bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Calcium‐Loading on Egg Production in Ring‐Necked Pheasants
Authors: JONES LANDON R. , BLACK HAL L. , WHITE CLAYTON M. , JOHNSTON N. PAUL , MCGEE MEGHAN E. , DONAHUE SETH W. , EGGETT DENNIS L.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Ring‐necked pheasants (Phasianus colchicus) are able to store dietary calcium as medullary bone, which they may mobilize for future eggshell synthesis. We define this mechanism as calcium‐loading. Previous experiments on pheasants conducted to document the importance of calcium in limiting distribution did not account for calcium‐loading. We hypothesized that calcium‐loading could override experimental calcium treatments of the diet. We measured egg production, egg characteristics, and femoral mineral content for pheasants that were not calcium‐loaded on 7 diets differing in calcium from 0.2% to 4.5% and compared these results to a similar study on calcium‐loaded pheasants. We predicted that calcium‐loaded pheasants would produce more eggs than those that were not calcium‐loaded. We also predicted that there would be no significant difference between femur ash fractions in non‐calcium‐loaded pheasants, but that the ash fraction in calcium‐loaded pheasants would differ significantly between the beginning and end of the experiment. Egg production was higher in calcium‐loaded pheasants above 2% dietary calcium. Femur ash fraction was not different in non–calcium‐loaded pheasants but differed significantly before and after the experiment and between high (>2%) and low (<2%) dietary levels in calcium‐loaded pheasants. Calcium‐loading may account for short‐term persistence of captive pheasants introduced on calcium‐poor soils, followed by their eventual population failure. Managers may improve survival of captive pheasants before introduction by surveying habitat for adequate calcium and by calcium‐loading.
Separating Components of the Detection Process With Combined Methods: An Example With Northern Bobwhite
Authors: RIDDLE JASON D. , STANISLAV STEPHEN J. , POLLOCK KENNETH H. , MOORMAN CHRISTOPHER E. , PERKINS FERN S.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:There are various methods of estimating detection probabilities for avian point counts. Distance and multiple‐observer methods require the sometimes unlikely assumption that all birds in the population are available (i.e., sing or are visible) during a count, but the time‐of‐detection method allows for the possibility that some birds are unavailable during the count. We combined the dependent double‐observer method with the time‐of‐detection method and obtained field‐based estimates of the components of detection probability for northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Our approach was a special case of Pollock's robust capture‐recapture design where the probability that a bird does not sing is analogous to the probability that an animal is a temporary emigrant. Top models indicated that observers' detection probabilities were similar (0.78–0.84) if bobwhite were available, but bobwhite only had an approximately 0.61 probability of being available during a 2.5‐minute sampling interval. Additionally, observers' detection probabilities increased substantially after the initial encounter with an individual bobwhite (analogous to a trap‐happy response on the part of the observer). A simulated data set revealed that the combined method was precise when availability and detection given availability were substantially lower. Combined methods approaches can provide critical information for researchers and land managers to make decisions regarding survey length and personnel requirements for point‐count‐based surveys.
Estimation of Species Identification Error: Implications for Raptor Migration Counts and Trend Estimation
Authors: HULL JOSHUA M. , FISH ALLEN M. , KEANE JOHN J. , MORI SYLVIA R. , SACKS BENJAMIN N. , HULL ANGUS C.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:One of the primary assumptions associated with many wildlife and population trend studies is that target species are correctly identified. This assumption may not always be valid, particularly for species similar in appearance to co‐occurring species. We examined size overlap and identification error rates among Cooper's (Accipiter cooperii) and sharp‐shinned (A. striatus) hawks specific to a raptor migration count station along the Pacific Coast of North America. Illustrating the difficulty of distinguishing between these 2 species, we found overlap in 7 metrics among species‐sex groups and in 2 metrics between species, and a principal components analysis revealed a continuum of discrete clusters for each species‐sex combination in morphospace. Among juvenile hawks (n= 940), we found the greatest misidentification rate for male Cooper's hawks (23% of the 156 males were identified as sharp‐shinned), lesser error rates for female Cooper's (8%,n= 339) and female sharp‐shinned (6%,n= 246), and the lowest misidentification rate for male sharp‐shinned hawks (0%,n= 199). We observed a similar pattern of misidentification among adult hawks (n= 48). We attempted to use conditional probabilities (identification rates) from calibration data to calculate the true number of adult and juvenile Cooper's hawks and sharp‐shinned hawks. Discrepancies between total number of observed accipiters and estimated number using calibration data suggest that daily observer misclassification rates are higher than misclassification rates estimated from calibration data and prevent correction of the raw data. Our results illustrate the importance of testing for and quantifying observer error in species identification in wildlife census and population trend studies particularly when target species may be easily confused with other nontarget species.
Radiotelemetry Applied to Field Studies of Shrews
Authors: RYCHLIK LESZEK , RUCZYŃSKI IRENEUSZ , BOROWSKI ZBIGNIEW
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Radiotelemetry is a widely used method to study ecology, behavior, and physiology of different animals but has rarely been used on shrews. Small body size, wide neck and narrow skull, high mobility, and fragility of shrews cause problems for both transmitter attachment and the safety of the animals. We developed a method for nonpermanent attachment of transmitters, which allowed us to track such small mammals as the Eurasian water shrews (Neomys fodiens; n = 39, mean body mass 14.9 g), Mediterranean water shrews (Neomys anomalus; n = 32, 10.9 g), and common shrews (Sorex araneus; n = 51, 8.1 g). We used microtransmitters weighing 0.47 g, but those we applied to the larger Neomys species were heavier (0.67 g) because we fortified them with a layer of hard material to prevent damage from biting. We glued a transmitter directly to the skin on a shrew's back, with the anterior edges particularly well sealed. We tracked shrews in the wild and in outdoor enclosures. Transmitters usually dropped off together with peeled skin (on average, after 56.0 hr, n = 92 observations), but if not dropped and if the signal was not lost, mean duration of monitoring was 96.7 hours (n = 37) and in 2 cases exceeded 194 hours. Other advantages of our attachment method were 1) it was less invasive and easier to apply than implantation of transmitters into the body cavity, and 2) we could find dropped transmitters and reuse them. We give suggestions on how to minimize the risk of injury to animals by correct handling, manipulation, and gluing. In conclusion, we recommend radiotelemetry as a useful technique for studying shrew behavior in both free‐living populations and experimental enclosures.
Accounting for Individuals, Uncertainty, and Multiscale Clustering in Core Area Estimation
Authors: WILSON RYAN R. , HOOTEN MEVIN B. , STROBEL BRADLEY N. , SHIVIK JOHN A.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Core areas are important descriptors of animal space‐use patterns, but current estimation methods rely on arbitrary rules and potentially lead to imprecise or erroneous area estimates. We proposed a Bayesian statistical model that incorporates an individual‐based method for estimating core area boundaries. The model accounts for boundary uncertainty and multiple scales of clustering by partitioning a home range into ≥2 completely spatially random point patterns defined by a kernel density isopleth. We used data from coyotes (Canis latrans), bobcats (Lynx rufus), and red‐shouldered hawks (Buteo lineatus) to estimate core areas for individual animals. We also estimated core areas from simulated point patterns with known boundaries, varying numbers of points, and relative densities of points inside core areas, and compared estimates to those obtained using the 50% isopleth. Optimal isopleths for the empirical data ranged between 18.7% and 71.5%. We found no species‐specific range of core area isopleths. Across all simulated scenarios, our method outperformed the 50% isopleth‐based estimate, which consistently overestimated core areas. Minta overlap values were 20–40% higher across all scenarios for our method compared to the 50% isopleth. Minta overlap values were >75% in 90% of scenarios using our method. Objectively estimating core areas using our individual‐based method may lead to improved inference about which behavioral and ecological processes underlie observed space‐use patterns because of greater estimate precision.
Incorporating Movement Behavior and Barriers to Improve Kernel Home Range Space Use Estimates
Authors: BENHAMOU SIMON , CORNÉLIS DANIEL
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Kernel‐based utilization distribution (UD) estimates are powerful tools to investigate home range space use and resource selection in many vertebrate species. By ignoring local movement information provided by the serial correlation between successive locations and the constraints to movement imposed by obvious boundaries, the classical kernel method results in loosely estimated UDs that tend to overflow into never‐visited areas and eventually in possibly biased estimates of space use and habitat selection. We improved biological relevance of kernel home range space use estimates by incorporating both movement (and activity) information and boundary constraints.
Blind Count Surveys of White‐Tailed Deer and Population Estimates Using Bowden's Estimators
Authors: WECKERLY FLOYD W. , FOSTER JUSTIN A.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Conducting surveys from blinds when supplemental feed (bait) has been provided has not been evaluated for estimating parameters of ungulate populations. We conducted blind count surveys of white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in a 214‐ha enclosure in central Texas, USA, in 2007 and 2008 to address 2 main objectives: 1) to evaluate a blind count survey protocol developed for use on small parcels of land, and 2) to use data collected from blind count surveys to conduct simulations to evaluate the reliability of abundance and sex ratio estimates obtained from Bowden's estimator. In each year population abundance (2007: 60; 2008: 48) and sex ratio (M:F, 2007: 0.58; 2008: 0.71) were known as were sighting frequencies of every animal. The enclosure had 5 blinds and we baited each blind with corn. We encountered many deer during surveys because there were only 2 deer in 2007 and 1 deer in 2008 that we did not view from blinds ≥1 time. To evaluate bias and precision of abundance and sex ratio estimates we conducted 10,000 bootstrap simulations. We evaluated both parameters in relation to the percentage of each population marked, number of surveys conducted from blinds, and whether surveys were conducted in the morning, evening, or both morning and evening. Also, we evaluated abundance in relation to whether we identified animals with unique marks to individual, and we evaluated sex ratio in relation to intersexual distribution of marks. Abundance estimates were less biased and more precise when we uniquely identified all marked animals and 40–70% of the population was marked. Sex ratio estimates were less biased when 40–70% of the population was marked and surveys were conducted in the morning and evening. Sex ratio estimates, however, were less precise than abundance estimates. Unbiased estimates of white‐tailed deer population parameters can be obtained from blind count surveys conducted on small parcels of enclosed land and when animals are baited.
Assessment of Abilities of White‐Tailed Deer to Jump Fences
Authors: VERCAUTEREN KURT C. , VANDEELEN TIMOTHY R. , LAVELLE MICHAEL J. , HALL WAYNE H.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: There is a need for insight into fence heights required for impeding white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). We evaluated the ability of wild‐caught deer to jump progressively taller fences and documented deterrence rates of 0% for fences ≤1.5 m followed by increasing deterrence rates of 14% at 1.8 m, 85% at 2.1 m, and 100% at 2.4 m. We documented 100% deterrence rates during 5 additional experiments with different deer and the test fence at 2.4 m, a common height of fences at captive deer facilities. Our results will be valuable to those managing spread of wildlife diseases, deer‐vehicle collisions, and agricultural damage.
Use of Rhodamine B to Reveal Patterns of Interspecific Competition and Bait Acceptance in Raccoons
Authors: SMYSER TIMOTHY J. , BEASLEY JAMES C. , OLSON ZACHARY H. , RHODES OLIN EUGENE
Published: October 2011

Abstract:Passive treatment of raccoons (Procyon lotor) through distribution of vaccine‐laden baits recently has emerged as a potential solution to address health and economic conflicts associated with raccoon rabies and may have applications in the management of other pathogens carried by raccoons if frequent bait deployments are used. Consumption of baits by nontarget species reduces the efficiency in which baits can be used to manage wildlife disease, although no study has explicitly evaluated the influence of bait competitor density on the ability to treat raccoons. Our objectives were to use the biomarker Rhodamine B (RB) to 1) evaluate patterns of raccoon bait acceptance as a function of competition with Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana), the dominant bait competitor; 2) characterize attributes of opossum bait acceptance to improve efficiency of raccoon treatment; and 3) evaluate the effect of repeated bait exposure on rates of bait acceptance as may be required in the management of wildlife disease issues beyond rabies. Identifying bait consumption by individuals based on the presence of an RB mark in a sample of whiskers, we used logistic regression to model raccoon and opossum bait acceptance as a function of bait availability, previous exposure to baits, demographic attributes, and an index of time spent in the baited area (residency index). For both raccoons and opossums, the best measure of bait availability was the variable number of baits per opossum. The most parsimonious logistic regression model for raccoon bait acceptance included the variables baits per opossum, exposure history, and residency index. The strength of the variable baits per opossum relative to competing measures of bait availability indicated bait consumption by opossums significantly limited the ability to treat raccoons. The most parsimonious model for opossum acceptance was composed of the variables baits per opossum, sex, weight, residency index, baits per opossum X sex, and weight X sex. Patterns of opossum bait acceptance likely were driven by effects of bait availability and sex‐dependent differences in movement. Our results call attention to the importance of bait competition in limiting the ability to effectively treat raccoon populations through distribution of baits and suggest managers incorporate information on density of bait competitors, particularly opossums, in allocation of baits.
Considerations for Developing Wolf Harvesting Regulations in the Contiguous United States
Authors: MECH L. DAVID
Published: October 2011

Abstract: As gray wolves (Canis lupus) are removed from the federal Endangered Species List, management reverts to the states. Eventually most states will probably allow public wolf harvesting. Open seasons between about 1 November and 1 March accord more with basic wolf biology than during other times. Managers who consider wolf biology and public sensitivities, adapt public‐taking regulations accordingly, and adjust harvest regulations as they learn will be best able to maximize the recreational value of wolf harvesting, minimize public animosity toward it, and meet their harvest objectives.
Quantifying Economic Impacts of Large‐Carnivore Depredation on Bovine Calves
Authors: SOMMERS ALBERT P. , PRICE CHARLES C. , URBIGKIT CAT D. , PETERSON ERIC M.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: We examined and quantified the economic impact of grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) and gray wolf (Canis lupus) depredation on calves in the Upper Green River Cattle Allotment in western Wyoming, USA, using records of the number of animals grazed and number lost during 1990–2004. Our analysis indicated that increased calf losses coincided with grizzly bear and gray wolf arrival and population establishment, with the first confirmed depredation by grizzly bears in 1995 and the first confirmed wolf depredation in 2000. From 1995 through 2004, 29,693 calves grazed on the allotment, and of the 1,332 calves lost to all causes, an estimated 520 calves were lost to grizzly bear depredation and 177 calves to gray wolf depredation. We examined past and current grizzly and gray wolf compensation programs with respect to reimbursement of producers for costs associated with large‐carnivore depredation. Estimated 1995–2004 uncompensated financial impacts from grizzly bear and gray wolf calf losses on the allotment were US222,500. Our analysis suggested equitable compensation factors of 3.8:1 for grizzly bear depredation and 6.3:1 for gray wolf depredation. Inadequate compensation for livestock depredation results in resistance to large‐carnivore recovery programs. Development of compensation programs that fairly reimburse livestock producers for losses is, therefore, a necessary component of carnivore recovery efforts. Our analysis also suggested that grizzly bear management actions were effectively targeting livestock‐depredating grizzly bears on the allotment.
Effects of Maternal Status on the Movement and Mortality of Sterilized Female White‐Tailed Deer
Authors: GILMAN R. TUCKER , MATHEWS NANCY E. , SKINNER BLAIRE G. , JULIS VICKI L. , FRANK ELIZABETH S. , PAUL‐MURPHY JOANNE
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Surgical sterilization by tubal ligation has been proposed as a technique for controlling white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations in urban or suburban areas where other forms of population control are impractical, but little is known about demographic rates in populations under management with surgical sterilization. We analyzed seasonal movement and mortality data collected during a 4‐year study of surgical sterilization in suburban Chicago, Illinois, USA. We calculated 323 home range size estimates for 62 individual females within season and year. Non‐gravid females without young exhibited home range sizes 52% larger than gravid females and females with fawns. Mortality rate was positively correlated with home range size. We suggest that the increased mortality rate observed in surgically sterilized females may be due to greater movement by non‐maternal females. Population managers will need to account for potential effects of maternal status on movement and mortality when considering the use of sterilization for management of suburban populations of white‐tailed deer.
Habitat Use by Saw‐Whet Owls in the Sierra Nevada
Authors: GROCE JULIE E. , MORRISON MICHAEL L.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:Northern saw‐whet owls (Aegolius acadicus) are secondary cavity‐nesters and their dependence on snags has potential repercussions on forest management practices. Descriptive studies exist regarding habitat characteristics around saw‐whet nest and roost areas, yet few studies have examined associations within larger areas or relative to snag characteristics (e.g., density). We conducted owl broadcast surveys and snag sampling during the spring and summer of 2006 and 2007 in the Lake Tahoe Basin of the central Sierra Nevada; we measured additional habitat variables from Geographic Information System layers. We modeled detection and occupancy probabilities for saw‐whets using sampling and site covariates at survey sites. In addition, we used stepwise logistic regression to compare habitat characteristics at owl use sites and nonuse sites at 2 spatial scales. Detection probability was low in 2006 and decreased throughout the survey period; detection probability was slightly higher in 2007 and unaffected by day of survey. Probability of occupancy was affected by elevation and dominant tree species in 2007. Similarly, stepwise logistic regression indicated saw‐whet occurrence was negatively correlated with the percentage of area dominated by white fir (Abies concolor) at both the macrohabitat (approx. 260 ha) and microhabitat (approx. 20 ha) scales and was positively correlated with the percentage of area containing open canopy at the microhabitat scale. We did not find correlations between saw‐whet occurrence and snag characteristics. Current restoration projects in areas of the Sierra Nevada aim to decrease relative abundance of white fir and the number of snags in forest stands. We recommend continued monitoring of saw‐whets to understand potential effects of these restoration activities. Our estimates of saw‐whet occupancy and detection probabilities can be used by forest managers to determine necessary survey effort for reliable results when developing monitoring protocols.
Landscape‐Level Assessment of Brood Rearing Habitat for Greater Sage‐Grouse in Nevada
Authors: ATAMIAN MICHAEL T. , SEDINGER JAMES S. , HEATON JILL S. , BLOMBERG ERIK J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Loss of quality brood rearing habitat, resulting in reduced chick growth and poor recruitment, is one mechanism associated with decline of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) populations. Low chick survival rates are typically attributed to poor‐quality brood rearing habitat. Models that delineate suitability of sage‐grouse nesting or brood rearing habitat at the landscape scale can provide key insights into the relationship between sage‐grouse and the environment, allowing managers to identify and prioritize habitats for protection or restoration. We used Southwest Regional Gap landcover types to identify early and late greater sage‐grouse brood rearing in east‐central Nevada. We conducted an Ecological Niche Factor Analysis to 1) examine the effect these landcover types and other ecogeographical variables have on sage‐grouse selection of brood rearing habitat, and 2) generate landscape‐scale suitability maps. We also evaluated if incorporating a fitness component (brood survival) in landscape spatial analyses of habitat quality influenced our assessment of habitat suitability. Because 36% of our 6,500‐km2 study area was identified as early brood rearing habitat, we believe this habitat may not be limiting greater sage‐grouse populations in east‐central Nevada, USA, at least in wet years. We found strong selection for particular landcover types (e.g., higher elevation, moist sites with riparian shrubs or montane sagebrush) during late brood rearing. Late brood rearing habitat on which broods were successfully reared represented only 2.8% of the study area and had a restricted distribution, suggesting the potential that such habitat could limit sage‐grouse populations in east‐central Nevada.
Greater Sage‐Grouse Nesting Habitat: The Importance of Managing at Multiple Scales
Authors: DOHERTY KEVIN E. , NAUGLE DAVID E. , WALKER BRETT L.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Considering habitat selection at multiple scales is essential to fully understand habitat requirements and management needs for wildlife species of concern. We used a hierarchical information‐theoretic approach and variance decomposition techniques to analyze habitat selection using local‐scale habitat variables measured in the field and landscape‐scale variables derived with a Geographic Information System (GIS) for nesting greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) in the Powder River Basin (PRB), Montana and Wyoming, USA, 2003–2007. We investigated relationships between habitat features that can and cannot be mapped in a GIS to provide insights into interpretation of landscape‐scale—only GIS models. We produced models of habitat selection at both local and landscape scales and across scales, yet multiscale models had overwhelming statistical and biological support. Variance decomposition showed that local‐scale measures explained the most pure variation (50%) in sage‐grouse nesting‐habitat selection. Landscape‐scale features explained 20% of pure variation and shared 30% with local‐scale features. Both local‐ and landscape‐scale habitat features are important in sage‐grouse nesting‐habitat selection because each scale explained both pure and shared variation. Our landscape‐scale model was accurate in predicting priority landscapes where sage‐grouse nests would occur and is, therefore, useful in providing landscape context for management decisions. It accurately predicted locations of independent sage‐grouse nests (validation R2 = 0.99) and showed good discriminatory ability with >90% of nests located within only 40% of the study area. Our landscape‐scale model also accurately predicted independent lek locations. We estimated twice the amount of predicted nesting habitat within 3 km of leks compared to random locations in the PRB. Likewise we estimated 1.8 times more predicted nesting habitat within 10 km of leks compared to random locations. These results support predictions of the hotspot theory of lek placement. Local‐scale habitat variables that cannot currently be mapped in a GIS strongly influence sage‐grouse nest‐site selection, but only within priority nesting habitats defined at the landscape scale. Our results indicate that habitat treatments for nesting sage‐grouse applied in areas with an unsuitable landscape context are unlikely to achieve desired conservation results.
Seasonal Abundance and Species Richness of Birds in Common Reed Habitats in Lake Erie
Authors: MEYER SHAWN W. , BADZINSKI SHANNON S. , PETRIE SCOTT A. , ANKNEY C. DAVISON
Published: October 2011

Abstract:Common reed (Phragmites australis) forms dense stands with deep layers of residual organic matter that negatively affects plant diversity and possibly habitat use by wetland birds. We sought to determine whether seasonal relative abundance and species richness of birds varied among 3 habitat types in Great Lakes coastal wetland complexes recently invaded by common reed. We used fixed‐distance point counts to determine species relative abundances and species richness in edge and interior locales within common reed, cattail (Typhaspp.), and meadow marsh habitats of various sizes during 2 summers (2001 and 2002) and 1 autumn (2001) at Long Point, Lake Erie, Ontario, Canada. We found that total relative abundance and species richness of birds were greater in common reed habitat compared to cattail or meadow marsh habitats. However, we also found that relative abundance of marsh‐nesting birds was greater in meadow marsh habitat than in cattail and common reed during summer. Lastly, we found that, irrespective of habitat type, habitat edges had higher total relative abundance and species richness of birds than did habitat interiors. Our results show that common reed provides suitable habitat for a diversity of landbirds during summer and autumn but only limited habitat for many marsh‐nesting birds during summer. Based on these results, we recommend restoration of meadow marsh habitat through reduction of common reed in Great Lakes wetlands where providing habitat for breeding marsh‐nesting birds is an objective. Managers also might consider reducing the size of nonnative common reed stands to increase edge effect and use by birds, possibly including wetland birds.
Basin‐Scale Surveys of Stream‐Associated Amphibians in Intensively Managed Forests
Authors: KROLL ANDREW J. , MACCRACKEN JAMES G. , MCBRIDE TIMOTHY C. , BAKKE JENNIFFER , LIGHT JEFF , PETERSON PHIL , BACH JANETTE
Published: October 2011

Abstract:Conservation and management of native species on landscapes managed for intensive wood production represents an ongoing challenge to forest managers. Previous research suggests that impacts of forest practices on stream‐associated amphibians (SAA; giant [Dicamptodonspp.], torrent [Rhyacotritonspp.], and plethodontid [Plethodonspp.] salamanders and coastal tailed frogs [Ascaphus truei]) in Oregon and Washington, USA, vary spatially and temporally as a result of biotic and abiotic factors, some of which can be influenced by management treatments. Although individual harvest units can encompass multiple stream reaches and entire second‐order basins, nearly all published research studies used stream reaches of various lengths as sample units. To address this discrepancy between research and operational scales, we sampled first‐, second‐, and third‐order streams in 70 randomly selected third‐order basins in Oregon and Washington in 2007 and 2008 to estimate detection and occupancy parameters for SAA and to develop basin‐level density estimates for different species and genera. We estimated occupancy probabilities of 0.99 (95% CL = 0.96–1.00) for torrent and giant salamanders, 0.93 (95% CL = 0.76–0.92) for Dunn's salamanders (Plethodon dunni), and 0.60 (95% CL = 0.46–0.72) for tailed frogs. Our estimates can be compared with estimates for unmanaged third‐order basins in Oregon and Washington to provide a relative measure of potential impacts of forest management on these taxa. In addition, our estimates provide baseline information with which to assess potential effects of future environmental changes on the 4 genera.
Population Estimation Techniques for Lekking Species
Authors: WALSH DANIEL P. , STIVER JULIE R. , WHITE GARY C. , REMINGTON THOMAS E. , APA ANTHONY D.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: With the decline of many lekking species, the need to develop a rigorous population estimation technique is critical for successful conservation and management. We employed mark—resight methods to estimate population size for 2 lekking species: greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) and Gunnison sage‐grouse (Centrocercus minimus). We evaluated 2 different estimators: Bowden's estimator and the mixed logit‐normal mark—resight model. We captured and marked 75 greater sage‐grouse. We counted marked and unmarked birds as they attended 15 known leks. We used 36 and 37 marked Gunnison sage‐grouse to estimate population size in 2003 and 2004, respectively. We observed marked and unmarked Gunnison sage‐grouse daily as they attended 6 leks in 2003 and 3 leks in 2004. Based on our examination of the assumptions of each mark—resight estimator, relative to behavior and biology of these species, we concluded the mixed logit‐normal mark—resight model is preferred. We recommend wildlife managers employ mark—resight approaches when statistically rigorous population estimates are required for management and conservation of lekking species.
Response of Deer to Containment by a Poly‐Mesh Fence for Mitigating Disease Outbreaks
Authors: LAVELLE MICHAEL J. , FISCHER JUSTIN W. , HYGNSTROM SCOTT E. , WHITE JOSHUA J. , HILDRETH AARON M. , PHILLIPS GREGORY E. , VERCAUTEREN KURT C.
Published: October 2011

Abstract: Rapidly deployable and effective methods are needed to contain free‐ranging deer (Odocoileus spp.) during acute disease outbreaks. We evaluated efficacy of a 2.1‐m‐tall polypropylene mesh (poly‐mesh) fence for containing ≥15 free‐ranging white‐tailed deer (O. virginianus) within a 42‐ha area in eastern Nebraska, USA. We observed a 99% decrease in deer leaving the enclosure area after we installed fencing (1 deer jumped; 0.02 deer/hr) compared with prefence rates (5.26 deer/hr). However, 8 deer (53% of censused population) escaped the enclosure during a census drive after our study. Poly‐mesh fencing may be effective in temporarily containing free‐ranging deer during minimally disruptive deer removal actions such as trapping or sharpshooting.
Perceptions of cause and control of impulse control behaviours in people with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Delaney Mary , Simpson Jane , Leroi Iracema
Published: October 2011

Objectives. Impulse control behaviours (ICBs) have been a recent focus of research in people with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the current literature is largely limited to a biomedical understanding and gaps remain in our understanding of the perceived cause of these behaviours and how people themselves experience them. Consequently, this study sought to investigate how people with PD perceive the cause and controllability of their ICB.

Design. The study utilized qualitative methodology involving semi‐structured interviews. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) allowed an in‐depth exploration of the subjective experience of ICBs.

Methods. Ten people with idiopathic PD and current or recent history of ICBs were recruited from an existing research participant pool.

Results. The themes that arose from the participants’ accounts were ‘Conflicting views on causality’, ‘Impulse control behaviours as a coping strategy’, and ‘The relationship between causal attribution and perceived controllability’.

Conclusion. Participants’ beliefs about the cause of ICBs varied from externalized cause (medication) to internalized (coping with the impact of PD). These causal attributions were fundamental to the perceived controllability of the behaviours and psychological benefits. Further research is warranted to explore a psychosocial viewpoint of this feature of PD and to provide appropriate and effective biopsychosocial interventions.
Comment on relationships and the social brain: Integrating psychological and evolutionary perspectives
Authors: Kraut Robert E. , Rosenn Itamar
Published: October 2011

This article is a commentary on ‘Relationships and the social brain: Integrating psychological and evolutionary perspectives’ (Sutcliffe, Dunbar, Binder, & Arrow, 2012).
No atheists in foxholes: Arguments for (but not against) afterlife belief buffers mortality salience effects for atheists
Authors: Heflick Nathan A. , Goldenberg Jamie L.
Published: October 2011

Terror management theory (TMT) posits that people cope with mortality concerns via symbolic immortality (e.g., secular cultural beliefs that outlast death) and/or literal immortality (afterlife belief). However, what happens when these two forms of immortality conflict, as in atheism? Would atheists’ mortality concerns be better assuaged by affirming an afterlife, or by affirming their literal immortality‐denying worldview? Drawing on an untested TMT hypothesis, we predicted that atheists would be buffered from mortality concerns if their atheistic worldview – no life after death – was challenged, but not if it was supported. Results confirmed the hypothesis and were also found for theists and agnostics. These findings support TMT's claim that literal immortality is of paramount importance in ameliorating death concerns.
Effect of Meso to Micro Transition in Morphology Dependent Fracture of SiC Ceramics
Authors: Lee Hongsuk , Tomar Vikas
Published: October 2011

Silicon carbide (SiC) is an important ceramic material usually found in polycrystalline form with grain boundary thickness ranging from a few nanometers to a few hundred nanometers and grains with multiple orientations with sizes of the order of few micrometers. The present work focuses on analyzing how the interplay between different orientations of SiC grains and different grain boundary thicknesses can be exploited for targeted improvement in the fracture resistance properties of SiC. Crack propagation simulations using the cohesive finite element method (CFEM) are performed on the finite element meshes developed on experimentally processed SiC morphologies. Analyses were performed at two different length scales: 300 μm × 60 μm (scale-1:Microscale) and 75 μm × 15 μm (scale-2:Mesoscale). Lower resolution microstructure at scale-1 does not explicitly consider the presence of grain boundaries (GBs). Higher resolution microstructure at scale-2 explicitly models GBs. Results indicate that the effect of change in grain orientation is on crack path only. The fracture resistance is not significantly affected. The presence of GBs may directly aid in strengthening a microstructure’s fracture resistance. However, indirectly it may weaken a microstructure by favoring the formation of microcracks. Significantly higher crack formation in grain interior while lower interfacial energy dissipation in comparison to interfaces indicates overall lower fracture strength of grain interiors in comparison to interfaces. If GBs are not accounted for, the second most influencing factor affecting fracture strength is the average grains size. Overall, it is mainly the GBs not the grain orientation distribution and grain size that significantly affects fracture strength.
Acoustic properties of green walls with and without vegetation
Authors: Horoshenkov V. Kirill , Khan Amir , Benkreira Hadj , Mandon Agnès , Rohr Rene
Published: October 2011

One substantial issue with the majority of modern methods for noise control is their heavy reliance on man-made acoustic structures which require continuous service and maintenance. In this respect, the use of the inherent noise control properties of vegetation appears particular attractive compared to other street/square treatments for reducing noise such as adding façade absorption and diffusion. A green wall with a carefully selected type of soil substrate provides an alternative to more conventional types of acoustic treatment. This work studies the influence of leaves (foliage) on acoustic absorption of soils, plants, and their combination which are typically used in green (living) walls. It is shown the the presence of plans with a particular type of leaves can result in a considerable (up to 50%) improvement in the absorption coefficient of a green wall with soil at a certain water saturation. The acoustic absorption coefficient of these systems is examined here through laboratory measurements and theoretical prediction models. The plants in this study were chosen to cover a range of possible leaf types, sizes, and densities.
Analyzing the auditory nature of architecture
Authors: Butko Daniel
Published: October 2011

Architects usually place primary focus on the physical nature of materials and the aesthetic qualities of how those various materials are assembled. Although visual appeal is quite valuable when creating the built environment and specific inhabitable space(s), attention to sound is also vital in making a project successful for its intended use and daily occupants. Third year architecture students at the University of Oklahoma were tasked with a series of analytical studies and experiments that focused on the auditory nature of the built environment. This served as a precursor to the semester design project. The students spent time listening and discovering what sounds and noises were present within various functions. Each student categorized their individual findings of analyzed space into three classifications: (1) What sounds and/or frequencies they deemed successful/helpful to the intended use, (2) What sounds and/or frequencies they deemed unsuccessful/hindrance to the intended use, and (3) What additional sounds or noises they believe could have supported the intended use. The results were presented in class, discussed among the entire group, and ultimately fueled the students' future design decisions. This paper focuses on how simple analytical auditory studies can alter the overall design process to include architectural acoustics.
A survey of residential “speaking tubes.”
Authors: Elliot William J. , Foulkes John T.
Published: October 2011

The speech transmission index is examined for a system of “speaking tubes” within a home in the Avon Hill neighborhood in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Designed in 1888 by noted Boston architects Henry Hartwell and William C. Richardson, the Shingle Style home was both wired for electricity and outfitted with piping for gas. An electronic paging system was used to summon servants, but when aural communication was necessary, the speaking tube system was used for inter-floor communication. This paper examines the measured STI for the speaking tubes which remain in the home within the context of simple passive waveguide sound propagation. The paper also provides a quantitative evaluation of this pre-electroacoustic technology as it appeared in several fashionable homes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Sound metric design based on psychological and physiological acoustics for the analysis of automotive sound
Authors: Lee Young Joon , Park Hong Sug , Lee Sang Kwon
Published: October 2011

This paper presents the correlation between psychological and physiological acoustics for the automotive sound. The research purpose of this paper is to evaluate the sound quality of interior sound of a passenger car based human sensibility. The conventional method for the objective evaluation of sound quality is to use the only sound metrics based on psychological acoustics. This method used not only psychological acoustics, but also physiological acoustics. For this work, the sounds of five premium passenger cars are used for the subjective evaluation. The correlation between this subjective rating and sound metrics based on psychological acoustics is calculated. Finally, the correlated sound metric is used for calculating the correlation between sound metric and the electron cephalogram signal measured on the brain. Throughout these results, the new evaluation system for the sound quality on interior sound of a passenger car has been developed.
Evaluating the potential spatial extent of chronic noise exposures of sufficient magnitude to raise concerns of wildlife impacts
Authors: Fristrup Kurt M.
Published: October 2011

Noise is probably the fastest growing pollutant in the United States. Traffic levels for many forms of transportation and recreation are increasing in much faster rates than population size. The consequences of chronic noise exposure for natural ecosystems are numerous and potentially severe. Decreases in pairing success, recruitment, population density, and community diversity have been documented for a variety of taxa. This presentation provide a capsule summary of documented biological impacts. These findings will be used to interpret the results from acoustical monitoring in a variety of National Park units, as well as predictions from noise models.
Endangered Stephen's kangaroo rats respond to road noise with footdrumming
Authors: Shier Debra M. , Lea Amanda J. , Owen Megan A.
Published: October 2011

On-road vehicles have become a pervasive source of low frequency noise in both urban and protected areas. Because many species rely on low-frequency signals to communicate, they are likely vulnerable to signal masking and other adverse effects of road noise exposure. We recorded and quantified both road noise and low frequency footdrumming signals from endangered Stephen's kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi; SKR), and found the two signals to overlap extensively. We then played back footdrumming overlaid with experimental (road noise), as well as positive (crickets) and negative control (no noise) sounds to SKR. SKR showed no response to footdrumming playbacks overlaid with road noise, suggesting that noise may mask conspecific signals. Furthermore, playbacks of road noise alone provoked similar behavioral responses to those of footdrumming controls. It appears that road noise itself may mimic footdrumming and prompt a false response in SKR. Therefore, anthropogenic noise may not only mask signaling, it may also function as a deceptive signal to wildlife. For SKR, the combined effects of communication disruption and signal deception may further tax already endangered populations. Road margins serve as dispersal corridors and refugia for SKR, yet these areas may function as ecological traps if anthropogenic noise negatively affects populations.
Seasonal presence of ringed, ribbon, and bearded seal vocalizations in the Chukchi Sea north of Barrow, Alaska
Authors: Jones Joshua M. , Roth Ethan , Thayre Bruce J. , Sia Ian , Mahoney Michael , Zeller Clarissa , Johnson Malorie , Jackson Christine , Kitka Kyle , Pickett Daniel , Small Robert , Gentes Zoe , Wiggins Sean , Hildebrand John
Published: October 2011

Long-term autonomous acoustic recordings were collected between September and June from 2006 through 2009 in the Northeastern Chukchi Sea along the continental slope 120 km north of Barrow, Alaska. These recordings were analyzed for the presence of vocalizations of ringed seals (Phoca hispida), ribbon seals (Histrophoca fasciata), and bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus). We present detailed descriptions of the acoustic repertoire of each species in addition to three-year time series of seal vocalizations and mean daily sea ice concentration. Ringed seal vocalizations are present throughout each winter and spring, indicating that they both overwinter and breed in offshore pack ice. Ribbon seal calls occur only during the open water period in 2008, but their acoustic behavior is more varied than previously described. Bearded seal vocalizations closely match well-documented calls recorded offshore near Point Barrow but have shorter duration and smaller frequency range, suggesting that demographic or behavioral differences related to breeding habitat selection may exist within the population. Bearded seal calls peak during the breeding season from March through June, but also occur in December and January annually. These long-term autonomous recordings provide details of seasonal distribution and behavior of Arctic seals that previously have not been possible to observe with other methods.
Characterizing the vocalizations of North Atlantic right whales (NARWs) in Florida, with emphasis on mother-calf pairs
Authors: Gerstein Edmund , Hain James , Moir James , McCulloch Stephen
Published: October 2011

The repertoire of calls, frequency of occurrence with respect to social composition, and ontogeny of vocal learning is being investigated for NARWs in their southeastern critical habitat of Florida. Small synchronized, GPS-instrumented, digital autonomous recording packages (DARPs) are deployed in the vicinity of photo-identified individuals, mother-calf pairs, and groups. The unobtrusive DARP buoys enable the recording of relatively rare, low-intensity vocal exchanges between mothers and calves. We hypothesize that it may be advantageous to be silent or to call softly to avoid predators or harassment by males in the area. These mother-calf exchanges could also be related to early developmental aspects of vocal communication. Site-specific bathymetry and active propagation measurements are conducted with vertical arrays to estimate source levels, and ranges of detection. Preliminary data indicate that exemplar (up-calls) recorded in northern habitats and used for training detection algorithms for passive auto-detection buoys are likely not appropriate for Florida waters. Social demographics, associated behavior, along with water depth and environmental parameters contribute to differences in call rates, types, source levels and respective propagation characteristics between the southeastern and northern habitats. Critical acoustic data required for selecting more appropriate calls for effective DCL algorithms in Florida waters are currently being collected.