Proceedings of Southeastern Fish and Wildlife Conference

Prior to 2013, SEAFWA published the Proceedings of annual conferences. In 2014, SEAFWA began publishing the peer-reviewed Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

View articles by author

 

1451 - 1500 of 4522 articles | 50 per page | page 30

 

Article Year

Identification of Six Catfish Species Utilizing Isoelectrically Focused Muscle Tissue

Isoelectric focusing (IEF) and densitometric scanning were used to identify 6 species of catfish based on diagnostic bands and banding patterns produced by muscle proteins. Blue catfish (lctalurus furcatus), white catfish (Ictalurus catus), and flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) each have diagnostic bands in pH 4-5 gels that allow positive species identification. IEF of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) musculature in this pH range exhibits a polymorphic system.

Paul K. Whitehead, W. D. Harvey

Pages 138-145

Details | Download

1989

Evaluation of a Length-categorization System for Flathead Catfish

Increased management of wild catfish stocks is imminent due to their growing popularity with anglers and commercial exploitation. Length-categorization systems, like those used for largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), would improve catfish stock assessment and facilitate comparison of results among years, gears, samples, and populations. Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) from the Flint River, Georgia, collected by electrofishing and those caught by fishermen were assessed with Proportional Stock Density (PSD) and Relative Stock Density (RSD) indices.

Stephen P. Quinn

Pages 146-152

Details | Download

1989

Bioenergetic Values of Shads and Sunfishes as Prey for Largemouth Bass

We conducted laboratory and field investigations to detennine the relative value of shads (Dorosoma spp.) and sunfishes (Lepomis spp.) as prey for largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). In the laboratory, we examined the energy content of gizzard shad (D. cepedianum) and bluegill (L. macrochirus) and digestibility by largemouth bass. Although the ratios of proximate components in the 2 prey species differed, total energy contents as calories per gram were equal.

L. E. Miranda, R. J. Muncy

Pages 153-163

Details | Download

1989

Effects of Two Alternative Minimum-length and Creel Limits on a Largemouth Bass Population

We measured effects of an increase in the largemouth bass minimum length limit from 254-mm to 406-mm and a decrease in the creel limit from 10 per day to 3 per day in Tradinghouse Creek Reservoir, Texas, from 1985 to 1987. Electrofishing and rotenone surveys were used to measure regulation effects on largemouth bass population and predator-prey parameters; angler surveys were used to determine effects on creel rates. After the regulation was implemented, the population structure shifted from one dominated by small, young individuals to one dominated by larger, older fish.

John M. Mitchell, K. K. Sellers

Pages 164-171

Details | Download

1989

Effects of an Increased Size Limit for Largemouth Bass in West Point Reservoir

The minimum legal size of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) was increased from 305 to 406 mm in 1983 on West Point Reservoir to indirectly increase young-of-the-year recruitment by gizzard shad (Dorsoma cepedianum). Fish collections from 1982 through 1987 indicated that largemouth bass increased in abundance in response to the regulation change and their population structure shifted toward larger sizes. Concurrently, gizzard shad size distribution shifted downward.

Leslie M. Ager

Pages 172-181

Details | Download

1989

Introgression of Florida Largemouth Bass Introduced into Northern Largemouth Bass Populations in Oklahoma Reservoirs

Populations of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) in Oklahoma reservoirs were sampled in 1986 and 1987 to determine the degree of introgression of Florida largemouth bass (M. s. floridanus), introduced over a 16-year period, into populations of native northern largemouth bass (M. s. salmoides). Florida subspecific alleles were present in 28 of 30 populations (93%) and were found in >50% of the fish from 8 (27%) reservoirs.

Eugene R. Gilliland, J. Whitaker

Pages 182-190

Details | Download

1989

Relative Efficiency of Two Trawls for Monitoring Juvenile Fish Abundance

Twenty-seven comparison tows were made between a 2-seam otter trawl with 6 loops of 13 link, 4.8-mm chain attached to the leadline (original net) and an identical trawl with additional chain loops attached every 25.4 cm across the entire leadline (heavily chained net) during June-August 1988 in tributaries of the Neuse River, N.C. Objectives were to determine the effect of the heavily chained net on the juvenile finfish, crab, and shrimp catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE) estimates and the feasibility of developing conversion factors to convert CPUE estimates from one net type to the other.

Paul S. Phalen, D. W. Moye, S. A. Spence

Pages 191-197

Details | Download

1989

Catch of White Crappie in Trap Nets in Relation to Soak Time and Fish Abundance

The effects of soak time and fish density on number and size of white crappie (Pomoxis annularis) caught with trap nets were investigated in Mississippi lakes. Catch/set (1-7 days) of large white crappie (≥200-mm total length) increased asymptotically with soak time, but that of small and medium fish (<130 and 130-199 mm, respectively) decreased after the first 2-3 days. Catch/day of all length groups of white crappie, increased sharply with soak time, peaked in 1-3 days, and decreased thereafter.

M. S. Schorr, L. E. Miranda

Pages 198-205

Details | Download

1989

Computer Assisted Techniques for Standardized Fisheries Data Collection and Analysis

Fisheries personnel of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission have developed a standardized system of collecting, analyzing, and reporting electrofishing and rotenone sample data. The system utilizes microcomputers and custom written Microsoft QuickBasic Version 4.0 programs and dBASE files to compile sample data, generate reports, and store information in a statewide database. This system provides fish managers with a quick method for processing data with in-depth analysis while relieving them of time consuming manual processing of sample data.

William M. Bivin, M. L. Armstrong, S. P. Filipek

Pages 206-215

Details | Download

1989

Field Toxicity Tests in Three North Florida Rivers

Larval fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), <48 hours old, were exposed to water from the Apalachicola, Choctawhatchee, and Ochlockonee rivers in northern Florida during field toxicity tests in November 1985 and April 1986. The fish were exposed for 6 or 7 days in a flow-through system to control water; full-strength river water; and 50%, 25%, and 12.5% dilutions of river water. Mortality in full-strength Choctawhatchee River water was significantly higher (40% mortality) than in control water or in the 3 other dilutions of the river water (<15% mortality).

Parley V. Winger

Pages 216-222

Details | Download

1989

Growth of Introduced Stizostedion Hybrids in Cherokee Reservoir, Tennessee

Growth of introduced Stizostedion hybrids (S. vitreum x S. canadense) was examined from July 1983 to December 1985. Hybrids averaged 296 and 442 mm TL at ages 1 and 11. Condition factors (K) of hybrids increased with age, while relative weights (W,) were within the acceptable range (95-105) for all but 3 months of the first 2 years following introduction. Both condition indices decreased sharply during the spring and early summer.

Arnold G. Woodward, J. L. Wilson

Pages 223-229

Details | Download

1989

Movements of Gulf of Mexico Sturgeon in the Apalachicola River, Florida

A telemetry study was conducted in the Apalachicola River/estuary, Florida, to determine migratory behavior of anadromous Gulf of Mexico sturgeon. Ultrasonic (remote and mobile units) and radio telemetry gears were used to assess movements of sturgeon in both fresh and saltwater. Transmitter-equipped fish (N = 10) began fall migration between 22 September and 19 October 1987, and averaged 4.6 days to descend 152 Ian to the lower Apalachicola River where freshwater "staging areas" were utilized for periods of 0-20 days prior to moving into brackish river water.

John S. Odenkirk

Pages 230-238

Details | Download

1989

Food Resource Competition in Southern Appalachian Brook and Rainbow Trout

Food habits of sympatric and allopatric populations of adult brook trout (Salvelinus !ontinalis) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from 4 streams in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park were compared to determine if competition for food resources might explain the apparent exclusion of the former by the latter in Southern Appalachian streams. When diets of brook trout in sympatry with rainbow trout were compared with diets of brook trout in allopatry, there was little significant change in prey composition.

William E. Ensign, J. W. Habera, R. J. Strange

Pages 239-247

Details | Download

1989

Line Transect vs. Capture-removal Estimates of Bobwhite Density

We compared estimates of northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) density derived from line transect (LT) and capture-removal (CR) sampling with each other and with 2 independent indices of abundance (coveys flushed/party-hour of hunting and captures/l00 trap-sets). CR estimates were not correlated with either index (P ≥ 0.371), whereas LT estimates were correlated with captures/100 trap-sets (P = 0.009) and not with coveys/party-hour (P = 0.156).

Fred S. Guthery, T. E. Shupe

Pages 248-252

Details | Download

1989

Whistling-cock Indices as a Measure of Northern Bobwhite Harvest in North Carolina

Counts of whistling male northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) were conducted on standardized routes from 1981-86 at Fort Bragg Military Reservation, North Carolina. Harvest data were collected at check stations from 1967-86, and were used to monitor population fluctuations. A linear relationships (r2 = 0.89, P < 0.01) was observed between the mean number of quail heard per station and the subsequent fall harvest. The call index and hunter success also were related (r2 = 0.73, P < 0.03).

Paul D. Curtis, P. D. Doerr, R. M. Oates, K. H. Pollock

Pages 253-259

Details | Download

1989

Problems of Estimating Northern Bobwhite Populations at Low Density

A known population density was established for northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) on a lOO-ha pasture. Line transects were walked twice/day for 5 days to obtain a density estimate. Twelve density estimators using the linetransect data were compared to the known bobwhite density. On our study area, 6 estimators overestimated bobwhite density and 6 of them underestimated density. Because few coveys were flushed, individual transect replicates had to be pooled to provide estimates.

William P. Kuvlesky, Jr., B. H. Koerth, N. J. Silvy

Pages 260-267

Details | Download

1989

Nutrient Reserve Models for Post-breeding Lesser Prairie-chicken

We developed and evaluated 7 least-squares regression models to estimate body fat and protein reserves from external measurements of post-breeding male and female lesser prairie-chickens (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus). For males, protein was adequately modeled (R2 = 0.60), but attempts to model body fat were unsuccessful. For females useful fat (R2 = 0.92), log fat (R2 = 0.74), condition index (R2 = 0.58), and protein (R2 = 0.74) models were derived.

David A. Haukos, L. M. Smith, C. D. Olawsky

Pages 268-274

Details | Download

1989

Periodic Observations on an Unhunted South Carolina Deer Herd: 1976-1989

Periodic observations from 1976 through 1989 on an unhunted whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) herd located in coastal South Carolina indicated that the population had likely incurred a major decline from a hemorrhagic disease (HD) outbreak, and another may be imminent. Weights of adult does were comparable to those of the hunted herd on the nearby Francis Marion National Forest. Conception rates were insensitive to the occurrence of HD or acorn mast failures.

Gene W. Wood, L. A. Woodward

Pages 275-285

Details | Download

1989

Estimating Age of White-tailed Deer: Tooth Wear Versus Cementum Annuli

Ages of 76 known-age white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) were estimated by tooth wear and replacement (TWR) and by incisor cementum annuli (CA) determination. TWR and CA methods gave similar results (75% and 71% correct, respectively). However, accuracy was dependent on deer age, with TWR being more accurate than CA in age classes <3.5 years and CA being more accurate in age classes >3.5 years. Accuracy of 55 southeastern United States biologists in estimating age of 98 known-age deer jaws also was determined.

Harry A. Jacobson, R. J. Reiner

Pages 286-291

Details | Download

1989

Classifying Male White-tailed Deer from a Helicopter

We evaluated how well observers in a helicopter classed male white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) into groups ≤3.5 or ≥4.5 years old. Resightings of individually marked anti previously aged deer on 2 southern Texas ranches were used for evaluation during repeated helicopter surveys from 1986 to 1988. Classifications of marked males were at least ≥90% correct on 11 of 14 flights on 1 ranch and 6 of 14 on the other. Although accuracy was acceptable on many flights, some flights gave inaccurate estimates (> 10% misclassified) of male composition.

Charles A. DeYoung, J. R. Heffelfinger, S. L. Beasom, S. P. Coughlin

Pages 292-296

Details | Download

1989

Predicting In Vivo Dry Matter, Energy, and Protein Digestibility of Deer Forages

We investigated 4 in vitro digestion procedures to estimate dry matter, energy, and apparent protein digestibilities of 2 southern Texas white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) forages. Standard 2-stage rumen inoculum technique consistently underestimated in vivo dry matter digestibility by 1% to 9%, but could be corrected to in vivo values by regression analyses (R2 = 0.89). This technique also predicted digestible energy (kcal/g) and digestible protein (g/100g feed) accurately (R2 = 0.84 and 0.71, respectively).

Thomas G. Barnes, L. W. Varner, L. H. Blankedship, J. F. Gallager

Pages 297-305

Details | Download

1989

Landowner Reports of Deer Damage in the Arkansas Coastal Plain

We surveyed 611 rural landowners in the Arkansas Coastal Plain in 1987 to detennine perceptions of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) damage to agricultural and forestry crops. Respondents (N = 231) owned an average of 148 ha, with the 2 greatest areas in row crops (98 ha), such as soybeans, cotton, and rice, and forests (38 ha). One-half (50%) of respondents had sustained deer damage, most (52%) of whom described it as minimal. Landowners who estimated financial losses from deer reported an average loss of $1,650: 61% lost <$1,000, and 1% lost >$10,000.

T. Bently Wigley, Jr., R. A. Kluender, R. A. Pierce

Pages 306-312

Details | Download

1989

Response of Forest Birds to an Improvement Cut in Kentucky

An improvement cut that removed commercially low-quality trees from an unmanaged 20-ha, 60-year-old, mixed mesophytic forest in Kentucky reduced the availability of cavities, snags, and small seeds. Stand basal area was reduced from 21 to 17 m2/ha. The abundance of primary and secondary cavity-using birds, as well as neotropical, migrant songbirds, was not affected severely by the cut.

G. A. McPeek, G. E.Jacoby, P. L. Groetsch, William C. Mccomb

Pages 313-325

Details | Download

1989

Reoccupation of Abandoned Clusters of Cavity Trees (Colonies) by Red-cockaded WoodPeCkers

We documented red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) occupation of cavity tree clusters on North Carolina study areas from 1980-88. Most occupied cavity tree clusters (93%) were used in consecutive years, but 6.8% were abandoned each year. Abandoned sites were captured or reoccupied at an annual rate of 8.7%, implying there is a 60% chance that an abandoned site will be reoccupied in a 10-year period. However, recently abandoned clusters were reoccupied at a much higher rate than long-abandoned clusters.

Phillip D. Doerr, J. R.Walters, J. H. Carter III

Pages 326-336

Details | Download

1989

Habitat Use by Southern Fox Squirrel in Coastal South Carolina

We monitored 18 southern fox squirrels (Sciurus niger niger) by telemetry in coastal South Carolina to determine habitat use in relation to availability of habitat types within observed home-range areas. Fox squirrels used leaf nests primarily, although females preferred to nest in cavities during winter. Nests were concentrated in hardwoods with a preference for oak (Quercus spp.) and gum (Nyssa spp.) species with >20 cm DBH (diameter breast height).

John W. Edwards D. C. Guynn, Jr., M. R. Lennartz

Pages 337-345

Details | Download

1989

Correlation of Woodcock Counts with Habitat Types in Eastern Texas

We used correlation analysis to test for relationships between habitat types and numbers of courting American woodcock (Scolopax minor) recorded along singing-ground survey routes in eastern Texas. Availability of 10 different habitat types was quantified at each survey route stop and compared to the number of woodcock recorded. Numbers of courting woodcock recorded were strongly correlated to pine (Pinus spp.) seedling and pine sapling habitats. Results may prove helpful in monitoring long-term trends in singing-ground habitat availability.

Philip A. Tappe, R. M. Whiting, Jr.

Pages 346-349

Details | Download

1989

Nest Habitat Use by Eastern Wild Turkeys in Eastern Texas

We studied habitat used for nesting by eastern wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris) on intensively managed pine forest land in eastern Texas in 1980 and 1981. Most (89%) nests were within 100 m of a road or timber stand boundary. Nest sites had <60% canopy closure, low density of rnidstory trees (16 stems/0.04 ha), low basal area (9 m2/ha), and abundant herbaceous ground and shrub cover. Retaining forest openings resulting from logging activity likely will enhance nesting habitat for turkeys in eastern Texas.

Curtis R. Hopkins, Joseph J. Campo, W. G. Swank

Pages 350-354

Details | Download

1989

Movements and Wintering Locales of Atlantic Flyway Canada Geese

A "home range" analysis using 23,285 observations of 6,036 neck-banded Canada geese (Branta canadensis) seen from 16 October to 28 February 1984-87, identified wintering concentration areas within the Atlantic Flyway. Biweekly sampling of 4 cohorts affiliated with these concentration areas during the last 2 weeks of January revealed that >90% of the geese wintering in the Chesapeake Bay and western Pennsylvania regions arrived in these areas by early October.

George E. Menkens, Jr., R. A. Malecki

Pages 355-361

Details | Download

1989

Social Organization in a Flock of Resident Canada Geese

Visual observations of marked individuals in a resident flock of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) on the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, AlabamaGeorgia, were conducted from July 1980 through May 1982. Associations among geese were examined during 2 periods (breeding, February-May; and nonbreeding, June-January). Social groupings were determined for 231 geese in 1980-81 and 240 in 1981-82 based on 4,577 observations during the breeding season and 666 observations during the nonbreeding season.

Daniel L. Combs

Pages 362-371

Details | Download

1989

Temporal Changes in Fall and Winter Foods of Canada Geese

We studied fall and winter food habits of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) in the Swan Lake Zone of north-central Missouri during the 1980-82 hunting seasons. Gizzards from hunter-killed geese were obtained during 5 periods of each hunting season. Average proportions of native foods, row crops, winter wheat, and other forage were highly variable among and within years. Row crops in the diet ranged from an average of 1.1%to 99.6% by volume, compared to 0.3% to 98.8% for native foods.

Diane Roth Eggeman, D. D. Humburg, D. A. Graber, L. J. Korschgen

Pages 373-379

Details | Download

1989

Wood Duck Nest Site Selection in Eastern Texas

Nest box use, nesting success, and nesting habitat characteristics were examined on 6 study areas in eastern Texas during 1984-85. Box use averaged 29% and nesting success decreased from 82% to 64% over the 2-year study. Nest box characteristics selected by wood ducks (Ab: sponsa) included a lower clear tree bole, orientation of the hole toward open or vegetated water, and proximity of 1 or more additional nest boxes.

Mary E. May, J. C. Kroll

Pages 380-388

Details | Download

1989

Effectiveness of a Statewide Cooperative Wood Duck Nest Box Program

Fifty of > 1,000 landowners participating in the South Carolina Wildlife and Marine Resources Department (SCWMRD) wood duck (Aix sponsa) nest box program were selected at random to evaluate the program's effectiveness. We inspected 311 of 8,561 boxes bi-weekly throughout the 1987 nesting season. Most (95%) of the boxes allocated had been installed, and 82% of those installed were considered acceptable for use by wood ducks. Most (90%) cooperators had at least 1 nest start, and 69% of the available boxes were used. There were an average of 6.5 ducklings produced per available box.

Michael Crocker, T. T. Fendley

Pages 389-395

Details | Download

1989

Trends in Wintering Canvasback Populations at Catahoula Lake, Louisiana

Aerial survey data (1968-1989) and water gauge readings (1958-1989) were examined to detennine trends in and relationships between canvasback (Aythya valisineria) populations and water levels at Catahoula Lake, Louisiana. Wintering canvasback populations at Catahoula Lake have increased over the past 21 years. A peak population estimate of 78,000 canvasbacks was recorded in January 1988. There was a significant relationship between increases in wintering canvasback numbers and increased November water levels.

Dennis W. Woolington, J. W. Emfinger

Pages 396-403

Details | Download

1989

Nutrient Reserves of Lesser Scaup in Mid-winter in Southwestern Louisiana

We examined the influence of age and sex on body composition and organs of lesser scaup (Aythya ajfinis) during mid-winter in southwestern Louisiana. Except for intestine weight, organs and body components were similar in size between adult and immature lesser scaup. Body components and organs of males generally were larger than those of females. Body weights of lesser scaup in our study were lower than those reported from the same area more than 20 years ago. Declines in condition could result in lowered survival or reproductive performance.

Alan D. Afton, R. H. Hier, S. L. Paulus

Pages 404-411

Details | Download

1989

Dabbling Duck Response to a Late-winter Variation in Saltmarsh Bulrush Management

Late winter dabbling duck use of experimentally manipulated saltmarsh bulrush (Scirpus robustus) was evaluated in managed brackish wetlands in the Santee River Delta, South Carolina, during 3-21 February 1989. Three 1-ha plots were established in each of 3 treatments: saltmarsh bulrush that was dewatered, burned, and reflooded (burned, flooded bulrush [BFB]); saltmarsh bulrush that was dewatered and then reflooded (unburned, flooded bulrush [UFB]); and low stemdensity saltmarsh bulrush that was flooded throughout winter (winter-flooded bulrush [WFB]).

Charles R. Loesch, R. K. Williams, D. H. Gordon

Pages 412-420

Details | Download

1989

Climatic and Aquacultural Influences on Waterfowl Use of Catfish Ponds

We compared climatic and pond-management parameters with aerial census estimates of waterfowl and American coots (Fulica americana) on randomly selected clusters of channel catfish (lctalurus punctatus) impoundments in the Delta Region of Mississippi from November 1983 to March 1984 and from October 1984 to March 1985. Mean total waterfowl and coot estimates for 1983-84 and 1984-85 were 51,853 and 81,325, respectively. Numbers of lesser scaup (Aytha affinis) increased four-fold the second winter. Weekly waterfowl and coot populations fluctuated with temperature, rainfall, and ice over.

Mark W. Christopher, E. P. Hill

Pages 421-429

Details | Download

1989

Application of a Habitat Suitability Index Model for Wintering Black Ducks

The Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) model (Lewis and Garrison 1984) for wintering American black ducks (Anas rubripes) was applied during 1985 and 1986 at Chincoteague, Virginia. HSI values of 0.66 and 0.56 were obtained during the 2 respective years. We suggested improvements in field methods for estimating biological variables. Modification of 1 variable (V6) and inclusion of a new variable (proportion of total land and water represented by saltmarsh, Vg) were proposed to improve model output.

John M. Morton, D.W. Howerter, R. L. Kirkpatrick

Pages 430-436

Details | Download

1989

Movement Patterns of Muskrats in a Louisiana Coastal Marsh

Diel movement of muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) in a Louisiana brackish, coastal marsh was determined using 37 radio-collared muskrats and a total of 2,046 radio fixes during a 13-month period. Monthly home range averaged 0.48 ha but varied considerably among animals; no differences in home ranges were detected among seasons or sex-age classes of muskrats. Also, no differences in hourly movements were found among sex-age classes during periods of day. During winter and spring, differences were detected among individual muskrats.

Robert H. Chabreck, P. D. Keyser, D. A. Dell, R. G. Linscombe

Pages 437-443

Details | Download

1989

Pesticide, PCB, and Heavy Metal Residues in South Carolina Mink

Tissues from 61 mink (Mustela vison) harvested in two areas in South Carolina during the 1987-88 season were screened for pesticide, PCB, and heavy metal residues. Low levels of DDT and DDE were detected. Although 90% of samples contained measurable levels of DDE, the low concentrations found in all but I animal should not present any problems to these mink populations. Many (43%) samples contained PCBs, and all samples had detectible heavy metal residues.

D. Breck Carmichael, Jr., O. E. Baker, III

Pages 444-451

Details | Download

1989

A Comparison of Scent-station Surveys and Track Counts for Monitoring Furbearers

Scent-station and track-count transects were monitored simultaneously in 5 units of the Big Thicket National Preserve. We examined these transects for furbearer tracks for 3 consecutive days every 3 months from January 1987 through March 1988. Greater species diversity and species richness of furbearers were recorded on track-count surveys than on scent-station surveys on 4 of the 5 study units. The number of monitoring periods with no record of a species group was compared between the 2 techniques.

Reginald J. Stapper, D. L. Rakestraw, D. B. Fagre, N. J. Silvy

Pages 452-459

Details | Download

1989

Anatomical Development of Captive Bobcats in Mississippi

The eyes of bobcat (Felis rufus) kittens opened between 9 and 16 days of age in 3 stages (watering, beginning to open, and complete opening) lasting 1-2 days each. Birth weights averaged 125 g. Growth curves peaked at 60 weeks (x¯ = 10 kg) for males and at 55 weeks (x¯ = 8 kg) for females. Log transformations of nose to rump length, and front leg length were highly correlated with age (r ≥ 0.94).

Debra L. Jackson, E. A. Gluesing, H. A. Jocobson, B. D. Leopold

Pages 460-465

Details | Download

1989

Bobcat Pelt Quality and Temporal Distribution of Harvest in Texas

We surveyed licensed bobcat (Felis rufus) pelt dealers to detennine relative abundance of high-quality pelts during the commercial harvest season (15 Nov 1982 to 15 Feb 1988) in Texas. Respondents indicates most high-quality pelts were obtained during January and February. Abundance of high-quality pelts was low from 15 to 30 November, but few bobcats were harvested during this time. Current season dates seem reasonable if managers wish to maximize recreational opportunities rather than pelt quality.

Robert D. Bluett, M. E. Tewes, B. C. Thompson

Pages 466-469

Details | Download

1989

Coyote Use of White-tailed Deer Fawns in Relation to Deer Density

We detennined summer diets of coyotes (Canis latrans) from analysis of 523 scats and 9 stomachs collected on 7 study areas in Mississippi, Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee from May 1985 to September 1986. We compared coyote diets among 4 areas where white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) occurred in high densities (HDA's) and 3 areas with low deer densities (LDA's) during prefawning, fawning, and post-fawning periods on each study area.

Keith M. Blanton, E. P. Hill

Pages 470-478

Details | Download

1989

Response of Eastern Tennessee Raccoon Hunters to Managed Hunting

Raccoon (Procyon lotor) hunters (N = 269) who participated in 3 nights of managed raccoon hunting in eastern Tennessee during 1984 were surveyed by mail questionnaire; 149 (55%) responded. Hunters responded favorably to hunting in assigned areas, limiting hunting party size to 3 persons, and restricting the number of dogs to lIhunter. Ninety-eight percent planned to hunt under the same managed conditions in 1985. Hunters estimated they spent $15 a night to hunt and were willing to pay an additional $5-$10 for a I-day permit to finance raccoon management practices.

David M. Kocka, M. R. Pelton

Pages 479-484

Details | Download

1989

Survey of Habitat Management Assistance by Forestry and Extension Personnel on Nonindustrial Private Lands in the Southeastern United States

Assistance foresters in the 12 southeastern states were surveyed by mail questionnaire to ascertain the amount of habitat management they recommended for nonindustrial, private forest (NIPP) lands. The efforts of state wildlife extension specialists also were estimated by examining existing data sources. Assistance foresters managed >550,000 ha for wildlife in 1987, with >60% of this being reported by private consultants. The 550,000 ha represented >20% of the total area managed by assistance foresters during the year.

Donald G. Hodges

Pages 485-491

Details | Download

1989

Radio-controlled Mechanical Drop-net Trigger

We developed a simple device to remotely trigger a drop-net without the use of blasting caps. It uses standard telemetry equipment and allows release of the net from a distance limited only by transmitter range. The device proved reliable and safe for capturing white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and significantly increased trapping efficiency and success.

Stefan Holzenbein, C. M. Wemmer, R. L. Marchinton

Pages 492-496

Details | Download

1989

The Training of a Georgia Conservation Ranger

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has a comprehensive basic training program for all conservation ranger recruits. The Conservation Ranger School consists of 16 weeks of vigorous training at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth. The training is coordinated and conducted by veteran officers who not only have years of experience, but who have prepared themselves as trainers by attending numerous instructor training programs and by spending much time involved in research and lesson preparation.

Martha F. Sessions

Pages 497-506

Details | Download

1989

Officer Survival Training Within Florida's Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission

Officer survival training begins with the basic firearms course which is taught to all newly hired wildlife officers. The course consists of the fundamentals of shooting a revolver and shotgun. However, we take the course a step further and stress the importance of mental conditioning as it relates to surviving a gun battle. Our advanced firearms program relentlessly drills in the idea of mental conditioning. The training philosophy is "repetition leads to instinctive shooting." Repetitive drills in all aspects of firearms use are performed.

Rolando J. Garcia

Pages 507-514

Details | Download

1989

Forensic Metal Detectors for Nontoxic Shot Enforcement in Migratory Waterfowl

The enforcement of the nontoxic shot regulation for migratory waterfowl has been a continuing problem for wildlife officers due to the problem of apprehending hunters with lead shot shells in their possession. The specialized forensic metal detector allows the wildlife officer to inspect the hunter's daily bag either in the blind or at his vehicle and to determine in the birds contain lead shot pellets, steel shot pellets, no shot pellets (neutral), or a combination of lead shot pellets and steel shot pellets.

Michael Stockdale

Pages 515-522

Details | Download

1989

The Positive Approach for Wildlife Violation Interrogations

Interrogation can be, at times, the most important part of an investigation. If an officer did not observe the violation, has very little evidence, and witnesses are unwilling to testify, interrogation may well be the only route to successful prosecution. An interrogator may enhance his chances of success by studying and practicing interrogation techniques. The positive approach is a technique which makes it difficult for the suspect to deny knowledge of the violation as statements and questions are phrased to make it appear that his guilt has already been established.

Darrell W. Walden

Pages 523-529

Details | Download

1989