Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Waterfowl management is a major goal at the Delta National Wildlife Refuge, yet there is little information on mottled duck (Anas fulvigula) nesting on the Mississippi River Delta (MRD) in Louisiana to guide management decisions. In 1998 and 1999, we determined nest success and its relationship to sites and habitat types. Average Mayfield nest success for all locations and years was 20.0%. Nest success differed among sites in 1998 and among habitat types in 1999. Greatest nest success (56.7%) was on Mississippi River levee sites and lowest nest success (0.3%) was on canal banks. Most nest failure was attributed to female abandonment (33.1%) and nest depredation (27.7%). Habitats selected for nesting sites were not used in proportion to their availability, with grassland habitats being used more than expected and marsh and forested habitats being used less than expected. No nests were located on splays.

During winters 1990-1992, we manipulated food availability 5%-20% less than that of ad libitum feeding for captive groups of wild-strain North American wood ducks (Aix sponsa) to test effects of increasing levels of food restriction on prebasic molt of females. Birds fed ad libitum and 5%-15% restricted diets exhibited a protracted molt (>90 days) of low intensity. Most females fed a 20%-restricted diet did not initiate molt until resumption of ad libitum food availability. We hypothesize that a 20% restriction exceeds a threshold in food availability and possibly body condition needed by captive female wood ducks to meet nutritional demands of maintenance and prebasic molt. A lower threshold may exist for free-living wood ducks, implying the importance of adequate food availability and quality during winter to minimize negative effects on within- and cross-seasonal life-cycle functions.

Managers have assumed that migratory geese regularly interchange among wintering refuges, providing a potential to manage them as a complex. The primary purpose of our study was to determine population affiliation and magnitude of goose movements among 4 national wildlife refuges (NWR) in Tennessee and northern Alabama, thereby assessing the feasibility of this approach. Interchange and population affiliation were examined using neck collar observations from 1977-1998. Population affiliation varied among refuges, with Southern James Bay geese being most common at Wheeler NWR, and Mississippi Valley geese being most common at Reelfoot NWR. Only 5.1% of 11,039 different blue-and orange-collared geese observed at the 4 refuges were observed at more than 1 refuge during the entire study period.

Accurate nocturnal bird abundance and distribution data are necessary for managing nocturnal avian communities. We compared vocalization playback and silent methods for surveying 3 nocturnal avian species in Mississippi in 1997 and 1998. Playback elicited more responses from eastern screech-owls (Otus asio) than the silent method. Playback was more effective than the silent method at detecting habitat associations of eastern screech-owls, which were strongly associated with pine regeneration stands than pine sawtimber stands and pine-hardwood stands. Playback of broadcast vocalizations more effectively detects abundance of some nocturnal bird species than silent methods. Increased detectability and accuracy are essential for monitoring and managing nocturnal avian communities and their habitat associations.

Identifying habitat for species with special ecological requirements can be a challenging task when procedures are based on remotely sensed data. I used georeferenced locations of red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) cavity trees to evaluate the effectiveness of Landsat Thematic Mapper (tm) data and a digital elevation model in identifying oldgrowth pine forests that provide nesting habitat for this species. Remotely sensed data associated with active cavity trees (N=142) and polygons surrounding active cavity clusters (N=179) were compared to locations with unsuitable habitat (N=1000). Elevation was the best predictor of woodpecker locations, but some TM bands improved classifications slightly. The best classification (overall accuracy=74%, kappa=0.45) was based on an elevation mask and transformed TM data associated with the red, blue, and green TM bands.

Insects and herbaceous vegetation important to young eastern wild turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo sylvestris) may be enhanced in forested areas by managing clearings. Natural resource agencies in Virginia and other eastern states have committed significant resources to create and maintain forest clearings to provide habitat for wild turkey broods in predominantly forested areas. However, techniques used to manage clearings often lack definitive ecological justifications. We compared effectiveness of 4 management regimes on forest clearings typical of those used by wildlife managers in the eastern United States to produce insects and vegetation beneficial to turkey broods. Ranging from low to high intensity in development and maintenance, treatments were 1) mowing; 2) disking and liming; 3) planting ladino clover (Trifolium repens latum), mowing, and liming; and 4) planting a perennial grass-forb mixture, mowing and liming.

Use of crossbow equipment to hunt white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has increased in recent years. Concurrently, beliefs about efficiency of crossbows relative to upright bows has spawned concerns among many hunters that use of crossbows during standard archery seasons will lead to overharvest and herd degradation. To examine relative efficiency of crossbows as weapons for harvesting deer, we collected 5 years (1996-2000) of deer harvest data from special hunts in southeast Oklahoma where hunters were restricted to either crossbows or traditional (recurves or longbows) archery equipment. We found that success of crossbow hunters (22.8%) was greater than success of hunters using traditional archery equipment (6.9%). We found no difference in quality of deer harvested between crossbow and traditional archers as measured by body mass, antler characteristics, and age of male deer.

We evaluated selected characteristics of forest industry hunt-lease programs for the 1999 calendar year in the southern United States. Sixty questionnaires were mailed to wildlife biologists and hunt-lease administrators of various forest industries within these states. Thirty-four completed questionnaires were returned, yielding an overall response rate of 56.7%. Respondents owned 6,006,050 ha; they leased 4,600,611 ha (76.6%) to the private sector and 424,784 ha (7.1%) to the public sector. The average annual lease fee for the private sector was $9.69 per hectare, and the average annual lease fee for the public sector was $3.39 per hectare. Results from this survey were compared to those of a similar survey from 1994 to determine changes and trends in industry hunt-lease programs.

Future successes in wildlife conservation will hinge on our ability to forge partnerships, and the best opportunities for new partnerships will come from private, nonprofit foundations. The number of new foundations is growing at a remarkable rate, and the funding they provide to projects dealing with the environment and wildlife exceeds $1.7 billon annually. Additionally, these foundations are rich in scientific and educational expertise, land for study areas, laboratories, and other resources essential for scientific investigations and educational programs. Private foundations have produced many of our best scholars and professional leaders. The Nemours Wildlife Foundation, located in the coastal plains of South Carolina, was established by Eugene duPont, III, and family in 1995 and is one of these new partners in wildlife conservation.

The Aquatic Investigation and Recovery team of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is a 12-member team that is responsible for the recoveries of as well as provides investigative assistance for many water related fatalities in the state of South Carolina. Three specific incidents are discussed here. The first being the 1994 Susan Smith case, when a mother murdered her two children by allowing her vehicle to roll into Lake John D. Long in Union County, S.C. The second occurred in 1996, also in Lake John D. Long, when seven people—four of which were children under the age of 7—drowned when their vehicle rolled into the lake. The third incident occurred in 1999 and involved a 16-year-old female from Pennsylvania who slipped into a class IV rapid on the Chatooga river in Oconee County, S.C. Due to adverse water conditions, her body was not recovered for almost two months. Recovering bodies can take a toll on those who provide this service.

In 1998, over 70% of Florida voters elected to revise the state's Constitution, which, among other things, combined Florida's Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission and Marine Fisheries Commission. In July 1999, the merger went into effect creating the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; the largest conservation agency in the nation. This agency is responsible for all wild animal life, fresh water and marine life, and boating safety enforcement in the state of Florida. The largest division in the new agency is the Division of Law Enforcement, which is made up of law enforcement officers of the former Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission and the Department of Environmental Protection's Marine Patrol (more than 700 sworn and nearly 200 non-sworn employees). Facilitating the merger of the 2 separate law enforcement entities created many challenges.

Geographic information systems (GIS) have been used in wildlife and fisheries management and research for many years. These systems are not being used, however, to the fullest potential in conservation law enforcement. At present, there are only 5 conservation law enforcement agencies in the United States using GIS. In Mississippi a GIS is being developed for use in conservation law enforcement. The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, in conjunction with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries at Mississippi State University, is involved in the development of this GIS. This paper will address the good (advantages), the bad (disadvantages), and the ugly (serious problems) in the development of this GIS. The information provided in this paper is to be used as a guide for conservation law enforcement agencies that are interested in establishing a GIS for use in their state.

Management of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), smallmouth bass (M. dolomieu), and walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) fisheries in Meredith Reservoir has a long history of challenges addressed by fisheries managers including dramatic water level changes and habitat loss, changes in sampling gear and sampling protocols, changing angler concerns, and limited information. Management philosophy changed from a period of liberal harvest regulations designed to promote maximum harvest to one of more restrictive regulations designed to optimize both fish populations and angler success. As data and analytical tools improved and new information was obtained, regulations gradually became more stringent resulting in improvements in density and size structure of the fish populations and increased opportunities for anglers.

After efforts to eradicate hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) with herbicide applications proved to be unsuccessful in Caney Creek Reservoir, triploid grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) were introduced in an effort to control the expansion of the exotic, while leaving total aquatic plant coverage at a beneficial level of 15%—30%. After 2 years, the aquatic vegetation population that had been dominated by submerged species was composed primarily of emerged species. Aquatic vegetation coverage was reduced to < 15% for the remainder of the study. Releative abundance of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and number of angler efforts were directly proportional with the reduction in aquatic vegetation coverage. Angler success was slightly increased. Water quality parameters and nutrient levels were not appreciably changed.

Due to a history of cyclic adult largemouth bass population trends, a 406-mm minimum length limit was imposed on largemouth bass on Lake Eufaula in July 1992. Two main objectives for the harvest restriction were to increase the abundance of adult largemouth bass in the fishery and to maintain an abundant bass population so that the cyclic nature of this fishery would not be as severe. We examined the effects of the harvest restriction by comparing several population variables from sampling data collected 6 years before the length limit (1987-1992) and 6 years after the length limit (1994-1999). A large database was available due to consistent standardized sampling by Alabama and Georgia fisheries personnel. Spring proportional stock density estimates did not change significantly, with an average of 63 before and 65 after the length limit.

We compared post-release mortality of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) caught with treble hook lures, soft plastic worms, and live common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Also, we evaluated relations between mortality, bait type, anatomical hooking location, bleeding occurrence, and fish total length (TL). Thirty fish were caught with each bait type during each of 2 angling events conducted at Lake Umphrey, Texas, during August 1995, tagged and held for 72 hours in a cage located in the lake. Mortality ranged from 13% to 33% across bait types and angling events and was not related to bait type for fish caught during either angling event. However, hooking location was related to mortality and bait type. Throat-hooked fish experienced greater mortality (48%) than fish hooked in the gill (17%) and mouth (20%). Fish caught with plastic worms were more likely to be hooked in the throat than fish caught with the other bait types.

The availability of quality nursery habitats can be an important factor in the recuitment dynamics of littoral fish species. Eight artificial habitats composed of crushed rock substrate were established in littoral areas of an embayment of B. E. Jordan Lake, North Carolina, that historically exhibited low abundances of juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Response of juvenile largemouth bass to habitats was assessed by night shoreline electrofishing at treatment sites and associated controls on 4 occasions during the growing season in each of 3 years. Significantly more age-0 largemouth bass were collected on the artificial substrates than at control sites during 3 of 4 sampling periods. Densities of age-0 largemouth bass in shoreline areas where habitat was added increased over the course of the study relative to those recorded at long-term monitoring sites.

Minimum size limits of 279, 305, and 330 mm total lengths (TL) were evaluated using Beverton-Holt yield modeling for the largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) population in Lucchetti Reservoir, Puerto Rico. Growth, estimated from micro-tagged fish, was faster until maturity compared to the populations in the contiguous United States. The von Bertalanffy growth coefficient (k) was 1.44 with L∞ estimated at 404.4 mm TL. Survival rates for adult largemouth bass (>250 mmTL), calculated from mark-recapture studies, were estimated to be 40% for 1998 and 30% for 1999. Simulations revealed that a 305-mm length limit results in higher yield when instantaneous natural mortality exceeds 0.4. Higher harvest rates would be achieved with a 279-mm length limit, whereas a 330-mm length limit would result in greater mean-fish-size at any of the instantaneous natural mortality rates addressed (0.3, 0.4, and 0.5).

The purpose of this study was to assess the abundance, size composition, and food habits of the flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) poopulation in Sutton Lake near Wilmington, North Carolina, and to determine if the flathead catfish population could be diminished by repeated electrofishing over several months. Flathead catfish were collected monthly from June through October 1999 and removed using 2 boat-mounted electrofishing units. A total of 255 flathead catfish weighing 1,550 kg were collected. Individuals >600 mm total length dominated the catch. Fish accounted for 92% of the food items found in the stomachs of flathead catfish collected. During the 5-month sampling period, the number of fish collected each month never declined and no significant changes in size distribution was observed.

Current standardized sampling procedures in Oklahoma call for the use of gill nets to collect relative abundance and size structure data on channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). While gill nets are effective at catching channel catfish, their usefulness as a sampling tool is limited because of the variability of the resulting data. Furthermore, gill nets represent a lethal means of sampling channel catfish which can adversely affect channel catfish populations. Hoop nets have been found to be an effective alternative method for catching channel catfish, but little is known concerning seasonal effects on catch efficiency of hoop nets, especially in reservoirs. We sampled 2 Oklahoma reservoirs monthly from April through October 1999 using baited hoop nets.

A contingency of local anglers and guides from Weiss Lake, Alabama, has voiced concern that the natural reproduction of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) has negatively impacted the popular crappie (Pomoxis spp.) fishery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of naturally reproducing striped bass on the crappie population in Weiss Lake. Specifically, we examined striped bass food habits and compared crappie population characteristics before (1990-1992) and after (1993-1999) the establishment of the naturally reproducing bass population. Shad (Dorosoma spp.) accounted for 93% of the prey items consumed by striped bass whereas crappie accounted for 0.2%. Crappie growth, abundance, and size structure were variable among years, but were generally similar betwenn treatment periods. Conversely, crappie relative weight was less variable among years, and for stock- and preferred-length crappie, was higher during the post-natural reproduction period.

We estimated the accuracy of field identification of white bass (Morone chrysops) and palmetto bass (M. chrysops X M. saxatilis) by Texas fisheries workers and evaluated the reliability of meristic and morphometric characteristics commonly used to differentiate between these 2 fishes. Electrophoretic and isoelectric focusing analyses of diagnostic proteins were used to verify the fisheries workers' identification of fish (1,087) sampled from 16 reservoirs thoughout Texas. Overall, accuracy of field identification was high and fisheries workers correctly identified all sampled white bass; however, 5% of hybrid striped bass were incorrectly identified as white bass, and 12% of these fish were found to be Fx hybrids. The majority of white bass (78%) exhibited 1 basihyal tooth patch while most hybrid striped bass (89%) had 2 patches.

We used mark-recapture methods, diet analysis, and bioenergetics modeling to assess the threat adult striped bass posed to trout stocked in the upper Chattahoochee River, Georgia. An estimated 311 (95% CI = 159-1,166) striped bass inhabited the trout waters during the summer of 1998. Their diet was dominated (numerically) by crayfish (60%) and trout (15%). Striped bass in the Chattahoochee River preyed on stocked trout and are capable of consuming 7-28% of the trout stocked annually. Further, estimates of predatory demand suggest that the current and possibly growing striped bass population pose a threat to the stocked-trout fishery.

Survival and the stress response of striped bass Morone saxatilis during transport and for a 1-month recovery period after transport were evaluated in 2 studies. In the first study, fish from Carbon Hill National Fish Hatchery (CHNFH), a hard water hatchery (total hardness, 100 mg/liter as calcium carbonate), were transported and recovered for 1 month at the Southeastern Fish Cultural Laboratory (SFCL), a hard water facility (total hardness, 108 mg/liter as calicum carbonate). In the second study, fish from Warm Springs National Fish Hatchery (WSNFH), a soft water hatchery (total hardness, 26 mg/liter as calicum carbonate), were transported and recovered for 1 month at the Southeastern Fish Cultural Laboratory (SFCL), a hard water facility (total hardness, 108 mg/liter as calicum carbonate).

We validated otolith daily rings of Cichlasoma managuense using immersion in alizarin complexone to provide a known-age reference mark. Cichlids were stocked at 38 fish/cage into 3 121-liter cages with 5-mm mesh size within an experimental pond in Puerto Rico. The smallest 78% immediately escaped the cages and were at large in the ponds. Initial total length of cage cichlids averaged 26.5 mm compared to 20.4 mm for cichlids at large in the pond, although pond cichlids quickly overcame this deficit and realized growth rates 2 times faster than confined cichlids (1.42 mm/day vs. 0.69 mm/day). By the final sample at day 60, pond cichlids were 47% longer and 234% heavier than caged cichlids, with significantly higher values of condition. There were no differences in ring formation between the 2 groups, and rings were found to be accurate estimators of daily age.

Walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) (TL>381 mm) were collected from February through April 1994 from 4 distinct regions and in March 1997 from 2 distinct regions of Norris Reservoir, Tennessee, and inserted with Hallprint T-bar anchor tags to determine angler exploitation, location of re-capture, and the effectiveness of a reduction in the daily creel limit. Fish were collected with both horizontal gill nets and electrofishing techniques, but only walleye captured by electrofishing gear were used in angler exploitation analysis. A $5 reward was offered to promote tag return. Annual angler adjusted exploitation was 30% (±9) in 1994 and 14% (± 11) in 1997 for the entire reservoir population. Annual angler adjusted exploitation was 42% (±11) in 1994 and 14% (± 11) in 1997 for walleye tagged in 2 riverine spawning areas. Annual angler adjusted exploitation was 11% (±19) in 1994 for walleye tagged in 2 lake spawning areas. No walleye were tagged in lake spawning areas in 1997.

A 1,532-m reach of Laurel Fork, a second-order tributary of the Doe River, Tennessee, was divided into 37 study sections which were sampled every 3 months by electrofishing. Brown trout (Salmo trutta) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) were weighed, measured, given a unique mark, and returned to the section from which they were caught. Population estimates were made with the Jolly Seber technique. Movement, density, instantaneous growth rate, biomass, and production were calculated. A large portion of recaptured brown trout (87%) and brook trout (63%) had trimonthly movements <75 m. Small sample sizes precluded calculating growth and production for brook trout. Mean instantaneous growth rates for brown trout were highest in August-October (0.45 and 0.77) followed by February-April (0.41), May-July (0.18), and November-January (0.13).

Health, feeding, and relative weight of brown (Salmo trutta) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) were assessed seasonally at 2 sites on the Norfork tailwater, Arkansas, to evaluate effects of hypoxic water discharges from Norfork Dam. The upper site was immediately below Norfork Dam and subject to low (<6 ppm) dissolved oxygen (DO) in water releases during summer and fall. Dissolved oxygen recovers to ≥6 ppm before reaching the downstream control site. During fall, the health of brook and brown trout was significantly lower at the upstream, low DO, site than at the downstream, normal DO, site, and at both sites during the spring, normal DO period. Feeding rates of brook trout were also found to be reduced during the low DO period at the upper site. Relative weight was significantly higher for brown trout during the normal DO period in spring probably due to food availability during winter.

Shadow bass (Ambloplites ariommus) stocks were characterized in the Yockanookany and upper Pearl Rivers (1994-1996) to determine if this relatively uncommon fish could be used to evaluate streams for inclusion in the Mississippi Natural and Scenic Waterways System. Habitat influences (e.g., negative effects of channelization) on shadow bass were best reflected in stock characteristics that need considerable data and laboratory work (i.e., age and growth studies, condition factor analysis). Such studies focusing on shadow bass are incompatible with programs requiring rapid assessments of stream characteristics. Therefore, and unless the legislative initiative recommends slow, thorough processes for evaluating streams for the Mississippi Natural and Scenic Waterways System, shadow bass should not be selected as an indicator species, even though shadow bass can reflect the general well-being and relative status of the stream as a naturally functioning system.

The utility of bioenergetics models for answering fisheries and ecological questions has often been hampered by the availability of data or resources for deriving species-specific models. Among the principal components of bioenergetics models are metabolism equations that historically have been derived from series of long experiments in which fish of different sizes are acclimated and tested at each temperature for extended periods. Acclimation may take several weeks to months and actual observation on metabolism (oxygen consumption) may take several days for each group of fish with several groups often needed to provide sufficient sample size. Here, I present a rapid method for determining metabolic rates by forcing the fish through a series of rapidly declining temperatures over a 1- to 2-day period.

Mail questionnaires and telephone interviews were used to determine the importance of small impoundments and management strategies for small impoundments in the southeastern United States. Responses showed that small impoundments were highly valued by managing agencies in most states. Small impoundments open to the public were typically managed by state fish and wildlife agencies, whereas several agencies participated in the management of private small impoundments. In some states, the Cooperative Extension Service and the Natural Resource Conservation Service were more involved than fish and wildlife agencies in the management of small private impoundments. General management practices were found to be similar among the southeastern states, although specific recommendations varied geographically.

Growth, survival, and catchability of non-native coppernose bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus purpurescens) were compared to that of common bluegill (L. macrochirus) from East (Neches River system) and West (Rio Grande system) Texas populations. The 3 types of bluegills were stocked together (each identifiable by coded-wire tags) into 4 0.25- ha hatchery ponds. Bluegill types were evaluated with and without an established fish community present at age 1 and 2. Coppernose bluegill were larger (i.e., length and weight) than East or West Texas bluegills, regardles of fish community presence. Coppernose bluegill y-o-y survival was higher than East or West Texas bluegills in the presence of a fish community. Survival did not differ among bluegill types regardless of fish community presence in age 2. Catchability was similar among bluegill types, except for lower catchability of age-2 coppernose bluegill without a fish community present.

Reports of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) from the lower Trinity River and Trinity-Galveston Bay of southeastern Texas prompted concerns that this introduced fish may be successfully spawning and recruiting in local waters. To examine these possibilities, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) personnel conducted icthyoplankton sampling from April through July 1992 and 1993 and electron shed during July and August 1993 in the lower Trinity River. Additionally, fish-kill records from the Trinity-Galveston Bay area were examined. Icthyoplanton samples taken in 1992 and 1993 contained 708 grass carp eggs, including many that were viable and devloping at the time of collection. In 1993, samples also contained 1,500 recently-hatched grass carp larvae. Additionally, 54 juvenile grass carp between 104 and 175 mm total length (TL) were recorded from a section of Bray's Bayou off the Houston Ship Channel in September 1993.

The relationships between 2 environmental factors (river discharge, salinity) and blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) abundance, as measured by juvenile recruitment and commercial landings, were evaluated. Correlation coefficients were calculated between a blue crab recruitment index (Jan-Feb catch-per-unit effort of individuals <40 mm carapace width) or commercial harvest and lagged or concurrent salinity and river discharge. The recruitment index was correlated with monthly means of lagged late summer/early fall Mississippi River discharge (positively) and salinity (negatively) whereas commercial harvest were significantly correlated with unlagged Mississippi River discharge (positively) and salinity (negatively). The effects of Mississippi River discharge and salinity on blue crab recruitment and abundance were probably manifested indirectly through biotic mechanisms such as predation.

Comparisons were made on the catch rate, sizes of blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus), and bycatch taken in Mississippi Sound waters with crab traps equipped with and without a diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) excluder device from April through August 1997. The excluder device consisted of welding rods shaped into a 5 X 10 cm rectangle and fitted into the funnel entrances of a common Gulf Coast crab trap. All blue crabs taken were counted, carapace width measured (mm), and sexed. Bycatch was recorded for each sample. A total of 740 blue crabs were captured, 370 in control traps and 370 in excluder traps. No significant difference in mean size (2-tailed t-test) and catch rate (paired t-test) by trap type was observed. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov 2-sample test indicated a significant difference in the size distribution of blue crabs between the 2 trap types. This statistical difference is attributed to the small sample size of blue crabs collected.

Prescribed winter burning is a common practice in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) to manage for red-cockaded woodpeckers (Picoides borealis). The effect of these burns on non-target animals is not well studied. Bachman's sparrows (Aimophila aestivalis) were captured in predominantly longleaf pine stands to be burned and not to be burned at Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge (CSNWR) and the Savannah River Site (SRS), South Carolina. Sparrows were marked with radio-transmitters and monitored daily. Before burning, daily movements did not differ among sites within or among study areas. Additionally, daily movements did not differ by sex or time within the breeding season. After prescribed burning, daily movements were longer for sparrows in burned stands than in unburned stands. All marked sparrows dispersed 1-3 days after a stand was burned and never returned. We found no evidence that dispersing sparrows successfully breed elsewhere.

The effects of 2 years post-treatment of group selection and 2-aged timber harvests on woodland salamanders and mammals were assessed on stands in high elevation, southern Appalachian northern red oak (Quercus rubra)-flame azalea (Rhododendron calendulaceum) communities, in the Nantahala National Forest. We collected 4 salamander species and 10 small mammal species. We detected no difference in woodland salamander relative abundance between timber harvests and uncut (control) stands. Similarly, relative abundance of all small mammal species, except masked shrews (Sorex cinereus), was unaffected by timber harvest. Masked shrew relative abundance was greater post-harvest in 2-aged harvest stands than in group selection harvest stands or uncut stands. For masked shrews, these high elevation, 2-aged harvests may have provided an optimal mix of residual overstory shading, dense shrub-layer shading from new regeneration, and abundant downed coarse woody debris.

This study examined species composition and relative abundance of birds in the Post Oak Region of Texas during winter and spring 1993. A grazed and an ungrazed site were established in each of 4 habitat types: forests, woodlands, upland pastures, and wet meadows. Habitat characteristics of the study sites were evaluated using plot and point methods. Birds were surveyed using time-area circular plot methods with 4 plots per study site. Highest numbers of bird species and individuals were recorded in the woodlands during winter and wet meadows during spring. As a result of flocking birds, more individuals were recorded in grazed woodlands, pastures, and meadows than on the ungrazed sites during winter. Otherwise, ungrazed study sites generally had more species and individuals than did the grazed sites of similar habitats. Differences between grazed and ungrazed sites were probably the result of mechanical vegetation manipulation rather than cattle grazing.

Quail are declining throughout much of their range in the southeastern United States. The reason for this decline is unknown. However, the decline of fur prices during the late 1980s fueled a hypothesis that furbearer harvest has decreased, which in turn led to an increase in furbearer abundance, and a subsequent decrease in quail numbers. To evaluate this hypothesis, we attempted to correlate raccoon (Procycon lotor) fur prices, furbearer and raccoon harvest, and furbearer and raccoon abundance with abundance of northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and scaled quail (Callipepla squamata) for 1980-1999 in 3 ecological regions of Texas. Data supported the hypothesis that declining fur prices were associated with decreasing furbearer harvest. However, there was no increase in furbearer abundance and no correlation between raccoon fur prices, furbearer harvest, or furbearer density with quail abundance.

We collected reproductive tracts from female white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) along with mast indices, deer condition data, and population parameters for a 20-year period in northeastern Georgia. The objectives were to determine what factors influenced reproduction and if ovulation incidence or mast abundance could be used to predict recruitment rate the following year. Percentage of does bred before 1 December and adult doe ovulation incidence were both associated with mast abundance. Higher ovulation incidence of adult does coincided with early breeding. Recruitment rate was not correlated with mast supply, ovulation incidence, or late breeding of any doe age classes from the previous year. The only real value of ovarian analyses was the identification of late breeding in years of acorn scarcity, which also coincided with poorer condition and reproductive effort.

In the 1970s, the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) invaded Cumberland Island, Georgia, which includes a federally designated wilderness area where native flora and fauna are protected by the National Park Service. Because of concerns about the potential ecological effects of this exotic mammal on the island's protected ecosystems, we collected 171 armadillos to determine their diets by stomach content analysis. We measured relative amounts of each food on a seasonal basis for a sub-sample of armadillos from oak-palmetto (N=44) versus oak-pine (N=43) habitats. Food habits of these armadillos were similar to those reported for armadillos from other temperate environments. They primarily ate invertebrates, but 60 (35%) and 62 (36%) armadillos also ate fruits and vertebrates, respectively, during certain seasons. When combined across seasons and habitats, 8 orders of invertebrates represented 85% of the dry weight of foods consumed.

We studied nesting habitat selection, nest density, and nest success of mottled ducks (Anas fulvigula) on islands in the Atchafalaya River Delta, Louisiana, 1995-1996. Nesting mottled ducks preferred shrub-moderate habitats and avoided shrub-sparse and marsh habitats. Other habitats were neither preferred nor avoided. Nest densities using non-random plot sampling in 1995 and line-transect sampling in 1996 averaged 3.9 nests/ha and 1.3 nest/ha, respectively. Mayfield nest success estimates on individual islands ranged from 6.0% to 67.1%. The Atchafalaya River Delta is potentially one of the most important areas for mottled ducks nesting along the Gulf Coast. In order to sustain high mottled duck use of islands, managers should consider implementing vegetation management practices that are aimed at maintaining shrub-moderate habitats.

We radiotracked 6 eastern red (Lasiurus borealis), 6 Seminole (Lasiurus seminolus), and 24 evening bats (Nycticeius humeralis) to 55, 65, and 61 day-roosts, respectively, during summers 1996 and 1997 in the Upper Coastal Plain of South Carolina. For each species, we tested for differences between used roost trees and randomly located trees. We also tested for differences between habitat characteristics surrounding roost trees and randomly located trees. Eastern red and Seminole bats generally roosted in canopies of hardwood and pine (Pinus), respectively, clinging to foliage and small branches. Evening bats roosted in cavities or under exfoliating bark in pines and dead snags. Bats selected roost trees with larger dbh and greater height than randomly located trees.

Proportions of American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) nests sighted during aerial survey in Florida were estimated based upon multiple surveys by different observers. We compared sighting proportions across habitats, nesting seasons, and observer experience levels. The mean sighting proportion across all habitats and years was 0.736 (SE=0.024). Survey counts corrected by the mean sighting proportion reliably predicted total nest counts (7?2=0.933). Sighting proportions did not differ by habitat type (P=0.668) or year P=0.328). Experienced observers detected a greater proportion of nests (P<0.0001) than did either less experienced or inexperienced observers. Reliable estimates of nest abundance can be derived from aerial counts of alligator nests when corrected by the appropriate sighting proportion.

The importance of public lands for mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) hunting in the Southeast may increase as other dove hunting opportunities decrease. Maximimizing satisfaction of dove hunters on public lands requires knowledge concerning hunter opinions and preferences. We documented dove hunter satisfaction on state Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Alabama with respect to habitat and hunter management. Crops planted were the primary management concern; hunters preferred corn and browntop millet for dove hunting. Most dove hunters encountered unsafe conditions primarily blamed on crowding, but safety problems detracted little from overall hunting satisfaction. Hunters generally were satisfied with regulation enforcement and season starting date. Low success or perceived likelihood of success did not appear responsible for a low percentage of dove hunters using WMAs, and these factors seemed unimportant to overall satisfaction.

Age structure of harvested populations is important to wildlife biologists to adequately observe effects of harvest and management regimes. We aged harvested cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) and swamp (S. aquaticus) rabbits by eye lens weight. We developed 2 logistic regression equations based on external morphometrics (mass [N=213] and hind foot length [N=209]) to predict age and species. Our model used to delineate species had high correct classification rates (>89%). Hind foot length and mass were significant predictors of age class for both species and correct classification rates were high (>78%). These predictive equations will allow wildlife biologists to determine species and age of rabbits in the field for less cost compared to other methods. Therefore, we believe our models will assist wildlife biologists in estimating age structure and determining species of harvested rabbits.

Size distribution information is useful for crocodilian management, but can be hard to obtain. Indirect and less costly demographic inferences made from track measurements may be valuable for management decisions. We related hind-foot lengths (HF) with total length (TL) to determine if we could indirectly assess alligator size using track length. Regression showed that HF was an excellent predictor (F1,246= 15722.9, R2=0.98, P<0.01) of TL and track length was an exceptional predictor of HF (F1,14=7520.3, R2= 1.00, P<0.01). The correlation between track length and HF length also was significant (N= 15, r=0.99, P <0.01). Thus, alligator size can be accurately estimated from measures of track length at sites where capture and direct measurement is impractical.

We estimated survival and cause-specific mortality of 59 raccoons (Procyon lotor) on a wildlife area in Mississippi which was in the early stages of an intensive land management program to enhance northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) habitat quality and populations. Average annual survival of radio-collared raccoons was 0.81 for males (N=47) and 0.79 for females (N=12) from March 1997 to February 1999. We detected no effect of sex, season, year, or age (P≥0.05) on survival. Causes of mortality (N=14) included vehicle collision (N=5), unknown (N=4), harvest (N=2), predation (N= 1), parasites (N= 1), and weather-related (N= 1). Potential factors controlling raccoon populations on these areas may only include harvests and periodic epizootic outbreaks. The effects of habitat management used to enhance bobwhite populations on raccoons and other nest predators, including varying spatial-temporal distributions of edge and disturbance, are not well known.