National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science

Northeast Temperate Network Breeding Landbird 

Monitoring Protocol

2015 Revision 

Natural Resource Report NPS/NETN/NRR—2015/942
ON THE COVER

Northern Parula. 

Photograph by: Creative Commons photo by Dan Pancamo 
Northeast Temperate Network Breeding Landbird 

Monitoring Protocol

2015 Revision

Natural Resource Report NPS/NETN/NRR—2015/942

Steven D. Faccio

Vermont Center for Ecostudies

20 Palmer Court

White River Junction, VT 05001

Brian R. Mitchell

Northeast Temperate Network

Inventory and Monitoring Program

National Park Service

54 Elm Street

Woodstock, VT 05091

Penelope S. Pooler

Northeast Coastal Barrier Network

Inventory and Monitoring Program

National Park Service

1 Greenhouse Road

Kingston, Rhode Island 02892

April 2015

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science

Fort Collins, Colorado

 

 
ii

The National Park Service, Natural Resource Stewardship and Science office in Fort Collins, 

Colorado, publishes a range of reports that address natural resource topics. These reports are of 

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information is scientifically credible, technically accurate, appropriately written for the intended 

audience, and designed and published in a professional manner. 

This report received formal peer review by subject-matter experts who were not directly involved in 

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Views, statements, findings, conclusions, recommendations, and data in this report do not necessarily 

reflect views and policies of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Mention of 

trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use by 

the U.S. Government.

This report is available from the Northeast Temperate Network website 

(http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/netn/) and the Natural Resource Publications Management 

website (http://www.nature.nps.gov/publications/nrpm/). To receive this report in a format optimized 

for screen readers, please email irma@nps.gov.

Please cite this publication as:

Faccio, S., B. R. Mitchell, and P. S. Pooler. 2015. Northeast Temperate Network breeding landbird 

monitoring protocol: 2015 revision. Natural Resource Report NPS/NETN/NRR—2015/942. National 

Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado.

NPS 962/128348, April 2015
iii

Revision History

Version numbers will be incremented by a whole number (e.g., Version 1.3 to 2.0) when a change is 

made that significantly affects requirements or procedures. Version numbers will be incremented by 

decimals (e.g., Version 1.06 to Version 1.07) when there are minor modifications that do not affect 

requirements or procedures included in the protocol. Add rows as needed for each change or set of 

changes tied to an updated version number.

Revision History Log

Version # Date Revised by Changes

1.00 April 2006 Steve Faccio Protocol narrative for the 2006 field season.

2.00 April 2007 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Protocol narrative for the 2007 field season (except that 

data entry was into the USGS point count database).

New sampling design for ACAD.

Considered adding grassland point count stations for MIMA; 

this was not done because of the small grassland area and 

the fact that grasslands are scattered across the park (and 

may be difficult to sample by one person as a single study 

site). This decision may be revisited at a future time.

3.00 April 2008 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Addition of SAIR to the monitoring program.

Insert text emphasizing compatibility with GLKN and 

USFWS protocols.

Minor edits throughout.

Revised monitoring objectives to meet new I&M program 

guidance.

Added information about new point count station marking 

methods at ACAD.

Added information about end-of-season procedures

Revised Appendix A and added SAIR

4.00 January 2009 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Penelope 

Pooler

Many sections significantly revised and updated; several 

sections added to comply with Oakley et al. standards.

Revised Objective 3, and added information to the Data 

Analysis section pertaining to this objective

Revised Data Management section to reflect use of USGS 

Point Count Database (since 2007).

Added Data Archiving section

Added section on Operational Requirements, including time, 

equipment, and budget.

Revised power analysis information.

Added Appendix B and renumbered appendices (A, B, C 

instead of I, II, III) to comply with NETN format.

Other minor edits.

4.01 March 2009 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Penelope 

Pooler

Power analysis section revised.

Minor edits.

4.02 April 2009 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Incorporated comments from 3 independent reviewers as 

well as several NETN park staff.

4.03 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatted and minor edits.
iv

Revision History Log (continued)

Version # Date Revised by Changes

4.04 December 

2009

Steve Faccio 

Brian Mitchell

Incorporated comments from 3 additional independent 

reviewers.

Removed Appendix B – reviewers of other protocols did not 

feel that the statistical summary was relevant.

4.05 February 2012 Brian Mitchell Added safety information to Personnel Requirements and 

Training.

Added Safety SOP to protocol.

4.06 May 2012 Brian Mitchell 

and Steve 

Faccio

Modified avian ecological integrity assessments to more 

closely match procedures of O’Connell et al. (2000). 

Limited to 5 avian groups, and updated guilds by adding 

EAPH to both assessments, and 18 new edge generalists 

and two grassland obligate raptors to the grassland 

assessment.

Added MIMA grassland site info.

4.07 December 

2012

Brian Mitchell 

and Steve 

Faccio

Revised grassland ecological integrity metrics to account 

for changes in guilds, and to match original intent (See 

SOP 9).

Study site route markings enhanced in all parks.

Data sheets will be uploaded to IRMA.

Replaced Appendix A with updated (2012) version.

4.08 February 2013 Brian Mitchell Numerous minor edits and clarifications after Regional 

Program Manager review.

4.09 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Updated quality control description to discuss QC with 

audio recordings rather than independent double observer 

counts; independent counts were too logistically difficult.

Removed references to project management by VCE, 

replaced with “Project Manager” and specified in the 

Personnel section that the Project Manager is typically 

hired through contract.

Original data forms are now sent to NETN rather than 

retained by the contractor. Copies are not needed, since 

forms are scanned and placed on IRMA.

The Point Count Database is now part of the Avian 

Knowledge Network rather than USGS.

Updated SOP numbers due to insertion of SOP 6 (recorder 

QC procedures).

Volunteers unable to enter data within a month should mail 

data sheets to Project Manager.
v

Contents 

Page

Revision History ....................................................................................................................... iii

Figures..................................................................................................................................... vii

Tables...................................................................................................................................... vii

Appendix .................................................................................................................................. ix

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ..................................................................................... ix

Introduction ................................................................................................................................1

Background & Objectives ....................................................................................................1

Monitoring Objectives..........................................................................................................2

Sampling Design.........................................................................................................................5

Introduction..........................................................................................................................5

Site Selection .......................................................................................................................6

Sample Sizes........................................................................................................................9

Population Being Monitored.................................................................................................9

Sampling Frequency and Replication .................................................................................10

Power of Monitoring Protocol to Detect Change ................................................................10

Power Analysis Results......................................................................................................11

Field Methods...........................................................................................................................15

Field Schedule and Preparations.........................................................................................15

Sampling Methods .............................................................................................................15

End of Season Procedures..................................................................................................15

Data Management .....................................................................................................................17

Overview of Database Design ............................................................................................17

Data Entry and Verification................................................................................................17

Data Archiving...................................................................................................................18

Data Analysis............................................................................................................................19

Data Summaries and Statistical Analysis............................................................................19

Data Reporting..........................................................................................................................23

Ecological Integrity Assessment and Scorecard..................................................................23

Forest Breeding Landbird Assessment ...........................................................................23

Grassland Breeding Landbird Assessment .....................................................................25
vi

Contents (continued)

Page

Personnel Requirements and Training .......................................................................................27

Roles and Responsibilities..................................................................................................27

Volunteer Qualifications ....................................................................................................27

Training Procedures...........................................................................................................28

Operational Requirements.........................................................................................................29

Annual Workload and Field Schedule ................................................................................29

Volunteer Recruitment...................................................................................................29

Volunteer Training ........................................................................................................29

Field Season ..................................................................................................................30

Data Entry and QA/QC..................................................................................................30

Reporting.......................................................................................................................31

Facility and Equipment Needs............................................................................................31

Startup Costs and Budget Considerations ...........................................................................32

Example Annual Operating Budget (2008) ....................................................................32

Literature Cited.........................................................................................................................33
vii

Figures

Page

Figure 1. Distribution of National Park units in the Northeast Temperate Network 

where breeding landbird monitoring protocols.............................................................................3

Figure 2. Sampling frame for Acadia NP; blue shaded areas are within 1.5 km of 

roads and have slopes less than 30%............................................................................................8

Figure 3. Power to detect 5% and 10% population increases and decreases over 25 

years for species........................................................................................................................13

Figure 4. Power to detect 1 - 10% annual declines of four guilds based on number of 

point count stations over two time periods (10 and 20 years). ....................................................14

Tables 

Page

Table 1. Area of forested habitat (and grassland habitat at SARA and MIMA), and 

number of point count stations and study sites established at NETN parks...................................9

Table 2. Power to detect 3%, 5%, and 10% declines in the Shannon diversity index at 

each NETN park over 10 years using an alpha of 0.05...............................................................12

Table 3. Breeding landbird monitoring metrics and calculations from raw data.........................19

Table 4. Specific metrics of various explanatory variables that may be used in 

statistical modeling efforts. .......................................................................................................21

Table 5. Biotic integrity elements, guild categories, response guilds, and guild 

interpretations used in avian biotic integrity scorecard...............................................................24

Table 6. Avian ecological integrity thresholds for 13 response guilds (based on 

O’Connell et al. 2000, and Glennon and Porter 2005)................................................................25

Table 7. Avian scorecard metrics for grassland breeding landbird surveys at SARA.................26

ix

Appendix 

Page

Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF 

Continental and/or Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority. ....................37

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) 

Page

SOP 1 - Safety..........................................................................................................................45

SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics.................................................................................................87

SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers.............................................................................91

SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations ...........................................................97

SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts........................................................101

SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings ..............................................................................113

SOP 7 - Data Management......................................................................................................125

SOP 8 - Data Analysis............................................................................................................171

SOP 9 - Data Reporting ..........................................................................................................173

SOP 10 - Deviations and Summary of Major Changes............................................................199

1

Introduction 

Background & Objectives 

This protocol has been developed for long-term monitoring of forest and grassland breeding landbird 

populations within the National Park Service (NPS) Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) as part of 

the Inventory & Monitoring Program (IM). NETN consists of 13 parks, including the Appalachian 

National Scenic Trail (APPA). Excluding APPA, the parks total approximately 18,500 ha, with

diverse cultural and natural resources. They range in size from just 4 ha at Saugus Iron Works 

National Historic Site (SAIR), located near densely populated Boston, Massachusetts, to over 15,800 

ha at Maine’s Acadia National Park (ACAD).

On a broad scale, most NETN parks are located within the temperate deciduous forest biome, and fall 

within two avifaunal biomes (the Eastern and Northern Forest) as defined by Partners in Flight (PIF)

(Rich et al. 2004). At a finer scale, the parks range across four Bird Conservation Regions (BCRs) 

(Figure 1). BCRs, developed by the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI 2000), are 

ecologically defined units that provide a consistent spatial framework for bird conservation across 

North American landscapes. By employing broad scale units that are ecologically meaningful to bird 

populations, conservation efforts can be tailored to support groups of species throughout the heart of 

their ranges. Bird Conservation Regions are being used to help assign “conservation priority” scores 

for bird species. Each BCR has its own unique list of “priority” species ranked by conservation 

importance according to a standardized set of criteria determined by partners from Mexico, the U.S.

and Canada.

Breeding landbirds are an important component of park ecosystems, and their high body temperature, 

rapid metabolism, and prominent position in most food webs make them a good indicator of local 

and regional ecosystem change. It has been suggested that management activities aimed at preserving 

habitat for landbird populations, such as for Neotropical migrants, can have the added benefit of 

preserving entire ecosystems and their attendant ecosystem services (Karr 1991, Maurer 1993). 

Moreover, landbirds are a high profile taxa, and many parks provide information on the status and 

trends of the park’s avian community through their interpretive materials and programs.

In developing comprehensive long-term monitoring plans, landbirds (a general term used to describe 

relatively small, terrestrial birds, excluding raptors and upland game birds) are among the best 

taxonomic groups to monitor because: 1) they are the most easily and inexpensively detected and 

identified vertebrate animals, 2) a single survey method is effective for many species, 3) accounting 

and managing for many species with different ecological requirements promotes conservation 

strategies at the landscape scale (Hutto and Young 2002), 4) many reference datasets and standard 

methods are available (Ralph et al. 1993, 1995), and 5) the response variables are fairly well 

understood.

In addition, landbirds are a useful biotic indicator of the effects of habitat loss and fragmentation. 

While direct loss of habitat due to development is a primary threat to landbird populations,

Neotropical migrants appear to be particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation (Robinson and 

Wilcove 1994, Faaborg et al. 1995, Rosenberg et al. 1999). Forest fragmentation increases the 
2

prevalence of forest edges, resulting in higher rates of brood parasitism and nest predation within the 

remaining breeding habitat (Robinson et al. 1995). It is an ecological stressor that impacts all NETN 

parks due to the relatively small size of the parks and their land use histories. Although the NPS has 

some management control over fragmentation within the parks, fragmentation and habitat loss

outside park boundaries is widespread throughout much of the Northeastern region.

Although NETN contains 13 park units (including APPA), implementation of this landbird 

monitoring protocol will be limited to the following 11 parks: Acadia NP (ACAD); Marsh-BillingsRockefeller NHP (MABI); Minute Man NHP (MIMA); Morristown NHP (MORR); RooseveltVanderbilt NHS (ROVA - which contains Eleanor Roosevelt Mansion NHS, Home of Franklin D. 

Roosevelt NHS, and Vanderbilt Mansion NHS); Saint-Gaudens NHS (SAGA); Saugus Iron Works 

NHS (SAIR); Saratoga NHP (SARA); and Weir Farm NHS (WEFA) (Figure 1).

The Massachusetts Audubon Society will continue to monitor birds at Boston Harbor Islands 

National Park Area (BOHA), and a separate coastal breeding bird monitoring program was initiated 

by NETN in 2007 for BOHA. Monitoring the 2,175 mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail (APPA) 

is beyond the scope of this protocol. Ten of the 11 parks in the landbird monitoring program are

National Historical Parks or Historic Sites, and thus have a primary mandate to maintain historical 

features, landscapes, or practices. This mandate may have a substantial impact on ecological 

resources within these parks, as they are frequently managed to maintain early successional habitats, 

or incorporate agriculture or forestry.

Developing a uniform protocol for monitoring breeding landbirds across NETN parks will not only 

provide insights into the long-term trends of avian species composition and relative abundance, but 

will also provide a measure for assessing the ecological integrity of Northeastern temperate systems. 

Additionally, monitoring long-term patterns of breeding landbird composition and abundance relative 

to habitat change resulting from a variety of stressors (e.g., deer herbivory, invasive species, 

fragmentation, and silvicultural practices) will improve our understanding of their effects on breeding 

landbird populations and help guide management actions within NETN parks. This protocol will also 

contribute to greater understanding of breeding landbird population trends beyond NETN, since it is 

compatible with protocols developed by the Great Lakes Network (GLKN) and the U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service (USFWS; Knutson et al. 2008). This protocol is also compatible with methods used 

by the Mid-Atlantic Network (MIDN).

Monitoring Objectives

Because landbirds are an important natural resource and they are a robust indicator of ecosystem 

integrity, the overall goal of landbird monitoring is to track the status and trends of breeding 

landbirds within the dominant matrix forest habitat at each NETN park. Breeding landbird 

monitoring will also support and inform management decisions that may affect avian populations. 

Additional programmatic goals are to increase the visibility of the NETN Inventory & Monitoring 

Program (I&M) and to involve the public. Due to the small size of the majority of NETN parks, 

combined with the fact that this is a volunteer-based monitoring program, the ability to detect 

meaningful trends for individual species at each park will be limited. However, by aggregating data 

into species groupings, such as guilds or PIF priority species, the ability to detect trends will be 

increased. Additionally, NETN landbird monitoring will be partnering with the Vermont Center for 
3

Figure 1. Distribution of National Park units in the Northeast Temperate Network where breeding landbird 

monitoring protocols will be implemented and their associated Bird Conservation Regions.

Ecostudies (VCE) ‘Vermont Forest Bird Monitoring Program’, a regional landbird monitoring 

project initiated in 1989 (see Faccio et al. 1998). This will allow data from some network parks 

(MABI, SAGA, and SARA) to be combined with data from the VCE’s 28 Vermont study sites for 

more powerful estimates of population trends, thus providing an opportunity to make inferences 

related to changes beyond park boundaries.

Data from NETN parks can also be compared with data collected by GLKN and the USFWS in order 

to explore regional trends. With that in mind, the protocol described here addresses the following 

specific, measurable monitoring objectives:

Objective 1: Determine long-term trends in species composition of native and non-native 

landbirds in dominant, forest matrix habitat during the breeding season at 11 NETN parks 

(listed above). The focus will be on forest and woodland sampling, except at SARA, where 

grasslands will also be sampled; potential species, listed by park, can be found in Appendix 

A.
4

Objective 2: Determine changes in relative abundance of:

a) the 10 most commonly detected species at each park; and

b) the combined suite of PIF Priority Species at each park, as determined by BCR.

For each of these species groups, the sampling objective is to be able to detect a minimum 

5% annual population change over 10 years with at least 50% power at each park.

Objective 3: Provide correlational data that will be used to improve our understanding of 

breeding landbird/habitat relationships and the effects that management actions, such as 

silvicultural practices, mowing regimes, invasive plant controls, etc., may have on landbird 

occupancy and relative abundance. Where sufficient data exist, periodic analyses will 

correlate changes in landbird communities with site-specific information about park 

management activities (e.g., silvicultural treatments, timing of mowing, and exotic species 

management) and with changes in habitat metrics collected at co-located forest condition 

plots (see SOP-7 Data Analysis).
5

Sampling Design

Introduction

Numerous sampling approaches have been used to quantify the status and trends of breeding landbird

populations and many different monitoring programs are currently in place throughout North 

America to determine local, regional, or national trends in bird numbers. Most survey methods allow 

simultaneous collection of information about species that share a common life history or habitat type, 

but no single method will adequately sample either the diversity of habitats that birds occupy, or life 

history groups such as seabirds, songbirds, raptors, and shorebirds.

The sampling design described in this protocol involves a series of point count stations laid out on a 

systematic grid that is sampled during 10-minute point counts. For landbirds, point counts are the 

most widely used quantitative method of monitoring populations (Ralph et al. 1995). This technique 

involves using a standardized methodology to record all birds seen or heard during a fixed amount of 

time at many widely spaced point count stations. Recently, many papers have suggested that 

unadjusted point counts do not provide accurate estimates of abundance or density (see overview by 

Thompson 2002) because some birds may not be detected due to: 1) observer variability (experience, 

hearing); 2) environmental factors (wind, vegetation); and/or 3) physical and behavioral aspects of 

birds (plumage coloration, singing rate). As a result, several methods have been advocated as a 

means for incorporating detection probabilities in order to adjust occupancy and abundance (or 

density) estimates derived from point counts. These include occupancy modeling (MacKenzie et al. 

2002, 2003), distance sampling (Buckland et al. 2001), removal models (Farnsworth et al. 2002), 

double observer sampling (Nichols et al. 2000), and double sampling (Bart and Earnst 2002). 

Occupancy models are robust, but they generally only predict species presence or absence instead of 

abundance. The estimated probability of occupancy can be used as an index of abundance or (with 

some assumptions) to develop estimated abundances (Royle and Nichols 2003), but it is often 

preferable to attempt to estimate abundance directly. Of the methods available for estimating 

abundance, double sampling and double observer sampling are both labor intensive. Use of either 

methodology in a large-scale volunteer-based bird monitoring program would result in significantly 

reduced sample sizes. In addition, removal models present problems because the simplifying 

assumption of equal probability of detection throughout a 10-minute count is rarely met, and models 

without this assumption require much more data (Mitchell and Donovan, in prep). 

The use of distance sampling also has its detractors due to difficulty in meeting the assumptions of 

this method (e.g., Bart et al. 2004) and recent papers suggesting that most observers cannot estimate 

distance accurately (Alldredge et al. 2007, Simons et al. 2007). Since each method outlined above 

has its short-comings and detractors, there may not be a “best” method of calculating detection 

probabilities for purposes of avian monitoring in NETN parks. This protocol collects data in a way 

that allows for removal modeling, distance sampling, and occupancy modeling, while trying to keep 

the total amount of data collected reasonable for volunteer birders. 

As a means of evaluating both removal and distance modeling to determine if one of these methods 

should be dropped from the protocol, we compared the abundance estimates and 95% confidence 
6

intervals produced by both approaches using data from the first 2 years of monitoring at NETN parks 

(2006-2007). Results showed strong overlap in several of the 95% confidence intervals, improving 

our confidence that we have accurately estimated the number of individuals in the vicinity of our 

point count stations (Mitchell et al. 2008). Therefore, both modeling approaches will be used to 

adjust data for detection probability prior to testing for temporal trends in species abundance.

In distance sampling, the horizontal distance from the observer is estimated for each bird seen or 

heard during the count period. However, accurately estimating distance is difficult when neither the 

bird nor its location can be seen, which is common in forested habitats of the Northeast. Although 

training and experience help, the volume of sound produced by a singing bird is highly variable, and 

can be dramatically affected by the bird’s singing position, as well as site-specific characteristics 

including vegetation density and topography. Thus, training at one or a few locations may lead to 

more accurate distance estimates at those sites, but not at others (Bart et al. 2004). Therefore, when 

the majority of detections are of unseen birds, it is preferable to collect data in distance groups or 

“bands” rather than estimating exact distances (Rosenstock et al. 2002). With distance bands, the 

assumption concerning measuring accuracy is relaxed and the observations need only to be placed 

into the correct distance band (Buckland et al. 1993), greatly increasing accuracy and consistency 

among and within observers (Rosenstock et al. 2002). For the protocol described here, bird detections 

will be placed into four distance bands; 0–10 m, > 10–25 m, > 25–50 m, and > 50 m. Additionally, 

each 10-minute point count will be divided into 1-minute listening periods, and observers will record 

the minute in which they heard each bird. This will facilitate analysis by removal modeling using five 

2-minute time intervals. Removal models use the decreasing numbers of new birds counted in each 

time interval to estimate the number of birds missed during the count (Moore et al. 2004). Collecting 

time of first detection data will also enable us to group the data for direct comparisons to other 

monitoring programs using 3-minute or 5-minute point counts, such as the North American Breeding 

Bird Survey (BBS).

In order to compute reliable detection probabilities and correct for the abilities of individual 

observers, 80-100 detections per observer for each species are needed (Bibby et al. 1998). It is 

possible to calculate estimates from smaller samples, but these will be less precise. Furthermore,

while it is possible to pool data from multiple surveys to obtain adequate sample sizes for 

development of these detection functions, resulting estimates may still be an unreliable measure of 

differences in the actual number of birds present. However, it is still valuable to collect the data, and 

pooling of data over time or across observers with similar skill levels may allow certain limited 

analyses. Interpretation of survey data requires sensitivity to these extra-statistical limitations of the 

estimation procedures. Additionally, the distance categories will be important covariates in 

occupancy and removal modeling analyses, which do not require absolute accuracy in distance 

estimation.

Site Selection

Point count stations are selected as described in SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count 

Stations. In locating point count stations, four basic criteria were established: 1) point count stations 

must be spaced approximately 250 m apart to avoid duplicate sampling while permitting observers to 
7

move efficiently between points; 2) points must be located at least 50 m from forest edges in order to 

maximize sampling effort on focal species and avoid fragmentation effects; 3) points must be located 

within the dominant, mature forest cover types found in each park; and 4) at least one long-term 

forest vegetation monitoring plot (see Tierney et al. 2009) per study site must be co-located within 50 

m of a point count station (and within the same broad vegetation type, such as deciduous forest) so 

that future changes in breeding landbird populations can be compared with broad changes to forest 

structure, composition, and other variables. A “study site” is defined as a group of point count 

stations that was stratified by general forest cover type into a discrete sampling unit, each consisting

of 3 - 12 points depending on park size and the spatial configuration of major habitats within each 

park.

Precise co-location of breeding landbird point count stations and forest vegetation plots must be 

avoided to reduce trampling of vegetation due to multiple visits to the same point. In addition, point 

count stations should be located at least 15 m away from hiking trails and interpretive signs, and at 

least 50 m from park boundaries, roads, buildings, and other areas frequented by the public. To meet 

these criteria, point count stations were selected in three ways. 

Judgment Sampling Frame: At SAIR, the small size of the park prevented us from using a statistical 

sampling approach. Two point stations separated by 250 m were established along the Saugus River 

and within the park boundary in consultation with the park’s resource manager. A third station was 

established between the two in order to provide a chance to record additional species, although most 

analyses will exclude this point due to the potential for double-counting individuals recorded at the 

two other points. At MIMA, the park staff requested a grassland site in 2011. Six point count stations 

were established in 2012 using expert judgment due to the small size of the MIMA grassland patches.

Systematic Grid Sampling Frame: Point count stations for nine parks (MABI, MIMA forested 

habitat, MORR, ROVA sites, SAGA, SARA, and WEFA) were selected by first overlaying a 250-m 

grid onto park boundaries, vegetation types, forest vegetation sampling plots, and other data layers in 

ArcGIS 9.2. Point counts were then selected at grid intersections that occurred within mature forest 

habitat. In some cases, points were moved slightly (ca. 10 - 50 m) in order to avoid park trails, 

boundaries, steep slopes, wetlands, and other sensitive or otherwise inaccessible habitat features, or 

to co-locate points within 50 m of long-term forest vegetation sampling plots. Groups of point count

stations were then stratified by general forest cover type into discrete study sites, each consisting of 5 

- 12 points depending on park size and the spatial configuration of major habitats within each park. 

Smaller habitat patches that could not accommodate at least five point count stations were excluded 

from the sampling frame. At SARA, three study sites were also established within grasslands in 2006 

since this habitat type represents a significant component of the natural communities at that park.

ACAD Sampling Frame: A sampling frame based solely on a systematic grid was deemed 

inappropriate for ACAD due to the amount of forested habitat (ca. 13,000 ha) and excessively steep 

terrain which can be difficult and often dangerous for volunteers to access. Therefore, our sampling 

frame for the park was defined in ArcGIS 9.2 by first identifying areas of the park within 1.5 km of

roads and with slopes less than 30% (Figure 2). We then overlaid the long-term forest vegetation 
8

Figure 2. Sampling frame for Acadia NP; blue shaded areas are within 1.5 km of roads and have slopes 

less than 30%.

sampling plots, which were selected using the Generalized Random Tesselation Stratified (GRTS) 

algorithm (Stevens 1997, Stevens and Olsen 2004) and identified those that fell within large blocks 

(> 100 ha) of contiguous habitat. Habitat was contiguous if adjacent polygons were within the same 

broad habitat class (e.g., upland coniferous forest), based on the phys_hydr field on the park 

vegetation map. Beginning with the lowest-numbered site (as determined by the GRTS algorithm), 

we established point count stations around the forest vegetation plots. A central point count station 

was offset from the forest vegetation plot by 50 m towards the center of the forest patch (or in a 

direction to make it possible to establish four sites near the vegetation plot), and additional point 

count stations were placed on a regular 250-m grid to be as close as possible to the vegetation plot. A 

minimum of five point count stations and a maximum of 10 were established around at least one 

vegetation plot, and points were located > 15 m from a road or trail. Points that fell within a different 

habitat type (as defined by the phys_hydr field of the park vegetation map) were excluded. This 
9

approach at ACAD generates a cluster of point count stations near a central, randomly selected 

station that is co-located with a forest vegetation plot.

Sample Sizes

Whenever possible, study sites will consist of 10 point count stations in order to maximize the 

amount of data collected per volunteer visit. The number of point count stations per park varies, 

primarily depending upon park size and amount of forested habitat (Table 1), but at ACAD the 

number of stations is also affected by the availability of suitable volunteers. In order to reach the 

target number of point count stations, additional points can be added at ACAD in the future should 

the pool of volunteers be larger than anticipated. Because this protocol relies on the participation of 

volunteers, it is likely that in some years not all study sites will be surveyed. The Project Manager 

will make every effort to ensure that sufficient numbers of volunteers are recruited and retained to 

meet the needs of the program, but it is important to recognize that reliance on volunteers will result 

in occasional data gaps if volunteers drop out of the program without surveying their assigned site.

Population Being Monitored

Sampling will be limited to the breeding season of migratory landbirds (mid - May through late -

June, depending on latitude), and will include those species that may potentially breed in the park 

(see Appendix A). Thus, the population being sampled includes breeding landbird species within the 

park boundary that use large blocks of forested habitat (plus grasslands at MIMA and SARA) and are 

present during the time that the survey is being conducted. At ACAD, the sampled population is 

further limited to sites that are within 1.5 km of a road and that have slopes below 30%. At SAIR, in 

addition to breeding landbirds the population being sampled includes marsh birds and water birds 

that can be detected from the three point count stations.

Table 1. Area of forested habitat (and grassland habitat at SARA and MIMA), and number of point count

stations and study sites established at NETN parks. For ACAD, numbers in parenthesis indicated the 

target number of points and sites.

NETN Park Forested Habitat 

(ha)

Number of Point 

Count Stations 

Established

Number of Study 

Sites Established

Acadia NP 12,876 44 (120) 6 (12-15)

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP 197 25 3

Minute Man NHP - Forest 325 27 3

- Grassland 72 6 1

- Total 397 33 4

Morristown NHP 465 30 3

Roosevelt-Vanderbilt NHP 192 30 3

Saint-Gaudens NHS 43 5 1

Saratoga NHP - Forest 860 30 3

- Grassland 325 25 3

- Total 1,185 55 6

Saugus Iron Works -- 3 1

Weir Farm NHS 21 5 1
10

Sampling Frequency and Replication

For reducing within-year variability, studies indicate that sampling multiple point count stations 

within a site is preferable to repeat visits to a single station (Link et al. 1994, Carlson and 

Schmiegelow 2002). In addition, variability is further reduced by limiting the number of observers 

conducting surveys. Therefore, each study site will be surveyed at least once annually, and volunteer 

observers will be encouraged to survey two study sites each. In addition, one or two follow-up, 

replicate surveys within two weeks of the initial visit will be encouraged, but not required. The 

exception to this will be at the three smallest NETN parks (SAGA, SAIR and WEFA), which can 

only accommodate one study site each. In order to reduce within-year variability at these parks, study 

sites will be surveyed twice annually, with replicates occurring about 7 - 14 days apart. In order to 

keep the effect of time of day consistent for each point, study sites will be surveyed in the same order 

each time (e.g., the order in which point counts are surveyed will never be reversed). While more 

repeat visits would clearly enhance this monitoring protocol, this sampling design does allow for

estimation of the probability of detection for each species via removal, distance, and occupancy 

modeling approaches. Requiring volunteers to sample on more days, even with decreased numbers of 

points per sample, would make it harder to recruit and keep volunteers.

It is important to recognize the significance of maintaining observer consistency and continuity 

across survey years. The precision of population trends derived from data collected using this 

monitoring protocol will be increased if the same observer conducts the same survey(s) consistently 

each year for as many years as possible (Bart et al. 2004). Changes in observers or missed survey 

years reduce the precision, and therefore utility, of the data. In addition, because changes in observers 

are inevitable, NETN, GLKN, and the USFWS are actively supporting a web-based birder 

certification tool that should provide a consistent evaluation of observer skills.

To provide a degree of quality control (QC) on volunteer observers, three volunteers will be asked to 

record their point counts each year (SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings). A professional 

biologist highly skilled in both bird identification and point count protocols will review the 

recordings and assess the quality of the volunteer data. This approach, while not as good as a second 

observer, is less expensive and logistically simpler than sending a skilled observer into the field with 

a volunteer. 

Power of Monitoring Protocol to Detect Change

Due to the relatively small size of most NETN parks and limited number of volunteer observers 

available at larger parks such as ACAD, this protocol is not expected to have sufficient power to 

detect trends in population size for more than a few individual abundant species. However, by 

aggregating data into species groupings, such as guilds or PIF priority species, our goal is to be able 

to detect a 5% annual population change at individual parks over 10 years with at least 50% power. 

We also intend to supplement the point count data collected through this protocol with additional 

data (e.g., eBird sightings within parks and data from Vermont’s Forest Bird Monitoring Program) to 

gain a better understanding of trends for individual species.

Using the freeware program MONITOR (Gibbs 1995) and pilot data from the NETN 2006 and 2007 

field seasons at 10 of the 11 parks (SAIR was not surveyed until 2008), we estimated the power of 
11

the monitoring protocol to detect -10%, -5%, 5%, and 10% population changes over five time periods 

(5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years) for each of the 10 most abundant species in each park, as well as for any 

PIF priority species. The analysis was conducted assuming a linear trend and using 1000 iterations, a

two-tailed test, and an alpha level of 0.10. In addition, we estimated the power of the monitoring 

program to detect changes in species composition, using the Shannon diversity index, for four groups 

of species: interior forest specialists, residents, single-brooded species, and PIF priority species. 

Because MONITOR requires multiple observations within each year, the multiple points at each park 

were used for the Shannon diversity analysis. Therefore, the mean Shannon index was the mean of 

the Shannon indices for each of the points within a park. At parks where there were multiple study

sites, the power analyses were conducted in two ways: 1) treating the whole park as one site, and 2) 

treating each study site as its own site and weighting those data accordingly. This resulted in more 

precise estimates and lower coefficients of variation (CVs), so the analysis was conducted using 

alpha levels of both 0.05 and 0.10 and annual Shannon diversity changes of 1%, 2%, 3%, 5%, and 

10% (both increases and decreases) over the same five time periods as above. For the species 

groupings, the analysis was conducted using an alpha level of 0.05 and the same population changes 

as the Shannon analysis over 10 and 20 years.

Power Analysis Results

Individual Species: As expected, the protocol’s power to detect population changes of individual 

species was quite low. For many species with low and moderate to high CVs, the power to detect a 

10% annual change over 25 years was at least 40% (Figure 3). For all but the most abundant species 

with low CVs (e.g., Ovenbird, Red-eyed Vireo, etc.), the power to detect a 10% change over 25 years 

was less than 80%. However, these results varied depending on the number of individuals detected 

and their variance between point counts within a park, sometimes resulting in reduced power, 

especially for species with relatively high CVs. It is important to note that for species detected at 

rates of 0.40 birds per point or less, results were unreliable (power decreased as time span increased);

so power to detect population changes for rare species was not calculated.

Species Groups: The protocol’s power to detect changes in groups or guilds of species was 

significantly greater than for individual species. The goal stated above (detecting a 5% annual change

over 10 years with 50% power) was met for all guilds with the exception of two (PIF priority and 

interior forest species) at parks with 5-7 point count stations, and PIF priority species at parks with 

10-12 point count stations (Figure 4). In these cases, mean birds per point was low and CVs were 

relatively high. After 20 years of monitoring, a 2% annual change could be detected with at least 

50% power for all guilds, with the exception of PIF priority species at parks with fewer than 12 

points (Figure 4). At parks with 25-28 point count stations, power for all guilds was quite high, with 

nearly 70% power to detect a 3% annual change over 10 years.

Shannon diversity: The power to detect change in the Shannon diversity indices at each park was 

similar to that for species guilds. At each park, using an alpha of 0.05, a 5% annual change in the 

Shannon index could be detected over 10 years with at least 40% power, while a 10% annual change 

could be detected with at least 74% power (Table 2). Power to detect a 3% annual change dropped 

off considerably, although it remained high for 10 forest point counts at SARA.
12

Because NETN park data are being incorporated into the Vermont Forest Bird Monitoring Program 

(FBMP), and the data are also compatible with GLKN and USFWS data, power to detect regional 

population trends can be improved in some cases. As an example, for three NETN parks in or near 

Vermont (MABI, SAGA, SARA), combining data with those from FBMP sites will increase sample 

sizes and reduce CVs for many species, thereby increasing power. 

Table 2. Power to detect 3%, 5%, and 10% declines in the Shannon diversity index at each NETN park 

over 10 years using an alpha of 0.05. The power to detect increases was always equal to or greater than 

the power to detect decreases.

Park

Points 

Surveyed

Power

-10% -5% -3%

WEFA 5 0.994 0.785 0.446

VAMA 7 0.869 0.482 0.241

SAGA 8 0.743 0.411 0.241

SARA-Forest 10 1.000 0.993 0.821

ELRO 11 0.974 0.681 0.365

HOFR 12 0.879 0.482 0.250

MORR 19 0.995 0.809 0.469

MIMA 23 0.941 0.596 0.304

MABI 25 0.971 0.674 0.352

SARA-Grassland 25 0.975 0.662 0.348

ACAD 28 0.785 0.408 0.203
13

Figure 1. Power to detect 5% and 10% population increases and decreases over 25 years for species 

with low and high CVs at sites with 5 - 7 point count locations (top), 10 - 12 point count locations (middle), 

and 25 - 28 point count locations (bottom). Results based on 2006/2007 pilot data analyzed using 

program MONITOR. Note that power to detect a 10% population decline over 25 years was less than 

70% in all cases, with the exception of study sites with 25 - 28 point count stations and species with low 

CVs.

5-7 Survey Points

Low CV (0.537) - White-breasted Nuthatch

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power

-10%

-5%

5%

10%

5-7 Survey Points

 High CV (0.756) - Northern Cardinal

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power

10-12 Survey Points 

Low CV (0.663) - Tufted Titmouse

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power

-10%

-5%

5%

10%

10-12 Survey Points 

High CV (1.132) - Wood Thrush

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power

25-28 Survey Points 

Low CV (0.481) - Red-eyed Vireo

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power

-10%

-5%

5%

10%

25-28 Survey Points 

High CV (0.912) - Black-throated Green Warbler

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

5 10 15 20 25

Years

Power
14

Figure 2. Power to detect 1 - 10% annual declines of four guilds based on number of point count stations

over two time periods (10 and 20 years). Results based on 2006/2007 pilot data analyzed using program 

MONITOR. Note that bottom charts are for grassland surveys at SARA, and that annual increases (not 

shown) were always detected with equal or higher power than declines.

 5-7 Survey Points

10 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

 5-7 Survey Points

20 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

Interior Forest

PIF Priority

Resident

Single-Brooded

10-12 Survey Points

10 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

10-12 Survey Points

20 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

Interior Forest

PIF Priority

Resident

Single-Brooded

25-28 Survey Points

10 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

25-28 Survey Points

20 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

Interior Forest

PIF Priority

Resident

Single-Brooded

SARA Grassland (25 Survey Points)

10 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

SARA Grassland (25 Survey Points)

20 Years

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1 2 3 5 10

Annual Decline (%)

Power

PIF Priority

Resident

Single-Brooded
15

Field Methods

Field Schedule and Preparations

The monitoring described in this protocol is implemented annually during June, although late-May 

surveys are suitable at MORR and WEFA. The ability to successfully complete the annual 

monitoring will hinge on thorough advance preparation. Because this is a volunteer-based monitoring 

program, the most important preparation is ensuring that skilled volunteer personnel are trained and 

available to accomplish the field work. Volunteer recruitment and training will be coordinated by the 

Project Manager with support from available staff at individual NETN parks, preferably a Resource 

Manager or Park Ranger familiar with park resources and the local birding community. Volunteers 

will need to be recruited well in advance of the field season, and survey materials and protocols 

mailed during the month prior to the start of the field season. In addition, any research permits or 

clearances necessary to gain access to park grounds during early morning hours (ca. 0400 - 0430) 

must be arranged (see SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics).

Sampling Methods

Permanent point count stations will be located as identified above (see Site Selection) and marked 

with aluminum tree tags and blue flagging so they can be easily located by volunteer observers. 

Starting in 2007, several study sites at ACAD were marked with aluminum trail markers and “fire 

tacks” to aid navigation by volunteer observers. These more permanent markings were expanded to 

other parks in 2012. SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations provides details about 

locating and marking point count stations, and SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point 

Counts provides detailed instructions on the procedures for counting breeding landbirds and 

examples of completed data sheets. 

End of Season Procedures

After the field data is collected, the Project Manager will follow up with volunteers to ensure they 

enter their data on-line in a timely manner. He or she will also perform quality assurance and quality 

control (QA/QC) checks of the data, comparing field mapping cards with data coding sheets, and 

data coding sheets with the database. The biologist will also follow up with volunteers and park staff 

to thank them for their support, and to provide summaries of data when they are available.

17

Data Management

Overview of Database Design

Breeding landbird monitoring data will be archived into the Bird Point Count Database that is part of 

the Avian Knowledge Network (AKN) and managed by Point Blue 

(http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/index.php). This web-based, publicly accessible, and 

searchable repository for point count data collected in North America is a collaborative project 

between the USFWS, the NPS, the American Bird Conservancy, and Point Blue. Requests for NETN 

breeding landbird monitoring data should be directed to either the Project Manager 

(sfaccio@vtecostudies.org) or the NETN Data Manager (Adam_Kozlowski@nps.gov). Each request 

will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and any data on sensitive species (as defined by each park’s 

Resource Manager) will be removed before data are provided.

Data Entry and Verification

Data are entered into the Bird Point Count Database via an online data entry system that allows 

volunteer observers to enter data once they have created a user account and been assigned to the 

NETN landbird monitoring project. Only the Project Manager and NETN Data Manager have the

ability to edit data once they have been entered. Data are coded as “raw” in the database and will not 

show in the public search area until the Project Manager reviews data and marks them as “available.” 

Data verification is necessary to ensure that values recorded on the field form and keyed into the 

database are correctly entered (i.e., the entered value is the “correct” value). Evaluating postacquisition data is a potentially difficult but necessary task, regardless of the data source. Several 

steps are taken during and after data entry to verify that data are correct and logical, including:

• Visual review at data entry: At time of transcription, volunteers are asked to carefully 

compare the date, time, species, and observation codes recorded on the Field Mapping Card 

with those transcribed onto the Data Coding Sheet to make sure they are consistent. In 

addition, they are asked to verify each record after input into the database and immediately 

correct any errors;

• Visual review after data entry: Data entered into the database are compared visually to the 

original records; discrepancies are identified and reconciled by the Project Manager once the 

original data sheets have been received. Only then will data be marked as “available” in the 

Bird Point Count Database.

Additionally, the database entry form itself has features that reduce data entry errors. These include 

dropdown menus for site name, observer, and species and observation codes. For more detailed 

information on data flow and data management roles and responsibilities, See SOP 7 – Data 

Management. 
18

Data Archiving

After data QA/QC, completed original data forms will be sent to the NETN office each year. NETN 

will maintain at least five years of data in the network office; older data sheets will be periodically 

archived. Data sheets will also be scanned and uploaded to irma.nps.gov as pdf files.
19

Data Analysis

Data Summaries and Statistical Analysis

For each park, annual summaries of breeding landbird monitoring data will consist of relatively 

simple statistical tabulations providing a “snapshot” of the avian community. At SARA and MIMA, 

grassland and forested habitats will be summarized separately. Annual results will also be compared 

to the mean values of previous years in order to gauge whether they are above or below “normal.” 

Data summaries will consist of the following metrics: total abundance, species richness, species 

diversity (Shannon-Wiener index), relative abundance, and frequency of occurrence (Table 3). These 

metrics will be calculated for each study site and each park (at SARA and MIMA, forest and 

grassland sites will be reported separately). Results for both total abundance and species richness 

metrics will also be broken down into native/non-native and resident/migrant categories. In addition, 

after three years of data collection, annual time series graphs of relative abundance by year will be 

plotted for the 10 most abundant species at each park and for PIF priority species as determined by 

BCR (see Appendix A). 

Periodically, perhaps every 5-10 years depending on perceived need and funding, a more detailed 

analysis will be conducted that will include estimates of population densities and trends, focusing on 

the most abundant species and those of management or conservation concern (i.e., the PIF priority 

species). Such an analysis will involve more sophisticated statistical modeling, and may include 

procedures such as estimating equations (Link and Sauer 1994), repeated measures ANOVA, 

hierarchical modeling, and methods for detecting non-linearities in trend data (e.g., piece-wise linear 

regression or Bayesian change-point analysis). In addition, volunteer surveys will be compared with 

duplicate QC surveys conducted on a rotating basis at the same points by a professional biologist to 

identify discrepancies and model observer effects.

Table 3. Breeding landbird monitoring metrics and calculations from raw data.

Metric

Variable 

Type Units Calculation

Total Abundance Index Mean number of 

individuals/point

Total number of individuals of all species/total 

number of point count stations surveyed

Species Richness Index Number of species Sum of all species detected

Species Diversity

(Shannon-Wiener)

Index NA ∑=

−

n

i

i i p p 1

ln( )

where pi = proportion of the total abundance for 

the ith species, n = species richness, and ln = 

natural log.

Species Relative 

Abundance

Index Number of 

individuals/point

Number of individuals of a given species/number 

of points surveyed

Frequency of 

Occurrence

Percent % of points where the 

species was detected

Number of points on which species was 

detected/total number of points surveyed

Data will be adjusted for detection probabilities using occupancy modeling, removal modeling, 

distance sampling, or other appropriate methods. Population trend analyses will likely compare 

trends from NETN parks to those produced by the BBS or other regional programs such as the VCE 
20

FBMP or USFWS bird monitoring efforts which use similar point count methodologies. 

Additionally, in order to produce more robust estimates of trend, species may be grouped into 

habitat/foraging guilds and network parks may be grouped together by BCR, forest ecosystem, or 

other biologically appropriate groupings. The specific analyses will vary by park in order to make 

maximum use of the variations in sampling design across the network. In general, occupancy and 

removal analyses will use a “robust design” approach, where there are multiple seasons (or years) 

and multiple visits during a season (visits may be repeat visits to the same point count station or 

visits to multiple spatially distinct point count stations within a site).

Estimates of population densities that adjust for detection probability will be derived from distance 

sampling methods using the program DISTANCE 5.0 (Thomas et al. 2005), and/or using removal 

modeling methods in the program MARK (Moore et al. 2004). Because a minimum of 80-100

detections of each species per observer are needed in order to calculate detection probabilities (and 

particular observer effect on detection probability) with sufficient precision, several years of data 

collection will be needed for all but the most common species. The tradeoff between precision of 

estimates and the ability to detect trends in a reasonable length of time will need to be carefully 

evaluated. Once these detection minimums have been accumulated, data will be input into 

DISTANCE and analyzed to estimate species density per unit area and effective detection radius 

(EDR). The EDR is the distance from the observer beyond which the number of birds missed equals 

the number detected within the EDR. Comparisons of EDR values between species and habitats may 

justify combining data from different sites in order to increase sample size and produce more precise 

population estimates. 

Explanatory variables for statistical modeling effort will come from a variety of sources, including 

long-term weather data from nearby meteorological stations, forest monitoring data, information 

provided by the parks on ongoing management activities, as well as landscape level data such as road 

density, forest fragmentation, etc. Table 4 includes metrics that could be useful in helping to explain 

breeding landbird/habitat relationships and how management activities at NETN parks may affect 

breeding landbird populations. At NETN parks where any of these management activities are 

practiced or environmental sampling occurs, it would be useful to collect the metrics listed, 

document the procedures, and archive the data. NETN is developing an SOP to govern collection of 

ancillary data from the parks, which will be included or referenced in this protocol once developed.

This protocol is not designed to test for the effects of management activities or other variables 

occurring at a scale smaller than the park as a whole; the main objective is species and community

trend information. The correlational analyses for Objective 3 will be park-wide at most NETN parks; 

we will use data from multiple vegetation plots in the same habitat type as the breeding landbird 

counts, and we will use data from multiple count stations to look broadly at whether trends in forest 

data are correlated with the breeding landbird data. Smith et al. (2008) discuss why it is impractical 

to sample a small vegetation plot near or at a point count station, since the birds are using a very 

different scale. Using a larger area that encompasses multiple forest plots and breeding landbird point 

count sites will produce a more reliable match of spatial scales, and may also allow us to incorporate 

spatial variability into the analysis (since many breeding landbirds prefer habitat variation). Ideally,
21

there would be 3 - 4 forest plots within every point count radius (about 200 m), but such an intensive 

vegetation monitoring effort is beyond NETN’s resources. We believe that having multiple forest 

plots within the radius of point count stations within each site is a good compromise, and this occurs 

naturally from the sampling designs of the two protocols. The exception will be ACAD, where there 

is a much lower density of forest plots and very localized breeding landbird survey sites; in this case 

we acknowledge that any effort to correlate breeding landbird data with forest data will be somewhat 

weak.

Table 4. Specific metrics of various explanatory variables that may be used in statistical modeling efforts 

to better understand effects on breeding landbird populations.

Explanatory Variable Specific Metrics

Mowing/brush hogging Locations, schedule, frequency, cutting height, whether hay is removed or left

Invasive plant control Locations, methods used (including type of herbicide), schedule (when, how often), 

target species, intensity (a few plants or widespread), structural level 

(tree/shrub/herb)

Animal control Removals of cats, rats, mesopredators, dogs, beavers, humans (limits on activities 

in certain areas), forest pests and pathogens, mosquito control

Controlled burns Locations, schedule, frequency, intensity

Restoration activities Locations, methods, dates

Toxic cleanups Locations, methods, dates

Deer density estimates Methods, sampling dates and area covered

Silvicultural treatments Locations, methods, schedule, intensity of removal

Weather Precipitation, low/high/mean temperatures, wind, humidity

Acid deposition Wet deposition and soil sampling

Mercury data Wet deposition, soil, and biological sampling

Invertebrate surveys Index of prey abundance (especially lepidopteran larvae)

Landscape context TBD: The national I&M program is developing a protocol that will provide NETN with 

landscape context data for such analyses

23

Data Reporting

Ecological Integrity Assessment and Scorecard

The NETN I&M program recognizes the importance of effective communication and reporting to 

transform field data into a format that is both useful and clearly understood by park managers, 

scientists, the public, and policy makers. This will be accomplished by developing standard statistical 

summaries of vital sign measurements (see SOP 8 - Data Analysis), as well as developing an 

ecological integrity scorecard that provides basic interpretation of the status and trends for the 

breeding landbird vital sign. Following each field season, an annual report will be prepared 

summarizing the year’s work. This will include routine summaries for each measure at each sampled 

park and individual study sites. The measures will be presented in a general framework that reflects 

the underlying conceptual model that the vital signs and measures are based upon. Periodically, 

perhaps every 5 - 10 years depending on perceived need and funding, a more detailed analysis will be 

conducted that will include estimates of population densities and trends, focusing on the most 

abundant species and those of management or conservation concern (i.e., PIF priority species).

Forest Breeding Landbird Assessment

An assessment of the biotic integrity of the avian community based on an assemblage of behavioral 

and physiological response guilds (Table 5), similar to O’Connell et al. (2000), will be utilized for 

forest breeding landbirds (an assessment and scorecard ranking for the grassland breeding landbird 

community at SARA and MIMA is discussed below). Such a biotic integrity scorecard will help 

elucidate changes in a broader, landscape context and indicate in which direction the park may be 

moving along a disturbance gradient from “highly disturbed” or “urban,” to “pristine” or “natural.” 

Croonquist and Brooks (1991) demonstrated that response guilds (groups of species that require 

similar habitat, food, or other elements for survival) are effective indicators of habitat disturbance. 

Changes in availability of specific resources are manifested as population responses in the species 

dependant on that resource. For example, the loss of snags in a forest stand can result in the decrease 

in the guild of bark-probing insectivores. As O’Connell et al. (2000) indicate, an assessment of 

response guilds functions like an index of biotic integrity (Karr 1991, Karr and Chu 1999), providing 

a system-specific framework in which species assemblages can be ranked on a qualitative scale. This 

type of avian integrity assessment provides a means to estimate condition that, unlike species 

richness or Shannon diversity, is not confounded by intermediate levels of disturbance as 

demonstrated by Blair (1996).

The guild-based avian integrity scorecard is based upon O’Connell et al. (2000) and consists of 13 

guilds in eight guild categories (Table S9.2, SOP 9 - Data Reporting). Individual guilds were broadly 

categorized as “specialist” or “generalist.” A specialist can be a species with a narrow range of 

habitat tolerances, or one that exhibits a low intrinsic rate of population increase. For our purposes, 

specialist guilds may be thought of as “guilds indicative of a high-integrity ecological condition”

while generalist guilds are “guilds indicative of a low-integrity ecological condition.” Guilds were 

selected to reflect different aspects of each species’ life history traits. Therefore, species may belong 

to several guilds simultaneously, including both specialist and generalist guilds.
24

Table 5. Biotic integrity elements, guild categories, response guilds, and guild interpretations used in 

avian biotic integrity scorecard.

Biotic Integrity 

Element Guild Category Response Guild Specialist Generalist

Functional Trophic Omnivore X

Functional Insectivore forager Bark prober X

Functional Insectivore forager Ground gleaner X

Functional Insectivore forager High Canopy forager X

Functional Insectivore forager Low Canopy forager X

Compositional Origin Exotic X

Compositional Migratory Resident X

Compositional Number of broods Single-brooded X

Compositional Population limiting Nest predator/brood 

parasite X

Structural Nest placement Canopy Nester X

Structural Nest placement Shrub Nester X

Structural Nest placement Forest-ground Nester X

Structural Primary habitat Interior Forest Obligate X

With species assigned to guilds (see SOP 9 - Data Reporting), the proportional species richness of 

each guild is calculated, resulting in a rank of Good, Caution, or Significant Concern (Table 6). 

“Good” represents acceptable or desired conditions; “Caution” indicates a problem may exist; 

“Significant Concern” indicates undesired conditions that may require management action. The 

proportional species richness is calculated as the number of species in the guild divided by the 

number of species in the breeding landbird community. Following O’Connell et al. (2000), the 

breeding landbird community is limited to species in five groups: Passeriformes (perching birds), 

Piciformes (woodpeckers), Cuculiformes (cuckoos), Apodiformes (swifts and hummingbirds), and 

Columbiformes (doves). For example, a breeding landbird community at a given park in which 20% 

of the species are omnivores receives a rank of “good” for the omnivore guild (Table 6). The 

proportional species richness thresholds and ranks are largely based on those derived by O’Connell et 

al. (2000) for birds in forested habitats in the central Appalachians, as well as from those derived by 

Glennon and Porter (2005) for New York’s Adirondack Park. Considering the wide geographic range 

over which the network parks are distributed, the threshold values listed in Table 6 may need to be 

adjusted by bioregion, forest type, or BCR, rather than network-wide. Additionally, these threshold 

values can be refined over time. The ratings’ threshold values also assume that all breeding landbirds 

present in each park are detected; this assumption will not necessarily hold true when only one year 

of data is analyzed. Park resource managers should not be concerned about the results of the avian 

integrity analysis unless several (more than 3) guilds are rated “Significant Concern” for multiple 

years of data.

Some ecological integrity reporting efforts have developed point-based indices to aggregate 

information describing integrity of individual metrics into overall ecosystem scores (Karr 1981, 

O’Connell et al. 2000). The success of those efforts relies upon a subjective understanding of the 

relative importance of individual metrics in determining overall ecosystem integrity, and in some 
25

cases may obscure individual ecosystem components that are in need of attention. Thus, this avian 

integrity scorecard attempts to concisely convey information on each individual response guild 

metric, and provide summary information only on the number of metrics classified as “good”, 

Table 6. Avian ecological integrity thresholds for 13 response guilds (based on O’Connell et al. 2000, and 

Glennon and Porter 2005). Percentages are proportional species richness.

Biotic Integrity 

Element Response Guild 

Ratings (% Species Richness)

 Good Caution

 

Significant

 Concern

Functional Omnivore < 30% 30-50% > 50%

Bark Prober > 11% 4-11% < 4%

Ground Gleaner > 9% 4-9% < 4%

High Canopy Forager > 12% 7-12% < 7%

Low Canopy Forager > 22% 14-22% < 14%

Compositional Exotic < 0.5% 0.5-7% > 7%

Resident < 28% 28-41% > 41%

Single-brooded > 68% 50-68% < 50%

Nest Predator/Brood Parasite < 10% 10-15% > 15%

Structural Canopy Nester > 35% 29-35% < 29%

Shrub Nester < 18% 18-24% > 24%

Forest-ground Nester > 18% 5-18% < 5%

Interior Forest Obligate > 35% 10-35% < 10%

“caution”, and “significant concern” in each park. We recognize that NPS may need to aggregate this 

information at higher levels (such as by Vital Sign) for reporting at the national level. For that reason, 

this scorecard adheres to NPS Vital Signs reporting conventions, and should provide NPS with the 

necessary information for aggregation. We also recognize that the scorecard is based on ecological 

criteria, and that park management goals may not seek to attain “ecological integrity”. It would be 

possible to develop a management scorecard in concert with park staff that reflects park progress 

towards avian and ecological management goals.

Grassland Breeding Landbird Assessment

The integrity of the grassland breeding landbird community at SARA and MIMA will be assessed 

with metrics based on the abundance and proportional richness of grassland obligate species, shrubdependant species, edge generalist species, and exotics (Table 7). The calculations use the same 

methods as the forest breeding landbird assessment, except that two raptors are included in the 

grassland obligate guild. In addition, for both the grassland and shrubland groups, we will report the 

proportion of PIF priority species for BCR 13 that are detected out of the total number of PIF priority

species for each group (e.g., the number of PIF Priority grassland species detected divided by the 

total number of PIF priority grassland species). This will help us measure the overall value of 

grassland and early successional communities at SARA to rare or declining species that are 

dependent on these habitats within the region (see Table S9.3 in SOP 9 - Data Reporting). The 
26

threshold values for these metrics were determined from Browder et al. (2002) and Coppedge et al. 

(2006), and using data from the pilot season of grassland surveys at SARA. These values may be 

refined over time as additional regional and park-specific data are accumulated and analyzed.

Table 7. Avian scorecard metrics for grassland breeding landbird surveys at SARA.

Ratings (Abundance or % Species Richness)

 Good Caution Significant 

Metric Concern

Abundance (birds/point)

 Edge generalist species < 15.0 15.0-30.0 > 30.0

 Shrub-dependant species < 1.0 1.0-5.0 > 5.0

 Grassland obligate species > 4.0 1.5-4.0 < 1.5

 Exotic species < 0.1 0.1-1.0 > 1.0

Proportional Species Richness (%)

 Edge generalist species < 35 35-70 > 70

 Shrub-dependant species < 10 10-25 > 25

 Grassland obligate species > 10 5-10 < 5

 Exotic species < 0.1 0.1-3 > 3

 Proportion of PIF Priority Grassland Species > 70 50-70 < 50

 Proportion of PIF Priority Shrubland Species > 75 50-75 < 50
27

Personnel Requirements and Training

Roles and Responsibilities

The Project Manager, typically hired through a competitive contract, will coordinate the volunteerbased breeding landbird monitoring program. Coordination will involve contacting resource 

managers at NETN parks to discuss the role that they want to play in the program. The Project

Manager will take the lead in advertising and recruiting for volunteers, and will welcome support 

from park resource managers or volunteer coordinators with knowledge of potential participants. 

Other coordination activities will include evaluating volunteers to ensure they have the skill level 

needed to identify breeding landbirds by sight and sound; providing training materials, data sheets, 

and other equipment (e.g., timers, clipboards); responding to volunteer concerns; and soliciting 

feedback from the volunteers on the protocol. The Project Manager will also be responsible for either 

conducting the annual duplicate QC survey if time allows, or hiring a qualified field technician to 

conduct the survey. The Project Manager and NETN will work together to ensure that there is 

sufficient follow-up with volunteers, including initiating a volunteer appreciation program. For 

additional information, see SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers. 

At each NETN park, the resource manager or other designated staff will provide support to volunteer 

observers on park-specific issues, such as access, trail or area closures, rare species documentation, 

etc. At ACAD, the NETN Plant Ecologist will also provide logistical support.

All staff are responsible for ensuring that monitoring is conducted as safely as possible. Any safety 

concerns should be brought to the attention of the Project Manager and NPS staff. Everyone 

conducting field work is responsible for reviewing and signing an acknowledgement that they have 

read the Job Safety Analysis; they are also strongly encouraged to review the information in SOP 1 -

Safety. It is particularly important that park resource managers know when volunteers are surveying, 

and that volunteers use check-in and check-out procedures with designated NPS staff for the park 

they are surveying. For additional information, see SOP 1 - Safety. 

Volunteer Qualifications

Volunteer observers participating in the NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Program must be 

capable of identifying the majority of breeding landbirds (≥ 80%) likely to be encountered by both 

sight and sound. This cannot be overemphasized. Various studies have shown that observer bias is 

one of the most noteworthy bias factors in trend analyses of songbird populations (Kepler and Scott 

1981, Baker and Sauer 1995). The network and the Project Manager are actively pursuing tools for 

ensuring birder skills, including supporting the extension of a web-based birder certification program 

to the Northeast. Additionally, volunteers must be proficient at estimating abundance of birds 

detected and their horizontal distance from the observer. Volunteers must also be capable of hiking 

from 2 - 5 km over variable terrain (depending on park and study site route), and arriving at their 

study site(s) by 0500 hrs on survey mornings. Volunteers are also encouraged to obtain certification 

in basic first aid and CPR.
28

Training Procedures

As noted above, volunteer observers must already possess a high degree of skill in breeding landbird 

identification in order to participate. Therefore, little training is needed in this area, but volunteers 

will be provided with a list of breeding landbird species likely to be encountered at the park in which 

they will be surveying so they can familiarize themselves with the identification of any problematic 

species prior to the start of the survey period. Although observers will be experienced in the 

identification of breeding landbirds, many will have little or no experience in estimating distances to 

vocalizing birds. Because it is not realistic to expect volunteers from all parks to be able to attend a 

training session on estimating distances to vocalizing birds, and it is not economically feasible to 

offer training sessions at each NETN park, volunteers will be provided with written training 

procedures and asked to practice distance estimation at their study site or in a habitat similar to the 

one in which they will be surveying. These procedures are outlined in SOP 3 - Recruiting and 

Training Volunteers.
29

Operational Requirements

Annual Workload and Field Schedule

Annual implementation of the landbird monitoring plan involves several people, including the 

Project Manager, NETN staff, park resource managers, and volunteers. Annual workload 

responsibilities vary widely, ranging from approximately 30 - 40% of one FTE for the Project

Manager (who is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the project), to 10 - 20 hours for 

volunteers and most Park Resource Managers. This section details the annual workload and schedule 

by breaking them down into the following pertinent phases — Volunteer Recruitment, Volunteer 

Training, Field Season, Data Entry/QA/QC, and Reporting.

Volunteer Recruitment

Recruiting volunteer observers is the responsibility of the Project Manager (for details, see SOP 3 -

Recruiting and Training Volunteers). However, assistance from park resource managers, who may 

have knowledge of local birders with the necessary skills to participate, is welcome. Volunteer 

recruitment should occur primarily in early spring (March - April), with the goal of filling any 

observer vacancies. This will involve prior communication with participating volunteers to determine 

the number and location of vacancies, as well as assessing the bird identification skills of interested 

observers. The time commitment for volunteer recruitment can range widely, from approximately 2 -

3 days up to 3 weeks annually, depending on the number of vacancies that need filling, and the 

amount of correspondence with volunteers and potential observers. 

Volunteer Training

Volunteer training responsibilities are divided between the Project Manager, park and Network staff, 

and the volunteers themselves (for details, see SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers).

The Project Manager is responsible for providing volunteers with the necessary training materials to 

prepare them for conducting point count surveys in the field, navigating by map and compass, and 

entering field data into the online database. The Volunteer Training Manual (available as a PDF on 

the NETN and Project Manager’s websites) and other materials should be distributed well in advance 

of the field season (March - April) in order to give volunteers enough time to familiarize themselves 

with the protocols and conduct training exercises in distance estimation. The estimated time 

commitment for providing these materials, keeping them updated and available for download on the 

Project Manager’s website, and communicating with volunteers is between 1 - 2 weeks annually.

Individual park and NETN staff are responsible for ensuring that volunteers are familiar with the 

proper use of navigation (GPS units) and communication (e.g., park radios or cell phones) equipment 

that are available for their use at most parks. Time commitment for this is expected to be less than 2 

hours annually.

Volunteers are responsible for training themselves in distance estimation, point count survey 

methods, use of map and compass, and data entry procedures. In addition, new volunteers should 

familiarize themselves with the list of breeding landbirds previously detected on their study site or 

park (provided by the Project Manager), and visit their study site to locate point count stations prior 
30

to conducting the survey. For new volunteers, the training process (including a field visit to locate 

point counts) may take 4 - 6 hours, but in subsequent years an annual review of the methodologies 

should be completed in an hour or less.

Field Season

Field Season responsibilities are divided between the Project Manager, individual park, and NETN 

staff, and volunteer observers (for details, see SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics).

The Project Manager is responsible for preparing a mailing to all volunteer observers that includes 

the necessary field equipment and materials needed to conduct their surveys, a cover letter, and any 

park permits (for complete list, see SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics). The mailing should go out by 10 

May to ensure volunteers receive materials prior to the survey window of 1 to 30 June. The time 

commitment to prepare mailing and respond to field season-related questions is estimated to be 

between 10 - 40 hours annually. If a volunteer cannot be found to survey a given study site despite 

significant effort on the part of the Project Manager, NETN staff will be notified and the Project 

Manager will attempt to either conduct the monitoring himself/herself (if time allows), or hire an 

appropriately skilled sub-contractor, provided sufficient funds remain in the budget for this task.

Park staff are responsible for acquiring any necessary clearances for volunteers, notifying park 

security if need be, or otherwise ensuring that observers have access to park property during early 

morning hours (ca. 0400 - 0430 hours) in order to start surveys at approximately 0500 hours. NETN 

staff will be responsible for obtaining a research permit for each park. Most NETN parks have issued 

10-year permits to cover monitoring activities, but the permit for ACAD must be renewed each year. 

This annual time commitment for both park and network staff is expected to be minimal (e.g., ≤ 1 

hour annually). At ACAD, the NETN Plant Ecologist is available to provide logistical support to the 

Project Manager and volunteers. This may include marking point count stations and study site routes, 

providing GPS units and training on their use, or responding to volunteer inquiries specific to the 

park. In most years, the time commitment for these responsibilities should be minimal (1 - 2 hours), 

but could range up to 25 hours if new point count stations need to be established. Establishing and 

maintaining point counts at parks other than ACAD is the responsibility of the Project Manager, 

which will require periodic visits to parks (~ 5 - 10 days approximately every 5 years).

Volunteer observers are responsible for conducting breeding landbird surveys during the month of 

June (for details, see SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts). Depending on the 

number of points on a given study site, surveys should take 2 - 2.5 hours to complete (not including 

travel time to and from park). Shortly after completing the survey (preferably the same day) 

observers should transcribe data from field cards to data coding sheets. This task takes less than an 

hour. 

Data Entry and QA/QC

Data entry into the web-based, Bird Point Count Database is primarily the responsibility of the 

volunteer observer who collected the data in the field. The Project Manager will provide support and 

guidance as needed, responding to questions about the data entry website, establishing deadlines for 

completing data entry, and sending out periodic reminders to observers who have not met the 
31

deadlines. Once data have been entered, volunteers should mail original data sheets to the Project 

Manager for QA/QC. If volunteers are unable to enter data within a month of data collection, they 

will be asked to mail their data forms to the Project Manager for data entry.

Quality assurance/quality control is primarily the responsibility of the Project Manager (see Data 

Entry and QA/QC, above). This time consuming job consists of comparing original field mapping 

and coding sheets with data entered online to look for discrepancies, and once corrected, marking 

records in the database as “verified.” Additionally, data should be error checked annually prior to 

conducting any analyses or preparing reports. This includes reviewing the current year’s raw data for 

unusual species that may have been entered incorrectly, checking species/subspecies with multiple 

common names (e.g., Slate-colored/Dark-eyed Junco, Yellow-rumped/Myrtle Warbler, etc.) to be 

sure the correct name (and alpha code) is used throughout, and generally reviewing fields for wildly 

incorrect data. Upon completion of QA/QC, completed field mapping cards and data coding sheets 

will be sent to the NETN office each year.

The time required for each observer to complete data entry should be 30 - 60 minutes, depending on 

the number of point counts that were completed, speed of internet connection, and familiarity with 

web-based data entry forms. The time commitment for the Project Manager to provide data entry 

support and complete QA/QC responsibilities is approximately 2 - 3 weeks, annually.

Reporting

The Project Manager is responsible for preparing two different summary reports annually describing 

the year’s monitoring results. The first report, due in early October for the NETN annual 

administrative report and work plan, is a brief (approximately one page) summary of 

accomplishments for the previous fiscal year (1 Oct - 30 Sept), including public interest highlights 

and any significant findings. The second, more substantive report will contain summaries of breeding 

landbirds found in each park, highlighting observations of PIF priority species (broken down into 

forest and grassland sites for SARA), comparisons with results from previous years, and calculation 

(and explanation) of an index of biological integrity for breeding landbirds, based on the collected 

data. The final report is due to the NETN Inventory and Monitoring Project Manager on 15 January 

each year. The time commitment for the Project Manager to complete and disseminate both reports is 

approximately 3 - 4 weeks. 

Facility and Equipment Needs

Equipment needs are minimal and include supplies for volunteers to conduct surveys, and point count 

station marking supplies. Volunteers are supplied with a count-down timer (Polder digital kitchen 

timer, Product No. 219442), data field cards, and data coding sheets (for examples, see SOP 5 -

Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts). At ACAD, it is important to maintain NETN GPS 

units and Personal Locator Beacons available for volunteer use. Point count station marking supplies 

include aluminum tree tags and nails and aluminum breeding landbird study site route signs; see SOP 

4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations), and flagging tape.
32

Startup Costs and Budget Considerations

Project startup costs are approximately $2,000, and include the cost of printing field data cards, 

purchasing supplies for volunteers (digital timers, etc.) and point count station marking, and 

establishing study sites.

Example Annual Operating Budget (2008)

Project Manager Salary (400 hours) $9,600.00

Travel (Mileage, lodging, meals) $1,300.00

Supplies and Equipment $300.00

 Field supplies for 20-40 volunteer observers (field cards, timers, etc., $200)

 Shipping / postage ($100.00) __________

Total Direct Costs $11,200.00

Indirect and Other Costs $2,500.00

Grand Total $13,700.00
33

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37

Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF 

Continental and/or Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority.

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Northern Bobwhite Colinus virginianus X X CBSD RC

IM CBSD RC IM

Gray Partridge Perdix perdix X X

Ring‐necked Pheasant Phasianus colchicus X X X X

Ruffed Grouse Bonasa umbellus CBSD CBSD CBSD X

Spruce Grouse Falcipennis canadensis X X

Sharp‐tailed Grouse Tympanuchus phasianellus X

Wild Turkey Meleagris gallopavo X X X X

Black Vulture Coragyps atratus X X

Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura X X X X

Osprey Pandion haliaetus X X X X

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus X X X X

Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus RC MA X X X

Sharp‐shinned Hawk Accipiter striatus X X X X

Cooper's Hawk Accipiter cooperii X X UCS PR X

Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis X X X X

Red‐shouldered Hawk Buteo lineatus X X X X

Broad‐winged Hawk Buteo platypterus X RS UCS PR RS UCS PR RC MA

Red‐tailed Hawk Buteo jamaicensis X X X X

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos X

American Kestrel Falco sparverius RC MA RC MA RC MA RC MA

Merlin Falco columbarius X X

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus X X RC CR X

Rock Pigeon Columba livia X X X X

Eurasian Collared‐Dove Streptopelia decaocto X
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

38

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Mourning Dove Zenaida macroura X X X X

Common Ground‐Dove Columbina passerina X

Monk Parakeet Myiopsitta monachus X

Yellow‐billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus CBSD X CBSD CBSD RC MA

Black‐billed Cuckoo Coccyzus erythropthalmus CBSD RC RS 

UCC UCS MA

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

CBSD UCC 

PR

Barn Owl Tyto alba X X X X

Eastern Screech‐Owl Megascops asio X X X X

Great Horned Owl Bubo virginianus X X X X

Northern Hawk Owl Surnia ulula X

Barred Owl Strix varia X X X X

Long‐eared Owl Asio otus X X X X

Short‐eared Owl Asio flammeus X CBSD X X

Boreal Owl Aegolius funereus X X

Northern Saw‐whet Owl Aegolius acadicus X X RC MA X

Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor X X X X

Chuck‐will's‐widow Caprimulgus carolinensis RC MA X

Eastern Whip‐poor‐will Caprimulgus vociferus CBSD RC UCC 

MA

CBSD UCC 

PR

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica CBSD CBSD CBSD RC 

RS UCS MACBSD RC MA

Ruby‐throated HummingbirdArchilochus colubris X X UCS PR X

Belted Kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon CBSD RC MA CBSD RC 

MA

CBSD RC 

RS UCS MA CBSD

Red‐headed Woodpecker Melanerpes erythrocephalus CBSD RC UCC 

IM X CBSD UCC PR

CBSD RC 

UCC IM

Red‐bellied Woodpecker Melanerpes carolinus X X X X

Yellow‐bellied Sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius X UCS PR X X

Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens X X RS UCS PR X

Hairy Woodpecker Picoides villosus X UCS PR X X

Red‐cockaded Woodpecker Picoides borealis RC UCC 

CR RC UCC CR
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

39

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

American Three‐toed 

Woodpecker Picoides dorsalis X X

Black‐backed Woodpecker Picoides arcticus X X

Northern Flicker Colaptes auratus CBSD RC MA CBSD RC 

MA

CBSD RC 

MA CBSD RC MA

Pileated Woodpecker Dryocopus pileatus X X UCS PR X

Olive‐sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi X RC UCC 

MA

RC UCC 

CR

Eastern Wood‐Pewee Contopus virens RC MA RC MA RC MA RC MA

Yellow‐bellied Flycatcher Empidonax flaviventris X X X

Acadian Flycatcher Empidonax virescens X X RC RS UCS

MA X

Alder Flycatcher Empidonax alnorum X X X X

Willow Flycatcher Empidonax traillii UCS PR X X X

Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus RC MA X X X

Eastern Phoebe Sayornis phoebe X X UCS PR X

Great Crested Flycatcher Myiarchus crinitus X X X X

Eastern Kingbird Tyrannus tyrannus RC MA RC MA X RC MA

Loggerhead Shrike Lanius ludovicianus X CBSD RC

CR CBSD RC CR

White‐eyed Vireo Vireo griseus X X X X

Yellow‐throated Vireo Vireo flavifrons X X RC RS UCS

MA RC MA

Blue‐headed Vireo Vireo solitarius X UCS PR X X

Warbling Vireo Vireo gilvus X X X X

Philadelphia Vireo Vireo philadelphicus X UCS PR

Red‐eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus X UCS PR UCS PR X

Gray Jay Perisoreus canadensis X X

Blue Jay Cyanocitta cristata X X X X

American Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos X X X X

Fish Crow Corvus ossifragus X X X X

Common Raven Corvus corax X X X X
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

40

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Horned Lark Eremophila alpestris CBSD X X CBSD

Purple Martin Progne subis X X RC MA X

Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor UCS PR RS UCS PR X X

Northern Rough‐winged

Swallow

Stelgidopteryx serripennis X X X X

Bank Swallow Riparia riparia CBSD RC MA CBSD RC

MA CBSD CBSD

Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota X X X X

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica RC MA X RC MA X

Carolina Chickadee Poecile carolinensis X RS UCS PR X

Black‐capped Chickadee Poecile atricapillus X UCS PR X X

Boreal Chickadee Poecile hudsonicus X CBSD RC 

MA

Tufted Titmouse Baeolophus bicolor X X UCS PR X

Red‐breasted Nuthatch Sitta canadensis X X X X

White‐breasted Nuthatch Sitta carolinensis X X UCS PR X

Brown‐headed Nuthatch Sitta pusilla X RC MA

Brown Creeper Certhia americana X X X X

Carolina Wren Thryothorus ludovicianus X X X X

Bewick's Wren Thryomanes bewickii RC CR

House Wren Troglodytes aedon X X X X

Winter Wren Troglodytes hiemalis X UCS PR X X

Sedge Wren Cistothorus platensis X X RC CR

Marsh Wren Cistothorus palustris X X X RC MA

Blue‐gray Gnatcatcher Polioptila caerulea X X X X

Golden‐crowned Kinglet Regulus satrapa X X X X

Ruby‐crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula X X X

Eastern Bluebird Sialia sialis X X UCS PR X

Veery Catharus fuscescens RC MA RC RS UCS 

MA X RC MA
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

41

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Bicknell's Thrush Catharus bicknelli RS UCC 

UCS PR UCC PR

Swainson's Thrush Catharus ustulatus X X X

Hermit Thrush Catharus guttatus X X X X

Wood Thrush Hylocichla mustelina RC UCC MA RC UCC 

MA

RC RS UCC 

UCS MA RC UCC MA

American Robin Turdus migratorius X X X X

Gray Catbird Dumetella carolinensis X X UCS PR UCS PR

Northern Mockingbird Mimus polyglottos X X X X

Brown Thrasher Toxostoma rufum RC MA RC MA RC MA RC MA

European Starling Sturnus vulgaris X X X X

American Pipit Anthus rubescens X

Cedar Waxwing Bombycilla cedrorum UCS PR UCS PR UCS PR X

Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapilla X UCS PR X X

Worm‐eating Warbler Helmitheros vermivorum X X RC RS UCS 

MA X

Louisiana Waterthrush Parkesia motacilla X X RC RS UCS 

MA X

Northern Waterthrush Parkesia noveboracensis X X X X

Golden‐winged Warbler Vermivora chrysoptera RC UCC MA X RC UCC IM RC UCC MA

Blue‐winged Warbler Vermivora cyanoptera RC RS UCS 

MA X RC RS UCS MA

RC RS UCS 

MA

Black‐and‐white Warbler Mniotilta varia X RS UCS PR RC MA RC MA

Prothonotary Warbler Protonotaria citrea X UCC PR UCC PR

Swainson's Warbler Limnothlypis swainsonii X X

Tennessee Warbler Oreothlypis peregrina X X

Nashville Warbler Oreothlypis ruficapilla X X X X

Mourning Warbler Geothlypis philadelphia X X X

Kentucky Warbler Geothlypis formosa X RC UCC 

MA RC UCC MA

Common Yellowthroat Geothlypis trichas X UCS PR UCS PR X

Hooded Warbler Setophaga citrina X X RS UCS PR RC MA
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

42

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

American Redstart Setophaga ruticilla X RS UCS PR X X

Cape May Warbler Setophaga tigrina X X

Cerulean Warbler Setophaga cerulea RC UCC MA X RC RS UCC 

UCS IM X

Northern Parula Setophaga americana X UCS PR X X

Magnolia Warbler Setophaga magnolia X UCS PR X X

Bay‐breasted Warbler Setophaga castanea X RC MA

Blackburnian Warbler Setophaga fusca X RS UCS PR X X

Yellow Warbler Setophaga petechia X X X X

Chestnut‐sided Warbler Setophaga pensylvanica X X X RC MA

Blackpoll Warbler Setophaga striata X X X

Black‐throated Blue Warbler Setophaga caerulescens X RS UCS PR X X

Palm Warbler Setophaga palmarum X X

Pine Warbler Setophaga pinus X X X X

Yellow‐rumped Warbler Setophaga coronata X X X X

Yellow‐throated Warbler Setophaga dominica X RS UCS PR X

Prairie Warbler Setophaga discolor CBSD UCC PR CBSD UCC 

PR

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

Black‐throated Green 

Warbler Setophaga virens X RS UCS PR X X

Canada Warbler Cardellina canadensis RC UCC MA RC RS UCC 

UCS MA UCC PR RC UCC IM

Wilson's Warbler Cardellina pusilla X X

Yellow‐breasted Chat Icteria virens X RC MA RC IM

Eastern Towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus RC MA X RC RS UCS 

MA RC MA

Bachman's Sparrow Peucaea aestivalis RC UCC 

CR

Chipping Sparrow Spizella passerina X X X X

Clay‐colored Sparrow Spizella pallida X X X

Field Sparrow Spizella pusilla CBSD RC MA X CBSD RC 

MA CBSD RC MA

Vesper Sparrow Pooecetes gramineus RC IM X X X
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

43

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Lark Sparrow Chondestes grammacus X RC CR

Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis RC MA X X X

Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum CBSD X CBSD RC 

IM CBSD RC IM

Henslow's Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii RC UCC IM RC UCC IM RC UCC CR

Le Conte's Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii X

Nelson's Sparrow Ammodramus nelsoni X X X

Saltmarsh Sparrow Ammodramus caudacutus X RC RS UCC 

UCS MA

Seaside Sparrow Ammodramus maritimus RC RS UCS 

MA

Fox Sparrow Passerella iliaca X

Song Sparrow Melospiza melodia UCS PR UCS PR UCS PR X

Lincoln's Sparrow Melospiza lincolnii X X

Swamp Sparrow Melospiza georgiana X X X X

White‐throated Sparrow Zonotrichia albicollis X X X X

Dark‐eyed Junco Junco hyemalis X X X X

Summer Tanager Piranga rubra X RC MA X

Scarlet Tanager Piranga olivacea X RC MA RS UCS PR RC MA

Northern Cardinal Cardinalis cardinalis X X X X

Rose‐breasted Grosbeak Pheucticus ludovicianus X X X RC MA

Blue Grosbeak Passerina caerulea X X

Indigo Bunting Passerina cyanea X X UCS PR X

Dickcissel Spiza americana X X X

Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus CBSD RC RS 

UCC UCS MA

CBSD RC 

UCC MA

CBSD UCC 

PR

CBSD UCC 

PR

Red‐winged Blackbird Agelaius phoeniceus X X X X

Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna CBSD RC MA X CBSD RC 

MA CBSD

Western Meadowlark Sturnella neglecta X X

Yellow‐headed Blackbird Xanthocephalus 

xanthocephalus X
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued).

44

Common Name Scientific Name BCR 13 BCR 14 BCR 28 BCR 30

Rusty Blackbird Euphagus carolinus X CBSD

Brewer's Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus X

Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula X X X X

Boat‐tailed Grackle Quiscalus major X

Brown‐headed Cowbird Molothrus ater X X X X

Orchard Oriole Icterus spurius X X X X

Baltimore Oriole Icterus galbula RC RS UCS 

MA X X RC MA

Pine Grosbeak Pinicola enucleator X X

Purple Finch Carpodacus purpureus X RS UCS PR X X

House Finch Carpodacus mexicanus X X X X

Red Crossbill Loxia curvirostra X X RC IM X

White‐winged Crossbill Loxia leucoptera X X X

Pine Siskin Spinus pinus CBSD CBSD X

American Goldfinch Spinus tristis UCS PR X RS UCS PR X

Evening Grosbeak Coccothraustes vespertinus X RC RS UCS 

MA X X

House Sparrow Passer domesticus X X X X

X = Present in BCR; CBSD = Common Bird in Steep Decline; RC = Regional Concern; RS = Regional Stewardship;

UCC = U.S.‐Canada Concern; UCS = U.S.‐Canada Stewardship; CR = Critical Recovery Action Needed; IM =

Immediate Management Action Needed;

MA = Management Attention Needed; PR = Planning and Responsibility Actions Needed
45

SOP 1 - Safety

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 1.02

Overview

The Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) considers the occupational health and safety of its 

employees, cooperators, contractors and volunteers (“monitoring staff”) to be of utmost importance, 

and is committed to ensuring that all personnel receive adequate training on National Park Service 

(NPS) safety procedures, incident reporting, and emergency response prior to field work. This SOP 

and supporting appendices were designed to provide a summary of safety issues that should be 

reviewed and understood by anyone participating in the breeding landbird monitoring protocol, and 

to serve as a first reference in case of an incident. Topics covered include emergency procedures and 

contacts, incident reporting, field preparation, safe field procedures, vehicle safety, and workers 

compensation procedures. A Green-Amber Red Risk Assessment (GAR) has been conducted for this 

protocol and is included as an appendix (Appendix S1.A). Additionally, a Job Safety Analysis (JSA), 

which documents hazards associated with this protocol and recommends approaches to mitigate these 

hazards, is included as an appendix (Appendix S1.B) to this SOP. The JSA must be read and signed 

by all monitoring staff who conduct field work for this protocol. Forms that go along with this SOP 

(Safety Acknowledgment, Safety Checklist, and Trip Plan) are provided in Appendix S1.C. This SOP 

does not cover first aid. 

Responding to an Incident

Life-Threatening Medical Emergency

1. Call 9-1-1 or park emergency number. If in an NETN park, use park radios to contact 

dispatch. Uninjured, assisting personnel: Administer first aid to the best of your knowledge, 

ability and training. If appropriate, transport to emergency room. Directions to the nearest 

hospital from each park are in Appendix C and emergency numbers are in Appendix D. 

Locations of the nearest hospital to each park have also been programmed into the GPS 

navigation units that are provided to the forest crew. 

2. Uninjured, assisting personnel: As soon as it is practical to do so, inform the protocol lead 

and the park’s emergency contact of the incident (Appendix D).

3. For injured NPS employees and NPS volunteers, complete Worker’s Compensation 

paperwork within 48 hours of incident (Appendix E). For other, non-NPS monitoring staff 

(i.e., contractors and cooperators), follow your organization’s procedures for documenting 

accidents.

Non-Emergency Incidents

1. For a non-emergency incident that may require medical attention, injured monitoring staff 

must contact the protocol lead immediately after incident. 
SOP 1 - Safety

46

2. For injured NPS staff and NPS volunteers, complete Worker’s Compensation paperwork 

(must be done within 48 hours of incident, Appendix E). For contractors and cooperators, 

follow your organization’s procedures for documenting accidents.

3. Injured monitoring staff should seek medical attention, if needed.

NOTE: Never discard original paperwork related to workers compensation claims (including 

information from doctor’s visits, CA-1, CA-2, CA-16 or CA-17 forms). 

Field Preparation

Everyone participating in breeding landbird monitoring is responsible for maintaining a safe work 

environment for themselves and others. 

Job Safety

An important tool used to promote safe conduct is the Job Safety Analysis (JSA; sometimes called a 

Job Hazard Analysis or JHA). This approach is consistent with NPS Directors Order 50 and 

Reference Manual 50B for Occupational Health and Safety. The JSA process is to (1) identify 

hazards associated with field and laboratory settings, as appropriate, and (2) develop approaches to 

mitigate those hazards. All monitoring staff must sign an acknowledgment that they have read the 

JSA in Appendix S1.B. In addition, it is highly recommended that all participants in this protocol 

read the entire Safety SOP before conducting field work. 

First Aid Kits and Training

NETN strongly encourages all monitoring staff to carry a backpacking first aid kit with them in the 

field. An inventory of first aid kits should be performed prior to each field season to ensure that all 

medical supplies are in sufficient quantity and haven’t expired. Each first aid kit should have an 

inventory list of the supplies it should contain. Items in first aid kits that are used should be promptly 

replaced. If you do not have access to a first aid kit and want to carry one, let the Project Manager 

know and NETN will purchase one that can be borrowed from the park you are volunteering at. 

NETN also strongly encourages all monitoring staff to obtain basic first aid and CPR training, 

particularly if they have not been certified in the past 5 years. 

Teamwork

Since much of the monitoring for this protocol is off-trail in somewhat inaccessible areas, NETN 

recommends that people work in teams for monitoring. Working with another person makes it more 

likely that someone will be able to obtain help in the event of an accident, and working with someone 

else usually makes field work more enjoyable. If you are unable to find someone to walk your study 

site route with you and you would like to work with someone else, please notify the Project Manager 

and he or she will contact the appropriate NPS staff to explore whether a field partner is possible. 

Daily Communication and Planning

Monitoring staff are expected to carry a reliable communication device. In most NETN parks, a 

personal cell phone can be used. At ACAD, cell phones are not reliable and NETN has purchased a 

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) and SPOT GPS Messenger that can be checked out by volunteers. 
SOP 1 - Safety

47

The SPOT GPS Messenger can be used for checking in at the end of the field day (as well as sending 

an emergency signal if needed), while the PLB is a more reliable emergency signaling device. 

Monitoring staff must fully understand how to operate all communication devices before heading 

into the field. All modes of communication must be fully charged and tested at the beginning of each 

day. 

Monitoring staff must notify the Project Manager and the appropriate park resource manager (or a 

designated individual; RM/DI) with expected dates of field work; both of these individuals must have 

current maps of the study site routes to be surveyed. On each monitoring day, monitoring staff must 

know which study site they will be monitoring and how they will get there before going into the 

field. The RM/DI must be contacted the day before field work will occur and provided with the 

monitoring staff name, cell phone number, vehicle license plate number, expected parking 

location(s), name of the study site, and estimated time of arrival and departure from the park. 

Monitoring staff must also establish a check-in time for completion of field work. If monitoring staff 

do not check in on or before the planned check-in time for completion of field work, the RM/DI will 

immediately try to reach them by all available methods. If the monitoring staff have not been reached 

within 30 minutes, the RM/DI will notify emergency services and initiate a search.

At ACAD, when the NETN PLB and SPOT GPS Messenger are being borrowed by the monitoring 

staff the trip information must also be provided to the NETN staff members responsible for tracking 

messages from the devices. NETN must also be provided with the RM/DI name, phone number, and

e-mail, and the RM/DI must be provided with contact information for NETN staff.

If the survey is cancelled or if the plan changes while in the field, staff must notify the RM/DI 

immediately. At the end of the day, staff must notify the RM/DI that they have returned from the 

field. At ACAD, the SPOT Messenger can be used to notify NETN that more time is needed in the 

field or that field work is completed; NETN staff will relay this message to the RM/DI. If NETN 

staff are not contacted, they will assume that the monitoring staff checked in directly with the 

RM/DI.

All monitoring staff are responsible for being aware of the time and ensuring that end of day 

check-ins occur on schedule; the RM/DI will call emergency services if the monitoring staff 

misses their check in and cannot be located within 30 minutes of the check-in time.

Personal Gear

Monitoring staff are responsible for ensuring they are wearing field appropriate clothing and 

footwear such as long pants, a hat and hiking boots. Depending on the weather, rain gear or warm 

clothing should be taken into the field and it is recommended that an extra set of clothing be kept in 

the vehicle. Monitoring staff should take care to avoid over exposure to the sun by wearing sunscreen 

and/or protective clothing. Monitoring staff should always carry ample water (2-3 liters) and food 

when working in the field. Dehydration is a serious condition that can lead to more serious conditions 

if untreated, and should be avoided. It is important to drink liquid frequently to maintain hydration on 

a warm day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. 
SOP 1 - Safety

48

Field Safety

Slip, Trip, Fall Prevention

Uneven terrain, slippery rocks, dense brush, and fatigue are all hazards that could result in a slip, trip, 

or fall. The following guidelines should be obeyed by monitoring staff to avoid injury from slips, 

trips, or falls:

• Always wear appropriate footwear such as sturdy hiking boots 

• Pay attention to where you are going, and remain alert of potential hazards

• Walk at an appropriate pace and adjust pace for changes in terrain (e.g., slow down and take 

smaller steps on slippery surfaces)

• When hiking long distances, take breaks to avoid fatigue

• When navigating to a point count station off trail, choose the safest route (this may not be the 

shortest route). Avoid river crossings, excessively steep terrain and sudden drop-offs. 

Always be careful when navigating over piles of scree, and alert others of falling rocks. 

Proper use of Backpacks

Forest crew members are expected to carry ≥ 35-40 pound packs over uneven terrain on a daily basis, 

and it is important for everyone to understand appropriate ways to pack, lift, and carry a heavy 

backpack to avoid serious back, neck and shoulder injuries. Monitoring staff must follow these 

guidelines:

• Use a sturdy field pack with padded and adjustable hip and shoulder straps. Packs will be 

provided for forest crew members. 

• Pack heavy items in the center of the pack and close to your back. 

• Make sure weight is evenly distributed from side to side.

• Once equipment is packed, tighten the compression straps to minimize movement inside the 

pack during travel. 

• When picking up a heavy pack, use your legs to do the lifting, and use slow, smooth 

movements. Keep your back straight, and keep the pack close to your body. Do not twist or 

bend at the waist, and do not swing the pack quickly over one shoulder. 

• Always carry a pack with both shoulder straps and with the hip belt and chest straps secured.

• The pack should be positioned near the center of the back, and most of the weight should rest 

on your hips.

• Keep your pack organized, and only carry the necessary equipment, food, and water to 

reduce weight.
SOP 1 - Safety

49

Weather

Weather conditions in the eastern U.S. can be hazardous and can change quickly. Monitoring staff 

are responsible for planning their day according to the local weather forecast and for being aware of 

their surroundings and changing conditions. 

Thunderstorms

Storms that produce strong winds and lightning are dangerous and should be avoided in the field. If 

caught in a lightning storm, seek shelter in a building or car as soon as possible. If no shelter is 

available, spread out and move to an open space. Squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet 

with your hands on your knees (do NOT lie flat on the ground). Avoid high elevations, conductive 

materials, and tall structures such as trees or telephone poles. If you are in the open and feel your hair 

stand on end (indicating lightning is about to strike), immediately make yourself the smallest target 

possible and minimize contact with the ground.

NOTE: A person struck by lightning can often be revived by prompt administration of CPR and 

oxygen.

Excessive Heat and Sun

Over exposure to heat and sun can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. All are serious 

conditions that can be life threatening, and should be avoided. When working in hot weather, be sure 

to drink plenty of water and eat foods that can replace electrolytes. Wear loose and light colored 

clothing, including a hat to block the sun’s rays. It may help to shift the field schedule to avoid 

working outside during the hottest part of the day. 

WARNING: Signs of heat stroke include hot, red or spotted (usually dry) skin, and the sufferer may 

be mentally confused, delirious, having convulsions, or unconscious. If heat stroke is suspected, seek 

immediate medical attention!

Poor Air Quality

Summer ozone and particulate matter levels occasionally exceed federal health standards. Young 

children, seniors, and those suffering from asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive 

pulmonary disease or heart problems are especially sensitive to poor air quality and should minimize 

outdoor activity when poor air quality warnings are posted. The risks of occasional exposure to 

ozone and fine particulate matter are minimal for healthy individuals. 

When poor air quality warnings occur, it is advisable for monitoring staff to avoid overly strenuous 

activity during the hottest part of the day (pollution levels tend to be lowest early in the morning), 

and to stick to lower elevations under a forest canopy. 

To check local air quality forecasts, or learn more about health risks of air pollution, visit the 

AIRNow intergovernmental agency website: http://www.airnow.gov/.

Deer ticks and Lyme Disease

Several species of ticks are commonly encountered in eastern U.S. parks while working in the field 

(Figure S1.1). This includes the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis), which is a known vector of Lyme 
SOP 1 - Safety

50

disease and Ehrlichiosis. Monitoring staff must take the precautions outlined below to help minimize 

the chances of having an embedded tick that could lead to illness:

• Clothes treated with tick and insect repellents have been found to be fairly effective tick 

repellant. Monitoring staff are strongly encouraged to treat their clothing with permethrin 

prior to conducting monitoring. Monitoring staff should carefully follow the application 

instructions on the spray bottles to ensure their safety. Permethrin will remain active for 

several weeks and through several washings. 

• Monitoring staff should take additional precautions to protect themselves from ticks, 

including tucking pants in socks and tucking in shirts. Long sleeves and gaiters have been 

found to help. 

• Check clothes and skin for ticks at the end of every field day. Ticks typically need to be 

embedded for at least 24 hours for disease transmission to occur; therefore, the earlier ticks 

are found and removed, the lower your chances are of acquiring a tick-borne illness.

• If you find a tick that is already embedded, use fine-tipped tweezers to firmly grasp the tick 

close to your skin. Slowly and steadily pull the tick’s body away from your skin. Be careful 

not to crush the tick’s body to minimize the chances of it regurgitating fluids into the wound. 

Clean the bite area once the tick is removed with soap and water. 

• If you receive a deer tick bite, notify the Project Manager, who will put you in contact with 

NETN staff so you can start a worker's compensation CA-1 claim to get a CA-16. If you start 

to notice symptoms of a tick borne disease, use the CA-16 to get medical treatment. 

• Keep an eye out for any early symptoms of tick borne diseases. Symptoms may include a 

bull’s eye rash around the tick bite (doesn’t always occur), tingling or numbness in 

extremities, a spotted rash on extremities, bad headaches, high fever, joint aches, stiff neck, 

fatigue, or swollen glands. If you develop a combination of these symptoms soon after a tick 

bite, seek medical attention.
SOP 1 - Safety

51

Figure S1.1. Tick species found in the eastern US.

Considerations for using repellents containing DEET:

• DEET products have been widely used for many years; these products have occasionally 

been associated with some adverse reactions. Frequently, reported reactions are about skin or 

eye irritation. There have been reports of central nervous system problems.

• By using products with lower concentrations of DEET and by applying as little of the product 

as needed for your outdoor work, you can reduce your expose to DEET.

• Products with about 20 - 30% DEET are considered effective for most insects, but do not 

seem to be effective against the black-legged or deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) 
SOP 1 - Safety

52

• Generally, products with about 20 - 30% DEET are considered safe for adults (except for 

those with allergies to DEET products) when applied as directed.

Considerations for using repellents containing permethrin:

• Products containing permethrin are for use on clothing only – not for use on skin.

• Permethrin kills ticks that come in contact with treated clothing and one application lasts two 

weeks or more. Do not treat the clothing more than once every two weeks.

• Carefully read and follow manufacturer’s instructions for application, and refer to the MSDS 

sheet if you have questions.

• Do not apply while clothing is being worn.

• Apply to clothing item in a well-ventilated outdoor area, protected from wind.

• Lightly moisten the fabric with permethrin – do not saturate the fabric.

• Allow clothing item to dry outdoors for at least two hours before wearing (4 hours in humid 

conditions).

• Keep treated clothes in a separate bag for storage and transport.

• Launder treated clothing, separately from other clothing.

More information on permethrin:

http://www.epa.gov/oppsrrd1/REDs/factsheets/permethrin_fs.htm

http://drugsafetysite.com/permethrin/

Prophylactic (preventative) use of antibiotics: 

Antibiotics are sometimes used to prevent Lyme disease transmission from the deer tick. Antibiotics 

may be prescribed following a deer tick bite if the tick was attached for 24 or more hours, AND the 

bite occurred in an area where Lyme disease is common. Other tick borne diseases are usually treated 

using antibiotics only after symptoms become obvious.

A few things to keep in mind about antibiotic therapy:

According to the US Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control:

• Every time a person takes antibiotics, sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant germs may be 

left to grow and multiply. Repeated and improper uses of antibiotics are primary causes of 

the increase in drug-resistant bacteria. 

• Misuse of antibiotics jeopardizes the usefulness of essential drugs. Decreasing inappropriate 

antibiotic use is the best way to control resistance. 
SOP 1 - Safety

53

• Antibiotic resistance can cause significant danger and suffering for people who have common 

infections that once were easily treatable with antibiotics. When antibiotics fail to work, the 

consequences are longer-lasting illnesses; more doctor visits or extended hospital stays; and 

the need for more expensive and toxic medications. 

More information on Lyme Disease and Ticks:

Center for Disease Control:

http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/

(also a free webinar on tickborne diseases)

American Lyme Disease Foundation:

http://www.aldf.com/

Tick Management Handbook:

http://www.ct.gov/caes/lib/caes/documents/publications/bulletins/b1010.pdf

Poisonous Plants and Animals

Both for safety and protection of park resources, it is never advisable for monitoring staff to eat wild 

plants while working in a National Park, regardless of their confidence in plant identification. Keep a 

safe distance from wildlife. 

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy (Toxicodendron spp.) is present in most NETN parks, and can be very abundant in 

localized areas. When working in areas with poison ivy, it is advisable that monitoring staff learn to 

recognize this plant and take precautions to avoid skin contact with any part of it. Using a preexposure cream and wearing long sleeves and long pants can help reduce the amount of skin contact 

with the plant. If needed, use poison ivy wipes after contact. Monitoring staff should be careful not to 

rub their faces when working around poison ivy. After working in an area with abundant poison ivy, 

monitoring staff should gently wash exposed skin in cool water with poison ivy soap, and should 

change into fresh field clothes. At the end of a field day, monitoring staff should also wash 

potentially contaminated equipment (e.g., backpack). If a severe allergic reaction occurs, the affected 

individual should seek medical attention, notify the Project Manager as soon as possible, and file a 

workers compensation claim. 

Venomous Snakes

The following species of venomous snakes may occur in some NETN parks: copperhead 

(Agkistrodon contortrix) and timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). The best course of action is to 

avoid all snakes by keeping them at a safe distance. When in poisonous snake country, pay attention 

to where you put your hands and feet, and be aware around rock piles and bedrock outcrops. Note 

that many snake bites are purely defensive, and contain no venom. Bites from immature snakes are 

much more likely to contain a more dangerous amount of venom than bites from adult snakes. 

Should you receive a snake bite from a potentially poisonous snake, follow the procedure below: 
SOP 1 - Safety

54

• Treat all bites as if envenomation has occurred.

o Time is of the essence

o If working in a team, assign one person to use a cell phone to call for assistance. 

Identify the call as a snakebite incident, and identify the victim's location and the 

closest possible point of access for responders. 

o Quickly remove rings, watches, shoes etc., before swelling begins.

o Immobilize the bitten limb firmly with a splinted elastic (Ace) bandage and get the 

victim out of the woods and to a hospital as quickly as possible.

o Do not use thin circulation restrictive cords, pack with ice for long periods (more 

than five minutes) or attempt to cut open or otherwise enlarge the fang punctures.

• Reassure the victim that they will be OK and otherwise attempt to maintain the calm both for 

the victim and for all others involved.

o In a crew situation, begin leading the victim slowly out of the woods as soon as the 

bitten limb has been immobilized. Move as slow as necessary to maintain a normal 

heart rate for the victim. Waiting for assistance will only prolong the process of 

getting proper medical treatment.

o In a solitary situation, establish radio or telephone contact and relay the necessary 

information as you walk slowly out of the woods. Focus on remaining calm and 

maintaining a normal heart rate.

• It is better to spend your available time getting to proper medical treatment facilities than it is 

to fumble with field therapy and wait for assistance to reach you.

The range of the copperhead covers the following NETN parks: Morristown NHP (MORR), 

Roosevelt Vanderbilt NHS (ROVA), Saratoga NHP (SARA) and Weir Farm NHS (WEFA). The 

likelihood of encountering a copperhead is low in NETN parks. Copperhead bites are not typically 

considered life threatening, and in most cases antivenin is not administered. 

The range of the timber rattlesnake covers all NETN parks except ACAD. This species is listed by 

NatureServe as "critically imperiled" (S1: New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and 

Connecticut) or "vulnerable" (S3: New York, Pennsylvania) throughout NETN, and the likelihood of 

encountering a timber rattlesnake in NETN parks is very low. Adult timber rattlesnakes are capable 

of delivering a lethal dose of venom. 

Bees, Wasps, and Yellow Jackets

If any monitoring staff are allergic to bee stings, they should alert their colleagues and make sure to 

carry appropriate medications. If they carry an epinephrine injector and are working in a team, they 

should make sure their colleague knows where it is carried. Be alert to potential hive and nest 
SOP 1 - Safety

55

locations while hiking to point count stations and working on point count stations. Look for insects 

travelling in and out of one location (e.g., brush, ground holes, and hollow logs). If someone is stung, 

Benadryl and a cold compress may bring relief. If stinger is left behind, scrape it off of skin. Do not 

use tweezers as this squeezes the venom sack, worsening the injury. If the victim develops hives, 

asthmatic breathing, tissue swelling or a drop in blood pressure, seek medical help immediately.

Black Bears

Black bears range throughout the Northeast, but an encounter with a bear in the field is not likely 

since bears generally avoid people. Nevertheless, be alert for bears near dawn or dusk, and be 

especially aware of mother bears with cubs. Never approach cubs or come between a mother bear 

and her cubs. If a bear is encountered, face the animal and continually make noise – do not freeze or 

remain silent. Appear larger by standing tall, waving arms or jacket over your head, and slowly back 

away. Never run from a black bear; if charged or attacked, throw objects and shout loudly, and fight 

back aggressively.

Vehicle Safety

Responsibilities of Vehicle Operators

Virtually all monitoring staff for the landbird protocol will be using their personal vehicles to get to 

and from their monitoring sites. Monitoring staff are responsible for inspecting their vehicles before 

every use to ensure the vehicles are in safe working condition. This includes visually checking tire 

pressure, adjusting mirrors, and making sure equipment is secure, as well as taking care of 

preventative maintenance in a timely manner. It is strongly recommended that monitoring staff obey 

the following rules (these rules are mandatory in government vehicles):

• Wear a seat belt. 

• Do not use cell phones (both talking and texting) while driving.

• Adhere to all federal and state vehicle regulations, including all posted speed limits.

Procedures for reporting a motor vehicle accident

In the event of an automobile accident, volunteers and NPS staff should follow NPS accident 

reporting procedures. Cooperators or contractors would need to follow their organization’s 

procedures. The NPS procedures are as follows: 

1. Stop immediately and turn on emergency flashers.

2. Take steps to prevent another accident at the scene.

3. Call 911 or ambulance if necessary.

4. Notify police, NPS law enforcement (if at a park with law enforcement – ACAD, MIMA, 

MORR, and SARA) and the Project Manager. The Project Manager will notify NETN staff.
SOP 1 - Safety

56

5. In the event of death, actual or potential serious injury, or significant property damage 

(damage greater than $2,500), the staff involved must convey this information as soon as is 

practical to NETN staff, so that the NPS Regional Tort Claims Officer (TCO), Dave Schuller 

(215-597-5368), can be notified.

6. In reporting an accident, monitoring staff should state the facts to the best of his/her 

knowledge. Conclusions as to fault or responsibility should not be stated. Monitoring 

staff should report the accident only to authorized representatives of the Government, their 

insurance company, and police officers investigating the accident. Monitoring staff shall also 

file any report required by law.

7. Get name and address of witness (preferably two witnesses). Ask witness to complete 

Standard Form (SF) 94, Statement of Witness, if the form is available.

8. State/provide your name, address, place of employment (or park where volunteering), name 

of your supervisor (Project Manager if a volunteer), and upon request show your driver’s 

license and vehicle registration information.

9. Complete Standard Form (SF) 91, Motor Vehicle Accident Report as soon as practical. If 

conditions prevent this, make notes of the following:

a. Registration information for other vehicle(s) (owner’s name, owner’s address, tag 

number, VIN, and vehicle description)

b. Information on other drivers (name, address, operator’s permit, and expiration date)

c. Name and address of each person involved and extent of injury, in any.

d. Name and address of company insuring other vehicle(s) and insurance policy number

e. General information such as location, time, measurements, weather, damage, etc.

10. Encourage police to provide a Police Report and, if available, submit a copy with SF-91.

11. If you have a camera, take pictures of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles 

involved. Submit along with SF-91.

12. If vehicle is unsafe to operate, arrange for towing services (if a government vehicle, pay 

using the vehicle gas card). 

13. Submit all reports and data to the NETN Program Manager within one working day.

14. If a federal employee or volunteer is injured, the workers compensation process needs to be 

initiated within 48 hours of incident. NETN staff will assist with this process. It is important 

for injured monitoring staff to receive prompt medical treatment. Make sure the employee 

sees a doctor, not a nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant.
SOP 1 - Safety

57

15. NETN staff will submit copies of all reports and data to the NPS regional TORT Claims 

Officer (TCO) [Dave Schuller 215-597-5368] as soon as possible but no later than 10 

calendar days after the accident.

Accident/collision reports should be filed for:

1. All motor vehicle accidents involving federally owned or leased vehicles and employeeowned or rented vehicles while being used on official business, regardless of the amount of 

damage.

2. All public/visitor accidents will be reported on a SF-91 when a government-owned vehicle is 

involved, government property is damaged, fatality occurs, medical treatment is required 

and/or a reasonable possibility of a tort claim is expected.

3. Thefts and Vandalism should be reported to Park Law Enforcement Officials rather than 

reported on SF-91.

4. Reporting Multiple Vehicle Accidents – when a privately owned vehicle damages 

Government property, two reports (SF-91) are required: one report for the Government 

property and one for the private operator.

SOP 1 - Safety

59

Appendix S1.A - Green-Amber-Red Risk Assessment

This appendix describes application of the GREEN-AMBER-RED (GAR) Risk Assessment Model 

as outlined in the NPS Operational Leadership Student Manual (Version 2; July 2011) to the NETN 

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol. This GAR was written by the NETN Program Manager 

(Brian Mitchell) on 24 February 2012 and approved by the NPS Northeast Region I&M Program 

Manager (John Karish) on 17 January 2013.

The GAR model allows for a general assessment of a task or operation and generates communication 

concerning the risks of an activity (in this case, conducting the field-based activities of the NETN 

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol). The most important part of the process is the team 

discussions leading to an understanding of the risks and how they will be managed. 

The GAR is a seven step process. Each step is defined and explained in the context of the NETN 

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol below.

Step 1: Define the Mission or Task

The NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol includes a field-based monitoring activity: 

surveying breeding landbirds along study site routes in forests and fields. Monitoring staff are usually 

volunteers who work independently and are coordinated by a contractor (the Project Manager). Staff 

are encouraged to work in pairs and NPS has agreed to help find partners for monitoring volunteers 

when the volunteers request a partner. The activity is conducted away from roads and trails, and at 

ACAD (the park with the most difficult terrain and greatest distances from roads and trails) the 

monitoring has been limited to locations with lower slopes (<30%) that are within 1.5 km of roads. 

Potential safety hazards (along with mitigation measures) have been identified in a Job Safety 

Analysis (JSA; Appendix S1.B). Of specific concern is that monitoring staff will regularly be 

working in fairly remote areas with limited communication options in the event of an emergency. A 

serious injury due to walking through thick brush or a trip and fall while traversing uneven or steep 

terrain are both possible and are the most significant risks encountered when conducting this activity.

Step 2: Define the Threats

The threats/hazards for this activity along with mitigation measures are described in the associated 

JSA (Appendix S1.B).

Step 3: Assess Risk and Assign a Numerical Value

The numerical ranks (Table S1.A.1) were assigned by Brian Mitchell, the NETN Program Manager 

and the NPS project leader for the NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol. NETN staff and 

the Project Manager reviewed the ratings and analysis and their suggestions were incorporated. It 

should be noted that at the time numerical values were assigned (February 24, 2012) the protocol had 

been in operation for six years and considerable time and effort had already gone into evaluating and 

mitigating risks.

The GAR process is described in NPS Operational Leadership Student Manual (Version 2; July 

2011).The activity risk can be visualized using the colors of a traffic light. If the total risk value falls 
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.A Green-Amber-Red Risk Assessment (continued).

60

in the GREEN ZONE (1-35), risk is rated as low. If the total risk value falls in the AMBER ZONE 

(36-60), risk is moderate and you should consider adopting procedures to minimize the risk. If the 

total value falls in the RED ZONE (61-80), you should implement measures to reduce the risk prior 

to starting the event or evolution.

The ability to assign numerical values or “color codes” to hazards using the GAR Model is not the 

most important part of risk assessment. What is critical to this step is team discussions leading to an 

understanding of the risks and how they will be managed.

Table S1.A.1. NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol assigned risk codes of 0 (For No Risk) 

through 10 (For Maximum Risk) to each of the eight Green-Amber-Red Risk Assessment elements.

Element Rating

Supervision 5

Planning 3

Communication 3

Contingency Resources 6

Team Selection 6

Team Fitness 3

Environment 5

Event/Evolution Complexity 5

Total Risk Score 36

Step 4: Identify Risk Control Options

Supervision

The NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol clearly identifies personnel, roles and 

responsibilities, and a chain of command. A coordinator (the contracted Project Manager) is the 

supervisor and is available to answer questions from monitoring staff, and the staff are encouraged to 

work with a partner in the field but may opt to work alone. Monitoring staff are required to follow 

check-in and check-out procedures with NPS staff at their assigned park. A score of 5 was assigned 

because of the lack of direct supervision and the likelihood that many monitoring staff will work 

alone. 

Planning

The NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol includes numerous SOPs that explain hiring, 

training, personal safety, emergency communication (equipment and contacts), and appropriate field 

activities. Monitoring staff are asked to review the volunteer manual, which summarizes relevant 

field procedures and provides a summary of the safety SOP, and they must sign an acknowledgement 

that they have reviewed the JSA. Monitoring staff are highly recommended to have first aid and CPR 

training. Due to this advance planning, written documentation, and training procedures, a low score 

(3) was assigned.
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.A Green-Amber-Red Risk Assessment (continued).

61

Communication

Routine and emergency communication procedures are explained in the relevant SOPs, and 

monitoring staff are provided with contact information specific to their assigned park. The 

procedures include coordination with park natural resource managers and other designated park staff. 

It also includes a daily check-out/check-in procedure for monitoring staff to ensure that a responsible 

party knows if someone has not returned from the field activity in a timely manner. Due to this 

advance planning, written documentation, and training procedures, a low score (3) was assigned.

Contingency Resources

Contingency resources include communication equipment and procedures that explicitly involve park 

rangers, park dispatch, and 9-1-1. Monitoring staff are required to carry a cell phone, but coverage is 

not complete in many parks. At the park with the worst cell coverage (ACAD), monitoring staff can 

check out a Personal Locator Beacon and SPOT GPS Messenger to facilitate check-ins and 

emergency response. In the worst case scenario, an incident involving a solo individual in an area 

with no cell phone coverage could result in a long delay before emergency services are alerted. 

However, monitors use marked routes and they end field work before noon, so if a search is initiated 

after a missed check-in the individual should be located on the same day and within a few hours of 

starting a search. A score of 6 was assigned for this worst-case scenario.

Team Selection

The monitoring protocol identifies the essential skills and abilities required to execute this protocol in 

a competent manner. Monitoring staff are experienced birders, and many of them are retirees. There 

is also some variation in their orienteering and hiking experience. Monitoring staff are strongly 

encouraged to obtain basic first aid and CPR certification, and to work with a partner if they are at all 

concerned about field conditions. A score of 6 was assigned because some monitoring staff may have 

limited experience with off-trail hiking and navigating.

Team Fitness

The nature of the Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol should ensure an overall high level of team 

fitness. Monitoring staff are only in the field for approximately 5 hours per day (not including drive 

times), and each individual typically monitors one site once per year. Some individuals monitor 

multiple sites or monitor their site twice per year (with 2 weeks between sampling events). In these 

cases, monitoring staff do not monitor multiple sites in one day. A score of 3 was assigned because 

the shifts are not long, even though the work can be strenuous and begins around dawn. Monitoring 

staff must be diligent about adequate rest and nourishment to ensure that fatigue does not become a 

factor.

Environment

Environment was assigned a medium score (5) primarily because the work often involves activities 

in dense foliage away from trails, on uneven and occasionally steep terrain. Activities may start 

before dawn and occur during a variety of weather conditions, but are cancelled by rain and high 

winds.
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.A Green-Amber-Red Risk Assessment (continued).

62

Incident Complexity

Incident complexity was also assigned a medium score (5) because daily field conditions change due 

to weather. Individual monitoring staff must use judgment and experience to respond appropriately.

Step 5: Evaluate Risk vs. Gain

The scores for this assessment fall at the very bottom of the “amber” zone, indicating a moderately 

risky activity. While it is theoretically possible to make changes to reduce risk even further, doing so 

will likely cause volunteers to leave the program due to the intrusive requirements. The NETN 

Program Manager feels that the current procedures provide a good balance that encourages 

monitoring staff to be safe without being overly protective. NETN feels that this monitoring activity, 

if carried out in accordance with all SOPs, has an acceptable level of risk.

Step 6: Execute Decision

The decision made by the NETN Program Manager is to conduct the activity in accordance with 

NETN Breeding Landbird Monitoring Protocol Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Step 7: Supervise – Watch for Change

The NETN Program Manager continually solicits feedback from the contractor and NPS staff on safe 

execution of the protocol including risk control options not considered thus far.
SOP 1 – Safety

63

Appendix S1.B - Job Safety Analysis

JOB SAFETY ANALYSIS:

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Field 

Work and Travel to, from, and within 

Parks

JOB TITLE:

Breeding Landbird Monitor

DEPARTMENT:

Northeast Temperate Network 

ANALYSIS BY:

Brian R. Mitchell, NETN Program 

Manager

NEW 

REVISED

REVIEWED

John Karish, NER I&M 

Program Manager

Required and/or Recommended Personal Protective Equipment:

Required: At least one method of communication (i.e., cell phone in most parks; Personal Locator Beacon and 

SPOT GPS Messenger at ACAD), driver’s license.

Recommended as appropriate: first aid kit, rain gear, condition-appropriate footwear and clothing, sufficient 

food and water.

Tasks Potential Hazards Recommended Action or Procedure

Planning and 

Communication

Not being prepared and following 

plan/itinerary.

Communication breakdowns.

• Plan ahead. Know where you will be 

going, the study site to be surveyed, and 

any particular hazards associated with the 

monitoring route. Check the weather 

forecast and plan accordingly.

• Check in with park resource manager or 

designated individual (RM/DI) prior to 

field work with a trip plan, and after field 

work to confirm the work is safely 

completed. Contact the RM/DI with any 

changes, including cancellation of field 

work. If return will be delayed, contact 

RM/DI before agreed-upon check-in time 

to establish a new check-in time.

• Always carry at least one method of 

communication, and verify that it has a full 

charge before starting field work.

Emergency 

Preparedness

Not knowing emergency 

procedures.

Not having emergency supplies.

• Know who to contact and how to reach 

them in the event of a life-threatening or 

non-life-threatening emergency. 

• Have current CPR and first aid 

certification.

• Carry a well-maintained first aid kit.
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.B Job Safety Analysis (continued).

Tasks Potential Hazards Recommended Action or Procedure

General foot 

travel

Falling or tripping due to wet areas, 

poor footing, uneven terrain, 

loose/rolling rocks and heavy pack. 

• Use caution at all times. Walk carefully, 

watching footing.

• Wear appropriate boots for conditions. 

Stay aware of your feet. Address blisters 

and hot spots promptly.

• Avoid carrying excessive weight loads or 

unbalanced loads.

• When walking on a steep slope, lean 

upslope. Ensure that stems and vines are 

alive and can support your weight before 

relying on them. 

• Use extreme caution traversing wet rocks, 

streams, steep slopes or blowdown areas. 

Working 

outdoors during 

storms

Being struck by falling trees or 

branches; being struck by lightning

• Listen to the weather forecast each 

morning (park radio and/or internet). 

• Breeding landbird monitoring is not 

conducted when it is raining or windy.

• Plan or adjust field work to avoid being out 

in thunderstorms.

• Postpone work if safety will be 

compromised by storm conditions. If you 

see or hear a thunderstorm coming, retreat 

from high ground and exposed areas. Go 

inside a sturdy building or vehicle, if 

possible.

• If you can’t get inside and if you feel your 

hair stand on end, lightning is about to

strike. 

• Make yourself the smallest target possible 

and minimize contact with the ground. 

• Crouch down on your pack on the balls of 

your feet and keep your feet close together. 

Place your hands on your knees and lower 

your head.

• During a thunderstorm, members of the 

crew should stay separated by at least ten 

feet.

Poisonous plants, 

especially poison 

ivy 

Contamination/toxicity from 

contact with poisonous plants

• Learn to identify poison ivy in its many 

growth forms.

• Wear long sleeves and pants.

• Be aware of poison ivy and avoid coming 

in direct contact with it.

• Thoroughly wash hands, equipment, and 

clothes with Tecnu or similar specialized 

soap if you come into contact with poison 

ivy.
SOP 1 – Safety

65

Appendix S1.B Job Safety Analysis (continued).

Tasks Potential Hazards Recommended Action or Procedure

Working in bear 

territory

Black bear encounter • Be especially alert near dawn or dusk.

• Be especially aware of mother bears with 

cubs. Never approach cubs or come 

between a mother bear and her cubs. 

• Face the animal, continually make noise –

do not freeze or remain silent.

• Appear larger by standing tall, waving 

arms or jacket over your head.

• Slowly back away – do not approach a 

bear.

• Never run from a bear.

• Throw things and shout loudly.

• Fight back aggressively.

Bee, wasp, or 

yellow-jacket 

stings

Multiple stings from disturbing or 

stepping into nest areas

• Be alert to hives in brush, ground holes, or 

hollow logs. Watch for insects traveling in 

and out of one location.

• If you are allergic to bee stings, tell your 

partner (if working in a pair). Make sure 

you carry emergency medication with you 

at all times and that your partner (if 

applicable) knows where you keep it.

• Wear long sleeve shirts and trousers, tuck 

in shirt. Bright colors and metal objects 

may attract bees or wasps.

• If you are stung, a cold compress may 

bring relief.

• If stinger is left behind, scrape it off of 

skin. Do not use tweezers as this squeezes 

the venom sack, worsening the injury.

• If the victim develops hives, asthmatic 

breathing, tissue swelling or a drop in 

blood pressure, seek medical help 

immediately.

Bites from 

mosquitoes, 

black flies, and 

other insects

Itchy reactions to multiple bites • Wear long sleeves and pants.

• Avoid sitting on the ground or on logs, 

especially in dry sunny grassy areas.

• Use insect repellants. Do not apply 

Permethrin, Permanone, or greater than 

30% DEET directly to skin, only to 

clothing.

• Carry after-bite medication to reduce skin 

irritation.
SOP 1 – Safety

66

Appendix S1.B Job Safety Analysis (continued).

Tasks Potential Hazards Recommended Action or Procedure

Ticks Contracting diseases transmitted 

from ticks

• Use tick avoidance precautions, including 

pre-treating clothing with permethrin, 

tucking pants into socks and shirt into 

pants when hiking. 

• Wear clothes (including pants and longsleeved shirts) that are light colored and 

check for ticks on clothing after traveling 

through vegetation.

• Conduct a thorough tick check every 

evening after completing field work.

• Know how to identify tick life forms, and 

the signs & symptoms of tick-borne 

diseases.

Venomous 

snakes

Being bitten by a venomous snake • Venomous snakes are rare in NETN parks. 

• Be alert for snakes in thick vegetation and 

rocky habitats.

• Look before putting hands or feet in places 

out of immediate view.

• Treat all bites as if envenomation has 

occurred.

• Immobilize the bitten area and keep it 

lower than the heart.

• Apply a bandage, wrapped two to four 

inches above the bite, to help slow the 

venom. This should not cut off the flow of 

blood from a vein or artery - the band 

should be loose enough to slip a finger 

under it.

• Remove rings, watches, shoes, etc. before 

swelling begins in earnest.

• Seek medical attention immediately and/or 

call for help. Remain calm.

• Rattlesnake bites are more likely to be lifethreatening.

Walking through 

thick vegetation

Cut, scratched, or bruised by 

vegetation; eye or ear injuries

• Shield your eyes and face with your hands, 

glasses, or hat when moving through tall 

thick brush. Keep your head and eyes 

pointed somewhat downward so your head 

hits obstacles before your eyes.

• Wear pants and long-sleeved shirts to 

protect bare skin. 

• Look before you grab vegetation to avoid 

grasping thorny stems. 

• Do not follow closely behind other people 

to avoid having branches snap back and hit 

you.
SOP 1 – Safety

67

Appendix S1.B Job Safety Analysis (continued).

Tasks Potential Hazards Recommended Action or Procedure

Crossing streams Injuries from falling and/or drowning • Do not cross streams that are flowing quickly 

and higher than mid-calf; find another route.

• Thoroughly investigate area to find safest 

crossings.

• Wear appropriate foot gear for stream 

crossings.

• It is safer to wade through water, rather than 

rock hop across a stream trying to keep your 

boots dry.

• Unbuckle your pack and be prepared to 

jettison gear should you lose your balance or 

fall in.

• Use a sturdy pole or walking stick for 

balance.

Working in heat, 

humidity, or cold

Heat exhaustion, sunburn, 

dehydration, hypothermia

• Evaluate the weather forecast each morning 

and plan field work accordingly.

• Carry and drink plenty of water. 

• Take extra breaks during extreme weather 

events. Adjust the work routine to minimize 

exposure to extreme heat and humidity.

• Take adequate garments for all possible 

weather conditions. Choose clothing that will 

keep you warm even if it gets wet.

Hazard trees Being struck by falling trees or 

branches

• Look up. Be alert for widow-makers, storm 

damaged trees with large broken limbs, and 

unstable standing dead trees. 

• Do not spend extended time in an area with 

hazard trees.

Carrying a pack 

and other 

equipment

Injuries from improper packing, 

adjustment, and lifting of backpacks.

Injuries from improper carrying of 

gear

• Learn how to properly pack, adjust, lift, and 

carry a pack.

• When hand-carrying gear, keep one hand 

free.

• If carrying long equipment, be aware of other 

people and never swing around quickly. 

Avoid allowing a long piece of equipment to 

project up and behind you, where you cannot 

see it.
SOP 1 – Safety

68

Appendix S1.B Job Safety Analysis (continued).

General operation 

of a vehicle

Injuries from vehicle accident;

Damage to vehicle

• Perform pre-operational check of vehicle 

(oil, tire pressure, tire condition, fluids, 

wipers, brakes, lights, gas, etc.). Report all 

needed repairs to the crew leader or 

supervisor promptly.

• Do not use the vehicle if it is unsafe.

• Wear seat belts with shoulder harnesses 

whenever vehicle is in motion.

• Do not use cell phones or text while driving.

• Only NPS employees, volunteers or 

authorized cooperators and contractors are 

allowed to operate or ride in a government 

vehicle.

• Ensure full visibility from all windows and 

mirrors. Clean windshield regularly.

• Always ride inside the vehicle.

• Properly store and secure all tools, 

equipment, and cargo so that they will not 

shift during sudden starts or stops.

• Plan your travel before you start. Know your 

route.

• Practice defensive driving; be alert to 

potential hazards.

• Obey all traffic laws and speed limits. 

• Adjust speed to changing weather or traffic 

conditions

• Allow adequate following/stopping distance.

• Avoid distractions such as eating while 

driving.

• Be alert for pedestrians or bicyclists using 

roadways.

• Be watchful for wildlife crossing roads, 

especially at early morning, dusk, and after 

dark.

• Do NOT drive if fatigued. Stay alert!
SOP 1 – Safety

69

Appendix S1.C - Safety Forms

Safety Acknowledgment Form

By signing below, I certify that I have read the safety section of the Volunteer Training Manual and 

the Breeding Landbird Monitoring Job Safety Analysis. I have shared any safety concerns or 

suggestions with the Project Manager and they have been addressed to my satisfaction.

Print Name: ___________________________________________

Signature: _____________________________________________

Date: __________________________________________________

Please return this form, along with the completed and signed NPS Agreement for Individual 

Voluntary Services, to:

Steve Faccio

VCE

PO Box 420

Norwich, VT 05055

These forms only need to be completed once for each volunteer, prior to any field monitoring 

activities. An annual review of the Volunteer Training Manual and Job Safety Analysis is 

recommended for all volunteers. 
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.C Safety Forms (continued).

70

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Safety Checklist

One month to one week before field work

Complete volunteer form and JSA acknowledgment and return to Project Manager (one-time 

requirement)

Contact park Resource Manager and Project Manager with planned survey dates

Discuss safety issues and bring up any concerns with Resource Manager and Project Manager, 

including:

Safety and emergency procedures

Emergency contact(s)

Assistance finding monitoring partner

Verify that you have needed gear, including:

Clipboard, data sheets, timer, pens/pencils

Cell phone or other communication device (e.g., SPOT GPS Messenger at Acadia)

Suitable field clothes and personal gear (e.g., insect repellent, food, water, rain gear)

First aid kit (highly recommended)

One-two days before field work

Complete trip plan and send it to the park resource manager or designated individual

If using SPOT GPS Messenger and Personal Locator Beacon at ACAD, check out the equipment and 

review procedures, and send trip plan to NETN staff responsible for tracking traffic from these 

devices

Verify that the trip plan has been received

Check weather forecast and adjust plans accordingly

Day of field work

Notify park Resource Manager or designated individual of any changes to your plans

Check in on arrival (if requested by park resource manager or designated individual)

Conduct field work

Check in after field work – DO NOT FORGET!
SOP 1 – Safety

Appendix S1.C Safety Forms (continued).

71

Breeding Landbird Monitoring Trip Plan

This form must be completed and e-mailed to the park resource manager (or other designated 

individual) in advance of your monitoring trip. If you are monitoring a study site at Acadia and will 

be borrowing the NETN SPOT GPS Messenger and Personal Locator Beacon, NETN staff will need 

a copy of this trip plan and contact information for the individual who will be serving as your official 

check-in.

Name of monitor:_____________________________________________________

Cell phone number: _______ - _______ - ____________

Home phone number: _______ - _______ - ____________

Name of monitoring partner:____________________________________________

Partner cell phone number: _______ - _______ - ____________

Partner home phone number: _______ - _______ - ____________

Date of trip:____________________________

Start time:_____________________________

End time:______________________________

Check-in time:______________________________

Warning: if you do not check in by this time, an attempt will be made to reach you by phone; if 

you do not respond, emergency services will be notified. Do not forget to check in!

Vehicle make, model, and license plate:_____________________________________________

Planned parking location(s):______________________________________________________

Study site to be monitored:_______________________________________________________

Note: the person receiving this trip plan must have a map of the study site route.

SOP 1 – Safety

73

Appendix S1.D - Directions to Nearest Hospital from Each Park

Northeast Temperate Network

Acadia National Park– Headquarters

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Headquarters building (A) in Acadia National Park and 

end at the Mount Desert Island Hospital (B) in Bar Harbor, Maine. Destination is 1.6 miles and 

five minutes away.

Phone Number: (207) 288-5081. 

Location: 10 Wayman Lane, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Directions: 

1. Head East (turn right) on Eagle Lake Road/ ME- 233 toward Arata Drive. Continue 

to follow ME-233 for 1.3 miles

2. ME-233 turns right and becomes Main St./ ME -3. Continue for 0.2 miles.

3. Turn left at Wayman Ln. MDI Hospital will be on the left (115 ft). 

Figure S1.D.1. The route from Acadia NP Headquarters to the Mount Desert Island Hospital in Bar 

Harbor, Maine.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

74

Acadia National Park– Seawall

Directions to nearest health clinic start at the Seawall Park Housing (A) in Acadia National Park 

and end at the Community Health Center (B) in Southwest Harbor, Maine. This clinic has been 

good for treating Lyme disease, but does not have emergency services. Destination is 2.3 miles and 

four minutes away.

Phone Number: (207) 244-5630.

Location: 9 Village Green Way, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679

Directions:

1. Head east on ME-102 Alt N/Seawall Road toward Seascape Ln for 2.2 miles.

2. Turn right onto ME-102 N/ Main St. and go 0.7 mi.

3. Turn left onto Village Green Way and go 0.1 mi. Community Health Clinic is at 9 Village Green 

Way.

Figure S1.D.2. The route from Seawall Campground (A) to the Community Health Center (B) in 

Southwest Harbor, Maine.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

75

Acadia National Park– Schoodic

Directions to nearest health clinic start at the Schoodic Education and Research Center Entrance

(A) in Acadia National Park and end at the Eleanor Eidener Dixon Memorial Clinic (B) in 

Gouldsboro, Maine. Destination is 11.5 miles and 24 minutes away.

Phone Number: (207) 963-4066.

Location: 37 Clinic Road, Gouldsboro, ME 04607

Directions:

1. Head south out of parking lot and go about 240 feet.

2. Take the 1st left and go 0.1 miles.

3. Turn left toward Moore Rd and follow 3.3 miles.

4. Continue straight onto Moore Rd for 1.5 miles.

5. Turn left onto ME-186 W/Main St and proceed 0.6 miles.

6. Turn right onto ME-186 W/Newman St and follow for 6.0 miles.

7. Continue onto Clinic Rd and go 0.1 miles. Clinic will be on the left.

Figure S1.D.3. The route from Schoodic Education and Research Center (A) in Acadia National Park to 

Eleanor Widener Dixon Memorial Clinic (B) in Gouldsboro, Maine.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

76

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park

The nearest hospital to Woodstock, Vermont is Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) in 

Lebanon, New Hampshire, and is about 22 miles and 31 minutes away. Directions to nearest 

hospital start at the Billings Farm parking lot (A) in Woodstock, Vermont and end at the 

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (B) in Lebanon, New Hampshire:

Phone Number: (603) 650-5000 

Location: 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH.

Directions: 

1. From the Billings-Farm parking lot, turn left at the Y onto Elm Street/ VT-12. Continue for 0.4 

miles.

2. Turn left at Pleasant St./ VT-12. Continue for 0.6 miles.

3. Turn left at US-4/VT-12/Woodstock Rd. Continue to follow US-4 for 9.4 miles.

4. Turn right and go 0.1 miles. 

5. Take the ramp onto 1-89 South and go 8.1 miles.

6. Take exit 18 for NH-120 toward Hanover and go 0.2 miles.

7. Turn left at Centerra Pkwy/Lahaye Drive and continue on Lahaye Drive for 0.5 miles.

8. Turn right at the Hitchcock Loop Road/ Medical Center Drive and continue for 0.3 miles.

9. Turn left at DHMC East Entrance, and turn right to stay on DHMC East Entrance. 

Figure S1.D.4. Route from Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP in Woodstock, Vermont to Dartmouth 

Hitchcock Hospital in Lebanon, New Hampshire.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

77

Minute Man National Historical Park

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Brooks Village parking lot (A) on 2A (N Great Road) in 

Minute Man National Historical Park, and end at Emerson Hospital. Destination is 3.9 miles and 

about 8 minutes away:

Phone Number: (978) 369-1400

Location: 133 Old Road to 9 Acre Corner, Concord, MA 01742.

Directions: 

1. Head west on Massachusetts 2A W/N Great Road/ Lexington Rd. toward Brooks Road. Continue 

for 3.8 miles.

2. Turn left onto Old Road to 9 Acre Corner. Destination will be on left side of road.

Figure S1.D.5. Route from Minute Man NHP Brooks Village parking lot in Concord, Massachusetts to 

Emerson Hospital, also in Concord. 
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

78

Morristown National Historical Park

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center (A) in Morristown National 

Historical Park, and end at Morristown Memorial Hospital (B). Destination is 6.5 miles and about 

18 minutes away:

Phone Number: (973) 971-5000.

Location: 100 Madison Ave, Morristown, NJ 07962.

Directions: 

1. Head northwest on Cemetary Rd. toward Sugarloaf Rd. Continue 1.2 miles.

2. Turn left at Sugarloaf Rd. Continue 1.3 miles

3. Turn left on Jockey Hollow Rd. Continue 0.8 miles

4. Continue on Western Ave. Continue 1.9 miles.

5. Turn right on NJ-124/ Washington St. Continue 0.2 miles.

6. Continue on NJ-124/ South St. for 0.7 miles.

7. Turn slight left at Madison Ave/ NJ-53. Continue 0.5 miles. Destination is on the left.

Figure S1.D.6. Route from Morristorn NHP Jockey Hollow Visitor Center to the Morristown Memorial 

Hospital, both in Morristown, New Jersey.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

79

Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Sites (ELRO, HOFR, VAMA)

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Visitor Center parking lot (A) at the Home of FDR 

National Historic Site, and end at St. Francis Hospital (B). Destination is 4.8 miles and about 9 

minutes away:

Phone Number: (845) 483-5000.

Location: 241 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.

Directions: 

1. Head south on Albany Post Rd./ Rte-9/ US-9 toward Kessler Dr. Continue for 3.7 miles.

2. Turn left onto Delafield St. Continue for 0.2 miles.

3. Turn left onto Spruce St. Continue for 308 ft.

4. Spruce St. turns right and becomes Talmadge St. Continue 

for 0.2 miles.

5. Turn left at NY-9G/ Washington St. Continue for 0.4 miles.

6. Destination is on the right side of Washington St.

Figure S1.D.9. The entire 

route.

Figure S1.D.7. 

Start point at Home 

of FDR NHS Visitor 

Center parking lot.

Figure S1.D.8. 

End point at St. 

Francis Hospital.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

80

Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site (Option 1)

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Visitor Center parking lot (A) at Saint-Gaudens National 

Historic Site, and end at Mount Ascutney Hospital (B). Destination is 3.8 miles and about 10 

minutes away:

Phone Number: (802) 674-6711.

Location: 289 County Road, Windsor, VT 05089.

Directions: 

1. Head southwest on St. Gaudens Rd. toward NH-12A/ NH Rte 12A/ Wilson Rd. Continue for 0.6 

miles.

2. Take a slight left at NH-12A/ NH Rte 12A/ Wilson Rd, and continue for 1.5 miles.

3. Turn right onto Bridge St. and continue for 0.3 miles.

4. Turn left on State St. and go 0.7 miles.

5. Turn right at County Rd. and go 0.3 miles. 

6. Destination is on the left side of County Rd. 

Figure S1.D.10. Option 1 route from Saint-Gaudens NHS Visitor Center parking lot to Mount Ascutney 

Hospital.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

81

Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site (Option B)

An alternative to Mount Ascutney Hospital is the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, 

New Hampshire. For injuries that are not life-threatening, DHMC is the better option. Directions to 

DHMC start at the Visitor Center parking lot (A) at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, and end at 

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH (B). Destination is 19.5 miles and about 33 

minutes away:

Phone Number: (603) 650-5000 

Location: 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH.

Directions: 

1. Head southwest on St. Gaudens Road toward NH-12A/NH Route 12A/ Wilson Rd. Continue for 1 

mile.

2. Turn sharp right at NH-12A/NH Route 12A/ Wilson Road, and continue on NH-12A for 11.4 

miles.

3. Merge onto I-89 S via the ramp to Concord/Lebabon and go 3.8 miles.

4. Take exit 18 for NH-129 toward Hanover and go 0.2 miles. 

5. Turn left at Centerra Pkwy/Lahaye Drive and continue on Lahaye Drive for 0.5 miles.

6. Turn right at the Hitchcock Loop Road/ Medical 

Center Drive and continue for 0.3 miles.

7. Turn left at DHMC East Entrance, and turn right to 

stay on DHMC East Entrance. 

Figure S1.D.11. Option 2 route from 

Saint-Gaudens NHS to Dartmouth 

Hitchcock Medical Center.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

82

Saratoga National Historical Park

Directions to nearest hospital start at the Saratoga National Historical Park entrance on NY-32

(A), and end at Saratoga Hospital (B). Destination is 11.6 miles and about 24 minutes away.

Phone Number: (518) 587-3222

Location:.211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Directions: 

1. Turn right onto NY-32 N and go 0.8 mi.

2. Turn left onto Co Rd 71 and go 1.5 mi.

3. Turn right onto Sweer Rd. and go 1.4 mi.

4. Continue on Nielson Road for 0.9 mi.

5. Turn right onto Chapman Hill Rd and go 0.5 mi.

6. Continue onto Fitch Rd.

7. Turn right onyo New York 9P N and continue 2.2 mi.

8. Turn right onto Gilbert Rd. and go 1.3 mi.

9. Turn left onto Lake Ave. and go 2.1 mi.

10 Continue onto Church Street. After 0.6 mi, destination will be on the right.

Figure S1.D.12. Route from Saratoga NHP entrance on NY-32 to Saratoga Hospital.
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

83

Weir Farm National Historic Site

Directions to nearest hospital start at Weir Farm National Historic Site on Nod Hill Road (A), and 

end at Danbury Hospital (B). Destination is 12.2 miles and about 22 minutes away.

Phone Number: (203) 739-7000

Location: 24 Hospital Avenue, Danbury, CT 06810.

Directions:

1. Exit park North onto Nod Hill Road. Head North on Nod Hill 

Road toward Pelham Ln. Continue for 0.7 miles.

2. Turn right at Old Branchville Rd, and continue 0.5 miles

3. Turn right at Branchville Rd/CT-102, and continue 0.3 miles.

4. Turn left at Danbury Norwalk Rd/US-7 Continue to follow US-7 

for 8.6 miles

5. Take the exit onto 1-84 E/ US-7 N toward New 

Milford/Waterbury and continue for 1.7 miles.

6. Take exit 5 toward CT-37/Bethel/CT-39/CT-53. Go 0.2 miles.

7. Merge onto Downs St. and go 0.7 miles.

8. Continue on CT-37/North St. / Rte-37 for 0.7 miles

9. Turn right at Hayestown Avenue and go 0.3 miles.

10. Turn right at Tamarack Avenue and go 0.6 miles.

11. Turn left at Hospital Avenue.

Figure S1.D.13. Route from 

Weir Farm NHS to Danbury 

Hospital.

Figure S1.D.14. End point at Danbury Hospital
SOP 1- Safety

Appendix S1.D. Directions to nearest hospital from each park (continued).

84
Appendix A. List of potential species for each NETN park/BCR and their PIF Continental and/or 

Regional Importance Rank, and Conservation Action Priority (continued). 

85

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 February 2012 Brian Mitchell New SOP Safety requirements

1.01 December 2012 Brian Mitchell Minor edits, update MIMA hospital 

and directions

Lou Sideris sent info for 

a better hospital.

1.02 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Removed references to project 

management by VCE, replaced 

with “Project Manager”.

Make SOP more 

general for future use.

87

SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics 

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 1.09

Overview

Because this is a volunteer-based monitoring program, the most important preparation prior to the 

field season is to ensure that skilled volunteer personnel are trained and available to accomplish the 

field work. Prior to the field season each year, preferably in March or April, the project manager 

should contact volunteer observers to determine the number participating and whether additional 

volunteers will need to be recruited (for volunteer recruitment & training, see SOP 3 - Recruiting and

Training Volunteers). If suitable numbers of volunteers cannot be found and funding permits, the 

Project Manager may offer some volunteers a small stipend to reimburse them for their time 

commitment. 

By 10 May each year, the Project Manager will prepare a mailing to all volunteer observers that will 

include the following items:

• Volunteer Training Manual

• Field mapping cards and data coding sheets (for examples, see SOP 5 - Conducting Variable 

Circular Plot Point Counts) for the upcoming field season

• List of point count stations and GPS waypoints assigned to each observer

• Written directions, map, and compass bearings to locate point count stations

• Blue flagging for updating study site route markings

• Field season completion checklist (SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers)-

• Any recent summaries or reports resulting from the breeding landbird monitoring program

• Cover letter thanking them for participating in the breeding landbird monitoring program, 

reminding them of the monitoring window dates and starting times, and encouraging them to

review the protocol, including relevant SOPs, prior to the field season. It is particularly 

important that observers review breeding landbird identification by sight and sound (SOP 3 -

Recruiting and Training Volunteers), since misidentification of a species is perhaps the most 

serious error observers can make during a breeding landbird count. Misidentification is much 

more serious than errors in estimating distances or double-counting a bird

• Copy of monitoring permit for their park, which volunteers must carry with them in the field
SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics

88

National Park Service (NPS) staff at each park will also be responsible for acquiring any necessary 

clearances for volunteers, notifying park security if need be, or otherwise ensuring that observers 

have access to park property during early morning hours (ca. 0400 - 0430 hours) in order to arrive at 

their first point count station at approximately 0500 hours.

Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) staff will be responsible for obtaining a research permit at 

each park. Most NETN parks have issued 10-year permits to cover monitoring activities, but the 

permit for ACAD must be renewed each year.

Two weeks before the end of the monitoring window, the Project Manager will contact all of the 

volunteers to find out if they have been able to monitor their assigned study site(s). If a volunteer is 

having difficulty finding time to monitor their site, the Project Manager will ask another nearby 

volunteer if they can monitor the site (in return for a stipend for their time), or will look into other 

alternatives for getting the study site monitored.

Volunteers will be contacted again immediately after the monitoring window, to verify that study 

sites were monitored and to remind volunteers that data should be entered within one month of 

monitoring. The project manager will follow up with volunteers after a month, and request that all 

data sheets be mailed in, even if the data have not been entered online.
SOP 2 - Field Season Logistics

89

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 January 2006 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 

2006 field season.

1.01 April 2006 Brian Mitchell Added revision log.

1.02 April 2008 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Project Manager may offer 

some volunteers a stipend, if 

funding permits.

Added information about 

permits.

1.03 December 

2008

Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Minor editorial changes.

1.04 February 2009 Steve Faccio Added Field Season 

Completion Checklist as 

Appendix 1.1 and changed

Revision Log to Appendix 1.2.

1.05 April 2009 Steve Faccio Incorporated reviewer 

comments into Field Season 

Checklist.

1.06 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial 

changes.

1.07 May 2010 Brian Mitchell Move completion checklist to 

SOP 2 [Now SOP 3]

1.08 March 2011 Brian Mitchell Add mid-season and immediate 

post-season contact with 

volunteers.

Annual protocol review; 

improve volunteer 

management.

1.09 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Removed reference to early 

data entry appreciation gifts.

Data should be entered within a 

month of monitoring; all data 

sheets should be mailed to 

project manager after a month.

Removed references to project 

management by VCE, replaced 

with “Project Manager”.

Not allowed by DOI policy.

Speed up data entry.

Make SOP more general 

for future use.

91

SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers 

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 2.05

Overview

This Standard Operating Procedure explains how to recruit volunteer observers and the training 

procedures that all observers should follow to learn to identify breeding landbirds by sight and sound, 

and to estimate distances in the field.

Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) staff will be responsible for obtaining a research permit at 

each park. Most NETN parks have issued 10-year permits to cover monitoring activities, but the 

permit for ACAD must be renewed each year.

Recruiting Volunteer Observers

Volunteer observers will be recruited from a variety of local sources, including bird clubs, Audubon 

Chapters, birding listservs, and via state BBS coordinators. Verifying potential participants’ bird 

identification skills is very important, but testing multiple applicants is difficult, time consuming, and 

therefore costly. 

The Vermont Forest Bird Monitoring Program (FBMP) has relied on word-of-mouth 

recommendations of local birders, as well as self-evaluation based on a description of the necessary 

abilities. More recently, the FBMP has developed a simple, self-administered, online auditory Bird 

Identification Quiz to help determine if potential observers have the necessary skills to participate in 

the program (http://www.vtecostudies.org/FBMP/birdquiz.html). 

Development of a more elaborate quiz that could be adjusted for geographic region within the 

NETN, as well as habitat being surveyed (e.g., forest, grassland), would be a cost-effective tool with 

which the project manager could evaluate participants’ breeding landbird identification abilities. In 

addition, it would provide potential observers with a way to self-evaluate their own identification 

skills. The NETN and the Project Manager are actively pursuing tools for ensuring birder skills, 

including supporting the extension of a web-based birder certification program to the northeast. This 

site (http://www.birdercertification.org) has been improved to the point that it is worth pilot testing as 

a tool for testing volunteers. Beginning in 2011, volunteers will be encouraged to take the tests on 

this site and obtain certification. Volunteers may be required to obtain certification through this site 

in the future, as the site becomes more complete and reliable.

Training Volunteer Observers

The most essential component for the collection of credible, high-quality breeding landbird data is 

well-trained and experienced observers. This cannot be overemphasized. In order to participate,

volunteer observers must already possess a high degree of skill in bird identification. Therefore, little 

training is needed in this area. However, new volunteers will be provided with a list of breeding 

landbird species previously detected at the study site or park in which they will 
SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers

92

be surveying so they can familiarize themselves with the identification of any problematic species 

prior to the start of the survey period. Although observers will be experienced in the identification of 

breeding landbirds, many will have little or no experience in estimating distances to vocalizing birds. 

Because it is not realistic to expect volunteers from all parks to be able to attend a training session on 

estimating distances to vocalizing birds, and it is not economically feasible to offer training sessions 

at each Network park, volunteers will be provided with written training procedures and asked to 

practice distance estimation at their study site or in a habitat similar to the one in which they will be

surveying. Volunteers will also be encouraged to use the NETN Google Earth portal 

(http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/NETN/googleMaps/parkMaps_GoogleEarth_flash.cfm) for 

gaining familiarity with their study site route.

To facilitate training, each volunteer will receive a Volunteer Training Manual (available on the 

NETN website), which provides background on the project, including goals and objectives, sampling 

design, and survey assumptions, and outlines the procedures for conducting point counts, selftraining in distance estimation, use of map and compass, and data entry procedures.

Observers will also be sent a checklist (Figure S3.1) that lists key training and data management 

steps. They will be asked to initial each step to certify that they have followed the recommended 

procedures.

Other Aspects of Training

Park or NETN staff will ensure that volunteers are provided with, and are comfortable using, 

equipment needed while they are in the field, including GPS navigation and emergency 

communication equipment (e.g., park radios or cell phones). Volunteers will be encouraged to 

practice using navigation equipment and will also be encouraged to locate their point count stations 

during the day before their official counts. This will allow them to gain familiarity with the point 

count locations and save time when they are conducting their counts.

Legal and Legislative Requirements

Prior to engaging in any training or field activities for the National Park Service volunteers must 

complete a Volunteer Services Agreement (OMB 0596-0080). The signed agreement provides 

workman’s compensation in the event that the individual is injured while engaged in his/her 

volunteer duties. Volunteer agreements can be obtained from the park or project leader and should be 

filed with the park the volunteer will be conducting surveys for. In the case where a volunteer will be 

conducting surveys at multiple parks, separate agreements should be filled out for each park. 

To comply with the Privacy Act, no personal information (name or contact information) from park 

visitors or untrained volunteers will be collected by network staff. All volunteers engaged in this 

protocol will receive training and sign a Volunteer Services Agreement, which the Project Manager 

will forward to the appropriate park. The coordination of the trained volunteers will be handled by 

the contracted project leader, not NETN staff. Data received by NETN from the project coordinator 

will include observers’ names and some additional information (such as an assessment of the 

observer’s abilities and years when each person participated in the monitoring program) but will not 

include personal details like contact information and date of birth.
SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers

93

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, approval must be obtained from OMB 

prior to collection of data from park visitors, and renewed every 3 years. PRA applies only to onetime observations from park visitors, not to data collected by trained volunteers with an ongoing 

relationship with the park (i.e., participants in the NPS “Volunteer in Parks” program). Since NETN 

only uses trained volunteers, this protocol is in compliance with all requirements of the PRA.
SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers

94

Name_______________________________ Park________________________________

Initials Date TASK When to Accomplish

1 Read/review Volunteer Training Manual 

and Job Safety Analysis

Mid- to late-May

2 Complete and sign NPS Agreement for 

Individual Voluntary Services form and 

the separate Safety Acknowledgment; 

Steve must have these documents 

before you can go into the field

Mid- to late-May 

(if not on file from 

previous year)

3 Practice distance estimation as outlined 

in Volunteer Training Manual

Mid- to late-May

4 Brush-up on breeding landbird songs in 

the field or with recordings

Mid- to late-May

5 Conduct first field survey (last week of 

May surveys are acceptable at MORR 

and WEFA)

1-15 June

6 Conduct second field survey (optional 

at some parks)

15-30 June

7 Transcribe data from Field Mapping 

Cards onto Data Coding Sheets

Within 1 day of 

conducting field survey

8 Make photocopies of Field Mapping 

Cards and Data Coding Sheets and 

mail originals to VCE (address below). 

Retain copies for use in data entry.

Within 3 days of 

conducting last field 

survey.

9 Enter field data into Bird Point Count 

Database and return this sheet to VCE 

(address below). 

No later than 31 July

10 Total up volunteer hours contributed to 

project this season and enter below.

No later than 31 July

TOTAL VOLUNTEER HOURS:

Comments:

Mail to: Steve Faccio

VCE

PO Box 420

Norwich, VT 05055

Figure S3.1. Field Season Completion Checklist. This checklist is an important part of our quality control 

procedures. Please initial and date each task as it is completed, and return this sheet once data entry is 

complete (by 15 August).
SOP 3 - Recruiting and Training Volunteers

95

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 January 2006 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 2006 

field season.

1.01 April 2006 Brian Mitchell Added revision log.

Clairified reference to Appendix 1; 

now refers to protocol narrative.

1.02 December 2008 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

Inserted section on Training 

Volunteers, moved section on 

estimatingdistances to Appendix 

2.1, and changed Revision Log to 

Appendix 2.2.

1.03 February 2009 Steve Faccio Added Volunteer Training Manual 

as Appendix 2.2 and chanced 

Revision Log to Appendix 2.3.

1.04 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial 

changes.

2.00 February 2010 Adam 

Kozlowski and 

Brian Mitchell

Significant revision to Volunteer 

Training Manual to reflect 

streamlined field procedures and 

updated data management 

procedures. Updated survey 

procedures and added mammal 

data coding sheet. Added 

volunteer data management 

responsibilities appendix.

Changes to reflect 

efforts to simplify field 

data collection and 

improve data 

management 

procedures.

2.01 March 2010 Steve Faccio Minor editorial changes during 

review. Volunteer training manual 

is now a separate document, not 

an appendix.

2.02 March 2011 Brian Mitchell Updated information on birder 

certification web site and added 

reference to NETN Google Earth 

portal. Added note about early 

data submission reward to 

checklist.

Annual procedure 

review; ideas to improve 

volunteer training and 

management.

2.03 May 2011 Adam 

Kozlowski and 

Brian Mitchell

Added information on volunteer 

agreements and compliance with 

the Privacy Act and Paperwork 

Reduction Act.

Use of volunteers 

requires we include this 

information.

2.04 February 2012 Brian Mitchell Revised checklist; volunteer 

agreement and safety 

acknowledgment must be received 

prior to any field work

Safety requirement

2.05 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Removed references to project 

management by VCE, replaced 

with “Project Manager”.

Revised completion checklist to 

adjust dates and remove mention 

of early submission rewards

Make SOP more 

general for future use

Match current 

procedures

97

SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 2.05

Overview

This SOP explains the procedure for establishing and marking point count stations.

Procedures

Establishing Point Count Stations

In locating study point count stations, four basic criteria were established: 1) point counts should be 

spaced approximately 200-250 m apart to avoid duplicate sampling while permitting observers to 

move efficiently between points; 2) points should be located at least 50 m from forest edges in order 

to maximize sampling effort on focal species and avoid fragmentation effects; 3) points should be 

located within the dominant, mature forest cover types found in each park; and 4) at least one forest 

vegetation sampling plot per study site should be co-located within 50 m of a point count so that 

future changes in breeding landbird populations can be compared with broad changes to forest 

structure, composition, and other variables. In addition, point count stations should be located at least 

15 m away from hiking trails and interpretive signing, and at least 50 m from park boundaries, roads, 

buildings, and other areas frequented by the public. To meet these criteria, point count stations were 

selected in four ways:

1. A systematic grid was used at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP (MABI), Minute Man NHP 

(MIMA), Morristown NHP (MORR), Roosevelt-Vanderbilt park units (ROVA), Saint-Gaudens NHS 

(SAGA), Saratoga NHP (SARA), and Weir Farm NHS (WEFA).

2. At Acadia NP (ACAD) sites were required to have a central station within 50 m of a long-term 

forest monitoring plot, and randomly selected using the Generalized Random Tesselation Stratified 

(GRTS) algorithm (Stevens 1997, Stevens and Olsen 2004). The sites were selected to be accessible 

to volunteers (within 1.5 km of a road, with a slope less than 30%), and with all stations within the 

same large (> 100 ha) block of contiguous forest habitat (as defined by broad vegetation type on the 

Acadia National Park vegetation map).

3. At SARA, study sites were also established within grasslands since this habitat type represents a 

significant component of the natural communities at that park.

4. At SAIR, the small size of the park prevented us from using the methods describe above. Two 

point stations separated by 250 m were established along the Saugus River and within the park 

boundary in consultation with the park’s resource manager. A third station was established between 

the two in order to provide a chance to record additional species, although most analyses will exclude 

this point due to the potential for double-counting individuals recorded at the two other points.

Additional details of the sampling design are presented in the protocol narrative.
SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations

98

Marking Point Count Stations

It is critical that observers be able to move quickly from one point to the next in order to complete 

their survey before breeding landbird activity slows down at around 0900 hours. Therefore, each 

point count station must be identified with both a permanent (aluminum tree tag) and visible marker 

(flagging tape) in order to facilitate their timely location by volunteer observers (Figure S4.1). In 

addition, a small amount of flagging spaced every 25 to 100 m (depending on density of habitat and 

therefore an observer’s ability to maintain a compass bearing) in between stations will be necessary 

to help guide observers to the next listening station. This is especially important since GPS is not 

always reliable under the forest canopy in summer. Point count stations and flagging will be located 

at least 15 m away from hiking trails and interpretive signing, and at least 50 m from park roads, 

buildings, and other areas frequented by the public.

While it is possible that the flagging at each point count could be removed after surveys are 

completed, and re-flagged prior to conducting surveys the following year, that would require 

additional volunteer time. Such an expectation may not be feasible for all volunteers, especially if 

they live any distance from the park, and may reduce the pool of potential observers, which is already 

fairly small due to the high level of skill necessary to participate. Unless park staff are willing to 

commit to re-flagging each year, the preference is to leave flagging up year-round, and have 

volunteer observers replace it when necessary during the course of their surveys.

Point count stations in grassland habitat at SARA should be located using a GPS unit while 

conducting breeding landbird surveys. The high accuracy of GPS in open habitats eliminates the need 

for permanent marking of each point.

Beginning in 2008, point counts and study site routes in ACAD were permanently marked with metal 

trail signs and “fire tacks” (Figure S4.2). Fire tacks are small, but highly reflective, and should help 

volunteers navigate between point counts with a flashlight or headlamp in low light. Point counts 

were marked with metal signs and flagging, while routes between points were marked every 20-25 m 

with signs (no flagging). This marking method was expanded to the other NETN parks in 2012.
SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations

99

Figure S4.1. Example of point count markers—aluminum tree tag and flagging tape.

Figure S4.2. Example of metal signs used at ACAD to mark point count stations. A reflective “fire tack” is 

visible at the left edge of the tree even with the top of the sign. Routes between point counts are marked 

similarly, but without flagging.
SOP 4 - Establishing and Marking Point Count Stations

100

Point Count Station Maps and Directions

Park maps indicating point count stations and station ID numbers will be printed and mailed to each 

observer prior to the start of the field season to assist them in navigating from point to point. 

Observers will also be provided with specific instructions for surveying their study site. Complete 

study site route information and coordinates for each park can be downloaded from the breeding 

landbird volunteer materials section on IRMA here: 

https://irma.nps.gov/App/Reference/Profile/2190230. All study site route information is also 

available through each park’s Google Earth module, which can be accessed through NETN’s website 

here: http://science.nature.nps.gov/im/units/netn/googleMaps/googleEarth_NETN.cfm. 

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 January 2006 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 2006 

field season.

2.00 April 2007 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

SOP used beginning with the 2007 

field season

Added revision log.

Sites and stations for ACAD are 

completely new, based on revised 

sampling design.

Additional sites added

Sampling design section clarified, and 

information about ACAD design 

added.

Reference to narrative added, in 

regards to additional information on 

sampling design.

2.01 May 2008 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

SOP used beginning with the 2008 

field season

Added information about site selection 

at SAIR, plus SAIR map and 

coordinates

Added information about new route 

marking methods at ACAD

Added updated ACAD maps and 

coordinates

2.02 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial changes.

2.03 May 2010 Brian Mitchell Addition of ACAD Youngs Mountain 

map and station locations; correction 

of a location error for one ACAD 

station

2.04 May 2011 Brian Mitchell Addition of directions for most study 

site routes.

2.05 December 

2012

Brian Mitchell Study site route info moved to standalone document posted on web site

Study site routes updated with signs and 

fire tacks at all parks.

“Sampling Points” replaced with “Point 

Count Stations” in title and elsewhere.

Too much extraneous 

material in protocol itself.

Easier navigation for 

volunteers.

Need to use consistent

terminology.
101

SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 2.04

Overview

This SOP provides step-by-step instructions for conducting the recommended 10 minute variable 

circular plot point count. For each breeding landbird observed, the time (minute of the count) and 

distance band (0-10 m, 10-25 m, 25-50 m, and > 50 m) will be recorded. The methodology is largely 

based on songbird monitoring protocols developed for the Lower Mississippi Valley Joint Venture, 

available at www.lmvjv.org/population_monitoring. In addition, other than differences in distance 

bands, the procedures described below are compatible with methods used by the Great Lakes 

Network (GLKN) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in the Northeast and 

Midwest. The other programs do not use the 0-10-m band, but do use a 50-100 m band. The 

Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) does not use this larger distance band due to the inability of 

observers to accurately estimate distances beyond 50 m. The 0-10 m band is used due to the 

recommendation of Buckland et al. (1993), who suggest that the size of the distance bands should 

increase as they move away from the observer rather than be equal. NETN, USFWS, and GLKN data 

are comparable for distance analysis using 0-25, 25-50, and 50 m + bands.

Each volunteer observer will receive a Volunteer Training Manual (available for download on the 

NETN website) outlining the point count procedures in this SOP, as well as training methods for 

distance estimation, and how to navigate by map and compass.

The data being collected during point counts (Table S5.1) will be analyzed with two different 

methods (distance sampling and removal models), each of which is an independent approach to 

estimating abundance by correcting for the probability of detecting an individual. If we can 

accurately estimate this probability (which can vary by habitat, observer, and other factors), we can 

estimate the number of breeding landbirds that were NOT seen or heard during the point count, and 

derive a better estimate of abundance than we would get using only birds actually seen or heard. It is 

important to understand the assumptions of these methods, and to work to meet these assumptions. 

Both approaches assume that breeding landbirds are correctly identified to species, and that each 

individual is only recorded once. The distance sampling approach further assumes that all breeding 

landbirds at the center point are always detected, and that the distance band recorded is the correct 

distance band. The removal modeling approach assumes that the time recorded for the individual 

breeding landbird is the time it was first heard or seen, and the approach works better with the 

simplifying assumption that observers are equally likely to hear a breeding landbird of a given 

species during every minute (in other words, the observer is just as likely to hear or see a Brown 

Creeper at minute one as he or she is at minute five). 

When observers are collecting data, they should keep in mind that the most important assumptions 

are that breeding landbirds are correctly identified to species, and that each individual is recorded 
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

102

only once. The next most important assumption is that distance estimates are correct. The removal 

modeling assumptions are less important and all other data that are collected (e.g., sex, nest location, 

and whether the bird is singing, calling, or seen) are secondary to the primary goals of getting 

accurate species and distance information. If observers feel that they are unable to meet the 

assumptions of the distance sampling or the removal modeling approaches, they should provide a 

written comment with as much detail as possible when they submit their data forms. This will be a 

tremendous help to the data analysis phase of the project.

Table S5.1. Description of variables recorded at point count stations during Northeast Temperate 

Network breeding landbird monitoring.

Variable Description

Park

Site

Name of park where site is located.

Name of site

Observer Observer identification (e.g., initials).

Date MM/DD/YYYY

Temp  ̊F Temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.

Sky Sky condition, combining cloud cover and precipitation (see Table S5.3).

Wind Wind speed from Beaufort scale (see Table S5.2).

Start Time Time of day; 2400 hour clock (e.g., 0732).

Point # Number of the point within the study site. 

Species Species of breeding landbirds and squirrels observed.

Time Period Minute (9-0) during which a species was observed.

Observation Code Code indicating type of observation (e.g., visual or auditory detection).

Distance Band Distance category from observer that a species was detected within.

Flyovers Birds observed flying over the point count station.

Comments Notes and specific remarks about the count.

Survey Procedures

1. Count Conditions. Counts should be conducted early in the morning and during proper 

survey conditions. We recommend a 0500 hrs start time. Winds should be calm to light (< 7 

mph; Code 2 or less on the Beaufort Scale, Table S5.2). Acceptable weather conditions for 

counting breeding landbirds include a sky condition of 5 or less (although fog should not 

interfere with visual identification of birds; Table S5.3). Clear conditions or slightly damp are 

ideal. Counts should not be conducted in rain, unless it is very light. The rule is to conduct 

surveys only in weather that is unlikely to reduce count numbers. Generally, the more calm 

and clear the weather, the better the count. It is advisable to listen to the forecast the night 

before the survey and plan accordingly. 

Prior to the first point count, fill in the site name, date, and observer name on the field 

mapping card (Figure S5.1). Then, upon arriving at each point count station, record the 

station number, wind speed (Table S5.2), sky conditions (Table S5.3), and temperature 

(degrees Fahrenheit). Prior to beginning the count, orient the field mapping card (Figure 

S5.1) to a fixed direction, record the direction in the box at the top of the count circle, and 

record the start time.
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

103

2. Use Count-down Timer. Begin the count by starting the National Park Service (NPS)-

issued count-down timer to keep track of time. Alternatively, a smart phone with a timer 

function (NOT a stopwatch) can be used; set the timer for 10 minutes and verify that it counts 

towards zero when you start it.

Note: Although the data will be transcribed to coding sheets later, the field mapping card is 

the only true record of what was detected during the survey. Even during the rush of a busy 

point count survey, remember to record data clearly and in a firm hand. When filling out the 

mapping cards make notations in a consistent manner and use the standardized symbols and 

codes as defined on the field forms. 

Table S5.2. Codes and descriptions for wind speeds (Beaufort Scale)1

Code # km/h mph Description

0 <2 <1 Smoke rises vertically

1 2 to 5 1 to 3 Wind direction shown by smoke drift

2 6 to 11 4 to 7 Wind felt on face; leaves rustle

3 12 to 20 8 to 12 Leaves, small twigs in constant motion; light flag extended

4 21 to 32 13 to 18 Small branches are moved

5 33 to 30 19 to 24 Small trees begin to sway

1 These are the same codes used in the Breeding Bird Survey. Acceptable conditions for counting 

breeding landbirds include a wind speed of code 2 or less.

Table S5.3. Codes and descriptions for sky conditions1.

Code# Description

0 Clear or a few clouds

1 Scattered clouds (partly cloudy)

2 Broken clouds or overcast

4 Fog

5 Drizzle or light rain

6 Rain

7 Snow

8 Showers

1 These are the same codes used in the Breeding Bird Survey. Acceptable conditions for counting 

breeding landbirds include a sky condition of 5 or less (although fog should not interfere with visual 

identification of birds).
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

104

Figure S5.1. Example field mapping card, including standardized symbols used to record observations 

made while conducting point counts.
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

105

1. Navigate to Point. Use a GPS or map and compass to navigate to your points. The forest 

study site routes have been marked with signs and fire tacks every 25 to 100 m (depending on 

the density of the vegetation). If any of the markers are worn out or missing, please note the 

location (e.g., fire tack missing mid-way between point 2 and 3) and notify the Project 

Manager.

2. Count (record) All Breeding Landbirds and Squirrels. All breeding landbirds and 

squirrels (see box below) seen and heard during the 10-minute sampling period should be 

counted and recorded on the NPS-issued field mapping card. Be sure to note in which minute 

breeding landbirds are first encountered, using the minute visible on the timer or smart 

phone at the time of detection. This will require close attention to your timer. For each 

breeding landbird detected, record on the field map its four letter code (SOP 5 - Conducting 

Variable Circular Plot Counts, Appendix S5.A) followed by the minute during which it was 

first encountered (i.e., 9 for birds encountered during the first minute counting down to 0 for 

encounters during the last minute of the 10-minute survey period). See Figure S5.1 for a 

sample field card. Remember that the crucial information is species identification, distance 

band, and time of first detection (in that order). No other information is required, although 

recording type of detection (i.e. visual versus calling or singing) may help you track the 

individuals. If multiple individuals of the same species are detected at the same time and 

distance (but are not a flock), use CODExN, where CODE is the 4-letter species code and N 

is the number of individuals. If a flock is detected, use CODExNF. For example, a pair of 

warblers might be “MYWAx2”, while a flock of 30 starlings is “EUSTx30F”.. Breeding 

landbirds that fly through or over the point count station and do not stay within the area of the 

point count do not meet the assumptions of distance or removal models. For these birds, 

record the species code in the top-right corner of the map (these observations are still 

valuable for telling us that the species is in the area).

1. Map Observations. Counting is done by mapping all observations (both visual and 

auditory) on the field mapping cards provided, keeping track of movements as best you can. 

Mapping (marking the location and noting movements) is the best way to reduce duplicate 

records. Mark breeding landbirds on the field card in the appropriate distance band and 

approximate spatial location. The recorded distance should be the horizontal distance 

between the location a bird was first detected and the point count station center. Imagine 

dropping a plumb-bob down from a bird’s location and estimating its distance from the point 

Red squirrels, gray squirrels, and eastern chipmunks are known to be effective nest predators. 

We want to monitor their populations as well as those of forest breeding landbirds. Follow the 

same recording procedures for these mammals as you would for birds, using the following 

four-letter codes:

RESQ—red squirrel

EGSQ—Eastern gray squirrel

CHIP—Eastern chipmunk
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

106

count station center. For species that occur in flocks, record the flock (e.g., species) and flock 

size in the appropriate distance band. There is no need to record each bird in a flock 

individually. Different symbols can be used to record the status of each bird observation (i.e. 

visual observation, calling or singing, etc., Figure S5.1). Use standard species AOU codes to 

identify species observed (four-letter codes can be found in Appendix S5.A, or downloaded 

at http://www.vtecostudies.org/FBMP/materials.html).

2. Orientation. Holding the field mapping card in a fixed position, spend part of the time 

facing in each of the cardinal directions in order to better detect breeding landbirds.

3. Count Individuals Once. Do not record any birds believed to have been counted at 

previous stations. All birds should only be counted once.

4. When to Stop. At the end of 10 minutes, stop recording breeding landbird observations. Do 

not record any new birds seen or heard after the 10 minutes have passed. Before leaving the 

point, check over the field mapping card thoroughly to make sure it is complete and legible. 

Remember, this is the only record of what happened during the survey. Take the time to 

clarify anything illegible or out of the ordinary, and then initial the card. 

5. Sampling Frequency. Each site should be sampled at least once during the breeding 

season, but one or two follow-up, replicate surveys within two weeks of the initial visit will 

be encouraged. The exception to this will be at NETN’s three smallest parks (Saint-Gaudens 

NHS, Saugus Iron Works NHS, and Weir Farm NHS), which, due to their small sizes, can 

only accommodate a few point count stations each. In order to reduce between-year 

variability at these three parks, study sites will be surveyed twice annually, with replicates 

occurring about 7-14 days apart. In order to reduce within- or between-site bias due to time 

of day, each study site will be surveyed in the same order each time (e.g., the order in which 

point counts are surveyed will not be reversed). 

6. Data Transcription. Breeding landbird and mammal data from the field mapping card(s) 

should be transcribed to data coding sheets (Figure S5.2) before they are entered into the

online database. It is not necessary to transcribe data in any particular order (e.g., 

chronologically or taxonomically); it is often easiest to transcribe data one quadrant at 

a time, starting at the upper right quadrant, and working from the innermost distance 

band to the outermost band. Remember, only transcribe the record of a bird or mammal the 

first time you saw or heard it. Each individual you encounter should only be recorded once 

on the summary data coding sheets. After completing each coding sheet, conduct a 100% 

check to look for transcription errors. If you need to correct information on the mapping card 

or data coding sheet (for example, you used the wrong bird code), draw a single line through 

the incorrect data and then enter the correct data next to the original data, along with your 

initials. Sign the data coding sheet indicating the 100% data transcription check has been 

completed.
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

107

7. Using the Online Database. Once proofed, breeding landbird and mammal data recorded 

on data coding sheets should be entered into the Bird Point Count Database 

(http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/index.php). Verify each row of bird data as it is 

entered into the database and conduct a complete check of all data after finishing each data 

coding sheet. Sign the data coding sheet indicating that the 100% data entry check has been 

completed. 

8. Mail Data. After data have been entered into the online database and proofed, and within a 

month of data collection, mail the field mapping cards and the data coding sheets to:

Steve Faccio

Vermont Center for Ecostudies

PO Box 420

Norwich, VT 05055

If it is not possible to enter the data online within a month of the field visit, the field map and 

data coding sheets (even if incomplete) should be mailed to the Project Manager for data 

entry.
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

108

Figure S5.2. Example breeding landbird data coding sheet.
109

Appendix S5.A. Alphabetical list of Vermont Forest Bird Monitoring Program 

species and associated four-letter codes.

Common Name Code Common Name Code

Alder flycatcher ALFL

American crow AMCR Common yellowthroat COYE

American goldfinch AMGO Cooper's hawk COHA

American kestrel AMKE Downy woodpecker DOWO

American redstart AMRE Eastern bluebird EABL

American robin AMRO Eastern chipmunk CHIP

Baltimore oriole BAOR Eastern gray squirrel EGSQ

Bank swallow BANS Eastern kingbird EAKI

Barn swallow BARS Eastern meadowlark EAME

Barred owl BDOW Eastern phoebe EAPH

Bay-breasted warbler BBWA Eastern screech-owl EASO

Belted kingfisher BEKI Eastern towhee EATO

Bicknell's thrush BITH Eastern tufted titmouse ETTI

Black-and-white warbler BAWW Eastern wood-pewee EAWP

Black-backed woodpecker BBWO European starling EUST

Black-billed cuckoo BBCU Evening grosbeak EVGR

Blackburnian warbler BLBW Field sparrow FISP

Black-capped chickadee BCCH Fish crow FICR

Blackpoll warbler BLPW Golden-crowned kinglet GCKI

Black-throated blue warbler BTBW Golden-winged warbler GWWA

Black-throated green warbler BTNW Grasshopper sparrow GRSP

Blue jay BLJA Gray catbird GRCA

Blue-gray gnatcatcher BGGN Gray jay GRAJ

Blue-winged warbler BWWA Great horned owl GHOW

Blue-winged/golden-winged warbler 

complex BWGW Great-crested flycatcher GCFL

Bobolink BOBO Hairy woodpecker HAWO

Boreal chickadee BOCH Henslow's sparrow HESP

Broad-winged hawk BWHA Hermit thrush HETH

Brown creeper BRCR Hooded warbler HOWA

Brown thrasher BRTH House finch HOFI

Brown-headed cowbird BHCO House sparrow HOSP

Canada Goose CANG House wren HOWR

Canada warbler CAWA Indigo bunting INBU

Cape may warbler CMWA Least flycatcher LEFL

Carolina wren CARW Lincoln's sparrow LISP

Cedar waxwing CEDW Louisiana waterthrush LOWA

Cerulean warbler CERW Magnolia warbler MAWA

Chestnut-sided warbler CSWA Marsh wren MAWR

Chimney swift CHSW Mourning dove MODO

Chipping sparrow CHSP Mourning warbler MOWA

Cliff swallow CLSW Myrtle warbler MYWA

Common grackle COGR Nashville warbler NAWA

Common nighthawk CONI Northern cardinal NOCA

Common raven CORA Northern goshawk NOGO
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

110

Common Name Code Common Name Code

Northern harrier NOHA Vesper sparrow VESP

Northern mockingbird NOMO Warbling vireo WAVI

Northern parula NOPA Whip-poor-will WPWI

Northern rough-winged swallow NRWS White-breasted nuthatch WBNU

Northern saw-whet owl NSWO White-throated sparrow WTSP

Northern waterthrush NOWA White-winged crossbill WWCR

Olive-sided flycatcher OSFL Wild turkey WITU

Orchard oriole OROR Willow flycatcher WIFL

Ovenbird OVEN Wilson's warbler WIWA

Philadelphia vireo PHVI Winter wren WIWR

Pileated woodpecker PIWO Wood thrush WOTH

Pine siskin PISI Worm-eating warbler WEWA

Pine warbler PIWA Yellow palm warbler YPWA

Prairie warbler PRAW Yellow warbler YEWA

Prothonotary warbler PROW Yellow-bellied flycatcher YBFL

Purple finch PUFI Yellow-bellied sapsucker YBSA

Purple martin PUMA Yellow-billed cuckoo YBCU

Red crossbill RECR Yellow-shafted flicker YSFL

Red squirrel RESQ Yellow-throated vireo YTVI

Red-bellied woodpecker RBWO

Red-breasted nuthatch RBNU

Red-eyed vireo REVI

Red-headed woodpecker RHWO

Red-shouldered hawk RSHA

Red-tailed hawk RTHA

Red-winged blackbird RWBL

Rose-breasted grosbeak RBGR

Ruby-crowned kinglet RCKI

Ruby-throated hummingbird RTHU

Ruffed grouse RUGR

Rusty blackbird RUBL

Savannah sparrow SAVS

Scarlet tanager SCTA

Sedge wren SEWR

Sharp-shinned hawk SSHA

Slate-colored junco SCJU

Solitary vireo SOVI

Song sparrow SOSP

Swainson's thrush SWTH

Swamp sparrow SWSP

Tennessee warbler TEWA

Three-toed woodpecker TTWO

Tree swallow TRES

Turkey vulture TUVU

Veery VEER
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

111

Appendix S5.A. Alphabetical list of Vermont Forest Bird Monitoring Program species (continued).

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 January 2006 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 2006 

field season.

1.01 May 2007 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

SOP used beginning with the 

2007 field season.

Added revision log.

Clarified distance sampling 

assumptions

Maximum wind speed changed to 

code 2 from code 3.

Need to detect all 

breeding landbirds at 

center point, not 

necessarily all in first 

band. 

1.02 May 2008 Steve Faccio

Brian Mitchell

SOP used beginning with the 2008 

field season

Added information about 

compatibility of this SOP with GLKN 

and USFWS

Added SAIR to the small parks that 

are surveyed twice

Changed on-line database reference 

to the USGS point count database

Updated website and mailing 

addresses

1.03 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial changes.

1.04 December 

2009

Brian Mitchell Added rationale for not matching 

USFWS and GLKN distance bands

2.00 February 2010 Adam Kozlowski 

and Brian 

Mitchell

Updated survey procedures and 

added mammal data coding sheet. 

In particular, streamlined the data 

forms to remove extraneous codes 

and ensure that the correct data is 

collected at each point count. 

Observation codes are now just C 

(calling/singing), I (individual seen), 

or FL (flock seen or heard).

Observers no longer need to record 

distance or time of detection for 

flyovers; these observations violate 

distance and removal model 

assumptions.

Added wind direction codes.

Updated sky codes so that they 

match the point count database.

New data forms ask observers to 

certify data with signatures.

Modify field 

procedures and forms 

to reduce data errors

2.01 March 2010 Steve Faccio Minor editorial changes

2.02 December 

2012

Brian Mitchell Volunteers can use a phone with a 

timer function.

Less equipment to 

track in field.
SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Point Counts

112

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

Volunteers should note and report 

any missing trail markers.

Facilitate study site 

route maintenance.

2.03 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Data sheets should be mailed to 

project manager within a month, 

regardless of whether online data 

entry is complete.

Removed reference to project 

materials on VCE website (materials 

are available through NETN).

Removed references to USGS 

database, replaced with AKN 

database and web site.

Mammal data sheets no longer 

needed; mammal sightings are 

entered with the bird data

Number of individuals should be 

recorded for any group of birds, not 

just flocks.

Update Yellow Warbler and Eastern 

Gray Squirrel codes in Appendix

“State” and “Coordinates” removed 

as variables

Replaced figures of field map and 

coding sheet; removed mammal 

coding sheet

Clarify procedures for recording 

flocks and other groups

Speed up data entry.

Make SOP more 

general for future use.

Change in database 

manager

New database allows 

mammal entry

Clarification

New database has 

different codes

Not collected in the 

field

Revised to 

accommodate new 

database and codes

Address data 

inconsistency

2.04 January 2015 Brian Mitchell Canada Goose (CANG) added to 

appendix of bird codes

Wind direction removed from field 

card and list of weather data to be 

collected

Missing code for a 

species with a nonstandard code.

No plans to use wind 

direction data.
113

SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 1.01

Overview of SOP

Ideally, observer quality would be assessed in the field with periodic side-by-side point counts with 

the Project Manager. Difficulties with coordinating schedules have made this goal impossible to 

achieve in practice, so this SOP documents an alternative: using a digital audio recorder in the field 

to record point counts, which are reviewed by the Project Manager. This SOP explains the procedure 

for setting up a Tascam DR-05 recorder for field use, conducting quality control recordings, and 

reviewing the recordings for assessing volunteer observer quality.

Setting up the Tascam DR-05

Refer to the Tascam DR-05 User Manual for detailed instructions on the use of the recorder. The 

procedures here document settings used for conducting QC recordings in the field. Figure S6.1 is an 

image of the front of the recorder, containing button numbers referred to in these instructions.

Figure S6.1. Diagram of Tascam DR-05 front panel, with features and buttons numbered.

Return to Factory Defaults

The setting changes described below assume that the recorder is starting from factory defaults. To 

return to factory defaults:

1. Press the Menu button (6), and scroll to the “Others” item by pressing the – button (9).
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

114

2. Press the Play button (14) to enter the “Others” tab, and press the – button (9) until “System” 

is highlighted. Press the Play button (14).

3. Press the – button (9) until “Initialize” is highlighted, and then press the Play button (14) to 

highlight “Exec”. Press the Play button (14) again.

4. Press the Play button (14) to restore the factory defaults, or the Stop button (4) to cancel.

Set Date and Time

1. Press the Menu button (6), and scroll to the “Others” item by pressing the – button (9).

2. Press the Play button (14) to enter the “Others” tab, and press the – button (9) until 

“Date/Time” is highlighted. Press the Play button (14).
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

115

3. Press the Fast Forward or Rewind buttons (7 or 13) to move between highlighted fields, and 

use the + or – buttons (5 or 9) to change field values. When finished, press the Play button 

(14) to confirm the changes.

Low Cut Filter

The low cut filter is off by default, but this filter is helpful to reduce wind noise and other low 

frequency sounds on the recordings. Set the filter to 120 Hz as follows:

1. Press the Menu button (6). Press the + or – buttons (5 or 9) to highlight “Rec Setting”, and 

then press the Play button (14).

2. Scroll down with the – button (9) until “Low Cut” is highlighted, and press the Play button 

(14).

3. Press the + button (5) until “120Hz” is highlighted, and press the Home button (4).

Maximize Recording Level

The recording default has the recording input level (gain) minimized. For recording bird point counts 

it is much more likely that the maximum input level will be used. Maximize the recording level by 

pressing the Record button (11).

Press the Fast Forward button (13) until the recording level reads “90”. 
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

116

Press the Home button (4) to cancel the recording standby mode.

Turn Speaker On

Enabling the speaker will allow observers to check recordings even if they don’t have headphones. 

The speaker will not play during recording or if a headphone is plugged in. Press the Menu button 

(6), scroll down to “Speaker” with the – button (9), and press the Play button (14).

Use the + Button (5) to highlight “ON”. 

Press the Home button (4) to return to the main screen.

Erase Existing Audio Files

Files may have been accidentally left on the recorder from a previous field season. Delete any files 

on the recorder before sending to a volunteer for field use (but ensure that all data files have been 

downloaded prior to deleting them). To delete files:

1. Press the Menu button (6). Press the + or – buttons (5 or 9) to highlight “Browse”, and then 

press the Play button (14).

2. If no .wav files appear in the list then there are no files to delete. If there are .wav files, use 

the + or – buttons (5 or 9) to select a file to delete. 
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

117

3. Press the Quick button (12), and then use the + or – buttons (5 or 9) to scroll to “Delete”. 

Press the Play button (14).

4. A confirmation message will appear. Press Play (14) to confirm delete, or Stop (4) to cancel.

5. Repeat the process for any additional files that need to be deleted.

Setting the File Name Prefix

To assist with data management, the file name prefix is set to reflect the year and park of data 

collection. A six-character prefix is used – the four letter park code followed by the two digit year 

(e.g., MABI14 for Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP in 2014). Set the prefix as follows:

1. Press the Menu button (6), and scroll to the “Others” item by pressing the – button (9).

2. Press the Play button (14) to enter the “Others” tab, and press the + or – buttons (5 or 9) until 

“File Name” is highlighted. Press the Play button (14).

3. Press the – button (9) to highlight “WORD”, then the Play button (14) to move to the first 

letter.

4. Use the + and – buttons (5 and 9) to select a character, and the Fast Forward and Rewind 

buttons (7 and 13) to move between letters. Press the Home key (4) when finished.
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Basic Operation of the Tascam DR-05 Recorder

Turn the recorder on or off by pressing and holding the Power/Home button (4; Figure S6.1).

Put the recorder in Standby mode by pressing the Record button (11). The Record Indicator (10) will 

flash. When an appropriate recording level is set and you are standing quietly, the black bars next to 

“L” and “R” should be between the two ovals in Figure S6.2, and the Peak Indicator (2) does not 

light. If necessary, press the Fast Forward and Rewind buttons (13 and 7) to adjust the recording 

level; typically you will want the recording level to be maximized (set to 90). 

Figure S6.2. Recording standby screen showing the target background noise level (between the ovals) 

for audio recording.

Pressing the Record button (11) from Standby mode will begin a recording; Standby can be canceled 

by pressing the Stop button (4). Once a recording has started, it can be stopped by pressing the Stop 

button (4).

To play back a recently completed recording, press the Play button (14). If the recorder has been 

powered off, you may need to scroll through available recordings using the Fast Forward or Rewind 

buttons (7 and 13). Volume of playback is controlled using the + and – buttons (5 and 9) during 

playback. Headphones are plugged into the side of the recorder (labeled “Line Out”). If you don’t 

have headphones, you can listen via the built-in speaker. 

Field Procedures

The project manager will mail recorders to three observers each year prior to the start of the 

monitoring season. Recorders are currently mailed using the NETN FedEx account, with pre-filled 

labels for returning the recorders after use. 

The recorder is not weather resistant; do not attempt to make recordings if conditions are foggy, 

drizzling, or raining. Wind may hamper recording quality, but recordings can be attempted at any 

wind level suitable for bird point counts.

Prior to field work, verify that the recorder has suitable battery charge; when you turn on the recorder 

the battery status displays in the top-right of the display, and it should have three bars. If there are 

fewer bars, install fresh batteries.
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119

When you arrive at each point count location, locate a nearby tree branch at approximately headheight. Slide the locking tab on the strap to the center of the strap, loop the strap through the recorder 

and slide the tab down tight to the top of the recorder (see Figure S6.3). Then, use the strap to loop 

the recorder around the branch. The recorder will hang with the stereo microphones facing up. 

Ideally the recorder will hang a few feet from you and the tree trunk or any other obstructions, and be 

about 5 feet above the ground (hanging it on a small tree or sapling works well). Try to avoid placing 

the recorder directly on the ground.

Figure S6.3. Method for hanging recorder with microphones facing up.

Power the recorder on and press the “Record” button (red circle). The “REC” light will be flashing. 

Check the recording level and adjust if needed, and then press the “Record” button again. The “REC” 

light will illuminate and be steady. 

Begin your point count. When you start your count and timer, clearly and audibly state “Start”. At 

the end of the count, clearly and audibly state “End”. Then annotate the recording by saying your 

name, the park and route, the point number, the date and the time, as well as any observations about 

the recording (e.g., recorder next to a large tree, or on the ground because there was no suitable 

location to hang it from). 

Once you’ve annotated your recording, press the “HOME”/Stop button (white square). The “REC” 

light will turn off. Power off the recorder and pack it for use at the next point count station.
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

120

Please return the recorder to the Project Manager within a month of your field visit, along with your 

completed data forms.

File Management 

The Tascam DR-05 has a USB port that can usually be used to connect to a computer, but testing the 

connection occasionally resulted in problems. Attempt to connect to a computer first using a USB 

cable between the recorder and computer. If this works, the microSD card in the recorder will be 

available as a drive on the computer. If the USB cable does not work, the microSD card will need to 

be removed from the recorder and placed into a USB adapter and plugged into the computer directly.

Once the card is recognized as a drive, move the files from the microSD card to a data folder named 

with the current year. This folder should be stored within another folder titled “QC Recordings”. 

Rename the files to reflect the site and point count station number. For example, a recording from 

point number 5 on the SARA Northwest route (route 38) from 2014 might originally be named 

“SARA14_0006.wav” and would be renamed “SARA14_3805.wav”. When renaming files, it may 

help to refer to the data sheets to match the date and time of the audio file with specific point count 

times; don’t forget that the time listed for a recording at a specific point will be about 10 minutes 

later than the start time of the point count. If there is a problem with the recording date and time, 

listen to the verbal annotation at the end of the audio file to determine the correct route and point to 

use in the file name.

Once files have been renamed, make a .zip archive of the folder and transfer a copy to the NETN 

data manager (contact NETN staff for possible avenues for transferring large files). The data 

manager will store the folder on the network’s server at: 

Z:\PROJECTS\MONITORING\Landbird_Monitoring\5_Data\Data_Files\QC Recordings.

Make sure that the audio files are erased from the microSD card, and replace the card in the audio 

recorder if it has been removed.

Quality Control Review of Audio Recordings

The project manager will review all audio recordings, with the goal of identifying species on the 

recordings, the first time each species is heard, and the loudness (approximate distance) of the first 

detection of each species.

Data can be recorded on a “Bird Coding Data Sheet” with “QC” written after the Site Name. Use the 

date of the audio recordings, not the date the recordings are reviewed. All data fields on the coding 

sheet will be used, except “Flyovers”. Valid observation codes are C (Calling), S (Singing), and D 

(Drumming). Use the “0-10 m” column for close/loud calls, the “11-25 m” column for intermediate 

calls, and the “26-50 m” column for distant/soft calls. 

Use headphones or a decent set of multimedia speakers to review each recording. Find the point on 

the recording where the observer states “Start”, and start a countdown timer at the same time. Listen 

to the recording in real time, writing down the first detection of each species and the time period, and 

place the observation code in the correct distance column. Do not pause or rewind the recording.
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121

If the observer forgot to say “Start”, you may be able to determine the start time on the recording by 

noting the recording time when the observer says “Stop” or when their countdown timer alarm 

sounds. Rewind exactly ten minutes from that point, and use that location on the audio file as the 

start.

If the project manager is unfamiliar with the birds in an area or habitat where recordings were made, 

he or she should either recruit someone familiar with the area and habitat to review the recordings, or 

identify the known species and clip out vocalizations of unknown species for review by someone 

familiar with the area and habitat. See “Clipping Segments from Audio Recordings” below for details 

on clipping audio files. When listening to audio files, make sure to make note of the approximate 

times within the recording where you hear unknown species. This should be the time from the start of 

the recording itself, not the start of the point count.

Compare the data provided by the observer with the quality control data. Any species that the 

observer marked as being close (distance bands 1 and 2) should be audible on the recording, 

assuming they were detected by ear. More distant species may not be audible. Compare species 

detected to determine whether the observer may have confused similar-sounding species, or failed to 

detect uncommon or high-pitched species. These problems could indicate an observer with limited 

experience or hearing loss. Also compare the time periods and distance bands between the original 

and the quality control data. Observers who report markedly different time periods or who tend to 

lump their data into near or far distance bands may need some additional training, although this 

problem should normally be detected with a visual review of the field mapping cards. Remember that 

species detected by the observer but not audible on the recording cannot be quality-checked; the bird 

may have been visually detected or too far away to be audible on the recording.

A summary of the quality control findings should be provided to the NETN program manager, and 

the results should be discussed with the volunteer(s) who provided the quality control data.

Significant problems (species missed or confused) may be cause for not using the data collected by 

the observer (i.e., keeping it in “RESTRICTED” status), directing the observer to additional training, 

pairing the observer with a more experienced observer in the future, and/or removing the observer 

from the project. The determination of whether errors rise to the level of “significant” is ultimately a 

judgment call on the part of the project manager. All observers miss occasional calls, especially if 

there are many birds singing at the same time. If a birder frequently (twice or more per count) misses 

songs that are clear and close, during times when there are few other vocalizations audible on the 

tape, that might indicate a significant problem. 

Clipping Segments from Audio Recordings

These instructions use the freeware audio editor Audacity, available at 

http://audacity.sourceforge.net/. Any audio editor can be used for clipping files, but the details may 

differ if another editor is used.

1. Open Audacity and load the recording (File... Open). Click OK to the warning message.
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122

2. The main program window opens, and the recording is represented by two blue lines (one for 

the left microphone, and one for the right). There are a number of ways to navigate to a 

particular section of the recording. If you know where the sound is, the fastest approach 

would be to enter a start and end time that brackets the sound by a second or two. Just enter 

the start time in the Selection Start box (1), click the Length button (2) and provide the 

duration of the segment you are interested in in the box below (3).

3. Pressing play (1) will play the selected portion of the sound file. If you did not quite capture 

the sound of interest, it may help to zoom in on the selection with the “Fit Selection” tool (2) 

and then zoom out a bit (3), and then manually select a new region by clicking and dragging 

across the area where you think the sound is (click and drag anywhere near the blue lines 

representing the recordings). This will only work if the selection tool (4) is activated (it 

should be by default). Then press play again, and when you hear the sound you want re-select 

the proper portion of the recording by clicking and dragging over the region of interest.
SOP 6 - Field Quality Control Recordings

123

4. Once you are happy with the selection, choose File... Export Selected Audio and provide a 

file name. Files should be named with park, route number, point number, date, and segment 

number, for example: MIMA_13_08_20140614_Segment1.wav.

5. You will be prompted to provide metadata, and it is a good idea to fill in some information to 

help document the file (but not required). Use the observer for “Artist Name”, the point 

number for “Track Title”, the site name or number for the “Album Title”, the year in “Year” 

and any info about the habitat or unknown bird in “Comments”. When done with the 

metadata, click “OK”. 

6. To view the metadata and/or edit it, open the file in Audacity and choose File... Edit 

Metadata. The dialog from the previous step will appear. The person identifying unknown 

vocalizations can put the species ID in the comment field, or provide the ID’s separately (in a 

spreadsheet or text document).
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124

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 April 2014 Brian Mitchell

and Steve Faccio

SOP used beginning with the 2014 

field season.

New approach to QC 

needed due to difficulty 

of double-observer 

logistics.

1.01 February 2015 Brian Mitchell Added instructions for clipping sound 

segments containing unknown bird 

vocalizations 

Clarified some QC procedures

Allow for quick review 

of unknowns by 

individuals more 

familiar with the 

region/habitat.

Clarify methods.
125

SOP 7 - Data Management

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 4.05

Overview of SOP

Careful, accurate collection of data as directed in these SOP’s is critical to the success of Vital Signs 

monitoring. This SOP explains the procedure for proper transcription, verification and stewardship of 

breeding landbird monitoring data once they have been collected. Data management responsibilities 

are divided between volunteer observers, the project manager (PM), and the network data manager 

(DM). The roles and responsibilities detailed here are also presented in graphical form in Figures 

S7.1 through S7.3. 

Data Collection

Breeding landbird point count data will be collected on Field Mapping Cards. The Field Mapping 

Cards will clearly identify all required information, using examples where needed to ensure that 

proper data are recorded. Observers should record both their breeding landbird and mammal 

observations in a clear and firm handwriting using the standardized symbols defined on the Field 

Mapping Cards. Before leaving the point, observers will check over the Field Mapping Card 

thoroughly to make sure it is complete and legible, taking the time to clarify anything illegible or out 

of the ordinary. Observers will initial the Field Mapping Card in the space allotted to signify that the 

data is complete and legible to the best of their ability.

Data Transcription and Verification

As soon as possible after leaving the field (preferably within 24 hours), observers will verify that 

they used the correct breeding landbird codes on their field mapping cards. Incorrect codes will be 

crossed out with a single line, corrected by the observer, and initialed. Observers will sign the field 

mapping card cover page to signify that they have checked their bird codes (valid codes can be found 

in SOP 5 - Conducting Variable Circular Plot Counts, Appendix S5.A). Next, observers will 

transcribe their point count data from the Field Mapping Cards to Data Coding Sheets. Breeding 

landbird and mammal data are each copied to the same Data Coding Sheets. Mapped data are 

transcribed to the Data Coding Sheets to reorganize it into a tabular format that can be easily and 

accurately transcribed into the project’s database. To minimize the possibility of carrying errors 

forward, the observer is required to conduct a 100% check of the original Field Mapping Card data 

against completed Data Coding Sheet(s). Any errors discovered during this data verification step 

should be corrected immediately by crossing out the error with a single line, entering the correct 

value next to the error, and initialing and dating the correction. The observer will sign the Data 

Coding Sheet in the place provided, signifying that the data verification process has been completed. 
SOP 7 - Data Management

126

Conduct 

Point 

Counts

Field Mapping

Cards

Complete in the Field

One per point

Data Coding Sheet

Complete in the Office

One per site

AKN Online

Database

Verify codes, transcribe 

and conduct 100% check 

(Bird and Mammal data)

Enter and conduct 

100% check (Site and 

Point Data)

Enter and conduct 

100% check 

(Bird and Mammal data)

Send completed and proofed Coding 

Sheets and Field Mapping Cards to 

PM and inform him/her that you 

have finished entering and proofing 

your data

FINISHED

FIELD

OFFICE/HOME

Abbreviations

DM = Data Manager

IBI = Index of Biological Integrity

NETN = Northeast Temperate 

Network

PM = Project Manager

AKN = Avian Knowledge Network

KEY

Required Action

Form

Database

Figure S7.1. Flow diagram for breeding landbird monitoring protocol data management responsibilities: 

Volunteer Observers.
SOP 7 - Data Management

127

Data

Coding Sheet

From Volunteers

AKN Online

Database

Verify data (100% check of 

Bird and Mammal Data)

Send hard copies of all forms and the 

NETN database to the NETN Data Manager

FINISHED

Field Mapping Cards

From Volunteers

Verify data 

(10% check)

Verify data (100% check 

of Site and Point Data)

Depending on results of 

verification, PM will work with 

volunteers to correct data 

errors and increase accuracy of 

VERIFICATION data collection. 

POST_PROCESSING

Download bird and mammal data 

from AKN and refresh links to 

NETN database

NETN IBI 

Database

Abbreviations

DM = Data Manager

IBI = Index of Biological Integrity

NETN = Northeast Temperate 

Network

PM = Project Manager

AKN = Avian Knowledge Network

KEY

Required Action

Form

Database

Figure S7.2. Flow diagram for breeding landbird monitoring protocol data management responsibilities: 

Project Manager.
SOP 7 - Data Management

128

Data

Coding Sheet

From PM

AKN Online

Database

Verify data (10% check 

of all Data)

Send any data sheets older than 

5 years to Acadia N.P. for 

archiving.

FINISHED Abbreviations

AKN = Avian Knowledge Network

DM = Data Manager

NETN = Northeast Temperate Network

PM = Project Manager

KEY

Required Action

Form

Database

Field Mapping Cards

From PM

Verify data 

(10% check)

Verify data (10% check 

of Weather Data)

Depending on results of 

verification, DM will work with PM 

to correct data errors and increase 

accuracy of data collection. VERIFICATION

ARCHIVING

File hard copies and final 

NETN Landbird Database

NETN 

Landbird

Database

Set data status level, 

download data 

tables and import 

into NETN database

Figure S7.3. Flow diagram for breeding landbird monitoring protocol data management responsibilities: 

Network Data Manager.
SOP 7 - Data Management

129

Online Data Entry and Verification

Once the Data Coding Sheets have been verified, observers will enter the breeding landbird 

monitoring data into the Bird Point Count Database 

(http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/index.php). This web-based, publicly accessible, searchable, 

repository for point count data collected in North America is a collaborative project between the U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the NPS, the American Bird Conservancy, and Point Blue.

The goals of this point count repository are to:

• Provide easy data entry and access to everyone, while providing appropriate security 

controls.

• Accommodate count data from multiple sources, allowing for small differences in protocols, 

such as:

o Counts at different times of year: breeding, winter, or migration counts.

o Counts differing in time intervals (3 vs. 5 minutes, for example) or radii.

o Counts designed to adjust for detection probability, such as distance sampling.

• Store vegetation information associated with points.

• Enforce data quality control through validation routines and through distributed 

responsibility.

Data entry should be conducted within 24 hours of leaving the field to ensure observers’ ability to 

clearly recall events in case of a discrepancy. Data are entered into the Bird Point Count Database via 

an online data entry system that allows volunteer observers to enter data once they have created a 

user account and been added to the NETN monitoring project (SOP 7 - Data Management, Appendix 

S7.A). To help reduce data entry errors the database entry form has dropdown menus for site name, 

observer, and species and observation codes. Additionally, upon entering each row of data, observers

are asked to carefully compare the date, time, species, and observation codes recorded on the Field 

Mapping Card with those transcribed onto the Data Coding Sheet to make sure they are consistent. 

Any errors that are found should be corrected immediately. Once data entry and checking are 

complete, the observer will sign the Data Coding Sheets and mail the following items to the project 

manager so that s/he can review them:

• Completed and initialed Field Mapping Cards 

• Completed, signed as verified, entered into the database, and signed as checked Data Coding 

Sheets

The Field Mapping Card and Data Coding Sheets should be mailed to the Project Manager within 

one month of field data collection. The sheets should be mailed in at this time even if some or all of 
SOP 7 - Data Management

130

the data have not been transcribed to the coding sheets or if online data entry is incomplete. Mailing

data in within a month of collection significantly speeds up the data entry and QC process.

Post-acquisition Data Entry and Verification

After receiving the Field Mapping Cards and Data Coding Sheets from the observer, the project 

manager will initiate further verification of the data. Evaluating post-acquisition data is a difficult but 

necessary task that requires close communication with the observers to resolve discrepancies. The 

project manager will make copies of all the original data sheets on acid-free paper and conduct: a 

10% check of data transcription from Field Mapping Cards to Data Coding Sheets, and a 100% check 

of Data Coding Sheets against the records in the online database. 

A 10% check is conducted by reviewing data corresponding to one randomly selected point count per 

study site (including the site-level data – park, site, date, and observer – and point-level data –

weather and start time), so that some data is reviewed from each observer. If an error is discovered at 

any point during the 10% check, an additional point count from the same observer and site will be 

randomly selected and reviewed. If an additional error is detected, a 100% check of all the observer’s 

data will be required. For all errors found during the 10% check or 100% check, the PM will work 

with the observer to resolve any data conflicts identified and provide additional guidance to prevent 

those errors from occurring in future surveys. Changes made to the data will only be made on the 

copies. Changes will be initialed clearly to signify who, why, and when the change was made. Errors 

repeated across many observers may signify a problem with the protocol or datasheet and should be 

addressed as soon as possible in consultation with the NETN data manager.

Once the 10% check of the Data Coding Sheets is completed the PM will conduct a 100% check of 

all the breeding landbird data entered into the online database. Data are coded as “RAW” in the 

database upon initial entry, “CLEAN” after observer review of the data, and “RESTRICTED” after 

the 100% check. The data will not show in the public search at any of these status levels. The 100% 

check is conducted by checking every database record against its Data Coding Sheet record. Only the 

PM and DM have the ability to edit data once they have been entered. Data verification is necessary 

to ensure that values recorded on the field form and keyed into the database are correctly entered 

(i.e., the entered value is the “correct” value). The PM will note any changes made to the database on 

copies of the Data Coding Sheets (date, reason, initials) and if necessary provide guidance to 

observers who need extra help. Once the PM is satisfied that the data is clean s/he will mark them in 

the database as “RESTRICTED”. 

Following completion of his/her data management responsibilities each year, the PM will mail all 

copies of the completed and verified Field Mapping Cards, Data Coding Sheets, and the latest 

version of the NETN Landbirds database to the NETN office. 

As data are received the Network data manager will conduct an additional 10% check of the data 

transcription from Field Mapping Cards to Data Coding Sheets (using the procedures outlined 

above), and a 10% check of the Data Coding Sheets against the records in the online database. A 

greater than 2% error rate in any of the 10% checks will require that the data be returned to the PM 

so that a 100% check can be conducted. The DM will document and make corrections when the error 
SOP 7 - Data Management

131

rate does not exceed 2% or in the case of all discrepancies found in the mammal data. Once the data 

review is completed, the DM or PM will change the status of each site visit to “AVAILABLE Level 

5” (full public availability). If there is an unresolvable problem with the data and it is not suitable for 

use, the survey should be left at the “RESTRICTED” level. This may occur, for example, when an 

observer is clearly inexperienced.

Note that the online database does not enforce the preference of one species synonym over another 

(e.g., YRWA and MYWA are both acceptable codes). Rather than correcting the online database for 

synonyms, NETN uses a query in its NETN Landbirds database to convert data to preferred 

synonyms; use of synonyms should not be considered a data error. See SOP 7 - Data Management, 

Appendix S7.B for details.

Data Archiving

Original data forms will be sent annually to the NETN office. The NETN will maintain at least 5

years of data in the network office; older data sheets will be periodically archived at Acadia NP. The 

manager of the online database (Point Blue) is responsible for performing periodic backups of all 

data residing in the central database. Each year, after all breeding landbird and mammal data for the 

survey year has been entered and verified, the PM will download all NETN data residing in the 

master database and store as an archived copy. A duplicate copy will be sent to the NETN office.

Data Requests

Requests for NETN breeding landbird monitoring data should be directed to either the Project 

Manager (sfaccio@vtecostudies.org) or the NETN data manager (Adam_Kozlowski@nps.gov). Each 

request will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and any data on sensitive species (as defined by 

each park’s Resource Manager) will be removed before data are provided.
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Appendix S7.A. Online database instructions

The recommended internet browser for working with the online database is Chrome. Firefox and 

Safari also work, but Internet Explorer is not recommended. 

Accessing the Online Database

Logging in

1. The database is available at http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists.

2. Enter your e-mail address when prompted.

3. Enter your password and click “Login”. 

Lost Password

1. The database is available at http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists.

2. Enter your e-mail address when prompted.

3. If you don’t know your password or want to change it, click “Forgot your password?”. 
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4. An e-mail will be sent to you with a link to reset your password. The link will take you to a 

“New Password” page where you need to enter a new password twice and then click “Save”. 

Once you save your new password you should follow the steps above for “Logging In”.

New Account

1. The database is available at http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists.

2. Enter your e-mail address when prompted.

3. If no account was found, click on the link to register for an account.
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1. You’ll be taken to a registration form with 7 parts. Steps 1 and 2 should be self-explanatory. 

For Step 3, you can enter “Northeast Temperate Network” for the Organization, with the 

following address: 54 Elm Street, Woodstock, VT, 05091. The phone number is 802-457-

3368.

2. For Step 4, select “US National Park Service” from the options. For Step 5, type “NETN”. 

Step 6 can remain blank, unless you are also an observer for VCE’s Forest Bird Monitoring 

Program. In that case, type “Also an observer for project VTFBMP”. For Step 7, type the 

numbers in the top of the “ReCaptcha” box into the text box. If you cannot read the numbers 

clearly, click the “Get a new challenge” button, which is the red button with two arrows in a 

circle. Once the form is completed, click “register”. 
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3. You will receive an e-mail with a link. Clicking on the link in the e-mail will bring up a 

registration confirmation screen. The project leader will receive an e-mail asking him or her 

to approve your request for joining the project. 

4. You will not be able to log in to enter data until the approval process is completed.

Entering Observation Data

IMPORTANT: Plan to enter all of your data in one sitting. Data are cached to your internet browser 

during data entry, and not saved to the database until all data for a survey are entered and pass basic 

quality control checks. If you do have to take a break, your data will likely be saved on your 

computer and you should be able to start where you left off, but this is not guaranteed (it will depend 

on your local computer settings). If you need to resume data entry after an interruption, restart your 

process at Step 1, using the same internet browser (e.g., Chrome). When you get to Step 4 you should 

see your previously entered data.

1. After logging in, you will see a “Welcome” screen with projects you have access to as well as 

actions you can take. Make sure the project is highlighted (“NETN – NPS Northeast 

Temperate Network Landbird Monitoring Program”) and click on “Point Count Surveys”.
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2. Choose your site from the list of landbird routes. The list is alphabetized by park name, then 

route number within each park. Note that the figure below only shows the top of the list of 

routes.

3. The next screen allows you to create a new visit (enter data) or review previous visits to the 

route. To get to the data entry screen, first verify the location at the top of the screen, then 

click “Start”. The observation protocol (“0_to_9m10_25_50M+Fly”) and site condition 

protocol (“None”) should be set by default; do not change this (site conditions will be entered 

later). Note: if you got interrupted during data entry and need to resume where you left off, or 

are interested in scanning old data for the route (including viewing a list of species detected 

during a given survey), click on the date of the survey in the “Review/edit an existing visit” 

section.
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4. You will be taken to a “New Visit” screen. Fill out the “General” section at the top with the 

date of the survey and visit number, and verify that the correct observer name is selected (the 

database will default to the person entering the data). The date can be entered in a variety of 

formats and will convert to the standardized format used by the database. The visit number 

should be “1” for the first visit of the year, and then increment for any additional visits. If two 

people collect data concurrently (double-observer point counts), the lead observer (official 

volunteer for the route) uses visit “1” and the other observer uses visit “2”.

5. The next section is “Points Surveyed”. For each point that was surveyed, place a check in the 

box to the left of the point name. Then provide the starting time for each count. If any of the 

point counts had NO birds detected, click in the circle next to “no” in the “Detections?” 

column. Finally, add any notes about the point count (e.g., comments about noise, or other 

unusual events). The image below shows the “Points Surveyed” section filled out for a partial 

survey of the first four points on a route, where the fourth point had no bird detections.
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6. Before entering observations, verify any species codes on your coding sheet that you are 

unsure about; the database will not check your species codes for errors until you complete 

data entry, and data entry errors that accidentally produce a valid code (for an unintended 

species) will not be detected by the database. For example, the correct Yellow Warbler code 

is YEWA, not YWAR, and gray squirrel is EGSQ. To verify species codes, click on “Search 

the species database” in the “Observations” section of the data entry screen. 

7. A new tab should open in your browser; begin typing a code, common name, or scientific 

name in the “Search for:” box to check your codes.
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8. Once you are confident that your species codes are correct, enter data in the “Observations” 

section. The columns on the online form will match your data coding sheet, except that the 

online form has columns for “Breeding” (not used by this project, but available to document 

signs of breeding) and “Notes”. Clicking “i” next to a column heading will provide a list of 

valid codes, and the “Quick Tips” link at the top of the Observations section has useful 

information about data entry. The data entry form will automatically convert entries to all 

caps, and you can use “Enter” to go to a new line, the up or down arrows to move vertically, 

and Tab and Shift-Tab to move forward and back. Note: If you did not record the time of 

detection of a species (e.g., for flyovers), select “NR” for the Time Bin. 
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9. You will need to click on “+20 rows” at the bottom-left of the data entry screen for each 

additional batch of 20 rows. Once all data rows are entered, review the data for errors and 

correct any mistakes you see. Pay particular attention to the species codes. The database will 

allow ANY 4-letter combination during data entry, and it will not catch mistakes that produce 

a 4-letter code for a different species than the one observed. 

10. Once you are comfortable with the data accuracy, click “Save to database”. The database will 

perform a number of data checks.

11. If an error message appears on the screen, review the data and correct the error. The most 

common errors are invalid species codes and invalid detection cues. Note that you can sort by 

species code by clicking the “Species” label, to facilitate locating problem codes. All other 

fields can also be sorted. Don’t forget to correct your coding sheet as well if you used an 

incorrect species code.

12. If the data save successfully, you will see a message after clicking “Save to database”. You 

can close the message by clicking the “X” to the far right of the message.

13. You will be taken to the “Review or Edit Visit” screen for proofing your data. This might be 

a good time to take a break if you need one!
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Entering Site Conditions

Important: make sure that the same researcher is used for site conditions and bird observations for a 

given survey. If an assistant records the site conditions, use the name of the bird observer when 

entering site data.

1. Log in to the database. If you are continuing from the previous session, click on “Project” at 

the top-left of the screen.

2. Click on “Site Conditions” under “Project Observation Types”.

3. On the next screen, you will see a list of parks. Click on the “+” next to your park.
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4. Click on the “+” next to your site to display the list of points.

5. Click on the first point you sampled. A list of existing dates with site observations will 

appear, as well as an option to “add new observations”. Click on “add new observations”.
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6. Enter the date (the database uses YYYY-MM-DD, but will attempt to convert other formats) 

and time of your observations. The researcher can be changed if the person entering data is 

different from the person collecting the data, but normally can be left at “My own 

observations”. Click “next”.

7. Enter the temperature, sky code, and wind speed code. Click Save after entering your 

condition codes.
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8. You will be returned to the screen from Step 5, and your newly entered site conditions will be 

reflected on the table of existing site conditions. Repeat Steps 5 – 7 for each additional point 

that was sampled.

9. Once you have completed data entry of site conditions, log out of the database or close your 

browser. The site conditions are entered on an older application that does not connect back to 

the main application used for entering and reviewing observation data.
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Proofing Observation and Site Data

1. After logging back in (http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists; you may be logged in 

automatically) you will see the “Welcome” screen again. Make sure the project is highlighted 

(“NETN – NPS Northeast Temperate Network Landbird Monitoring Program”) and click on 

“Point Count Surveys”.

2. Choose your site from the list of landbird routes. The list is alphabetized by park name, then 

route number within each park. Note that the figure below only shows the top of the list of 

routes.
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3. The next screen allows you to create a new visit (enter data) or review previous visits to the 

route. You want to “Review/edit an existing visit” rather than start a new visit, so click on the 

visit.

4. The next screen is long, and contains the data you entered as well as a species list. Clicking a 

link in the “Sections” portion will jump to a portion of the “Review or Edit Visit” screen. 

You will see a box that says “Proofing Completed”. DO NOT click this box until the data 

have been reviewed according to the procedures below.
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5. Begin by clicking the “Overview” link or scrolling to the Overview section. Verify the site 

(“Transect” in the database), Date, and Visit. These data cannot be changed; if there is an 

error contact the Project Manager for assistance.

6. Continue to the “Points Surveyed” section, either by scrolling down or using the link at the 

top of the page. Verify that all your points are listed, and that the Start Time for each point 

and any notes related to each point count are correct. If you need to edit a Start Time or Note, 

just double-click in the field and make your change. Unlike when entering observations, each 

change you make on this screen is saved to the database immediately after you leave the data 

field (by pressing enter or clicking outside of the field). This section also displays the number 

of species detected at each point (“Total Count at Point”).
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7. Continue to the “Site Conditions” section, either by scrolling down or using the link at the 

top of the page. Each point count station will be listed separately, and the stations might not 

be listed in order. For each station, verify the time, observer, temperature, and wind speed 

(listed as “Wind”). 

8. IMPORTANT: If you discover an error in the site conditions, the errors cannot currently be 

fixed from this screen. Making changes generates an error message and the data are not 

actually corrected even though the data on the screen are altered. Review all the site 

condition data and create a list of the corrections needed, then click the “Add more” button 

below the site conditions for the first point needing correction.
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9. Verify the point count station on the next screen, and click the pencil icon for the date that 

you need to edit.

10. On the next screen, correct the data and click “save”.

11. If other points need correction, click the label for the next point on the left, and follow Steps 

7b and 7c for each point.

12. Once you have completed correcting the site condition data, log out of the database or close 

your browser. The site conditions are entered on an older application that does not connect 

back to the main application used for entering and reviewing observation data.
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13. Follow Steps 1-3 at the start of this section to get back to the data proofing screen for the 

correct visit.

14. Continue to the “Species List” section, either by scrolling down or using the link at the top of 

the page. This section will be below the “Observations” section. This section allows you to 

compare the species code used with the common name of the species. Please review the list 

carefully to ensure that you did not inadvertently use an incorrect species code. The 

Occurrence field is currently empty, but it will eventually provide information from eBird to 

indicate if the species is common, uncommon, rare, or never seen near the point count station 

and at the same time of year.

15. Once you are confident that your species codes are correct, scroll up to the “Observations” 

section. Review your data line by line, to ensure that the time, distance category, and 

detection type are correctly entered. Point and Time cannot be changed, and the “Singing?” 

column should be ignored. All other data can be corrected by double-clicking in the 

appropriate field. Each change you make on this screen is saved to the database immediately 

after you leave the data field (by pressing enter or clicking outside of the field). 

16. NOTE: If your data coding sheet has multiple individuals of the same species detected at the 

same time, the database will consolidate the data into one row. For example, REVI seen in 

distance band 2 and heard in band 3 will have “1I” in the 11-25 column and “1C” in the 26-

50 column on a single row. If they were both in distance band 2, “1C1I” will be in the 11-25 

column, and if they were both heard in distance band 2 then “2C” will be in the 11-25 

column.
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17. If you discover that one or more rows of data were not entered, click on “Add more” at the 

bottom of the Observations section. 

18. You will be taken to a “New Visit” data entry screen, with a list of points surveyed and a data 

entry section for new Observations. Enter the missing data on this screen, and note that the 

Time (start time) will not be filled in automatically. 
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19. Click “Save to database” when done entering new data. You will be returned to the proofing 

screen.

20. If you need to delete a row of data (e.g., you accidentally entered the same observation 

twice), click on the red “X” by the observation you want to delete. Say “OK” to the warning 

message to delete the data row.
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21. When you have completed reviewing all of your data, return to the top of the “Review or Edit 

Visit” screen and click on “Proofing completed”.
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23. You will be returned to the “Visits” screen, and the Status of your data will now be 

“CLEAN” instead of “RAW”.

24. Congratulations! You’ve finished data entry. Please mail your field map and data coding 

sheets to the Project Manager.

Project Manager Tasks

User Management

The project manager can add observers to the project, set observer status as “Active” or “Inactive”, 

and set observers up as a project leader and determine which project leaders receive e-mails from 

new users requesting access to the project.

Project participants can be assigned to the project as “Biologists/Researchers,” who can enter and 

edit data, or “Project Leaders,” who can publish, download, and analyze data as well as enter and edit 

data, and who can assign user roles. Point Blue recognizes other user categories (Observer, Citizen 

Scientist, and Analyst), but these categories do not appear to be under the control of the project 

manager, nor do they appear in the “Project Leader” tools for managing users.

To add a user who has registered in the system:

1. Log in to the system (http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/), make sure the correct project is 

highlighted (if you have access to more than one), and click on “Assign Researchers to 

Project”.
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2. On the Project Access screen, click “add one”.

3. A new screen will open. Select a researcher name from the list, assign their Status as active 

or inactive, and check whether they are a Project Leader and whether they should get 

registration requests. Click “Save” when finished. Note that in the screen shot below, 

researcher names and e-mails have been removed to protect personally identifiable 

information.

To update the status of a researcher assigned to the project:

1. Log in to the system (http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/), make sure the correct project is 

highlighted (if you have access to more than one), and click on “Assign Researchers to 

Project”.
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2. On the Project Access screen, click the pencil symbol at the far right of the row for the user.

3. On the screen that opens, you can update the status (Active or Inactive), and assign the 

Project Leader role and whether or not the Project Leader receives registration requests.

4. It is not possible for the Project Leader to remove a researcher. Use the “Give Us Your 

Feedback” link to ask for assistance if you need to permanently remove a researcher from the 

project. Researchers who have contributed data should not be removed; if there is data the 

researcher should be set to “Inactive”.
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Data Review and Certification

The data review process is identical to “Proofing Observation and Site Data”, above.

As each “CLEAN” site survey is reviewed during the 100% check, change the data status to 

“RESTRICTED”. This data status indicates that the data cannot be used without permission. To 

change the status, go to the “Overview” section, and double-click on the data status. Select the new 

status from the drop-down box that appears. 

Once all data review is completed for the year and the data are deemed clean and final, load each 

visit for the year in turn and change the status to “AVAILABLE Level 5”. This is full public 

availability, and can be used for all NETN data. If a rare, threatened, or endangered species is 

detected in the monitoring, the park natural resource manager should be contacted to verify that this 

level of availability is appropriate. Table S7.A.1 contains the current potential data statuses, for 

reference.

Table S7.A.1. Potential data statuses in the online point count database.

Status Description

RAW Raw Input − Unreviewed − do not use outside of project

CLEAN Biologist Reviewed − awaiting project leader approval − do not use outside of project

RESTRICTED Restricted access − clean and project leader verified data, but must contact Point Blue 

or contributing institution project leader or division director before using. Data is not 

distributed to other Avian Knowledge Network (AKN) partners automatically.

APPROVED Available for analysis − internal Point Blue or contributing institution use only

AVAILABLE Level 1 Same as APPROVED but also shared with AKN: Data are stored in the AKN’s primary 

data warehouse. The warehouse serves as the primary archive of all AKN data, and no 

applications connect directly to the warehouse. Instead, data from the warehouse are 

ported to separate data views created specifically to optimize the performance of an 

application that connects to it. Data owners can specify how their data can be used in 

the data views, with the option that their data are not exposed to the public at all.

AVAILABLE Level 2 Same as AVAILABLE Level 1 with the following addition: data can be used in certain 

publicly available, predefined visualizations (i.e. maps and graphs), but direct access to 

the data is restricted.

AVAILABLE Level 3 Data are used in publicly available, predefined visualizations (i.e. maps and graphs). 

Additionally, the complete BMDE data set is available upon request, subject to 

approval from the original data provider.

AVAILABLE Level 4 Data can be used in publicly available, predefined visualizations (i.e. maps and graphs) 

and also may be available upon request. Additionally, some components of the data 

are made available to existing bioinformatic efforts (GBIF and ORNIS). These 

bioinformatic efforts only provide the data "marked-up" to Darwin Core, used to 
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Status Description

describe primary occurrence (location, date and species for example).

AVAILABLE Level 5 Data are used in publicly available, predefined visualizations (i.e. maps and graphs), 

and are available to existing bioinformatic efforts. Additionally, the complete BMDE 

data set is available for download directly via download tools.

Downloading and Importing Data to the NETN Landbird Database

1. Someone with Project Leader permission (the Project Manager, NETN Data Manager, or 

NETN Program Manager) must log in to the online database 

(http://data.prbo.org/science/biologists/index.php).

2. Select the NETN project, and click “Download Observations”.

3. Click the “select all” button, then click on “CSV (Excel) file” for Point Count observations 

and Site conditions.
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4. If any of the sampling sites have changed (e.g., new point count stations added to a route, or a 

new route added to the monitoring project), you will also need to download station location 

data. To download station data:

a. Click on “Sampling Units” near the top-left of the screen, and click “Download” in 

the menu that appears.

b. Select the NETN project if multiple projects are available, and then click “enter”.

c. Click the “select all” button, then click on “CSV (Excel) file” for Sampling Units and 

center points (LatLong).

5. The data files will download to your default downloads directory. The files will be named 

“SamplingUnitProject_YYMMDDHHMMSS.csv”, where Y = Year, M = Month, D = Day, 
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H = Hour, M = Minute, and S = Seconds of the download (Pacific time zone). Rename the 

files “Point_Count_Observations.csv” and “Point_Count_Weather.csv”. If you downloaded 

station location data, name the file “Point_Count_Stations.csv”.

6. Move the downloaded files to C:\Temp.

7. Open each file in a text editor, and remove any blank rows under the header row (blank rows 

have a series of commas with no text).

8. Open the “NETN Landbirds.mdb” database. Click on “External Data” on the ribbon, then 

“Saved Imports”.

9. On the “Saved Imports” tab, make sure “Point_Count_Observations_Import” is highlighted, 

and click “Run”.

10. Click “Yes” when asked to overwrite the existing table.
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11. Then click on “Point_Count_Weather_Import” and click “Run”.

12. Click “Yes” when asked to overwrite the existing table.

13. If you downloaded station location data, click on “Point_Count_Station_Import” and click 

run, and click “Yes” when asked to overwrite the existing table.

14. Click “Close” to exit the dialog box.
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Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures

The database used for analyzing and reporting data for this protocol is an analytical database (NETN 

Landbirds.mdb) developed by NETN staff. This database contains data tables downloaded from the 

online point count database. The procedures described in this appendix cover using the NETN 

Landbirds database to generate the assessments described in SOP 9 – Data Reporting. These 

procedures are written for Microsoft Access 2010.

Using the NETN Landbirds Database

1) The database will open to the Main Switchboard. 

2) If this is your first use of the database for the reporting year, make sure to follow the procedures 

for “Annual Update to the NETN Landbirds Database”, below. In particular, new observers need 

to be added correctly for their data to be viewable, and the report forms need to be updated to 

show the current year’s data.

3) If there have been any changes to the data in the downloaded point count database, it is essential 

to click “Update Tables” from the “Updates” switchboard to ensure that the intermediate tables in 

the NETN Landbirds database are correctly populated. The update will take a few minutes and a 

progress bar will display; when the cursor changes back to a pointer instead of an hourglass, the 

update is finished. Make sure to also click the “Update Google Earth Tables” item to ensure the 

most recent information is available for Google Earth via the NETN web site.

4) There will not normally be a need to work with the queries and tables in the NETN Landbirds

database; to view the database objects, press F11.

5) Park and Site summary reports and charts (frequency of 10 most abundant species) can be viewed 

and exported using “Park and Site Summary Reports and Export”. Reports can be viewed by park 

or site and the data can be exported to Excel (spreadsheets will export to c:\temp; make sure this 

directory exists on your computer). 

a) The column in the exported spreadsheet that contains the average number of birds of each 

species per site (or park) does not always contain the correct value. If a species was not seen 

at the site or park in one or more years, the value will be overestimated. The values in the 

report are correct.

b) Charts will not export to Excel or Word; they can be printed to pdf if Adobe Acrobat is 

installed, or captured with a screen capture utility and inserted into a document as images.

c) Park and site summaries and charts are based only on the first visit to each point in each year 

to help make comparisons between years more consistent. The landbird ecological integrity

assessment reports, trend reports, and statistical modeling use all data collected, and repeat 

visits are particularly helpful for the statistical modeling.

6) Multi-year ecological integrity assessment reports (using a customizable number of years) can be 

generated using the “Landbird Assessment Reports” switchboard. These reports use all data 

collected for a given point, including repeat visits. 
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7) The other reports that are available include:

a) A list of all detections, with year, park, site, species, time, and distance. This may be useful 

for QC. The same button also opens queries listing the number of individual detections by 

site and by park for each year. These queries include all detections, including those from 

repeat visits of the same point.

b) A list of species that were detected on second and later surveys that have never been detected 

during the first survey of each study site, as well as a list of species detected in the second (or 

later) survey but not on the first survey of the study site in the most recent year.

c) Partners in Flight (PIF) Regional Concern and Continental Concern detections—numbers of 

individuals of each PIF species seen at each park. This query includes all detections, 

including those from repeat visits of the same point.

d) Sites Not Surveyed lists the sites that were not sampled each year.

e) There are also two reports listing the species in each guild.

8) There is also an option to “Export Protocol Tables”. These are two tables (Appendix A to the 

Narrative and a table from SOP 9) that need to be updated after the PIF data are updated in the 

database. Print these tables to .pdf, and then from Acrobat save them as .jpg to insert them into 

the protocol.

Annual Update to the NETN Landbirds Database

1) Follow the instructions in “Downloading and Importing Data to the NETN Landbird Database”

2) Every year, the observer tables will need to by synchronized because NETN stores some 

additional information about observers in the NETN Landbirds database that is not saved in the 

downloaded database. If all NETN observers in the NETN Landbirds database are not correctly 

matched (using first and last name) to the downloaded database, then data for observers that are 

not in the NETN database or with incorrect names will not be reported. This process is needed so 

that surveys from poor observers (skill level of 1) can be automatically excluded from reports.

a) On the main switchboard, click on “Update and Verify Observers” from the “Updates” 

switchboard. A series of dialog boxes will open with information and instructions.

b) If the top query has records, the names need to be entered into tbl_NETN_Observers along 

with the additional information requested by the table. Double-check your spelling! If the 

second query has records, verify that the individuals have not submitted data.

c) After making edits, click on “Update and Verify Observers” again and make sure the top 

query has no records and that any individuals in the second query have not submitted data.

3) From the “Updates” switchboard, select “Check for count errors” and enter the year of the data 

you want to check (you will need to enter the year twice). A query (Qry_Removal_Errors) will 
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165

open that displays information for points where there is a chance that a stopwatch was used rather 

than a countdown timer (i.e., the first minute was coded as 0 rather than 9). If only one or two 

point counts for an observer are listed in the query, the data is probably OK. But if most or all of 

the counts from a specific observer are listed, then they probably were not using a countdown 

timer. Contact the observer to verify, then correct the data accordingly and add a note to the data 

sheet(s) and database. An additional query will open with point counts where the number of 

species equals the number of observations. This may indicate an observer who is only recording 

the first detection of each species, rather than all individuals.

4) After running the “Update Tables” macro, make sure to click “Check for Problem Species 

Codes”. This opens a query with duplicated common names (two or more unique species codes 

for the same common name) and codes for unidentified birds. These codes need to either be 

excluded or converted (see step 1 under “Other Updates...”, below). If any changes are made, the 

“Update Tables” macro must be run again.

5) Update information on progress towards completing the baseline 5 years of data collection in the 

tables “Baseline_Forest_IBI” and “Baseline_Grassland_IBI”. Specifically, for each site where 

the baseline 5 years has not been collected, determine if the most recent year completes the 

baseline, and update notes about missing data years. After making any changes to this table, 

make sure to “Update Google Earth Tables” from the “Updates” switchboard.

6) If there is a new site added to the program: 

a. Adding a new site will require adding a new query: “Qry_Site_Summary_Report_2N”, where 

N is the next available letter and the new site name is used to limit the query. The new site 

will be listed in table t_PointGroups. Failure to add this query correctly will result in the top 

ten most common birds not being highlighted in the site summary report.

b. Then the macro mac_Switchboard.UpdateTables will need a new row to include the new site 

in the intermediate table tbl_Site_Summary_Report_Intermediate

c. The site must also be added to the table “Baseline_Forest_IBI” or “Baseline_Grassland_IBI” 

as appropriate, along with data on the progress towards completing a baseline 5 years of data 

collection.

6) If there is a new park added to the program:

a. Adding a new park will require adding a new query: “Qry_Park_Summary_Report_2N”, 

where N is the next available letter and the new park name is used to limit the query. Failure 

to add this query correctly will result in the top ten most common birds not being highlighted 

in the park summary report.

b. Then the union query “Qry_Park_Summary_Report_2” will need a new UNION ALL 

statement for the added query. 
SOP 7 - Data Management

Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures (continued).

166

7) If there is a new park or site added to the program, you will also need to update 

tbl_Parks_and_BCRs with the new site and/or park name, as well as the BCR number. If the new 

site is a grassland site, then tlu_Grassland_Sites and Qry_ForestDetectionsBySiteAndYear and 

Qry_ParkSummaries need to be updated with the new grassland site name (for the queries, this 

goes in the PGName column). In addition, if the new site is a grassland the site number will need 

to be added to the criteria for GuildsWithNoSpecies_Grassland_3, qry_SitesNotSampled_2, and 

qry_SitesNotSampled_3.

8) Update the query Qry_New_Species_After_First_Survey_Current_Year:

a. Open the query in design view.

b. In the row labeled “Field”, replace the field name in the final column (which should display 

the previous year) with the current year. NOTE that this will not work unless there is data 

from the current year available, and the tables have been updated.

c. In the column labeled “Year”, replace the criteria with the current year (it should display the 

previous year).

9) Review species detected that are not in forest or grassland guilds. These species are excluded 

from the ecological integrity assessment calculation, and if new species show up that should be in 

the assessment (e.g., a new passerine detected in an NETN park), they will need to be added to 

the correct guild(s).

a. Run the query qry_Species_with_No_Guild_Forest; provide a start year and end year (e.g., 

use most recent data year for both). Review the list for species that should be in a forest 

guild.

b. Run the query qry_Species_with_No_Guild_Grassland; provide a start year and end year 

(e.g., use most recent data year for both). Review the list for species that should be in a 

grassland guild.

c. If any species need to be added to a forest or grassland guild, add them to the table 

“GuildMembers” (for forest) or “GuildMembers_Grassland” (for grassland).

d. Note: if a species is not in any guild, but should be included in the ecological integrity 

assessment as part of the breeding landbird community (currently no species fall in this 

category), add an entry to the appropriate table in the previous step, but do not assign a guild.

e. If you have modified guild membership, don’t forget to “Update Tables” from the main 

switchboard.

10) Make sure to update the Google Earth tables each year; from the main switchboard select 

“Updates”, then “Update Google Earth Tables”. The update may take several minutes.

11) The Park Summary Report will need to be updated every year:
SOP 7 - Data Management

Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures (continued).

167

a. Update the report’s record source to include the new year for both the total number of points 

and for Shannon diversity (add the fields using the query builder). Add these new fields to 

the report.

b. If Access is responding very slowly, the following steps can be sped up by cutting the Record 

Source string for the report and pasting it into notepad. After the rest of the steps are 

completed, paste the string back and save the report.

c. Copy a set of fields from an earlier year and paste them into a clear spot on the report. 

Separate out the overlapping fields and name them correctly: the bottom field (control source 

will be =[YYYY]) should be named YYYY. The field with no formatting is YYYYDefault; 

the italicized field is YYYYCommon; the bold field is YYYYPIF; and the bold/italics field is 

YYYYPIF_Common. Edit the data source for each field to refer to the correct year in each 

formula.

i. Conditional formatting could have been used to display the appropriate formatting for 

report data, but unfortunately conditional formatting does not export from Access.

d. Add text box to calculate richness, named YYYY_Richness

e. Add text box to calculate birds per point, named YYYY_BPP

12) The Site Summary Report will also need an annual update. Follow 3A through 3E. NOTE: New 

fields from the Park Summary Report can be copied and pasted to the Site Summary Report; 

pasted items will have the same names and formulas as in the original.

13) Verify that no bird codes corresponding to birds in an ecological integrity assessment guild have 

changed. Use a query to link the guild list table with the species lookup table, and use a join to 

determine whether there are species in the guild table that lack a corresponding code in the 

lookup table. Correct any mismatched codes.

14) Check for missing sites in the output reports. A common reason for sites to be dropped is a 

mismatch between the person recorded as making bird observations and the person recorded as 

making weather observations. If there is a mismatch, the existing weather entries will need to be 

deleted and re-entered with the correct observer (the observer cannot be changed after the fact).

Other Updates to the NETN Landbirds Database

1) Unknown Species and Synonyms. The NETN Landbirds database removes codes for 

unknown species (currently UAHA, UNBI, UNGU, UNHA, UNCS, and UNWO) prior to 

reporting, and also converts synonyms to preferred codes (currently CAGO to CANG, DEJU 

to SCJU, YRWA to MYWA, NOFL to YSFL, and SOVI to BHVI). The corrected table of 

species records is actually an intermediate table, “t_PointCounts_dist_AKN,” and the 

corrections are made by the query “Qry_t_Point_Counts_dist_AKN_2”. To change the 

unknown species exclusions or synonym conversion, modify the information in the third 

column of the query. To exclude a new Unknown code, add another “And <>” statement 
SOP 7 - Data Management

Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures (continued).

168

followed by the four letter code (in quotes). For a new synonym conversion, add a new 

nested IIF statement. Note that this query also limits the records to observers with skill level 

greater than “1”. It also excludes mammal observations, late afternoon surveys (anything 

after 3:30 PM), as well as data that are not fully QC’ed and approved (i.e., any data that is not 

“AVAILABLE Level 5”). 

2) PIF status table. The PIF priority codes are updated periodically, and are available from the 

Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory (rmbo.org/pifdb). Download and import a new table as 

follows:

a. Go to rmbo.org/pifdb. Click “Species Assessment Database”, then “latest scores” or go 

directly to the database at http://rmbo.org/pifassessment/Database.aspx. Then click “BCR 

Breeding List” and then “Download all BCRs”.

b. In Access, rename the table “ALL_BCRs” to “All_BCRs_YYYY” where YYYY is the 

previous year.

c. Select “External Data”... “Import & Link”... “Text File”. Browse to select the file, and 

then select “Import the source data into a new table...” and then click “OK”.

d. Select “Delimited” then click “Next”. Select “Comma” as the delimiter, click to check 

“First Row Contains Field Names”, and select double-quotes as the text qualifier. Click 

“Next” three times. Name the table “ALL_BCRs” and click “Finish”.

e. Compare the tables by opening each one. Look for changed field names, data types, and 

changes to the way the data are stored (e.g., “Y” and “N” changed to “True” and “False”. 

Currently the fields that are used by the PIF queries are: BCR, Common Name, Action, 

AOU_52, UCC, RC, CBSD, RS, and UCS.

f. Convert the “BCR” field to an Integer Number format.

g. If there have been changes to field names and formats, update all qry_PIF_CC_and_RC 

and qry_PIF_CC_and_RC_2 queries such that any changed fields are loaded into the _2 

query and then modified to look like the old values by the other query. This is so that 

changes don’t have to be cascaded through a large number of queries. Do the same for 

Qry_ALL_BCR and Qry_ALL_BCR_2, as well as the Qry_App_A group of queries.

h. Compare the common names in the new “ALL_BCRs” table to the common names in 

“Lookup_Species_AKN”. Any differences should be corrected in “ALL_BCRs” to 

ensure that the PIF information is not dropped on summary reports.
SOP 7 - Data Management

Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures (continued).

169

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 January 2006 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 

2006 field season.

1.01 April 2006 Brian Mitchell Added revision log.

2.00 October 2008 Steve Faccio Major revision to reflect use of the 

USGS Point Count Database.

Added Appendix 5.1: Data Entry 

Instructions.

Moved revision log to Appendix 

5.2.

3.00 March 2009 Brian Mitchell Moved revision log to Appendix 

5.3.

Added Appendix 5.2: NETN

Breeding Landbird Database 

Procedures.

3.01 April 2009 Brian Mitchell Updated Appendix 5.2 to reflect 

addition of park and site summary 

reports and charts, grassland 

ecological integrity assessment

reports, and some database 

maintenance tasks that will be 

needed each year.

3.02 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial 

changes.

3.03 December 2009 Steve Faccio 

and Brian 

Mitchell

Minor revision in response to 

reviewers comments; updated 

Appendix B to reflect changes in 

the database.

4.00 February 2010 Adam 

Kozlowski

Major revisions to body of 

document to flesh out specific 

QAQC procedures. Added Figures 

S7.1 through S7.3. Added 

instructions on handling mammal 

data.

4.01 May 2011 Brian Mitchell 

and Kevin 

Morris

Update online data entry 

instructions, including procedures 

for entering flock data. 

Update NETN Landbird database 

instructions to include 

management of volunteer 

information.

Refined procedures.

Need to eliminate data 

from poor observers.

4.02 May 2012 Brian Mitchell Update database management 

and updating instructions to reflect 

current version of the database.

Database revision.

4.03 December 2012 Brian Mitchell Update database management 

and updating instruction to reflect 

current version of the database.

Database revision.

4.04 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Data sheets must be mailed to 

Project Manager within a month of 

field data collection, even if sheets 

or online data entry are 

incomplete.

Removed references to project 

management by VCE, replaced 

Speed up data 

processing, entry, and 

QC.

Make SOP more 

general for future use.
SOP 7 - Data Management

Appendix S7.B. NETN Landbirds Database Procedures (continued).

170

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

with “Project Manager”.

Revise data procedures to reflect 

incorporation of mammal data in

new online database.

Original data forms are now sent 

to NETN rather than retained by 

the contractor. Copies are not 

needed, since forms are scanned 

and placed on IRMA.

The Point Count Database is now 

part of the Avian Knowledge 

Network rather than USGS.

Updated SOP numbers due to 

insertion of SOP 6 (recorder QC 

procedures).

Updated data entry procedures.

Updated procedures for 

downloading data copy and linking 

to NETN Landbird database.

Change in online 

database

Original forms should 

not reside with a 

contractor

Change in database 

manager

Adjustment due to new 

SOP

New online database

New online database

4.05 January 2015 Brian Mitchell Removed references to Connect 

the Dots and Mammal Data Entry 

portions of database (Appendix 

S7.B).

Revised procedures for verifying 

observers and other annual 

updates to the database

(Appendix S7.B)

Updated location of PIF data 

(Appendix S7.B).

Removed references to wind 

direction and updated procedures 

and photos to match current 

online database

Outdated database 

references removed.

Outdated procedure.

RMBO revised web site.

Wind direction no longer 

recorded.
171

SOP 8 - Data Analysis 

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 1.04

Overview

This SOP discusses analytical procedures for breeding landbird data collected using point counts. 

A wide variety of appropriate analytical methods may be used with point count data, depending on 

the objectives of the monitoring program, as well as those of the various parks within the Northeast 

Temperate Network (NETN). Analyses will include annual summaries that consist of relatively 

simple statistical tabulations, and periodically more complex methods that may include estimates of 

population densities, trends, and species habitat associations. In some cases, these more complex 

analyses may require the assistance of a professional biostatistician.

With minor exceptions, our data analysis procedures and recommendations will follow those 

described in SOP #9 of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Landbird Monitoring Protocol 

(Knutson et al. 2008). That document provides recommendations about which analyses should occur 

annually, and which should occur on a periodic basis (e.g., every 3-5 years). We will work with the 

USFWS and Point Blue to streamline some common data summaries and analyses to enhance the 

usefulness of the Bird Point Count Database. Below we describe the two primary ways that our data 

analysis methods will differ from Knutson et al. (2008).

1. In the USFWS protocols, vegetation data are collected in association with bird point counts 

(see SOP #6 in Knutson et al. 2008), and recommendations are made in SOP #9 on how to 

summarize and analyze these data annually and periodically. Although we are not collecting 

habitat data at each avian point count, forest vegetation sampling is being conducted within 

NETN parks, and we will attempt to associate vegetation data from nearby forest monitoring 

plots that are in the same habitat type using appropriate statistical methods.

2. We will assess the biological integrity of the avian community as described in SOP #7, rather 

than using methods based on Howe et al. (2007a, 2007b) as described in SOP #9 of the 

USFWS protocol.

Beginning in 2013, NETN will develop additional analyses that may become standardized for trend 

reporting. If standardized analyses are possible (e.g., for occupancy modeling), details will be added 

to this SOP.
SOP 8 - Data Analysis

172

Literature Cited

Howe, R. W., R. R. Regal, J. Hanowski, G. J. Niemi, N. P. Danz, and C. R. Smith. 2007a. An index 

of ecological condition based on bird assemblages in Great Lakes coastal wetlands. Journal of 

Great Lakes Research 33:93-105.

Howe, R. W., R. R. Regal, G. J. Niemi, N. P. Danz, and J. Hanowski. 2007b. Probability-based 

indicator of ecological condition. Ecological Indicators 7:793-806.

Knutson, M. G., N. P. Danz, T. W. Sutherland, and B. R. Gray. 2008. Landbird Monitoring Protocol 

for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Midwest and Northeast Regions, Version 1. Biological 

Monitoring Team Technical Report BMT-2008-01. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, La Crosse, 

Wisconson.

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 April 2009 Steve Faccio SOP written.

1.01 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Revision History Log added

Formatting, minor editorial 

changes.

1.02 December 2009 Brian Mitchell Removed reference to Appendix 2 

and added statement that 

additional details will be provided 

as standardized analyses are 

developed.

1.03 December 2012 Brian Mitchell Updated data analysis work 

postponed to 2013.

Insufficient time and staff 

for analyses.

1.04 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Replace reference to USGS with 

Point Blue and USFWS.

Update SOP number.

USGS is no longer 

managing database.

New SOP.
173

SOP 9 - Data Reporting 

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 2.05

Overview

This SOP explains the procedure for data reporting.

Effective communication and reporting is essential for transforming field data into a format that is 

both useful and clearly understandable by park managers, scientists, the public, and policy makers. 

This will be accomplished by developing standard statistical summaries of vital sign measurements, 

as well as developing a biological integrity scorecard that provides basic interpretation of the status 

and trends for this vital sign. Refer to SOP 8 – Data Analysis for a description of how to summarize 

and analyze the data.

Several different types of reports summarizing and interpreting breeding landbird survey data may be 

presented, including annual reports, analysis and synthesis reports (e.g., population trends and habitat 

relationships), protocol review reports, scientific journal articles, and symposia, meetings, and 

workshops. At a minimum, two different interim (annual) reports will be produced at the close of 

each season’s fieldwork: the Northeast Temperate Network (NETN) Fiscal Year Report, and an 

Annual Data Summary Report. 

NETN Fiscal Year Report

Due annually in October, this consists of a brief (< 1-page) report summarizing any highlights and 

significant findings, including any publications, reports, and presentations, that have come out of the 

work over the course of the fiscal year. The NETN Program Manager will provide guidance and 

examples of previous reports as needed.

Annual Data Summary Report

This report summarizes results from the field season by park, and describes patterns of breeding 

landbird composition, distribution, and change, as well as assessing the biotic integrity of the avian 

community (see below). This report is due by March/April each year following a survey and is 

submitted to the NETN Program Manager, to each NETN park, and to all volunteer participants. 

Forest Breeding Landbird Assessment

An assessment of the biotic integrity of the avian community based on an assemblage of behavioral 

and physiological response guilds, similar to O’Connell et al. (2000), will be utilized for forest 

breeding landbirds (an assessment and scorecard ranking for the grassland breeding landbird 

community at Saratoga and Minute Man NHPs is discussed below). Such a biotic integrity scorecard 

will help elucidate changes in a broader, landscape context and indicate in which direction the park 

may be moving along a disturbance gradient from “highly disturbed” or “urban,” to “pristine” or 

“natural.” Croonquist and Brooks (1991) demonstrated that response guilds, which are groups of 

species that require similar habitat, food, or other elements for survival, are effective indicators of 
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

174

habitat disturbance. Changes in availability of specific resources are manifested as population 

responses in the species dependent on that resource. For example, the loss of snags in a forest stand 

can result in a decrease in the guild of bark-probing insectivores. As O’Connell et al. (2000) indicate, 

an assessment of response guilds functions like an index of biotic integrity (Karr 1991, Karr and Chu 

1999), providing a system-specific framework in which species assemblages can be ranked on a 

qualitative scale. This type of avian integrity assessment provides a means to estimate condition that, 

unlike species richness or Shannon diversity, is not confounded by intermediate levels of disturbance 

as demonstrated by Blair (1996).

The guild-based avian integrity scorecard is based upon O’Connell et al. (2000) and consists of 13 

guilds in eight guild categories (Table S9.1). Individual guilds were broadly categorized as 

“specialist” or “generalist” based on each guild’s relationship to specific elements of ecosystem 

structure, function, and composition (Noss 1990). A specialist can be a species with a narrow range 

of habitat tolerances, or one that exhibits a low intrinsic rate of population increase. For our purposes, 

specialist guilds may be thought of as “guilds indicative of a high-integrity condition” while 

generalist guilds are “guilds indicative of a low-integrity condition.” For example, the Nest 

Placement guilds relate directly to the availability of appropriate nesting substrate (a structural 

element). Therefore, breeding landbirds that only nest in the forest canopy (specialists) indicate high 

integrity condition because they are largely restricted to mature forests native to the region, while 

shrub nesters (generalists) also encounter appropriate nesting substrate in regenerating forests, 

agricultural hedgerows, and suburban areas. Functional elements of the ecosystem reflect trophic 

organization. For example, insectivores are limited to areas of high insect availability (specialists), 

while omnivores can exploit the range of food resources found in varied habitats (generalists).

Ecosystem composition reflects organization induced by factors other than structure and function 

(e.g., interspecific dynamics). For example, species in the nest predator/brood parasite guild can 

affect the abundance and distribution of other species. We consider nest predators and brood 

parasites to be generalists due to their relatively indiscriminate exploitation of other species as 

sources of food or surrogate parents, while many single-brooded species (specialists) are restricted to 

large habitat patches that are relatively free from nest predators and brood parasites.

It is important to keep in mind that guilds were selected to reflect different aspects of each species’ 

life history traits. Therefore, species may belong to several guilds simultaneously, including both 

specialist and generalist guilds.

With species assigned to guilds (Appendix S9.A), the proportional species richness of each guild is 

calculated. Following O’Connell et al. (2000), the species list is limited to five groups: Passeriformes 

(perching birds), Piciformes (woodpeckers), Cuculiformes (cuckoos), Apodiformes (swifts and 

hummingbirds), and Columbiformes (doves). Proportional species richness is then the number of 

guild members detected, divided by the total number of species detected from the five groups. This 

value is used to determine a rank of “Good”, “Caution”, or “Significant Concern” (Table S9.2). 

“Good” represents acceptable or desired conditions (a high level of ecological function); “Caution” 

indicates a problem may exist; “Significant Concern” indicates undesired conditions (hampered 

ecological function) that may benefit from management action.
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

175

Table S9.1. Biotic integrity elements, guild categories, response guilds, and guild interpretations used in 

avian biotic integrity scorecard.

Biotic Integrity 

Element Guild Category Response Guild Specialist Generalist

Functional Trophic Omnivore X

Functional Insectivore forager Bark prober X

Functional Insectivore forager Ground gleaner X

Functional Insectivore forager High Canopy forager X

Functional Insectivore forager Low Canopy forager X

Compositional Origin Exotic X

Compositional Migratory Resident X

Compositional Number of broods Single-brooded X

Compositional Population limiting Nest predator/brood parasite X

Structural Nest Placement Canopy Nester X

Structural Nest Placement Shrub Nester X

Structural Nest Placement Forest-ground Nester X

Structural Primary habitat Interior forest obligate X

Table S9.2. Avian Integrity Ranks for 13 response guilds and proportional species richness thresholds 

(based on O’Connell et al. 2000, and Glennon and Porter 2005).

Biotic Integrity 

Element

Response Guild Metric

(Proportional Species Richness)

Ratings

 Good Caution Significant

 Concern

Functional Omnivore <30% 30-50% >50%

Bark Prober >11% 4-11% <4%

Ground Gleaner >9% 4-9% <4%

High Canopy Forager >12% 7-12% <7%

Low Canopy Forager >22% 14-22% <14%

Compositional Exotic Species 0% 0.5-7% >7%

Residents <28% 28-41% >41%

Single Brooded >68% 50-68% <50%

Nest Predators/Brood Parasite <10% 10-15% >15%

Structural Canopy Nester >35% 29-35% <29%

Shrub Nester <18% 18-24% >24%

Forest-ground Nester >18% 5-18% <5%

Interior Forest Obligate >35% 10-35% <10%

For example, if the breeding landbird community at a given site contains a total of 10 species, two of 

which are omnivores, then 20% of the species at that site are in the omnivore guild, and the site 

receives a rank of “Good” for that guild (Table S9.2). The proportional species richness thresholds 

and ranks are largely based on those derived by O’Connell et al. (2000) for breeding landbirds in 

forested habitats in the central Appalachians, as well as from those derived by Glennon and Porter 

(2005) for New York’s Adirondack Park. Considering the wide geographic range over which the 11 

NETN parks are distributed, the threshold values listed in Table S9.2 may need to be adjusted by 

bioregion, forest type or Bird Conservation Region (BCR), rather than Network-wide. Additionally, 
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

176

these threshold values can be refined over time as new information about their ecological relevance is 

obtained. 

Some ecological integrity reporting efforts have developed point-based indices to aggregate 

information describing integrity of individual metrics into overall ecosystem scores (Karr 1981, 

O’Connell et al. 2000). The success of those efforts relies upon a subjective understanding of the 

relative importance of individual metrics in determining overall ecosystem integrity, and in some 

cases may obscure individual ecosystem components that are in need of attention. Thus, this avian 

integrity scorecard attempts to concisely convey information on each individual response guild 

metric, and provide summary information only on the number of metrics classified as “Good,” 

“Caution,” and “Significant Concern” in each park. We recognize that the National Park Service 

(NPS) will need to aggregate this information at higher levels (such as by Vital Sign) for reporting at 

the national level. For that reason, this scorecard adheres to NPS Vital Signs reporting conventions, 

and should provide NPS with the necessary information for aggregation.

The following section provides an overview, justification, and scaling rationale for each metric.

Functional Guilds

Omnivores

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of omnivorous species within the avian community.

Metric Justification: Omnivores can exploit a wide range of food resources found in varied habitats, 

and therefore are considered generalists that do not require high integrity or specialized habitats. This 

large guild consists of 44 species, including American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), Blue Jay 

(Cyanocitta cristata), American Robin (Turdus migratorius), Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus 

ater), and sparrow species.

Scaling Rationale: O’Connell et al. (2000) found that as you move along a gradient from highintegrity to low-integrity the proportion of omnivores in the breeding landbird community increased 

from roughly 25% to > 50% of the species. This was less dramatic in the Adirondacks, with Glennon 

and Porter (2005) reporting about 29% in wilderness areas to 38% in low-density village areas.

Good = < 30%

Caution = 30-50%

Sig. Concern = > 50%

Bark Probers

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that forage 

primarily by bark probing.

Metric Justification: Bark probers are insectivores that require specialized foraging opportunities, 

including standing snags, large diameter coarse woody debris (CWD), and/or mature to old-growth 

trees with deeply furrowed or flaking bark providing substrates that support abundant insect 

populations. Examples of bark probers include Black-and-White Warbler (Mniotilta varia), Brown 
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

177

Creeper (Certhia americana), Red- and White-breasted nuthatches (Sitta canadensis, Sitta 

carolinensis), as well as woodpecker species.

Scaling Rationale: At high-integrity sites, O’Connell et al. (2000) found that bark probers made up 

roughly 12% of the species in the community, but declined to 4% at low-integrity sites.

Good = > 11%

Caution = 4-11%

Sig. Concern = < 4%

Ground Gleaners

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that forage 

primarily by gleaning insects from the ground.

Metric Justification: Ground gleaners are specialized insectivores that forage primarily by picking up 

invertebrates directly from the ground surface or leaf litter. This guild consists of seven species; 

Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus), Hermit Thrush(Catharus guttatus), Kentucky Warbler 

(Oporornis formosus), Worm-eating Warbler (Helmitheros vermivorus), Mourning Warbler 

(Oporornis philadelphia), Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), and Winter Wren (Troglodytes 

troglodytes). 

Scaling Rationale: Similar to bark probers, O’Connell et al. (2000) found that the proportion of 

ground gleaners in the community decreased as you move from high-to-low integrity sites, 

presumably as specialized foraging opportunities and/or insect biomass declines.

Good = > 10%

Caution = 4-10%

Sig. Concern = < 4%

High Canopy Foragers

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that forages 

primarily in the high canopy.

Metric Justification: High canopy foragers specialize in feeding high in the forest canopy. These 

species are typically restricted to mature forests and many are considered forest interior obligates. 

The vast majority of the 15 species in this guild are insectivores, including Blackburnian Warbler 

(Dendroica fusca), Cape May Warbler (Dendroica tigrina), and Bay-breasted Warbler (Dendroica 

castanea), Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea), and Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus). 

However, both Red (Loxia curvirostra )and White-winged (Loxia leucoptera) crossbills, which 

specialize in feeding on conifer seeds, are also included this category.

Scaling Rationale: The proportion of species in a community that forage in the high canopy declines 

from about 13% to 6% as you move along a gradient from high- to low-integrity (O’Connell et al. 

2000).
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Good = > 12%

Caution = 7-12%

Sig. Concern = < 7%

Low Canopy Foragers

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that forage 

primarily in the low canopy.

Metric Justification: Primarily insectivores that specialize in feeding in the understory of forests, 

forest edges, or in early successional stands, this guild consists of 29 species, including Black-capped 

(Poecile atricapillus), Boreal (Poecile hudsonicus), and Carolina (Poecile carolinensis) chickadees, 

Black-billed (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) and Yellow-billed (Coccyzus americanus) cuckoos, and 15 

species of warblers.

Scaling Rational: Low canopy foragers were relatively well-represented in all integrity categories 

(O’Connell et al. 2000), although a decline in proportional species richness is clearly evident along a 

gradient from high- to low-integrity sites. At high-integrity sites roughly 23% of the species in the 

community were low canopy foragers, while 13% of this guild was found at low-integrity sites.

Good = > 22%

Caution = 14-22%

Sig. Concern = < 14%

Compositional Guilds

Exotic Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that are 

exotics.

Metric Justification: The effects of exotic species on the structure, composition and function of 

natural systems have become a chief concern of ecologists and land managers over the last 20 years

(Drake et al. 1989). The introduction of exotic bird species has resulted in a variety of ecological 

problems ranging from the extinction of indigenous species and the disruption of natural 

communities (Temple 1992), to increased competition for nest sites (Kerpez and Smith 1990). This 

guild consists of four species; European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), House Finch (Carpodacus 

mexicanus), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), and Rock Dove (Columba livia).

Scaling Rationale: O’Connell et al. (2000) found that the proportion of exotics increased from 0% in 

high-integrity communities to roughly 16% at low-integrity urban sites. In New York State’s 

Adirondack Park, Glennon and Porter (2005) found the proportion of exotic birds averaged about 

0.1% in wilderness sites, to 2.2% at low-density rural sites, and 5.2% in low-density village areas.

Good = 0%

Caution = 0.5-7%

Sig. Concern = > 7%
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Resident Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that are 

resident in the study area year-round.

Metric Justification: The non-migratory resident guild is made up of 31 species that exploit a variety 

of habitats and food resources. Most of these species occupy edge habitats, are tolerant of human 

disturbance, relatively early breeders, opportunistic foragers, and some may produce multiple broods 

in a season. This guild includes the corvids, chickadees, nuthatches, and all four exotics listed above.

Scaling Rationale: The proportion of non-migratory resident species in the community ranged from 

28% at high-integrity sites, to 42% at low-integrity rural sites, to roughly 70% at low-integrity urban 

sites (O’Connell et al. 2000, Schmiegelow et al. 1997).

Good = < 28%

Caution = 28-41%

Sig. Concern = > 41%

Single Brooded

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that are 

single-brooded (e.g., do not produce a second clutch of eggs after successfully fledging young).

Metric Justification: Many single-brooded species are restricted to interior forest habitat, and are 

absent from smaller forest fragments due to increased competition and higher rates of predation and 

nest parasitism associated with edge habitats (Freemark and Collins 1992). This large guild contains 

72 species, the vast majority of which are long-distance, neotropical migrants, including flycatchers, 

warblers, orioles, vireos and others.

Scaling Rationale: At high-integrity sites, O’Connell et al. (2000) found that nearly 75% of the 

breeding landbird community was comprised of single-brooded species, while at low-integrity sites 

the proportion dropped to <40%. In the Adirondack Park, Glennon and Porter (2005) found that in 

wilderness areas, single-brooded species made up nearly 79% of the breeding landbird community, 

but dropped to 61% in forest stands within developed areas of the park.

Good = > 68%

Caution = 50-68%

Sig. Concern = < 50%

Nest Predators/Brood Parasites

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that are nest 

predators or brood parasites.

Metric Justification: Nest predators and brood parasites have been shown to negatively affect the 

distribution, abundance, and nest success of other breeding landbird species, particularly neotropical 

migrants (Wilcove 1985, Robinson et al. 1993), and these effects increase significantly in fragmented 

and edge habitats (Robinson et al. 1995). This guild consists of seven species, six of which are nest 
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predators (including five corvids and the European Starling), and the Brown-headed Cowbird, a 

brood parasite.

Scaling Rationale: O’Connell et al. (2000) found this guild increases from < 10% of the species in 

the community at high-integrity sites, to > 20% at low-integrity urban sites.

Good = < 10%

Caution = 10-15%

Sig. Concern = > 15%

Structural Guilds

Canopy Nesters

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that nest in 

the canopy.

Metric Justification: Tree canopy nesters are considered specialists indicative of high integrity 

because they typically require mature forests native to the region. This guild consists of 33 species 

ranging from American (Corvus brachyrhynchos) and Fish crow (Corvus ossifragus), to Eastern 

Wood-Pewee (Contopus virens), Baltimore (Icterus galbula) and Orchard orioles (Icterus spurious), 

and several warblers.

Scaling Justification: O’Connell et al. (2000) found canopy nesters decreasing from 37% of the 

community in high-integrity sites, to about 25% in lower-integrity sites.

Good = > 35%

Caution = 29-35%

Sig. Concern = < 29%

Shrub Nesters

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that nest in 

the shrub layer, including forest understory, agricultural hedgerows, early successional habitats, and 

suburban areas.

Metric Justification: Shrub nesters, considered generalists, typically do not require specialized 

habitats such as mature forests, but encounter suitable nesting substrate in a variety of areas, from 

regenerating forests, to hedgerows, ornamental plantings, and forest edges. This guild contains 26 

species ranging from American Goldfinch (Carduelis tristis), to Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea), 

Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) and several warblers.

Scaling Rationale: In the Adirondack Park, Glennon and Porter (2005) found the proportion of shrub 

nesters in the community increased from 16% in wilderness areas to about 21% in more developed 

regions of the park. In the central Appalachians, O’Connell et al. (2000) found this guild represented 

about 21% of high-integrity communities, and increased to 29% at low-integrity sites.

Good = < 18%

Caution = 18-24%
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Sig. Concern = > 24%

Forest-ground Nesters

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that nest on 

the ground within forested habitat.

Metric Justification: This guild consists of 16 species, 10 of which are warblers that require specific 

habitat characteristics for nesting. It includes species that nest in mature forest stands as well as in 

early successional or regenerating forests. Studies have demonstrated that overbrowse associated 

with high densities of White-tailed Deer in forests of eastern North America have significant effects 

on the abundance and diversity of understory and ground nesting forest breeding landbirds (McShea 

and Rappole 2000), and may be contributing to long-term declines associated with several species.

Scaling Rationale: O’Connell et al. (2000) found that forest-ground nesters comprised 20% of the 

breeding landbird community at high-integrity sites, and declined to 3% at low-integrity rural sites, 

and 0% in low-integrity urban sites.

Good = > 18%

Caution = 5-18%

Sig. Concern = < 5%

Interior Forest Obligates

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian community that requires 

larger blocks of interior forests.

Metric Justification: Smaller forest fragments (<10ha) tend to support few, if any, area-sensitive or 

forest-interior landbirds (Robbins et al. 1989, Freemark and Collins 1992). In the latter study, sites 

with the greatest overall forest cover supported the highest numbers of area-sensitive species, and the 

numbers of forest-interior species increased most rapidly with forest size. Also, both O’Connell et al. 

(2000) and Glennon and Porter (2005) demonstrated that the interior forest guild declined with 

increasing human disturbance.

Scaling Rationale: In the central Appalachians, O’Connell et al. (2000) found that interior forest 

obligates accounted for nearly 50% of the breeding landbird community at high-integrity sites, but 

declined rapidly to about 5% at low-integrity urban sites. In the Adirondacks, Glennon and Porter 

(2005) found that interior forest birds represented about 26% of the bird community in wilderness 

and wild forest lands, compared to 15% in low density developed areas of the park.

Good = > 35%

Caution = 10-35%

Sig. Concern = < 10%

Grassland Breeding Landbird Assessment—Draft

The integrity of the grassland breeding landbird community at Saratoga NHP (SARA) and Minute 

Man NHP (MIMA) will be assessed with metrics based on the abundance and proportional richness 
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of grassland obligate species, shrub-dependant species, edge generalist species, and exotics (Tables 

S9.3 and S9.4). The proportional species richness will be calculated the same way as in the forest 

breeding landbird assessment, except that two raptors are included in the grassland obligate guild and 

the total species count. In addition, for both the grassland and shrubland groups, we will report the 

proportion of PIF priority species for BCR 13 (SARA) and 30 (MIMA) that are detected out of the 

total number of PIF priority species for each group (e.g., the number of PIF Priority grassland species 

detected divided by the total number of PIF Priority grassland species). This will help us measure the 

overall value of grassland and early successional communities at SARA and MIMA to rare or 

declining breeding landbirds that are dependent on these habitats within the region (Table S9.3). The 

threshold values for these metrics were determined from Browder et al. (2002) and Coppedge et al. 

(2006), and using data from the pilot season of grassland surveys at SARA. These values may be 

refined over time as additional regional and park-specific data are accumulated and analyzed.

Table S9.3 Avian scorecard metrics for grassland breeding landbird surveys at Saratoga NHP, Saratoga, 

New York.

Good Caution Significant 

Metric Concern

Abundance (birds/point)

 Edge generalist species < 15 15-30 > 30

 Shrub-dependant species < 1.0 1.0-5.0 > 5.0

 Grassland obligate species > 4.0 1.5-4.0 < 1.5

 Exotic species 0.0 0.1-1.0 > 1.0

Proportional Species Richness (%)

 Edge generalist species < 35% 35-70% > 70%

 Shrub-dependant species < 10% 10-25% > 25%

 Grassland obligate species > 10% 5-10% < 5%

 Exotic species 0% 0.1-3% > 3%

 Proportion of PIF Priority Grassland Species for:

 BCR 13 (# detected/8)

 BCR 30 (# detected/5)

> 70% 50-70% < 50%

 Proportion of PIF Priority Shrubland Species for:

 BCR 13 (# detected/7)

 BCR 30 (# detected/7)

>75 50-75% < 50%

Edge Generalist Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the abundance and proportion of species within the avian 

community that use a variety of habitat edges adjacent to grassland habitats such as forest edges, 

wetlands, roadside and agricultural hedgerows, and early successional shrublands.

Metric Justification: Edge species are habitat generalists that do not respond to the presence of the 

large, contiguous grassland habitat being surveyed, and are just as likely to be found in suburban 

parks, residential developments, and powerline rights-of-way. This guild contains 43 species ranging 

from American and Fish Crows, to Mourning Dove, Song Sparrow, and Eastern Bluebird. Eleven 

(26%) of the species in this guild, are listed as conservation priorities for BCR 13 (encompassing 

SARA) by PIF, while eight (19%) are listed for BCR 30, which includes MIMA (Table S9.4).
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Scaling Rationale: Pilot data from the 25 grassland point counts surveyed at SARA in 2006, resulted 

in an edge species abundance of 11.5 individuals per point. In addition, 66% of the species detected 

consisted of edge species. Making an assumption that the SARA grassland habitats are somewhere in 

the middle along an ecological integrity gradient due to the relative size of the fields, as well as their 

proximity to roads, and impacts from human disturbance and other factors, we adjusted the 

thresholds accordingly.

Abundance (individuals/point)

Good = < 15.0

Caution = 15.0-30.0

Sig. Concern = > 30.0

Proportional Species Richness

Good = < 35%

Caution = 35-70%

Sig. Concern = > 70%

Shrub-dependent Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the abundance and proportion of species within the community that 

depend upon early successional forest and old field/shrub habitats. Generally these habitats are 

maintained through management practices such as periodic (biennial) brush hogging and timbers 

harvests, but in some cases—such as shrub wetlands—occur naturally. Shrub-dependent species 

prefer habitats, such as old fields, that have a mix of young, woody plants and grasses, but are not 

found in grasslands that are mowed annually or grazed by livestock.

Metric Justification: This guild consists of 13 habitat specialists that depend upon early 

successional/shrub habitats for nesting. Three species—Brown Thrasher (Toxostoma rufum), Eastern 

Towhee (Toxostoma rufum), Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla)—in this guild are showing long-term 

declines based on BBS data from BCR 13, which includes SARA (Sauer et al. 2005), while four are 

showing increasing trends. In addition, seven (54%) of the species are listed by PIF as conservation 

priorities for BCR 13 and BCR 30 (Table S9.4). 

Scaling Rationale: Results from the pilot season of grassland surveys at SARA resulted in an 

abundance of 3.0 individuals per point for shrub-dependent species. In addition, 23% of the species 

detected were shrubland species. Making an assumption that the SARA grassland habitats are 

somewhere in the middle along an ecological integrity gradient due to the relative size of the fields, 

as well as their proximity to roads, and impacts from human disturbance and other factors, we 

adjusted the thresholds accordingly.
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Table S9.4. Species assignments within grassland obligate, shrub-dependent, and edge generalist 

guilds, and PIF priority codes for BCR 13 and BCR 30, based on 2012 data from Partners in Flight.

Guild Common Name BCR 13 BCR 30

Edge Generalist American Crow X X

Edge Generalist American Goldfinch UCS PR X

Edge Generalist American Robin X X

Edge Generalist Baltimore Oriole RC RS UCS MA RC MA

Edge Generalist Bank Swallow CBSD RC MA CBSD 

Edge Generalist Barn Swallow RC MA X

Edge Generalist Black‐billed Cuckoo CBSD RC RS UCC UCS

MA CBSD UCC PR

Edge Generalist Black‐capped Chickadee X X

Edge Generalist Blue Jay X X

Edge Generalist Blue‐gray Gnatcatcher X X

Edge Generalist Brown headed Cowbird X X

Edge Generalist Cedar Waxwing UCS PR X

Edge Generalist Cliff Swallow X X

Edge Generalist Common Grackle X X

Edge Generalist Common Raven X X

Edge Generalist Eastern Bluebird X X

Edge Generalist Eastern Kingbird RC MA RC MA

Edge Generalist Eastern Phoebe X X

Edge Generalist European Starling X X

Edge Generalist Fish Crow X X

Edge Generalist Gray Catbird X UCS PR

Edge Generalist Great Crested Flycatcher X X

Edge Generalist House Finch X X

Edge Generalist House Sparrow X X

Edge Generalist House Wren X X

Edge Generalist Least Flycatcher RC MA X

Edge Generalist Mourning Dove X X

Edge Generalist Northern Bobwhite X X

Edge Generalist Northern Cardinal X X

Edge Generalist Northern Mockingbird X X

Edge Generalist Northern Rough‐winged 

Swallow X X

Edge Generalist Orchard Oriole X X

Edge Generalist Red‐winged Blackbird X X
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Guild Common Name BCR 13 BCR 30

Edge Generalist Rock Pigeon X X

Edge Generalist Ruby‐throated Hummingbird X X

Edge Generalist Song Sparrow UCS PR X

Edge Generalist Tree Swallow UCS PR X

Edge Generalist Tufted Titmouse X X

Edge Generalist Warbling Vireo X X

Edge Generalist White‐throated Sparrow X X

Edge Generalist Yellow‐billed Cuckoo X X

Edge Generalist Yellow‐throated Vireo X X

Exotic European Starling X X

Exotic House Finch X X

Exotic House Sparrow X X

Exotic Rock Pigeon X X

Grassland Obligate American Kestrel RC MA RC MA

Grassland Obligate Bobolink CBSD RC RS UCC UCS

MA CBSD UCC PR

Grassland Obligate Eastern Meadowlark CBSD RC MA CBSD

Grassland Obligate Grasshopper Sparrow CBSD CBSD RC IM

Grassland Obligate Henslow's Sparrow RC UCC IM RC UCC CR 

Grassland Obligate Northern Harrier RC MA X

Grassland Obligate Savannah Sparrow RC MA X

Grassland Obligate Vesper Sparrow RC IM X

Shrub‐dependent Alder Flycatcher X X

Shrub‐dependent Blue‐winged Warbler RC RS UCS MA RC RS UCS MA

Shrub‐dependent Brown Thrasher RC MA RC MA

Shrub‐dependent Chestnut‐sided Warbler X RC MA

Shrub‐dependent Common Yellowthroat X X

Shrub‐dependent Eastern Towhee RC MA RC MA

Shrub‐dependent Field Sparrow CBSD RC MA CBSD RC MA

Shrub‐dependent Golden‐winged Warbler RC UCC MA RC UCC MA 

Shrub‐dependent Indigo Bunting X X

Shrub‐dependent Mourning Warbler X

Shrub‐dependent Prairie Warbler CBSD UCC PR CBSD RC UCC MA 

Shrub‐dependent Willow Flycatcher UCS PR X

Shrub‐dependent Yellow Warbler X X
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X = Present in BCR; CBSD = Common Bird in Steep Decline; RC = Regional Concern; RS = Regional

Stewardship;

UCC = U.S.‐Canada Concern; UCS = U.S.‐Canada Stewardship; CR = Critical Recovery Action Needed; IM =

Immediate Management Action

Needed;

MA = Management Attention Needed; PR = Planning and Responsibility Actions Needed

Abundance (individuals/point)

Good = < 1.0

Caution = 1.0-5.0

Sig. Concern = > 5.0

Proportional Species Richness

Good = < 10%

Caution = 10-25%

Sig. Concern = > 25%

Grassland Obligate Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the abundance and proportion of species that are dependant on 

grassland habitat. Breeding landbirds in this guild prefer large open fields with a variety of grass 

species and little if any woody vegetation. Most often these habitats are maintained through annual 

late-season mowing or livestock grazing. 

Metric Justification: The presence of many grassland species, combined with the absence of those 

species associated with woody vegetation, human-made structures, or cropland, can predict a 

measure of grassland integrity (Browder et al. 2002). The majority of the species in this guild are 

found more frequently in relatively large grasslands than smaller fragments. This guild consists of 

eight species, seven of which show long-term population declines on BBS routes from BCR 13 

between 1966 and 2005 (Sauer et al. 2005). In addition, all of the species are listed as conservation 

priorities in BCR 13 by PIF, and five (63%) are listed as priority species in BCR 30 (Table S9.4).

Scaling Rationale: Using results from the pilot season of grassland surveys at SARA, we found that 

the abundance of grassland obligates was 2.4 individuals per point. In addition, 11% of the species 

detected were grassland obligates. Assuming that the SARA grassland habitats are somewhere in the 

middle along an ecological integrity gradient due to the relative size of the fields, as well as their 

proximity to roads, and impacts from human disturbance and other factors, we adjusted the 

thresholds accordingly.

Abundance (individuals/point)

Good = > 4.0

Caution = 1.5-4.0

Sig. Concern = < 1.5

Proportional Species Richness

Good = > 10%
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Caution = 5-10%

Sig. Concern = < 5%

Exotic Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of species within the avian grassland community that 

are exotics.

Metric Justification: The effects of exotic species on the structure, composition and function of 

natural systems have become a chief concern of ecologists and land managers over the last 20 years 

(Drake et al. 1989). The introduction of exotic bird species has resulted in a variety of ecological 

problems ranging from the extinction of indigenous species and the disruption of natural 

communities (Temple 1992), to increased competition for nest sites (Kerpez and Smith 1990). This 

guild consists of four species; European Starling, House Finch, House Sparrow, and Rock Dove.

Scaling Rationale: O’Connell et al. (2000) found that the proportion of exotics increased from 0% in 

high-integrity communities to roughly 16% at low-integrity urban sites. In New York State’s 

Adirondack Park, Glennon and Porter (2005) found the proportion of exotic birds averaged about 

0.1% in wilderness sites, to 2.2% at low-density rural sites, and 5.2% in low-density village areas. 

Results from the pilot season of data collection showed that grassland habitats at SARA supported 

0.4 individual exotics per point, and the only non-native observed was European Starling, 

representing 2% of the species detected.

Abundance (individuals/point)

Good = 0

Caution = 0.1-1.0

Sig. Concern = > 1.0

Proportional Species Richness

Good = 0

Caution = 0.1-3%

Sig. Concern = > 3%

PIF Priority Grassland Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of grassland species detected that are listed as 

conservation priorities for BCR 13 by PIF.

Metric Justification: All eight of the species included in the grassland obligate guild are listed as PIF 

priority species for BCR 13 (Table S9.4). The proportion that occurs on SARA grasslands is a 

measure of the value of these habitats for rare and/or declining species in the region.

Scaling Justification: Results from the pilot season of data collection showed that grassland habitats 

at SARA supported five grassland obligate landbirds, representing 63% of the PIF-listed priorities. 

Proportional Species Richness

Good = > 70%
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Caution = 50-70%

Sig. Concern = < 50%

PIF Priority Shrubland Species

Overview: This metric evaluates the proportion of shrubland species detected that are listed as 

conservation priorities for BCR 13 by PIF.

Metric Justification: Seven (54%) of the 13 species included in the shrubland guild are listed as PIF 

priority species for BCR 13 and BCR 30 (Table S9.4). The proportion that was detected during 

SARA grassland surveys is a measure of the value of the park for rare and/or declining shrubland 

species in the region.

Scaling Rationale: Results from the pilot season of data collection showed that shrubland habitats at 

SARA supported six (86%) of the seven shrubland species listed as PIF priorities.

Proportional Species Richness

Good = > 75%

Caution = 50-75%

Sig. Concern = < 50%
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Robinson, S. K., F. R. Thompson III, T. M. Donovan, D. Whitehead, and J. Faaborg. 1995. Regional 

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Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity 

scorecard. Species listed alphabetically within each guild.

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Functional Omnivore American Crow

American Goldfinch

American Robin

Baltimore Oriole

Blue Jay

Bobolink

Brown Thrasher

Brown-headed Cowbird

Chipping Sparrow

Common Grackle

Common Raven

Dark-eyed Junco

Eastern Bluebird

Eastern Meadowlark

Eastern Towhee

European Starling

Evening Grosbeak

Field Sparrow

Fish Crow

Grasshopper Sparrow

Gray Catbird

Gray Jay

Henslow’s Sparrow

Indigo Bunting

Lincoln’s Sparrow

Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow

Northern Cardinal

Northern Mockingbird

Orchard Oriole

Pine Siskin

Red-winged Blackbird

Rock Dove

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Savannah Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swainson's Thrush

Swamp Sparrow

Veery

Vesper Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Wood Thrush

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

Yellow-breasted Chat

Bark Prober Black-and-White Warbler

Black-backed Woodpecker

Brown Creeper

Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

Pine Warbler
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Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

192

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Bark Prober Black-and-White Warbler

Pine Warbler

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-headed Woodpecker

White-breasted Nuthatch

Ground Gleaner Hermit Thrush

Kentucky Warbler

Mourning Warbler

Northern Flicker

Ovenbird

Winter Wren

Worm-eating Warbler

Low Canopy Forager American Redstart

Black-billed Cuckoo

Black-capped Chickadee

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Blue-headed Vireo

Blue-winged Warbler

Boreal Chickadee

Canada Warbler

Carolina Chickadee

Carolina Wren

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Eastern Phoebe

Eastern Tufted Titmouse

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Golden-winged Warbler

Hooded Warbler

House Wren

Magnolia Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Palm Warbler

Prairie Warbler

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

White-eyed Vireo

Wilson’s Warbler

Yellow Warbler

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Compositional Nest Predator/ Brood 

Parasite

American Crow

Blue Jay

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Raven

European Starling

Fish Crow

Gray Jay

Resident American Crow

American Goldfinch

Black-backed Woodpecker

Black-capped Chickadee
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

193

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Resident (cont.) Blue Jay

Boreal Chickadee

Brown Creeper

Carolina Chickadee

Carolina Wren

Cedar Waxwing 

Common Raven

Downy Woodpecker

Eastern Tufted Titmouse

European Starling

Evening Grosbeak

Fish Crow

Gray Jay

Hairy Woodpecker

House Finch

House Sparrow

Mourning Dove

Northern Cardinal

Northern Mockingbird

Pileated Woodpecker

Pine Siskin

Purple Finch

Red Crossbill

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Rock Dove

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-winged Crossbill

Single Brooded American Crow

American Goldfinch 

Acadian Flycatcher

American Goldfinch 

Acadian Flycatcher

Alder Flycatcher

American Redstart

Baltimore Oriole 

Bank Swallow

Barn Swallow

Bay-breasted Warbler 

Black-capped Chickadee

Black-and-White Warbler

Blackburnian Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Black-throated Green Warbler 

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Blue-headed Vireo

Blue-winged Warbler

Bobolink 

Boreal Chickadee

Brown Creeper
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

194

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Single Brooded (cont.) Canada Warbler

Cape May Warbler

Carolina Chickadee

Cedar Waxwing

Cerulean Warbler

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Chimney Swift

Cliff Swallow 

Common Raven

Eastern Kingbird

Eastern Tufted Titmouse

Eastern Wood Pewee

Fish Crow

Golden-winged Warbler

Great Crested Flycatcher

Hooded Warbler

Kentucky Warbler

Least Flycatcher

Louisiana Waterthrush

Magnolia Warbler

Mourning Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Northern Parula

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

Northern Waterthrush

Olive-sided Flycatcher

Orchard Oriole

Ovenbird

Palm Warbler

Philadelphia Vireo 

Pine Siskin

Pine Warbler

Prairie Warbler

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-eyed Vireo

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Scarlet Tanager

Swainson's Thrush

Tennessee Warbler 

Tree Swallow

Veery

Warbling Vireo 

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-eyed Vireo

Willow Flycatcher

Wilson’s Warbler 

Winter Wren

Wood Thrush

Worm-eating Warbler

Yellow Warbler

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

Yellow-throated Vireo
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

195

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Exotic European Starling

House Finch

House Sparrow

Rock Dove

Structural Canopy Nester Acadian Flycatcher

American Crow

American Redstart

Bay-breasted Warbler

Baltimore Oriole

Blackburnian Warbler

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Blue-headed Vireo

Blue Jay

Black-throated Green Warbler

Cape May Warbler

Cedar Waxwing

Cerulean Warbler

Common Raven

Eastern Kingbird

Eastern Wood Pewee

Fish Crow

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Least Flycatcher

Mourning Dove

Northern Parula

Orchard Oriole

Pine Warbler

Purple Finch

Red Crossbill

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Scarlet Tanager

Warbling Vireo

White-winged Crossbill

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-throated Vireo

Shrub Nester Alder Flycatcher

American Goldfinch

American Robin

Black-billed Cuckoo

Blackpoll Warbler

Brown Thrasher

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

Common Yellowthroat

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Gray Catbird

Hooded Warbler

Indigo Bunting
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

196

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Shrub Nester (cont.) Magnolia Warbler

Northern Cardinal

Northern Mockingbird

Prairie Warbler

Red-eyed Vireo

Red-winged Blackbird

Swainson’s Thrush

White-eyed Vireo

Willow Flycatcher

Wood Thrush

Yellow-breasted Chat

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Yellow Warbler

Forest-ground Nester Black-and-white Warbler

Canada Warbler

Dark-eyed Junco

Eastern Towhee

Hermit Thrush

Kentucky Warbler

Louisiana Waterthrush

Mourning Warbler

Nashville Warbler

Northern Waterthrush

Ovenbird

Veery

Worm-eating Warbler

Wilson’s Warbler

White-throated Sparrow

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

Interior Forest 

Obligate

Acadian Flycatcher

American Redstart

Black-and-White Warbler

Black-backed Woodpecker

Blackburnian Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Black-throated Green Warbler

Blue-headed Vireo

Brown Creeper

Canada Warbler

Cerulean Warbler

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Hairy Woodpecker

Hermit Thrush

Hooded Warbler

Kentucky Warbler

Louisiana Waterthrush

Magnolia Warbler 
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

197

Integrity Element Response Guild Species

Interior Forest Northern Parula

Obligate (cont.) Northern Waterthrush

Olive-sided Flycatcher

Ovenbird

Pileated Woodpecker

Pine Warbler

Red Crossbill

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Scarlet Tanager

Swainson's Thrush

Veery

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-winged Crossbill

Winter Wren

Worm-eating Warbler

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 May 2007 Steve Faccio SOP used beginning with the 

2007 field season.

2.00 December 2008 Steve Faccio Added information about biotic 

integrity elements and guild 

categories

Removed integrity rank numbers 

in favor of “Good”, “Caution”, and 

“Significant

2.01 January 2009 Steve Faccio Added information about annual 

Fiscal Year and Data Summary

reports.

2.02 August 2009 Sarah Lupis Formatting, minor editorial changes.
SOP 9 - Data Reporting

Appendix S9.A. Species assignments in the 13 response guilds included in the biotic integrity scorecard. 

Species listed alphabetically within each guild (continued).

198

2.03 May 2012 Brian Mitchell 

and Steve 

Faccio

Assessment approach modified to 

only include Passeriformes 

(perching birds), Piciformes 

(woodpeckers), Cuculiformes 

(cuckoos), Apodiformes (swifts and 

hummingbirds), and Columbiformes 

(doves). Exception is two grassland 

obligate raptors included in the 

grassland assessment.

Eastern Phoebe added to low 

canopy forager guild and edge 

generalist guild.

American Kestrel and Northern 

Harrier added to grassland obligate 

guild.

Alder Flycatcher, American 

Woodcock, Black-billed Cuckoo, 

Black-capped Chickadee, Blue-gray 

Gnatcatcher, Blue Jay, Common 

Grackle, Great-crested Flycatcher,

Gray Catbird, Northern Bobwhite, 

Northern Cardinal, Red-Winged 

Blackbird, Ruby-throated 

Hummingbird, Tufted Titmouse, 

Willow Flycatcher, Yellow-billed 

Cuckoo, Yellow-Shafted Flicker, and 

Yellow-throated Vireo added to edge 

generalist guild

More closely follows 

O’Connell et al. (2000)

Review of guild 

membership

2.04 December 2012 Brian Mitchell 

and Steve 

Faccio

Added MIMA (BCR 30) to grassland 

assessment (MIMA Battle Road).

Edge Generalist abundance metric 

(Grassland EIA) altered (Good = 

<15 from <6 and SC = >30 from 

>10). Species richness metric 

altered (Good = <35% from <20% 

and SC = >70% from >50%).

PIF Grassland metric altered (Good 

>70% rather than >80%).

PIF Shrubland metric (Grassland 

EIA) thresholds in table revised to 

match thresholds in metric 

description.

Alder Flycatcher and Willow 

Flycatcher moved to Shrubdependent guild from Edge 

Generalist guild (Grassland EIA)

Abundance and species richness 

values based on SARA grassland 

data from 2006 updated using the 

latest guild and PIF priority 

information.

Park requested site

Edge species guild 

doubled in size; old 

abundance and species 

richness figures too low.

Initial metric too stringent 

(all species needed for 

good rating)

Error in table

Inappropriate 

assignment.

Update to reflect revised 

guilds.

2.05 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Update SOP numbers. New SOP.
199

SOP 10 - Deviations and Summary of Major Changes 

Northeast Temperate Network 

Version 1.03

Overview

This SOP documents:

• Modifications made to the study sites or point count stations.

• Known deviations from established methods. Deviations are situations where data were 

collected in a manner that is substantially different from the methods documented within the 

SOPs used during a particular field season.

• Major changes in the protocol. Major changes are fundamental shifts in the way data are

collected that cannot easily be rectified with earlier data. Major changes are not deviations, 

provided that the changes are documented in the SOPs. Ideally, any time there is a major 

change in methods the network will use both methods long enough to determine whether the 

results from the different methods are sufficiently correlated to allow old data to be corrected. 

In some cases (especially early in the use of the protocol), the small amount of data lost by 

the protocol change will not be worth the cost of overlapping methods.

Study Site or Point Modifications

1. MABI; Study Site 10 (East); Point 02: Elm used to previously mark the location of this point 

count station was found on 13 July 2011 to be dead and becoming unstable. Aluminum tag 

and blue flagging were removed from dead tree and moved 4 meters to the south to next 

nearest stable tree. The new tree (15” diameter white ash) was marked with the original 

aluminum tag from the first tree (#12) and the two fire-tacks and white bird study sign as per 

the protocol.

2. SARA; Study Site 25 (Bemis Heights) site discontinued after 2011; the site was too difficult 

and dangerous to survey. The site was replaced with Study Site 38 (Northwest).

3. MIMA; Study Site 39 (Battle Road) added after the request by the park to include a grassland 

site.

Protocol Deviations or Major Changes

1) In 2010: Data collection for Study Site 30 (ACAD; Schoodic Peninsula; 6 points) was 

coordinated by Brian Olsen at University of Maine. Dr. Olsen used students to conduct the 

breeding landbird counts. Review of the datasheets indicated that numerous deviations from 

the 2010 protocol occurred. 

a. Deviations that did likely did not affect the data: 
SOP 10 - Deviations and Summary of Major Changes

200

• Counts were conducted weekly May through July and were done in conjunction with 

other study sites Brian was researching at the time. 

• Photocopies of the field notebooks from this season have been filed with the data 

from other study sites, but not scanned. 

b. Deviations that likely affected the data: 

• Standardized datasheets (Field Cards and Coding Sheets) were not used by the 

observer. Evidence in the field notebook indicates that E, W, N, and S quadrats may 

have been used to help map breeding landbird detections.

• There was no evidence that breeding landbirds detected were assigned to distance 

categories. 

• There was no evidence that a countdown timer was used.

• There is no indication how flyovers or flocks were handled.

• Handwriting is barely legible making it difficult to decipher the data collected. 

2) From 2010 to 2013, only one QA/QC double-observer survey was conducted. Weather 

cancellations prevented the survey in three years. In 2014, a new QC method was initiated 

(recording point counts, see SOP 6 – Field Quality Control Recordings).

3) USGS Point Count Database is replaced with AKN Point Count Database in 2014, due to 

USGS inability to continue managing the database.

Reporting and Data Management Changes

1) In 2013, the USGS Point Count Database was retired and data entry beginning in 2014 was 

conducted through Point Blue’s online database, part of the Avian Knowledge Network. 

Changing to the new database necessitated conversion of the USGS data to the AKN format, 

and a thorough quality control review of the conversion was conducted in 2014. 

2) The reporting database (NETN Landbirds) was updated in late 2014 to pull data from the 

Point Blue database. Data reported in reports prior to 2013 was occasionally inaccurate 

because the USGS database did not record the number of individuals in a group or flock, so 

numbers of individuals and statistics derived from abundance (e.g., birds per point, Shannon 

diversity) were incorrect. In addition, data were not reported correctly when two individuals 

conducted point counts at the same time. These problems have been corrected.
SOP 10 - Deviations and Summary of Major Changes

201

Revision History Log

Version Date Revised By Changes Justification

1.00 July 2011 Adam 

Kozlowski

New SOP

Document data quality for Schoodic study 

site and moving of MABI 10.02 point.

1.01 December 

2012

Brian Mitchell Replacement of Bemis Heights study site at 

SARA, addition of Battle Road study site at 

MIMA, and documentation of missed QA/QC 

surveys.

Dangerous site

replaced at SARA, 

grassland site

added at MIMA.

1.02 April 2014 Brian Mitchell Management of online database shifts to 

AKN (Point Blue) from USGS.

Field QC not conducted in 3 of four years 

(2010-2013); switching to audio recording 

QC methods (SOP 6).

Change in database 

manager.

Change in QC 

approach.

1.03 January 2015 Brian Mitchell Added “Reporting and Data Management 

Changes”, items 1 and 2.

Document change 

in on-line database 

and correction of 

problems 

discovered in 

reporting database.

The Department of the Interior protects and manages the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provides scientific 

and other information about those resources; and honors its special responsibilities to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and 

affiliated Island Communities.

NPS 962/128348, April 2015
National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science

Natural Resource Stewardship and Science

1201 Oakridge Drive, Suite 150

Fort Collins, CO 80525

www.nature.nps.gov

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