Search

Search Results

• 1. [Article] Predator Exclosures, Predator Removal, and Habitat Improvement Increase Nest Success of Snowy Plovers in Oregon, USA

  Management to increase reproductive success is commonly used to aid recovery of threatened and endangered species. The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) breeds from coastal Washington, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Predator Exclosures, Predator Removal, and Habitat Improvement Increase Nest Success of Snowy Plovers in Oregon, USA Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Stern, Mark A. Year: 2014 Management to increase reproductive success is commonly used to aid recovery of threatened and endangered species. The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) breeds from coastal Washington, USA, to Baja California, Mexico, and in disjunct interior sites. The Pacific coast population is federally listed as Threatened; habitat loss and nest loss to a suite of terrestrial and avian predators are thought to be primary factors limiting population growth in this species. In coastal Oregon, USA, a consortium of state and federal management agencies deployed nest exclosures on active Snowy Plover nests, initiated a lethal predator management program, and conducted local-scale habitat management in an effort to boost local productivity. During 1990–2009, we monitored 1,951 Snowy Plover nests at 9 sites with varying treatments. We examined the effectiveness of 3 types of nest exclosures (large, small, and outfitted with electric wire), predator removal, and habitat management on nest survival. Habitat management to remove invasive grasses and provide more suitable nesting substrate more than doubled nest survival. Predator management or use of any of the 3 types of exclosures also affected nest survival. There appeared to be no additional benefit to using both approaches, but the biological relevance of these findings is unclear because of site differences in treatments applied. Importantly, these management techniques only affected nesting success; their effect on other contributions to population viability (e.g., fledging success) was not correlated with nesting success. This long-term study illustrates the short-term benefits and tradeoffs of using nest exclosures, predator management, and habitat restoration to improve nesting success. Although we gained broader insight into the relative efficacy of common management techniques to improve avian nesting success, we cannot yet determine how improved nest success contributes to population growth. Title: Predator Exclosures, Predator Removal, and Habitat Improvement Increase Nest Success of Snowy Plovers in Oregon, USA Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Stern, Mark A. Year: 2014 Management to increase reproductive success is commonly used to aid recovery of threatened and endangered species. The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) breeds from coastal Washington, USA, to Baja California, Mexico, and in disjunct interior sites. The Pacific coast population is federally listed as Threatened; habitat loss and nest loss to a suite of terrestrial and avian predators are thought to be primary factors limiting population growth in this species. In coastal Oregon, USA, a consortium of state and federal management agencies deployed nest exclosures on active Snowy Plover nests, initiated a lethal predator management program, and conducted local-scale habitat management in an effort to boost local productivity. During 1990–2009, we monitored 1,951 Snowy Plover nests at 9 sites with varying treatments. We examined the effectiveness of 3 types of nest exclosures (large, small, and outfitted with electric wire), predator removal, and habitat management on nest survival. Habitat management to remove invasive grasses and provide more suitable nesting substrate more than doubled nest survival. Predator management or use of any of the 3 types of exclosures also affected nest survival. There appeared to be no additional benefit to using both approaches, but the biological relevance of these findings is unclear because of site differences in treatments applied. Importantly, these management techniques only affected nesting success; their effect on other contributions to population viability (e.g., fledging success) was not correlated with nesting success. This long-term study illustrates the short-term benefits and tradeoffs of using nest exclosures, predator management, and habitat restoration to improve nesting success. Although we gained broader insight into the relative efficacy of common management techniques to improve avian nesting success, we cannot yet determine how improved nest success contributes to population growth. Close

• 2. [Article] Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population

  Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Pearson, Scott F., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J. Year: 2017 Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We studied federally threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) broods at the northern limit of their range in coastal Oregon (n ¼ 1,157) and Washington (n ¼ 84) from 1991 to 2011 in an attempt to understand seasonal, annual, and spatial patterns of chick survival. In Oregon, plover chick survival increased with age, varied between sites, and was greater at sites with predator management. The mean probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Oregon was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.63). In Washington, where predator management was not employed, we conducted separate analyses using individually banded and unbanded chicks and results indicated that survival generally increased with chick age. The mean estimated probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Washington was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.35) for individually banded chicks when perfect detection was assumed. This probability increased to 0.67 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.83) when we analyzed unbanded chicks and included detection probability. Our findings confirm the importance of considering age effects in the survival of Snowy Plover chicks and raise questions about the validity of assuming perfect detection of plover chicks during brood checks. This work also highlights the benefit of predator management on chick survival. Title: Factors Affecting Snowy Plover Chick Survival in a Managed Population Author: Dinsmore, Stephen J., Gaines, Eleanor P., Pearson, Scott F., Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J. Year: 2017 Understanding survival of precocial chicks in the period immediately following hatching has important conservation implications because population growth is often sensitive to post-hatching survival. We studied federally threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) broods at the northern limit of their range in coastal Oregon (n ¼ 1,157) and Washington (n ¼ 84) from 1991 to 2011 in an attempt to understand seasonal, annual, and spatial patterns of chick survival. In Oregon, plover chick survival increased with age, varied between sites, and was greater at sites with predator management. The mean probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Oregon was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.63). In Washington, where predator management was not employed, we conducted separate analyses using individually banded and unbanded chicks and results indicated that survival generally increased with chick age. The mean estimated probability of surviving from hatch to fledging at 28 days of age in Washington was 0.27 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.35) for individually banded chicks when perfect detection was assumed. This probability increased to 0.67 (95% CI: 0.41, 0.83) when we analyzed unbanded chicks and included detection probability. Our findings confirm the importance of considering age effects in the survival of Snowy Plover chicks and raise questions about the validity of assuming perfect detection of plover chicks during brood checks. This work also highlights the benefit of predator management on chick survival. Close

• 3. [Article] Report on Wintering Western Snowy Plovers at Coos Bay North Spit and Impacts to Plovers from The North Jetty Repair Project, Winter 2009

  The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) breeds along the coast of the Pacific Ocean in California, Oregon, and Washington and at alkaline lakes in the interior of the western United ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Report on Wintering Western Snowy Plovers at Coos Bay North Spit and Impacts to Plovers from The North Jetty Repair Project, Winter 2009 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2009 The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) breeds along the coast of the Pacific Ocean in California, Oregon, and Washington and at alkaline lakes in the interior of the western United States (Page et al. 1991). Loss of habitat, predation pressures, and disturbance have caused the decline of the coastal population of Snowy Plovers and led to the listing of the Pacific Coast Population of Western Snowy Plovers as Threatened on March 5, 1993 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1993). Oregon Western Snowy Plovers are known to winter along the coast of Oregon as well as migrate to other wintering locations, mainly in California (Lauten et al. 2001, ORNHIC unpublished data). Previous winter surveys along the Oregon coast (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, unpublished data, ORNHIC unpublished data) have documented the locations of wintering Snowy Plovers. Coos Bay North Spit (CBNS) is one location where plovers are known to winter. During the winter of 2008-2009, Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) contracted Kerr Contractors, Inc. to complete repairs on the North Jetty of the Coos River. ACOE consulted with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regarding impacts to sensitive species including Western Snowy Plover. ACOE contracted Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center (ORNHIC) to complete two Snowy Plover surveys prior to jetty repair work, two plover surveys per week during repair work, and two plover surveys post repair work to document any potential impacts to wintering plovers. In winter, plovers tend to spend much of their time roosting along the high tide wrack line, but also spend time foraging, often on the wet sand near the surf (ORHIC, unpublished data). At CBNS, winter Snowy Plover survey data has shown that plovers will roost and feed on the beach north of the North Jetty, but also spend time roosting on the South Spoil and Habitat Restoration Areas (HRAs) east of the foredune. Large 20-ton dump trucks and other large equipment were used to haul material to the North Jetty. Vehicles used the foredune road that bisects the HRAs. Our objectives were to survey and monitor Snowy Plovers on the beach, HRAs, and South Spoil, to document the number of plovers using the area and any impacts or disturbance to the plovers during the North Jetty repair project. Title: Report on Wintering Western Snowy Plovers at Coos Bay North Spit and Impacts to Plovers from The North Jetty Repair Project, Winter 2009 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2009 The Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) breeds along the coast of the Pacific Ocean in California, Oregon, and Washington and at alkaline lakes in the interior of the western United States (Page et al. 1991). Loss of habitat, predation pressures, and disturbance have caused the decline of the coastal population of Snowy Plovers and led to the listing of the Pacific Coast Population of Western Snowy Plovers as Threatened on March 5, 1993 (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1993). Oregon Western Snowy Plovers are known to winter along the coast of Oregon as well as migrate to other wintering locations, mainly in California (Lauten et al. 2001, ORNHIC unpublished data). Previous winter surveys along the Oregon coast (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, unpublished data, ORNHIC unpublished data) have documented the locations of wintering Snowy Plovers. Coos Bay North Spit (CBNS) is one location where plovers are known to winter. During the winter of 2008-2009, Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) contracted Kerr Contractors, Inc. to complete repairs on the North Jetty of the Coos River. ACOE consulted with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regarding impacts to sensitive species including Western Snowy Plover. ACOE contracted Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center (ORNHIC) to complete two Snowy Plover surveys prior to jetty repair work, two plover surveys per week during repair work, and two plover surveys post repair work to document any potential impacts to wintering plovers. In winter, plovers tend to spend much of their time roosting along the high tide wrack line, but also spend time foraging, often on the wet sand near the surf (ORHIC, unpublished data). At CBNS, winter Snowy Plover survey data has shown that plovers will roost and feed on the beach north of the North Jetty, but also spend time roosting on the South Spoil and Habitat Restoration Areas (HRAs) east of the foredune. Large 20-ton dump trucks and other large equipment were used to haul material to the North Jetty. Vehicles used the foredune road that bisects the HRAs. Our objectives were to survey and monitor Snowy Plovers on the beach, HRAs, and South Spoil, to document the number of plovers using the area and any impacts or disturbance to the plovers during the North Jetty repair project. Close

• 4. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010

  From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2010 From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2010 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational information about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 232-236 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 175 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 261 nests in 2010, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall Mayfield nest success was 25%. Exclosed nests (n = 67) had a 72% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 194) had a 23% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (24%), unknown cause (17%), one-egg nests (15%), rodent depredation (14%), abandonment (12%), wind/weather (5%), corvid depredation (5%), mammalian depredation (4%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (2%), and adult depredation (1%). We monitored 94 broods, including two from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 80 fledglings. Overall brood success was 55%, fledging success was 33%, and 0.90 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2010 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2010 From 8 April – 27 September 2010 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2010 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational information about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 232-236 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 175 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 261 nests in 2010, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall Mayfield nest success was 25%. Exclosed nests (n = 67) had a 72% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 194) had a 23% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (24%), unknown cause (17%), one-egg nests (15%), rodent depredation (14%), abandonment (12%), wind/weather (5%), corvid depredation (5%), mammalian depredation (4%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (2%), and adult depredation (1%). We monitored 94 broods, including two from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 80 fledglings. Overall brood success was 55%, fledging success was 33%, and 0.90 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 5. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011

  From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2011 From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2011 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2011 From 6 April – 19 September 2011 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2011 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators when and where needed, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 247-253 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 214 individuals were known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 289 nests in 2011, the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 50%. Exclosed nests (n = 48) had a 71% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 241) had a 48% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (22%), corvid depredation (20%), unknown cause (18%), one-egg nests (16%), abandonment (15%), wind/weather (3%), mammalian depredation (2%), adult plover depredation (2%), infertility (1%), and rodent depredation (1%). We monitored 148 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 168 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 46%, and 1.57 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 6. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2012

  From 5 April – 21 September 2012 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2012 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2012 From 5 April – 21 September 2012 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Snowy Plover Management Area, New River HRA and adjacent lands, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2012 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) determine nest success, 4) use mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators as needed, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 290-91 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 231-238 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 314 nests in 2012; the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 45%. Exclosed nests (n = 22) had an 82% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 289) had a 42% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation, unknown cause, corvid depredation, abandonment, one egg nests, wind/weather, mammalian depredation, overwashing, adult plover depredation, and infertility. We monitored 154 broods, including 11 from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 173 fledglings. Overall brood success was 70%, fledging success was 43%, and 1.37 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2012 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Kotaich, Adam A., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2012 From 5 April – 21 September 2012 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Snowy Plover Management Area, New River HRA and adjacent lands, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2012 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) determine nest success, 4) use mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators as needed, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 290-91 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 231-238 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 314 nests in 2012; the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 45%. Exclosed nests (n = 22) had an 82% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 289) had a 42% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation, unknown cause, corvid depredation, abandonment, one egg nests, wind/weather, mammalian depredation, overwashing, adult plover depredation, and infertility. We monitored 154 broods, including 11 from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 173 fledglings. Overall brood success was 70%, fledging success was 43%, and 1.37 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 7. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2013

  From 26 March – 19 September 2013 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2013 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Breyer, Melissa F., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2013 From 26 March – 19 September 2013 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North and South Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Snowy Plover Management Area, New River HRA and adjacent lands, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2013 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) determine nest success, 4) use mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators as needed, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 304 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 190-191 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 381 nests in 2013; the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 24%. Exclosed nests (n = 18) had an 83% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 362) had a 21% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation, unknown cause, avian depredation, corvid depredation, one-egg nests, wind/weather, abandonment, mammalian depredation, overwashed, infertility, and adult plover depredation. We monitored 101 broods, including eight from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 103 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 39%, and 1.04 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to maintain recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2013 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Breyer, Melissa F., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2013 From 26 March – 19 September 2013 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North and South Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Snowy Plover Management Area, New River HRA and adjacent lands, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2013 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) determine nest success, 4) use mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators as needed, 5) determine fledging success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 304 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 190-191 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990. We monitored 381 nests in 2013; the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990. Overall apparent nest success was 24%. Exclosed nests (n = 18) had an 83% apparent nest success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 362) had a 21% apparent nest success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation, unknown cause, avian depredation, corvid depredation, one-egg nests, wind/weather, abandonment, mammalian depredation, overwashed, infertility, and adult plover depredation. We monitored 101 broods, including eight from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 103 fledglings. Overall brood success was 71%, fledging success was 39%, and 1.04 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to maintain recovery goals. Close

• 8. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2007

  From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2007 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Pruner, Raya, Friel, Marvin, Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2007 From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2007 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 181-184 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 162 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 202). Overall Mayfield nest success was 33%. Exclosed nests (n=38) had a 66% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=164) had a 41% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (20%), one-egg nests (20%), corvid depredation (17%), abandonment (16%), unknown cause (7%), unknown mammal depredation (7%), overwashed (3%), infertility (3%), coyote depredation (3%), wind/weather (3%), raccoon depredation (1%), and adult plover depredation (1%). We monitored 89 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 123 fledglings; the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. Overall brood success was 82%, fledgling success was 54%, and 1.60 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2007 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Pruner, Raya, Friel, Marvin, Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2007 From 3 April – 21 September 2007, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2007 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 181-184 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 162 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found the highest number of nests since monitoring began in 1990 (n = 202). Overall Mayfield nest success was 33%. Exclosed nests (n=38) had a 66% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n=164) had a 41% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (20%), one-egg nests (20%), corvid depredation (17%), abandonment (16%), unknown cause (7%), unknown mammal depredation (7%), overwashed (3%), infertility (3%), coyote depredation (3%), wind/weather (3%), raccoon depredation (1%), and adult plover depredation (1%). We monitored 89 broods, including four from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 123 fledglings; the highest number of fledglings since monitoring began in 1990. Overall brood success was 82%, fledgling success was 54%, and 1.60 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 9. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2008

  From 1 April – 24 September 2008, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2008 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Bailey, David C., Lewis, Travis, Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2008 From 1 April – 24 September 2008, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2008 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of miniexclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 187-199 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 129 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found 196 nests in 2008. Overall Mayfield nest success was 30%. Exclosed nests (n = 51) had a 44% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 145) had a 38% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (28%), one-egg nests (17%), corvid depredation (15%), abandonment (15%), unknown cause (9%), wind (6%), overwashed (6%), adult depredation (2%), infertility (2%), unknown mammal depredation (1%), and weasel depredation (1%). We monitored 70 broods, including three from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 71 fledglings. Overall brood success was 66%, fledgling success was 47%, and 1.13 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2008 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Bailey, David C., Lewis, Travis, Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2008 From 1 April – 24 September 2008, we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, and New River. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2008 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selected use of miniexclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 187-199 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 129 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found 196 nests in 2008. Overall Mayfield nest success was 30%. Exclosed nests (n = 51) had a 44% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 145) had a 38% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (28%), one-egg nests (17%), corvid depredation (15%), abandonment (15%), unknown cause (9%), wind (6%), overwashed (6%), adult depredation (2%), infertility (2%), unknown mammal depredation (1%), and weasel depredation (1%). We monitored 70 broods, including three from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 71 fledglings. Overall brood success was 66%, fledgling success was 47%, and 1.13 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close

• 10. [Article] The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2009

  From 3 April – 23 September 2009 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2009 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Herlyn, Hendrik G., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2009 From 3 April – 23 September 2009 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2009 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 199-206 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 149-150 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found 236 nests in 2009. Overall Mayfield nest success was 23%. Exclosed nests (n = 34) had a 76% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 202) had a 25% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (29%), rodent depredation (21%), unknown cause (17%), oneegg nests (12%), corvid depredation (8%), abandonment (7%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (1%), wind (1%), canine depredation (1%), and raccoon depredation (1%). We monitored 88 broods, including eight from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 106 fledglings. Overall brood success was 73%, fledgling success was 50%, and 1.33 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Title: The Distribution and Reproductive Success of the Western Snowy Plover along the Oregon Coast - 2009 Author: Lauten, David J., Castelein, Kathleen J., Farrar, J. Daniel, Herlyn, Hendrik G., Gaines, Eleanor P. Year: 2009 From 3 April – 23 September 2009 we monitored the distribution, abundance and productivity of the federally Threatened Western Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus) along the Oregon coast. From north to south, we surveyed and monitored plover activity at Sutton Beach, Siltcoos River estuary, the Dunes Overlook, North Tahkenitch Creek, Tenmile Creek, Coos Bay North Spit, Bandon Beach, New River, and Floras Lake. Our objectives for the Oregon coastal population in 2009 were to: 1) estimate the size of the adult Snowy Plover population, 2) locate plover nests, 3) continue selective use of mini-exclosures (MEs) to protect nests from predators and evaluate whether exclosure use can be reduced, 4) determine nest success, 5) determine fledgling success, 6) monitor brood movements, 7) collect general observational data about predators, and 8) evaluate the effectiveness of predator management. We observed an estimated 199-206 adult Snowy Plovers; a minimum of 149-150 individuals was known to have nested. The adult plover population was the highest estimate recorded since monitoring began in 1990, and we found 236 nests in 2009. Overall Mayfield nest success was 23%. Exclosed nests (n = 34) had a 76% success rate, and unexclosed nests (n = 202) had a 25% success rate. Nest failures were attributed to unknown depredation (29%), rodent depredation (21%), unknown cause (17%), oneegg nests (12%), corvid depredation (8%), abandonment (7%), wave overwash (2%), infertility (1%), wind (1%), canine depredation (1%), and raccoon depredation (1%). We monitored 88 broods, including eight from unknown nests, and documented a minimum of 106 fledglings. Overall brood success was 73%, fledgling success was 50%, and 1.33 fledglings per male were produced. Continued predator management, habitat improvement and maintenance, and management of recreational activities at all sites are recommended to achieve recovery goals. Close