bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Black Bear, Ursus americanus, Ecology on the Northeast Coast of Labrador
Authors: Chaulk Keith , Bondrup-Nielsen Soren , Harrington Fred
Published: January 2017

Twenty-three Black Bears (Ursus americanus) were captured, 20 were measured, marked and/or radio collared, in northeastern Labrador, between 1996 and 1997. Bears used sea ice for travel, coastal islands for denning, hunted adult Caribou (Rangifer tarandus), and were the possible cause of Moose (Alces alces) calf mortality. Body sizes were small, median weight of adult females was 48 kg, and the sex ratio for captured subjects was 1:1. Four of six radio-collared females gave birth during the winter of 1997, female reproductive histories suggest delayed sexual maturity. Den entry occurred between October and December 1996; spring emergence occurred between April and May 1997, with estimated denning period ranging from 148-222 days. Visual observations of habitat use by radio collared subjects (n = 10) were not tested statistically but suggest that barren areas are used nearly as much as forest. Location data from three GPS collars deployed on three adult females were analysed using Chi-square goodness-of-fit test with Bonferroni correction; two females appeared to prefer forest habitats (p < 0.05).
Long-tailed Weasel, Mustela frenata, Movements and Diggings in Alfalfa Fields Inhabited by Northern Pocket Gophers, Thomomys talpoides
Authors: Proulx Gilbert
Published: January 2017

Little is known about the movements of Long-tailed Weasels (Mustela frenata) in alfalfa (Medicago spp.) fields inhabited by Northern Pocket Gophers (Thomomys talpoides). In central Alberta, I intermittently followed the movements of Long-tailed Weasels during two consecutive winters. Three types of movements were observed: straight-line movements across the fields; sinuous movements along the edges of the field; and arc movements within the field, over concentrations of Northern Pocket Gopher burrow systems. Arc movements were 0.6-28-m-wide at their base, and extended from 6 to 45 m into the field. Movements of Long-tailed Weasels into the fields were accompanied by fresh diggings in Northern Pocket Gopher burrow systems, which became inactive thereafter. This study suggests that Long-tailed Weasels may have a cognitive map of the distribution of Northern Pocket Gophers in their home range.
Microhabitat Characteristics of Lapland Longspur, Calcarius lapponicus, Nests at Cape Churchill, Manitoba
Authors: Boal Clint W. , Andersen David E.
Published: January 2017

We examined microsite characteristics at 21 Lapland Longspur (Calcarius lapponicus) nests and land cover types in which they occurred in Wapusk National Park, Cape Churchill, Manitoba. Nests were located in four of six physiographic-vegetation land-cover types. Regardless of land-cover type, all but one nest was built on a pressure ridge or mound. Nests were built midway between the bottom and top of ridges or mounds with steeper slopes than was randomly available. Longspur nests had a distinctive southwest orientation (P < 0.001). Longspurs selected nest sites that consisted of comparatively greater amounts of shrub species and lesser amounts of moss than were randomly available. Nests were generally well concealed by vegetation (mean = 67.0%) and concealment was negatively associated with amount of graminoid species at the nest (P = 0.0005). Our nesting habitat data may facilitate a better understanding of breeding Lapland Longspur habitat requirements, and potential impacts of habitat degradation by increasing Snow Goose (Chen caerulescens) populations in the study area.
Insect Visitation to Wildflowers in the Endangered Garry Oak, Quercus garryana, Ecosystem of British Columbia
Authors: Parachnowitsch A. L. , Elle E.
Published: January 2017

The Garry Oak Ecosystem (GOE) is a fragmented and endangered ecosystem in Canada, and is currently the focus of conservation and restoration efforts in British Columbia. However, little is known about the basic biology of GOE forbs, or their relationships with pollinating insects. We monitored wildflowers and their insect visitors in 25 quadrats within a 25 × 25 metre plot, located in a fragment of the GOE near Duncan, British Columbia, for six weeks (the majority of the flowering period). Overall, 21 native and non-native forb species flowered in our quadrats during the survey, and we observed an additional six forb species flowering outside of our quadrats. Eight forbs were visited within quadrats by a total of 13 insect taxa, identified to morphospecies. Visits by eight additional morphospecies were observed outside of the quadrats. In general, visitation was low; however, most insect morphospecies were observed visiting more than one plant species, and most plant species were visited by more than one insect morphospecies, suggesting that pollination may be generalised in this community. A Chi-squared analysis indicated that insect visitation was not proportional to the relative abundance of forbs, with higher than expected visitation to Common camas (Camassia quamash), and no observed visits to 11 species, most with very small (putatively unattractive) flowers. The most frequent insect visitor was the introduced Honeybee, Apis mellifera, followed by native mason bees (Osmia spp.) and mining bees (Andrena spp.). Our observations provide baseline data for future, detailed studies that should investigate the importance of plant-pollinator mutualisms for sustainability of populations and communities in this rare ecosystem.
Additions and Range Extensions to the Vascular Plant Flora of the Continental Northwest Territories and Nunavut, Canada III
Authors: Cody William J. , Reading Kenneth L.
Published: January 2017

Fifteen native taxa are reported as new to either District of Keewatin (now Nunavut in part) or District of Mackenzie (Nunavut contains the northeastern portion): Aster puniceus, Astragalus eucosmus, Astragalus eucosmus f. albinus, Carex media, Epilobium latifolium f. albiflorum, Eriophorum viridi-carinatum, Erysiumum pallasii, Moneses uniflora, Najas flexilis, Potamogeton obtusifolius, Salix arctica x glauca, Salix glauca ssp. callicarpae, Salix myrtillifolia, Salix rotundifolia, Shepherdia canadensis, taxa are new to Northwest Territories overall. Significant range extensions for 157 native taxa are included.
Vision and its Relationship to Novel Behaviour in St. Lawrence River Greenland Sharks, Somniosus microcephalus
Authors: Harvey-Clark Chris J. , Gallant Jeffrey J. , Batt John H.
Published: January 2017

Rarely observed Greenland Sharks, Somniosus microcephalus, were recorded at shallow depths by divers employing underwater video in the St. Lawrence River, in association with a seasonal concentration of Capelin (Mallotus villosus) in May-June 2003. We recorded unique proximity-induced display motor patterns in these sharks, which have not been recorded in underwater observations of Arctic Greenland Sharks. Arctic sharks have a high incidence of blindness due to an ocular copepod parasite, Ommatokoita elongata. The absence of parasite-induced blindness in St. Lawrence Greenland Sharks, in contrast to endemic blindness in the Arctic population, may allow sharks in this region to more readily visually recognize the presence of conspecifics and potential prey. Improved visual acuity may therefore allow St. Lawrence River sharks to express a different behavioural repertoire than Arctic sharks, with resulting changes in intra- and inter-specific aggression and predatory behaviour.
Charactéristiques d'une population introduit du Grand brochet, Esox lucius, dans le lac Ramsay, Parc de la Gatineau, Québec, et impact sur l'ichtyofaune
Authors: Vachon Josiane , Lavallée Brigitte F. , Chapleau François
Published: January 2017

En 1995, la présence du Grand brochet (Esox lucius), une espèce piscivore, a été notée pour la première fois dans le lac Ramsay, Parc de la Gatineau (Québec). Il a été déterminé que l’espèce a été introduite après l’été 1991. Un échantillonnage exhaustif de l’ichtyofaune du lac en 2001 et 2002 a permis de constater que trois des 17 petites espèces de poissons du lac sont probablement disparues: le Mulet perlé (Margariscus margarita), l’Épinoche à cinq épines (Culaea inconstans) et une forme rare de l’Épinoche à trois épines (Gasterosteus aculeatus). Il est prédit que plusieurs autres espèces pourraient disparaître au cours des prochaines années. La croissance du Grand brochet dans le lac Ramsay est comparable aux autres lacs du sud du Québec. En 2001, le rapport femelles:mâles était de 15 : 1, une valeur anormale et inexpliquée.In 1995, the Northern Pike (Esox lucius), a piscivorous fish, was captured for the first time in Ramsay Lake, a small lake of the Gatineau Park (Québec). It was determined that this species was introduced after the summer of 1991. An exhaustive survey of the ichthyofauna of this lake in 2001 and 2002 indicated that three of the 17 small-bodied species of the lake have probably disappeared: the Pearl Dace (Margariscus margarita), the Fivespine Stickleback (Culaea inconstans) and a special form of the Threespine Stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). It is predicted that several other species may be extirpated in the next few years. Northern Pike growth in the lake is comparable to other values obtained for other southern Québec lakes. In 2001, the female:male ratio was highly unbalanced and difficult to explain at 15 : 1. Erratum added.
Detectability of Non-passerines Using "Pishing" in Eastern Ontario Woodlands
Authors: Zimmerling J. Ryan
Published: January 2017

During spring and summer 1997, non-passerines were surveyed in three woodlots near Arnprior, Ontario, using standard point counts, and standard point counts combined with “pishing” (pishing involves the observer saying the words “pish pish pish pish” in a continuous series of short bursts). Of the 27 non-passerine species detected, 22 were recorded on more days using pishing as opposed to the standard point count method. However, only three of these species were recorded on significantly more days using pishing. Several woodpecker species approached more closely during point counts with pishing, which facilitated identification. In contrast, raptors and some other non-passerines that may have otherwise gone unnoticed were identified as they fled from the pishing sound. Hence, when the overall goal of research is to detect species richness or to gather presence and absence data in woodlands, point counts combined with pishing may increase detectability of some non-passerines.
Long-eared Owls, Asio otus: A Review of North American Banding
Authors: Houston C. Stuart
Published: January 2017

In Saskatchewan, at the northern edge of the species’ range, the Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) is an irruptive species that has appeared in numbers during major vole (Microtus) outbreaks in 4 of 44 years. Seven other years have had either no bandings or no sightings over large areas. In a search for possible evidence of food-based nomadism, population trends, length and synchronicity of cycles, and longevity, I reviewed all banding in North America through 1998. Prior to banding office computerization (retroactive to 1955), 803 Long-eared Owls had been banded with 33 band encounters (4.1%). Between 1955 and 1998 there were another 10,250 banded by 426 banders with 86 band encounters (0.8%). Encounter records, especially those involving unexpected directions and distances, tend to support but do not prove food-based nomadism. Peaks of migration movements at different long-term stations occurred in different years. There is soft evidence of both 10- and 3-yr cycles. There is inconclusive evidence for a continuing population decline. The oldest banded bird in North America lived for 11 years, 1 month, but another possibly lived for 15 years, 8 months.
Long-distance Movement of a Dispersing Deer Mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus, in the Boreal Forest
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , O'Donovan Kieran S. , Powell Todd
Published: January 2017

We report an apparent long-distance, non-homing movement of 3044 ± 60 m made by a dispersing subadult male Deer Mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus, in southeastern Yukon. Our observation is nearly twice the maximum distance previously recorded for non-homing Deer Mice, and apparently the longest dispersal movement recorded for this species.
Extension de l'aire de distribution de la Couleuvre à collier, Diadophis punctatus edwardsii, dans l'est du Québec
Authors: Desroches Jean-François , Roussel Benoit
Published: January 2017

Deux Couleuvres à collier adulte (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii) ont été trouvées au parc national du Saguenay, dans l’est du Québec, en 2004 et 2005. Ces mentions se retrouvent à près 150 kilomètres au nord-nord-est de la mention la plus proche de l’espèce. L’habitat est constitué de forêt mixte près d’escarpements rocheux, dans des vallées. Il pourrait s’agir de populations isolées de celles retrouvées plus au sud.Two Ringneck Snakes (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii) was found in the Saguenay National Park, in eastern Québec, in 2004 and 2005. These records are about 150 kilometers north-north-east from the nearest previous record. The habitat is mixed forest, with rocky cliffs, in valleys. They may represent isolated populations from those found in southern Quebec.
Plumage and Internal Morphology of the "Prairie Grouse", Tympanuchus cupido × phasianellus, of Manitoulin Island, Ontario
Authors: Lumsden Harry G.
Published: January 2017

I made comparisons among populations of Greater Prairie-Chickens, Sharp-tailed Grouse and their hybrids on Manitoulin Island of pinnae length, breast, flank and tail feather patterns, tail graduations, wing chord, and skeletal characteristics. Estimates of the proportion of hybrids from these individual characters ranged from 32% to 60%. Lek behaviour of hybrids was a mixture of the patterns of the parent species. The colour of the booming sacks varied and displayed the range between the parent species. There was a tendency with time for the characters of Prairie Chickens to decline coincident with an increase in Sharptailed Grouse characters. Both Prairie Chickens and Sharp-tailed Grouse are lek species in which an alpha male may consummate most of the the matings. The speed with which morphological change took place in Manitoulin Island is to be expected where a non-random mating system of this kind prevails.
Response of Pale Swallow-wort, Vincetoxicum rossicum, following Aboveground Tissue Loss: Implications for the Timing of Mechanical Control
Authors: McKague Curtis I. , Cappuccino Naomi
Published: January 2017

The growth and reproduction of Pale Swallow-wort, Vincetoxicum rossicum, were investigated following differentially timed above-ground tissue loss by clipping throughout the growing season in Ottawa, Canada. If clipping occurred early in the growing season (before June), mature plants were able to compensate in height but not in biomass or reproductive output when compared to uncut controls. This compensation in height did not seem to come at the expense of below-ground storage tissue; there was no significant difference in root mass among the control and treatment conditions. Final plant height, mass, and reproduction declined as plants were cut later in the season. Pale Swallow-wort seedlings clipped before June were able to compensate in height when compared to uncut controls. Unlike mature plants, this compensation in height did come at the expense of root mass. As the clipping treatment was performed later into the growing season, both final plant height and shoot mass decreased, while root mass increased. The best time for controlling the population spread of Pale Swallow-wort using a single cutting treatment was on or near 26 June. Plants cut earlier than this date were able resprout and produce seeds; those cut after had already produced seeds that appeared viable and may be able to germinate if the cut stems were left in the field. When a single cutting or mowing treatment is to be employed for controlling Pale Swallow-wort, we recommend cutting after the first fruits are produced but before they are fully developed.
Mortality of Little Brown Bats, Myotis lucifugus, in a Rodent Trap in the Boreal Forest
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Slough Brian G.
Published: January 2017

Accidental mortality of bats is not often observed or reported in the literature. It may, however, have an impact on population size and structure. We report an observation of 53 Little Brown Bats (Myotis lucifugus) being trapped and drowned in a homemade rodent trap at an abandoned cabin in southern Yukon. Traps of this design may be commonly used in the boreal forest. We recommend not using such traps in cabins that are used by colonies of bats.
Lake Sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, Movements in Rainy Lake, Minnesota and Ontario
Authors: Adams W. Eugene , Kallemeyn Larry W. , Willis David W.
Published: January 2017

Rainy Lake, Minnesota-Ontario, contains a native population of Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) that has gone largely unstudied. The objective of this descriptive study was to summarize generalized Lake Sturgeon movement patterns through the use of biotelemetry. Telemetry data reinforced the high utilization of the Squirrel Falls geographic location by Lake Sturgeon, with 37% of the re-locations occurring in that area. Other spring aggregations occurred in areas associated with Kettle Falls, the Pipestone River, and the Rat River, which could indicate spawning activity. Movement of Lake Sturgeon between the Seine River and the South Arm of Rainy Lake indicates the likelihood of one integrated population on the east end of the South Arm. The lack of re-locations in the Seine River during the months of September and October may have been due to Lake Sturgeon moving into deeper water areas of the Seine River and out of the range of radio telemetry gear or simply moving back into the South Arm. Due to the movements between Minnesota and Ontario, coordination of management efforts among provincial, state, and federal agencies will be important.
Erratum: Additions to the flora of the continental Northwest Territories from the Great Slave area. (2005) 119(3): 437-440.
Authors: Catling Paul M.
Published: January 2017

Previous reports of two flora taxa are added.
Conservation Evaluation of the Pacific Population of Dwarf Woollyheads, Psilocarphus brevissimus var. brevissimus, in Canada
Authors: Douglas George W. , Penny Jenifer L. , Barton Ksenia
Published: January 2017

In Canada, Dwarf Woolly-heads, Psilocarphus brevissimus var. brevissimus, is restricted to the Similkameen River valley, south of Princeton in southwestern British Columbia and the extreme southeast and southwest corners of Alberta and Saskatchewan, respectively. This paper deals with the three British Columbia populations which represent the northwestern limit of the species which ranges from south-central British Columbia, southward in the western United States to Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, California and Baja California, Mexico. In British Columbia, P. brevissimus is associated with calcareous vernal pools and ephemeral pond edges in large forest openings. This habitat is rare in the area the few existing populations could easily be extirpated or degraded through slight changes in groundwater levels, coalbed methane gas drilling, housing development or recreational vehicles.
Annual Variation in Habitat Use by White-footed Mice, Peromyscus leucopus: The Effects of Forest Patch Size, Edge and Surrounding Vegetation Type
Authors: Anderson Christine S. , Meikle Douglas B. , Cady Alan B. , Schaefer Robert L.
Published: January 2017

White-footed Mice (Peromyscus leucopus) were trapped for two years in the exterior matrix, edge, and interior forest habitat sections of six forests patches in a fragmented agricultural landscape. We used data on the capture locations of P. leucopus individuals from the two years, which differed in rainfall (i.e., summer of 2000 with 50% more rain than summer of 1999), to assess how patch size, edge habitat, and surrounding habitat type influence habitat use and movements in populations of this forest habitat generalist. We found that the proportion of individuals subsequently captured in the forest edge from the exterior was 16 times greater in the wet year than in the dry year and approximately twice as many P. leucopus were not subsequently recaptured from the exterior matrix in the dry year compared to the wet year. For each year, captures between habitats did not differ in relation to patch size, edge forest habitat, or exterior matrix type. These results illustrate the generalist habitat preferences of P. leucopus, but emphasize annual variation in their behavior and distribution.
An Observation of the Spring 2006 Migration of Black Scoter Melanitta nigra, in Northumberland Strait, Interrupted by the Confederation Bridge, New Brunswick - Prince Edward Island
Authors: MacKinnon Colin , Kennedy Andrew
Published: January 2017

An observation from the bridge of a flock of Black Scoters suggests that, nine years after construction, the 12.9 km Confederation Bridge may still be a partial barrier to bird migration. Only 3 of 18 scoters (16.7%) crossed over the structure during the observation period.
First Record of a River Otter, Lontra canadensis, Captured on the Northeastern Coast of Alaska
Authors: Haskell Shawn P.
Published: January 2017

A River Otter (Lontra canadensis) was captured on the Beaufort Sea coast of northeastern Alaska during a coastal fish study in late July 2001. The otter was dead upon retrieval and of adult size. River Otter distribution is not known to extend north of Alaska’s Brooks Range. This occurrence may have represented a one-time spring dispersal event. However, fluviomorphological features of some river systems may provide suitable habitat for an overwintering otter in this region of Alaska’s North Slope.
Osprey, Pandion haliaetus, Depredates Common Eider, Somateria mollissima, Duckling
Authors: Blinn Brenda M. , Violette Vicky , Diamond Antony W.
Published: January 2017

To our knowledge, we present the first published account of a successful attack on a Common Eider (Somateria mollissima) duckling by an Osprey. Ospreys were sighted periodically during 940 hours of Common Eider observations in June-August, 2001 on Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick. One duckling (<1 week old) was observed depredated by an Osprey. Vulnerability of ducklings to predation may promote such opportunistic behaviour. The rarity of observations of such incidents suggests depredation on ducklings by Osprey is uncommon.
Effects of Timber Harvesting and Plantation Development on Cavity-nesting Birds in New Brunswick
Authors: Woodley Stephen J. , Johnson Greg , Freedman Bill , Kirk David A.
Published: January 2017

We studied the abundance of cavity-nesting birds in forestry-related habitats in a region of Acadian forest in New Brunswick. We examined five reference stands of natural forest, a chronosequence of conifer plantations up to 19 years old (the oldest in the study area), two selectively harvested stands, and a 30-year-old naturally regenerated clear-cut. The species richness and abundance of cavity-nesting birds were higher in reference forest (average 10.0 species per stand; 5.3 territories per 10 ha) than in plantations (2.3/stand; 1.0/10 ha), selectively harvested stands (7.0/stand; 3.8/10 ha), or the naturally regenerated clear-cut (5.0/stand; 2.5/10 ha). A cluster analysis segregated the “community” of cavity-nesting birds of natural forest from those of other treatments. Of the various harvested stands and plantations, five with a relatively large number of residual snags clustered similarly in the cluster analysis, while those with no or very few snags also clustered together. We used arrays of nest boxes (12 per stand) to examine whether the availability of cavities was limiting the use of habitats otherwise suitable for foraging by cavity-dependent species. Nest-box use for nesting and roosting was much higher in the seven plantations examined (average 4.0/10 ha for nesting and 2.9/10 ha for roosting) than in three reference stands (each 0.3/10 ha), suggesting that the plantations were deficient in this critical-habitat element. Our results suggest that certain mitigations, such as leaving residual snags and living cavity-trees, would help maintain populations of some cavity-dependent birds in clear-cuts and plantations. However, some cavity-dependent species might not be accommodated by these mitigations and are potentially at risk in intensively managed areas, unless landscape-scale management plans ensure the survival of sufficient areas of older mixed-wood forest.
Bur Buttercup, Ranunculus testiculatus, New to Eastern Canada
Authors: Oldham Michael J. , Goodwin Clive E. , Blaney Sean
Published: January 2017

Bur Buttercup (Ranunculus testiculatus) is newly reported for eastern Canada based on two collections from campgrounds in southern Ontario. This vernal, annual, Eurasian weed is widespread in western North America and is expanding its range in the east; it should be expected elsewhere in eastern Canada. Bur Buttercup is known to be toxic to livestock.
A Conservation Evaluation of Smooth Goosefoot, Chenopodium subglabrum (Chenopodiaceae), in Canada
Authors: Robson Diana Bizecki
Published: January 2017

Smooth Goosefoot (Chenopodium subglabrum) is restricted to North America and reaches its northern distribution limit in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The habitat of Chenopodium subglabrum contains some element of active sand. It is commonly found on the stabilizing edges of active dunes as well as dune blowouts, and occasionally on bare or recently disturbed sand plains. Chenopodium subglabrum is a sexually reproducing annual species with seeds that may remain in the seed bank for several years, waiting for the conditions it favours for germination. Germination of this species is erratic, possibly in response to moisture, making the overall population trend difficult to determine. The estimated population in Canada is likely between 5000 and 10000 individuals. There has been considerable loss of habitat as dunes become vegetated. The processes of dune stabilization and fire control threaten survival of this species.
Pacific Hagfish, Eptatretus stoutii, Spotted Ratfish, Hydrolagus colliei, and Scavenger Activity on Tethered Carrion in Subtidal Benthic Communities off Western Vancouver Island
Authors: Davies Sarah , Griffiths Ali , Reimchen T. E.
Published: January 2017

The influence of pelagic carrion food falls on marine benthic scavenging communities was investigated at two depths (10 m, 50 m) in Barkley Sound, west Vancouver Island, British Columbia from 12 May to 4 June, 2003. A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with video cameras was used to monitor anchored carrion (15 kg pig leg) during daylight and darkness. The videos were subsequently analyzed for species diversity, abundance and the intensity of scavenging. At 10 m, Redrock Crab (Cancer productus) and Kelp Greenling (Hexagrammos decagrammus) dominated, while at 50 m, Spot Shrimp (Pandalus platyceros), Spotted Ratfish (Hydrolagus colliei) and Pacific Hagfish (Eptatretus stoutii) were the dominant species, most of which were nocturnal. Hagfish were the major consumers of the carrion and after 23 days, no soft tissues remained at 50 m while 40% remained at 10 m. Within 24 hours of the carrion deployment, two of eleven ratfish succumbed, probably due to the direct clogging effects of hagfish mucus on the respiratory apparatus of the ratfish. These field observations are consistent with laboratory results suggesting high efficacy of hagfish mucus in competitive interactions.
MtDNA Analyses on Hair Samples Confirm Cougar, Puma concolor, Presence in Southern New Brunswick, Eastern Canada
Authors: Bertrand A.-S. , Kenn S. , Gallant D. , Tremblay E. , Vasseur L. , Wissink R.
Published: January 2017

For the last 40 years, the presence of Cougars (Puma concolor) in eastern Canada has been highly controversial. The purpose of this study was to collect physical evidence of Cougars using a passive detection method. Baited hair-traps combined with camera-traps were installed in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. DNA analyses on two hair samples confirmed that the species was present in southern New Brunswick in 2003. A footprint photographed after an observation of a Cougar by reliable observers was examined by experts and was consistent with a Cougar footprint. Additional data are required to determine the status of Cougars in the northeastern part of its historical range.
Comparison of Scales, Pectoral Fin Rays and Opercles for Age Estimation of Ontario Redhorse, Moxostoma, Species
Authors: Reid Scott M.
Published: January 2017

Opercle based age estimates of four redhorse species (Moxostoma anisurum, M. carinatum, M. macrolepidotum and M. valenciennesi) were compared with those from two structures that can be obtained non-lethally (scales and pectoral fin rays). For all species, age estimates from scales were significantly lower than those obtained from fin rays and opercles. After ages 4 to 5, age estimates from scales were consistently lower than those from the opercle. Overall differences between age estimates from fin rays and opercles were only detected for M. anisurum. For all species, age estimates from fin rays were consistently lower than opercles after ages 12 to 15. Closer agreement among different structures was identified for populations of M. macrolepidotum comprised of younger individuals. Maximum ages reported for Ontario populations were higher than those previously reported across the species’ ranges, reflecting either geographic differences in growth and longevity, or the historical use of scales for age estimation.
Flowering During January in Antigonish County, Nova Scotia
Authors: Garbary David J. , Taylor Barry R.
Published: January 2017

Over 85 records of 23 species of blooming, herbaceous angiosperms were made at 19 sites in Antigonish County between 7 and 21 January 2006, when daytime temperatures reached 15°C. These observations followed an unusually warm fall and early winter. All species were observed on waste ground or in fields and garden plots, except for Epigaea repens L. which was part of ground vegetation in a sparsely wooded site. The primary families represented were Asteraceae (six species), Brassicaceae (six species) and Carophyllaceae (four species). The most commonly observed plants were Taraxacum officinale (L.) Weber (11 sites), Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik. (nine sites), Thlaspi arvense L. (three sites) and Stellaria media (L.) Vill. (four sites). Many plants and inflorescences were conspicuously frost-damaged, and flowers were rarely fully open. In several species, e.g., T. arvense and Cerastium vulgatum L., many individual plants looked normal and there was no evidence of frost damage. These observations are the latest flowering records for Nova Scotia.
State Records and Habitat of Clam Shrimp, Caenestheriella gynecia (Crustacea: Conchostraca), in New York and New Jersey
Authors: Schmidt Robert E. , Kiviat Erik
Published: January 2017

We report new records of the Clam Shrimp, Caenestheriella gynecia Mattox 1950, from three localities in the Hudson Valley of New York and one locality in northeastern New Jersey. All of our specimens were collected in puddles on dirt roads. The New Jersey specimens have meristics that are well within the range of Caenestheriella Daday 1915; however, the eastern New York specimens resemble those reported from Massachusetts with meristics that are closer to Cyzicus Audouin 1837. We hypothesize that C. gynecia was established as a parthenogenetic species due to an unlikely dispersal event in the western part of its range and has migrated eastward since the last glacial maximum. Dispersal of this species may occur by wind, in the gut of birds, or stuck to animal feet or fur, or to vehicles. We recommend that C. gynecia be treated as rare and vulnerable to extinction throughout its range unless demonstrated otherwise.
Colonization of Non-Traditional Range in Dispersing Elk, Cervus elaphus nelsoni, Populations
Authors: Van Dyke Fred
Published: January 2017

As ungulate populations increase in density on traditional range, resulting increases in intraspecific competition can encourage dispersal of some individuals to new areas. Such areas, although lower in density of conspecifics, might present unfamiliar arrays and types of habitat that could require altered patterns of home range and habitat use by dispersers. However, the specific adaptations employed by dispersers in such circumstances are not well documented or understood. I investigated three cases of range expansion by Elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) populations experiencing population growth on traditional ranges in south-central Montana, USA. Each source population produced a group that dispersed to non-traditional areas. Compared to source populations, dispersing groups increased average size of home ranges, changed patterns of use in core areas of home ranges, and used habitats differently than Elk on traditional range. Dispersing groups demonstrated fidelity to new ranges equal to that of source populations, but their seasonal tenure on non-traditional range was strongly linked to environmental conditions, especially rainfall. Dispersal of groups increased the overall range of the population and its range of habitat use. In growing populations of Elk, managers should determine if dispersing groups exist and whether they should be protected to establish new populations in marginal areas or be reduced to limit potential Elk-landowner conflicts.
Notes on Succession in Old Fields in Southeastern Ontario: the Herbs
Authors: Crowder A. , Harmsen R. , Blatt S. E.
Published: January 2017

Vegetation in abandoned hayfields was monitored during 1976-1998. An earlier successional stage followed ploughing. Changes in tree, shrub and vine populations have been reported earlier and showed expected increases in species richness and cover. Highest species richness of herbs occurred three years after ploughing. Non-woody species richness trended irregularly downward, while non-woody cover was variable, peaking in 1987. Within the herbaceous community, year-to-year changes in cover and frequency of species in the following selected groups are reported here: 18 grasses including sown and adventive species; 13 legumes including two sown species; 14 macroforbs of the Compositae, including a goldenrod, Solidago canadensis, which dominated parts of the fields; a rosette weed, Taraxacum officinalis; sedges, horsetails and some other minor components. Grasses and goldenrods were grazed, sometimes intensively and repeatedly, by insects; grasses were impacted by skipper larvae (Thymelicus lineola), and goldenrods by beetle larvae (Trirhabda spp.). Effects of repeated outbreaks on host plant cover are shown for two plots (100 m2) matching the scale of outbreaks.
Discovery of a Possibly Relict Outbreeding Morphotype of Sparrow's-egg Lady's-slipper Orchid, Cypripedium passerinum, in Southwestern Yukon
Authors: Catling Paul M. , Bennett Bruce A.
Published: January 2017

An outbreeding morphotype of Cypripedium passerinum with separate anthers and stigma was discovered in the Beringian region of southwestern Yukon. The occurrence of this breeding system in Beringia is attributed to the persistent advantage of outbreeding over hundreds of thousands of years in this unglaciated area, whereas the widespread occurrence of exclusively self-pollinating races elsewhere in Canada is attributed to advantages in colonization of recently deglaciated territory which first became available less than 10,000 years ago, and/or to a changing and more forested habitat.
Giant Beaver, Castoroides ohioensis, Remains in Canada and an Overlooked Report from Ontario
Authors: Harington C. Richard
Published: January 2017

The Giant Beaver (Castoroides ohioensis) was the largest ice age rodent in North America, reaching about the size of a Black Bear (Ursus americanus). In Canada, fossils of this species are commonly found in the Old Crow Basin, Yukon, and single specimens are known from Toronto, Ontario and Indian Island, New Brunswick. A hitherto overlooked 1891 record of a Giant Beaver skull from near Highgate, Ontario is the earliest for Canada.
A Late Born White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianus, Fawn in Southcentral Wisconsin
Authors: Jacques Christopher N. , Ishmael William E. , Van Deelen Timothy R. , Rolley Robert E.
Published: January 2017

Published reports of peak breeding and parturition dates for White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) indicate that deer in northern regions typically breed during November and give birth during late May and early June. However, we report a late-born White-tailed Deer fawn killed by a vehicle between 12-13 March 2007 in south central Wisconsin. Morphology measurements and body weight indicated the individual was 63-76 days old, was born between 26 December 2006 and 8 January 2007, and was conceived between 14-27 June 2006. To our knowledge, this observation represents the latest documented breeding activity in northern deer populations.
Movements of Transient Coyotes, Canis latrans, in Urbanized Eastern Massachusetts
Authors: Way Jonathan G.
Published: January 2017

I document the movements of five transient (or nomadic) eastern Coyotes (Canis latrans) in heavily urbanized eastern Massachusetts. Linear movements from capture location to end location varied from 23.0 to 100.5 km and averaged 63.8 ± 52.0 km for two females and 38.7 ± 17.2 km for three males (t = 0.657, df = 1.15, P = 0.618). Transients ranged in age between 1-2 yr old. There was no relationship between Coyote body weight and dispersal distances (r = 0.389, P = 0.518). Coyotes travel long distances even in human-dominated areas, allowing transients to find vacant territories. Because of the ability of Coyotes to colonize and recolonize areas, I recommend that Coyote management efforts focus more on educating the public about actual Coyote behavior and their life history needs than on killing them.
Apparent Predation of an American Water Shrew, Sorex palustris, by an American Marten, Martes americana
Authors: Powell Todd , Jung Thomas S. , Clyde Karen J.
Published: January 2017

Little is known of the natural history of American Water Shrews, Sorex palustris, including their predators. We document an apparent case of predation of an American Water Shrew by an American Marten, Martes americana, in the boreal forest of southeastern Yukon.
Bull Trout, Salvelinus confluentus, and North American Porcupine, Erethizon dorsatum, Interaction in the Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories
Authors: Cott Peter A. , Mochnacz Neil J.
Published: January 2017

Evidence of an interaction between a Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and a North American Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), was observed during a fisheries survey in the Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories. A male Bull Trout with porcupine quills imbedded in its mouth was collected. It is speculated that this occurred when the trout was aggressively defending its territory from a perceived threat – a swimming porcupine. This is the first documented account of an interaction between a fish and a porcupine.
Why do North American Red Squirrel, Tamiasciurus hudsonicus, Mothers Relocate Their Young? A Predation-based Hypothesis
Authors: Kerr Tricia , Descamps Sébastien
Published: January 2017

Our study reports the first observations consistent with Short-Tailed Weasel predation on juvenile North American Red Squirrels in the nest. Red Squirrel mothers are known to relocate their young to another nest after a disturbance. We suggest that this behaviour might be an efficient strategy that reduces the impact of litter depredation by weasels.
Abundance Trends for Hexanchus griseus, Bluntnose Sixgill Shark, and Hydrolagus colliei, Spotted Ratfish, Counted at an Automated Underwater Observation Station in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia
Authors: Dunbrack Robert
Published: January 2017

Recordings from a time lapse video monitoring station on a shallow rocky reef in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia, revealed a steep and continuous decline in the occurrence of Hexanchus griseus (Bluntnose Sixgill Shark) between 2001 and 2007, with relative abundance in 2006 and 2007 less than 1% of that in 2001. The relative abundance of another chondrichthyan, Hydrolagus colliei (Spotted Ratfish), decreased to 15% of 2004 levels in 2005 and 2006 and remained below 25% in 2007. There is no compelling explanation for these decreases. Over the past 25 years water temperatures have increased in the Strait of Georgia and there have been a number of El Niño warm water events, but diver observations of H. griseus at this site over the same time period give no indication of prior changes in abundance. Neither species is targeted by a fishery, but injuries, possibly related to hooking and entanglement, observed in 28% of individually identified H. griseus suggests this species may be taken locally as bycatch.
First Record of a Collapsed Dorsal Fin in a White-beaked Dolphin Lagenorhynchus albirostris, with a Gunshot Wound as a Possible Cause
Authors: Higdon Jeff W. , Snow Dave
Published: January 2017

Collapsed dorsal fins are rare in odontocete cetaceans, having been reported for only a few species. We present the first known case in a White-beaked Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris Gray, 1846), photographed off northern Newfoundland, Canada in September 2004. The animal also had a wound on the right side of its body, anterior to the dorsal fin, with an estimated average diameter of 20-37 mm. We consider this to be a gunshot wound, most likely a 12-gauge rifled slug. The dolphin appeared to be healthy and with no movement problems, and what was apparently the same animal was seen in the same area on several dates during 2005. There is a long history of hunting small cetaceans off the Labrador coast, and a gunshot wound is the most likely cause of the wound observed. The wound may have caused the dorsal fin to collapse, as noted in other dolphin species.
Omissions: 121(4) News; 122(2) pg 155
Authors: Cook Francis R.
Published: January 2017

Errata Canadian Field-Naturalist 121(4) omissionCanadian Association of Herpetologists Association canadien des herpetologists Bulletin 15(1) Fall 2007Errata Canadian Field-Naturalist 122(2) omissionPouliot, Yvan. 2008. Les collisions d’oiseaux à l’édifice Marly, St. Foy, Quebec, de 1978 à 2000, page 155.Remerciements: between Ouelett and Lessard add Pierre Richard.
Unpaired Drake Avoidance Behaviour and Mate Recognition by Female Mallard, Anas platyrhynchos, During the Spring Breeding Season
Authors: MacKinnon Nancy M.
Published: January 2017

An observation of a female Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) avoiding unpaired drakes, in breeding season, until reuniting with her mate after audio recognition of the rähb call. This observation supports the supposition that this vocalization by the male Mallard is a response to separation from the female and functions as a contact call in mate recognition.
Morphological Description of American Crow, Corvus brachyrhynchos, Populations in Southern Quebec
Authors: Ludwig Antoinette , Begras-Poulin Michel , Lair Stephane , Belanger Denise
Published: January 2017

The American Crow has always been a much scrutinized bird in North America but, since the emergence of West Nile Virus (WNV) in North America in 1999, public health authorities’ attention to it has been raised another notch. In Québec, like everywhere else in North America, part of the WNV surveillance programme was based on detection of WNV mortality in crow populations. During the summer of the 2005 surveillance season, we followed an age and gender determination protocol, as well as a morphological measurement protocol, on dead crows sent in for WNV status determination, to improve our knowledge of the crow population in Québec. Statistical analysis of the measurements revealed that age and gender were important factors in the morphological characterisation of the American Crow. Bill depth and head-to-bill length appeared as the most important morphological variables for gender prediction through a discriminant function analysis. We also realized that, in adult age groups, our WNV positive carcasses had lower mean weights than carcasses that tested negative for WNV, in adult age groups.Depuis toujours, la corneille d’Amérique est un oiseau très étudié, mais, depuis l’apparition du virus du Nil occidental (VNO) en Amérique du Nord en 1999, l’attention des autorités en santé publique sur cet oiseau a encore augmenté. Au Québec, comme ailleurs en Amérique du Nord, une part importante du programme de surveillance pour la détection du VNO a été basée sur la détection des mortalités liées au VNO dans les populations de corneilles. Pour améliorer notre connaissance de cette espèce au Québec, nous avons mis à profit la récolte des carcasses au cours de l’été 2005 dans le cadre du programme de surveillance en instaurant un protocole de détermination de l’âge, du genre ainsi qu’une prise des mesures morphologiques sur ces mêmes carcasses. L’analyse statistique des résultats a montré qu’à la fois l’âge et le genre étaient des facteurs importants dans la caractérisation morphologique de la corneille d’Amérique. À l’aide de l’analyse discriminante, il est apparu que la profondeur du bec ainsi que la distance tête-bec étaient les mesures les plus importantes pour prédire le genre de l’oiseau. Nos analyses nous ont également permis d’observer que, dans les groupes d’oiseaux adultes, les carcasses positives pour le VNO étaient en moyenne moins lourdes que les carcasses négatives.
Sexual Size Dimorphism and Bohemian Waxwings, Bombycilla garrulus
Authors: Ludlow Sarah M.
Published: January 2017

Sexual size dimorphism is common among birds, with males generally being larger than females. Sexual size dimorphism is typically more extreme in polygynous species; socially monogamous males are typically only 5% larger than females. However, cryptic sexual size dimorphism has been found in some socially monogamous species. I used standard external measurements as well as two internal measurements (keel length and pectoral muscle mass) to determine whether, or to what extent, Bohemian Waxwings (Bombycilla garrulus) exhibit sexual size dimorphism. Males were only slightly larger than females in all of the characters measured except keel and tarsus length. Keel and tarsus length were 0.6% and 1% longer, respectively, in females than in males. The similar size exhibited by males and females may be related to the amount of parental care provided by males. Smaller body size in males may reflect a trade-off between selection for increased male size and energetic constraints imposed by parental care.
Persistence of a Reintroduced Fisher, Martes pennanti, Population in Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, Central Alberta
Authors: Proulx Gilbert , Genereux Brian
Published: January 2017

In order to confirm the persistence of a Fisher (Martes pennanti) population reintroduced in 1990 in Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, central Alberta, we inventoried trails in the winters of 2006 and 2007. We recorded the presence of Fishers in 16 locations, and we confirmed the presence of at least two animals. We believe that the presence of Fishers 17 years after their release in the recreation area indicates that there is a self-sustaining population.
Slender Moonwort, Botrychium lineare (Ophioglossaceae), Rediscovered in Quebec
Authors: Cayouette Jacques , Farrar Donald R.
Published: January 2017

Slender Moonwort (Botrychium lineare), described in 1994, is a very rare fern in eastern North America. It was known in Quebec, Canada, from only two sites in the Gaspé Peninsula but has not been relocated since its discovery at these sites in 1902 and 1942. An ongoing study of B. lineare and its recent discovery in northern Minnesota prompted a re-examination of a 1972 collection made in western Quebec, in Gatineau Park, previously identified under various names, including B. campestre. A recent visit (2008) to the Gatineau Park site disclosed continued presence of similar plants. Based on morphological characters, spore size, genotype (allozyme electrophoresis), and appropriate habitat features, we conclude that the newly discovered plants and those of the 1972 collection are B. lineare. B. lineare appears on the Quebec government list of plant species likely to be designated threatened or vulnerable.