1

• Developing

 Methods

 pg. 5

• Providing 

 Wildlife 

 Services 

 pg. 9

• Information 

 and 

 Communication

 pg. 11

• Valuing and

 Investing in

 People

 pg. 18

Summer 2004

Wildlife Services – Vision and Strategic Goals

The Wildlife Services (WS) program provides federal leadership in managing 

problems caused by wildlife. Four important goals have been identified as part of WS 

strategic plan to improve the coexistence of people and wildlife: Developing Methods, 

Providing Wildlife Services, Information and Communication, and Valuing and 

Investing in People. This NWRC Update contains short summaries of selected NWRC 

research activities supporting these goals and covers October 1, 2003 to May 31, 2004. 

A more comprehensive description of the NWRC’s research and related activities is 

covered in the Center’s annual “Innovative Solutions to Human-Wildlife Conflicts 

Accomplishments” report, which is available on the NWRC website (http://www.aphis.

usda.gov/ws/nwrc/pubs.)

Invasive Species Research

Invasive species have long posed numerous threats to the country’s natural 

environment, but only in recent years have these issues received the attention they 

deserve. One reason invasive species research is now recognized as an important, even 

vital, part of resource management nationwide is the issuance of Executive Order 13112 

by President Clinton on February 3, 1999. The Order authorized the National Invasive 

Species Council to “prevent the introduction of invasive species and provide for their 

control and to minimize the economic, ecological, and human health impacts that invasive 

species cause.” However, NWRC scientists have been involved in invasive species 

research and management for many years. This article briefly summarizes a few of the 

Center’s efforts in this important area of protecting America’s natural resources.

Seabird colonies once flourished on Kiska Island in the Aleutians. Now, hundreds 

of thousands of auklet nestlings hatch — only to become meals for hordes of voracious 

Norway rats. To help improve survival of auklets and other seabirds, NWRC recently 

cooperated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in a study to develop 

methods for eradicating the rats from the island. If rodent control efforts can be sustained, 

auklets may once again thrive on the island.
2

The rodent work on Kiska Island is only one of several invasive species efforts in 

which NWRC is involved. Invasive mammal problems are so varied and extensive that the 

NWRC has committed to a new research project, headed by Dr. Gary Witmer. The project 

will focus on mid-size mammals such as rats, nutria, and mongoose.

“Some of the research will be conducted on islands,” notes Witmer, “but other 

research will be conducted at mainland locations including the NWRC headquarters 

research facilities. For example, there’s been a black rat outbreak in Arizona. Black rats 

normally appear coastally or on islands, but these have invaded citrus orchards.”

“Invasive species issues are receiving a lot of public attention and funding,” says 

Witmer. “For instance, we are about to break ground on an invasive species research 

building (ISRB).” Construction on the new ISRB will begin in early 2005 and be finished 

in mid-2006. 

“The ability to generate tropical climates in animal rooms is a unique feature of 

the new ISRB,” says Bill Dusenberry, NWRC facilities planner. “The current NWRC 

Animal Research Building is more suited to temperate climate studies. Another nice 

feature of the new ISRB is that whatever climate may be used in one room shouldn’t 

affect the climate in the adjoining room.” While the facility will have two large simulated 

natural environment chambers, a variety of room sizes will give researchers more design 

flexibility. Additionally, there will be an X-ray suite for research/animal care. Total size of 

the building will be about 25,000 sq ft.

The new building will enhance NWRC’s ability to research a variety of approaches 

to invasive species problems including developing detection and monitoring systems 

and ship-response plans to prevent invasive species from becoming established in new 

locations, controlling established invasive species as soon as possible after introduction, 

capturing animals through the use of better trapping systems, and employing integrated 

management strategies to lower populations of species that cannot be eradicated.

One of the most important ongoing NWRC invasive species research projects 

involves the brown treesnake on Guam. NWRC research on brown treesnakes began in 

1993 with funding from the U.S. Department of Interior, but since has been primarily 

funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) Legacy Resource Management Program, 

which was established in 1990 to fund the DoD’s efforts to enhance its stewardship on 

military lands. 

One of the 

most important 

ongoing NWRC 

invasive species 

research 

projects 

involves 

the brown 

treesnake on 

Guam.
3

The treesnake, native to Australia, the Solomon Islands, New Guinea and Indonesia, 

was most likely accidentally introduced to Guam through post World War II cargo 

shipments. It has since decimated most of the island’s native terrestrial vertebrate 

populations. Management of the brown treesnake is aimed at preventing its dispersal 

through cargo, containing incoming snakes at destinations, reducing the population on 

Guam, reclaiming areas on Guam for reintroduction of native wildlife, and protecting 

power stations and other sensitive locations from intrusion.

NWRC brown treesnake research has focused on developing fumigants, toxicants, 

reproductive inhibitors, lures and attractants, and repellents to control these invasive 

snakes. Early fumigant work centered on methyl bromide. When methyl bromide was 

found to be an ozone reducer, attention shifted to sulfuryl chloride and magnesium 

phosphide. Data on these two fumigants are ready to submit to EPA for registration for 

use on treesnakes. 

Another priority in brown treesnake work has been development of an oral toxicant. 

Initial work focused on pyrethrums (plant compounds used for controlling insects). 

Though some efficacy was achieved, a better toxicant was needed. Dr. Peter J. Savarie, 

perusing pet-trade literature, found warnings against feeding anti-inflammatories to 

snakes and set about investigating available compounds for their toxicity. He and other 

NWRC scientists showed that acetaminophen was highly toxic to brown treesnakes, even 

at low levels. Also, brown treesnakes, unlike many other snakes, will eat dead mice. Thus 

a bait consisting of mice, with acetaminophen inserted, was developed and registered 

with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as a toxicant delivery system. 

Though use of mice baits is effective, work continues to develop an attractant 

to replace the dead mice as baits, as well as the live mice lures used in traps. In the 

attractants work, NWRC scientists have characterized the odor of dead and decomposing 

mice but have not been able to replace dead mice with a similar-smelling compound 

matrix that is an equally effective attractant as live mice.
4

Repellents, like toxicants and attractants, have been investigated by NWRC scientists. 

They are important for driving snakes from areas where they can easily be concealed, 

such as cargo areas. “When Wildlife Services began working with snake-detecting dogs, 

if the dog indicated there was a snake in the cargo, there would be no easy way to get it 

out,” explains Dr. Kathleen Fagerstone, NWRC Research Program Manager. In a search 

for a repellent, Dr. Larry Clark’s research led to the use of natural oils (cinnamon oil, 

clove oil, and eugenol) for this purpose. When fumes from one of these oils are blown 

into cargo areas, snakes exit hiding places and can then be captured.

On another front, Dr. Tom Mathies is studying snake reproduction in hopes of 

developing reproductive inhibitors. An initial hurdle to overcome was getting the snakes 

to reproduce in captivity. Dr. Mathies successfully established a captive breeding program 

at NWRC headquarters and is now trying to understand reproductive hormones and 

breeding cycles. So far, studies have shown that, unlike females, males are reproductively 

active throughout the year in Guam and are the best candidates for sterilization.

NWRC scientists are researching solutions not only to brown treesnake problems, 

but also to other species of immediate concern to WS, including coqui frogs (invasive 

Caribbean tree frogs that are now spreading in Hawaii), nutria (aquatic rodents expanding 

in Louisiana and Maryland and causing extensive damage to aquatic resources and 

wetland vegetation), mongooses (introduced into Hawaii to control rats, and now 

wreaking ecological havoc), monk parakeets (established in Florida and a few other 

places with resultant agricultural damage and power outages), and feral swine (a very 

large problem throughout the southern states and Hawaii). Feral swine not only damage 

the environment, but also carry some very serious diseases such as pseudorabies and 

swine brucellosis that haven’t been eliminated from livestock populations. 

Scientific work conducted at NWRC is integral to overall invasive species 

management in the United States. “The Invasive Species Council has developed a 

national plan, with research being an important component,” said Witmer. “This thing 

is just kind of kicking into gear now with agencies trying to figure out responses, roles, 

and where the resources will come from.” Much of the NWRC’s invasive species work 

will be in collaboration with other federal agencies such as USFWS, the U.S. Geological 

Survey (USGS), and the National Park Service; state agencies; and tribal and territorial 

governments.

The expansion of invasive species work at NWRC ensures that ever-increasing 

scientific expertise will be applied to development of practical methods to resolve 

problems caused by nonnative wildlife. By reducing invasive species threats, the 

WS program and NWRC continue in their mission to protect American agriculture, 

environmental resources, human health and safety, and threatened and endangered 

species.

The expansion 

of invasive 

species work 

at NWRC 

ensures that 

ever-increasing 

scientific 

expertise will 

be applied to 

development 

of practical 

methods 

to resolve 

problems 

caused by 

nonnative 

wildlife.
5

DEVELOPING METHODS

Evaluation of Coyote Capture Methods – The need for alternative predator capture 

techniques is increasing, as is the need for comparative data evaluating coyote capture 

methods. In an initial evaluation, biologists at the NWRC Logan, Utah field station 

surveyed wildlife managers for information on cage-trapping. Using these data, a field 

study was conducted of 4 coyote capture systems. The SoftCatch®, Collarum®, Wildlife 

Services-Turman (WS-T), and Tomahawk® systems were tested for capturing coyotes 

in Arizona and South Texas during 2001 and 2002. Field work was then conducted to 

determine capture efficiency and selectivity, and whole body necropsies were performed 

to identify trap-related injuries. Surveys indicated that coyotes were most often captured 

in large (> 1.6 m length) cage traps baited with meat or carcasses. In this field evaluation, 

the capture rate (percentage of coyote captures per capture opportunity) was 0% for the 

Tomahawk cage-trap, 87% for the Collarum, 88% for the WS-T throw arm, and 100% for 

the SoftCatch. Cage-traps were the least selective, capturing 34 non-coyote animals, and 

Collarums were the most selective, capturing no non-coyote animals. The WS-T and Soft 

Catch devices showed intermediate selectivity of 50% and 69%, respectively. All devices 

showed low injury scores relative to jawed devices in previous studies; 92%, 57%, and 

92% of coyotes captured in the Collarum, WS-T, and Soft Catch showed no indication of 

injury, respectively.

Eradication of Coqui Frogs in Hawaii – Scientists from the NWRC, Hilo field 

station and WS Operations teamed up with personnel from the Hawaii Department 

of Agriculture, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Kauai Invasive 

Species Committee, University of Hawaii Agricultural Extension Service, private forest 

management consultants, and private landowners in an attempt to eradicate the known 

population of the coqui frogs from the island of Kauai. Frog call counts were conducted 

for a week prior to the eradication attempt and the population was estimated at about 

80 males (only males call). The frog calls were also used to determine the acreage of 

the infestation and delineate treatment boundaries. In June of 2003, 14 people from 

various agencies gathered in a gulch in Lawai to treat approximately 3 acres inhabited 

by the coqui with a citric acid solution. Using high-pressure spray guns, approximately 

1,200 gallons of citric acid solution were sprayed, drenching all the vegetation on the 

forest floor and in the lower canopy. Frog call counts conducted during the following 

week revealed only 5 or 6 males remained in the gulch. Spot treatment occurred in 

the following months to control the few remaining frogs. The impacts of citric acid 

on nontarget species was also evaluated. Invertebrate populations declined slightly 

immediately following the application but returned to pretreatment levels within 2 weeks. 

Because it is not known if the treatment reached all of the females or killed frog egg 

masses, state agencies and the island Invasive Species Committee will conduct repeat 

spot treatments periodically for a year to ensure complete eradication.

The need for 

alternative 

predator 

capture 

techniques is 

increasing, as 

is the need for 

comparative 

data evaluating 

coyote capture 

methods.
6

Registered Fungicide and Insecticides Evaluated as Blackbird Repellents – In August 2003, NWRC 

scientists in Fort Collins, CO, evaluated the bird repellency of GWN-4770, a fungicide registered by the U.S 

EPA for rice. Preference (or “choice”) testing among individual red-winged blackbirds indicated that 1% 

GWN-4770 reduced rice consumption by blackbirds more than 90% relative to a control group. In no-choice 

tests, consumption of rice treated with 1% and 2% GWN-4770 was reduced 37% and 78%, respectively. 

A small-scale field test of GWN-4770 was conducted in February 2004 near Gueydan, LA. Blackbird 

consumption of rice treated with 2% GWN-4470 was less than that within control plots. In cooperation with 

researchers at Southeast Missouri State University, 1% GWN-4770 was also evaluated as a seed treatment to 

reduce blackbird damage to drill-planted rice in April 2004. Compared to treated sites, blackbirds damaged 

over 40% of the rice seedlings on untreated sites. During September and October 2003, NWRC scientists 

at the Bismarck, ND, field station tested 5 insecticide formulations (Asana® XL, Baythroid® 2, Lorsban®

-4E, Scout X-Tra®, and Warrior® T) currently registered for use on ripening sunflower. Birds’ consumption 

of Lorsban®-4E -treated sunflower seeds was reduced 82% compared to the control birds, whereas the other 

insecticides reduced consumption 0 to 26%. In a second trial, Warrior insecticide was tested at full-label rate 

and Losrban was tested at varying concentrations. Scientists found that feeding was reduced at least 40% 

(compared to control birds) for all test groups. Lorsban-4E showed the best potential as a bird repellent in 

cage trials. Additional research is needed on the efficacy and environmental effects of Lorsban and other 

candidates before pursuing expansion of Lorsban-4E registration label as a bird repellent.

Commercial Manufacture of New Tools – NWRC scientists are working with a marketing group from 

Cheyenne, WY, to commercially produce a new audiovisual frightening device, a new roof rat bait delivery 

device, and a new electronic trap-check monitoring device. The frightening device is based on a system 

developed at the NWRC. The company is in the final stages of producing its first batch of the frightening 

devices for trial and use by NWRC scientists and WS field personnel. The system incorporates multisensory 

stimuli that repel both mammals and birds. The marketing group is working with NWRC Fort Collins, CO, 

and Hilo, HI, personnel on developing and manufacturing the roof rat bait system, and the prototype devices 

will be tested soon. Finally, progress was made in the development of trap monitors and the basic design 

features of prototype units designed to fit inside trap stakes.

Vulture Management Methods Research Review – On February 18, 2004, NWRC scientists from 

the Fort Collins, CO, headquarters, and the Sandusky, OH, and Gainesville, FL, field stations met in 

Christiansburg, VA, with biologists from Virginia WS to review progress on the NWRC Research Project, 

“Develop New or Improved Vulture Management Methods to Reduce Damage and Livestock Predation and 

Disperse Nuisance Roosts.” In addition, meeting participants visited nearby sites where NWRC researchers 

and WS biologists had trapped and tagged 200 black vultures (and equipped 20 with radio transmitters) 

to document black vulture use of an urban roost in Radford, VA, and black vulture activities on livestock 

ranches within the New River Valley. The findings of this study will help determine if dispersal of communal 

roosts can reduce black vulture use of nearby livestock operations.
7

Alpha-chloralose Field Trials on Starlings – Alpha-chloralose (AC) is a capture 

agent being investigated as an alternative control tool for managing starlings at livestock 

farms. Starlings feed on silage and protein supplements intended as livestock feed; 

defecate on structures, equipment, and animals; and may act as livestock disease vectors 

as they move among farms. In February, 2004, NWRC biologists, in cooperation with 

New York WS personnel, conducted field trials using AC to capture European starlings at 

dairy farms in upstate New York. Two farms with starling populations ranging from 1,000 

to 5,000 birds were baited with AC. Approximately 30% of possible baited birds were 

captured. AC-affected birds were found up to 1 km from the bait site, but were found in 

diminishing frequency with increasing distance from the bait site. Mortality due to AC 

overdose was less than 10% of the captured birds. Snow cover was essential for locating 

affected birds as they often attempted to hide when AC began to impair their mobility. 

This operational scale experiment will be repeated and refined based on the results from 

these initial trials.

Western Redcedar Analysis For Deer Browse Deterrent – An NWRC scientist, 

working in cooperation with the British Columbia Ministry of Forests, completed 

analyses in late April 2004, of western redcedar foliage to identify whether increased 

levels of foliar terpenes deter deer browsing when trees with low levels of terpenes are 

also available for browsing. Samples were collected from trees in an operational progeny 

test plot that had undergone substantial browsing. Of the 18 significantly browsed 

trees (out of 82 trees sampled), 12 had extremely low levels of foliar terpenes. Of the 

6 browsed trees with higher terpene concentrations, 4 also exhibited high carbohydrate 

levels in the foliage. The data further demonstrate that terpene levels are under genetic 

control while carbohydrates are not. These data suggest that genetic selection could be 

used in an integrated program to protect redcedar from deer browsing.

DRC-1339 as a Starling Control Method in Feedlots and Dairies – WS recently 

re-registered DRC-1339 in New York for use in feedlots and dairies and in February 

2004, began using this avicide to reduce troublesome starling populations. NWRC 

scientists from the Bismarck, ND, and Sandusky, OH, field stations visited dairy farmers 

in upstate New York who are concerned about sanitation and disease (both in the barns 

and milk) and the impact on milk production from starlings eating high-quality dairy 

supplements. After pre-baiting with nontoxic bait, DRC-1339 was used at 3 dairy farms 

that had starling populations ranging from <1,000 to 8,000 birds. Starling populations 

declined by 40-90% the day following application. Baiting at 1 site seemed to benefit 

surrounding farmers. For example, personnel at a buffalo ranch about 5 miles north of 

a bait site retrieved numerous dead starlings the day after the baiting took place and 

subsequently reported fewer starlings after the baiting.
8

Evaluating Management Strategies for Reducing Cormorant Damage to Natural 

Resources – In fall 2003, WS was granted expanded authority under new migratory bird 

management regulations to manage double-crested cormorants that impact aquaculture 

and natural resources. To ensure that wildlife managers understand the implications of 

different management strategies, NWRC biologists are working with the WS operational 

program to determine the behavioral responses of cormorants to different management 

activities. Biologists from the NWRC Starkville, MS, field station continued work 

initiated in 2003 in New York to evaluate cormorant responses to a myriad of nonlethal 

dispersal techniques aimed at discouraging these birds from using Oneida Lake before 

and after breeding, thereby reducing impacts to recreational fisheries. NWRC biologists, 

WS Operations biologists, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources biologists 

initiated a similar study in the Les Cheneaux region of Michigan in 2004 in response 

to localized depletions of harvest-sized yellow perch in the region. These biologists 

are collecting information on perch populations, cormorant habitat use, and cormorant 

reproductive parameters in specific bodies of water where perch problems have persisted. 

Information on these parameters will be combined with investigations of cormorant diet 

patterns and cormorant behavioral response to specific management strategies including 

egg-oiling, nest destruction, and limited control of adult cormorants. These studies 

will help determine the role of cormorants in perch depletion and whether cormorant 

management can effectively reverse these trends. 

In fall 2003, WS 

was granted 

expanded 

authority 

to manage 

double-crested 

cormorants 

that impact 

aquaculture 

and natural 

resources.
9

After only 

one year of 

swine removal, 

damage was 

down to 7% 

with a value 

between 

$235,000 and 

$767,000, for a 

return between 

$1.0 and $3.3 

million.

PROVIDING WILDLIFE SERVICES

FAA Interagency Agreement Signed – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 

signed a new 5-year Interagency Agreement (IA) with WS in October, 2003, for fiscal 

years 2004-2008. Proposed research to be carried out under the new IA by the NWRC 

Sandusky, OH, field station relates to wildlife habitat management and land-use, wildlife 

damage management techniques, and avian sensory perception. This is the latest in a 

series of USDA-FAA IAs that started in 1991 and will allow NWRC to continue to play 

an important role in reducing the adverse impacts of wildlife to the aviation industry.

Vulture Assessment at Phoenix International Airport – During October 21-26, 

2003, biologists from the NWRC Gainesville, FL, field station and the WS Arizona 

State Office assessed vulture hazards at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and 

Gila Bend Auxiliary Air Force Base (GBAFB). Both sites regularly receive complaints 

of vultures in aircraft take-off and approach zones. An F-16 at GBAFB collided with a 

vulture in June and was lost. Recommendations for developing management strategies to 

reduce hazards included quantifying seasonal use of the area by vultures and identifying 

key roost sites that pose hazards to aircraft.

Bird Damage to Corn Seedlings in Hawaii – NWRC and other WS biologists 

traveled to Kauai in November 2003, to assess bird damage to corn seedlings in 

Waimea, west Kauai. Pioneer Seed, a subsidiary of DuPont, leases about 150-200 

acres of agricultural land on the island and spends about $100,000 each year to prevent 

bird damage to its corn, soybean, and sunflower fields. Pheasants, francolins, doves, 

pigeons and cardinals are the primary depredating species. Most damage occurs when 

the plants are newly sprouted. Pioneer hires “bird watchers” to sit in the fields and haze 

the birds. The WS biologists provided Pioneer with suggestions for management of bird 

populations in the area.

Population Demographics Model for Common Ravens – Scientists from the 

NWRC Sandusky, OH, field station, the NWRC in Fort Collins, CO, and the Nevada WS 

State Director met with biologists from the USGS Western Ecological Center (WERC) 

in San Diego, CA, on January 20, 2004 to discuss the development of a population 

demographics model for common ravens in the Mojave Desert. This model will help 

to evaluate the impact of WS management activities and to strengthen WS NEPA 

documentation. The model will allow scientists to evaluate the contribution of various 

parameters (e.g., age-specific annual survival) to raven population growth in the Mojave 

and the West, to identify data needs in understanding the species’ ecology relative to 

population growth, and to assess effects of time- and site-specific lethal control of ravens 

to protect desert tortoise and sage grouse, as well as to reduce damage to agricultural and 

livestock stakeholders.

East Mississippi Agriculture Expo Presentation – A biologist from the NWRC 

Starkville, MS, field station attended the East Mississippi Ag Expo on January 23, 

2004, along with Mississippi and Alabama WS personnel. More than 200 people were 
10

in attendance, including the Mississippi governor and the head of the state legislature’s appropriations 

committee. The NWRC scientist delivered a presentation addressing the role of research in reducing 

avian impacts to catfish aquaculture. The WS district supervisor presented updates on a recently amended 

depredation order for farmers participating in lethal control of double-crested cormorants to reduce 

aquaculture depredation. The event was organized by the Mississippi State University Cooperative Extension 

Service and supported by 33 sponsors and exhibitors. 

Estimating the Efficacy and Benefit-Cost Ratios of Feral Swine Removal from the Last Remnant 

of a Basin Marsh System in Florida – Savannas Preserve State Park (SPSP) in Florida protects the last 

remnants of a basin marsh system that formerly extended for 200 miles along Florida’s southeast coast. The 

rest has been lost to development. This park also supports a myriad of threatened and endangered plant and 

animal species. The exposed portions of the marsh had been severely damaged by feral swine. In January 

2003, an NWRC biometrician worked in conjunction with WS Operations and the Florida Department of 

Environmental Protection to estimate the amount and value of the swine damage per hectare to the exposed 

portions of the basin marsh prior to implementation of swine removal. In January 2004, after 1 year of swine 

removal, the amount and value of damaged marsh were again estimated. Prior to swine removal, 19% of the 

exposed portions of the basin marsh had been damaged by swine and the value of the damage to the sampled 

portion alone was between $1.2 and $4.0 million. After only a year of swine removal, damage was down to 

7% with a value between $235,000 and $767,000, for a return between $1.0 and $3.3 million. The cost of the 

portion of the control contract directed at the basin marsh was $2,100, resulting in a large benefit-cost ratio 

between 480 and 1562.

Monkeypox Outbreak in Ghana Investigated – In March 2004, a scientist from the NWRC was invited 

to join a team of scientists and epidemiologists (5 from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

[CDC]) to investigate monkeypox virus in Ghana. The 2003 outbreak of monkeypox virus in the United 

States is believed to have started following importation of exotic pet species from Ghana. The joint CDC/

USDA investigation involved evaluation of human disease, the search for animal reservoirs, and expansion 

of laboratory capacity to support in-country disease surveillance. The team worked closely with the Ghana 

Ministry of Health, the University of Ghana Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the U.S. 

National Zoo during the 3-week investigation.

Brown-headed Cowbirds Trapped to Protect Kirtland’s Warblers – Biologists at the NWRC 

Sandusky, OH, field station captured 400 brown-headed cowbirds in April 2004 to aid in a cooperative 

recovery effort for the endangered Kirtland’s warbler in Michigan. The trapped cowbirds were used by 

the USFWS as decoys to lure other cowbirds to traps in areas where warblers nest, thereby reducing the 

incidence of nest parasitism during May and June. Since 1972, cowbird parasitism has been reduced from 

over 50% to less than 5% of nests, and the nesting population of warblers has increased from about 180 to 

over 900 pairs. NWRC has provided the USFWS with cowbirds for this endangered species project annually 

since 1980. Other cooperating agencies include the Michigan Audubon Society, the Michigan Department of 

Natural Resources, and the U.S. Forest Service.

GIS Use in Rabies Research – NWRC scientists participated in a joint planning session on May 25, 

2004, with the WS’ Rabies Coordinator and Rabies Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist. Since 

1922, there have been more than 10,000 positive cases of skunk-variant rabies in California, with over 1,200 

livestock and 20,000 pet cases of rabies. GIS plots revealed 3 traditional “hot spots” of skunk-variant rabies 

in the state (i.e., Contra Costa-Alameda, San Luis Obispo-Santa Barbara, and Butte-Yuba-Yucca counties). 

Strategies were devised to estimate disease impacts and oral rabies vaccine (ORV) costs. Ultimately, scenario 

and forecast analyses will be provided as decision-making tools for evaluating the potential savings likely to 

accrue from a skunk-variant rabies ORV program.
11

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION

4th European Vertebrate Pest Management Conference – Several NWRC scientists from Fort Collins, 

CO, and Gainesville, FL, attended the 4th European Vertebrate Pest Management Conference (EVPMC) 

held in Parma, Italy, September 9-13, 2003. NWRC scientists presented papers on repellents for deer and 

herbivores, protection of endangered shorebirds from predators, reduction of invasive monk parakeet damage 

to electric utilities, and the economics of oral rabies vaccination for wildlife. The EVPMC is an international 

biennial conference that focuses on pest issues across Europe. More than 140 researchers attended this year’s 

conference including scientists from the United States, New Zealand, and Australia. Key topics covered at the 

conference involved rock dove populations in urban settings, nutria damage to Italy’s crops and waterways, 

and rodent-borne diseases. 

Annual Meeting of the Great Lakes Area Working Group on Colonial Waterbirds – Biologists from 

the NWRC Starkville, MS, field station participated in the annual meeting of the Great Lakes Area Working 

Group on Colonial Waterbirds held at Garden Island near Kingston, Ontario, October 7-8, 2003. The mission 

of the working group is to foster collaboration and discuss ongoing research and research needs for colonial 

waterbirds in the Great Lakes. NWRC biologists presented updates on studies related to migratory and 

regional movements of double-crested cormorants captured in the southeastern United States, population 

dynamics of interior nesting double-crested cormorants, and double-crested cormorant response to hazing 

on Oneida Lake, NY. Twenty-five other biologists, representing New York and Vermont state agencies and 

universities, the Canadian government also participated in this meeting.

Puerto Rican Parrot Interagency Policy Committee Meeting – On October 8, 2003, an NWRC 

scientist from Fort Collins, CO, the WS Florida State Director, and a collaborating scientist from the 

University of California-Davis attended the Puerto Rican Parrot Interagency Policy Committee Meeting in 

San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rican parrot is one of the world’s rarest birds, and the scientists have been 

collaborating to monitor populations of, and protect the parrots from, 3 species of invasive mammals. Results 

from indexing populations of rats, mongooses and cats in parrot nesting and foraging habitat were presented 

to the committee. Predation on parrots by rats and mongooses has been reported during the breeding season 

in recent years. Rat populations were found to be among the highest reported in the world. Mongooses were 

also found to be exceptionally abundant, and feral cats were common. Also presented were results of a rat 

control trial in which a grid of 18 diphacinone bait stations around a parrot nesting tree produced 100% 

mortality of radio-collared rats. Finally, results were presented on an economic analysis conducted at NWRC 

that showed that only 1 parrot needs to be saved from predation every 11.8 years for a predator control 

program to be cost-effective. Based on the information presented, the committee may consider a role for 

predator control in parrot management. 

Oregon Wildlife Commission Meeting – An NWRC Olympia, WA, scientist attended the Oregon 

Wildlife Commission meeting in Roseburg, OR, on October 10, 2003. The primary objective of the meeting 

was to address concerns regarding trap check intervals for predators. More than 50 people, representing 

diverse stakeholder groups including the timber and livestock industries and animal rights advocates, 

attended the meeting to hear about, and give testimony on, Oregon’s predator trapping requirements. The 

NWRC scientist was recognized by the Commission as the expert in attendance, and was asked to provide 

extensive testimony on the biology and ecology of mountain beavers and coyotes. 
12

Invasive Coqui Frogs on Hawaiian Television – Researchers from the NWRC Hilo, HI, field station 

participated in a television filming of “Living in Paradise-Big Island Minute Live” on December 13, 2003. 

The public community-access cable TV program featured a question and answer segment on invasive coqui 

frogs, which are spreading rapidly through many neighborhoods in Hawaii. The researchers answered 

questions posed by students from a local high school on the current status of the frogs on the island of 

Hawaii, including the frogs’ biology, habitat, accidental introductions to Hawaii, reproductive behavior, and 

ecological and economic impacts. The researchers also discussed control strategies available to the public 

to prevent frogs from spreading to other areas. The program aired locally every night during the month of 

January, 2004.

Washington State Forest Health Program – On December 12, 2003, an NWRC scientist from the 

Olympia, WA, field station participated in the “Current Topics in Forest Health” program sponsored by the 

University of Idaho Extension and held in Coeur d’Alene, ID. The program is an annual update for forest 

owners, loggers, and natural resource professionals on the latest research to improve forest growth and 

health. The program was attended by approximately 90 natural resource managers. The NWRC scientist 

covered 2 topics, “Deer Damage in Forestry: Management Alternatives” and “Bear Damage to Young 

Conifers: Description and Management.” Resource managers were told how to develop a program combining 

feasible tools and strategies to reduce animal damage. Pertinent recent research activities were also 

presented.

Wildlife Aviation Research Review – Biologists from the NWRC Sandusky, OH, field station met 

with FAA representatives on January 21, 2004, to review NWRC research conducted under an USDA-FAA 

Interagency Agreement and to discuss future research plans. The FAA Wildlife Strike Database, developed 

and maintained by personnel at the NWRC Sandusky, OH, field station, now includes U.S. Air Force wildlife 

strikes that occur at joint-use (military and civilian) airbases, bringing the current total of entries to more 

than 56,000 strikes since 1991. Center biologists also reviewed studies of ElectroBraidTM fencing to exclude 

deer from selected areas; the use of plant growth regulators to maintain vegetation at a desired height; the 

use of an almost pure (> 90% cover) fescue for feeding by Canada geese; and the use of planted vegetation 

plots at selected airports in the Pacific Northwest by insects, birds, and small mammals. NWRC’s future 

wildlife aviation research likely will focus on determining the features of trash-transfer facilities that attract 

birds, evaluating ElectroBraidTM fencing to exclude deer from large exclosures, comparing efficacies of avian 

survey methods at airports, and identifying features of water detention facilities that attract birds.

Ohio Fish and Wildlife Conference Presentations – Biologists from the NWRC Sandusky, OH, field 

station gave seminars on February 6, 2004, at the 44th Ohio Fish and Wildlife Conference. The conference 

was sponsored by the Ohio Fish and Wildlife Management Association, the Ohio Chapter of The Wildlife 

Society, and the Ohio Chapter of the American Fisheries Societies. The annual conference provides a forum 

for current research on issues related to Ohio’s fish and wildlife resources. The NWRC biologists presented 

seminars entitled, “Tall Fescue and Wildlife: Good, Bad, or Indifferent?” and “Exploiting Natural Signals 

to Enhance Avian Visual Repellents and Alerts.” In addition to The Ohio State University students and 

faculty, the conference was also attended by representatives from Case Western University, Cleveland State 

University, Hocking Technical Institute, Ohio WS, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the USGS, 

and the Ohio Nature Conservancy. 
13

Tres Rios, Arizona Nature Festival – An NWRC scientist participated in the Tres 

Rios Nature Festival held March 13 and 14, 2004, at the Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 

near Phoenix, AZ. The festival was the first of a planned annual event to provide wildlife 

educational opportunities for area residents. NWRC collaborated with Arizona WS to 

present information on the North American beaver. A taxidermic mount of a beaver, 

beaver skulls, footprints and extracted teeth, gnawed tree sections, stems treated with 

textural repellent, and telemetry equipment, were all available for hands-on experiences. 

NWRC and WS personnel discussed beaver biology and ecology, along with management 

approaches and ongoing research. A poster provided written descriptions and pictures 

depicting the animals, and the costs and benefits derived from their behaviors. Interested 

participants were given information on WS and the NWRC, and children were offered 

copies of the “Living with Wildlife” handout on beavers. Several teachers took copies of 

the beaver handout for use in their classrooms. 

21st Annual Vertebrate Pest Conference – Twenty-six researchers from NWRC 

presented talks at the 21st annual Vertebrate Pest Conference, held in Visalia, CA, on 

March 1-4, 2004. The meeting, to discuss issues and research in the area of wildlife 

damage management, was attended by wildlife professionals from the United States and 

15 other countries. After the meeting, the NWRC hosted 2 visitors from the Cooperative 

Research Centre in Australia and 1 visitor from the Central Science Laboratory. Both 

groups plan to cooperate with the NWRC in future research efforts.

Chemosensory Symposium – On March 22-23, 2004, NWRC scientists from 

Fort Collins, CO, and Sandusky, OH, traveled to Philadelphia, PA, to attend the annual 

“Chemosensory Challenges for Industry” symposium held by the Monell Chemical 

Senses Center (where another NWRC scientist is based). Presentations covered a variety 

of topics, including several of practical interest to WS. These relevant topics included 

chemical methods to suppress bitterness and astringency, strategies to suppress malodors 

and to prevent ammonia production in urine, and fragrance chemicals (such as citrus oil) 

to mask human scent. Other meeting participants included more than 100 scientists and 

science managers sent by Monell industrial sponsors.

National Invasive Species Council Meeting – On March 12, 2004, a scientist 

from the NWRC Hilo, HI, field station presented a seminar to members of the National 

Invasive Species Council and the Invasive Species Advisory Committee. The seminar 

was on current research and the role of the field station within the NWRC. The National 

Invasive Species Council is an inter-departmental council that coordinates federal 

invasive species activities. Council members include the U.S. Secretaries of the Interior, 

Agriculture, Commerce, State, Defense, Treasury, Transportation, and Health and 

Human Services, as well as the Administrators of the USEPA and the U.S. Agency 

for International Development. The Council actively works with the Invasive Species 

Advisory Committee, established to advise the federal government on invasive species 

issues and represent stakeholders. 

The FAA 

Wildlife 

Strike 

Database, 

developed and 

maintained by 

personnel at the 

NWRC 

Ohio 

field station, now 

includes 

U.S. Air 

Force 

wildlife 

strikes 

that 

occur at 

joint use 

(military and 

civilian) 

airbases, 

bringing 

the current total 

of entries 

to more 

than 

56,000 

strikes 

since 

1991.
14

NWRC biologists also attended the first public meeting of the Hawaii Invasive 

Species Council (HISC), a new council consisting of members appointed by the governor 

to develop policies on invasive species in Hawaii. While the Coordinating Group on 

Alien Pest Species (CGAPS) has addressed invasive species issues in Hawaii for many 

years and carried out control measures, HISC provides input on federal invasive species 

legislation and policies. Members of the council include representatives of the Hawaii 

Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Hawaii Departments of Agriculture, 

Transportation and Health, and the University of Hawaii, among others. One of the first 

legislative actions taken was to provide groups such as CGAPS with power to control 

invasive species on private property and to protect property owners from liability. Issues 

concerning the control of established invasive species and the prevention of entry of new 

invasives will be addressed in future working groups. 

Rodent Control in Hawaiian Sugarcane Training Session – A researcher from the 

NWRC Hilo, HI, field station presented a training session on rodent control in sugarcane 

at the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar plantation on the island of Maui on April 6-7, 

2004. The scientist discussed the biology and ecology of rodents in sugarcane, damage 

characteristics, sampling techniques, and current control strategies. The various training 

sessions, sponsored by the Hawaii Agricultural Research Center (formerly Hawaiian 

Sugar Planters Association) and the sugarcane plantations, provided field supervisors and 

crew chiefs with up-to-date information on such things as developing sugarcane varieties, 

cultivation improvements, pest control, harvesting, milling, and other aspects of growing 

sugarcane in Hawaii. Future sessions by NWRC staff on rodent damage assessment 

surveys and controlled field baiting trials have been requested by the plantation managers.

Wildlife Damage Management Class Visit – On April 1-2, 2004, 10 students from a 

wildlife damage management class at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UN-L) visited 

the NWRC in Fort Collins, CO. The NWRC Director welcomed the class and discussed 

the history and mission of the Center; scientists from each research program presented 

their current work. The class also toured the NWRC research campus. In addition, the 

UN-L class visited the Colorado Division of Wildlife, attended a seminar at Rocky 

Mountain National Park given by a scientist from the NWRC Logan, UT, field station, 

and visited an NWRC research study site in Estes Park, CO, where a novel fence for 

excluding elk is being evaluated. At this site members of the Colorado State University 

Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society, who are assisting with the study, described their 

activities and interactions with NWRC. 

Nonlethal Predation Management for Wolves Presentation – On April 20, 2004, a 

scientist from the NWRC Logan, UT, field station presented a talk “Current Development 

and Future Directions in Nonlethal Predation Management for Wolves” at the Wolf 

Stewards meeting in Odanah, WI. The conference was attended by approximately 100 

people, including members of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan state agencies, WS 

operational personnel from several states, and the general public.

Bird Hazard Task Force Meeting – Scientists from the NWRC Sandusky, OH, 

field station participated in a meeting of the Bird Hazard Task Force at John F. Kennedy 

International Airport (JFKIA) on March 18, 2004. The scientists updated findings from an 
15

examination of laughing gull dietary patterns and invertebrates inhabiting JFKIA. Preliminary study findings 

suggest Jamaica Bay laughing gulls forage on a wide variety of foods, most of marine origin (e.g., horseshoe 

crab eggs). Terrestrial (e.g., insects) and anthropogenic (e.g., French fries) foods are also important. The 

NWRC scientists also provided an overview of several 2004 research projects to be conducted at JFKIA. 

Vertebrate Pest Research Advisory Council Meeting – NWRC scientists from Fort Collins, CO, 

traveled to Modesto, CA, on April 22, 2004 for a meeting of the Vertebrate Pest Research Advisory Council. 

The Council funds some NWRC research projects aimed at improving wildlife damage management 

technology. In attendance were a number of California county agriculture commissioners, WS staff, 

University of California-Davis researchers, and agricultural producers/growers. Research updates provided 

by NWRC scientists dealt with (1) a benefit-cost analysis of WS-CA, (2) the development of a reproductive 

agent to reduce fertility in crows and rodents, and (3) the development of a novel toxicant for coyotes. 

West Nile Virus Overview and History in North America – On April 24, 2004, a scientist from the 

NWRC made a presentation in Golden, CO, on “West Nile Virus Overview and History in North America” 

at a public forum on “Wildlife Diseases and You” sponsored by the Colorado Wildlife Federation and the 

National Wildlife Federation. Presentations provided information on West Nile virus and chronic wasting 

disease on both national and regional issues related to wildlife, domestic animal, and human health. 

Double-crested cormorant Management Presentation – Scientists from the NWRC Starkville, 

MS, field station joined New York WS biologists at the annual meeting of the Oneida Lake Association 

in Cicero, NY, April 21-22, 2004. The WS biologists presented information and answered questions from 

local residents on a joint program for conducting research and management on double-crested cormorants 

that breed in central New York. This meeting serves as an annual forum for natural resource managers to 

update local citizens, economic development organizations, and environmental interests on work pertaining 

to the economic and ecological well-being of the Oneida Lake ecosystem. Approximately 350 residents and 

interested parties attended the event.

Nanawale, HI, Community Fair Booth – Researchers from the NWRC Hilo, HI, field station presented 

an informational booth at the Nanawale Community Fair in the Puna district of the Big Island on April 24, 

2004. Approximately 200 people attended the fair. The NWRC biologists presented ecological and damage 

control information on invasive rodents, Caribbean tree frogs, brown treesnakes, birds, and mongooses using 

visual displays, written material, and animal specimens. They also assisted the community coordinator in 

mapping out coqui frog populations within Nanawale Estates, and gave advice on how to conduct sound 

surveys to estimate frog densities. The researchers plan to follow up the fair presentation with a presentation 

to the Nanawale Community Association members and homeowners, focusing on coqui frog biology and 

how to coordinate frog control within the community. 

Wildlife Damage Management for Natural Resource Managers Conference – The NWRC Olympia, 

WA, field station hosted the conference “Wildlife Damage Management for Natural Resource Managers” in 

Olympia, WA, April 27-28, 2004. More than 100 persons from 8 states and Canada participated. Nine WS 

NWRC and Operations experts joined with industry and academic scientists to present materials pertinent 
16

to forest managers for protecting trees from wildlife. One session focused on current status and feasibility 

of control techniques such as toxicants, repellents, reproductive inhibitors, trapping, habitat modification, 

alternative food sources, fences, and frightening devices. The next session concerned identification and 

control of species known to cause damage to forest resources (e.g., beavers, porcupines, rabbits, squirrels, 

voles, mountain beavers, and deer). A panel discussion revolved around how to respond to wildlife damage 

issues, and perspectives from the public, wildlife managers, and timber owners were presented. At the 

end of the presentations and discussions, participants were invited to view both wildlife species and 

field demonstrations of management techniques for wildlife species, and to talk with technical experts. 

Participants also were invited to tour the NWRC field station research facilities showcasing experimental 

work with deer and rodents in both laboratories and controlled natural habitat environments.

FAA Worldwide Airport Technology Transfer Conference – Sandusky, OH, field station scientists 

presented papers at the biennial meeting of the FAA Worldwide Airport Technology Transfer Conference 

in Atlantic City, NJ, April 18-21, 2004. The papers were entitled “Providing Techniques to Reduce Wildlife 

Risks to Aviation” and “Management of Vegetation to Reduce Wildlife Hazards at Airports.” Approximately 

200 individuals participated in the meeting in which 42 papers were presented. 

Ohio State University Wildlife Biology Students – The NWRC Sandusky, OH, field station, located on 

the 6,000-acre NASA Plum Brook Station, hosted 35 wildlife biology students from Ohio State University on 

April 30, 2004. Students toured the station and viewed demonstrations of current research on the physiology 

of avian vision, identification and necropsy of birds struck by aircraft, use of lasers to disperse birds, 

habitat manipulation and use of chemicals, evaluating effectiveness of repellents and selected vegetation for 

deterring Canada geese, electric fencing and other barriers, raccoon rabies, and the forward-looking infrared 

camera as a survey tool. Students were also lectured on trapping techniques, radiotelemetry, and ecology of 

river otters in Ohio. Throughout the visit, emphasis was placed on demonstrating to the students the scientific 

method, the importance of rigorous experimental design, and the integrated research and management 

approach needed to resolve various conflicts between wildlife and people.

International Conference on Utility Line Structures – An NWRC scientist from Fort Collins, 

CO, participated in a discussion of woodpecker damage to wood utility poles as part of the International 

Conference on Utility Line Structures held March 28-31, 2004, in Fort Collins, CO. The group included 

representatives from several U.S. and Canadian utility companies. The discussions centered on the extent of 

woodpecker damage to poles, potential products for prevention, control and repair of damage, and current 

NWRC repellent research on pileated woodpeckers. The group toured the NWRC research campus and saw 

first hand the amount of damage pileated woodpeckers can do to untreated poles.

Big Dogs and Big Cats: Carnivore Research in North and South America – A scientist from the 

NWRC Logan, UT, field station presented a lecture entitled “Big Dogs and Big Cats: Carnivore Research 

in North and South America” on Saturday, April 3, 2004, in Rocky Mountain National Park, CO. This talk 

was sponsored by the National Park Service as part of the Lyceum Lecture Series focusing on predators. The 

NWRC scientist discussed research projects examining the interactions of wolves, coyotes, and pronghorn 

antelope in the Grand Teton National Park area, as well as research investigating relationships among jaguars, 

native prey, and livestock in Brazil. This lecture was attended by more than 100 persons from the Estes Park 

and Denver, CO, areas.
17

Mongoose Management Plan for Hawaii – Small Indian mongooses were 

introduced to Hawaii Island in 1883 from Jamaica and India by the early sugarcane 

planters to exterminate rats in sugarcane fields. Subsequent introductions were done 

on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu; none was introduced on the island of 

Kauai, one of the few places in Hawaii where ground-nesting native bird species 

continue to reproduce successfully. On May 5, 2004, a scientist from the NWRC Hilo, 

HI, field station gave a presentation on mongoose lures and trapping strategies to 

agencies concerned with mongooses spreading to Kauai. The group was composed of 

representatives from the USFWS, WS, the Nature Conservancy, USDA Plant Protection 

and Quarantine, and Hawaii state and county agencies. The scientist also developed a 

preliminary management plan for responding to sightings of mongooses on the island. 

Two documented road-kills of mongooses and numerous credible mongoose sightings 

have been reported on Kauai over the past 10-15 years. Despite extensive trapping efforts, 

no individuals have been subsequently observed or captured. The management plan will 

provide a mechanism for keeping Kauai mongoose-free. 

The NWRC 

scientist 

discussed 

research 

projects 

examining the 

interactions of 

wolves, coyotes, 

and pronghorn 

antelope in the 

Grand Teton 

National Park 

area, as well 

as research 

investigating 

relationships 

among jaguars, 

native prey, 

and livestock in 

Brazil.
18

VALUING AND 

INVESTING IN PEOPLE

Director Dr. Richard Curnow Retires – After nearly 37 years of federal service, 

Dr. Richard D. Curnow, NWRC Director, announced his retirement effective April 3, 

2004. Dick served as Assistant Director of NWRC from 1977 until 1994 at which time 

he became the Director. As the Director he spearheaded the planning, construction, 

establishment, and relocation of the Center from Denver to Fort Collins, CO. Over the 

years, Dick received added numerous awards and recognitions, including the Federal 

Energy Saver Showcase Award, the USDA Secretary of Agriculture Honors, and the 

USDA Special Act Award. Dick was also recognized by the Colorado State University 

Alumni Association in 2002 as a Distinguished Alumnus of the College of Natural 

Resources. In retirement, Dick plans to enjoy his new house on the banks of the Poudre 

River, fish and hunt at every opportunity, and spend time with his family including 

his two grandsons. We will greatly miss Dick’s friendly personality and dedicated and 

professional leadership. 

2003 Publication Award – NWRC Director Richard Curnow presented the 2003 

Publication Award to the following NWRC publication: Glahn, J. F.; Dorr, B.; Harrel, J. 

B.; Khoo, L. 2003. Foraging ecology and depredation management of great blue herons at 

Mississippi catfish farms. Journal of Wildlife Management 66: 194-201. This publication 

is an excellent example of the quality of research being conducted by NWRC scientists 

and their collaborators.

Editor’s Award – During the week of October, 12, 2003, Dr. Jimmy Taylor, a 

biologist from the NWRC Starkville, MS, field station, attended the 57th Annual Meeting 

of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (SEAFWA) in Mobile, 

Alabama. Dr. Taylor was recognized for his outstanding service as the associate editor for 

wildlife by the Southeastern Section of The Wildlife Society. 

Society of Quality Assurance Chapter President – NWRC Quality Assurance 

Officer Cathy Bens recently completed her position as President of the Rocky Mountain 

Chapter of the Society of Quality Assurance. Ms. Bens is also the Newsletter Editor for 

the Chapter. 

Library System Board President – Ms. Diana Dwyer, NWRC Information 

Specialist, recently completed a term as President of the High Plains Library Service 

System Governing Board. High Plains Library System provides training and cooperative 

service support to libraries in northeastern Colorado. Ms. Dwyer is also the Special 

Library representative on the Colorado Library Consortium Board, a state-wide library 

system that supports Colorado libraries and their service to Colorado residents.

After nearly 

37 years of 

federal service, 

Dr. Richard 

D. Curnow, 

NWRC 

Director, 

announced 

his retirement 

effective April 

3, 2004.
19

United States Department of Agriculture

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Wildlife Services

National Wildlife Research Center

4101 LaPorte Ave.

Fort Collins, CO 80521-2154

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/nwrc

Main Telephone Number

(970) 266-6000 

FAX: (970) 266-6032 

Information Services

(970) 266-6015

FAX: (970) 266-6010

email: nwrc@usda.gov

Animal Care 

(970) 266-6204

Research Programs:

Birds: (970) 266-6133

Mammals: (970) 266-6084

Product Development: (970) 266-6159

Wildlife Disease: (970) 266-6262

NWRC Field Stations

Bismarck, ND

(701) 250-4468

FAX: (701) 250-4408

Gainesville, FL

(352) 375-2229

FAX: (352) 377-5559

Hilo, HI

(808) 961-4482

FAX: (808) 961-4776

Logan, UT

(435) 797-1348

FAX: (435) 797-0288

Millville, UT Office

(435) 245-6091

FAX: (435) 245-3156

Olympia, WA

(360) 956-3793

FAX: (360) 534-9755

Sandusky, OH

(419) 625-0242

FAX: (419) 625–8465

Starkville, MS

(662) 325-8215

FAX: (662) 325-8704

Philadelphia, PA

(215) 898-3092

FAX: (215) 898-2084
“Solutions to problems depend upon knowledge 

which only research can provide.”

H. Kalmbach

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its 

programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, 

political beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family status. (Not all prohibited biases apply 

to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication 

of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET 

Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 

326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or 

call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Mention of companies or commercial products does not imply recommendation or 

endorsement by USDA over others not mentioned. USDA neither guarantees nor warrants the 

standard of any product mentioned. Product names are mentioned solely to report factually on 

available data and to provide specific information.

This publication reports research involving pesticides. All uses of pesticides must be registered by 

appropriate state and/or federal agencies before they can be recommended.

CAUTION: Pesticides can be injurious to humans, domestic animals, desirable plants, and fish 

or other wildlife if they are not handled or applied properly. Use all pesticides selectively and 

carefully. Follow recommended practices for the disposal of surplus pesticides and pesticide 

containers.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Wildlife Services

email: nwrc@usda.gov

Http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ws/nwrc

National Wildlife Research Center

4101 LaPorte Ave.

Fort Collins, CO 80521-2154

(970) 266-6000 Main number

(970) 266-6032 (FAX)

(970) 266-6015 Information Services