The document summarizes the results of waterbird surveys conducted before, during, and after a V8 Supercar race event near the Waterbird Refuge wetland in Sydney Olympic Park. The surveys found that waterbird species richness and abundances were similar across survey periods and showed expected daily and tidal patterns. Numbers of key species like teals and shorebirds at roost were generally stable or higher during the race event compared to before. This demonstrated that the race event did not significantly disturb or impact waterbird use of this important habitat.
This document discusses developing a mathematical model to assess the collision risk of fish and marine mammals with horizontal tidal stream turbines in Scottish waters. The model calculates collision risk in two stages: 1) estimating the number of animals swimming through the rotor area, and 2) calculating the probability of animals being hit while passing through. Key factors influencing collision risk are species behaviors and distributions, turbine characteristics, hearing sensitivity, and visibility conditions. Further research is still needed, especially for large species and slow swimmers. Mitigation options like site selection and device visibility may help reduce risks.
This study examined the impact of human disturbance on waterfowl diversity at two sites within the Wilderness Lakes System in South Africa. Abundance, diversity, and species richness were significantly higher at Rondevlei lake, which prohibits water activities, than at Touw River, which allows limited recreation. A total of 35 waterbird species were observed, but only 11 were found at both sites. Red-knobbed coot was the most abundant species overall. Human disturbance events were more common and potentially disturbing to waterfowl at Touw River than Rondevlei. The results provide evidence that human disturbances negatively impact the waterfowl community at Touw River relative to the protected Rondevlei lake.
Montoya-maya - 2009 - DYNAMICS OF LARVAL FISH AND ZOOPLANKTON IN SELECTED SOU...Phanor Montoya-Maya
This thesis studied the larval fish and zooplankton assemblages in nine south and west coast estuaries of South Africa between June 2003 and March 2004. A total of 49,274 larval fish from 47 taxa and 44 zooplankton taxa were collected. The clupeid Gilchristella aestuaria dominated the larval fish catches, comprising 78.8% of individuals. Copepods dominated the zooplankton, with Pseudodiaptomus hessei comprising 59% of individuals. Larval fish and zooplankton abundances varied seasonally and spatially within estuaries. Environmental factors like freshwater input, estuary type, and biogeography
Fishery-dependent data collection provides valuable information for fishery managers to develop management plans. It is important for managers to determine the most important data to collect and implement a data recording system before overfishing occurs. One common mistake is waiting until populations are imperiled before creating management plans. This document discusses various methods for collecting fishery-dependent data, including catch estimates, catch disposition, catch per unit effort (CPUE), and fishing effort measures. It provides examples of calculating CPUE for different gear types like gill nets and longlines. The document also covers raising factors used to expand sample data to total population estimates.
Book chapter on fish by Ankita (kinka) MitraAbhijit Mitra
This document analyzes the condition factor of 14 commercially important fish species collected from two estuaries in the lower Gangetic delta region of India - the Hooghly estuary and Matla estuary. The Hooghly estuary has lower salinity due to freshwater discharge, while the Matla estuary is hyper saline with no freshwater input. Condition factors were higher for all fish species collected from the Hooghly estuary, indicating that higher salinity adversely affects fish growth and condition. Long-term changes in salinity due to climate change and other factors could significantly impact the fisheries of this region.
A Quantitative Study of the Productivity of the Foraminifera in the SeaNicha Tatsaneeyapan
This study analyzed samples of the foraminifera Elphidium crispum taken monthly from tide pools and subtidal zones near Plymouth, England over 12 months. Chamber counts from over 500 individuals revealed life spans are usually 1 year in tide pools and 2 years including sexual and asexual phases below low tide. Growth is limited to spring and summer, and the subtidal zone saw 40% faster growth and 60% larger tests. Sexual and asexual reproduction occurred in March-April, with some asexual reproduction in September. Annual population increases were estimated at 30-fold in tide pools and 40-fold subtidally based on juvenile production and microspheric to megalospheric ratios. Populations exceeded 1
1. The document analyzes the impact of large woody debris (LWD) on populations of Chironomidae larvae, an important food source for juvenile salmonids, at Spencer Island in Everett, WA.
2. The author hypothesizes that sampling near LWD structures will yield greater numbers of Chironomidae larvae than samples taken farther from LWD, since LWD provides prime habitat.
3. Spencer Island plays an important ecological role as estuarine habitat for juvenile salmonids and waterfowl, making it a useful study site for analyzing the relationship between LWD and invertebrate communities that support fish.
University Of Glasgow Iceland Expedition 2008Skalanes
The document summarizes research conducted by the University of Glasgow Iceland Expedition at Skalanes Nature Reserve in 2008. The expedition aimed to study the reserve's flora and fauna to support sustainable tourism and education. Projects included creating bird guides, monitoring seabird populations like Arctic terns, and investigating vegetation like Arctic lupine. Methodologies were tested to routinely survey bird populations and monitor changes over time. The research helped develop the reserve's management plan and provided educational materials for visitors.
This document discusses developing a mathematical model to assess the collision risk of fish and marine mammals with horizontal tidal stream turbines in Scottish waters. The model calculates collision risk in two stages: 1) estimating the number of animals swimming through the rotor area, and 2) calculating the probability of animals being hit while passing through. Key factors influencing collision risk are species behaviors and distributions, turbine characteristics, hearing sensitivity, and visibility conditions. Further research is still needed, especially for large species and slow swimmers. Mitigation options like site selection and device visibility may help reduce risks.
This study examined the impact of human disturbance on waterfowl diversity at two sites within the Wilderness Lakes System in South Africa. Abundance, diversity, and species richness were significantly higher at Rondevlei lake, which prohibits water activities, than at Touw River, which allows limited recreation. A total of 35 waterbird species were observed, but only 11 were found at both sites. Red-knobbed coot was the most abundant species overall. Human disturbance events were more common and potentially disturbing to waterfowl at Touw River than Rondevlei. The results provide evidence that human disturbances negatively impact the waterfowl community at Touw River relative to the protected Rondevlei lake.
Montoya-maya - 2009 - DYNAMICS OF LARVAL FISH AND ZOOPLANKTON IN SELECTED SOU...Phanor Montoya-Maya
This thesis studied the larval fish and zooplankton assemblages in nine south and west coast estuaries of South Africa between June 2003 and March 2004. A total of 49,274 larval fish from 47 taxa and 44 zooplankton taxa were collected. The clupeid Gilchristella aestuaria dominated the larval fish catches, comprising 78.8% of individuals. Copepods dominated the zooplankton, with Pseudodiaptomus hessei comprising 59% of individuals. Larval fish and zooplankton abundances varied seasonally and spatially within estuaries. Environmental factors like freshwater input, estuary type, and biogeography
Fishery-dependent data collection provides valuable information for fishery managers to develop management plans. It is important for managers to determine the most important data to collect and implement a data recording system before overfishing occurs. One common mistake is waiting until populations are imperiled before creating management plans. This document discusses various methods for collecting fishery-dependent data, including catch estimates, catch disposition, catch per unit effort (CPUE), and fishing effort measures. It provides examples of calculating CPUE for different gear types like gill nets and longlines. The document also covers raising factors used to expand sample data to total population estimates.
Book chapter on fish by Ankita (kinka) MitraAbhijit Mitra
This document analyzes the condition factor of 14 commercially important fish species collected from two estuaries in the lower Gangetic delta region of India - the Hooghly estuary and Matla estuary. The Hooghly estuary has lower salinity due to freshwater discharge, while the Matla estuary is hyper saline with no freshwater input. Condition factors were higher for all fish species collected from the Hooghly estuary, indicating that higher salinity adversely affects fish growth and condition. Long-term changes in salinity due to climate change and other factors could significantly impact the fisheries of this region.
A Quantitative Study of the Productivity of the Foraminifera in the SeaNicha Tatsaneeyapan
This study analyzed samples of the foraminifera Elphidium crispum taken monthly from tide pools and subtidal zones near Plymouth, England over 12 months. Chamber counts from over 500 individuals revealed life spans are usually 1 year in tide pools and 2 years including sexual and asexual phases below low tide. Growth is limited to spring and summer, and the subtidal zone saw 40% faster growth and 60% larger tests. Sexual and asexual reproduction occurred in March-April, with some asexual reproduction in September. Annual population increases were estimated at 30-fold in tide pools and 40-fold subtidally based on juvenile production and microspheric to megalospheric ratios. Populations exceeded 1
1. The document analyzes the impact of large woody debris (LWD) on populations of Chironomidae larvae, an important food source for juvenile salmonids, at Spencer Island in Everett, WA.
2. The author hypothesizes that sampling near LWD structures will yield greater numbers of Chironomidae larvae than samples taken farther from LWD, since LWD provides prime habitat.
3. Spencer Island plays an important ecological role as estuarine habitat for juvenile salmonids and waterfowl, making it a useful study site for analyzing the relationship between LWD and invertebrate communities that support fish.
University Of Glasgow Iceland Expedition 2008Skalanes
The document summarizes research conducted by the University of Glasgow Iceland Expedition at Skalanes Nature Reserve in 2008. The expedition aimed to study the reserve's flora and fauna to support sustainable tourism and education. Projects included creating bird guides, monitoring seabird populations like Arctic terns, and investigating vegetation like Arctic lupine. Methodologies were tested to routinely survey bird populations and monitor changes over time. The research helped develop the reserve's management plan and provided educational materials for visitors.
This document provides an introduction to fish stock assessment and key concepts. It discusses the primary objective of fish stock assessment as determining the optimal exploitation level to achieve maximum sustainable yield. It defines the stock concept as a subset of a species inhabiting a particular area with consistent growth and mortality parameters. The document emphasizes that fish stock assessment should be performed separately for each identified stock.
The document discusses the range dynamics of the invasive zebra mussel in North America. It describes several hypotheses for the main drivers of zebra mussel range expansion, including recreational boating, environmental conditions, dispersal within connected water bodies, and the role of dams and impoundments. The document also examines debates around limitations to zebra mussel populations from factors like food availability and suitable substrate. Overall, it argues that the range dynamics of zebra mussels result from both human activities and environmental conditions, not just one or the other.
Length-weight models and condition factors of fishes from Okpara Stream, Ouem...AI Publications
Length frequency distributions, length-weight models and condition factors of 21 dominant fish species of the Okpara stream (Oueme River) were examined in Northern-Benin in order to evaluate the well-being of these fish taxa. Samplings were made monthly from December 2015 to May 2017 with seines, gill nets hawks and a total of 9,302 individuals were collected. Fish abundance ranged from 53 individuals for Mormyrus rume to 2,818 for Hemichromis fasciatus. Standard length (SL) varied from 1.2 cm (Coptodon guineensis) to 51.8 cm (Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus). Length-weight regressions equations showed significant (p < 0.05) correlation coefficients (r) ranging between 0.4664 and 0.9949 with slopes (b) between 2.2262 and 3.7703 corresponding to isometric, positive allometric and negative allometric growths displayed by 4, 8 and 9 species, respectively. Condition factors K varied between 0.17 - 29.38 and species with higher well-being were Oreochromis niloticus with K=29.38, Hyperopisius bebe (K=20.14), Coptodon zillii (K=19.25), Mormyrus rume (K=17.13) and Sarotherodon galilaeus multifasciatus (K=16.16). A sustainable exploitation of these fishes requires an ecosystem restoration scheme including habitat protection, species conservation and an ecological follow-up of the Okpara stream.
This study examined abiotic and biotic factors in mangrove creeks on Eleuthera, Bahamas to determine ideal nursery habitats for inclusion in marine protected areas. Fish abundance and diversity were used to assess nursery quality. Larger creek mouth widths correlated with higher fish diversity but lower abundance, possibly due to increased predation. Contrary to hypotheses, prop root density did not affect nursery quality. All creeks provided similar nursery functions due to limited disturbances. Protecting these critical habitats is important for sustaining fish populations.
Time of day influences foraging behavior of waterbirds in the Kruger National...Joseph Galaske
This project, conducted under the supervision of Mduduzi Ndlovu Ph.D., was conducted within the Kruger National Park and looked at foraging behavior of waterbirds in response to time of day. Our results present evidence that time of day mediates foraging activity and supports the optimal foraging theory for waterbirds found in the Kruger National Park.
Utilization of Multiple Habitat Sampling Protocol for Macroinvertebrates as Indicators of Water
Quality in Stream Ecosystem in Lawis,
Buruun, Iligan City
First record of invasive croaking gourami, Trichopsis vittata (Cuvier 1831) ...Shoaibe H T Shefat
This document reports on the first record of the invasive croaking gourami fish, Trichopsis vittata, in the Feni-Muhuri river system in southeastern Bangladesh. Eighteen individuals were collected between December 2017 and August 2018. Measurements and counts of physical features confirmed the species. While the impact on native fish is unknown, T. vittata is spreading rapidly across Bangladesh and likely competes with native species for food and habitat. The source of its introduction, whether from aquariums or aquaculture, remains unclear. Further research is needed to understand its ecological effects and inform proper management.
Lavides et al 2016_reef fish disappearances Philippines_Plos One.PDFMargarita Lavides
This document summarizes a research article that uses fishers' knowledge to infer patterns of disappearance of coral reef finfish species in five marine biodiversity areas in the Philippines. Through interviews with over 2,600 fishers, the study identified 59 finfish species that have disappeared from catches between the 1950s and 2014. Five species that were reported to have zero catches by the most fishers were analyzed in more detail. Statistical models estimated an 88% decline in the catch of green bumphead parrotfish, an 82% decline in humphead wrasse, a 66% decline in African pompano, a 74% decline in giant grouper, and a 64% decline in mangrove red snapper based on
The document summarizes a PhD study investigating the impacts of invasive riparian plants on juvenile salmonids in low order streams. The study monitored 24 sites across 6 rivers, with paired control and treatment sites where invasive plant coverage exceeded 50%. Over two years, the study collected biotic and abiotic samples to assess differences between native and invaded sites, including fish surveys, invertebrate samples, and vegetation surveys. Preliminary analysis found invasive cover had no effect on overall fish biomass or diet, but positively influenced salmon density and negatively influenced trout density, possibly due to differences in habitat preferences between the two species under conditions of bank instability from plant dieback. Further analysis of samples is ongoing to better understand impacts on a fine scale
Seasonal diversity of diving birds in the Periyakulam Lake, Tiruchirappalli, ...cormorantmohanraj
S. Mohanraj and J. Pandiyan*
PG Research Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology, AVC College Mannampandal, Mayiladuthuari - 609 305.
Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
Wetlands are the major feeding habitats for water birds. The water birds were estimated weekly by using total count
method during 06.00 am to 06.00 pm. Totally seven species of diving birds were observed from Junuary-2011 to December2012. The overall diving bird density was recorded maximum during the monsoon period of Year I and Year II i.e.
261.33±41.345/ha and 428.72±49.388/ha respectively. The density, diversity and species richness varied significantly
between the years and among the seasons (P<0.05). The present study proves the Periyakulam lake is one of the viable
habitats for the diving bird population.
This document is a glossary of fisheries terms published by NOAA Fisheries. It contains definitions of over 60 common fisheries-related terms starting with A, such as abundance, anadromous, aquaculture, assessment and associated species. The glossary provides concise explanations of technical terms to facilitate communication about fisheries science and management. It is intended to help the general public and professionals in other fields understand the language used by NOAA Fisheries in their work.
This study evaluated the impact of pumping fresh water into Biscayne Bay near the Deering Estate to address rising salinity levels. Macroalgae and seagrass communities were monitored as indicators of ecological change. After fresh water flooding, sites separated into distinct pre- and post-flooding clusters. Relative frequencies suggested a shift toward more brackish-tolerant species and decline in marine species. Nutrient analysis found higher nitrogen levels in macroalgae like Ulva ohnoi and in seagrasses near fresh water sources, indicating flooding increased nutrient availability. Continued monitoring will compare results to previous studies to further assess flooding impacts.
Moderate anthropogenic noise may disrupt foraging activity in whales and dolphins. Recent research has shown subtle behavioral responses to moderate noise levels, including interruptions to foraging. Repeated observations have found decreased foraging and animals remaining near the surface in response to activities like seismic airgun surveys, sonar, and boat noise. Foraging disruptions are a concern as they could negatively impact long-term individual and population health by reducing energy intake. More research is needed to better understand impacts, especially given inconsistent propagation patterns and variable responses observed between individuals and species. Systemic approaches that consider different levels of response across noise levels may provide a precautionary way to assess impacts until knowledge gaps are addressed.
Interactions and space-use overlap between satellite-tracked blue sharks and ...ecologiaazul
This study used satellite tracking of blue sharks and vessel monitoring data from longline fishing boats to analyze interactions between the two in the northeast Atlantic Ocean. 32 blue sharks were tagged with satellite transmitters and their movements were mapped. 103 longline fishing boats were also tracked over several years. The results showed spatial and temporal overlap between some of the sharks and fishing locations. Specifically, 5 of the 17 successfully tracked sharks spent at least one day in areas with longline fishing activity, with one shark spending up to 3 days in risky areas. Two sharks were actually caught by surface longlines during the study. This analysis provides insights into how pelagic fishing fleets and shark distributions interact that could inform management strategies to reduce bycatch.
Occurrence patterns of alien freshwater turtles in a large urban pond 'Archip...Maria Paola Di Santo
The patterns of the occurrence and distribution of alien freshwater turtle species in an urban pond archipelago (Rome, Italy) were analysed, with the aim of exploring the role of a set of factors (type of ponds, landscape context, size area, distance from the nearest road) with a generalized linear model approach. A total of 311 ponds subdivided in three types (fountains, small basins, lakes) embedded in different landscape contexts (public parks, private parks, urban areas) at differing distances from the nearest road were sampled. Six non-native freshwater turtle species in 31 sites were recorded (9.97%). Lakes exhibited the highest occurrence rates of alien freshwater turtles, compared to small basins and fountains. Freshwater turtle species in urbanized areas were only observed in parks (both public and private). In both the public and private parks, the lakes exhibited the highest percentage of occupied sites, with fountains being the lowest. A direct and significant relationship was observed between pond size and species richness. The distance from the nearest road did not appear to affect species richness. A first interpretation of the data from this study facilitated the postulation of two a posteriori hypotheses that should be tested, as follows: (i) the causal process of turtle release is random, and the rate of extinction (and recapture) is higher in smaller ponds, thus producing the observed pattern; and (ii) the turtle release is not random, and people actively select the ponds they consider more suitable for their pet animals. In this study, it appears the lakes were perceived by those who abandon their pets as the most ecologically suitable habitats among other pond types to accommodate the different species of turtles. Knowledge of people's attitudes in regard to releasing pet animals also might assist managers of public green spaces to develop strategies aimed to preserve local biodiversity, and to educate the public about the conservation issue represented by the alien species.
This dissertation examines reef fish communities associated with mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) between 40-70 meters deep off La Parguera, Puerto Rico. 103 fish species from 6 locations were identified through surveys. The MCE fish assemblage differed from shallow reefs with varying composition, abundance, and trophic guild proportions with depth. Most fishes were shallow species, but some were restricted to mesophotic depths. Abundance and species richness were high within MCEs. Zooplanktivores dominated MCEs while herbivores dominated shallow reefs. Connectivity between shallow and deep habitats was significant in both directions for some species. Topographic complexity was found to be an important factor
1) The study evaluated the effectiveness of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Puget Sound, Washington by surveying intertidal communities and assessing MPA management strategies.
2) Intertidal communities were generally similar between protected and unprotected sites, though some species like mussels and mites were more abundant in MPAs. Invertebrate diversity increased with stronger management strategies focused on planning.
3) While MPA designation provided some benefits, intertidal communities did not strongly respond to different management components. Comprehensive management addressing all stressors may be needed to fully protect intertidal biodiversity in Puget Sound MPAs.
1. This document analyzes differences in physiological characteristics like condition factor and smolt index between landlocked Atlantic salmon reared at two Vermont hatcheries (ENFH and EWFCS) and wild salmon in the Huntington River.
2. Fish were sampled from the hatcheries and river over multiple months in 2011-2012. ENFH fish had a lower average condition factor than EWFCS fish. Both hatcheries' fish had higher condition factors than wild fish, though ENFH fish more closely resembled wild ones.
3. Rearing practices that minimize physiological differences between hatchery and wild salmon will increase stocked fish survival and support salmon population recovery in Vermont waters.
The study identified 12 species of copepods from 4 freshwater lakes in periurban areas near Chennai, India. 8 species of cyclopoid copepods and 4 species of calanoid copepods were found. Diaptomus sicilis, first reported from Madipakkam lake, was the dominant copepod species there. The occurrence of copepods, particularly calanoids, depended on the size of the water body as well as the pH and dissolved oxygen concentrations. Mesocyclops aspericornis, identified as a pollution indicator species, was present in all 4 lakes.
The study examined the spatial and temporal distribution of native and alien fish larvae (ichthyoplankton) in three habitat types (marsh edge, shallow open water, and river channel) across one natural and three restored marshes in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta over two years. More than 25,000 fish larvae from 10 families were collected, with the assemblage dominated by alien fishes overall but with natives more abundant in winter/spring and aliens in summer. Abundance was highest in marsh edge habitats, suggesting it provides favorable rearing habitat. Restored sites varied in ichthyoplankton abundance depending on configuration, with the site having minimal tidal exchange and greater lower trophic productivity supporting
The document is a proposal from SmartClub Consulting to the General Manager of The University of Texas Golf Club regarding a mobile technology needs assessment. It outlines SmartClub's services to integrate mobile applications and platforms to streamline communications between the club and its members. This would be done through features like push notifications, online reservations, food/beverage ordering, and social media management. It is estimated that these technologies could increase event attendance, transactions, and revenue for the club while improving operational efficiencies. The proposal provides details on implementation, timelines, costs, and references from other clubs that have worked with SmartClub.
The goal of the Upperclass Experience is to help students further develop their personal visions from sophomore year and turn them into reality. Upperclass staff members aim to create an environment where juniors and seniors can focus on their visions while gaining experiences to prepare for life after graduation. Resources and mentors are available from various sources across campus like academic departments, career centers, residence life, and student organizations.
This document provides an introduction to fish stock assessment and key concepts. It discusses the primary objective of fish stock assessment as determining the optimal exploitation level to achieve maximum sustainable yield. It defines the stock concept as a subset of a species inhabiting a particular area with consistent growth and mortality parameters. The document emphasizes that fish stock assessment should be performed separately for each identified stock.
The document discusses the range dynamics of the invasive zebra mussel in North America. It describes several hypotheses for the main drivers of zebra mussel range expansion, including recreational boating, environmental conditions, dispersal within connected water bodies, and the role of dams and impoundments. The document also examines debates around limitations to zebra mussel populations from factors like food availability and suitable substrate. Overall, it argues that the range dynamics of zebra mussels result from both human activities and environmental conditions, not just one or the other.
Length-weight models and condition factors of fishes from Okpara Stream, Ouem...AI Publications
Length frequency distributions, length-weight models and condition factors of 21 dominant fish species of the Okpara stream (Oueme River) were examined in Northern-Benin in order to evaluate the well-being of these fish taxa. Samplings were made monthly from December 2015 to May 2017 with seines, gill nets hawks and a total of 9,302 individuals were collected. Fish abundance ranged from 53 individuals for Mormyrus rume to 2,818 for Hemichromis fasciatus. Standard length (SL) varied from 1.2 cm (Coptodon guineensis) to 51.8 cm (Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus). Length-weight regressions equations showed significant (p < 0.05) correlation coefficients (r) ranging between 0.4664 and 0.9949 with slopes (b) between 2.2262 and 3.7703 corresponding to isometric, positive allometric and negative allometric growths displayed by 4, 8 and 9 species, respectively. Condition factors K varied between 0.17 - 29.38 and species with higher well-being were Oreochromis niloticus with K=29.38, Hyperopisius bebe (K=20.14), Coptodon zillii (K=19.25), Mormyrus rume (K=17.13) and Sarotherodon galilaeus multifasciatus (K=16.16). A sustainable exploitation of these fishes requires an ecosystem restoration scheme including habitat protection, species conservation and an ecological follow-up of the Okpara stream.
This study examined abiotic and biotic factors in mangrove creeks on Eleuthera, Bahamas to determine ideal nursery habitats for inclusion in marine protected areas. Fish abundance and diversity were used to assess nursery quality. Larger creek mouth widths correlated with higher fish diversity but lower abundance, possibly due to increased predation. Contrary to hypotheses, prop root density did not affect nursery quality. All creeks provided similar nursery functions due to limited disturbances. Protecting these critical habitats is important for sustaining fish populations.
Time of day influences foraging behavior of waterbirds in the Kruger National...Joseph Galaske
This project, conducted under the supervision of Mduduzi Ndlovu Ph.D., was conducted within the Kruger National Park and looked at foraging behavior of waterbirds in response to time of day. Our results present evidence that time of day mediates foraging activity and supports the optimal foraging theory for waterbirds found in the Kruger National Park.
Utilization of Multiple Habitat Sampling Protocol for Macroinvertebrates as Indicators of Water
Quality in Stream Ecosystem in Lawis,
Buruun, Iligan City
First record of invasive croaking gourami, Trichopsis vittata (Cuvier 1831) ...Shoaibe H T Shefat
This document reports on the first record of the invasive croaking gourami fish, Trichopsis vittata, in the Feni-Muhuri river system in southeastern Bangladesh. Eighteen individuals were collected between December 2017 and August 2018. Measurements and counts of physical features confirmed the species. While the impact on native fish is unknown, T. vittata is spreading rapidly across Bangladesh and likely competes with native species for food and habitat. The source of its introduction, whether from aquariums or aquaculture, remains unclear. Further research is needed to understand its ecological effects and inform proper management.
Lavides et al 2016_reef fish disappearances Philippines_Plos One.PDFMargarita Lavides
This document summarizes a research article that uses fishers' knowledge to infer patterns of disappearance of coral reef finfish species in five marine biodiversity areas in the Philippines. Through interviews with over 2,600 fishers, the study identified 59 finfish species that have disappeared from catches between the 1950s and 2014. Five species that were reported to have zero catches by the most fishers were analyzed in more detail. Statistical models estimated an 88% decline in the catch of green bumphead parrotfish, an 82% decline in humphead wrasse, a 66% decline in African pompano, a 74% decline in giant grouper, and a 64% decline in mangrove red snapper based on
The document summarizes a PhD study investigating the impacts of invasive riparian plants on juvenile salmonids in low order streams. The study monitored 24 sites across 6 rivers, with paired control and treatment sites where invasive plant coverage exceeded 50%. Over two years, the study collected biotic and abiotic samples to assess differences between native and invaded sites, including fish surveys, invertebrate samples, and vegetation surveys. Preliminary analysis found invasive cover had no effect on overall fish biomass or diet, but positively influenced salmon density and negatively influenced trout density, possibly due to differences in habitat preferences between the two species under conditions of bank instability from plant dieback. Further analysis of samples is ongoing to better understand impacts on a fine scale
Seasonal diversity of diving birds in the Periyakulam Lake, Tiruchirappalli, ...cormorantmohanraj
S. Mohanraj and J. Pandiyan*
PG Research Department of Zoology and Wildlife Biology, AVC College Mannampandal, Mayiladuthuari - 609 305.
Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract
Wetlands are the major feeding habitats for water birds. The water birds were estimated weekly by using total count
method during 06.00 am to 06.00 pm. Totally seven species of diving birds were observed from Junuary-2011 to December2012. The overall diving bird density was recorded maximum during the monsoon period of Year I and Year II i.e.
261.33±41.345/ha and 428.72±49.388/ha respectively. The density, diversity and species richness varied significantly
between the years and among the seasons (P<0.05). The present study proves the Periyakulam lake is one of the viable
habitats for the diving bird population.
This document is a glossary of fisheries terms published by NOAA Fisheries. It contains definitions of over 60 common fisheries-related terms starting with A, such as abundance, anadromous, aquaculture, assessment and associated species. The glossary provides concise explanations of technical terms to facilitate communication about fisheries science and management. It is intended to help the general public and professionals in other fields understand the language used by NOAA Fisheries in their work.
This study evaluated the impact of pumping fresh water into Biscayne Bay near the Deering Estate to address rising salinity levels. Macroalgae and seagrass communities were monitored as indicators of ecological change. After fresh water flooding, sites separated into distinct pre- and post-flooding clusters. Relative frequencies suggested a shift toward more brackish-tolerant species and decline in marine species. Nutrient analysis found higher nitrogen levels in macroalgae like Ulva ohnoi and in seagrasses near fresh water sources, indicating flooding increased nutrient availability. Continued monitoring will compare results to previous studies to further assess flooding impacts.
Moderate anthropogenic noise may disrupt foraging activity in whales and dolphins. Recent research has shown subtle behavioral responses to moderate noise levels, including interruptions to foraging. Repeated observations have found decreased foraging and animals remaining near the surface in response to activities like seismic airgun surveys, sonar, and boat noise. Foraging disruptions are a concern as they could negatively impact long-term individual and population health by reducing energy intake. More research is needed to better understand impacts, especially given inconsistent propagation patterns and variable responses observed between individuals and species. Systemic approaches that consider different levels of response across noise levels may provide a precautionary way to assess impacts until knowledge gaps are addressed.
Interactions and space-use overlap between satellite-tracked blue sharks and ...ecologiaazul
This study used satellite tracking of blue sharks and vessel monitoring data from longline fishing boats to analyze interactions between the two in the northeast Atlantic Ocean. 32 blue sharks were tagged with satellite transmitters and their movements were mapped. 103 longline fishing boats were also tracked over several years. The results showed spatial and temporal overlap between some of the sharks and fishing locations. Specifically, 5 of the 17 successfully tracked sharks spent at least one day in areas with longline fishing activity, with one shark spending up to 3 days in risky areas. Two sharks were actually caught by surface longlines during the study. This analysis provides insights into how pelagic fishing fleets and shark distributions interact that could inform management strategies to reduce bycatch.
Occurrence patterns of alien freshwater turtles in a large urban pond 'Archip...Maria Paola Di Santo
The patterns of the occurrence and distribution of alien freshwater turtle species in an urban pond archipelago (Rome, Italy) were analysed, with the aim of exploring the role of a set of factors (type of ponds, landscape context, size area, distance from the nearest road) with a generalized linear model approach. A total of 311 ponds subdivided in three types (fountains, small basins, lakes) embedded in different landscape contexts (public parks, private parks, urban areas) at differing distances from the nearest road were sampled. Six non-native freshwater turtle species in 31 sites were recorded (9.97%). Lakes exhibited the highest occurrence rates of alien freshwater turtles, compared to small basins and fountains. Freshwater turtle species in urbanized areas were only observed in parks (both public and private). In both the public and private parks, the lakes exhibited the highest percentage of occupied sites, with fountains being the lowest. A direct and significant relationship was observed between pond size and species richness. The distance from the nearest road did not appear to affect species richness. A first interpretation of the data from this study facilitated the postulation of two a posteriori hypotheses that should be tested, as follows: (i) the causal process of turtle release is random, and the rate of extinction (and recapture) is higher in smaller ponds, thus producing the observed pattern; and (ii) the turtle release is not random, and people actively select the ponds they consider more suitable for their pet animals. In this study, it appears the lakes were perceived by those who abandon their pets as the most ecologically suitable habitats among other pond types to accommodate the different species of turtles. Knowledge of people's attitudes in regard to releasing pet animals also might assist managers of public green spaces to develop strategies aimed to preserve local biodiversity, and to educate the public about the conservation issue represented by the alien species.
This dissertation examines reef fish communities associated with mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) between 40-70 meters deep off La Parguera, Puerto Rico. 103 fish species from 6 locations were identified through surveys. The MCE fish assemblage differed from shallow reefs with varying composition, abundance, and trophic guild proportions with depth. Most fishes were shallow species, but some were restricted to mesophotic depths. Abundance and species richness were high within MCEs. Zooplanktivores dominated MCEs while herbivores dominated shallow reefs. Connectivity between shallow and deep habitats was significant in both directions for some species. Topographic complexity was found to be an important factor
1) The study evaluated the effectiveness of marine protected areas (MPAs) in Puget Sound, Washington by surveying intertidal communities and assessing MPA management strategies.
2) Intertidal communities were generally similar between protected and unprotected sites, though some species like mussels and mites were more abundant in MPAs. Invertebrate diversity increased with stronger management strategies focused on planning.
3) While MPA designation provided some benefits, intertidal communities did not strongly respond to different management components. Comprehensive management addressing all stressors may be needed to fully protect intertidal biodiversity in Puget Sound MPAs.
1. This document analyzes differences in physiological characteristics like condition factor and smolt index between landlocked Atlantic salmon reared at two Vermont hatcheries (ENFH and EWFCS) and wild salmon in the Huntington River.
2. Fish were sampled from the hatcheries and river over multiple months in 2011-2012. ENFH fish had a lower average condition factor than EWFCS fish. Both hatcheries' fish had higher condition factors than wild fish, though ENFH fish more closely resembled wild ones.
3. Rearing practices that minimize physiological differences between hatchery and wild salmon will increase stocked fish survival and support salmon population recovery in Vermont waters.
The study identified 12 species of copepods from 4 freshwater lakes in periurban areas near Chennai, India. 8 species of cyclopoid copepods and 4 species of calanoid copepods were found. Diaptomus sicilis, first reported from Madipakkam lake, was the dominant copepod species there. The occurrence of copepods, particularly calanoids, depended on the size of the water body as well as the pH and dissolved oxygen concentrations. Mesocyclops aspericornis, identified as a pollution indicator species, was present in all 4 lakes.
The study examined the spatial and temporal distribution of native and alien fish larvae (ichthyoplankton) in three habitat types (marsh edge, shallow open water, and river channel) across one natural and three restored marshes in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta over two years. More than 25,000 fish larvae from 10 families were collected, with the assemblage dominated by alien fishes overall but with natives more abundant in winter/spring and aliens in summer. Abundance was highest in marsh edge habitats, suggesting it provides favorable rearing habitat. Restored sites varied in ichthyoplankton abundance depending on configuration, with the site having minimal tidal exchange and greater lower trophic productivity supporting
The document is a proposal from SmartClub Consulting to the General Manager of The University of Texas Golf Club regarding a mobile technology needs assessment. It outlines SmartClub's services to integrate mobile applications and platforms to streamline communications between the club and its members. This would be done through features like push notifications, online reservations, food/beverage ordering, and social media management. It is estimated that these technologies could increase event attendance, transactions, and revenue for the club while improving operational efficiencies. The proposal provides details on implementation, timelines, costs, and references from other clubs that have worked with SmartClub.
The goal of the Upperclass Experience is to help students further develop their personal visions from sophomore year and turn them into reality. Upperclass staff members aim to create an environment where juniors and seniors can focus on their visions while gaining experiences to prepare for life after graduation. Resources and mentors are available from various sources across campus like academic departments, career centers, residence life, and student organizations.
This document discusses the ecological impacts of wind farms, including impacts on birds and bats during construction and operation phases. During construction, habitat clearance and noise/visual disturbances can negatively impact some bird populations within 600 meters. Operational impacts include direct mortality of birds, especially migrating songbirds and raptors, and bats, with the highest bat mortality occurring near forested ridges. Mitigation measures aim to site wind farms away from important habitats and use techniques like curtailment, feathering, and radar to reduce avian collisions.
La familia se compone de las personas que viven bajo el mismo techo. Existen diferentes tipos de familia como familias pequeñas con mamá, papá e hijos o familias más grandes, también familias con mamás y sus hijos.
Este documento describe la estructura y elementos de un resumen y una reseña crítica. Un resumen transmite la información de un texto de manera abreviada, mientras que una reseña incluye también un comentario valorativo del texto. Ambos requieren una lectura atenta para identificar la información más importante. El documento luego explica los pasos para elaborar un resumen y la estructura común de un resumen y una reseña crítica, incluyendo la portada, referencia bibliográfica, presentación, resumen/comentario y evaluación, e identific
Este documento resume los diferentes tipos de conjuntos numéricos, incluyendo números naturales, enteros, racionales, irracionales, reales y complejos. Explica que los números naturales son un conjunto infinito que comienza con 1 y no tiene último elemento, mientras que los enteros incluyen también los números opuestos. Los números racionales surgen al medir longitudes y volúmenes y hay infinitos números racionales entre dos dados. Los números reales incluyen tanto los racionales como los irracionales, y los números complejos son puntos en un plano que sur
Este documento propone un nuevo modelo de investigación descentralizado para la Universidad San Martín de Porres. Actualmente, la universidad solo tiene 180 tesis en su biblioteca virtual y la investigación se concentra principalmente en la facultad de ingeniería. El modelo propuesto fomentaría la investigación en áreas sociales y tecnológicas para apoyar mejor a los estudiantes y la comunidad. Además, permitiría una mayor participación de los estudiantes en proyectos de investigación. Este nuevo enfoque podría ayudar a la universidad a cumplir mejor su misión
Google Glass es un dispositivo de visualización tipo Head-mounted display desarrollado por Google. La versión Explorer Edition fue lanzada en 2013 por $1500, mientras que la versión para consumidores salió en abril de 2015 en Estados Unidos. El propósito de Google Glass es mostrar información a usuarios de teléfonos inteligentes sin usar las manos y acceder a Internet mediante comandos de voz, de forma similar a Google Now en Android. El sistema operativo es Android y forma parte del laboratorio Google X de tecnologías futurísticas.
La maestra María Magdalena Meneses Rueda enseña contabilidad informática a estudiantes de séptimo grado en una escuela rural. Debido a la falta de recursos, los estudiantes han tenido dificultades para aprender contabilidad. La maestra busca facilitar el aprendizaje de contabilidad a través del uso de sistemas de información y recursos educativos digitales.
Este portafolio digital presenta un plan de estudios para las áreas de Español y Relaciones Sociales para estudiantes de séptimo grado. El plan incluye la presentación de la docente Nancy Chinchilla Mora, los estudiantes del Colegio Avelina Moreno de estratos socioeconómicos bajos y sus objetivos de aprendizaje. También describe el problema de la falta de enfoque en los estudios debido a la etapa de la adolescencia de los estudiantes y los recursos digitales, bibliográficos y las actividades de aprendizaje
Soraya Chavez Silva, una profesora de lengua castellana, está enseñando a estudiantes de grado 8 en una escuela rural en Colombia. Ella quiere desarrollar habilidades de redacción en sus estudiantes mediante actividades prácticas como sopas de letras, crucigramas y lecturas, para motivarlos y mejorar su rendimiento académico. Ella evaluará su progreso observando cómo resuelven ejercicios en grupo durante las clases de informática.
1. The document outlines various statutory instruments that protect environmental values at Sydney Olympic Park, including threatened species, migratory birds, and their habitats.
2. Key threats to waterbirds and migratory shorebirds include inadequate habitat, mangrove encroachment, and disturbance from public access. Management strategies involve habitat restoration and limiting access during migration periods.
3. Woodland birds at the park face threats such as habitat loss and modification, and aggressive interactions with other bird species. Conservation efforts include removing weeds, planting diverse habitat, and increasing habitat connectivity.
Pengertian Mutu Pelayanan
Menurut Din ISO 8402 (1986), mutu adalah totalitas dari wujud serta ciri dari suatu barang atau jasa, yang di dalamnya terkandung sekaligus pengertian rasa aman atau pemenuhan kebutuhan para pengguna Mutu merujuk pada tingkat kesempurnaan dalam memberikan kepuasan pada pengguna layanan
Menurut JCAHO (1993) Mutu adalah tingkat dimana pelayanan kesehatan pasien mendekati hasil yang diharapkan dan mengurangi faktor-faktor yang tidak diinginkan. Layanan kesehatan yang bermutu adalah suatu layanan kesehatan.
Manfaat
Adapun manfaat dari program jaminan mutu :
Dapat meningkatkan efektifitas pelayanan kesehatan
Dapat meningkatkan efisiensi pelayanan kesehatan
Dapat meningkatkan penerimaan masyarakat terhadap pelayanan kesehatan.
Dapat melindungi penyelenggara pelayanan kesehatan dan kemungkinan timbulnya gugatan hukum.
Pengertian Sertifikasi
tindak lanjut dari perizinan,yakni memberikan sertifikat (pengakuan) kepada institusi kesehatan dan atau tenaga pelaksanan yang benar-benar memenuhi persyaratan.
CONTOH
STR
SIPB
Dr. Stephen Ambrose has over 31 years of experience in ecological research and management, specializing in bird ecology. He has a Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Western Australia and has worked as a Principal Ornithologist for Ambrose Ecological Services Pty Ltd for 17 years, conducting bird population monitoring and impact assessments. He has also held roles at Birdlife Australia and taught at the University of New England and Australian National University. Dr. Ambrose has extensive experience designing environmental management plans and evaluating their effectiveness in protecting bird populations.
UCF COM GME Resident Orientation on Library Services and Resourcesklmckee
The document provides information about the Harriet F. Ginsburg Health Sciences Library at UCF College of Medicine. It discusses the library's mission to provide electronic medical information resources and support education and research. The library has an electronic collection of over 1,300 e-journals, 400 e-books and textbooks, and many online databases that are accessible on and off campus. The library also provides reference services, research consultations, and interlibrary loans to support students, faculty and staff.
This document discusses how to build an effective resume. It explains that a resume allows a prospective employer to learn about a person's educational background, work experience, and relevant skills. It should be used to obtain positions of responsibility, internships, projects, or jobs. The document provides tips for resume formatting, including using bullets, action words, and proofreading. It outlines seven steps for creating a great resume such as avoiding errors, keeping it short and focused on strengths.
Este documento define las redes de computadoras como conjuntos de equipos informáticos y software conectados entre sí para compartir información y recursos. Explica que existen diferentes tipos de redes como las redes de área local (LAN), redes de área amplia (WAN) y redes de área metropolitana (MAN). También describe algunas aplicaciones comunes de las redes como el modelo servidor-cliente y cómo permiten compartir información, hardware y software. Finalmente, menciona algunas ventajas como la colaboración en red y la reducción de cost
1. Reef shark populations in Palau's shark sanctuary showed large differences, with densities over 10 times higher in the Main Island Group compared to the remote Southwest Islands.
2. Shark densities were strongly negatively correlated with the density of derelict fishing gear on reefs, suggesting fishing impacts shark populations.
3. Sharks in the remote Southwest Islands were significantly smaller on average, further indicating fishing effects on these populations. Surveillance and enforcement are needed to effectively protect sharks within the sanctuary.
This document summarizes a case study examining the potential impacts of dredging the entrance to the Lower Myall River on migratory shorebirds. It finds that dredging could negatively impact shorebirds through increased disturbances from recreational boating and dredging activities. Over 32 migratory shorebird species and 10 Australian resident shorebird species use the area, including globally significant populations of Eastern Curlew and Bar-tailed Godwits. The document recommends referring the proposal to the Commonwealth Government and conducting species impact statements on three threatened shorebird species. It discusses addressing concerns about unnecessary environmental reviews through scientific evidence and consultation with experts.
MarSci Aug 2014 pp14-17 Ecol Assess Offshore Wind FarmsBob Carling
The document discusses ecological impact assessments for offshore wind farms. It focuses on two key issues relating to underwater noise from construction: potential disturbance of fish spawning habitats and disruption of fish migration. Accurate baseline data on fish spawning locations and timing is important for assessment. Modeling is used to estimate noise impacts on fish behavior during piling. Precaution is needed due to uncertainties. Seasonal restrictions or noise reduction technologies may be used as mitigation.
The document analyzes the loss of tidal wetlands in New York from 1880 to 2000 based on a study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, finding a 48% loss from the 1880s to 2000 and an additional 19% loss from 1970 to present despite protective legislation passed in the 1970s, indicating wetland decline continues to be a problem. It discusses how wetlands provide important ecosystem services like habitat for marine organisms and nutrient cycling. The main cause of ongoing wetland loss is increased amounts of open water on marsh surfaces due to excess nitrogen leading to the wetland's demise, though laws in the 1970s aimed to protect from draining and filling wet
Research Proposal - Are the Adélie penguin, Pygoscelis adeliae, populations w...ElizabethHowarth1
Rational - The focus on this study is to evaluate how the population size and health of Adélie penguin, Pygoscelis adeliae, colonies at Cape Royds, Cape Bird and Cape Crozier have changed over time, especially in relation to the Ross Sea region Marine Protected Area, MPA, established in 2017 and considering major environmental and biological factors that could have an effect on these populations. We will continue to collect new data annually to look at any affects the Ross Sea region MPA is having on these populations. Using data about population sizes of colonies and health of individuals from within the colonies, we will evaluate the overall health of the colonies and predict how we expect them to change in the near future. This is an important study as P. adeliae are an indicator species for their local ecosystem – the health of the penguin colonies reflects the health of the local ecosystem.
Aquatic and Semi Aquatic Birds, Threats and Conservation of Bird Fauna of Bal...iosrjce
IOSR Journal of Environmental Science, Toxicology and Food Technology (IOSR-JESTFT) multidisciplinary peer-reviewed Journal with reputable academics and experts as board member. IOSR-JESTFT is designed for the prompt publication of peer-reviewed articles in all areas of subject. The journal articles will be accessed freely online
1
Tourist
(Main)
246 May–June
2010
Self-administered
questionnaire
Demographic characteristics; motivations to visit Palau; satisfaction and expenditures on: diving, shark
diving, accommodation, other activities and living costs while in Palau; knowledge of the shark sanctuary and
influence on decision to visit
Dive operator 10 May–June
2010
Face-to-face
interview
Business profile; number of clients; shark-diving activities; revenues and costs; employment; perceptions of
the shark-diving industry and shark sanctuary
Dive guide 20 May–June
2010
Face-to-face
interview
Employment profile; number
Analysis Of Silver Creek Wetland ComplexHeidi Maestas
The document analyzes the Silver Creek Wetland Complex, a rare coastal wetland located along the Nottawasaga Bay Shoreline in Ontario, Canada. It discusses the wetland's classification and protection under environmental laws. The wetland acts as important habitat for fish and bird species and provides flood control and water purification functions. Monitoring and stewardship of the wetland is conducted by various conservation authorities.
This study examined the relationship between seagrass coverage and invertebrate abundance on the island of South Caicos. Researchers measured seagrass coverage using transects and quadrats at six sites and recorded observed invertebrate species. The data analysis found no significant correlations between seagrass density and invertebrate abundance. While previous studies found such correlations, the researchers believe methodological issues and environmental conditions affected their results. Further research with improved methods is needed to better understand these relationships and inform plans to remove seagrass beds.
This document outlines a study to monitor the health of marine ecosystems in Lokobe National Park in Madagascar. The study will conduct surveys of fish populations, coral health conditions, and oceanographic parameters to assess ecosystem health and determine if declines in coral health can be linked to environmental factors. Methods include rapid fish surveys, line transect surveys of coral cover and health, water quality testing, and GPS mapping. The goal is to establish long-term monitoring methods that can be conducted by students and researchers to track changes in the marine environment over time.
One Fish, Two Fish, Blue Crab, Pompano- An Analysis of Marine and Estuarine S...Cody Gramlin
This document analyzes marine and estuarine species sampled along South Carolina's Atlantic coast. Samples were collected from three locations at Hunting Island State Park using fyke and seine nets between August 8-14, 2016. A variety of fish and crab species were identified. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) was calculated for each net deployment to analyze sampling effectiveness. The six most commonly caught species were identified for each sample location.
LindseyHamilton_NocturnalSurfScoterDistributionPoster_2015Lindsey Hamilton
1) The study tracked surf scoters in the Salish Sea using satellite transmitters to determine their nocturnal habitat use and movements between diurnal and nocturnal areas.
2) It found that surf scoters traveled farther on average in the South Puget Sound region and moved offshore at night to deeper waters compared to their diurnal foraging areas nearshore.
3) Logistic regression modeling revealed that minimum distance to shore, water depth, tidal current, and vessel traffic density were significant predictors of surf scoter nocturnal habitat preference, with preferences for deeper, more offshore areas with less vessel traffic.
This document analyzes data from a citizen science marine survey program called Seasearch to describe the spatial distribution of pink sea fan colonies in southwest UK coastal waters from 2001-2012. It finds that pink sea fan colonies are concentrated in some areas but also exist outside of existing Marine Protected Areas, potentially putting them at risk from bottom-towed fishing activities. The analysis demonstrates how organized citizen science data can help inform broad scale patterns of biodiversity and assesses whether the locations of pink sea fans match up with areas that have legal protection from bottom-towed fishing gears.
Louisiana contains many marshes and wetlands that constitute about 40% of the state's landscape, providing important habitat for wildlife. However, Louisiana has experienced a significant amount of wetland loss over recent decades, with around 80% of national wetland loss occurring in the state. Specifically, Louisiana wetlands have declined by 30% just in the past 10 years, which is problematic as the lost wetlands are often converted to open water rather than being restored.
Eco Systems and their relation with tourismamitiittmgwl
The document discusses various ecosystems and their importance for tourism, including wetlands, coral reefs, and mangroves. It notes that wetlands provide important ecological functions and that their management requires a multidisciplinary perspective. Coral reefs are described as highly diverse ecosystems that are home to 25% of marine fish species but are severely threatened by pollution, climate change, and other human impacts. Mangroves are introduced as coastal forests adapted to tidal conditions that provide habitat for many species.
This study used acoustic telemetry to track the vertical movement patterns and site fidelity of grey reef sharks at aggregation sites in Palau over two years. The key findings were:
1) Sharks displayed strong inter-annual residency at monitored sites, with greater attendance in summer than winter months.
2) Mean depths increased from 35m in winter to 60m in spring, correlating with increases in water temperature at 60m. Sharks descended deeper and used a wider depth range around full moons.
3) There were crepuscular cycles in mean depth, with sharks moving into shallower waters at dawn and dusk daily.
4) Cyclical vertical movement patterns appeared to optimize energetic budgets
This study tested the use of photographic mark-recapture techniques to estimate the population of Nile crocodiles at Sunset Dam in Kruger National Park. Researchers photographed and identified individual crocodiles based on unique patterns on their tails over four days. Applying mark-recapture models, they found the population size was accurately estimated and that mornings yielded more visible crocodiles than afternoons. The non-invasive photographic method provides a better technique for monitoring crocodile populations than methods requiring handling or tagging.
This document discusses the diversity of mangrove species and the threats they face. It notes that mangrove forests have declined significantly worldwide due to human activities like converting land to fish and shrimp farms. In the Philippines alone, mangrove coverage decreased from 448,000 hectares in the 1920s to 110,000 hectares in 1990 and 130,000 hectares by 2000. This is due to activities such as using mangroves for charcoal, firewood, and building materials as well as expanding coastal development. The destruction of mangrove forests is alarming as they provide important economic and ecological benefits.
Wetlands-classification, Intertidal zone-study in flora and FaunaMegha Majoe
Wetlands are diverse ecosystems that provide many benefits but are under threat. They include marshes, mangroves, and other areas that are periodically flooded. Mangroves in particular stabilize coastlines, provide habitat for fish and crustaceans, and sequester large amounts of carbon. However, mangroves have been cleared for development and degraded by pollution, with losses occurring three to four times faster than inland forests. To help protect these important ecosystems, further destruction of remaining wetlands must be prevented.
- The document summarizes a study that used environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to assess the biodiversity of restored bivalve populations at two sites in New York City - Soundview Park and Freshkills Park.
- eDNA was extracted from water and sediment samples to identify eukaryotic organisms without directly observing them. This allows for a more efficient biodiversity analysis compared to traditional methods.
- The study aims to compare biodiversity between restored areas with bivalves and control sites without bivalves to evaluate the impact of restoration efforts. Preliminary results from Soundview Park found over 270 eukaryotic orders present based on eDNA sequencing.
Similar to V8 Supercar Race, Sydney Olympic Park and Waterbird Impacts. (20)
V8 Supercar Race, Sydney Olympic Park and Waterbird Impacts.
1.
2. February 2010
fiquatic andRiparian fccofogy
Newsletter Theme: Each edition of
Consulting Ecology will include a
collection of articles on a similar topic,
creating a newsletter theme.
The theme for August 2010 is
'HOLLOfWS. If you have knowledge and
expertise in this area we encourage you to
contribute to the next edition of
Consulting Ecology. The theme is
intended to cover a range of topics, ranging
from the effect of hollows on the health of a
tree, the process of hollow formation to
fauna use of hollows.
Tides of Change: Factors to
Consider in Assessing
Development or Activity
Impacts on Waterbirds and
Their Habitats
Dr Stephen Ambrose
Ambrose Ecological Services Pty Ltd
EGA President
Dr Stephen Ambrose has over 30 years experience
as a professional ornithologist and is the
Principal Ecologist of Ambrose Ecological
Services Pty Ltd. He was motivated to write this
article after encountering a significant number of
consultancy reports which inadequately assessed
the impacts of proposed developments and
activities on the status of waterbirds and their
habitats.
1. PREAMBLE
Ecological consultants are sometimes asked to
assess the ecological values of wetlands and
predict the impacts of proposed activities or
developments on them. One of many measures of
the conservation importance of a wetland is an
assessment of its value as habitat for waterbirds,
i.e. waterfowl (ducks and swans), gallinules
(crakes, rails and bitterns), herons, egrets & allies,
cormorants and pelicans, terns and gulls, and
migratory, nomadic and resident shorebirds.
Everyone knows that the use of wetlands by
waterbirds varies considerably throughout the
year and between years. For instance, most
migratory shorebirds are usually present in
Australia from late August/early September to
late March/early April, with only some first-year
(immature) birds over-wintering here. Moreover,
some wetlands may be important refuges for
waterbirds in drought or flood years, but not at
other times.
Ecological consultants seldom have the luxury of
being able to conduct seasonal and yearly surveys
of wetlands when assessing potential impacts of a
development or activity on the status of waterbird
populations. Therefore, we rely on the results of
other studies (research projects, wildlife
databases, reports of other consultants, first-hand
knowledge of the local community, etc.) and our
own knowledge of the habitat requirements of
each species to determine the value of the
wetlands as waterbird habitat. Sadly, this desk-
top information is often not comprehensive
enough for consultants to conduct a waterbird
impact assessment either confidently or
accurately.
14
3. If wetlands or nearby habitats are under the
influence of a tidal cycle, then the abundances and
types of waterbird species on the wetland will be
influenced by that cycle. For instance, low tides
may result in exposed mud- or sand-flats in the
wetland or nearby areas, and thus attract large
numbers of shorebirds that forage on benthic
invertebrates. If some mud- or sand-flats are still
exposed at high tide, then shorebirds may
congregate there in denser numbers to roost, but
will disperse to other areas if all suitable roosting
sites are inundated by the tidal waters. However,
high tides may suit other species, e.g. diving
ducks, cormorants and pelicans which prefer
deeper waters for foraging.
There may even be a 24hr (circadian) cycle of
abundance of waterbird populations on wetlands
that are not under a tidal influence. For instance, a
wetland may not be particularly resourceful
foraging habitat for some waterfowl species, but
provides valuable roosting habitat at night
because of the protection it provides from
potential predators and other disturbances. In my
experience, this is seldom considered by
ecological consultants when evaluating the value
of wetlands as waterbird habitat.
2. CASE STUDY: THE WATERBIRDREFUGE,
BICENTENNIAL PARK, HOMEBUSHBAY
2.1 Background
The wetlands in Sydney Olympic and
Bicentennial Parks that are part of the Homebush
Bay Wetlands (Ermington Bay/Mudflats,
Meadowbank Foreshore, Yarralla Bay, Majors
Bay, Haslems Creek, Mason Park and Lower
Duck River) are among some of the most
important coastal wetlands in NSW. The
saltmarsh communities are the second largest in
the Sydney area, after Towra Point Nature
Reserve in Botany Bay and are important as
waterbird habitat. They are particularly important
as an essential link to remaining wetlands in the
Sydney area and as part of the NSW coastal
corridor used by waterbird species. The
saltmarsh, intertidal wetlands and freshwater
swamps provide a unique combination of habitats
which are of special significance to wader species,
of which about two-thirds are migratory
shorebirds that are protected under international
migratory shorebird agreements and the
Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBCAct).
The wetlands within the Newington Nature
Reserve and Bicentennial Park, the Northern
Water Feature and the tiny wetland at Mason
Park (immediately south of Sydney Olympic
Park) are linked by a wetland corridor of tidal
mudflats (the Waterbird Refuge, Homebush Bay
and nearby areas of Parramatta River) and
mangrove forests (e.g. Badu Mangroves and
Haslams Creek) to form a unique wetland system
that is integral for the maintenance of shorebird
and waterbird populations in coastalNSW.
The Homebush Bay Wetlands are listed on the
NSW Register of the National Estate as Wetlands
of National Importance. There are several
ornithological reasons for this listing. The
remnant wetlands of the Upper Parramatta River
provide habitat for over 140 species of birds and
have been ranked sixth in importance for waders
in NSW. They are significant for migratory
shorebirds, providing habitat for at least 27
nationally-listed bird species under the EPBC Act.
This list includes bird species which are listed
under the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird
Agreement, 1974 (JAMBA), China-Australia
Migratory Bird Agreement,1986 (CAMBA) and the
Republic of Korea-Australia Migratory Bird
Agreement, 2007 (ROKAMBA). Two species which
occur there, the Little Tern (Sterna albifrons) and
Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) are listed as
threatened under the schedules of the TSC Act.
The remnant wetlands area also supports one of
the two Sydney colonies of the White-fronted
Chat (Ephthianura albifrons) and provides habitat
15
4. or one of the largest populations of Chestnut Teal
(Anas castanea) in NSW.
The V8 Telstra 500 Supercar Race Event was held
at Sydney Olympic Park from 4-6 December 2009
(inclusive). Although the race event was not
visible from the Waterbird Refuge (the closest
wetland of national importance to the race
circuit), it was nevertheless only 355 metres from
the nearest part of the circuit. Therefore, there was
a need to monitor use of the Waterbird Refuge by
waterbirds before, during and after the race event
to determine if there were significant impacts
from noise or other disturbances. It also provided
an opportunity to demonstrate the importance of
this wetland to waterbirds in relation to the
Parramatta River's tidal cycle and to
diurnal/nocturnal cycles.
2.2 Survey Methods
A comprehensive dataset of bird abundance at the
Waterbird Refuge and nearby wetlands has been
maintained by the Sydney Olympic Park
Authority for over 10years. These data were used
to establish the long-term conservation value of
the Waterbird Refuge as waterbird habitat.
In predicting potential impacts of the V8 race
event, bird surveys were conducted at the
Waterbird Refuge throughout the day and early
evening on 11-13 December 2008 and during two
relatively noisy events: "The Big Day Out
Concert" (23 January 2009) in the Urban Precinct
of Sydney Olympic Park and the Australia Day
Picnic Celebrations in Bicentennial Park (26
January 2009). These events did not significantly
impact on the use of the Waterbird Refuge by
waterbirds. Noise modelling conducted by
Reggies AcousticalConsultants Pty Ltd predicted
that the noise levels at the Waterbird Refuge
produced by V8 race event would not be higher
than those produced by the Big Day Out Concert,
Australia Day Picnic Celebrations, background
traffic on nearby busy roads, or the frequent
aircraft that flew low over or near the Waterbird
Refuge. Therefore, it was concluded that the V8
race event would not impact on the use of the
Waterbird Refuge by waterbirds. However, a bird
monitoring program was recommended at and
around the time of the event to test the accuracy
of this prediction.
In testing the impact prediction, the abundances
and behaviours of waterbird populations were
surveyed at the Waterbird Refuge on 3 December
2009 (the day before the start of the race event), 4-
6 December 2009 (during the three-day race
event) and on 7 December 2009 (the day after the
race event) to determine if the race event caused
significant disturbances to waterbird and
populations. Ideally, there should have been three
survey days in both the pre- and post-race periods
(equalling the survey period during the race
event), which would have provided a measure of
daily variation in species richness and abundance
for those times, but the race organisers decided to
limit pre- and post-race surveys to single days to
maximise cost-effectiveness of the assessment of
impacts.
Surveys of between 11 and 28 minutes
(depending on the numbers of waterbirds on the
wetland) were conducted at hourly intervals
between:
Q 0912-2010 hrs on 3 December 2009;
a 0500-0627 hrs and 1107-2122 hrs on 4 December
2009;
Q 0502-0523 hrs, 1007-2013 hrs and 2200-2221 hrs
on 5 December 2009;
a 0500-0518 hrs, 0958-2016 hrs and 2300-2321 hrs
on 6 December 2009; and
Q 0500-0518 hrs, 1000-2018 hrs on 7 December 2009
and 0000-0019 hrs on 8 December 2009.
Water levels at Homebush Bay are affected by the
tidal cycle in Sydney Harbour. Although the
Waterbird Refuge is land-locked, flood gates at
the entrance of a man-made channel directs water
from the Parramatta River into the wetland each
morning in summer to prevent eutrophication.
The numbers of shorebirds at the Waterbird
16
5. Refuge are highest after dark, when birds come
into roost, and when the Parramatta River
experiences its high tide. The tidal cycle at Sydney
Harbour during the survey period is shown in
Table 1. The numbers of Chestnut and Grey Teals
on the Waterbird Refuge are also highest at night
when these species come in to roost.
The bird surveys that were conducted each day at
the Waterbird Refuge included high tide times
after dark, when daily maximum numbers of
waterbirds and shorebirds occurred there, as well
as other times of the day and night that were
associated with the changing tide cycle.
All surveys of waterbirds were conducted from
the public bird hide at the Waterbird Refuge to
minimise disturbances to the birds. All
observations were made with a Kowa TSN-821M
scope with a 20-60X zoom lens and 8x30 mm
Leica binoculars. Moonlight during the night-time
surveys was bright enough to identify most bird
species from their silhouettes.
The abundance and general distribution of each
species on the wetland were recorded during each
count. Obvious signs of disturbance to the
behaviour of birds (e.g. alarm displays,
displacement of birds from their usual foraging
and roosting habitats, flight responses) were also
recorded during and (when possible) between
each count.
2.3 Richness and Abundance of Birds
The richness and abundance of bird species at the
Waterbird Refuge during each count before,
during and after the race event are shown in
Tables 2, 3 to 5 and 6 (respectively).
Sixteen waterbird species were recorded on race
event days, compared with 14 and 15 species in
the pre- and post-race survey periods. Therefore,
the race event did not reduce the number of
waterbird species occurring at the Waterbird
Refuge. The most abundant species recorded
during the surveys were Chestnut Teals, Grey
Teals, Black-winged Stilts, Bar-tailed Godwits and
Sharp-tailed Sandpipers.
The pattern of abundance of waterbirds on the
wetland during the race event was similar to the
day beforehand, with numbers lowest in the
middle of the day and highest after dark when
birds came in to roost (Figure 1).A similar pattern
was also observed on the day after the event (7
December), except early in the afternoon when
there were significant increases in numbers of
Chestnut and Grey Teals (Figure 2) and Black-
winged Stilts (Figure 3). The mid-day increases
on the 7 December 2009 resulted from teals and
stilts being flushed accidentally from nearby
Triangle Pond by two bird-watchers and them
settling subsequently at the Waterbird Refuge.
The total numbers of Chestnut and Grey Teals
recorded roosting at the Waterbird Refuge at
night on 3 December (the night before the race
event) (244 individuals) was substantially lower
than the abundances on other nights: 366
individuals (on 4 December) to 392 individuals (5
December). Therefore, it is possible that some
individuals of these species used the Waterbird
Refuge in preference to other wetlands in Sydney
Olympic Park on race days.
Bar-tailed Godwits arrived at the Waterbird
Refuge to roost each night after dark, about one
hour before high tide (Figure 4). The numbers of
roosting Bar-tailed Godwits recorded at the
Waterbird Refuge ranged from 200 individuals on
3 December to 226 individuals on 5 December.
Therefore, the race event did not significantly
impact on the use of the Waterbird Refuge by Bar-
tailed Godwits as a nocturnal roost site.
Sharp-tailed Sandpipers and Curlew Sandpipers
also arrived at the Waterbird Refuge to roost each
night after dark, about one hour before high tide.
These species often arrived together and within
minutes of the arrival times of the Bar-tailed
17
6. Godwits. There was no significant variation in the
maximum numbers of Sharp-tailed/Curlew
Sandpipers recorded during the survey period(40
on 7 December to 56 individuals on 6December)
(Figure 5). Therefore, the race event did not
significantly impact on the use of the Waterbird
Refuge by Sharp-tailed/Curlew Sandpipers as a
nocturnal roost site.
Table 1 TIDAL LEVELS FOR SYDNEY HARBOUR (FORT DENISON) FROM 2-7 DECEMBER 2009
(Source: Australian Bureau of Meteorology)
Blue Font (2ndand 4th row):High tide
Red Font (1st and 3rd row): Low tide
Wednesday
2 December
Time
0107
0740
1422
2017
Height
(m)
0.40
1.88
0.22
1.35
Thursday
3 December
Time
0154
0828
1511
2110
Height
(m)
0.39
1.94
0.17
1.35
Friday,
4 December
Time
0243
0917
1601
2202
Height
(m)
0.39
1.97
0.15
1.35
Saturday
5 December
Time
0336
1008
1655
2258
Height
(m)
0.41
1.95
0.17
1.34
Sunday
6 December
Time
0431
1100
1748
2354
Height
(m)
0.44
1.88
0.20
1.33
Monday
7 December
Time
0531
1155
1843
Height
(m)
0.48
1.78
0.26
Figure 1 TOTAL NUMBERS OF BIRDS COUNTED AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE ON EACH
SURVEY DAY
•3-Dec
•4-Dec
•5-Dec
•6-Dec
7-Dec
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 0 1 1 1 2
Hours Since the Start of Daily Counts
18
7. Figure 2 TOTAL NUMBERS OF TEAL COUNTED AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE ON EACH
SURVEY DAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314151617181920
Hours Since the Start of Daily Counts
Figure 3 TOTAL NUMBERS OF BLACK-WINGED STILTS RECORDED AT THE WATERBIRD
REFUGE ON EACH SURVEY DAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 0 1 1 1 2
Hours Since the Start of Daily Counts
-3-Dec
4-Dec
-5-Dec
•6-Dec
7-Dec
19
8. Figure 4 TOTAL NUMBERS OF BAR-TAILED GODWITS RECORDED AT THE WATERBIRD
REFUGE ON EACH SURVEY DAY
250
-3-Dec
4-Dec
•5-Dec
•6-Dec
7-Dec
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314151617181920
Hours Since The Start of Daily Counts
Figure 5 MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SHARP-TAILED AND CURLEW SANDPIPERS ROOSTING ON
THE WATERBIRD REFUGE AT NIGHT
7-Dec
2.4 BehaviouralDisturbances
Noise levels from the racing cars were barely
audible from the bird hide at the Waterbird
Refuge. Whenever there were bursts of sound
from the race event, the noise levels were no
higher than the usual background traffic noise
originating from Hill Road, Bennelong Parkway
and Homebush Bay Drive. The birds that use the
Waterbird Refuge for foraging, roosting and
shelter are habituated to these usual background
noise levels. Therefore, there were no obvious
disturbances to bird behavior from the sound of
the race event.
20
9. A police helicopter surveyed crowd behavior at
the race event by circling over a large area to the
south-west and west of the Waterbird Refuge.
While circling over this area, the helicopter would
arc over the western bank of the Waterbird
Refuge or over the wetland's south-western
corner. Main periods when this type of police
surveillance was observed were:
a 1510-1525 hrs on 4 December;
a 1435-1605 hrs and 1618-1655 hrs on 5
December; and
a 1030-1120 hrs, 1250-1305 hrs; 1405-1522 hrs
and 1537-1700 hrs.
Repeated police helicopter flights near or over the
western part of the Waterbird Refuge was a
significant disturbance to birds using the wetland.
Nearly all the Chestnut and Grey Teals left the
water and sought refuge on the eastern bank of
the wetland. Black-winged Stilts and Bar-tailed
Godwits huddled together in tight groups with
conspecifics in shallow water near the eastern
bank, or crouched low among tussock grasses.
Masked Lapwings also concealed themselves
among grass tussocks. Australian Pelicans
huddled in tight groups in deep water near the
centre of the wetland. Although the usual
behaviours of each bird species were disturbed
for the duration of the police helicopter flights, the
birds dispersed over wider areas of the wetland
and resumed their foraging or day-time roosting
behaviours within 10 minutes of the helicopter's
departure from the general area.
Surveys of birds inhabiting much smaller
wetlands that were nearer to the race circuit
(ponds at the Northern Water Feature and The
Brickpit Area), conducted by Sydney Olympic
Park ecologists, revealed that the race event did
not significantly impact on the abundance or
types of birds using these areas (J.Harrington &J.
O'Meara, Sydney Olympic Park Ecologists, pers.
comm).
2.5 Conclusion
This case study demonstrates that the Telstra 500
Supercar Race Event at Sydney Olympic Park did
not significantly impact on the abundance or
types of waterbirds and migratory shorebirds that
used the Waterbird Refuge immediately prior,
during and after the event. This is likely to be due
to the distance the wetland was from the race
track and the noise dampening effect of the race
track infrastructure (e.g. grandstands), stands of
mangroves and the direction of the prevailing
winds.
The police surveillance helicopter significantly
disturbed the behavior of birds on the wetland,
but not their abundance, during repeated flights
over or near the wetland. However, birds
resumed their normal behaviours within a few
minutes of the helicopter's departure from the
local area. Therefore, a recommendation was
made to the race event organisers that helicopter
flights, especially repeated flights, over or
adjacent to the Waterbird Refuge be banned at
future race events, if possible.
3. RECOMMENDED APPROACHES TO
WATERBIRD SURVEYS AND IMPACT
ASSESSMENTS
The following recommended procedure will be
obvious to most ecological consultants, but it is
surprising the number of impact assessment
reports whose approaches are not so
comprehensive:
a Identify clearly the nature of the development
or activity proposal and how it is likely to
affect directly and indirectly the wetland and
its avian inhabitants (e.g. noise, light and
chemical pollution, soil erosion, siltation,
increased human activity, reclamation,
flooding or deepening of parts of the wetland,
clearance or degradation of microhabitats,
21
10. introduction or increased abundance of pests,
feral predators or competitors).
a Determine the geographical and ecological
context of the wetland that is being
investigated. Is it an isolated wetland or part
of a larger wetland ecosystem? Are the
environmental values of the wetland or larger
wetland ecosystem locally-, regionally-, state-,
nationally- and/or globally-significant? If so,
what are these values? How is the wetland
currently influenced by surrounding land-
uses and activities, and how will the proposal
contribute to these influences?
a Conduct a literature and database search, and
consult with the local community, for
information about what waterbird species
have been recorded on wetlands within the
locality or region. Local sources ofinformation
can often be obtained from councils, local,
state- or nationally-based bird groups or
natural history societies, local individuals, and
university researchers often have bird data
relevant to the wetland ecosystem under
investigation. These local sources are
sometimes gold-mines of information, e.g.
long-term data-sets of temporal and
geographical patterns of abundance of
waterbird species. In comparison, equally
useful datasets from government wildlife
databases often just provide species lists.
a During field surveys, identify and evaluate
the condition of avian microhabitats within
and around the wetland. How will those
microhabitats change if the proposal is
approved?
a Conduct your own surveys of waterbirds on
the wetland. What parts of the wetland are
used by each species? How does the
abundance of each species on the wetland
change throughout the 24-hr cycle and what
are the environmental factors that influence
the circadian distribution and abundance of
waterbirds in the wetland ecosystem?
Although the case study described in this
article involved waterbird counts every hour,
it is usually possible to conduct counts less
frequently across a 24-hour period to establish
the circadian pattern of wetland use.
a If possible, conduct your waterbird counts at
an appropriate time of the year. For instance,
if the proposal is an activity that is limited to a
certain time of the year (e.g. a racing car
event), then it makes sense to conduct bird
surveys at the time of the year when that
activity is likely to take place. However, if the
proposal is likely to have longer-term or
permanent impacts on the wetland and/or the
surrounding landscape, then ideally you
should be aiming to conduct seasonal surveys,
or at least surveys when waterbird species are
likely to be present (e.g. austral
spring/summer for migratory shorebirds; mid-
late summer if your wetland is a permanent
water body that waterbirds concentrate on
when nearby ephemeral wetlands dry up;
peak flood periods if your wetland system is
influenced by flood cycles).
As we all know, it is not always possible to
conduct these surveys in the right season or year,
but the importance of doing this should be
impressed upon your clients. The limitations of
your surveys should also be identified in your
assessment report. Reliance on information
gathered during your literature and database
search, and consultation with the local
community, becomes vital in the absence of
personal surveys during peak periods of
waterbird activity.
Also record the proportion of time that selected
bird species, particularly listed threatened and
migratory bird species, are engaged in specific
behaviours (time-budgeting), e.g. roosting,
foraging, loafing, responding to disturbances.
22
11. Time-budgets may be altered significantly by the
proposed development or activity without
altering the abundance of a species on the
wetland which, in turn, may affect the
physiological condition of individual birds.
a Identify or refine the list of potential impacts
of the proposed development or activity on
the status of waterbird species and their
habitats. Develop an ecological management
plan to mitigate or avoid these impacts.
It is essential that this process is conducted by a
suitably qualified and experienced ecologist. Too
often, I have come across reports that have been
compiled by consultants who have an inadequate
knowledge of the habitat requirements and
ecology of selected bird species. Consequently,
impact predictions and subsequent
mitigation/avoidance strategies are often
inadequate.
a Test the accuracy of impact predictions by
monitoring and evaluating the effectivenessof
ecological management plans that are
implemented as part of the approved
development or activity.
The type of data you might consider collecting for
comparison with baseline data collected prior to
the development or activity includes:
(a) The availability and condition of
microhabitats at the time of the development
or activity.
(b) The distribution and abundance of each bird
species within the wetland system.
(c) Time-budgets of each waterbird species. For
instance, the abundance of migratory
shorebirds on a wetland may not have been
changed by the development or activity, but
the time they spend foraging or roosting may
be significantly reduced as a result of
disturbances. Migratory shorebirds undergo
extensive feather moults during their stay in
Australia, which is an energy-intensive
process. Individual birds may not complete
their moult cycles and/or build up their body
fat reserves on time for the return migration
to breeding grounds in the northern
hemisphere if they are unable to spend
sufficient time feeding or roosting. If
significant disturbances to behaviours are
occurring as a result of the development or
activity, what are the sources of these
disturbances, and can they be reduced or
avoided?
(d) The distribution and abundance of
introduced pests, predators and/or
competitors that may occur in or around the
wetland system as a result of the
development or activity. What impacts are
these species having on the status of native
waterbird species and their habitats?
(e) Do any waterbirds breed in the wetland
system? If so, are there any signs that the
development or activity has impacted on
breeding success, as a result of changes in the
availability and quality of breeding habitats,
increased disturbances and/or changes in the
abundance of pests, predators or
competitors?
a Do not be afraid to admit that some of your
impact predictions were wrong! If the
development is a permanent or long-term
fixture, or if an activity is to be repeated, then
be equally bold in modifying your ecological
management plan to mitigate impacts that you
may not had predicted earlier.
23
12. Table 2 WATERBIRDAND SHOREBIRD COUNTS AT THE WATERBIRDREFUGE, 3 DECEMBER 2009
(THE DAY PRIOR TO THE V8 TELSTRA 500 EVENT)
* Bird count conducted when it was too dark to differentiate between Chestnut Teals and Grey Teals
** Between 180 and 200 Bar-tailed Godwits and 78 Sharp-tailed/Curlew Sandpipers were counted on the wetland at
2100 hrs. It was too dark to estimate accurately the abundance of other bird species on the wetland.
Water Level in Wetland: Medium-Full (0912 hrs); Full (1405 hrs); Low-medium (1800 hrs); Low (2000 hrs)
Species
Australian Pelican
Little Pied
Cormorant
Chestnut Teal
Grey Teal
Chestnut/Grey
Teal *
White-Faced
Heron
Bar-tailed Godwit
**
Sharp-tailed
Sandpiper
Curlew Sandpiper
Ruff
Masked Lapwing
Black-winged
Stilt
Red-necked
Avocet
Silver Gull
Australian
Magpie-lark
TOTAL
No. Individuals & Survey Times (24-hr clock)
0912-
0936
7
273
79
12
27
2
86
11
12
507
1012-
1028
10
1
60
21
27
1
80
3
8
211
1107-
1122
8
1
17
18
29
1
54
10
8
146
1217-
1230
5
1
10
10
29
1
84
12
8
150
1305-
1322
3
10
17
1
9
55
12
3
110
1405-
1415
2
24
24
1
21
1
74
1505-
1515
2
57
33
1
2
11
1
107
1605-
1615
1
1
70
21
2
5
2
1
103
1705-
1724
124
61
17
2
204
1800-
1815
202
112
1
69
11
395
1900-
1917
3
325
5
4
95
14
3
1
450
1952-
2010
2
244
10
52
7
7
87
8
19
428
24
13. Table 3 WATERBIRD AND SHOREBIRD COUNTS AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE, 4 DECEMBER 2009
(DAY 1 OF THE V8 TELSTRA 500 EVENT)
* Bird count conducted when it was too dark to differentiate between Chestnut and Grey Teals and between Sharp-
tailed and Curlew Sandpipers
** Teals and migratory shorebirds only were counted during these survey periods
Water Level in Wetland: Low over entire survey period.
Species
Australian
Pelican
Little Pied
Cormorant
Chestnut Teal
Grev Teal
Chestnut/Grey
Teal*
Royal
Spoonbill
White-faced
Heron
Australian
White Ibis
Bar-tailed
Godwit
Sharp-tailed
Sandpiper
Curlew
Sandpiper
Sharp-
tailed/Curlew
Sandpipers *
Masked
Lapwing
Black-winged
Stilt
Red-necked
Avocet
Silver Gull
Australian
Magpie-lark
TOTAL
No. Individuals & Survey Times (24-hr clock)
0500-
0525
**
352
72
44
0605-
0627
**
285
63
39
1102-
1125
19
77
52
1
28
2
4
89
6
17
295
1200-
1217
22
97
37
24
4
79
7
15
285
1300-
1317
10
118
11
1
41
2
100
6
7
296
1405-
1420
10
107
33
2
32
8
17
1
210
1500-
1510
9
73
14
3
31
1
3
134
1600-
1610
7
1
140
42
2
36
8
136
1700-
1713
8
192
84
2
32
6
324
1802-
1817
9
269
67
2
60
8
415
1900-
1917
12
312
1
38
7
2
90
7
4
473
1954-
2011
18
358
1
53
7
2
87
8
6
542
2100-
2122
**
366
210
49
25
14. Table 4 WATERBIRD AND SHOREBIRD COUNTS AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE, 5 DECEMBER 2009
(DAY 2 OF THE V8 TELSTRA 500 EVENT)
* Bird count conducted when it was too dark to differentiate between Chestnut and Grey Teals and between Sharp-
tailed and Curlew Sandpipers
** Teals and migratory shorebirds only were counted during these survey periods
Water Level in Wetland: Low (0502 hrs); low-medium (1400 hrs onwards).
Species
Australasian
Grebe
Australian
Pelican
Little Pied
Cormorant
Chestnut Teal
Grev Teal
Chestnut/Grey
Teal *
Australian
White Ibis
Bar-tailed
Godwit
Sharp-
tailed/Curlew
Sandpipers *
Masked
Lapwing
Black-winged
Stilt
Red-necked
Avocet
Silver Gull
Australian
Magpie-lark
TOTAL
No. Individuals &Survey Times (24-hr clock)
0502-
0523
**
348
56
12
1007-
1023
1
9
178
41
35
8
95
6
4
377
1100-
1117
1
12
111
54
2
37
6
117
7
2
349
1200-
1222
10
65
11
33
2
101
8
5
255
1300-
1310
8
16
8
36
4
103
8
19
202
1400-
1412
10
50
8
30
4
85
6
5
198
1500-
1512
5
52
9
1
64
8
1
142
1600-
1612
1
1
1
89
47
2
39
7
187
1700-
1715
1
1
144
63
2
26
2
1
240
1800-
1812
264
72
2
35
9
382
1900-
1915
1
350
2
47
8
1
414
1952-
2013
3
381
8
4
79
8
2
485
2200-
2221
**
392
226
54
26
15. Table 5 WATERBIRD AND SHOREBIRD COUNTS AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE, 6 DECEMBER 2009
(DAY 3 OF THE V8 TELSTRA 500 EVENT)
* Bird count conducted when it was too dark to differentiate between Chestnut and Grey Teals and between Sharp-
tailed and Curlew Sandpipers.
** Teals and migratory shorebirds only were counted during these survey periods.
Water Level in Wetland: Low (0502 hrs); low-medium (1200 hrs); low (1800 hrs)
Species
Australasian
Grebe
Australian
Pelican
Little Pied
Cormorant
Chestnut Teal
Grev Teal
Chestnut/Grey
Teal*
Great Egret
White-faced
Heron
Australian
White Ibis
Bar-tailed
Godwit
Sharp-
tailed/Curlew
Sandpipers *
Masked
Lapwing
Black-winged
Stilt
Red-necked
Avocet
Silver Gull
TOTAL
No. Individuals &Survey Times (24-hr clock)
0500-
0518
**
299
45
4
0958-
1015
6
155
23
2
22
2
85
3
27
325
1100-
1117
5
41
118
1
38
3
116
2
12
336
1200-
1217
6
83
37
1
36
4
99
3
13
284
1300-
1313
8
66
11
1
36
4
98
3
24
251
1400-
1415
9
50
5
2
34
3
115
2
14
234
1500-
1513
3
52
16
7
4
67
5
26
180
1600-
1612
81
29
5
43
3
15
176
1700-
1720
1
106
52
5
43
2
3
212
1800-
1816
140
80
1
2
47
1
1
272
1900-
1913
353
3
71
3
430
2000-
2016
380
4
83
3
470
2300-
2321
**
382
215
56
27
16. Table 6 WATERBIRD AND SHOREBIRD COUNTS AT THE WATERBIRD REFUGE, 7 DECEMBER 2009
(THE DAY AFTER THE V8 TELSTRA 500 EVENT)
* Bird count conducted when it was too dark to differentiate between Chestnut and Grey Teals and between Sharp-
tailed and Curlew Sandpipers.
** Teals and migratory shorebirds only were counted during these survey periods.
Water Level in Wetland: Low (0502 hrs); low-medium (1200 hrs); low (1800 hrs)
Species
Australasian
Grebe
Australian
Pelican
Little Pied
Cormorant
Chestnut Teal
Grev Teal
Chestnut/ Grey
Teal*
Great Egret
White-faced
Heron
Australian
White Ibis
Bar-tailed
Godwit
Sharp-tailed
Sandpiper
Sharp-
tailed/ Curlew
Sandpipers *
Masked
Lapwing
Black-winged
Stilt
Red-necked
Avocet
Silver Gull
TOTAL
No. Individuals &Survey Times (24-hr clock)
0500-
0518
**
276
14
1000-
1017
8
1
122
52
18
2
82
2
15
302
1103-
1115
4
62
17
19
6
98
3
39
249
1200-
1217
11
66
8
3
33
4
84
3
25
237
1300-
1312
3
56
7
1
34
3
82
2
41
228
1400-
1413
2
216
23
1
42
1
4
89
3
31
412
1500-
1513
1
188
19
30
1
3
87
3
20
342
1600-
1614
167
28
27
4
93
1
10
344
1700-
1713
4
153
45
1
4
84
3
11
305
1800-
1812
5
234
76
7
64
3
3
392
1900-
1910
4
378
5
65
2
5
459
2001-
2018
4
397
62
2
4
469
2400-
0019
**
384
C. 180
c. 40
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
/ thank V8 Supercars Ply Ltd for providing me with permission to reproduce the results of the Waterbird Refuge Waterbird Study
in this article. Kerry Dracovich, Judy Harrington and Jenny O'Meara (Sydney Olympic Park Authority) were extremely helpful
in providing bird data for Sydney Olympic and Bicentennial Parks during the impact assessment in the lead-up to, and during, the
V8 Telstra 500 Supercar Race Event. They also provided delightful company at regular intervals in the bird hide during the race
event weekend. Thanks also go to Jon Irvine who assisted with waterbird counts at night on 3 December 2009 and for his
invaluable insight into the birds of Sydney Olympic Park, and to the many bird-watchers who visited the bird hide throughout the
race event weekend, particularly those who were searchingfor the elusive juvenile Wliite-Breasted Sea-Eagle and the two Ruffs.
28