A Plan for Monitoring Shorebirds during the Non-breeding ...



A Plan for Monitoring Shorebirds During the Non-breeding Season in Bird Monitoring Regions Maine – BCR 30 & BCR 14

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Prepared by: Sandy Chan

Version *.*

2003

Updated 2008

Table of Contents

Introduction 3

Methods 5

BCR 30 Results - Shorebirds 7

Site Descriptions 8

Scarborough Marsh 8

Site 1: Western Beach 9

Site 2: Eastern Road 9

Site 3: Pine Point 9

Site 4: Dunstan Landing 10

Site 5: Jones Creek 10

Site 7: Ocean View Lane 10

Biddeford Pool 11

Sampson Cove, Cape Porpoise 13

Ox Cart Lane, Lower Wells 15

Bluff and Stratton Islands 17

BCR 14 Results – Shorebirds 19

Site Descriptions 20

Presumpscot River and Mackworth Flats 20

Seawall Beach and Popham Beach State Park 22

Reid State Park 26

Weskeag Marsh 28

Over Point and Cove 30

Back Bay 32

Mill River 33

Flat Bay 34

Lower Wass Cove, Upper Wass Cove, and Pleasant River 35

Crowley Island 38

Sprague Neck, Cutler 40

Lubec: Gravel Bar, Flats, Center, and Medical Center 41

Lubec Gravel Bar: 42

Lubec Flats: 42

Lubec Center: 43

Lubec Medical Center: 44

Carrying Place Cove, Eastport 45

Acknowledgements 47

Introduction

The bird conservation initiatives - waterbirds, waterfowl, shorebirds and landbirds - are cooperating to design a comprehensive “integrated bird monitoring” (IBM) program for Canada and the United States. The conceptual framework for IBM (Fig. 1) includes strong emphasis on detecting species at risk and helping to protect them. These broad goals are achieved by estimating population trends and defining requirements for viable populations. These objectives in turn are accomplished by population modeling based on population levels, demographic rates and habitat information. Population trends are estimated by surveying breeding populations whenever possible, and by surveying the species for which this is not feasible at other times of year. Surveys of all species are made throughout the year to help identify and monitor use of suitable habitat.

Figure 1. Conceptual framework for integrated bird monitoring.

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Most surveys in upland habitats are designed at a large spatial scale (e.g., southern Canada and the United States) and do not require detailed information at the local level. Surveys of wetland habitats, in contrast, must be carefully designed to insure that the habitat is well covered, and different methods may be needed in different environments. A series of “regional assessments” is thus being prepared to help design the wetland surveys. Regions were formed by intersecting a Bird Conservation Region (BCR) map with a Province and State map, deleting small polygons and smoothing the borders (Fig. 2). The resulting “Bird Monitoring Regions” can be used to scale up results to either BCRs or Provinces and States.

Figure 2. Shorebird Planning and Bird Conservation Regions in Canada and the United States.

Adapted from: USFWS-U.S. Shorebird Plan and CWS-Canadian Shorebird Conservation Plan

The regional assessments summarize current information about wetland bird distribution, abundance, habitat relationships and timing of use within the Region and identify information needed to design reliable monitoring programs. These “needed pilot studies” are then prioritized by people concerned with monitoring birds in the region and a plan is developed to carry out the work. Carrying out the pilot studies is expected to take 1-3 years. Long-term surveys will then be implemented. Additional details are provided in “Managers Monitoring Manual” available at . More information on regional progress can be found at the U.S. Shorebird Plan’s Regional Conservation Plan website ().

Methods

Focal wetland species of shorebirds were first identified. The initial list included all wetland species of shorebirds that are common or abundant at any time of year within the Region, according to Brian Harrington and based largely upon data from the International Shorebird Surveys (ISS). Sites in which any of the focal species are common or abundant at any time of year were then identified using a list prepared for this project and supplemented by information provided by birding guides, ornithologists and birders knowledgeable of the Region. Most sites were single areas, such as a National Wildlife Refuge, but dispersed sites, such as “lakes >10 ha”, could also be identified.

Figure 3. PRISM sites in BCR 13, 14, 30, 27, and 31.

The International Shorebird Survey (ISS) provided species numbers for some of the identified sites. The ISS is a volunteer based survey initiated in 1974 by Brian Harrington. Volunteers select their survey sites and are given guidelines on census frequency and data collection for spring and fall migration. The ISS guidelines ask volunteers to survey once every 10 days from April 1st to June 10th for spring migration, and once every 10 days from July 11th to October 31st for fall migration. ISS records provided the maximum counts recorded for species where the identified site is also an ISS site.

Survey methods for sites include appropriate tide levels for surveys, if that information is available. Tide levels for surveys are based on the advice of biologists and birders with knowledge about the sites. Due to the different geography of the sites, different tide levels

are recommended to concentrate the birds for a survey. While high tide at one site may bring in birds that are spread out over an expansive area at low tide, high tide at another site may completely cover the habitat or food resources and scatter the birds elsewhere. Therefore, different tide levels may be recommended for different sites.

Additional site information may also include information about visibility. Excellent/good visibility simply means that the birds can be seen without obstruction clearly enough to identify to species, either by physically getting close enough or with a good scope or binoculars.

Maps showing land ownership, roads and wetlands were prepared for the region. Maps of each site were also prepared and information useful in designing surveys for the focal species was presented. The survey objective was assumed to be estimating the average number of birds of each focal species present within the site during a specified interval. Up to three types of habitat were described for each focal species: Type 1 habitat, outlined in purple on the maps, included regularly-used areas that should be sampled using a well-defined sampling plan. Type 2 habitat, which was outlined in red, included areas used sparingly by the focal species. Type 2 habitat is not surveyed as often or with rigorously defined methods, but is surveyed less formally every few years to document continued low use by the focal species. Type 3 habitat receives virtually no use by the focal species during the study period and is not surveyed as part of the monitoring program. Requests, however, are circulated for any records of the focal species occurring in substantial numbers in these areas.

A description of each site was prepared with the following headings:

Boundaries and ownership

Focal species using the site and timing of use

Location of type 1 and 2 habitat within the site

Access to the type 1 and 2 habitat and visibility of the birds

Past and current surveys

Potential survey methods

Description

Selection bias

Measurement error and bias

Needed pilot studies

We assume for any survey that the study area and study period (within years) have been defined. The goal of the survey was assumed to be estimating the trend, across several years, in the average number of birds present during the study period. Bias means a long-term trend in the ratio (number recorded)/(average number present). Selection bias ensues when some portion of Type 1 habitat has zero chance of being surveyed, usually due to access problems, and there is a long-term trend in the proportion of birds using the non-sampled portion. Exclusion of some Type 1 habitat does not necessarily cause selection bias because trends in the sampled areas might be the same as trends in the non-sampled areas. Anytime some portion of Type 1 habitat could not be included in the sampled areas, the potential for selection bias and ways to reduce it were discussed. Measurement error means not detecting all birds present in the surveyed area at the time of the survey. Measurement bias is a long term trend in the proportion of birds present at the time of the survey that are detected on the survey. Measurement error does not necessarily cause measurement bias because the proportion of birds detected might not change through time. Anytime measurement error was probable, its magnitude and probable stability through time were discussed along with ways to reduce the proportion of birds missed on the surveys.

BCR 30 Results - Shorebirds

Table 1. Focal shorebird species for BCR 30

|CODE |SPECIES |

|BBPL |Black-bellied Plover |

|SEPL |Semipalmated Plover |

|AMOY |American Oystercatcher |

|GRYE |Greater Yellowlegs |

|LEYE |Lesser Yellowlegs |

|SOSA |Solitary Sandpiper |

|SPSA |Spotted Sandpiper |

|WHIM |Whimbrel |

|RUTU |Ruddy Turnstone |

|REKN |Red Knot |

|SAND |Sanderling |

|SESA |Semipalmated Sandpiper |

|LESA |Least Sandpiper |

|WRSA |White-rump Sandpiper |

|DUNL |Dunlin |

|SBDO |Short-billed Dowitcher |

Site Descriptions-Maine

Scarborough Marsh

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Description: Scarborough Marsh is located about seven miles southwest of Portland, ME. The marsh consists of sand beach, intertidal mudflats and estuarine marsh with an extensive complex of flooded ditches and pannes. It is owned by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) and managed as part of the Scarborough Wildlife Management Area. There are seven survey hotspots within this site, mostly roost sites, which have been marked with dashed circles on the map above. All areas are easily accessible from roads or parking lots.

The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (120), SEPL (200), GRYE 921), LEYE (38), WHIM (34), RUTU (60), SESA (300), LESA (20) and SBDO (100).

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted throughout the marsh. Scarborough Marsh is a vast area and may require several volunteers to survey. Lindsay Tudor, MDIFW biologist, has divided the marsh into seven survey areas.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement error: *

Measurement bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Site 1: Western Beach

Description: Western Beach consists of sand beach and intertidal mudflats. The flats are used extensively by feeding shorebirds. The sand beach experiences heavy human use and therefore receives minimal shorebird use. The outstanding feature in this site is an intertidal shoal, which becomes an island during certain parts of the tide, concentrating large numbers of shorebirds. Numbers increase until the bar becomes covered at high tide, but birds quickly return as soon as it is exposed again feeding along the receding tide. Access is from the beach parking area.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted on the rising tide, but not at high tide.

Site 2: Eastern Road

Description: Eastern Road runs through the middle of Scarborough Marsh. The habitat adjacent to the road includes estuarine marsh and intertidal flats. Areas can be observed from Eastern Road and the golf course. Access is from Eastern Road.

Survey Method: Ground surveys from Eastern Road and the golf course.

Site 3: Pine Point

Description: This area contains sand beach, estuarine marsh and inter-tidal mudflats. Some roosting occurs in the sand beach areas. The major use occurs by feeding birds using the intertidal areas. Birds begin arriving in numbers two hours after high tide and increase through the falling tide. Access is from the Town landing parking lot or Public Beach lot.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the inter-tidal areas should be conducted from two hours after high tide through the falling tide.

Site 4: Dunstan Landing

Description: This area consists predominantly of estuarine marsh and pannes used both for feeding and roosting around the higher ranges of the tide. Access is through the Maine Audubon parking lot on Route 9.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the pannes should be conducted around the higher ranges of the tide.

Site 5: Jones Creek

Description: This area consists of irregularly inundated inter-tidal and brackish marsh, characterized by large areas of sparsely vegetated pannes and flats. Because this area is above the influence of tides, birds use it throughout the tidal cycle for roosting and feeding. Access is from Borden’s Seafood products lot, off Route 9.

Survey Method: Ground surveys. Tidal stage is not a factor at this area.

Site 6: Winnocks Neck

Description: This area consists of estuarine marsh and pannes. Shorebirds use the pannes for feeding and roosting predominantly around the higher ranges of the tide. Intertidal mudflats of the Scarborough River are exposed at low tide. Large numbers of shorebirds concentrate in this area, just up river from the railroad bridge, as the incoming tide begins covering the flats. Access points are located at Winnocks Neck Road, Salt Marsh Road and the railroad tracks.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the pannes should be conducted at the higher ranges of the tide for feeding and roosting birds; and/or ground surveys of the river mudflats north of the railroad tracks should be conducted on the incoming tide.

Site 7: Ocean View Lane

Description: This site consists of estuarine, emergent marsh and pannes. Shorebirds use the pannes for feeding and roosting predominantly around higher ranges of the tide. Access is by a dirt road at the end of Ocean View lane.

Survey Methods: Ground surveys of the pannes should be conducted at the higher ranges of the tide for feeding and roosting birds.

Biddeford Pool

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Description: Located about 7.5 miles south of Scarborough Marsh on the coast of Maine, Biddeford Pool is a tidal inlet formed by two spits of land connecting to an island. The Pool consists of large mudflats interspersed with shallow pools in the grassy areas. The beaches along the outer shores of Biddeford Pool are rocky, but the two barriers are made up of long stretches of sandy beach. The shorebird hotspots within the site are Fletcher Neck and Back Bay within the Pool and Fortunes Rocks to the southwest of the Pool.

The emergent marsh along the north side of Fletcher Neck is used extensively as roosting habitat. Observers can stand in the marsh just as the incoming tide covers the last areas of exposed flats and watch large numbers of shorebirds coming in to roost. Fletcher Neck can be accessed from Route 208, parking behind Hattie’s Deli (one mile from Route 9-208 junction) or parking spaces along Mile Stretch Road (Route 208).

Another particularly important roost area is the emergent marsh on the north side of Biddeford Pool, in Back Bay. There is a small sand/gravel/cobble beach that often supports large numbers of roosting shorebirds. This location is accessed across private property on Hills Beach Road.

Fortunes Rocks consists of a long narrow sandy beach with patches of rocky shoreline and at low tide sand and mud flats. Shorebirds frequently roost in fair numbers on the rock areas. The east side of this site, South Point and Beach Island, also supports large numbers of Purple Sandpipers during winter. Access is from Public Beach Parking Lot, Northwest corner of 5th street, and parking spaces along Mile Stretch Road.

Biddeford Pool is easily accessed from Route 208. Visibility is good for the entire site and observation points can be found easily from Fletcher Neck right behind Hattie’s Deli and the Back Bay marshes right off Hills Beach Road. Another important survey area is the sand bar located between Hills Beach and Basket Island.

The most common species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (434), LBPL, GRYE (57), LEYE (21), WHIM (34), RUTU (75), REKN (10), SAND (200), SESA (650), LESA (322), DUNL (81), SBDO (105) and SEPL (60).

All inter-tidal areas in Maine are public. However, the area above the high water mark surrounding Biddeford Pool is privately owned.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted three hours before high tide when the flats are almost covered and birds are concentrated on the last bits of mud or beginning to concentrate at the roosting areas (dashed circles on the map). Survey should take about three hours, before and during high tide. The Fortunes Rocks area should be walked end to end.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement error: *

Measurement bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Local Contacts: Kate O’Brien, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge; Nancy McReel, ISS Cooperator.

Sampson Cove, Cape Porpoise

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Description: Sampson Cove is located just east of Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise in Maine. The site is at the end of Fisher Road, off of Route 9. Ownership is mixed with some portions of the area owned by Rachel Carson NWR and other portions privately owned. This site contains approximately 66,432 square meters of creek bottom, approximately 95% of which is exposed at low tide due to it being wide and shallow. There are also approximately 34,698 square meters of marsh grass within this site and visibility can be hampered by it. But disturbance is relatively low and large portions of the marsh, across from the survey point and to the west, are owned and managed by Rachel Carson NWR.

Kate O’Brien, wildlife biologist for Rachel Carson NWR, has provided shorebird survey data from Samspon Cove. The most common species from 2004 peak survey count data are: SEPL (100), BBPL (27), SESA (100), SBDO (38) and PEEP (150).

Access: Sampson Cove can be accessed off of Fisher Road. Take Route 9 to the center of Cape Porpoise and turn east at the intersection where the road heads towards the harbor. Fisher Road is on the left hand side. The access point to Sampson Cove is private. Rachel Carson NWR must be contacted in advance to arrange for permission.

The main survey areas and vantage points within this site are located at the end of Fisher Road. One vantage point is directly ahead and towards the ocean to the east. A second vantage point can be accessed by walking along the shore and slightly to the west. Birds tend to concentrate on the mudflats at low tide and also along the salt marsh across the river.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted within two hours of low tide. The survey area is large and there are often a lot of birds, so a scope is a must. According to Kate O’Brien, surveyors will have a good view of the creek bed if they walk out onto the rocks. The visibility of birds is good on the creek-bed, but there is a small grass island to the northwest which obstructs vision. Walking down to the second survey point should provide a better view of birds that may be behind the grass island.

Selection Bias: Selection bias will be a factor if the grass island at this site prevents certain portions from being surveyed and changes occur in shorebird habitat use within these areas.

Measurement error: The visibility of birds occurring in portions of this area is poor. This could lead to measurement error in information reported from this site, particularly if there are many birds present behind tall grass. It is anticipated that measurement error will remain relatively constant over time and will not impair monitoring.

Measurement bias: Changes in vegetation or survey method at this site may result in this bias.

Pilot Studies: Low detection rates may result from visibility problems; detection rates should be calculated to adjust surveys accordingly. Vantage points may need to be adjusted to reduce measurement error at this site.

Local Contact: Kate O’Brien, Wildlife Biologist, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. (207) 646-9226.

Ox Cart Lane, Lower Wells

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Description: Ox Cart Lane is located on the Webhannet River, just inside Wells Beach in southern Maine. This site is in the Lower Wells Division of Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. It consists of 60,973 sq meters of tidal creek located at the end of Ox Cart Lane. In this area approximately 90% of the muddy Webhannet River bottom is exposed at low tide. Human disturbance at this site is relatively low and the area is protected for wildlife by Rachel Carson NWR. Access to refuge sites, including all salt marsh, is restricted and advance permission with refuge personnel is required.

Kate O’Brien, wildlife biologist for Rachel Carson NWR, has provided shorebird survey data from Ox Cart Lane. The most common species from 2004 peak survey count data are: SEPL (250), LEYE (15), GRYE (40), WILL (15), SESA (208), LESA (75) and PEEP (250).

Access: To reach this site, take Mile Road heading east off Route 9. The intersection of Route 9 and Mile Road is less than a mile north of the village of Charles Chase Corner. Coming down Mile Road, you will see the Ox Cart Motel on the left. Follow Ox Cart Lane until it becomes a dirt road. Stop where the dirt road ends and park. Walk to the top of the rise where there is an old foundation and survey to the north. Then survey the area from the vantage point of the muddy ramp on the left. Walking further down the dirt road takes one to the marsh edge and the south point of the survey area.

Visibility on the mudflats is good, but in the salt marsh, it is reduced due to light conditions and vegetation height. According to Kate O’Brien, surveyors would do well to begin with the north section first and then count from the southern point, looking north/northeast.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted within two hours of low tide by driving to the end of Ox Cart Lane. Park your car and walk to the top of the hill with the old foundation. After the northern section is surveyed, walk down the dirt road surveying birds in the southern section of the river bottom and marsh. Use caution so as not to flush birds. Surveys of this area should take less than one hour. A spotting scope is a must.

Selection Bias: The larger marsh at this site is partly obscured by tall grasses and birds foraging along the margins may not be visible from points along the road.

Measurement error: This can be a problem when viewing and counting distant birds, such as yellowlegs, which are visible at greater distances than small “peeps.” A pilot study is needed to establish how measurement error varies among species at this site.

Measurement bias: Future management and/or restoration of the marsh involving vegetation removal could result in bias over time. To determine the extent of such bias, changes in vegetation from year to year should be documented. Additionally, the vantage points for counting shorebirds may have to be adjusted between surveys if viewing conditions change in response to vegetation growth.

Pilot Studies: Low detection rates may result from visibility problems; detection rates should be calculated to adjust surveys accordingly.

Local Contacts: Kate O’Brien, Wildlife Biologist, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge (207) 646-9226

Bluff and Stratton Islands

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Description: Bluff and Stratton Islands are located in Saco Bay, about 1 ½ miles due south of Prout’s Neck. The islands are 20 feet high and grass covered, supporting seabird colonies as well as significant numbers of roosting shorebirds. Both islands are owned by the National Audubon Society. This site is an active research station and therefore not readily accessible to most individuals. Maine Dept of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) biologist, Lindsay Tudor, believes a large percentage of the shorebirds that roost here feed in Scarborough Marsh.

National Audubon Society - Seabird Restoration Program owns and manages Stratton Island as the Phineas W. Sprague Wildlife Sanctuary. A field team stays on the island from the early part of May through mid-August. They have worked with MDIFW in the past to provide shorebirds surveys for the ISS, and will continue to monitor shorebird use during their summer research. According to Scott Hall, they may be able to provide a few additional counts in April, September and October provided that transportation to the island can be arranged.

The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (250), DUNL (13), GRYE (17), LEYE (30), REKN (354), RUTU (300), SAND (111), SESA (1,050), LESA (75), SEPL (300), SBDO (845) and WHIM (65).

Survey Method: Access to the islands is by boat. Ground surveys should be conducted on site. For practical reasons, island research staff would be best qualified to survey the site.

Selection Bias: This site supports colonies of breeding birds during the summer and access is restricted for research and monitoring work. There is a potential for selection bias if a surveys cannot be arranged under the supervision of island research staff.

Measurement error: *

Measurement bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Local contacts: Scott Hall, Research Coordinator, NAS - Seabird Restoration Program.

BCR 14 Results – Shorebirds

Table 1. Focal shorebird species for BCR 14

|CODE |SPECIES |

|BBPL |Black-bellied Plover |

|SEPL |Semipalmated Plover |

|AMOY |American Oystercatcher |

|GRYE |Greater Yellowlegs |

|LEYE |Lesser Yellowlegs |

|SOSA |Solitary Sandpiper |

|SPSA |Spotted Sandpiper |

|WHIM |Whimbrel |

|RUTU |Ruddy Turnstone |

|REKN |Red Knot |

|SAND |Sanderling |

|SESA |Semipalmated Sandpiper |

|LESA |Least Sandpiper |

|WRSA |White-rump Sandpiper |

|DUNL |Dunlin |

|SBDO |Short-billed Dowitcher |

Site Descriptions-Maine

Presumpscot River and Mackworth Flats

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Presumpscot River

Description: The lower Presumpscot River contains an expansive mudflat area that provides very productive feeding ground for many birds. There is a waste water treatment plant nearby, which seems to provide a great deal of forage for shorebirds. Shorebird species seen at this site include: Black-bellied Plover, Killdeer, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher and both yellowleg species. Protected by Maine Audubon Society, this site is accessible from Gilsland Farm Wildlife Sanctuary or through the waste water treatment plant.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the mudflats should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Mackworth Flats

Description: This site is characterized by extensive mudflats and some marsh lands. Boundaries extend from Route 1 on the western edge to the Brothers Islands on the eastern point. Mackworth Flats may be accessed either by the bridge to Mackworth Island or by way of the Portland Country Club. The most common species from MDIFW data are: SESA, yellowlegs species and unidentified peep.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the mudflats should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Seawall Beach and Popham Beach State Park

Seawall Beach:

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Description: Seawall Beach is a major shorebird roosting area that consists of a long private sandy beach bordered by a salt marsh and the Sprague River to the north. Large concentrations of shorebirds have been found roosting and feeding on the sandy beach. The salt marsh along the Sprague River also supports roosting and feeding habitat for shorebirds. Seawall Beach and Popham Beach are separated by the Morse River. During an August, 1994 survey by MDIFW, approximately 1,000 shorebirds were observed flying back and forth from Popham Beach, Seawall Beach and three rock islands located just off the mainland. Species observed included Semipalmated Plover, Least Sandpiper, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpiper and Piping Plover. Seawall Beach is owned by the Small Point Association, which also owns Small Point Beach to the south. The inland shores are owned by the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area Corporation, which is dedicated to managing the area for scientific research and education. The area is further protected by an easement held by the Nature Conservancy.

The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (30), GRYE (12), LEYE (15), LESA (40), SESA (2,500), WRSA (14), RUTU (24), SAND (500), SEPL (400) and SBDO (30).

Access: There is no car access to Seawall Beach, but there is a parking lot off Route 216. Park here and take the dirt road leading over Morse Mountain down to the beach.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at high tide. On the eastern point of Seawall Beach, it is worth looking across the Morse River outflow for shorebirds that can be seen feeding and roosting on the southwest end of Hunnewell/Popham beach area.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: The heavy interchange of birds moving back and forth between Seawall and Popham presents a potential for double-counting and measurement bias.

Measurement Bias: Coordinated surveys, with an observer fitted to each of the two beaches, will help to minimize this bias. It will be helpful too if surveyors could report whether or not they observed shorebirds moving back and forth between the two beaches.

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Popham Beach State Park:

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Description: Popham Beach State Park is managed by the Maine Department of Conservation (DOC). Park habitats include tidal flats, dunes, sandy beach, salt marsh and coastal woodland. The Morse River separates Popham Beach from Seawall Beach. The salt marsh behind the beach is roosting and feeding habitat for shorebirds. The park is easily accessible from Route 209 in Phippsburg.

During the summer there is high level of disturbance from beach-goers along most of the sand beach. In the August 1994 survey by MDIFW, shorebirds were found on almost every part of the beach except near the parking lot, where human concentration was highest. Near the center of the beach there is a protruding mud flat that remains exposed through most of high tide. Many shorebirds were found feeding and roosting there among people walking the beach. Species observed included Semipalmated plovers, Least Sandpiper, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpiper and Piping Plover.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the beach should be conducted at high tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: The heavy interchange of birds moving back and forth between Seawall and Popham presents a potential for double-counting and measurement bias.

Measurement Bias: Coordinated surveys, with an observer fitted to each of the two beach sites, will help to minimize this bias. It will be helpful too if surveyors could report whether or not they observed shorebirds moving back and forth between the two beaches.

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Reid State Park

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Description: Reid State Park is managed by the Maine DOC. Park habitats include sand beach and dunes, tidal river, lagoon, salt marshes, rocky headlands, and woodland. The park is located at the end of Seguinland Road.

MDIFW surveys observed shorebirds at five separate areas (A-E). There are two very large sand beach communities, a small sand/gravel beach, a salt hay marsh, and a brackish pool. Site A is located along both sides of the road leading to Todd’s Point. This site is a roosting and feeding area with some shallow pools and mud flats. Least Sandpipers and Semipalmated Sandpipers were seen feeding and roosting in a small pool when the tide was two-thirds high and rising. Todd’s Point, Site B, is a large sand beach with an adjacent marsh that is used for roosting and feeding. When beachgoer disturbance is high, most of the shorebirds congregate at the very tip of the point. At other times, many shorebirds were seen roosting and feeding at the water’s edge around seaweed and other beach debris on the upper slope, and on exposed mud flats in the adjacent marsh. Shorebirds observed included: Ruddy Turnstones, Semipalmated Plovers, Least Sandpipers, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpipers and one Whimbrel (feeding in the salt marsh). Griffith’s Beach, Site C, is the larger sand beach in the park, which usually has higher levels of human disturbance than Todd’s Point. At the northern end of the beach, the shoreline changes to a feeding area. A brackish pool and salt marsh, Site D, is located directly behind the northern end of Griffith’s Beach. Black-bellied Plovers and one Least Sandpiper were observed feeding and roosting in the brackish pool and in the marsh. Site E is located at the northern-most end of the park and consists of a small sand/gravel beach and some rock islands just offshore. Black-bellied Plovers and Ruddy Turnstones were seen roosting on the offshore rock islands.

The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (347), LESA (41), RUTU (43), SAND (443), SEPL (266) and SESA (193).

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at high tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Local Contacts: Ted Allen, ISS Cooperator

Weskeag Marsh

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Description: Weskeag Marsh is a salt hay salt marsh community with abundant ditches, pools and pannes. The site is located at the head of the Weskeag River and accessible off Buttermilk Lane in South Thomaston. Large numbers of shorebirds and waterfowl congregate here to feed and roost. Shorebirds observed include Black-bellied Plover, Killdeer, Semipalmated Plover, Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher, Willet, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs. The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (800), DUNL (125), SEPL (475), LESA (250), SESA (2,000), SBDO (400), WILL, GRYE (92) and LEYE (300).

Survey Method: Ground survey the marsh at high tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Local contacts: Ron Joseph, Biologist, USFWS.

Over Point and Cove

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Description: Over Point and Cove are located on the west side of Petit Manan Point. At high tide this site is very good for supporting a variety of roosting shorebirds on the sand-gravel and cobble point. At low tide, in the sand and gravel, no shorebirds were observed feeding during the one observation by MDIFW. The most common identified species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SESA, SEPL, LESA, SBDO, GRYE, and LEYE.

To access the site, take Pigeon Hill Road past the gate and parking areas for the Petit Manan NWR. The road will be the first right hand turn down to a big cottage and a small church.

On the left there is a small parking area, which looks out onto Over Point.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at high tide.

Selection Bias: None. Measurement Error: * Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Back Bay, Mill River, and Flat Bay

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Back Bay

Description: Back Bay in Milbridge, Maine is an extensive flat of sand, mud and boulders. At high tide this site has a small roost located directly in front of an observation point about 1/8 mile out on exposed rock ledge. When this is full of birds, other birds are seen flying out of the bay in a southeast direction. At low tide this is a highly productive feeding site hosting thousands of shorebirds at a time. The most common species from MDIFW data are: SESA, SBDO, GRYE, LEYE, and numerous unidentified peep.

To access Back Bay, take Back Bay Road off of Rt. 1A to Ray’s Point Road. Back Bay can be seen on the right, 1/4 mile down Ray’s Point Road. There is parking on the right used by clammers.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Mill River

Description: This site consists of the lower Mill River located in Milbridge and Harrington. At high tide there is a small roost, used mainly by yellowlegs on the west side of the mouth of Mill river on a rock ledge. Many more birds may roost in the salt marsh up river. Most birds observed feeding, were located on the east side, half-way up river on the last bit of mudflat exposed before high tide, next to a summer home and small farm. The most common species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SEPL, SESA, SBDO, GRYE, LEYE, and numerous unidentified peep.

The best access to the site is at the end of Oak Point Road.

Survey Method: Ground surveys of the rock ledge and salt marsh at high tide.

Selection Bias: Potential for bias if birds are roosting out of sight of observers.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: Marsh up-river should be surveyed initially to determine if birds are using it as a roosting area.

Flat Bay

Description: Flat Bay is located in Harrington. It has substantial mudflats that host thousands of feeding shorebirds. There are no roosting areas at this site. The most common species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SEPL, SESA, SBDO, GRYE, LEYE, and numerous unidentified peep. Easy access also makes this a very popular area for clammers and wormers.

This site is accessed from the end of Oak Point Road.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Lower Wass Cove, Upper Wass Cove, and Pleasant River

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Lower Wass Cove

Description: Lower Wass Cove is located in Harrington on the west side of the Pleasant River. The cove provides highly productive mudflats at low tide, attracting hundreds of Semipalmated Sandpipers, Semipalmated Plovers, a few Black-bellied Plovers, and Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs. There are no high tide roosting areas within this site. This is a very popular site for wormers and clammers.

To access the cove, take a left off of Ripley Neck Road onto Wards Cove Road, turn left at the T and park on the side of the road next to the first camp on the right.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Upper Wass Cove

Description: The inside of Upper Wass Cove provides very productive mudflats for feeding at low tide. The outer portion of the cove consists of large mussel beds and may not be as productive for the smaller shorebirds. The most common species from MDIFW data are: SEPL, SESA, LESA. This cove is also a popular area for clammers and wormers.

To access the cove, take a left off Ripley Neck Road onto Wards Cove Road, go left at the T, and take the second right at the bottom of the hill. There is parking there for the clammers/wormers.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Pleasant River

Description: The east side of the Pleasant River, opposite of Dyer Cove and Upper Wass Cove, has extensive mudflats exposed at low tide. This cove is an excellent feeding area. The most common species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SEPL, SESA, LESA, SBDO, GRYE, LEYE, and numerous unidentified peep.

The best way to access this site is to pull off to the side of the South Addison road and walk the shoreline the length of the site.

Survey Method: Ground survey by walking the length of the site at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Crowley Island

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Description: Located about 2 ½ miles due west of Jonesport, Crowley Island is a large island in close proximity to the mainland and surrounded by the Indian and the West rivers. It is a productive feeding area with extensive mud flats on either side of the island at low tide. This site also serves as a limited roosting area with protection from the elements. Roosting has been observed on large boulders exposed at high tide on both sides of the island. An unfinished bridge leading to the island is used by anglers and as an access point for many worm diggers and clammers. Human disturbance is minimal with no houses near this area and boat traffic is light. Development of this island could deter shorebirds from frequenting it. The most common species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SEPL, SESA, SBDO and numerous unidentified peep.

Access to the island is by taking Route 187 to Indian River, then taking the dirt road on the right at Grange Hall to the end of the road at Crowley Island Bridge.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: This site may need to be sub-sampled if the mudflats are too expansive to cover completely.

Sprague Neck, Cutler

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Description: Sprague Neck is property of the U.S. Navy in Cutler. The Navy maintains a Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station, which comprises 3,000 acres on Sprague Neck Peninsula. Sprague Neck Bar is designated as an Ecological Reserve and Watchable Wildlife Area allowing for easy access.

Sprague Neck Bar is a long cobble bar vegetated predominantly by grasses. There is a large open area at the end of the bar with temporary and highly saline ponds. Both areas are primarily high tide roosts, with some feeding at other tides as well. Most numerous species from ISS data are: BBPL (120), SBDO (82), SEPL (199), and SESA (2,377).

Survey Method: Ground surveys the bar area at high tide.

Selection Bias: None Measurement Error: * Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Lubec: Gravel Bar, Flats, Center, and Medical Center

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Lubec Gravel Bar:

Description: Lubec Gravel Bar is an exposed cobble spit with a tidal lagoon between the sandbar and west Quoddy head. This site is a roost used by many of the shorebirds observed feeding over on Lubec flats. It may have light human disturbance. The most common species from MDIFW data are: BBPL, SESA, SEPL and numerous unidentified peeps. The gravel bar may be accessed by walking behind the house with the solarium or past the “Eastern Most Gift Shop” on the left off of West Quoddy Head Road.

Survey Method: Ground survey should be conducted at high tide for roosting birds.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Lubec Flats:

Description: At low tide, Lubec Flats is an extensive mud flat with a gravel bar. The flat and gravel bar are feeding sites. At high tide, this site supports a moderately sized estuarine salt marsh with salt pannes. The shoreline consists of sand/gravel beach. There are no man-made structures on or near the gravel bar, which is owned by MDIFW and a Wildlife Management Area open to the public. MDIFW has observed some human disturbance, mainly from bird watchers and people walking their dogs along the beach. There is evidence (garbage, burned debris, etc.) that there may be more disturbance at night. The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (1,000), LESA (226), SAND (1,000), SEPL (1,700) and SESA (1,389).

Access to Lubec Flats is from Route 189 on Lubec Neck. Heading south from Rte 189, take South Lubec Road toward West Quoddy Head State Park. Then turn left onto a dirt road across from the “Wheel Magic” wool shop.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Lubec Center:

Description: Lubec Center has two separate survey areas (LC Site A and LC Site B on the map). Lubec Center Site A is a sand/gravel flat that supports a small, estuarine system with salt pannes surrounded by a sandy spit. Lubec Center Site B consists of rocky, cobble shoreline just south of Woodward Point in the midsection of the entire Lubec site. LC Site B is an estuarine system that empties out at low tide. There are scattered homes within 200 feet of the entire shoreline, no boat traffic and only light human disturbance (beachgoers) was observed during a survey by MDIFW. The most common shorebird species from MDIFW data are: SESA, LESA, SEPL and numerous unidentified peeps.

Access to the Lubec Center sites is from South Lubec Road off of Route 189. LC Site A may be accessed at the small town park on the left off of South Lubec Road. Lubec Center site B is just past the bridge over the river system on South Lubec Road, on the left at the house with the pyramid structures.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Lubec Medical Center:

Description: Lubec Medical Center also consists of two separate survey areas (LMC Site A and LMC Site B on the map). Both are primarily feeding areas and very few shorebirds have been observed roosting. Lubec Medical Center site A consists of a sand and gravel beach with some cobble just southeast of Mowry Point and the Lubec Narrows. There is light human disturbance here and no boat traffic. There is a water treatment plant nearby and a pier on the eastern edge of the survey area. The sand/gravel flat supports about 40% algae mat cover.

Lubec Medical Center site B consists of a large sandbar located further out from shore, which is exposed at mid to low tides. Numbers of roosting birds on the sandbar here increased during later fall season observations by MDIFW, perhaps because the area is protected from northern winds in September and October. The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (200), LESA (100), SESA (2,000), SAND (100) and SEPL (300).

To access the survey areas at Lubec Medical Center, turn right on the street just before the International Bridge over to Campobello Island. Lubec Medical Center is at the end of the street past the waste water treatment facility. Surveys of the large sandbar at site B should be done by walking the beach with the aid of a high-powered scope.

Survey Method: Ground surveys should be conducted at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: This may be a problem when viewing and counting distant birds in so far as yellowlegs species are visible at greater distances than small peeps. A pilot study may be needed to establish how measurement error varies among species at this site.

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: None needed.

Local contacts: Lindsay Tudor, Biologist, Wildlife Resource Assessment Section, ME Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Carrying Place Cove, Eastport

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Description: Carrying Place Cove in Eastport is an extensive mud flat with a 90% algae mat cover at low tide. Mathews Island, although never surveyed, could be a potential roost site with a rocky shoreline. No boat traffic or human disturbance was observed. There are a few buildings within 200 feet of the high water mark. This site was resurveyed by MDIFW in 1998 and was heavily used by feeding sandpipers during September when the tide was 2/3 high. Over 1,500 birds were observed on two occasions. The most numerous species from ISS maximum count data are: BBPL (24), LESA (37), SESA (3,500), SAND (21) SEPL (25).

The best access to the cove is along Route 190 south on the right hand side of the road. Another access point is at the end of Eastport Municipal Airport road, via private property. Parking is available on Route 190 at the Watchable Wildlife Sign.

Survey Method: Ground surveys at low tide.

Selection Bias: None.

Measurement Error: *

Measurement Bias: *

Pilot Studies: Initial survey of Matthews Island should be conducted at high tide to check for roosting birds. Also, best survey time should be determined (falling or rising tide).

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank Lindsay Tudor for her help in providing the list of sites and information about them for this report.

References

Canadian Wildlife Service. Canadian Shorebird Conservation Plan. Accessed August 2008.

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U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. U.S. Shorebird Plan. Accessed August 2008.



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