2009 SEPIF/SEQSG Joint Meeting Presentations Powered By Title BEAC Interface with PIF First author Joni Ellis Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Bird Education Alliance for Conservation Number of authors 1 Second author   Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Education and communications is essential to achieving conservation success but they have not received adequate attention to date. In spring 2008, BEAC offered to serve as the PIF Education and Communications Working Group. This leadership, coordination of activities, and essential participation in PIF Implementation and Science Committees’ activities has shown to be greatly beneficial thus far. Additionally, outreach at the North American Association for Environmental Education Conference, National Association for Interpreters Workshop, and National Gatherings for Bird Educators has increased the involvement and buy-in of educators in BEAC, and, thereby, the PIF Working Group. In 2009, strong leadership of education and communications for PIF will be even more essential. The TriNational Assessment report will be completed, and a communications team’s involvement in the design of the report and preparation of a communications strategy must be facilitated. Over one-third of the needs in the McAllen Needs Assessment relate to education, outreach, and communications. In the first year of its implementation, much must be accomplished to lay a foundation for successfully addressing needs. PIF has an unprecedented opportunity to draw attention to the importance of landbird conservation with its 20th anniversary in 2010, which requires appropriate communications planning and strategizing. Get familar with this new partnership by attending this session. Link for presentation   Title A bird's-eye view of climate change First author Robert J. Cooper Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 Number of authors 3 Second author Kirk W. Stodola Third author Michael J. Conroy Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Songbirds have shown some of the earliest measured effects of climate change through geographic range shifts and other phenomena. However, the consequences of continued climatic change on birds and other biota remain largely unknown. The Breeding Bird Survey is a well-known means for assessing species response to large-scale changes; however, it may exist at too coarse a scale to assess the consequences of climate change. Consequently, we advocate a multi-scaled approach towards assessing the effects of climate change on birds through investigating bird community shifts, species-specific demographic responses, and experimentation to test plausible mechanistic responses to climatic changes. This approach builds on our previous work at the Coweeta Hydorology Lab LTER, North Carolina, where over the last six years we have used elevational gradients as a surrogate for climatic variability. Because food resources peak earlier at low elevations, Black-throated Blue Warblers nest when food abundance is low (i.e., mis-timed breeding). Consequently, we find a shorter breeding season, decreased food provisioning to nests, and decreased weights of young. These results suggest a mechanism by which long-distance migrant bird populations are declining in the Southern Appalachians, but without long-term data and experimentation this is just speculation. We advocate a long-term monitoring program that focuses on using elevational gradients as described above. First, a broader community approach would feature surveys along elevation and latitude gradients throughout the Southern Appalachians. Second, demographic work and experimentation would focus on select species as indicators of climate change effects in order to investigate mechanisms for population changes. Link for presentation Click to download Title Tracking Bobwhite Restoration Success: A Proposal From The SEQSG Ad Hoc Committee on “Defining NBCI Success” First author Mark Gudlin Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, P.O. Box 40747, Nashville, TN 37204 Number of authors 2 Second author Roger Applegate Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract At the request of the SEQSG Steering Committee, an Ad Hoc Committee was formed in December 2008 to address the issues surrounding how to define and determine what an “NBCI Success” is. This issue was prompted by Missouri’s declaration this past year to have had two “NBCI Successes”, one in Scott County and one in Cass County. As discussion amongst SEQSG members ensued, it was realized that this topic was much more complex than it appeared on the surface. The purpose of identifying and subsequently publicizing quail population successes attributable to the NBCI is to help continue and increase the momentum for quail habitat and population restoration across the bobwhite range, promote necessary policy, and help ensure continued funding. Specifically, this is accomplished by 1) identifying legitimate bobwhite restoration successes by recognizing scientifically-based examples that demonstrate such success can be achieved, 2) adding these successes to the database of general knowledge in order that others might use and replicate such approaches so success can be repeated, and 3) giving hope to quail enthusiasts and the general public that the NBCI goal of restoring bobwhites across the species’ range can be achieved if enough effort, manpower and funding are dedicated to the restoration and maintenance of ample quality habitat through sound land use practices and government programs and policies. Link for presentation Click to download Title Ecoregional Partnerships for Sustaining Bird Populations in the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture: The South Atlantic Migratory Bird Initiative First author Craig Watson Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Atlantic Coast Joint Venture, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Number of authors 3 Second author Tim Jones Third author Andrew Milliken Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract The Atlantic Coast Joint Venture's (ACJV) first ecoregional partnership and planning effort began in 1999 with the initiation of the South Atlantic Migratory Bird Initiative (SAMBI). The initiative has been extremely successful, with State Working groups and regional coordination key to its success. Over $38 million in grants have been awarded to SAMBI partners, conserving over 225,000 acres at over 80 project sites, with partners contributing over $176 million in grant funds. The South Atlantic is under extreme threat of commercial, industrial, and residential development, however, much of the remaining habitats can be conserved. The ACJV is approaching this challenge through Strategic Habitat Conservation, partnering with Auburn and North Carolina State Universities to implement a landscape conservation design project across the SAMBI planning area to develop models and Decision Support Tools to sustain bird populations within the ecoregion. Link for presentation   Title New tools for managers to learn from point count data First author Rua S. Mordecai Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Southeast Partners in Flight, Cary, NC, 27511 Number of authors 4 Second author Melinda G. Knutson Third author Todd W. Sutherland Fourth author Brian R. Mitchell Presentation type Oral Abstract A number of increasingly popular approaches to management, such as Strategic Habitat Conservation and Adaptive Resource Management, require that monitoring data are regularly analyzed to inform management decisions. However, due to the specialized knowledge required to analyze modern monitoring data, data are often only analyzed (and thus only inform management) in erratic and irregular intervals. We describe new computer software, abundanceR, that allows managers to evaluate simple management questions while accounting for imperfect detection using time-removal methods. Users import monitoring data directly from the USGS Bird Point Count Database, select target species, group monitoring points based on management questions, and are provided with group-specific estimates of abundance and associated confidence intervals based on results from multiple competing models. As abundanceR uses program MARK for all estimation, it also formats data from the USGS Bird Point Count Database for direct input into program MARK. abundanceR is currently under going testing by National Wildlife Refuge biologists in the Midwest with anticipated release to all interested users in late 2009. Link for presentation Click to download Title Habitat use by marsh birds within the changing physical and legal landscapes of the Northern Gulf Coast of the United States First author Scott A. Rush Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author D. B. Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA Number of authors 6 Second author Christine B. Ledvinka Third author Eric. C. Soehren Fourth author Aaron T. Fisk Presentation type Poster Abstract Tidal marsh continues to disappear from the southern coasts of the United States. Local and state land-use regulations can dictate the level of anthropogenic impacts on these environments. The ecology of marsh birds that inhabit this ecotype, species such as the Clapper Rail (Rallus longirostris), Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), and Seaside Sparrow (Ammodramus maritimus) remains largely unknown. We used standardized marsh bird surveys and GIS to examine the spatial distributions of these marsh bird species at several locations in Mississippi and Alabama. Across our study systems, we found marsh bird occupancy correlated with landscape features measured at various spatial scales. Application of ecological tracers in the form of stable isotopes provides further insight into the trophic and reproductive ecology of Clapper Rails from several spatially distinct locations in Mississippi. For Clapper Rails, evidence suggests that diet and reproductive success may vary both within and between estuarine systems and can be linked to hydrologic conditions. Applying several reproductive metrics we will discuss possible relationships between ecotype, trophic interactions, habitat use, population demographics and the potential impacts of sea level rise and anthropogenic development. Synthesis of this information will not only further our understanding of the ecology of tidal communities, but will also contribute to law makers’ ability to make strategic policy choices that protect these estuarine ecosystems. Link for presentation   Title Above Ground Foraging and Occupancy by Swainson’s Warblers in Flooded Habitat First author Bryan Reiley Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72401 Number of authors 3 Second author Nick Anich Third author Jim Bednarz Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract The Swainson’s Warbler (Limnothlypis swainsonii), a species of conservation concern in the southeastern U.S. We have conducted a demographic study of Swainson’s Warblers occupying bottomland hardwood forest at the White River National Wildlife Refuge (WRNWR) since 2005. During the early spring of 2008, excessive rainfall led to above average flows on the White River and extreme flooding of the WRNWR including our study area in the spring. From 2005 to 2007, we detected a mean of 43 male Swainson’s Warblers at our study site. During the flood of 2008, surveys revealed the presence of only 25 males, of which, 10 defended territories over completely-flooded ground. We felt that the retention and survival of these birds over inundated habitat was unlikely as Swainson’s Warblers have been categorized as obligate ground foragers, using leaf lifting to search for insects. However, we witnessed birds employing previously unreported foraging behaviors and feeding from novel substrates. These included feeding off flotsam, gleaning insects from tree limbs, and searching for insects by lifting leaves from hanging leaf clusters and loose bark along tree limbs during the flood. We found a reduced return rate of birds (0.36, n = 47 birds). Return rates of Swainson’s Warblers in our study site were 0.53 (n = 40) in 2005-06 and 0.58 (n = 43) in 2006-07. This is the first report of Swainson’s Warblers occupying and foraging in flooded habitat, and these data suggest this species may have more flexibility in their exploitation of flooded habitats. Link for presentation Click to download Title Analysis of grassland bird trends over 12 years at Fort Campbell Military Reservation (Kentucky-Tennessee) First author E. Daniel Moss Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Colorado State University, Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands,1490 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523 Number of authors 3 Second author David A. Buehler Third author James J. Giocomo Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Fort Campbell Military Reservation is a 42,000-ha U.S. Army base located on the Kentucky-Tennessee state line and is listed as a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy. Fort Campbell has maintained an estimated 10,000 ha of native grasslands and oak savannas. Military exercises at Fort Campbell require open lands to facilitate training activities for the 101st Airborne Division’s troops. Grasslands provide ideal conditions for training because the grasslands are durable, provide great visibility, and can be effectively managed with the use of fire. The habitat conditions that provide suitable conditions for training activities also coincidentally provide excellent conditions for grassland birds. Between 100 and 200 point counts were conducted annually over 12 years resulting in over 1500 point counts and 27,339 bird records. We examined the distribution, diversity, and conservation implications for seven high priority grassland bird species including Northern Bobwhite, Dickcissel, Henslow’s, Grasshopper, Field, Lark, and Bachman’s Sparrows. Where possible, we also compared the population trends within Fort Campbell to regional Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) population trends in the Central Hardwoods Bird Conservation Region (CHBCR). At Fort Campbell, Bachman’s Sparrows are present but rare, while there are no records of Bachman’s Sparrow on the BBS in Tennessee and only 2 records in Kentucky. Henslow’s Sparrows were first detected at Fort Campbell in 1995, and have since increased in the CHBCR. Northern Bobwhite have declined at Fort Campbell while they decreased by 3.2% annually in the CHBCR. Link for presentation   Title Integrated Management: Using Precision Agriculture Technology to Optimize Conservation and Profitability in Agricultural Landscapes First author Mark McConnell Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS 39762 Number of authors 2 Second author Loren Wes Burger Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract USDA Farm Bill conservation programs provide landowner incentives to remove marginal lands from agricultural production and reestablish them to natural vegetation (e.g., native grasses, trees, etc.). However, removal of arable land from production imposes an opportunity cost associated with loss in revenue from commodities that otherwise would have been produced. Strategic implementation of conservation programs is essential to optimize environmental and economic benefits. We used precision agriculture tools (i.e., yield monitors, AgLeader and GIS software) to develop spatially explicit profit surfaces for soybean production fields in the Black Belt Prairie region of Mississippi. We identified field regions where profitability under Continuous Conservation Reserve Program Conservation Practice 33 (CP-33), Habitat Buffers for Upland Birds, exceeded that under commodity production. Using spatial queries in ArcGIS we compared profit surfaces for whole field agricultural production and alternative CP-33 enrollments (30, 60, 90, 120 ft) to spatially illustrate the economic advantages of strategic CP-33 establishment. Whole field profitability increased 69.52% ($2840.32 - $4814.80) with a 120 ft CP-33 buffer, 60.83% ($2840.32 – $4568.21) with a 90 ft CP-33 buffer, 47.22% ($2840.32 – $4181.53) with a 60 ft CP-33 buffer, and 28.54% ($2840.32 - $3651.02) with a 30 ft CP-33 buffer. Our results suggest profitability and conservation objectives can be optimized in working agricultural landscapes by using precision agriculture technology to facilitate strategic conservation program enrollment. Link for presentation   Title Bachman’s Sparrow Populations, Nesting Ecology, and Habitat Use in Oak Savannas at Fort Campbell, Tennessee-Kentucky First author Emily Hockman Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author University of Tennessee Number of authors 4 Second author David Buehler Third author E. Daniel Moss Fourth author James Giocomo Presentation type Poster Abstract Bachman’s Sparrow is a high priority species for conservation attention in the Southeast because of declining populations and loss of pine savanna ecosystems. The northern range of the species, however, extends from Pennsylvania to Illinois, where this species occupies oak savannas. Bachman’s Sparrow populations have decreased an average of 1.6 % from 1966 to 2007, according to the Breeding Bird Survey. Fort Campbell contains remnant patches of oak savanna that support a breeding population of Bachman’s Sparrows. Large tracts of savannas maintained at Fort Campbell by accidental and prescribed fires provide habitat for not only Bachman’s Sparrow, but other high-priority grassland species as well. This poster summarizes our knowledge about Bachman’s Sparrow population size, reproductive success, and specific habitat requirements at Fort Campbell. Our long-term goal is to develop a conservation strategy to sustain and enhance populations of this high-priority species at Fort Campbell. Link for presentation   Title The Status of Swallow-tailed Kites in Arkansas First author Scott J. Chiavacci Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Department of Biological Science, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR 72467 Number of authors 4 Second author Troy J. Bader Third author Amy M. St. Pierre Fourth author James C. Bednarz Presentation type Oral Abstract The northern Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus forficatus) formerly bred in areas of at least 17 states from Florida and the Southeast coastal plain west to central Texas and north to Minnesota. As the result of a drastic reduction in breeding range, the population now breeds in portions of only seven southeastern states. The most recent documented case of nesting Swallow-tailed Kites in Arkansas was in 1890 and the species was assumed extirpated from the state in the late 1940s. Based on an increase in reported sightings, particularly around the White River National Wildlife Refuge, we initiated a study in 2001 to determine the status of the Swallow-tailed Kite in Arkansas. In 2002, we documented the first nesting attempt by Swallow-tailed Kites in the state in over 100 years. Since then we have located four additional nests, all of which failed before fledging any chicks, with two reaching the nestling stage. We quantified nest site characteristics and found that kites selected super-emergent oaks (Quercus spp.) approximately 500 m from the forest edge as nest sites. All nests were located within a relatively small area on the refuge approximately 3.7 km in diameter, indicating relatively strong site fidelity. The cluster of nests in the White River National Wildlife Refuge is approximately 370 km north of the closest known nesting kites in Louisiana, representing a substantial extension in the current known breeding range of the northern Swallow-tailed Kite. Link for presentation Click to download Title “Citizen Science for Swallow-tailed Kites: Integrating Citizen Science & Research” First author Jennifer McCarthey Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author College of Charleston Number of authors 3 Second author Tera Baird Third author Dr. Maria Whitehead Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Citizen Science strives to involve residents in wildlife resource management at the local level while contributing to the regional management of a species. It incorporates public education and outreach with scientific data collection in a cost-effective manner. The Citizen Science for Swallow-tailed Kites program uses sightings reported by citizens to monitor Swallow-tailed kite populations and contribute to research project and planning efforts. This program spans the breeding range of the northern sub species of Swallow-tailed Kite, Elanoides forficatus forficatus. Data collected from this effort is being used in the resource based study, “Macro-arthropod Use and Availability for Swallow-tailed Kites in four human-managed habitats in the coastal plain of South Carolina.” This study assesses macro-arthropod resource availability during the Swallow-tailed Kite breeding and post-breeding season in four managed habitats across four study areas: pasture/hayfields, fallow fields, row crop, and managed impoundments, determines foraging site fidelity among years by analyzing citizen-science database during 2007-2009, and compares and analyzes landscape qualities of reported foraging sites reported in 2007-2009. At the end of this study, the integration of citizen science with field research will provide valuable management recommendations and assist land trusts in preserving high quality foraging habitats adjacent to bottomland hardwood forests used for nesting in South Carolina. Link for presentation   Title Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) response to the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) in Fulton County, Arkansas First author Marcus N. Asher Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Department of Biological Sciences,Arkansas State University, State University, AR 72467 Number of authors 2 Second author James C. Bednarz Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract In an effort to reverse the decline of Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and grassland-associated songbirds, the Northern Bobwhite Conservation Initiative (NBCI) was established with specific population goals. One approach toward accomplishing this goal is enrollment of landowners in the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) to support the implementation of management practices favoring quail such as prescribed burning. To monitor results of this program in Fulton County, Arkansas, we captured and radio-collared 53 quail using call-back trapping and night-lighting techniques. We then monitored brood-rearing adults during 2-hour tracking sessions to document habitat use. We collected vegetation data at brood-rearing sites including: percentage estimates of bare ground, forbs, grasses, overhead cover, and woody vegetation using a 1-m2 frame, as well as vegetation height, and Robel readings to determine density and structure. Also, distance to escape cover was recorded. In addition, we compared insect abundance and species composition accessible to nesting adults and foraging chicks on managed and unmanaged lands. Of the 53 quail (45 males, 8 females), 26 and 27 birds were captured on managed and unmanaged lands, respectively. We recorded a nest hatch success of 58% (7 of 12). We, also, found birds rearing broods on managed lands during 18 (46%) tracking sessions, and on unmanaged lands 21 of 39 (54%) sessions. Preliminary evaluation of data suggest conditions created using prescribed fire and fescue eradication practices showed more retention of brood-rearing birds than other management practices or conditions on unmanaged lands. Link for presentation   Title Designing Sustainable Landscapes: Avian communities, Predicted Landscapes and Decision Support Tools of the future First author Steven G. Williams Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Biodiversity and Spatial Information Center, Department of Biology, NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695 Number of authors 5 Second author Jaime A. Collazo Third author J. Barry Grand Fourth author Alexa J. McKerrow Presentation type Oral Abstract A collaborative effort among researchers at the Center for Biodiversity and Spatial Information Center at North Carolina State University, the USGS Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units of Alabama and North Carolina along with the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture are developing an approach to landscape conservation design in the South Atlantic Migratory Bird Initiative region that is based on predicted changes to land cover and the avian populations they support. Landscape changes over the next 100 years will be predicted considering climate change, urban growth and succession of plant communities using a variety of modeling techniques including SLEUTH, VDDT and TELSA. Fifteen avian habitat guilds will be represented by a select suite of species that are the best indicators of key ecological drivers of a given habitat guild. Those species will have habitat priority maps developed using the Southeastern Regional Gap Analysis data as the basis with other ecological drivers as identified through a series of structured decision workshops conducted throughout the region. Habitat priority maps will be developed for future landscape conditions based on likely conservation and emission scenarios. The result will be a series of data sets that can be used to evaluate conservation actions and their effect on future avian populations. This project is expected to yield protocols that utilize Strategic Habitat Conservation and can then be applied throughout the eastern United States as regional GAP data sets become available. Link for presentation Click to download Title The South Carolina Safe Harbor and Landowner Incentive Programs: promoting habitat maintenance and restoration for the Red-cockaded Woodpecker and other southern pine ecosystem-associated species on private lands. First author M. Paige Grooms Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Clemson University Sandhills Research and Education Center, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Columbia, SC 29224 Number of authors 3 Second author Laurel Moore Barnhill Third author Steven Hewett Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Since its introduction in 1998, the South Carolina Red-cockaded Woodpecker Safe Harbor program, administered by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), has grown to include 114 enrollees and 297 Red-cockaded Woodpecker groups, with properties enrolled throughout the South Carolina Coastal Plain and Sandhills regions. The program’s success stems from flexibility the Endangered Species Act (ESA) offers: in exchange for voluntary habitat maintenance and enhancement, landowners are exempted from ESA restrictions for any Red-cockaded Woodpecker groups that move onto their property in the future as a result of those habitat improvements. Landowner compliance is monitored by the use of an annual report completed by each landowner and annual site inspections by SCDNR biologists. The SCDNR also administers the South Carolina Landowner Incentive Program (LIP), a cost-share program available to landowners enrolled in the Red-cockaded Woodpecker Safe Harbor program. The program provides financial compensation to landowners for implementing management activities that benefit Red-cockaded Woodpeckers and associated species at risk in the longleaf pine ecosystem. Management practices include prescribed burning, mechanical and chemical understory control, and longleaf pine establishment. Since the introduction of LIP in September 2006, 66 landowners have been enrolled, over $300,000 reimbursed, and almost 17,000 acres impacted. This program, in combination with Safe Harbor, promotes continued and proactive management on the part of private landowners for Red-cockaded Woodpeckers and other species associated with southern pine ecosystems in South Carolina. Link for presentation Click to download Title Flood-associated habitat changes affect occupancy by Swainson's Warblers First author Thomas J. Benson Will the first author be presenting? No Affiliation of first author Illinois Natural History Survey, Champaign, IL 61820 Number of authors 2 Second author James C. Bednarz Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Understanding factors that influence changes in habitat occupancy of Neotropical migrant birds is important related to potential management decisions, particularly for species of conservation concern. One such species, the Swainson’s Warbler (Limnothlypis swainsonii), is associated with bottomland hardwood forests in the southeastern U.S. Because these warblers nest in the shrub layer and forage in leaf litter, they may be negatively influenced by flooding. In 2004, we repeated song-broadcast surveys and vegetation sampling at 42 locations that were occupied by Swainson’s warblers in 2000 or 2001 at four study sites in Arkansas. Only nine of 42 previously occupied locations (21%) remained occupied over the 3–4 years since the original surveys. Occupancy changes were associated with decreases in depth and cover of leaf litter and shrub cover, and increases in cover of bare ground and forbs. These habitat and occupancy changes were related to flooding events that occurred between sample periods at three of four study sites. Future conservation efforts for this species should focus on relatively high elevation areas in bottomland hardwood forests that are typically free from the effects of periodic flooding. Link for presentation Click to download Title Habitat Ecology of Two Grassland Birds During the Breeding Season in South Florida First author Adam Butler Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Mississippi Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, 304 Second Street, Brookhaven, MS 39601 Number of authors 4 Second author James Martin Third author William Palmer Fourth author John Carroll Presentation type Oral Abstract Avian species associated with grassland and savanna ecosystems are experiencing some of the steepest population declines of all North American passerines. Within the Southeastern United States, the dry prairie of south Florida constitutes one of the largest remaining native grasslands. Over the last century, this ecosystem has experienced severe declines to both its extent and quality. However, little research exists quantifying the effect of fragmentation and advanced plant succession on members the dry prairie’s breeding bird community. Therefore, during 2005 and 2006 we used fixed-distance point counts to investigate the influence of patch size and habitat characteristics on dry prairie’s avian community. We limited the scope of our study to 2 common, yet regionally declining species: Bachman’s sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) and Eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna). We surveyed birds at 235 points within 30 patches during 2005, and 228 points within 46 patches during 2006. We used an information theoretic approach to examine candidate models that explained abundance of Bachman's sparrows and occurrence of Eastern meadowlarks. Although we observed temporal variation of the most influential model variables, our results suggest that both species exhibited preferences for prairies with low-density herbaceous layers, < 35% saw palmetto (Serona repens), and high proportions of bunch grasses. Eastern meadowlarks exhibited some degree of area sensitivity, while Bachman’s sparrows seemed more influenced by landscape connectivity than patch size. Conclusions from this research are that conditions for some breeding birds can be improved by managing with natural fire-return intervals, and promoting connectivity between large blocks of prairie. Link for presentation   Title Target mist-netting in the Program MARK Era First author James Cox Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Tall Timbers Research Station, 13093 Henry Beadel Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32313 Number of authors 3 Second author Clark Jones Third author Theron Terhune Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Data collected from passive mist netting is not yet yielding survival estimates for species that occur at low densities. Data collected from MAP stations conducted in southeastern states suggested only 36 species were monitored adequately. Target netting can improve capture rates for uncommon species and has been used extensively in recent years. For example, we frequently catch ≥8 adult male Bachman’s Sparrows (Aimophila aestivalis) each morning using target netting techniques, but the largest single-day number we have caught using passive netting techniques is 3. We describe field procedures that can be used to make target netting more amenable to the analytical tools available for analyzing mark-recapture data. For example, target netting can be tailored to fit the assumptions of the Cormack-Jolly-Seber model by (1) generating random points for a study area and (2) visiting random points and attempting to net the first individual detected near the point. Two years of sampling conducted in 2007 and 2008 suggested 5-15 Bachman’s Sparrows could be captured each morning using these procedures with an average capture rate of 0.63 individuals per netting attempt. We netted 50 males in 2007 and 45 males in 2008 with a 0.53 recapture rate in 2008. We also have tested methods based on Pollock’s robust design and will report on these. We believe these approaches offer great promise in improving survival estimates for uncommon species and also may be used efficiently for many territorial songbirds. Link for presentation Click to download Title Red-cockaded Woodpecker Management on Sand Hills State Forest First author Steven R. Hewett Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Sand Hills State Forest, Patrick, SC 29584 Number of authors 2 Second author C. Brian Davis Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Sand Hills State Forest comprises 46,000 acres mostly in Chesterfield County SC, and is part of the Secondary Core recovery population of red-cockaded woodpeckers (Picoides borealis) in the Sandhills region. In 1992, the population of RCW’s on the forest was 36 groups and it has expanded to 64 groups today due to partnership and management efforts. In 1993, the South Carolina Forestry Commission teamed up with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to intensively manage for Red-cockaded Woodpeckers on Sand Hills State Forest. Previous management by the Forestry Commission involved marking cavity trees and some use of prescribed fire and mid-story control within the cluster areas. With the new partnership, RCWs were banded, artificial cavities installed and nests checked for nest and fledging success. In addition to traditional timber harvests, a Pine Straw Enhancement program was initiated in 1998. The goals are to improve woodpecker habitat by removing the mid-story through chemical and manual means and generate much needed revenue to sustain the forest. Contractors bid on areas to rake pine straw and as part of their contract agree to chemically treat and manually remove all hardwood species in the stand. Pine straw raking is one of the most economically viable industries in the county, generating a large portion of the 25% of forest products revenue that is given to the county school district. The combination of management efforts has benefited both the County of Chesterfield and the Red-cockaded Woodpeckers alike. Link for presentation   Title Landscape Ecosystem Classification Correlates of Winter Grassland Sparrow Habitat in Utility Rights of Way First author Paul Champlin Will the first author be presenting? No Affiliation of first author Formerly Clemson Univeristy Department of Forestry and Natural Resources Number of authors 5 Second author J. Drew Lanham, PhD Third author John C. Kilgo Fourth author William Bridges Presentation type Poster Abstract Novel opportunities for surrogate grassland habitat management exist in utility rights-of-way (ROWs) for a variety of early-successional avifauna including overwintering grassland sparrows. ROWs are common features of the landscape and are kept in a long-term early successional state through regular disturbance such as mowing and burning. While grassland bird density and diversity are strongly linked to vegetative composition in habitats managed over the long-term, vegetative composition and structure itself is dependent on a host of abiotic environmental factors such as topography and environmental exposure. Determining how these factors might affect winter sparrow diversity and abundance may be critical in facilitating conservation efforts. We conducted fixed area flush surveys in ROWs to determine whether wintering grassland sparrow diversity and density was a function of habitat area and /or other salient habitat features on the predominantly forested landscape of the Savannah River Site (SRS) in western South Carolina. We detected 199 grassland sparrows, including 47 Henslow’s (Ammodramus henslowii), 44 Grasshopper (A. savannarum) and 108 Bachman’s Sparrows (Aimophila aestivalis ), over the four years of sampling. Sparrow diversity and densities were positively related to three measures of ROW area and landform index (LFI). A positive relationship to site exposure suggests that patch area may be proximate in grassland sparrow density during winter, and that other factors, such as abiotic conditions driving vegetative composition may be more explanatory. Link for presentation   Title EFFECTS OF FOREST MANAGEMENT ON SWAINSON’S WARBLERS First author Carolina Roa Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Arkansas State University Number of authors 3 Second author James C. Bednarz Third author Thomas J. Benson Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Most bottomland hardwood forests in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley are currently even-aged as a consequence of past management practices. The Swainson’s Warbler (Limnothlypis swainsonii) is an uncommon Neotropical migrant that breeds in these forests and is a species of conservation priority throughout the Southeast. Past reports indicated that this species was primarily associated with mature forests; however, recent studies have shown that this species breeds under a variety of management regimes. We collected data on the density of Swainson’s Warblers (SWWAs) and vegetation characteristics from 2005 to 2007 in the White River National Wildlife Refuge (WRNWR) and the Saint Francis National Forest (SFNF), Arkansas. We also gathered information about the history of management of each stand, and used GIS layers from each site to estimate the area and the forest type. The mean density of SWWA was higher in SFNF (0.28 males/ha; 1–5 birds/stand) than in WRNWR (0.02 males/ha; 1–20 birds/stand). We analyzed data from stands used by SWWA (290–775, N = 7 ha and 1–81, N = 43 ha in WRNWR and SFNF, respectively). The management in the WRNWR has been primarily thinning and on average, the stands have not been managed in the past 35 years. In the SFNF the management included clear-cutting, thinning, prescribed burning and controlling invasive species. Some stands supporting SWWAs have not been managed for more than 50 years and others, managed in the past year. Preliminary results suggest that more frequent forest management may support greater densities of SWWAs. Link for presentation Click to download Title Proximate Causes of Population Trends in Migratory Landbirds and Implications for Southeastern Species and Climate Change First author James F. Saracco Will the first author be presenting? No Affiliation of first author The Institute for Bird Populations, P.O. Box 1346, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 Number of authors 2 Second author David F. DeSante Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract We examined the importance of productivity, recruitment, and adult apparent survival in driving BCR-scale spatial variation in 12-yr (1992-2003) MAPS population trends for 28 species of Nearctic-Neotropical migratory landbirds. We assessed MAPS population trends (lambda) and adult survival and recruitment rates using reverse-time and “transient” Cormack-Jolly-Seber mark-recapture models, and indexed productivity by the ratio of young to adult birds in MAPS constant-effort data. We found that productivity had strong effects on recruitment and lambda for only 9 species, while recruitment had strong effects on lambda for 25 species, thereby implicating first-year survival as the driver for lambda for at least 16 species. Adult survival had a strong effect on lambda for 9 species and appeared to act alone for 3, along with first year survival for 4, and along with both first-year survival and productivity for 2 species. Species for which first-year survival was important in driving lambda tended to have stronger negative trends, species for which adult survival was important tended to have weaker negative trends, and species for which productivity was important tended to have stable or positive trends. These results indicate that (1) enhancing survival, especially first-year survival, may be the most important conservation strategy for slowing declines and achieving stable populations of migratory landbirds, (2) enhancing productivity may be necessary to recover populations whose declines have been arrested, and (3) relationships between landbird vital rates and weather and habitat characteristics on the wintering grounds must be determined. We discuss implications for southeastern landbirds and climate change. Link for presentation   Title Age-structure in a declining habitat: do older birds always reflect better habitat First author Kirk W. Stodola Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 Number of authors 2 Second author Robert J. Cooper Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Oral Abstract Theoretical models of habitat selection suggest that individuals of higher quality select the highest quality habitat. Consequently, age structure is often viewed as an indicator of habitat quality where older individuals occupy areas of highest quality. However, for species with high site fidelity this pattern may not hold when habitat quality changes. For many Nearctic-Neotropical migrant species habitat assessment may occur during the first breeding season, as many older individuals are extremely site-faithful. As habitat changes in quality, first-year breeding adults may assess habitat differently than returning adults that are tied to an area due to past breeding experience. Consequently, as habitat quality declines first-year breeding individuals may choose to settle elsewhere, while older individuals are faithful to that habitat. Thus, the age structure of a population in habitat that is degrading may be older than in habitat that is stable or improving. We provide evidence of this from a population of Black-throated Blue Warblers in an area where habitat quality has been affected by the gradual loss of a preferred nest substrate, the Eastern Hemlock, due to the introduced Woolly Adelgid. Link for presentation Click to download Title A closing window for Bachman’s Sparrow in Georgia Piedmont Clear Cuts First author Timothy Keyes Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Georgia DNR Number of authors 2 Second author Nathan Klaus Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Breeding and wintering Bachman’s sparrows were surveyed using point counts and playback in 49 regenerating clear-cuts in the Georgia Piedmont between 2005-2006. Regenerating stands were divided by size and age. “Small” stands were less than 100 acres while “large” stands were greater than 100 acres. Stands 0-2 years post-planting were considered “young”, while stands 3-5 years post planting were considered “old”. Bachman’s Sparrows were located in 10 stands, but were only found in one “small” site (a 96 acre stand) and in only one “old”. The rest were all on sites larger than 100 acres and younger than 3 years old. Based on the increased efficiency and intensity of pine production the temporal window of suitable habitat for Bachman’s Sparrow (and other early successional species) is closing. The days of regenerating stands of loblolly pine maintaining Bachman’s Sparrow to 7 years post-planting appear to be over in the Georgia Piedmont, and 3-year-old stands often had already achieved canopy closure. Stands with breeding season Bachman’s Sparrows were revisited in winter to determine if territories were defended year round, as they were in well-maintained pine savanna habitat. Only one Bachman’s sparrow was located during the winter surveys, suggesting that they are at least less territorial on regenerating pine stands than in pine savanna, if they remain there at all in winter. Through follow up banding studies we hope to address the questions of site fidelity in young stands. Link for presentation   Title Dabbling duck and shorebird use of managed impoundments and tidal marshes in coastal South Carolina First author Gretchen E. Nareff Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 Number of authors 4 Second author Sara H. Schweitzer Third author Ernie P. Wiggers Fourth author William E. Mills Presentation type Poster Abstract Coastal wetland impoundments in South Carolina are managed primarily for wintering waterfowl (Anseriformes). Currently, we do not understand the role managed impoundments play in coastal ecosystems, especially relative to habitat needs of migratory shorebirds (Charadriiformes). Many stopover sites significantly important for feeding and resting of migratory shorebirds have declined in quality and quantity. To examine the role of managed and tidal marshes in this ecosystem, we 1) compared abundance of dabbling ducks and shorebirds in impoundments and tidal marshes during winter and migration; 2) classified behaviors of teal and yellowlegs in impoundments and tidal marshes; and 3) determined food habits of teal and yellowlegs in managed impoundments. Study sites included two impoundments and two tidal marshes within both Nemours Wildlife Foundation and ACE Basin NWR, South Carolina. We used scan sampling and time-activity budget data to estimate abundance of birds and percentage of time in different behaviors. We used a zero-inflated Poisson regression model to detect differences in abundance between habitats, based on season, tide, and interactions among variables. Shorebirds were always more abundant in tidal marshes than impoundments. However, they were more abundant in impoundments during migration than during winter, and in 2008 than 2007, reflecting improved shorebird management. Dabblers were more abundant in impoundments than tidal marshes, regardless of season or tide. Birds spent most of their time foraging (41-87%) in both habitats. We recommend supplementing current impoundment management (i.e., prescribed burns, late fall flooding) with slow, springtime drawdowns, and leaving sheet-water on impoundments through May for shorebirds. Link for presentation   Title Bird Strikes at Commercial Buildings in Atlanta First author Timothy Keyes Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Georgia DNR Number of authors 2 Second author Lee Sexton Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract During the fall of 2005, 53 commercial buildings in Atlanta Georgia were selected and monitored for bird strikes over 73 mornings from August 2nd to October 13th. Four hundred and eighty strikes of 59 species were found. The majority were migrants particularly warblers (Parulinae). Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), Tennessee warblers (Vermivora peregrina) and Ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapillus) made up 40% of the strikes. While all selected buildings had some bird mortality, there were significant positive relationships between strikes and percent glass on the building; presence of interior facing corners; percentage night-lighting at the building, and estimates of insect abundance at the building. Over 50% of the strikes were found near reflective glass windows. Since strikes increased with increasing percentage of night-lighting at a given building a “Citywide lights-out” program that encourages buildings managers to decrease night lighting in their buildings during peak migration periods is suggested. Link for presentation   Title Ivory-billed Woodpecker Search Efforts in South Carolina 2006-2008 First author Laurel Barnhill Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Number of authors 6 Second author Matthew Moskwik Third author   Fourth author   Presentation type Poster Abstract Search efforts to find an Ivory-billed Woodpecker in South Carolina occurred in winter and early spring of 2006, 2007, and 2008. Activities were coordinated by a partnership of 16 organizations and agencies, known as the South Carolina Ivory-billed Woodpecker Working Group. Search areas were targeted based on historical evidence, recent encounters, forest metrics, and available habitat. Significant attention was given to Congaree National Park in the Congaree River Basin, but searches also occurred in the Santee (Francis Marion National Forest), Lower Pee Dee, and Little Pee Dee River Basins (Marsh Furniture WMA, Woodbury WMA, Little Pee Dee Heritage Preserve, and Cook Farm Tract). Methods and techniques evolved from active transect searches to a combination of active searches, stationary watches, and double knock playback sessions using a 400-meter grid system. Over the last three years, a total of 10,505 hours were spent by three 4-person full-time field crews and 113 volunteers searching for sight and/or sound and physical evidence of woodpeckers. In addition, RECONYX™ cameras captured over 3.6 million images and ARUs recorded 3530 hours of acoustic data. Habitat and effort data were collected in Congaree National Park for 500m2 patches and recorded to populate a rangewide occupancy model. After three years of searching, no definitive evidence of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker’s existence in South Carolina was found. However, multiple inconclusive kent-like calls, double knocks, and sightings were reported by the official search effort, as well as by independent searchers in each survey year. Link for presentation   Title Factors influencing vegetation and avian species response to oak savanna restoration in the mid-South First author Barrioz, S. A. Will the first author be presenting? Yes Affiliation of first author Center for Native Grassland Management and Department of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN Number of authors 5 Second author P. D. Keyser Third author D. A. Buehler Fourth author C. A. Harper Presentation type Oral Abstract Oak savannas are among the most imperiled ecosystems in the United States as a result of land-use conversion, incompatible silviculture, and disrupted fire regimes. Consequently, associated vegetation and avian communities are also in decline. Restoration of savanna communities may be an important strategy for conserving early successional bird species. We evaluated savanna restoration strategies through a meta-analysis of nine case studies in Tennessee and Kentucky. Specifically, we looked at factors influencing vegetation and avian response following mechanical overstory thinning and fire. We measured grass, forb, legume, woody understory, midstory, and overstory cover, leaf litter, slope, and aspect. We also conducted point counts to assess breeding bird use of the sites. Cover was analyzed using hierarchical linear regression. Point count data were analyzed using correlations and Program DISTANCE. Total grass cover was influenced by basal area (P = 0.003). Total forb cover was influenced by total basal area (P= 0.003) and slope (P= 0.045). Our case studies differed (P < 0.05) for key measures, presumably due to treatment effects, but responses to disturbance factors and micro-site did not, indicating these influences may be consistent across the region. Shrub/scrub and forest bird species occurrence were highly correlated (P < 0.01) with overstory canopy cover, total grass coverage, and total leaf litter coverage, but in opposite directions. No grassland obligate bird species were observed on any of our sites. Based on our results, canopy reduction and growing-season burns may both be critical to restoration of savannas in the region. Link for presentation