bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Another Record of Foliage Roosting in the Little Brown Bat, Myotis lucifugus, in Canada
Authors: Huynh Howard M.
Published: January 2017

Another record of foliage-roosting behaviour in little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) is reported. This is only the second such observation ever recorded for this species and the first for Atlantic Canada.
Lone Wolf, Canis lupus, Displaced from a Kill by an Adult Black Bear, Ursus americanus, in Northeastern Alberta
Authors: Fremmerlid Mark , Latham A. David M.
Published: January 2017

Wolf (Canis lupus) packs are generally competitively dominant over Black Bears (Ursus americanus); however, less is known about lone Wolf-Black Bear interactions. We report an observation of a lone Wolf and an adult Black Bear at a kill made by the Wolf in northeastern Alberta. In this instance, the bear chased the Wolf from the kill site. Our observation supports the hypothesis that Wolf-Black Bear interactions may fit the pattern of asymmetrical interference competition when the interaction involves a lone Wolf rather than a pack.
Over-wintering Characteristics of West-Central Wisconsin Blanding's Turtles, Emydoidea blandingii
Authors: Thiel Richard P. , Wilder Timothy T.
Published: January 2017

Hibernation of adult-sized Blanding's Turtles was studied at two west-central Wisconsin sites between 1991 and 2008. Turtles arrived at hibernacula from mid September to early October, spending 126 to 216 days at these sites, and generally emerged in early April yearly. Sixty percent of females and 30 percent of males hibernated in natural over man-made structures as hibernation sites. Anoxic conditions near five hibernation sites ranged from 78 to 100 days. Shell temperatures of three turtles monitored over five winters remained at <1°C a mean of 2,274 hours each winter. Over the same period, four turtles' temperatures were between 0° and -1°C a mean of 302 hours. During the course of our study, hibernating west-central Wisconsin Blanding's Turtles demonstrated a remarkable degree of both cold and anoxia-tolerance similar to that observed among Painted Turtles (Chrysemys picta) and Snapping Turtles (Chelydra serpentina).
An Analysis of the Distribution, Ecology, and Status of Bugseeds (Corispermum) in Canada
Authors: Robson Diana Bizecki
Published: January 2017

The bugseeds (Corispermum spp.) are a genus of annual plants that are uncommon due to their psammophilic, ruderal habit. Bugseeds are typically found in natural areas with some bare sand, like sand dunes, but are also present in anthropogenically impacted sandy or gravelly areas. Increasing dune stabilization may be causing the endangerment of some Bugseed species. Assessing the rarity of the five species in Canada is hindered by the lack of recently collected specimens and the use of out-dated nomenclature in herbaria. Specimens of bugseeds from major herbaria all across Canada were examined and re-identified using the most recent taxonomic treatment in the Flora of North America. Hairy Bugseed (C. villosum) was the most commonly collected taxon and Hooker's Bugseed (C. hookeri var. pseudodeclinatum) the rarest. The natural distribution of all taxa, except Alaskan Bugseed (C. ochotense) which is only found in the far north, is from British Columbia to Ontario. Hairy, Hooker's and American Bugseed (C. americanum) are also found in Quebec, where they may have been introduced from further west. Summaries of Bugseed localities and habitats, and distribution maps are presented to facilitate the status assessment of plants in this genus.
Proportion of Calves and Adult Muskoxen, Ovibos moschatus Killed by Gray Wolves, Canis lupus, in July on Ellesmere Island
Authors: Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

Generally Gray Wolves (Canis lupus L., 1758) tend to focus predation on young-of-the-year ungulates during summer, and I hypothesized that wolves preying on Muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus Zimmerman, 1780) in summer would follow that trend. Over 23 July periods observing wolves on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, Canada, I found that packs of 2-12 adult wolves killed seven calves, one yearling, and five adult muskoxen at distances of 2.9 to 32 km from their current dens and pups. Given a possible bias against finding calves because of their fewer remains, these results do not necessarily refute the hypothesis, but they do make it clear that adult muskoxen form an important part of the wolves' diet in July and thus possibly at other times during summer.
Northeastern Range Extension for the Northern Redbelly Dace, Phoxinus eos, and the Golden Shiner, Notemigonus crysoleucas, in Québec
Authors: Desroches Jean-François
Published: January 2017

In 2005 and 2009, two species of Cyprinidae, the Northern Redbelly Dace, Phoxinus eos, and the Golden Shiner, Notemigonus crysoleucas, were collected northeast of their know range, in Québec. These new records, indeed range extensions, are presented here with a short discussion on the fish fauna of the area and on the possibility of introductions.En 2005 et en 2009, deux espèces de Cyprinidés, soit le Méné ventre-rouge, Phoxinus eos, et le Méné jaune, Notemigonus crysoleucas, ont été capturées au nord-est de leur répartition connue au Québec. Ces nouvelles mentions, qui constituent des extensions d'aire, sont ici présentées de même qu'une courte discussion sur l'ichtyofaune de la région et la possibilité d'introductions.
Female American Redstart, Setophaga ruticilla, Reuses Red-Eyed Vireo, Vireo olivaceus, Nest
Authors: McKellar Ann E.
Published: January 2017

Interspecific nest reuse is uncommon in open-cup nesting birds, but has been reported several times in the American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla). Individuals might reuse nests if appropriate nesting sites are limited or in order to conserve time and energy. Here I describe an instance of nest reuse by a female American Redstart of a Red-Eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus) nest after two previous failed nesting attempts. I argue that Redstarts might be more likely to reuse other species' nests during late-season nesting attempts.
The Evolution of Biological Societies in Alberta
Authors: Carbyn Lu , Leech Robin , Ash Gary
Published: January 2017

At present, four organizations serve biologists in Alberta: The Alberta Chapter of the Wildlife Society (ACTWS), The Alberta Native Plants Council (ANPC), The Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB), and The Canadian Society of Environmental Biologists (CSEB). Only the ASPB is a professional regulatory organization, two of the others (CSEB and ACTWS) have their origins in the Canadian Society of Wildlife and Fisheries Biologists (CSWFB) while ANPC is a non-regulatory society with independent origin. A fifth organization, the Canadian Chapter of Society for Conservation Biology, is being organized through initiatives resulting from the 24th International Congress for Conservation Biology, held in Edmonton in July 2010. Its role in Canada is not yet defined. The first biological society to function in Alberta was a chapter of The Canadian Society of Wildlife and Fisheries Biologists (CSWFB). After 10 years this organization morphed into the CSEB when the hopes of creating a professional status faded. This change forced the CSPB towards forming a professional voice on resource use, and towards a communication medium for biological resource management. Biological consulting firms proliferated in the late 1960s and early 1970s, coinciding with provincial and federal governments forming departments of the environment. Pressures from these events created a perceived need by some biologists for a self-regulating, professional organization, which comes under provincial jurisdiction. To this end, the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB) formed in 1975, and in 1991 received its Professional Biologist title status (P.Biol.) for members under the Societies Act of Alberta. The Alberta Chapter of The Wildlife Society (ACTWS) was formed in 1989; its focus was on research, science and wildlife management.
First Occurrence of Chain Pickerel (Esox niger) in Ontario: Possible Range Expansion from New York Waters of Eastern Lake Ontario
Authors: Hoyle James A. , Lake Colin
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we document the first Chain Pickerel (Esox niger) collected in Ontario and the first on the northwestern side of the St. Lawrence River in Canada. The fish was caught by a local commercial fisherman in April 2008. Since 2008, five additional specimens have been caught and are also documented here: three in 2009 and two more through spring 2010. All individuals were mature adults in robust condition. The appearance of Chain Pickerel in the Ontario waters of eastern Lake Ontario and the upper St. Lawrence River may signal an expansion in the range of this species from New York state waters.
Wolves, Canis lupus, Carry and Cache the Collars of Radio-collared White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianus, they Killed
Authors: Nelson Michael E. , Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

Wolves (Canis lupus) in northeastern Minnesota cached six radio-collars (four in winter, two in spring-summer) of 202 radio-collared White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) they killed or consumed from 1975 to 2010. A Wolf bedded on top of one collar cached in snow. We found one collar each at a Wolf den and Wolf rendezvous site, 2.5 km and 0.5 km respectively, from each deer's previous locations.
A Brief Survey of Mycophagy in Ruffed Grouse, Bonasa umbellus, from Northwestern Ontario
Authors: Tanney Joey B. , Hutchison Leonard J.
Published: January 2017

There are few published observations regarding the phenomenon of mycophagy in birds, the Ruffed Grouse being no exception. Twenty hunter-killed Ruffed Grouse crops were acquired in the Thunder Bay District from 22 September to 18 October, 2010, and examined for the presence of consumed fungal tissue. Four crops were found to contain intact remains of fruiting bodies. Based on cystidia and spore morphological characters, the specimens recovered were found to belong to three genera: Lactarius, Russula, and Melanoleuca. The results of this brief survey suggest the possible importance of mycophagy in the seasonal diet of the Ruffed Grouse, and indicate the need for further investigation.
Seasonal Moulting in Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) in the Rocky Mountains, Alberta
Authors: Tabacaru Crisia A. , Millar John S. , Longstaffe Frederick J.
Published: January 2017

We recorded seasonal moulting in North American Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) in the Kananaskis River valley, Alberta, Canada, to test the hypothesis that moulting is restricted to the times of year that do not overlap with other high-energy demands, such as reproduction (spring and summer), or with low nutrient availability (winter). Although a seasonal trend showing a peak in moulting in the post-breeding period provided support for our prediction, a low level of continuous moulting did occur throughout the year.
Effects of Post-Fire Salvage Logging on Cavity-Nesting Birds and Small Mammals in Southeastern Montana
Authors: Kronland William J. , Restani Marco
Published: January 2017

We investigated how post-fire salvage logging of Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) affected populations of cavity-nesting birds and small mammals in southeastern Montana in 2004 and 2005. We examined two salvage and two control plots with three point-count stations and one small mammal trap site randomly distributed across each plot. We used point counts and distance sampling methods to estimate density of cavity-nesting birds on each treatment. We also searched each plot for nests and used program MARK to construct a set of candidate models to investigate variations in nest survival related to treatment, year, and time. We used live traps arranged in webs centered on trapping sites and distance sampling methods to estimate small mammal density. Habitat characteristics were also quantified on each plot. Density of all cavity-nesting birds combined and of Hairy Woodpeckers (Picoides villosus) in particular were higher on the control than the salvage treatment. Density of large trees and abundance of active cavities were higher on the control treatment. Nest cavities on the salvage treatment were most often located in non-logged watersheds. Nest survival estimates were uniformly high, with only marginal variations attributed to treatment and year. Density of Deer Mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) was higher on the salvage than the control treatment, reflecting the amount of downed woody debris created during harvest.
Saxicolous Bryophytes of an Ordovician Dolomite Escarpment in Interlake Manitoba, with New Species Records for the Province
Authors: Caners Richard T.
Published: January 2017

An assessment of bryophyte species growing on an Ordovician dolomite escarpment in the Interlake region of Manitoba known as Marble Ridge revealed a diverse flora composed mostly of circumboreal floristic elements. Two liverwort families (including three species) and four moss species are reported for Manitoba for the first time: the liverworts Athalamia hyalina (Sommert.) Hatt. (Cleveaceae), Mannia fragrans (Balbis) Frye et Clark (Aytoniaceae), and Mannia sibirica (K. Müll.) Frye et Clark (Aytoniaceae) and the mosses Brachythecium collinum (Schleich. ex C. Müll.) Schimp. in B.S.G., Grimmia teretinervis Limpr., Schistidium frigidum H. H. Blom, and Seligeria donniana (Sm.) C. Müll. An annotated summary of these and other bryophyte species documented at the site is provided. The diversity of encountered bryophytes can mostly be attributed to the moist and shaded microclimatic conditions on the escarpment and the large number of microhabitats the escarpment supports. This study represents one of few accounts of bryophytes in the region and highlights the importance of this particular geologic formation in supporting a number of species that are expected to be regionally uncommon.
Greater Scaup, Aythya marila, Nest Site Characteristics on Grassy Island, New Brunswick
Authors: McRoberts Jon T. , Quintana Nicole T. , Smith W. Andrew , Ballard Warren B. , Kehoe F. Patrick , Dilworth Timothy G.
Published: January 2017

We studied Greater Scaup (Aythya marilla) nest site selection on Grassy Island, New Brunswick, during 1995 and 1996 by describing site selection in relation to habitat characteristics and association with larids using univariate comparisons. We pooled nesting data from both years and found that nesting sites were significantly closer to larid colonies and the edge of the patch of vegetation in which the nests were situated, had less forb canopy cover, more sedge cover, greater overhead concealment and lateral cover at 0–0.25 m, and less ground moisture than random sites. We evaluated Greater Scaup nests delimited as close to or far from larid colonies at 30 m and documented that nests closer to larid colonies were found in shorter vegetation that was closer to the edge of the patch of vegetation with less lateral cover at 0.25–0.5 m, but had greater overhead concealment than nests farther away. Advancements in the ecological understanding of the species, including habitat use patterns and species associations, will increase the likelihood of conservation successes.
Abundance and Habitat Selection of Breeding Scoters (Melanitta spp.) in Ontario’s Hudson Bay Lowlands
Authors: Brook Rodney W. , Abraham Kenneth F. , Middel Kevin R. , Ross R. Kenyon
Published: January 2017

Concern about declining populations of sea ducks counted on the wintering grounds prompted a survey of sea ducks on the breeding grounds in the Hudson Bay Lowlands of Ontario in spring 2009. We estimated densities of breeding scoters (Surf Scoter, Melanitta perspicillata, White-winged Scoter, M. fusca, and Black Scoter, M. americana) and found the average estimates of Surf Scoters (average = 0.11 indicated pairs/km2) and Black Scoters (average = 0.16 indicated pairs/km2) to be as high as some of the highest reported for North America. We also conducted a habitat association analysis using resource selection functions (RSF) for indicated pairs of all scoter species combined at a scale of 250 m. Breeding pairs of scoters in the Hudson Bay Lowlands appear to have an affinity for smaller wetlands (≤100 ha) disproportionate to what is available, also avoiding lakes (i.e., wetlands >100 ha). Pairs were also found in areas with less forest cover and fen area than was available. An estimate of the area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic suggests that these habitat association models have some utility. Once tested and validated with surveys beyond the current study area, these models can be refined and used to predict habitat use by breeding pairs of scoters in the Hudson Bay Lowlands; this information will be particularly useful for population estimation and land use planning.
First Observations of Mormon Metalmark (Apodemia mormo) Oviposition Behaviour in Canada
Authors: Wick Ashley Anne , Janelle Johane , Pruss Shelley , Erbilgin Nadir
Published: January 2017

We present new information on oviposition behaviour in the Mormon Metalmark, Apodemia mormo Felder and Felder, 1859, documented in Grasslands National Park of Canada, Saskatchewan, in August 2011. The Mormon Metalmark is found throughout the U.S. southwest; little is known about its life history in the northern populations found in Canada. We provide photographic documentation of the butterfly laying single eggs directly on soil or rocks. These observations differ from those recorded in the southern part of its range, where it lays eggs in groups of 2–4 on various locations of the host plant, Branched Umbrella-Plant, Eriogonum pauciflorum Pursh. This is the first published account of oviposition behaviour of this species in Canada in the most northern part of its range.
Barn Owl (Tyto alba) Predation on Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus) in Pennsylvania
Authors: Khalafalla Suzanne M. , Iudica Carlos A.
Published: January 2017

Diet of the Barn Owl, Tyto alba, was determined through examination of pellets collected from a roost site in Port Trevorton, Snyder County, Pennsylvania (40°42'26"N, 76°51'58"W). Remains of a Big Brown Bat, Eptesicus fuscus, were positively identified in one of the 80 pellets from our site. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a Barn Owl preying on a bat in Pennsylvania.
An Anomalous Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) Egg
Authors: Burg Theresa M. , Lauff Randolph F.
Published: January 2017

An anomalously large and coloured egg was found within a clutch of the Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) in Nova Scotia; all other eggs of the clutch were within the normal size and colour range for the species. Analysis of three mitochondrial genes suggests all eggs in the clutch were laid by Northern Saw-whet Owl(s) with similar genetic make-up. This is the first report of an anomalous egg from this species, and a rare example of added pigment.
A Specimen of the High Arctic Subspecies of Atlantic Puffin, Fratercula arctica naumanni, in Canada
Authors: Gaston Anthony J. , Provencher Jennifer F.
Published: January 2017

A fresh specimen of an adult Atlantic Puffin, Fratercula arctica, was obtained from a local hunter at the Minarets (Akpait) on the east coast of Baffin Island on 3 August 2007. The measurements of this bird exceeded those of Atlantic Puffins from Newfoundland and Labrador (F. a. arctica) but fell within the limits of the High Arctic subspecies (F. a. naumanni). This specimen appears to be the first of the High Arctic subspecies to be collected on a potential breeding site in Canada. This subspecies is highly disjunct from the Low Arctic subspecies and is probably represented in Canada by only a few hundred individuals.
Ecology of a Recently Discovered Population Segment of Blanding’s Turtles, Emydoidea blandingii, in Barren Meadow and Keddy Brooks, Nova Scotia
Authors: Lefebvre José , Mockford Stephen W. , Herman Tom B.
Published: January 2017

Blanding’s Turtles in Barren Meadow Brook and Keddy Brook are part of the Pleasant River population, the easternmost population currently recognized in Nova Scotia. Previous genetic analysis demonstrated restricted gene flow among the populations of Nova Scotia. The conservation of this genetic diversity is important to reduce genetic drift and bottleneck effects in these populations. Between 2006 and 2008, the population in Barren Meadow Brook and Keddy Brook was estimated using visual surveys, trapping, and radio-tracking. Over the three years, surveys yielded 69 individuals (14 females, 22 males, 29 juveniles, 4 undetermined). Capture-mark-recapture analysis using the Chapman variation of Petersen formulas for bi-census yielded population estimates of 88 Blanding’s Turtles. The sex ratio did not deviate significantly from 1:1. Applying minimum convex polygon (MCP) and kernel methods to radio-tracking data yielded preliminary estimates of home range size and location for males and females. Females had larger homes ranges, probably because of the limited availability of nesting sites in Barren Meadow and Keddy Brooks. New overwintering sites and three new nesting sites were identified. Home ranges of males did not overlap, and males seemed to show territorial behaviour. An expanded sample, particularly of males, is needed to improve the assessment of home ranges, movements, and behaviour. To date, conservation efforts in this population have focused on females. If home ranges of males in an expanded sample also do not overlap, then conservation of this population requires closer scrutiny of males and their population genetic structure.
Foods of Bats (Family Vespertilionidae) at Five Locations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts
Authors: Thomas Howard H. , Moosman Paul R. , Veilleux Jacques Pierre , Holt Jason
Published: January 2017

Diet and feeding relations of six species of bats at five locations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts were studied to improve understanding of foraging niche differentiation. Fecal samples were collected from 100 Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus), 154 Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus), 49 Northern Myotis (M. septentrionalis), 54 Eastern Small-footed Myotis (M. leibii), 9 Eastern Red Bats (Lasiurus borealis), and 1 Hoary Bat (L. cinereus) netted during non-hibernation periods from 2004 to 2008 at four locations in southern New Hampshire and one in north-central Massachusetts. Beetles (Order Coleoptera) were the major food of E. fuscus (mean percentage volume = 81.6%, 97% occurrence) followed by moths (Order Lepidoptera), with scarabaeid and carabid beetles the most abundant consumed families by volume and frequency. Moths were the most important item by volume and frequency preyed on by the remaining species (M. lucifugus, mean percentage volume 30.7%, 82% occurrence; M. septentrionalis, mean percentage volume 42.7%, 82% occurrence; M. leibii, mean percentage volume 49.4%, 81% occurrence; L. borealis, mean percentage volume 62.8%, 100% occurrence; L. cinereus, mean percentage volume 82%, 100% occurrence). Little Brown Myotis consumed the largest variety of prey (40); Northern Myotis consumed the highest volume of spiders (8.1%). Community similarity index values indicated diets of the three species of Myotis were more similar to each other (similarity = 0.71) than to those of non-Myotis. The diet of E. fuscus was more similar to that of the Myotis cluster (0.58) than to either species of Lasiurus. Results suggest that, despite faunal differences between the U.S. Northeast and other parts of North America, foraging relationships among guild members follows a similar pattern.
High Spring Mortality of Adult Richardson’s Ground Squirrels, Urocitellus richardsonii, Associated with a Severe Rainstorm in Southwestern Saskatchewan
Authors: Proulx Gilbert
Published: January 2017

Heavy rains with strong winds in southwestern Saskatchewan from 20 to 29 May 2010 flooded fields where adult Richardson’s Ground Squirrels (Urocitellus richardsonii) had recently been live–trapped. Natural mortality rates in six marked populations (n = 11 to 29 animals) ranged from 9.1 to 42.9%. The mean mortality rate of populations (28.9%) was significantly greater than that estimated for four populations (8.5%) studied in April and May 2007 and 2008 during drought periods. This finding is in agreement with past studies on other ground squirrel species which showed that spring snowstorms and heavy rains caused an increase in natural mortality rates.
Urban White-tailed Jackrabbits (Lepus townsendii) Eat Spike Plants (Cordyline australis) in Winter
Authors: Beaudoin Alwynne B. , Beaudoin Yves
Published: January 2017

We observed White-tailed Jackrabbits (Lepus townsendii) eating spike plants (Cordyline australis), a non-native ornamental garden plant, in our front yard within the city of Edmonton, Alberta. We have noted this persistent behaviour every winter between 2006-2007 and 2011-2012. By late January, the plants were usually eaten right down to the stem base. We suggest that the White-tailed Jackrabbits turn to this food source in winter when more preferred foods are lacking, are in short supply, or are not as readily accessible. Our observations add another plant species to the list of non-native plants consumed by White-tailed Jackrabbits.
Resistance of Canada Yew (Taxus canadensis) Branch Wood to Two Wood Decay Fungi
Authors: Richter Dana L. , Berns Amy M. , Frederick Clare F.
Published: January 2017

Wood of the larger yews (Taxus spp.) is reported to be decay-resistant, but little is known about the decay resistance of Canada Yew (Taxus canadensis Marsh.) wood. Branch wood from Canada Yew was compared to branch wood from Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra L.) and Eastern White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) in a standard laboratory decay test to evaluate its resistance to decay by two decay fungi. Canada Yew was shown to be significantly more resistant to decay by Gloeophyllum trabeum (Pers.) Murr. (a brown rot fungus) and Trametes versicolor (L.: Fr.) Quél. (a white rot fungus) than Northern Red Oak (P ≤ 0.05). Canada Yew was shown to be equal to Eastern White Cedar in resistance to decay by G. trabeum and more than twice as resistant to decay by Trametes versicolor (P ≤ 0.05). These results may have relevance for survival of Canada Yew, which is under pressure from browsing by White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus).
A Partial Albino Hatchling Northern Ring-necked Snake, Diadophis punctatus edwardsii, from Big Tancook Island, Mahone Bay, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Gilhen John , Caswell Graham , Drake Carrie , MacDonald Mary , McKinnon-Ramshaw Heather
Published: January 2017

On 10 June 2012 a sample of seven gravid female Northern Ring-necked Snakes (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii), from Big Tancook Island, Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, was selected for a seasonal live display at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in Halifax. A total of 13 eggs was removed from the display in late June 2012 and incubated for public viewing. The eggs began hatching on 22 August 2012. One of the hatchlings was partial albino (with zanthophores or amelanistic). This is the first record of an albinistic Northern Ring-necked Snake in Nova Scotia.
Community-Based Observations of Marine Mammal Occurrences in Groswater Bay, Labrador
Authors: Chaulk Keith G. , Michelin Daniel , Williams Melva , Wolfrey Tony
Published: January 2017

Experienced observers from the community of Rigolet, Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded marine mammal observations at Rigolet on the coast of Labrador from July to September 2012. During this study, a total of nine species of marine mammals were documented. A daily average of 2.6 (range 1–5) marine mammal species were observed, with Harp Seals (Pagophilus groenlandicus) and Common Minke Whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) being the most common. The area is thought to be regionally important for Ringed Seal (Pusa hispida) whelping; however, Ringed Seals were not observed in large numbers. Beluga Whales (Delphinapterus leucas) were also reported anecdotally, but were less common than the other species, with the possible exception of the Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Labrador is experiencing significant industrial growth related to hydroelectric development and offshore oil and gas exploration. These data should aid environmental assessment and environmental effects monitoring and assist researchers in understanding regional marine mammal ecology, including species diversity, seasonal occurrence, and relative abundance.
Flight of a flock of Common Eiders, Somateria mollisima, in Northumberland Strait interrupted by the Confederation Bridge, New Brunswick–Prince Edward Island
Authors: MacKinnon Colin M. , Kennedy Andrew C. , Horsman Matthew L.
Published: January 2017

An observation of the flight of a flock of Common Eiders, Somateria mollisima, on 24 October 2012 suggests that, 15 years after construction of the Confederation Bridge connecting New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island (12.9 km in length over the Northumberland Strait), the bridge may still be a partial barrier to bird flight and possibly migration. Although we believe the Common Eiders we observed intended to fly over or under the bridge, none of the 44 Common Eiders crossed the structure during the observation period.
First nesting records for the Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus, on Banks Island, Northwest Territories: evidence of range expansion to arctic islands in Canada
Authors: Smith Cynthia Marjorie , Lawrence Norman Andrew , Buck Rosemary Anne
Published: January 2017

Two Short-eared Owl, Asio flammeus, nests were discovered in the summer of 2000 along the Thomsen River in Aulavik National Park of Canada on Banks Island, Northwest Territories. One other sighting of a Short-eared Owl suggests the possibility of a third breeding pair. These nests are the first confirmed breeding evidence from islands in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
An alvar race of the couperi subspecies of the Silvery Blue (Glaucopsyche lygdamus couperi) in southeastern Ontario?
Authors: Catling Paul M. , Layberry Ross A.
Published: January 2017

The couperi subspecies of the Silvery Blue (Glaucopsyche lygdamus couperi) has expanded its range southward in northeastern North America using introduced legumes and open anthropogenic habitats. The discovery of a population of the Silvery Blue (Glaucopsyche lygdamus) in an eastern Ontario alvar woodland in 2011 suggests that the Silvery Blue may have been long established (although restricted) in southern Ontario. Three larvae from this population were reared from eggs deposited on native Neglected Milk-Vetch (Astragalus neglectus) by free-flying females in 2012. The three larvae, pupae, and single reared adult, as well as other adults from the alvar woodland, are described and compared with specimens associated with open anthropogenic habitat and introduced legumes. The alvar woodland specimens were closer to the northern Ontario subsp. couperi than to the subsp. lygdamus of the eastern United States. Although the alvar woodland larvae were darker green than subsp. couperi and the spots on the adults were on average larger than in subsp. couperi, the alvar woodland Silvery Blues could not be definitively distinguished from subsp. couperi, including specimens from northern Ontario and those from southern Ontario associated with open habitats. Nevertheless, there is a possibility that the alvar woodland population of the Silvery Blue dates from early postglacial times and represents a distinct race separate from the Silvery Blue of open habitats.
Historical distribution records and new records confirm and extend the distribution of the Silver Lamprey, Ichthyomyzon unicuspis, in the Hayes River, Hudson Bay watershed, Manitoba
Authors: Tyson J. David , Watkinson Douglas A.
Published: January 2017

We reviewed historical records and observations of the Silver Lamprey (Ichthyomyzon unicuspis) in the Hayes River in the Hudson Bay watershed. New records are presented from the Seeber River in the upper Hayes River system that extend the distribution of the Silver Lamprey in northern Manitoba. A new designatable unit for the Silver Lamprey, the Southern Hudson Bay–James Bay, is proposed.
Isotopic evidence of salmon, Oncorhynchus spp., in the diet of the Wolverine, Gulo gulo, on Princess Royal Island, British Columbia
Authors: Shardlow Thomas F.
Published: January 2017

Evidence from δ13C and δ15N isotope signatures from hair samples from a Wolverine, Gulo gulo, suggest the use of salmon, Oncorhynchus spp., in the diet of the Wolverine on Princess Royal Island on the north coast of British Columbia. This is also the first published record of Wolverines on that island.
Great Plains Ladies’-tresses, Spiranthes magnicamporum: disjunct in eastern Ontario and a new orchid species for the Ottawa District and Lanark County
Authors: Reddoch Joyce M. , Catling Paul M. , Reddoch Allan H.
Published: January 2017

We report the discovery of Great Plains Ladies’-tresses, Spiranthes magnicamporum (Orchidaceae), in eastern Ontario, 250 km east of its previously known eastern occurrence in Ontario. The population of more than 500 flowering plants (in 2013) was confined to Prairie Dropseed, Sporobolus heterolepis, grasslands within the Burnt Lands Alvar. Peak flowering was in late September, two weeks later than that of Nodding Ladies’-tresses, Spiranthes cernua, in the same area.
An illustrated key to the mandibles of small mammals of eastern Canada
Authors: Fauteux Dominique , Lupien Gilles , Fabianek François , Gagnon Jonathan , Séguy Marion , Imbeau Louis
Published: January 2017

Skulls are often used to identify small mammals, and most identification keys to small mammals have been developed on the assumption that whole skulls will be available. However, the skulls of small mammals are seldom found intact in predator pellets or nests, and the bones of several individuals are often scattered and mixed, making counting impossible without the use of a specific cranial part. In addition, only a few keys include all the species found in the eastern provinces of Canada.Mandibles readily resist degradation by the gastric acids of both avian and mammalian predators and are often found intact in food caches of mustelids and in bat hibernacula. We therefore designed an illustrated dichotomous key to small mammals (mean mass <5 kg) of eastern Canada based on diagnostic mandible characters (including the teeth and one dentary bone). We identified and confirmed diagnostic characters to distinguish 55 species from the orders Lagomorpha, Rodentia, Soricomorpha, Carnivora, and Chiroptera. These diagnostic characters are based on a review of the literature and were confirmed by measurements performed on both museum and trapped specimens. In order to facilitate identification, photographic illustrations are provided for each couplet of the key.The ability to identify small mammals using their mandibles will reduce the number of skull components needed and has proven to be a useful tool in the study of the diet of predators. This key may also be helpful in identifying bats in the genera Myotis, Perimyotis, and Eptesicus, which are presently affected by the spread of white-nose syndrome (caused by Pseudogymnoascus destructans) throughout the eastern part of Canada.
Diet of the Pacific Sand Lance (Ammodytes hexapterus) in the Salish Sea, British Columbia, in the 1960s
Authors: Hipfner J. Mark , Galbraith Moira
Published: January 2017

The diet of the Pacific Sand Lance (Ammodytes hexapterus) was quantified from the stomach contents of 115 Pacific Sand Lance caught in the Strait of Georgia and Saanich Inlet (Vancouver Island) in the Salish Sea, British Columbia, in the spring and summer of 1966, in the Strait of Georgia in the spring and summer of 1967, and in the Strait of Georgia and Saanich Inlet in the spring and summer of 1968. There were 12 major taxa of prey in diets, 8 of which were Crustacea. Based on an index of relative importance, copepods were the dominant prey in 1966 and 1968, but not in 1967, when cladocerans, larvaceans, and teleosts also were common. The copepods Pseudocalanus spp. and Calanus marshallae were the only taxa to appear in diets in all three years. Pseudocalanus dominated the copepod component of diets in 1966, when sampling occurred in July; unspecified copepod nauplii (an early larval stage) were dominant in 1967 and 1968, when sampling occurred earlier (April to June). With the profound changes that have occurred in the Salish Sea over recent decades, these data can serve as a baseline for comparison.
Distribution and abundance of baling twine in the landscape near Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nests: implications for nestling entanglement
Authors: Seacor Renee , Ostovar Kayhan , Restani Marco
Published: January 2017

Polypropylene baling twine used by Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) during nest construction creates a risk of entanglement for nestlings and adults on the yellowstone River, Montana. In 2013, we evaluated the abundance of twine in 2-km-radius buffer zones centred on 38 nests for three categories of road density. We found more twine per kilometre along roads in low (n = 19) and moderate (n = 13) road density nest buffer zones than in high road density nest buffer zones (n = 6). The estimated total amount of twine found along roads in nest buffer zones ranged from 0 to 2602 m and did not differ among road density strata. The percentage of Osprey nests containing twine was highest in low (63.2%) and moderate (61.5%) road density nest buffer zones and lowest (33.3%) in high road density buffer zones, which reflected a gradient from rural and suburban to urban landscapes. The estimated total amount of twine within a nest buffer zone did not predict whether a nest contained twine. The amount of twine found in seven nests destroyed by wind or power company personnel ranged from 0 to 206 m and was not correlated with the amount of twine found in their buffer zones. During the 2012 and 2013 breeding seasons, four of 120 nestlings (3.3%) became entangled in twine: two were cut free and fledged normally, one died, and one was euthanized. The abundance of twine in the environment surrounding nests and its slow rate of biodegradation mean that vigilance by citizen scientist nest monitors and assistance from power companies are the only short-term solution to reducing mortality resulting from entanglement.
A Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) delivers live prey to a pup
Authors: Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

A two-year-old sibling Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) carefully captured an Arctic Hare (Lepus arcticus) leveret alive on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, Canada, and delivered it alive to a pup 28–33 days old. This appears to be the first observation of a Gray Wolf delivering live prey to a pup.
Home range, movements, and denning chronology of the Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos) in west-central Alberta
Authors: Graham Karen , Stenhouse Gordon B.
Published: January 2017

An understanding of the natural history of the Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos) is important for recovery planning. We present data on home range size, movements and denning chronology collected using Global Positioning System (GPS) collars on Grizzly Bears in west-central Alberta. Mean annual kernel estimates for adult (1034 ± 656 (SD) km2) and subadult (1298 ± 1207 km2) males were larger than those for females with cubs of the year (213 ± 212 km2) and lone adult females (337 ± 176 km2) but not different from sub-adult females, females with yearlings, or females with ≥ 2-yr old cubs (P > 0.05). Mean rates of movement among female age–reproductive classes were different from each other (Z9 < 2.70, P > 0.05) but not different from sub-adult males (Z9 < 2.70, P > 0.05). Rates of movement of adult males were significantly different only from those of females with cubs of the year (Z9 = 3.94, P = 0.001). The greatest amount of movement occurred in June and the least in October. Bears traveled fastest in the morning and evening and slowest at night. Pregnant females had the longest denning period (175 days, ± 16 days SD). No difference was detected in denning duration among the remaining five age–sex–reproductive classes (P > 0.05). GPS collars provided large location datasets from which accurate home range estimates, hourly movement rates, and precise denning dates were determined. Examining similarities and differences in the basic biology of Grizzly Bears from various locations will improve our understanding of the plasticity of this species and the potential impacts of habitat and climate change.
New records of the Ogilvie Mountains Collared Lemming (Dicrostonyx nunatakensis) in central Yukon
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Slough Brian G. , Nagorsen David W. , Kukka Piia M.
Published: January 2017

The Ogilvie Mountain Collared Lemming (Dicrostonyx nunatakensis Youngman, 1967), reported only from the Ogilvie Mountains of central Yukon, is among the least known mammals in Canada. It was first discovered in 1961 and, since then, only 13 specimens had been collected, all from one mountain, in central Yukon. We conducted a targeted survey to determine the distribution of the species by trapping areas of apparently suitable habitat on 12 mountains within 40 km of the known location. Many of our traps were disabled by other mammals; however, we captured three Ogilvie Mountain Collared Lemmings on two mountains 25.9 km and 29.6 km from the original location. Our findings suggest that this lemming may be more widely distributed than indicated by earlier specimens. We suggest further surveys to delineate the range of the Ogilvie Mountain Collared Lemming.
A note on bird song: Samuel Hearne’s observations on the Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis)
Authors: Noakes David L. G. , Noakes Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2017

In 1795, the Arctic explorer Samuel Hearne recorded detailed observations on the distribution, ecology, molt, and behaviour of the Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis). The most significant of his observations was that Snow Buntings imitated the vocalizations of Atlantic Canaries (Serinus canarius) when housed with that species. His account has apparently not been widely recognized by ornithologists, but it is one of the first such observations on bird’s acquisition of vocalizations.
Habitat selection and nest success of the Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda) in Ivvavik National Park, Yukon, Canada
Authors: Miller Valerie , Nol Erica , Nguyen Linh P. , Turner Devin M.
Published: January 2017

The Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda) is a grassland shorebird species associated primarily with prairie habitats in central North America. A disjunct and poorly studied population also occurs in Yukon, Canada, and Alaska, United States. We studied habitat selection of nesting Upland Sandpipers in Ivvavik National Park, Yukon, at the scales of microhabitat (1-m radius around nest) and putative home range (11.3-m radius plots at nests and within 50 m of nest). At the microhabitat scale, the Upland Sandpiper selected nest sites with lower visibility from above than that of their home range (median 91.5%, range 70–98% versus median 99.0%, range 85–100%) and less-variable composition of vegetation than at random sites within the home range. Vegetation adjacent to the nest in the eastern quadrat was significantly shorter (mean ± standard error: 10.6 ± 1.55 cm) than that in other directions around the nest (> 13 cm); nest sites and microsites within home ranges were more often hummocky than random sites in the park. At the mesohabitat scale, Upland Sandpipers selected sites within home ranges with fewer trees than random sites within the park (10.3 ± 3.0 trees per 11.3-m-radius plot around nest versus 32.9 ± 5.9 trees per 11.3-m-radius plot in the park) and greater herbaceous cover (70.7% ± 3.0% versus 56.2% ± 3.7%). Despite the disproportionate use of sites with fewer trees, more herbaceous cover, and lower vertical visibility, these factors did not relate to nest success in our sample. Of the 24 nests found in 2010 and 2011, 22 contained four eggs and 2 contained three eggs. Upland Sandpipers at this high latitude site had a nesting success rate of 0.85 ± 0.01 and 0.56 ± 0.01 in 2010 and 2011, respectively, for a 21-day incubation period. Further assessment of the selected characteristics of nesting sites will improve our ability to predict the effects of northward shrub and tree encroachment on this grassland species.
Song discrimination by male Mourning Warblers (Geothlypis philadelphia) and implications for population divergence across the breeding range
Authors: Pitocchelli Jay
Published: January 2017

Geographic variation in song may reduce or eliminate the ability of some populations to recognize each other as conspecifics, possibly leading to assortative mating, reproductive isolation, and speciation. Song playback experiments, used to evaluate the significance of geographic variation in song, have been particularly useful in discovering divergence among previously unknown populations of sibling species. In this study, I report the results of song playback to male Mourning Warblers (Geothlypis philadelphia) from populations throughout the breeding range and discuss the implications for population divergence. Four regions in the breeding range contain unique song types or regiolects: western, eastern, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. Results of reciprocal song playback experiments showed that males from the western and Newfoundland regiolects respond more aggressively to songs in their own regiolect than those in the other regiolects. Interior populations, i.e., eastern and Nova Scotia regions, showed little or no difference in aggressive response toward their own versus other regiolects. This pattern may be due to a combination of geographic proximity of populations belonging to different regiolects, song learning, experience, and contact during migration. Song discrimination by populations from the western Prairie Provinces and Newfoundland is consistent with the existence of at least partial reproductive isolation at the geographic extremes of the breeding range.
Horse ranching increases biodiversity in a foothills parkland prairie in northern Kananaskis Country, western Alberta
Authors: Catling Paul M. , Kostiuk Brenda , Thompson Don
Published: January 2017

Vascular plant biodiversity was evaluated in two adjacent sections of a continuous prairie glade. One section has been subject to moderate grazing by feral horses (Equus ferus caballus) in late summer and fall for the past 25 years, while the other has been protected. From 28 June to 2 July 2009, we recorded cover for all vascular plants present in ten 1-m2 quadrats along five transects in each section. We calculated biodiversity measures, including species richness, evenness, and Shannon-Wiener and Simpson’s diversity indexes. Horse grazing did not affect richness but significantly increased evenness. Grazing increased the Shannon-Wiener index, but did not affect the Simpson’s index. Cover and frequency values for most species differed significantly between the two sites. Mountain Rough Fescue (Festuca campestris Rydberg) dominated the non-grazed site but several shorter grasses and different forbs dominated the grazed site. The plant community in the grazed areas can be seen as an earlier seral stage of the fescue community with a different contingent of plant species. Light grazing in part of the prairie glade increased overall plant diversity so that it provided more diverse animal habitat.