bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rarity Status Assessments of Bugseeds (Amaranthaceae: Corispermum) in Manitoba
Authors: Robson Diana Bizecki
Published: January 2017

To provide a more accurate assessment of the rarity of the plant genus Corispermum (Amaranthaceae), commonly known as bugseeds, in Manitoba, I undertook a survey of all historical populations. In total, 68 quarter sections were selected for presence/absence surveys; 37 of them contained at least one species of bugseed. Only 10 of the 20 historical populations in Manitoba were relocated. The total estimated size of known bugseed populations in Manitoba in 2010-2011 was approximately 9,820 to 13,060 individuals. American Bugseed (C. americanum (Nutt.) Nutt. var. americanum) is the most abundant and widespread of the bugseeds in Manitoba, followed by Hairy Bugseed (C. villosum Rydb.). There is only one population of Hooker’s Bugseed (C. hookeri Mosyakin var. hookeri) in the province. Pallas’ Bugseed (C. pallasii Steven) was not relocated and should probably be considered extirpated in Manitoba. The habitats at 61% of the localities where bugseeds were confirmed are anthropogenically disturbed, the most common habitat being roadsides with exposed bare sand. Of the localities where bugseeds were not relocated, 67% occurred in natural sandy areas, suggesting that dune stabilization is a major threat to the continuing persistence of these species.
Communal Oviposition in the Northern Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineata) in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
Authors: LeGros David L.
Published: January 2017

While surveying a stream for amphibians in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada, I discovered a clutch of Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineata) eggs on the underside of a partially submerged rock. I counted 165 eggs and measured them using ImageJ from a digital photograph. The quantity of eggs is far greater than any known clutch size for this species, and it was likely deposited by more than one female. This is the first report of communal oviposition in this species in Canada.
Body Condition and Survival of Vagrant Long-billed Murrelets, Brachyramphus perdix, in North America
Authors: Sealy Spencer G. , Carter Harry R.
Published: January 2017

From 1979 through 2009, 81 records of long-distance vagrancy in the Long-billed Murrelet (Brachyramphus perdix) in North America south of Alaska were examined to assess body condition and survival after first observation. Sixty-one records were of live birds, of which 38 (62.3%) were discovered at sea along the west coast of North America, 18 (29.5%) were encountered inland, and 5 (8.2%) were encountered along the Atlantic coast. Fifteen of the 20 individuals salvaged (19 adults, 1 juvenile) were discovered on lake shores (75.0%) and the other 5 (25.0%) on marine coasts; 85.0% were dead when initially found (15 dead, 2 shot), and 3 (15.0%) were moribund (2 died within one day, 1 later released). Of 10 sexed individuals, 5 were adult males, 4 were adult females, and 1 was a juvenile female. Eight of 10 murrelets observed foraging were diving on lakes, but 2 others surfaced with fish; two species of common freshwater fish were removed from stomachs of 2 birds shot by hunters. Most birds (72.1%, n = 61) disappeared after one observation, which suggests survival and moving on; one bird stayed at the same location for at least 25 days before disappearing. Dead or dying Long-billed Murrelets found on shorelines of fresh water may have been too emaciated to regain lost mass after arrival—they weighed less than those shot, presumably because they were not able to locate prey or too weak to capture it. Survival for weeks or longer on freshwater stopover sites better explains how Long-billed Murrelets move across North America, with some reaching the Atlantic Ocean. Long-surviving vagrants may establish a new breeding population of Long-billed Murrelet on the west coast of North America.
Use of a Dorsal Radio-Transmitter Implant in American Badgers, Taxidea taxus
Authors: Proulx Gilbert , MacKenzie Neil
Published: January 2017

We investigated the use of a dorsally implanted radio-transmitter in four American Badgers (Taxidea taxus) in southwestern Saskatchewan. The dorsal radio-transmitter did not appear to affect the health or behaviour of the animals. When the antenna was stretched out subcutaneously along the animal’s back, the signal could be received from about 1 km away when the animal was above ground and from 750 m away when it was in the den. The dorsal implantation of radio-transmitters is a promising technique for the study of the movements of American Badgers.
A Significant Range Extension for the Eastern Ribbonsnake, Thamnophis sauritus, in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Gilhen John , Jones Alice , McNeil Jeffie , Tanner Arthur W.
Published: January 2017

In Nova Scotia the threatened Northern Ribbonsnake, Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis, (the northern subspecies of the Eastern Ribbonsnake, T. sauritus) (Crother 2008) is known from localities in only Queens and Lunenburg counties, where it was first discovered in 1950. Many new localities, mostly in the headwaters of the Mersey River and the Medway River watersheds have been added since 2002, and Seven Mile Lake (in the West La Have River watershed) was added to the distribution in 2005. We add two localities to the distribution of the Northern Ribbonsnake in the previously unreported Petite Rivière watershed, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia.
A Direct Comparison of Enclosed Track Plates and Remote Cameras in Detecting Fishers, Martes pennanti, in North Dakota
Authors: Loughry Steven C. , Triska Maggie D. , Fecske Dorothy M. , Serfass Thomas L.
Published: January 2017

Fishers (Martes pennanti) historically were reported to occupy forested areas of northeastern North Dakota, but the population was presumed extirpated during the 1900s as a result of overtrapping. Recently (≤15 years), Fishers have been recolonizing the state, and there is increasing interest in developing approaches for monitoring the population. During the period June–August 2008, we compared the efficacy of remote cameras and enclosed track plates in detecting Fishers in riparian forest along portions of the drainage basin of the Red River of the North in eastern North Dakota. We monitored 122 scent stations, each composed of both detection devices, with the remote camera positioned to monitor the entrance of the enclosed track plate. Fishers were detected at 40 of the 122 scent stations (32.8%) distributed along approximately 790 km of riparian forest. Among those 40 stations, Fishers were detected by both camera and track plate at 28 stations (70.0%), by camera only at 9 stations (22.5%), and on track plates only at 3 stations (7.5%). Overall, Fishers were detected 37 times by camera (92.5%) and 31 times on a track plate (77.5%). From photographic evidence at the 37 stations where Fishers were detected by camera, we determined that the average latency to initial detection was 4.8 days (SE 0.3, range 1–8). Among the 37 stations where Fishers were detected by camera, detections most frequently occurred on one (27 sites) (73.0%) or two days (7 sites) (19.0%) of a detection period.
Spring Migratory Pathways and Migration Chronology of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis interior) Wintering at the Santee National Wildlife Refuge, South Carolina
Authors: Giles Molly M. , Jodice Patrick G. R. , Baldwin Robert F. , Stanton John D. , Epstein Marc
Published: January 2017

We assessed the migratory pathways, migration chronology, and breeding ground affiliation of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis interior) that winter in and adjacent to the Santee National Wildlife Refuge in Summerton, South Carolina, United States. Satellite transmitters were fitted to eight Canada Geese at Santee National Wildlife Refuge during the winter of 2009–2010. Canada Geese departed Santee National Wildlife Refuge between 5 and 7 March 2010. Six Canada Geese followed a route that included stopovers in northeastern North Carolina and western New York, with three of those birds completing spring migration to breeding grounds associated with the Atlantic Population (AP). The mean distance between stopover sites along this route was 417 km, the mean total migration distance was 2838 km, and the Canada Geese arrived on AP breeding grounds on the eastern shore of Hudson Bay between 20 and 24 May 2010. Two Canada Geese followed a different route from that described above, with stopovers in northeastern Ohio, prior to arriving on the breeding grounds on 9 June 2010. Mean distance between stopover sites was 402 and 365 km for these two birds, and total migration distance was 4020 and 3650 km. These data represent the first efforts to track migratory Canada Geese from the southernmost extent of their current wintering range in the Atlantic Flyway. We did not track any Canada Geese to breeding grounds associated with the Southern James Bay Population. Caution should be used in the interpretation of this finding, however, because of the small sample size. We demonstrated that migratory Canada Geese wintering in South Carolina use at least two migratory pathways and that an affiliation with the Atlantic Population breeding ground exists.
The Ocean Pout, Zoarces americanus, and the Ocean Sunfish, Mola mola: Additions to the Marine Ichthyofauna of the Lower Saint John River System, New Brunswick, with a Summary of Marine Fish Reported from the Estuary
Authors: McAlpine Donald F.
Published: January 2017

Recent records for the Ocean Pout, Zoarces americanus (collected 11 February 2011), and the Ocean Sunfish, Mola mola (photograph taken 24 June 2012), in the lower Saint John River system, New Brunswick, add to the list of marine fishes reported from this oceanographically unique estuary system. A total of 62 species of strictly freshwater, anadromous, catadromous, and marine fishes have now been recorded in the Saint John River system, with 49 of these in the Saint John River sensu stricto. The Acadian Redfish, Sebastes faciatus, a species assessed as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, appears to be among these. While strictly marine fishes may contribute relatively little to the overall biomass of fishes in the Saint John River system, marine species account for 30.6% of the biodiversity of fishes in the river to date. This suggests that marine fishes may be a more significant component of the ichthyofauna of the lower Saint John River system than is generally recognized.
First Record of the Bee Melitta americana (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Melittidae) for Quebec and Canada
Authors: Payette André
Published: January 2017

The first record of the bee Melitta americana (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Melittidae) for the province of Quebec and for Canada is reported. Female bees were found foraging on pollen and nectar on flowers of the Large Cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton (Ericaceae), in a cultivated Large Cranberry field in the Centre-du-Québec region.Première mention de l’abeille Melitta americana (Smith) (Hyménoptères : Mélittides) pour la province du Québec et pour le Canada. Les abeilles femelles ont été observées en train de butiner du pollen et du nectar sur les fleurs de canneberges à gros fruits, Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton (Éricacées), dans une culture commerciale de canneberges dans la région du Centre-du-Québec.
Plant Climbing in the Northern Two-lined Salamander, Eurycea bislineata, in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario
Authors: LeGros David L.
Published: January 2017

Lungless salamanders (Plethodontidae) are often active on the surface on rainy evenings, and some species may even climb vegetation in search of prey. Here I report the first investigation of plant climbing in the Northern Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineata). Surveys were carried out along Bat Lake Creek in Algonquin Provincial Park over four rainy nights in summer 2007 for Northern Two-lined Salamanders. I compared the numbers of Northern Two-lined Salamanders foraging on the ground with those climbing on plants, and over half of the Northern Two-lined Salamanders were climbing plants. This behaviour may provide the Northern Two-lined Salamander with access to an underutilized food source, and plants may represent an additional foraging habitat for this species.
Relative abundance of the Prairie Long-tailed Weasel (Mustela frenata longicauda) in southwestern Alberta
Authors: Hornbeck Garry E. , Soprovich Dan
Published: January 2017

Prairie Long-tailed Weasels (Mustela frenata longicauda) were live-trapped during fall 2005, 2006, and 2007 at Pine Coulee Reservoir and during fall 2005, 2008, and 2010 at Twin Valley Reservoir in southwestern Alberta. Our objective was to estimate the relative abundance of the Long-tailed Weasel and to estimate the relative abundance of small mammal prey. Body size and capture rates are reported for Long-tailed Weasels, and we report capture rates of small mammals. Annual capture rates for Long-tailed Weasels at Pine Coulee Reservoir were 0.44, 0.41, and 0.50 individuals per 100 corrected trap-nights (0.42, 0.38, and 0.48 individuals/100 trap-nights) in 2005, 2006, and 2007, respectively. No Long-tailed Weasels were captured at Twin Valley Reservoir. The probability of capturing zero Long-tailed Weasels at Twin Valley Reservoir was very low, assuming a true capture probability equivalent to that observed at Pine Coulee Reservoir. Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) were the most abundant small mammals captured in both project areas. Few shrews (Sorex spp.) and voles (Microtus spp.) were captured in either area.
War of the wasps: is Diadegma insulare or Microplitis plutellae a more effective parasitoid of the Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella?
Authors: Young Adamo
Published: January 2017

Parasitism levels by Diadegma insulare (Muesebeck) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) and Microplitis plutellae (Haliday) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) at various densities of their host, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), were assessed. Cages with densities of 10 hosts, 20 hosts, and 40 hosts were set up, with the cage volume (40 500 cm3) and number of wasps (2 females) remaining constant. The host populations were also exposed to the wasps for two different exposure times: 1 day and 3 days. The study showed that D. insulare was a better parasitoid overall, achieving a level of parasitism equal to or higher than M. plutellae at all densities. Microplitis plutellae performed best at a lower host density (76% ± 9% of 10 hosts vs. 43% ± 3% of 40 hosts). Diadegma insulare performed similarly at all densities tested (75% ± 5% of 10 hosts, 83% ± 4% of 20 hosts, and 79% ± 6% of 40 hosts). This suggests that D. insulare may be the better parasitoid overall and should be applied in severe, large-scale infestations, while M. plutellae may be better for small-scale infestations.
First records of a Plesiosaurian (Reptilia: Sauropterygia) and an Ichthyosaur (Reptilia: Ichthyosauria) from Yukon, Canada
Authors: Campbell James A. , Schröder-Adams Claudia J. , Haggart James W. , Drucken-Miller Patrick S. , Ryan Michael J. , Zazula Grant D.
Published: January 2017

An isolated centrum collected ex situ from marine shales of the Lower Cretaceous (Albian) Arctic Red Formation along the Road River represents the first documented occurrence of a plesiosaurian from Yukon. This centrum represents the northernmost occurrence of plesiosaurians in the Western Interior Sea of North America prior to the establishment of the first continuous seaway (Western Interior Seaway) connecting the Boreal and Tethyan seas. Additionally, this centrum is potentially the second-oldest elasmosaurid specimen known from North America. A second centrum, collected along the Beaver River, is likely derived from the Lower Cretaceous (Lower Albian) Garbutt Formation exposed farther upstream. It represents the first report of an ichthyosaur from Yukon. Additionally, six associated ribs collected from the Arctic Red Formation along the Peel River may also belong to a marine reptile; however, poor preservation of these ribs prevents a definitive taxonomic assignment.
Lichen biodiversity and conservation status in the Copeland Forest Resources Management Area: a lichen-rich second-growth forest in southern Ontario
Authors: McMullin R. Troy , Lendemer James C.
Published: January 2017

Southern Ontario is the most densely populated region in Canada. As a result, ubanization, industrialization, and agriculture are extensive. Few ecosystems in the region have been unaltered, and second-growth forests now dominate the remaining natural landscape. To better understand the lichen diversity in these second-growth forests, we inventoried 24 distinct vegetation communites in the Copeland Forest Resources Management Area (1780 ha) located between Barrie and Orillia in September and October 2011, recording 154 species in 79 genera. One species, Lecidea sarcogynoides, was collected for the first time in Canada and is reported for the first time in North America; one additional species, Micarea micrococca, was collected for the first time in Ontario and is reported for the first time in Canada; three species that have previously been collected in Ontario — Bellemerea cinereorufescens, Phlyctis speirea, and Xanthoparmelia angustiphylla — are reported for the first time in the province; and Candelariella lutella was collected and is reported for the second time in Ontario and the third time in Canada. In addition, six species with a provincial status rank of S1 (critically imperilled) or S2 (imperilled) were located: Arthonia byssacea, Arthonia ruana, Chaenothecopsis pusiola, Cresponea chloroconia, Pachyphiale fagicola, and Placynthiella uliginosa. Our results show that second-growth forests can be important refugia for lichen diversity. The majority of the lichen diversity within the Copeland Forest was contained in a small number of sites (6 of 24). This suggests that management strategies should integrate lichen diversity by targeting species-rich areas. We found that sites with a high variation in: canopy closure, tree species, tree age, moisture, and the presence of snags had the highest lichen diversity. Forest managers in southern Ontario can use our results to identify species-rich areas on their properties.
First records of the Northern Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis) from Labrador and summer distribution records and biology of Little Brown Bats (Myotis lucifugus) in southern Labrador
Authors: Broders Hugh G. , Burns Lynne E. , McCarthy Sara C.
Published: January 2017

We conducted the first regional survey of bats in Labrador (Newfoundland and Labrador) to provide information on the distribution and biology of bats in this region. Our approach was to locate maternity roosts of Myotis lucifugus (Little Brown Bat) via word of mouth and then capture Little Brown Bats as they emerged from their day-roosts. We also surveyed for free-flying forest-dwelling bats using mist nets and a harp trap along forested trails and roads in southern Labrador. We captured 355 M. lucifugus at nine maternity roosts and one non-reproductive adult female M. lucifugus at a forested site. We captured two adult male Myotis septentrionalis (Northern Myotis) at two of the three forested sites (Gull Island and Grand Lake Road). These are the first confirmed records of this species from Labrador. Maternity roosts of M. lucifugus often had several hundred individuals. The proportion of female M. lucifugus captured at a roost that were either pregnant or lactating ranged from 35% to 96%; the estimated average date of parturition in 2012 was 10 July.
Characteristics of Barred Owl (Strix varia) nest sites in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Whiklo Todd M. , Duncan James R.
Published: January 2017

During 2009 and 2010, nine Barred Owl (Strix varia) nest sites were located in Manitoba, Canada, and data on nest trees, nest structure, and nest site habitat were collected. Nests were located in a variety of tree species, including Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera), Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera), Trembling Aspen (Populus tremuloides) and Burr Oak (Quercus macrocarpa). All nests were in tree cavities, and the majority of nests were in dead trees (67%) and had lateral openings (67%). Habitat surrounding nest trees and estimated canopy cover were highly variable. Diameter at breast height of nest trees, cavity width, and cavity depth were consistent and were determined to be the most reliable indicators of nest suitability for breeding Barred Owls. We conclude that the distribution of nesting Barred Owls is influenced more by availability of suitable nest sites than by nest tree species or nest site habitat.
Asynchronous breeding and variable embryonic development period in the threatened Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens) in the Cypress Hills, Alberta, Canada: conservation and management implications
Authors: Randall Lea A. , Chalmers Lynne D. , Moehrenschlager Axel , Russell Anthony P.
Published: January 2017

Understanding breeding phenology is critical for establishing monitoring strategies, comprehending population dynamics, and developing conservation actions for at-risk species, such as the Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens). The timing of spawning and hatching in the Northern Leopard Frog may be highly variable depending on regional environmental conditions, which can make establishing the timing of surveys difficult. In spring 2006, eggs were laid over 30 days (24 April to 23 May) and hatching occurred over 2 weeks (14–28 May) at three neighbouring ponds in Cypress Hills, Alberta, Canada. Although spawning occurred over a month, all eggs hatched within a 2-week period, indicating variable embryo development rate. Among 26 egg masses, eggs laid later in the season developed approximately four times faster than those laid earlier, and Akaike information criterion-ranked models suggested that both Julian date and water temperature were important predictors of embryo development rate: later spawning date and warmer water were associated with faster rates. Some egg masses survived colder temperatures than previously reported for this species. Asynchronous breeding and variable development rates reveal the need to conduct multiple surveys over the breeding season, even within a small geographic area, to document reliably the presence of egg masses and identify breeding habitat. Identification of key breeding habitat is necessary to mitigate human-caused disturbances of such regionally imperiled species.
Effectiveness of stream sampling methods in capturing non-native Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) in Ontario
Authors: Reid Scott M. , Devlin Jane
Published: January 2017

Habitat alteration and species introductions have contributed to the decline of native crayfish in Ontario. although lake populations of crayfish in Ontario are monitored, there is no corresponding program for streams. We used removal-based sampling to evaluate the efficacy of three sampling techniques (backpack electrofishing, hand capture, and seining) to characterize native and non-native crayfish populations in six streams in the Kawartha lakes region and five streams in the Muskoka/Haliburton lakes region. all types were effective at detecting non-native Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus). Rusty Crayfish were collected from 65% of samples, constituted 90% of the total catch, and were the only species present in 30% of streams. Compared with other methods, electrofishing was more likely to capture additional crayfish species. Removal-based sampling was not a reliable approach for estimating capture probability and population size. Failure of the removal model was due to increases in the number of crayfish captured after the first pass or too few individuals collected. Mean capture probabilities for electrofishing (0.30) and hand capture (0.31) did not result in reliable population estimates. Compared with seining, electrofishing and hand capture resulted in more sexually active males (fewer sexually inactive males) and more small (< 25 mm carapace length) individuals. For each method, there were differences in capture probability among length classes. a combination of electrofishing and seining (with multiple passes) would maximize species detection, permit sampling of a range of habitat types, and be easily integrated into existing stream fish surveys.
Decline in breeding of the Great Black-backed Gull, Larus marinus, and the Herring Gull, L. argentatus, on Boot Island, Nova Scotia, 1986 to 2010
Authors: MacKinnon Colin M. , Kennedy Andrew C.
Published: January 2017

For over 50 years, Boot Island, Nova Scotia, has supported a significant mixed bird colony: Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), Herring Gull (L. argentatus), Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias), and Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus). In 2002, the largest Great Black-backed Gull colony in Canada was located there. Over the last quarter century, the Herring Gull colony has shown a dramatic and near-linear decrease from 727 nests in 1986 to 67 in 2000; in 2010, only two nests remained. The number of Great Black-backed Gull nests has also declined by 44%, from 1467 nests in 1992 to 819 in 2010. These reductions may be partly attributed to factors external to the colony, such as changes in regional fisheries and better landfill management. However, a more immediate problem may be nest predation and disturbance by American Mink (Neovison vison), Raccoon (Procyon lotor), Coyote (Canis latrans), and Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus).
The use of ketamine-xylazine and ketamine-medetomidine with and without their antagonists, yohimbine and atipamezole hydrochloride to immobilize Raccoons (Procyon lotor) in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Allan Mike R.
Published: January 2017

This study was undertaken to identify a drug combination that provided a suitable plane of anesthesia and pain suppression and reduced recovery time for minor surgical procedures in raccoons. In fall 2004, 40 wild Raccoons (Procyon lotor) were chemically immobilized using ketamine hydrochloride combined with either xylazine or medetomidine hydrochloride. Immobilizing treatments within and between drug types were compared in terms of induction, arousal and recovery times. The ketamine-xylazine (KX) group (n = 20) was given a combination of 20 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride and 2 mg/kg xylazine hydrochloride by body weight, and the effects on induction, arousal and recovery time were recorded with and without the antagonist yohimbine hydrochloride. The ketamine-medetomidine (KM) group (n = 20) was given a combination of 5 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride and 0.05 mg/kg medetomidine hydrochloride by body weight, and induction, arousal and recovery times were recorded with and without the use of the antagonist atipamezole hydrochloride. Administration of yohimbine hydrochloride at 0.1 mg/kg body weight to the KX group and atipamezole hydrochloride at 0.25 mg/kg body weight to the KM group produced considerably shorter arousal and recovery times in the KM group (P = 0.016). Mean arousal and recovery time with standard deviations ± ( SD ) for the KX group with yohimbine hydrochloride antagonist were 36.10 ± 10.69 and 94.2 ± 23.18 minutes; for the KM group with atipamezole hydrochloride antagonist, they were 7.95 ± 3.94 and 65.58 ± 14.75 respectively. At these doses, the KM combination reversed with atipamezole hydrochloride significantly reduced arousal and recovery times and resulted in a quality of anesthesia that would allow safe tooth and blood extraction in Raccoons.
Spatial and temporal variation in fish assemblages in three small unpolluted estuarine rivers and associated lagoons in Kouchibouguac National Park, southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada
Authors: Bremner Amanda M. , Methven D. A. , Munkittrick Kelly R. , Frego Katherine A.
Published: January 2017

Estuaries have among the highest primary production rates of ocean waters and provide essential habitat for many organisms. Recognition of the need to conserve these critical habitats is coupled with the need for baseline data to allow assessment of ecosystem changes. This study compares natural variations in, and correlations between, the composition of fish assemblages and environmental factors at several sites over two years in three rivers emptying into estuaries in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada. Fish diversity and abundance were determined by beach seining and related to water temperature, salinity, substrate, and vegetation. From May to September 2000 (14 sites) and May to August 2001 (15 sites), 20 fish species were collected, seven of which accounted for 98% of the total catch. The dominant species, Mummichog (Fundulus heteroclitus), represented 44% of the catch. Its abundance and that of the other dominant species — Threespine Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) 16%, Blackspotted Stickleback (G. wheatlandi) 13%, Banded Killifish (F. diaphanus) 12%, Fourspine Stickleback (Apeltes quadracus) 7%, Atlantic Silverside (Menidia menidia) 4%, and Ninespine Stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) 2% — differed significantly both spatially and temporally. Multidimensional scaling analysis showed a spatial gradient in abundance from upstream to lagoon sites and a temporal gradient from spring to fall. Upstream sites were low in salinity and had a higher organic content and a higher proportion of silt–clay in the sediment. Variation within fish populations was related to site and seasonal changes in environmental conditions and species’ tolerance of water temperature, salinity, vegetation coverage, and fine sediments.
New avian breeding records for Igloolik Island, Nunavut
Authors: Lecomte Nicolas , Giroux Marie-Andrée
Published: January 2017

New breeding records for three tundra nesting species were documented on the Arctic island of Igloolik (Nunavut, Canada). The species are the Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii), the Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), and the Pectoral Sandpiper (Calidris melanotos). These records refine their breeding range in the Canadian Arctic archipelago, while highlighting changes in detected bird communities at specific locations through time.
New light on the origins of the Ottawa Field-Naturalists’ Club
Authors: Boswell Randy
Published: January 2017

The history of the Ottawa Field-Naturalists’ Club (OFNC) is a subject of considerable interest given the organization’s great longevity and significant influence on the evolution of Canadian science and conservation. A probe of 19th-century Ottawa newspapers has led to the proper identification of a little known precursor organization — the “Ottawa Naturalists’ Field Club” — that appears to have significantly strengthened a weak link in the otherwise unbroken chain of natural history investigation in Ottawa reaching back to the pre-Confederation era. This and additional findings suggest that Dr. Edward Van Cortlandt, while duly recognized as an important pioneer naturalist, played an even greater role than generally understood in the emergence of a robust natural history tradition in Canada’s capital and the eventual creation of the OFNC.
Distribution and use of brood-rearing and moulting sites of the Atlantic population of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) in Nunavik, Quebec
Authors: Cotter Richard C.
Published: January 2017

The Atlantic population of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) nests in the coastal lowlands of eastern Hudson Bay and southwestern Ungava Bay in Nunavik, Quebec. Although many aspects of the nesting ecology of this and other northern populations of Canada Geese have been studied and published, there is a paucity of information on the use of brood-rearing and moulting sites. Based on 18 years of band and recapture data from an ongoing banding program, this paper presents the distribution of brood-rearing and moulting sites and the use of these sites over time. Along Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay, the most important brood-rearing and moulting areas are the stretch of coastal lowlands between the Mariet River and Shallow Bay and between Rivière aux Feuilles and Virgin Lake, respectively. Of all adult geese captured during the banding program (n = 41 924), 7.5% (standard error [SE] 0.13%) were recaptures, that is, birds that had previously been caught and banded; annual recapture rates ranged from 5.1% to 11.4%. The mean and median distances between the site of first recapture and the original site of capture were 4.3 km (SE 0.22 km) and 1.5 km, respectively. Juveniles moved, on average, 5.4 km farther than adults and males moved 1.4 km farther than females. Among geese banded as juveniles, males moved twice as far as females: 11.5 km versus 5.7 km.
Behaviour and nesting ecology of Appalachian Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus)
Authors: Smith Brian W. , Tri Andrew N. , Dobony Chris A. , Edwards John W. , Wood Petra Bohall
Published: January 2017

The substantial decline of Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus) in the southern Appalachian Mountains has been attributed in part to poor recruitment with possible links to nesting ecology. However, despite extensive research, the incubation ecology of Ruffed Grouse remains poorly understood. During 1999–2001 in West Virginia, we used videography of nesting female Ruffed Grouse to (1) quantify incubation constancy (minutes on the nest/minutes recorded) and nest survival during incubation, (2) determine whether incubation constancy predicts hatch success (proportion of eggs hatched per clutch), (3) determine the effect of the onset of laying on incubation constancy and hatch success, and (4) quantify nest visitors and depredation. Females spent about 96% of the recorded time incubating their clutches. Average incubation time per day increased by 1 h between day 1 and day 24 of incubation. Females generally left their nests twice daily, once in the morning between 0700 and 1000 for 31.7 ± 2.4 minutes (standard error) and again in the evening between 1600 and 1800 for 33.6 ± 1.5 minutes. Daily survival of nests (99.3 ± 0.4%) and nest survival for the incubation period (84.9 ± 9.3%) were high. Hatch success (the proportion of eggs that hatched among nests where at least one hatched) was high: 94.9 ± 0.02%. We found no relation between incubation constancy and hatch success. We recorded American Black Bear (Ursus americanus), Raccoon (Procyon lotor), and Long-tailed Weasel (Mustela frenata) as nest predators.
Erratum: Apparent extirpation of prey fish communities following the introduction of northern pike (Esox lucius) (2015) 129(2):165-173
Authors: Nicholson Michele E. , Rennie Michael D. , Mills Kenneth H.
Published: January 2017

There was a justification error in Table 2.
Movements of the Eastern Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis sauritus) in Nova Scotia
Authors: Imlay T. L. , Saroli J. , Herman T. B. , Mockford S. W.
Published: January 2017

The disjunct Eastern Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis sauritus) population in southwest Nova Scotia is listed as “threatened” by the committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. A study of the movements of the species at two lakeshore locations known to support a high density of Eastern Ribbonsnakes was undertaken in 2007 and 2008. Average seasonal movements at both sites ranged from 17 m to 84 m for juvenile snakes and 21 m to 130 m for adults; one neonate was recaptured during the study after travelling 32 m. The maximum distance travelled by an individual snake was 391 m in one season. The best-fit model to explain differences in daily movement patterns included year (P = 0.041), indicating that there is annual variation in the movements of this species. Low recapture rates precluded accurate estimates of home-range size, which varied roughly from 0.16 ha to 0.78 ha. Both movements and home ranges were larger than previously documented in Nova Scotia, but maximum distances travelled were consistent with a previous study in Michigan. Most documented movements were along the lakeshore within contiguous, suitable habitat. More work is needed to understand the frequency of large movements and triggers that initiate movements, e.g., changes in water levels, habitat suitability, or prey availability.
Cloud Sponge, Aphrocallistes vests (Porifera: Hexactinellida), fragment healing and reattachment
Authors: Marliave Jeff
Published: January 2017

In May 2012, fragments of Cloud Sponge, Aphrocallistes vastus, that had been cut by fishing line were deposited in an array of boulders on the seabed near the parent sponge on the southwest shore of Hutt Island in Howe Sound near Vancouver, British Columbia. Open breaks in the transplanted fragments and parent sponge healed within 12 months. The fragments reattached to rock within 24 months. Previous observers of similar events reported no healing and death of damaged sponges. However, previous observations occurred during warm El Niño periods, which may be associated with higher stress leading to unsuccessful healing. In contrast, my current observations took place in cooler La Niña conditions, which may have promoted greater resilience and better healing.
Lack of Response to Olfactory Lures Among Mammals in Riparian Habitat in Southern Wisconsin
Authors: Jacques Ryan J. , Kapfer Joshua M. , Eshelman B. D.
Published: January 2017

Non-invasive mammal surveys often employ olfactory stimuli on the assumption that they will attract mammals and increase the success of monitoring projects. However, information on the effectiveness of scent lures is variable and often relies on data generated from mammal tracks or sign, which can be challenging to quantify. Therefore, we sought to determine whether certain olfactory stimuli are more effective than others at eliciting a response from mammals along riparian corridors in Southern Wisconsin, using camera traps to monitor response to four scents and a control of de-ionized water. We recorded the number of times each species responded as well as the length of time spent investigating scents (Muskrat gland, mink gland, Red fox urine, crayfish oil) and the control. We recorded 2812 passes by 16 mammal species during our 12-month study, with Virginia Opossum (Didelphis virginiana), Woodchuck (Marmota monax), Eastern Gray Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), Eastern Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger), Raccoon (Procyon lotor), Coyote (Canis latrans), and White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)observed on cameras most frequently. However, 72% of observations involved mammals passing through without investigating any scents or the control, and among the 28% of observations where mammals did investigate, we found no significant differences in their response to specific scents or the control or in response by season. Further analysis revealed no significant differences in the time mammals spent investigating individual scents or the control. The lack of response suggests that factors other than scent may have attracted wildlife to our stations. Although under some circumstances olfactory attractants may increase the level of response to monitoring stations, we suggest that attraction to our stations was largely a behavioural response to novel stimuli in the environment.
Harlequin Ducks (Histrionicus histrionicus) Scavenge Sea Urchin Fragments from Foraging Sea Otters (Enhydra lutris)
Authors: Rechsteiner Erin , Olson Angeleen
Published: January 2017

Foraging animals may risk association with potential predators to obtain otherwise inaccessible prey. We observed this strategy in wintering Harlequin Ducks (Histrionicus histrionicus) scavenging fragments of Red Sea Urchins (Mesocentrotus franciscanus) from foraging Sea Otters (Enhydra lutris) that were re-occupying an area from which they had been ecologically absent since about 1850. Harlequin Ducks, like other sea ducks, have not previously been reported scavenging from other birds or mammals. In British columbia, Red Sea Urchins have reached large sizes and densities since the removal of Sea Otter predators by the marine fur trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. Observations of Sea Otters and Harlequin Ducks were made in 4 areas, spanning a time gradient of Sea Otter occupation from 1 to 5 years. During 3 months of observations (December 2013 – February 2014), Harlequin Ducks were associated with foraging Sea Otters only at sites that were recently occupied by Sea Otters (≤ 2 months), where the proportion of urchins in Sea Otter diets was highest and where the ducks acquired urchin fragments from foraging Sea Otters. We suggest that Sea Otters re-occupying their historic range and consuming predominantly large Red Sea Urchins provide a temporarily available prey subsidy for Harlequin Ducks. Our observations document a novel effect of Sea Otters providing important prey supplementation to a marine bird when foraging in urchin-rich habitats, contributing to the overall role of Sea Otters as a keystone species.
Cream Pincushions (Scabiosa ochroleuca; Dipsacaceae), a New Established Exotic Plant in Eastern Canada
Authors: Layberry Ross A , Catling Paul
Published: January 2017

An established population of Cream Pincushions (Scabieuse jaune pâle, Scabiosa ochroleuca L.) in the Ottawa Valley approximately 16.5 km southeast of Arnprior is new to the flora of Ontario and eastern Canada. Other Canadian reports include a nonpersisting occurrence in Victoria, British Columbia, in 1908 and a recent occurrence from Keremeos in southcentral British Columbia. Identification and ecology of this species are discussed. In the Ottawa Valley, the plant occurs with introduced Heath Snail (Xerolenta obvia), which also originates in eastern Europe.
The History of Elk (Cervus canadensis) Restoration in Ontario
Authors: Hamr Josef , Mallory Frank F , Filion Ivan
Published: January 2017

Elk (Cervus canadensis) historically inhabited southern Quebec and central Ontario, but, by the early 1900s, the species was extirpated from this region. Attempts to re-establish an Elk population in Ontario during the first half of the 20th century had limited success. We reviewed historical documents, population census records, and a previous study pertaining to Elk reintroduced to Ontario in the early 1900s for clues to the cause(s) of their limited population growth. After an apparent rapid population increase in the 1940s followed by unregulated hunting during the subsequent 3 decades, Elk abundance in Ontario had not appreciably changed from 1970 to 1997, most likely because of the small founding population, unsustainable hunting, and accidental mortality. After the abolition of legal hunting in 1980, natural mortality appeared to be the main limiting factor. A limited sample of pregnancy and calf recruitment rates, body measurements, and physical condition parameters collected in 1993–1997, suggested that adults were healthy, reproducing successfully, and not limited by food availability; thus, it was concluded that remnant Elk populations could be augmented by introducing additional animals. A renewed Elk restoration effort, conducted from 1998 to 2001, imported 443 Elk from Elk Island national Park in Alberta to 4 release areas across central Ontario (Lake of the Woods, Lake Huron North Shore, Nipissing/French River, and Bancroft/North Hastings), resulting in a provincial population of about 800 Elk by 2013.
Selection of Agricultural Foods by Eastern Grey Squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis): Implications for a New Introduction in British Columbia
Authors: McAllister Jillian M , Law Valerie , Larsen Karl W
Published: January 2017

The recent introduction of the Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) into south-central British Columbia occurred within an important agricultural zone. As repercussions for the fruit-growing sector are currently unknown, we conducted trials with captive squirrels to understand the range of fruits consumed and their references. The squirrels consumed a portion of every food item offered, although the order in which the foods were used was inconsistent (with sharp contrasts between animals). Of the fruit types offered, apples appeared to be of greatest overall interest. However, seeds and nuts tended to be used first when presented in combination with fruit, suggesting opportunities to use these food types to deflect or remove Eastern Grey Squirrels from orchard crops. We caution that our results may not reflect the food items that free-ranging Eastern Grey Squirrels will target or disregard once densities in the introduced population become higher and the availability of food on a local scale begins to exert an effect.
Estimating the Age of Male Gray Wolves (Canis lupus) Using Baculum Measurements
Authors: Walleser Liza R , Crimmins Shawn M , Roberts Nathan M
Published: January 2017

Morphological characteristics of the bacula of 62 Gray Wolves (Canis lupus) harvested in Wisconsin were related to age estimates generated from cementum annuli analyses. Baculum analysis suggested that 47 of 62 wolves (75.8%) were correctly classified as the appropriate age category (pup, yearling, adult) assessed by cementum analyses; however, this success was limited for yearlings (53.5%) and adults (38.5%). Results could not corroborate future use of this approach for rapid aging of dead wolves. there remains a need for a wolf-aging technique that can be broadly implemented in a timely and cost-effectivemanner, while also preserving the inherent trophy value of an intact skull.
Separation efficiency of two waste polymer fibers for oily water treatment
Authors: Sokolovic Dunja , Vulic Tatjana , Kiralj Arpad , Hadnadjev-Kostic Milica , Sokolovic Srdjan
Published: January 2017

This work is concerned with the efficiency of two different waste polymeric
materials as the filter media in a laboratory-scale bed coalescer in the
horizontal fluid flow mode, operating in a steady-state regime. The applied
materials are: waste polyethylene terephthalate from textile industry, BA1
and waste polypropylene from carpet industry, PP. Using these compressible
fiber polymeric materials, high bed porosity (up to 98%) could be obtained.
The investigation was carried out over a wide range of working conditions.
Bed permeability was varied in the range from 0.18?10-9 to 5.389?10-9 m2.
Operating fluid velocity was varied from 19 to 80 m/h, until the critical
velocity was reached. Different oily wastewaters were used in the
experiments. Oily wastewater is defined as the oil-inwater emulsion model
prepared using mineral oils of different physico-chemical characteristics:
crude oil (A) from Vojvodina region, two vacuum distillation fractions (A1,
A4), and blended petroleum product with a high paraffinic content (P1). Both
applied polymeric materials, BA1 and PP, showed high separation efficiency
for treatment of all investigated oily wastewater. However, the BA1 material
showed higher efficiency in a wider range of bed permeability and
physico-chemical characteristics of oil.
Optimization of the flux values in multichannel ceramic membrane microfiltration of Baker`s yeast suspension
Authors: Milovic Nemanja , Jokic Aleksandar , Lukic Natasa , Grahovac Jovana , Dodic Jelena , Kiralj Arpad
Published: January 2017

The objective of this work was to estimate the effects of the operating
parameters on the baker's yeast microfiltration through multichannel ceramic
membrane. The selected parameters were transmembrane pressure, suspension
feed flow, and initial suspension concentration. In order to investigate the
influence and interaction effects of these parameters on the microfiltration
operation, two responses have been chosen: average permeate flux and flux
decline. The Box-Behnken experimental design and response surface methodology
was used for result processing and process optimization. According to the
obtained results, the most important parameter influencing permeate flux
during microfiltration is the initial suspension concentration. The maximum
average flux value was achieved at an initial concentration of 0.1 g/L,
pressure around 1.25 bars and a flow rate at 16 L/h.