patterns for L. blossevillii are very different from those for the more common L. borealis. When viewed in a regional context, the Central Valley of California, particularly the Sacramento and San Joaquin drainages and the lower reaches of the large rivers that drain the Sierra Nevada, take on disproportional importance for the future viability of this species. It seems evident that this species would benefit greatly from riparian restoration, particularly recruitment of cottonwood/sycamore and reinstatement of natural flood regimes. The western red bat warrants inclusion on the Mammal Species of Special Concern list. 2957:6https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2957Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:42:09 -08002006-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-01 - Potential habitat for the giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens)was inspected in western Fresno and eastern San Benito counties between June and August 1992. Occupied sites were revisited and additional sites inspected in June 1993. Seventy-nine giant kangaroo rat colonies were found. One colony became extinct between 1992 and 1993. Two of the six colonies previously (1980-89) located and monitored in the Panoche Hills were extirpated. Three other previously located colonies, two in the Tumey Hills and one between Arroyo Hondo and Cantua Creek, also had disappeared. Two colonies were discovered in Indian Valley in the Panoche Hills, an area formerly inaccessible. The largest colonies were found on Panoche and Mugata fine sandy-loam soils, though a few small colonies were found on a variety of soil textures. All colonies were located in annual grassland-dominated communities. The extant colonies occupied a total estimated area of 1,882.8 ha which is almost 6.6 times greater than the 287 ha calculated from studies in the 1980’s. The estimated population size for the study area in 1992-93 was 37,125, a substantial increase compared to a prior estimate of approximately 2,000 in 1980-1985. The increase resulted from a population irruption starting in the summer of 1991, coincinding with the end of a 5-year drought. This irruption was widespread in central California and involved many species of animals.2931:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2931Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:49:41 -08001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-01 - From July 1987 through December 1991, interactions between cattle, the plant community, giant kangaroo rats (Dipodomys ingens), and blunt-nosed leopard lizards (Gumbelia sila) were studied in the Carrizo Plain Natural Area, with lesser efforts on short-nosed kangaroo rats (D. nitratoides brevinasus) and San Joaquin antelope squirrels (Ammospermophilus nelsoni). Drought prevailed during the precipitation years 1986-87, 1988-89, 1989-90, and into late March 1991, while 1987-88 had > average rainfall. Drought limited livestock grazing to a period from November 1987 to June 1989. Impacts of cattle grazing on populations of kangaroo rats and blunt-nosed leopard lizards were not apparent statistically, but grazing only occurred during a 20-month period. Numbers of short-nosed kangaroo rats declined throughout the study, reaching a lowpoint in spring 1991 when none were captured An increase in density of giant kangaroo rats in 1988 and 1989 may have contributed to the decline of short-nosed kangaroo rats. No recruitment of young was seen between summers 1988 and 1991. Numbers of giant kangaroo rats increased in 1988, remained high in 1989 despite drought, probably because of large seed stores made in 1988, declined to a lowpoint in spring 1991, then began to increase in summer 1991. Studies of blunt-nosed leopard lizards began in 1988. Numbers of lizards were about two times greater on the nongrazed plot compared to the grazed plot throughout the study, reflecting a site difference unrelated to grazing treatment. During June censuses, numbers were greatest in 1989 following a year of high plant productivity, fell to their lowpoint in 1990 during drought, then increased over twofold in 1991.2946:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2946Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:47:24 -08001993-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-03 - Surveys of inland-breeding seabirds in northeastern California in 1997, following two wet winters, estimated 1940 pairs of black terns were breeding at 60 sites, 3039 pairs of American white pelicans at 2 sites, 1415 pairs of double-crested cormorants at 7 sites, 12,660 pairs of ring-billed gulls and 5741 pairs of California gulls at 7 sites, 521 to 531 pairs of caspian terns at 5 sites, and 1794 pairs of Forster’s terns at 19 sites. The Klamath Basin NWR complex was the foremost site for inland-breeding seabirds, holding major nesting populations of all species except the black tern. Other sites that held especially large concentrations of breeding gulls and terns were Butte Valley WA, Goose Lake, Big Sage Reservoir, and Honey Lake WA. Boles Meadow and Eagle Lake each had large concentrations of both Forster’s and black terns. 2914:5https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2914Fri, 02 Nov 2007 11:24:29 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Unit Report 2007-02 - A total of 408 pairs of light-footed clapper rails exhibited breeding behavior in 18 marshes in 2006. This is the largest statewide breeding population detected since the counts began in 1980, representing a 13.3% increase over the former high count in 2005. This is the third year in succession with record breaking high counts. Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve was once again the largest subpopulation in California but was 9% smaller than in 2005. Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge was at an all-time high level of 102 pairs, a 17% increase over 2005. The Newport subpopulation comprised 38.7% of the state population in 2006 and together with the subpopulation in the Tijuana Marsh NWR totaled 260 pairs, or 63.7% of the breeding population of this rail in California. The subpopulation on the San Dieguito River became the third largest in the state with 31 pairs, the largest ever recorded in a freshwater marsh. Point Mugu was back up to 17 pairs, its second highest total. The captive breeding program continued in 2006; 8 adult rails were released to the wild. All released rails were fitted with tail-mounted transmitters. All survived to drop their transmitters 13-45 days after release. 3064:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3064Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:57:44 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-04 - The 1995 annual census of the endangered light-footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) was conducted throughout the species range in California. There were 262 pairs of clapper rails exhibiting breeding behavior in 14 marshes, a 9% decline from the 1994 population estimate. One hundred and seventeen pairs, or 45% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. The subpopulations in the Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Seal Beach NWR, and Upper Newport Bay totalled 229 pairs, or 87% of the California population. The other 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. 2924:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2924Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:56:19 -07001996-01-01T00:00:00Bird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-08 - The 1996 annual census of the endangered light-footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) was conducted throughout the species' range in California and yielded 325 pairs of rails exhibiting breeding behavior in 15 marshes. This represents a 24% increase from the 1995 population estimate and the highest count since annual surveys began. One hundred and fifty-eight pairs, or 49% of the State total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. The subpopulations in the Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Seal Beach NWR, and Upper Newport Bay totalled 287 pairs, or 88% of the California population. The other subpopulations are small and in serious jeopardy, which could be counteracted with increased management and the provision of additional habitat. 2919:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2919Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:55:59 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 86-16 - Results of five consecutive California least tern breeding seasons were reported. Number of nesting pairs rose from 850 in 1979 to 1196 in 1983. Minimum number of fledglings produced grew over this time period with 650 in 1979 to 887 in 1983. Exceptionally, in 1982 only 469 fledglings were produced, attributed to poor food supply. The number of nesting colonies remained stable at 32. Predation was a problem at all large and moderate-sized colonies in the state; American kestrels, burrowing owls, loggerhead shrikes, red fox and domestic cat were major predators during this time period. 3059:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3059Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:22:38 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Unit Report 2007-01 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sternula antillarum browni) continued in 2006, with observers at 31 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 7006-7293 California least tern breeding pairs established 8173 nests and produced 2571-3644 fledglings at 45 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.35-0.52. Statewide, 12,698 eggs were reported, with a site average of 1.57 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.257)and an average clutch size of 1.62 eggs (St Dev = 0.494) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Naval Base Coronado, Los Angeles Harbor and Batiquitos Lagoon represented 58% of the breeding pairs while Camp Pendleton, Los Angeles Harbor, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Venice Beach produced 68% of the fledglings. Only two sites, Camp Pendleton and Los Angeles Harbor, produced 40% of the statewide fledgling total. Four large sites (Alameda Point, Camp Pendleton, Los Angeles Harbor and Batiquitos Lagoon) experienced levels of chick mortality greater than the state average. Weather and food shortage are suggested causes of the 22-55% chick death rate. The main predators of least tern chicks were American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), coyotes (Canis latrans) and gulls (Larus sp.) accounting for up to 334, 222 and 157 deaths, respectively. American crows and common ravens were reported from the most sites. 3058:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3058Thu, 01 Nov 2007 15:02:56 -07002007-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-01 - Monitoring to document breeding success of California least terns (Sterna antillarum browni) continued in 2005, with observers at 28 nesting sites providing data. An estimated 6865-7341 California least tern breeding pairs established 8120 nests and produced 1721-2471 fledglings at 42 documented locations. The fledgling to breeding pair ratio was 0.23-0.36. Statewide, 13,752 eggs were reported, with a site average of 1.74 eggs per nest (St Dev = 0.111) and an average clutch size of 1.67 eggs (St Dev = 0.659) for Type 1 sites. Numbers of nesting least terns were not uniformly distributed across all sites. Camp Pendleton, Los Angeles Harbor, Naval Base Coronado, Batiquitos Lagoon and Pt. Mugu represented 68% of the breeding pairs while Los Angeles Harbor, Camp Pendleton, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Alameda Point, Naval Base Coronado and Batiquitos Lagoon Ecological Reserve produced 76% of the fledglings. Only two sites, Los Angeles Harbor and Camp Pendleton, produced 44% of the statewide fledgling total. Four large sites (Alameda Point, Los Angeles Harbor, Camp Pendleton and Batiquitos Lagoon) experienced high levels of chick mortality. Starvation is a suggested cause of the 33-49% chick death rate. The main predators of least tern chicks were American kestrels (Falco sparverius), American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and coyotes (Canis latrans), accounting for up to 297, 287 and 170 deaths, respectively. Coyotes were reported from the most sites. 3057:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3057Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:58:47 -07002006-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 95-03 - In 1994, a minimum of approximately 2,792 pairs of the endangered California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni) nested at 36 sites along the coast of California. This 20% increase over 1993 breeding population size continues the trend since 1987 of continued growth of the population, and is directly attributable to the efforts of people working on behalf of recovery of the species. The statewide total of 2,792 pairs is the highest number recorded since systematic monitoring began in 1973, and represents a four-and-a-half-fold increase over the estimated 600 pairs of that year. Unfortunately, in 1994, heavy predation pressure at many sites and an apparent food shortage at two large sites, combined with a variety of human-related constraints on tern reproductive success, resulted in poor fledgling production statewide. A minimum of approximately 1755-1871 fledglings were produced, 11% fewer than in 1993, resulting in a statewide fledgling per pair ratio of 0.62-0.67. Documented and suspected predator species across the State ran the usual gamut; however,kestrels, crows, ravens, rats, and a peregrine falcon were responsible for the loss of the majority of terns and tern eggs lost to predation in 1994. As usual, successful and unsuccessful sites were distributed throughout the state. Terns themselves were more unevenly distributed: 48% of the statewide population bred at only four sites (Venice Beach, Huntington Beach, Santa Margarita River/North Beach, Mission Bay/FAA Island); inclusion of an additional five sites (NAS Alameda, Seal Beach, Bolsa Chica, Delta Beach/North, Tijuana River/South) accounted for 76% of all breeding pairs. And, again as usual, the bulk of fledglings produced statewide came from only a few sites; those produced at NAS Alameda, Venice Beach, Seal Beach, Santa Margarita River/North Beach, Mission Bay/FAA Island, and Delta Beach North comprised approximately 70% of the State total. 3049:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3049Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:39:28 -07001995-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-01 - The annual census of the light-footed clapper rail(Rallus lonsirostris levipes) population was conducted in California, spring 1997. Three hundred and seven rails exhibiting breeding behavior were found in 16 marshes, a 5.5% decrease from the 1996 population. However, this was the second highest count since annual surveys began in 1980. One hundred and forty-nine pairs, or 48.5% of the State total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. The subpopulations in the Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Seal Beach NWR, and Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve totalled 263 pairs, or 85.7% of the California population. The other subpopulations are small and in serious jeopardy that could be counteracted with increased management and the provision of additional habitat.2916:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2916Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:04:25 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-02 - In 1996, 3330-3392 pairs of the endangered California least tern nested at 35 sites along the coast of California. This 29% increase in breeding population size over 1995 resumes the predominant pattern since 1987 of exponential growth of the statewide population. Fledgling-to-pair ratios at most sites increased relative to those in 1995, and terns nesting at several sites in 1996 were very successful. However, heavy predation at many San Diego County sites (including a majority of those with high pair numbers) and a local food shortage at Venice Beach compromised statewide fledgling production somewhat. Approximately 1981-2120 young terns fledged across the State, a record high.2915:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2915Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:04:08 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 98-12 - Approximately 4,017 pairs of California least terns (Sterna antillarum browni) nested at 38 sites along the coast of California in 1997. This represents a 19% increase from 1996 pair estimates, and a 55% increase from 1995 pair estimates, more than compensating for the 7% decrease between 1994 and 1995. Recruitment cannot entirely account for this increase in least tern pairs, as reported fledgling production for both 1994 and 1995 was low. Reproductive success and adult survival in 1997 was affected by predation. However, fledgling estimates (3,140 to 3,322) for 1997 were 55% to 64% higher than 1996 and 200% higher than 1995 estimates. The statewide fledglings-per-pair value (0.78 to 0.83) was also higher than for the previous three years.2911:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2911Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:03:56 -07001998-01-01T00:00:00ReportHabitat Conservation Planning Branch Report 2000-01 - An estimated 4,141 to 4,182 pairs of California least terns nested at 39 nesting sites in 1998 and produced an estimated 2,686 to 2,810 fledglings. Statewide pair estimates increased 3.9%, but fledgling estimates decreased by 14.6% from 1997 estimates, likely due to high chick mortality at many sites. Seven sites supported a combined total of 65% of statewide pairs and produced 66% of the state’s fledglings in 1998. Fledglings per pair were 0.64 to 0.68, lower than 1997 (0.80). After a 54% increase in pairs and a 200% increase in fledglings between 1995 and 1997, pair numbers increased only 3.8% and fledgling numbers decreased by 14% from 1997. This is likely related to limitations in prey availability during 1998, as evidenced by high chick mortality, poor nest attendance, abnormal chick feeding and kleptoparasitism.2910:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2910Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:03:38 -07002000-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2002-01 - Thirty-two coastal salt marshes were surveyed for state-endangered Belding’s Savannah sparrows in spring, 2001. A minimum total of 2,902 pairs was detected in 30 wetlands from Santa Barbara County on the north to Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge on the Mexican border. This is the highest state total reported since periodic counts began in 1973 and is 23.5% higher than the next highest count, reported in 1996. Point Mugu alone accounted numerically for this difference, wherein twice as many Belding’s were recorded in 2001 than previously.2908:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2908Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:03:23 -07002002-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2002-03 - Monitoring of California least tern nesting sites in 2000 resulted in an estimate of 4521 to 4790 breeding pairs establishing 5301 nests at 37 locations. This represents a 31 percent increase in the minimum estimated number of breeding pairs from 1999. An estimated 3710 to 4013 fledglings were produced, or 0.77 to 0.89 fledglings per pair. This represents a 453 percent increase over productivity of the 1999 season, and 38 percent over that of 1998. Depredation was the primary limiting factor to reproductive success. Other reported causes of mortality included a heat wave in the San Francisco Bay area, nest abandonment, and human activity, including loss of chicks to vehicles.2905:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2905Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:02:27 -07002002-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2006-3 - Results of the statewide survey of Belding's Savannah sparrow conducted in spring 2006 are presented. A minimum total of 3,135 breeding territories was detected at 29 coastal wetlands from Santa Barbara County to the Mexican border. This is the highest state total reported since periodic counts began in 1973. The major need of this endangered species remains habitat restoration, security, and management.2898:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2898Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:02:15 -07002006-01-01T00:00:00ReportSpecies Conservation and Recovery Program Report 2004-01 - The annual census of the Light-footed Clapper Rail in California was conducted from spring 2003. Thirty coastal wetlands were surveyed by assessing call counts from Goleta Marsh in Santa Barbara County, south to Tijuana Marsh on the Mexican border. A total of 284 pairs of clapper rails exhibited breeding behavior in 16 marshes. The combined number of rails in the three largest subpopulations in the state, including Newport,Seal Beach NWR, and Tijuana Marsh NWR, equaled 231 pairs, or 81.3% of the total breeding population. Four captive pairs of clapper rails produced 1 – 3 clutches each resulting in the release to the wild of 32 rails. 2901:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2901Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:01:20 -07002004-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-03 - Western snowy plovers (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus)were monitored during the breeding and wintering seasons of 1995. Surveys were conducted on lands managed or owned by the State of California, in Orange and San Diego Counties. Of the ten sites monitored for breeding activity, three supported nesting snowy plovers in 1995. Bolsa Chica Lagoon was the only breeding site in Orange County, whereas Silver Strand State Beach and Tijuana Estuary were two of eight known breeding sites in San Diego County. Many of the state lands did not support nesting plovers due to insufficient habitat and heavy recreational use. Both of the San Diego County sites have potential for supporting more snowy plovers given appropriate management actions. In contrast, nine sites on or adjacent to State-managed lands were used by plovers during the wintering months. Wintering plovers may not be affected by recreational beach use, but habitat needs to be protected from future development or habitat alteration. 2925:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2925Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:01:04 -07001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 97-07 - The tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor) is a highly colonial species, largely endemic to California. Most numerous in the Central Valley and vicinity, the species also occurs in the foothills surrounding that valley, coastal California, Oregon, and northwestern Baja California. Historical and recent surveys indicate that the tricolored blackbird’s overall distribution and choice of nesting locations varies from year to year. The current and future status of tricolors is of concern because the colonial behavior of this species may make them vulnerable to large-scale nesting failures and their geographical range is limited. Life history summary, population size, distribution and trend, threats, conservation, management, research and monitoring recommendations are provided.2920:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2920Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:59:39 -07001997-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-07 - In 1993, a minimum of 2,400 pairs of the endangered California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni) nested at 35 sites along the coast of California, and produced approximately 1848-2009 fledglings. This 14% increase over 1992 breeding population size continues the trend since 1987 of continued growth of the population. The statewide total of 2,400 pairs is the highest number recorded since systematic monitoring began in 1973, and represents a four-fold increase over the estimated 600 pairs of that year. Predation on tern eggs, chicks, fledglings, and adults, and abandonment of eggs and chicks as a function of predation pressure, were the major causes of breeding failure in 1993.2933:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2933Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:58:59 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 94-06 - The annual census of the endangered light-footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes) was conducted throughout the species' range in California during spring 1993. There were 300 pairs of clapper rails exhibiting breeding behavior in 13 marshes, a 9% increase over 1992. One hundred and forty-two pairs, or 47.3% of the state total, were detected at Upper Newport Bay. The subpopulations in the Tijuana Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, Seal Beach NWR, and Upper Newport Bay totalled 270 pairs, or 90% of the California population. 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.2934:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2934Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:58:44 -07001994-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-10 - In a telephone survey of wildlife professionals in California , introduced red fox were reported from 36 of 58 (62%)counties in California. The introduced red fox ranged along the Pacific coast from southern San Diego County to Marin County. They were reported in western Riverside County northward through the Sacramento valley and western Sierra foothills to central Shasta County. Populations were contiguous in urban areas and may be contiguous in rural areas as well. The diet of the introduced red fox in the urban environment was diverse and consisted of birds, mammals, insects, seeds, fruit and human foods. Among radio-collared foxes (n=23) in urban Orange County, California, females had the greatest survival rate for both juveniles and adults. Overall, dispersing juveniles had the greatest mortality rate. Sources of mortality for urban foxes included collisions with autos, disease, an attack by a dog, and accidents other than vehicle collisions. Juvenile males were the most likely to disperse. Average dispersal distance for all successful dispersers was 9.8 ± 1.85 km (6.1 ± 1.15 mi.). Three of the radio-collared foxes were known to have bred their first year. Average litter size was 4 pups per litter (n=7 litters) in 1991 and 3 pups per litter (n=5 litters) in 1992. Urban foxes were found to use all aspects of the urban environment, from open fields and beaches to residential developments. Corridors for travel for both resident and dispersing foxes included flood channels, beach strands, railroad tracks, and powerline corriders. Red fox densities varied between sites.2939:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2939Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:58:24 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-14 - In 1992, 39 California Spotted Owl territories were surveyed on the 355 km2 Eldorado study area located in the central Sierra Nevada, California. Sixty-three spotted owls occupying 32 territories were found. Abundance and density of spotted owls have steadily increased from 1986-1992, primarily due to increased sampling. Fecundity for 1992 was 0.88. Reproductive activity was variable with a mean fecundity estimate of 0.57 over all seven years of the study. Turnover rates for males and females in 1992 were 0.26 and 0.32 respectively. Mean annual survival estimates pooled for 1986 through 1992 were 0.86 for males and 0.76 for females. 2942:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2942Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:57:24 -07001993-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 92-23 - A total of 57 camera bait stations were established in the winter of 1991-92 to aid in the detection of wolverines in California; none were detected in this, the second field season of this study. At least twenty species were detected at the stations, including marten (Martes americana), fisher (M. pennanti), mountain lion (Felis concolor), bobcat (Felis rufus), and black bear (Ursus americana). 2947:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2947Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:56:48 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 92-04 - Non-native varieties of red foxes, Vulpes vulpes, that were imported into California have populated lowland areas in much of the State. They are common in many natural environments and are thriving in several urban areas. The range of this now widespread and abundant predator has been expanding because of natural propagation and dispersal and because of illegal relocation by people. In recent decades, the non-native red fox has become a significant threat to many endangered species and other vulnerable native animals. To protect endangered wildlife, agencies have had to implement localized fox control by trapping and euthanasia, as well as by fencing and other nonlethal predator control methods. Some fox control efforts at wildlife refuges have been challenged in courts. The Department of Fish and Game has been cooperating with other agencies to determine the current population status of the non-native red fox, to assess the damage this introduced predator causes to wildlife, and to take effective action to protect the public and wildlife. Other efforts include informing the public about the threats these foxes pose and about the nature of agency control programs. 2949:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2949Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:56:28 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 91-05 - Thirty-four marshes were surveyed during spring 1991 for territorial Belding's Savannah sparrow (Passerculus sandwichensis beldingi), a state-listed endangered species. Populations were found in 27 marshes from Goleta Slough south to Tijuana Marsh on the Mexican border of southern California. The total for the state was at least 1,844 pairs. Populations varied from 1 to 303 pairs. This statewide estimate is 18.9% less than the 2,274 pairs reported in 1986. However, the largest population at Mugu Lagoon was not completely counted in 1991. If the population at Mugu is assumed to be unchanged from 1986 then the statewide estimate is 9.8% less than in 1986. Major needs for this subspecies include acquiring and restoring upper marsh habitat, providing tidal flushing, protecting marshes from disturbance and degradation, and researching demography, possible intermarsh movement, and the influence of exotic predatory species. 2950:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2950Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:56:11 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 91-02 - The San Joaquin antelope squirrel (Ammospermophilus nelsoni), a state-listed threatened species, formerly occurred in southern and western San Joaquin Valley but has lost about 80% of historic range. The study was conducted during the summers of 1988 and 1989. Surveys resulted in very few new locations for San Joaquin antelope squirrels. Populations of squirrels in the northern part of the species' range and on the floor of the San Joaquin Valley are small, isolated, and in some cases exist in marginal habitat. The core of the species' current distribution is in the southwestern part of the historical range and includes the area from the Elk Hills, western Kern County, west through the Carrizo Plain, in eastern San Luis Obispo County.2953:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2953Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:55:52 -07001991-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-23 - In 1988, 88 northern spotted owl territories were surveyed in northwest California. Of the 123 owls located and identified to age, 10.6% were subadults. Reproductive parameters in northwest California remained stable from 1985 through 1988 with 67.8% of the pairs nesting and 41.2% fledging young. Mean number of young fledged per pair was 0.65 with adult females fledging significantly more young than subadults. In 1988, female turnover rates(26.0%)were significantly greater than male turnover rates (9.3%). There was a nine-fold increase in inter-territorial movements by banded adults and subadults on the Willow Creek study area compared to the previous three years. These movements contributed to the abandonment of four territories but also to the formation of four new territories.2958:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2958Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:54:59 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-20 - Bendire’s Thrasher (Toxostoma bendirei)were surveyed using tape payback in the deserts of southern California. Surveys were conducted along transects in the Mojave Desert in 1986 and 1987 and in the Colorado Desert in 1986. In 1987, habitat characteristics were measured at occupied and unoccupied habitats. The results were combined with a thorough literature review to delineate the distribution of this thrasher in California and to characterize seasonal movement patterns and habitat preferences. The most widespread California population of Bendire’s Thrashers is found in the eastern Mojave Desert. Most records of Bendire’s Thrasher in the Colorado Desert are apparently of early spring migrants. However, one record of breeding birds has been documented there. Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), Mojave yucca (Y. baccata), or Spanish bayonett (Y. schidigera) were always found at sites supporting Bendire's Thrashers. Columnar cholla cactus (Opuntia sp.) also was present at most sites. Populations of perennial shrubs at sites with this thrasher were significantly denser than at sites lacking the bird, otherwise, the species composition and physiognomy of perennial shrubs within the habitat of Bendire’s Thrasher was highly variable. 2959:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2959Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:54:44 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-13 - This report discusses the results of an ecological study of willow flycatchers along the Little Truckee River in Tahoe National Forest during the breeding seasons of 1986 and 1987. The chief objectives of this study were to gather information on willow flycatcher breeding biology, behavior, and habitat requirements, and to develop recommendations for the protection and management of this species. Willow flycatcher territories at Perazzo Meadows and Lacey Valley, Sierra County always included willow clumps and standing or running water. The average territory size was 0.34 ha (0.84 acre) for 22 breeding pairs. Adult flycatchers used areas outside their territories for foraging, especially when feeding young. We estimated approximately one ha (2.5 acres) is typically needed for a family of willow flycatchers. This area includes average territory size plus a 20 m (66 ft) wide foraging zone around the territory. Willow flycatcher nests were always placed about one meter (3 ft) above the ground near the edge of a willow clump. In 1986, 14 or 15 willow flycatchers fledged from 11 nests, an egg-to-fledgling success rate of 29%. In 1987, 10 pairs of willow flycatchers produced 6 fledglings, a 19% success rate. A mid-July snowstorm was responsible for heavy mortalities of eggs and young in 1987. In 1986, severe weather was also responsible for two nest failures, and brown-headed cowbird parasitism caused the loss of another nest. Predation accounted for most of the remaining egg or nestling losses. The net reproductive rate for willow flycatchers in the Sierra Nevada is less than that needed to maintain a stable population. If current reproductive trends continue, willow flycatchers could disappear as a breeding bird in California. 2961:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2961Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:54:29 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-09 - A total of 227 greater sandhill crane pairs was recorded during the survey. The largest number was in Modoc County, with 164 pairs. Lassen County had 75 pairs, followed by Siskiyou County, with 29, Plumas County with 7 and single pairs in both Shasta and Sierra counties. Pairs increased 32% between 1981 and 1988 at 11 traditional nesting locations. During the study, 56 crane nests had a success rate of 37.5%. Nesting success ranged from 0.0% in Ash Creek Valley, Lassen County to 66.7% near Goose Lake, Modoc County. Coyotes were the most important predator, consuming 30.4% of the clutches. Common ravens were the second most important predator, destroying 10.7% of all clutches. Of 37 crane pairs monitored through the nesting season at Surprise Valley, 64.9% never attempted to nest because of extremely dry conditions. Only 20 young fledged from 224 crane pairs surveyed in July and August for a recruitment rate of 4.5%. 2962:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2962Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:54:10 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 89-14 - Habitat and population characteristics of the mountain beaver (Aplodontia rufa) were examined along the north coast of California and in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Population size was estimated and habitat requirements, food habits, climate, and interactions between humans and mountain beavers were evaluated. Four disjunct populations of the Point Arena mountain beaver (A. r. nigra) were located near Point Arena, Mendocino County, consisting of an estimated 17 to 34 individuals occupying 8.5 ha. Four populations of the Point Reyes mountain beaver (A. r. phaea) were located in Point Reyes National Seashore, consisting of an estimated 31 to 38 or more individuals occupying 16.6 ha. Both subspecies apparently occupy only portions of their historical range. A. r. nigra is threatened due to habitat loss from grazing and development. A. r. phaea has been similarly threatened but is more protected due to its presence within Point Reyes National Seashore. The Sierra mountain beaver (A. r. californica) and the Humboldt mountain beaver (A. r. humboldtiana) have larger distributions and more numerous populations than A. r. nigra or A. r. phaea. A decline in A. r. californica populations has apparently occurred in some areas of the subspecies' range due to habitat alteration. Previously undescribed populations were discovered in Mono County occupying habitat considered atypical for the species. There was no apparent change in distribution or population numbers in A. r. humboldtiana populations along the north coast of California. The status of A. r. nigra and A. r. phaea indicates that they warrant increased protection. 2960:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2960Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:53:52 -07001989-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 88-19 - A survey investigating the status of Plecotus townsendii townsendii in coastal California suggests marked population declines in the past 40 years -- a 46% loss in the number of maternity colonies, a 33% decline in the number of roosts, a 65% decline in the total number of animals, and a 37% decrease in the average size of remaining colonies. The data indicate that P. t. townsendii is roost limited, and the primary cause for the observed declines has been human disturbance of roosting sites. The current status of this subspecies is very precarious. The seven known colonies have a total population of only 325 adult females, and only two of these colonies have adequately protected roost sites. Declines are also indicated at the only two known P. t. townsendii hibernating sites. A preliminary survey of a few hibernating sites in northern California for P. t. pallescens suggests populations of this subspecies may be stable in Siskiyou County, but declining in Shasta County. 2964:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2964Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:53:31 -07001988-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-01 - A survey for Xantus’ murrelets and other marine birds at Islas Los Coronados was conducted in spring 1995. This survey focused primarily on providing additional information for a preliminary assessment of the status of Xantus’ murrelets at Islas Los Coronados. The utility of the nocturnal vocalization survey technique for assessing the current status of Xantus’ murrelets at other island colonies in northwestern Baja California was tested. Ashy storm-petrel, brown pelican, cormorants and black oystercatcher nesting behavior was noted and data collected for these species. 2926:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2926Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:53:05 -07001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 86-27 - The native species of land mammals of California which currently do not have state or federal threatened or endangered status were investigated in order to identify at risk taxa. Populations of 36 species and subspecies were found to warrant special concern status. These taxa were placed in three categoies of concern: 13 in the highest category of concern, 11 in the middle category and 12 in the lower category. Information on distribution, population status, habitat, and taxonomy was presented; management recommendations were made. Species dependent or associated with riparian or wetland habitats were affected most severely by human development. Five geographic areas of concern were identified: Colorado River riparian corridor, San Joaquin Valley lowlands, tidal marshes of Los Angeles basin, tidal marshes of San Francisco and San Pablo bays, and grasslands of southern California. Loss and fragmentation of old-growth forests, lack of data on population structure of some game and fur-bearing species, and human disturbances of sensitive species are other important factors generating concern for several species.3033:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3033Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:52:37 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-11 - A survey to determine the population of elf owls in California was conducted from mid-April to mid-May, 1987. Fifty-two sites were checked, of which 49 were along the lower Colorado River from the Nevada to the Mexican borders. A total of 17 to 24 elf owls were found at 10 sites along the Colorado River and may have been breeding at seven to nine of these sites. The 17 to 24 responses represent 15 to 18 pairs of elf owls. Almost all potential habitat was surveyed and these birds present the vast majority of elf owls in California. It is very unlikely that the state’s population exceeds 25 pairs. 3030:4https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3030Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:51:52 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00ListingPetitionNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-18 - The gilded northern flicker is a native species in serious danger of becoming extirpated throughout all or a significant portion of its range in California, primarily due to loss of riparian habitat. Genetic swamping from hybridization with the red-shafted northern flicker (C.a. cafer)at Cima Dome has reduced that population to a few individuals. It should be classified as endangered pursuant to Section 2062 of the California Fish and Game Code. 3025:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3025Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:51:05 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-19 - Thirty-nine short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) nests were found at Grizzly Island Wildlife Area during the spring of 1987. Elsewhere in the state, one nest was found at Mendota Wildlife Area, five were found at Ash Creek Wildlife Area, and two were found at Honey Lake Wildlife Area. Nests and owls were found in the course of surveying managed and unmanaged upland habitat for waterfowl nests. At Grizzly Island Wildlife Area, the sort-eared owl nesting density during the spring of 1987 was 7.0 nests per 100 acres in managed fields, as opposed to 3.8 nests per 100 acres in unmanaged uplands. Overall, based on a total of 4000 acres of upland habitat at Grizzly Island Wildlife Area, the estimated density of nests was 4.1 per 100 acres, or 163 possible nests. The phenomenal increase in the number of short-eared owl nests at Grizzly Island was associated with experimental upland management of grassland for waterfowl nesting. Upland management appeared to result in increases in the populations of California voles (Microtus californicus) and harvest mice (Reithrodontomys sp.), and appeared to provide preferred nesting habitat. These results suggest that short-eared owls are opportunistic in their breeding behavior, and are able to take advantage of high prey abundance and increases in optimal nesting habitat. 3024:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3024Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:50:52 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 85-10 - During the 1984 breeding season, 19 meadows in 9 counties were surveyed for great gray owls. Owls were found in 7 meadows, all in the Yosemite area. Reproduction was documented at 4 of these sites. The statewide revised great gray owl population is estimated at 60 individuals. Breeding was documented in 1981 and 1984, years in which microtine rodents and pocket gopher populations were most abundant.3035:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3035Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:49:52 -07001985-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 86-01 - A study to determine the status of the northern goshawk in California was conducted during the summers of 1981-1983. A comparison of historic and current breeding distribution and abundance was studied. Reproductive performance, habitat utilization and food habits were cursorially examined. Approximately 1300 nesting territories were found, 805 (61%) of which were active in any given year. Approximately 733 (91%)of the active nests fledged one young. Statewide, the species appeared to be reproductively healthy. Regionally, however, the species was doing poorly in the north coastal ranges and the Klamath Mountains east side of the Sierra Nevada. Timber harvesting was the most important factor influencing goshawk populations in the state. Climatic variables were also important factors for goshawk survival, particularly in the Sierra. The effect of falconry appeared to be negligible statewide but may be an important factor locally.3034:3https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3034Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:37:33 -07001986-01-01T00:00:00ReportBird and Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-07 - A four year survey (1987-1991) investigating the status of Townsend’s big-eared bat in California shows marked population declines over the past 40 years: a 52% loss in the number of maternity colonies, a 44% decline in the number of available roosts, a 55% decline in the total number of animals (primarily adult females), and a 32% decrease in the average size of remaining colonies. The data indicate that this species is roost limited, and the primary cause for the observed declines has been human disturbance of roosting sites. The 37 known colonies have a total population of approximately 4,250 adult females. Only three of these colonies have adequately protected roost sites. Declines are also indicated at four important hibernating sites for which past population data are available.3038:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3038Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:36:45 -07001996-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 82-03 - A statewide survey of Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nesting populations was conducted to determine breeding status and population characteristics. The most comprehensive information was provided by U.S. Forest Service personnel, for Osprey nesting on Forest Service lands in the interior regions of northern California. Forest Service records suggest that these populations are stable and probably increasing. Nesting records from the north coast and other areas of the state are sporadic. In 1982, late storms appear to have had a negative effect on Osprey nesting success in northern California. Systematic aerial surveys throughout suitable Osprey habitat statewide are needed for accurate assessments of population status and trends. 3041:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3041Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:36:26 -07001982-01-01T00:00:00ReportNongame Wildlife Investigations 80-30 - Eight adult bobcats (7 males, 1 female) were trapped in box-traps, radio-collared and released on Joshua Tree National Monument, Riverside County, California, during 2634 trap nights between 2 December 1978 and 1 April 1979. Minimum bobcat density is 0.1 bobcats/km2(0.25/mi2). Home range size of 7 bobcats determined by 1310 radiolocations averaged 26.3 km2 (10.2 mi2). Male bobcat home ranges were overlapped as greatly as 66% by other male bobcats. The female bobcat home range was overlapped 75% by one male bobcat. A crepuscular bobcat activity pattern existed during the spring months. These bobcat activity patterns corresponded to the abundance of rodents and rabbits as determined by roadside census during the study.3042:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3042Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:35:40 -07001980-01-01T00:00:00ListingPetitionNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-17 - In a recent extensive survey of bird populations and riparian habitat use along the Colorado River, approximately 200 gila woodpeckers were found in California with relatively few breeding pairs. The continued existence of this species in California is seriously threatened by further reduction of mature riparian habitat along the lower Colorado River due to water development projects, recent severe and prolonged flooding, and competition with introduced starlings for nest sites. Listing this species as "endangered" in California is recommended. 3026:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3026Tue, 30 Oct 2007 10:21:14 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00ListingPetitionNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 87-16 - Historically, the Arizona Bell’s vireo was common to abundant along the Colorado River in California. The species has undergone a drastic population decline due to the massive loss of riparian habitat compounded by nest parasitism of the brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater). In recent surveys of bird populations in riparian habitat along the length of the California side of the Colorado River, 35 singing males were detected in 1981 and only four singing males were detected in 1986. The continued existence of this taxon in California is seriously threatened by further reduction of riparian habitat along the lower Colorado River due to water development projects, agricultural conversion, recent severe and prolonged flooding, and nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds. Listing the taxon as "endangered" is recommended. 3027:2https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=3027Tue, 30 Oct 2007 10:20:56 -07001987-01-01T00:00:00RecoveryPlanNongame Bird and Mammal Section Report 93-02 - The bank swallow recovery plan summarizes recent recovery accomplishments and identifies several specific actions that must be implemented in order to achieve the goal of species recovery. The current population of bank swallows in California occupies a small part of its historic range. The center of the current range is along the remaining natural river banks of the Sacramento and Feather rivers in the Sacramento Valley. This region supports an estimated 70 percent of the statewide population. One of the primary reasons for decline of this species is loss of habitat. Bank protection projects have resulted in the rip-rapping of several miles of naturally eroding riverbank that the bank swallows depend on for nesting. The recovery plan includes an evaluation of artificial habitat and the primary management strategy consisting of protection, enhancement, and maintenance of natural habitats. Management alternatives discussed include the avoidance of impacts to natural bank habitats, a set-back levee/meander belt system, and consideration of the habitat needs of the bank swallow in existing habitat preserve plans currently proposed for portions of the Sacramento River. 2945:1https://nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=2945Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:10:57 -07001992-01-01T00:00:00