B08_Attachment_7_Interim_Survey_Methodology_for_the_N_Aplomado_Falcon_in_Desert_Grasslands_2003.pdf

INTERIM

SURVEY METHODOLOGY FOR THE

NORTHERN APLOMADO FALCON

(Falco femoralis septentrionalis)

IN

DESERT GRASSLANDS

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service New Mexico Ecological Services Office

2105 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, NM 87113

(505) 346-2525

May 20, 2003

INTERIM

SURVEY METHODOLOGY FOR THE

NORTHERN APLOMADO FALCON

(Falco femoralis septentrionalis)

IN

DESERT GRASSLANDS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service New Mexico Ecological Services Off ice

2105 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113

(505) 346-2525

May 20, 2003 i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

NATURAL HISTORY

Identif icat ion Habitat and Home Range Breeding Chronology Diet and Prey Base

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

Surveyor Qualificat ions and Documentation Survey Design Goals Basic Equipment

SYSTEM-WIDE SURVEYS

Survey Object ives Survey Area and Route Select ion Survey Periods and Weather Constraints Survey Data Collect ion

PROJECT-SPECIFIC SURVEYS

Survey Object ives Survey Area and Route Select ion Survey Periods and Weather Constraints Survey Data Collect ion

AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES

Report Preparat ion

LITERATURE CITED

Appendix A. List of contacts to report aplomado sight ings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1

Appendix B. Rare bird/aplomado falcon observat ion form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

Appendix C. Field data form. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3 ii

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Summary of survey methodologies for system-w ide surveys and project-specific surveys

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Photographs of (a)(b) adult, Chihuahua, Mexico, and (c) immature aplomado falcons, S. Texas, show ing plumage characteristics and (d) an example of a nest site, Chihuahua, Mexico

Figure 2. Photographs show ing (a)(b) suitable (occupied) yucca/grassland and (c) mesquite/grassland habitat, Chihuahua, Mexico, and (d) potential (unoccupied) yucca/grassland habitat, Doña Ana County, New Mexico

Interim Survey Methodology - Northern Aplomado Falcon (5/20/03)

INTERIM

SURVEY METHODOLOGY FOR THE NORTHERN APLOMADO FALCON

(Falco femoralis septentrionalis)

IN DESERT GRASSLANDS

INTRODUCTION

This interim protocol is intended to promote consistent and reliable surveys for evaluat ion by the U.S. Fish and Wildlif e Service (Service) for proposed Federal act ions or act ivit ies that may affect t he aplomado falcon. The methods presented here are geared tow ard aplomados in the desert grasslands, but are generally applicable in all other port ions of the species’ range. Secondarily, this methodology is designed to take a proact ive approach in gathering baseline information on avian trends and habitat specif ics in order to ident ify factors limit ing the falcon' s recovery as well as to provide conservation solutions for land management agencies. Heightened interest in the species follow s f rom increased aplomado falcon presence in Texas and New Mexico, breeding pairs in the southern New Mexico grasslands, and aplomado falcons in northern Chihuahua, Mexico (Meyer et al. in review , Montoya et al. 1997, Young et al. 2002).

The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, (Act ) requires Federal agencies to ensure that any action they fund, authorize, or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a threatened or endangered species. Regulat ions implementing Sect ion 7 of the Act require that Federal agencies (or their non-Federal designees) determine if any act ion they propose "may affect" any threatened or endangered species.

If it is determined that a proposed act ion " may affect" an endangered or threatened species, then the agency is required to request f ormal Sect ion 7 consultat ion w ith the Service. Sect ion 7 also directs Federal agencies to ut ilize their authorities to further the purposes of the Act by carrying out programs for the conservation of endangered and threatened species. We anticipate that presence/absence surveys, along with baseline and habitat trend data would help address aplomado conservation or management needs.

This methodology w as developed in response to agency/applicant requests for guidance in determining the presence of aplomado falcons for compliance under the Act . Surveys are of ten essential in determining ef fects to the species w ithin potent ial or suitable habitat.

This document is a guide and adherence to or disregard for the methodology does not, of itself, show compliance w ith or violat ion of t he Act or other regulat ions. The methodology may be revised as know ledge of the species and it s habitat increases, and as more eff icient survey techniques come to light.

The northern aplomado falcon w as listed as an endangered species by the Service in March, 1986. The falcon's ext irpat ion as a breeding bird from the U.S. and evidence of population declines and high levels of pesticide contamination in eastern Mexico (Kiff et al.

1978) w ere the primary just if icat ions for its endangered status (51 FR: 6686-6690).

Hector (1981, 1987) gives a thorough account of historical aplomado falcon occurrence in the U.S. from his invest igations of museum collect ions and available literature. He noted that the aplomado falcon was a regular breeding species in the coastal grasslands of southern Texas, and the desert grasslands of w estern Texas, southern New Mexico, and southeastern Arizona until the early 1930s. Hector (1983, 1987) also reported that the highest aplomado nest ing densit ies w ithin the U.S. historically occurred in south-cent ral New Mexico and southern Texas. Aplomado falcon populat ions in the U.S. declined dramatically during the 1930s-40s, possibly due to a combination of collecting pressure (Hector 1983, 1987) and adverse habitat modif ication (Ligon 1961; Hector 1981, 1987;

Henry and Cathey 1995). Bayne (cited in Ligon 1961) noted the last know n nest ing pair of aplomados in the U.S., in May 1952, near Deming, Luna County, New Mexico.

Within New Mexico, aplomado falcons were historically reported from the southern tier of count ies including Doña Ana, Eddy, Grant , Hidalgo, Lea, Luna, Otero, and Sierra.

According to Henry and Cathey (1995), patches of suitable aplomado falcon habitat appear to remain in southern New Mexico. However, combinat ions of heavy grazing (Hector 1981), the encroachment of mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa), (Humphrey 1958;

Buff ington and Herbel 1965; Hector 1987; Henry and Cathey 1995), and proliferat ion of " w eed" species such as snakeweed (Gutierrezia spp.) (Montoya, pers. obs.) may currently affect the habitat suitability of the aplomado in many areas of its former desert grassland range.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD) (Ward and Ingraldi 1994) init iated grassland raptor/aplomado falcon surveys as a means of long-term monitoring of raptors, ravens, and loggerhead shrikes (Lanius ludovicianus) in the grassland communit ies of southeastern Arizona. The detect ion of any aplomado falcons occurring in Arizona and monitoring of specif ic areas w ith the potential for aplomado falcon reintroduction was of primary interest. Ward (AGFD, pers. comm. 1994) also reported that AGFD is invest igat ing unconfirmed aplomado falcon reports from northern Sonora, Mexico.

For the next three decades since 1952, aplomado falcon sightings were few and w idely scattered in New Mexico (Williams 1997) and have been reported sporadically throughout its historic U.S. range (J. Lew is, USFWS, pers. comm. 1991). Beginning in the 1990s, aplomado falcon reports began to increase as 27-32 falcons w ere reported in the southern part of New Mexico, w ith 3-6 observations occurring per year in the latter part of the decade (Meyer et al. in review). In 2000, not only had the high frequency of sight ings continued, but pairs of birds and territ ories w ere being encountered in southern New Mexico. Although heightened aw areness and vigilance likely contributed in part to the increase in reports, these observations indicate a signif icant and growing presence of the falcon in New Mexico (Meyer et al. in review ). Aplomado falcons also occur in the desert grasslands of Chihuahua, Mexico and are a source for falcons occurring in New Mexico and West Texas. In addition, there is one account from near Marfa, Texas, in 1992 (Lasley and Sexton 1992) and another reliable account in 1996 near Van Horn, Texas.

Beginning in 2002, banded, capt ive-bred aplomados have been released at sites in West Texas as part of a re-introduct ion effort.

NATURAL HISTORY

Identification

Aplomado falcons are long-tailed neotropical falcons intermediate in size betw een the American kestrel (Falco sparverius) and prairie falcon (F. mexicanus) (Hector 1983). The female aplomado being larger than the male, both sexes combined measure about 30-40 cm in length, have a w ingspan of about 80-90 cm., and w eigh about 250-500 grams (Hector 1988). In the U.S., aplomados may occur sympatrically throughout the year w ith the American peregrine falcon (F. peregrinus anatum), prairie falcon, American kestrel, and w ith merlin (F. columbarius) and Arct ic peregrine falcon (F. p. tundrius) outside the breeding season. This emphasizes the need for careful observation to avoid confusion of suspected aplomado falcons w ith other more common falcons.

Adult aplomados can be distinguished from other North American falcons by their long tail and a dist inct broad dark or black " cummerbund" on the low er breast, w hich at close range may show faint w hite barring (Figure 1-a). The tail is also crossed w ith several thin w hite bars. The upper breast is w hite to creamy and may have variable amounts of black st reaking. The low er abdomen and undertail coverts are rufous. When view ed f rontally at a distance, the falcon imparts a dist inct ive " tri-colored" (w hite-black-rufous) appearance.

The back and dorsal w ing surfaces are blue-gray or lead-colored (hence the Spanish name:

aplomado). Facial markings are striking w ith a blackish cap and nape contrasted by a bold w hite supraorbital (facial) st ripe that forms a " V" tow ards the nape; at close proximit y, the stripes are w hite tow ards the face and become more rufous tow ard the nape. Immature aplomados are more brownish on the back and upperw ing surfaces and the breast and facial stripes are cinnamon colored, w ith heavy streaking on the breast (Figure 1-c). Both adult s and immature falcons have dist inct ive w hite trailing edges on the w ings (Figure 1-b).

Flight prof iles of both adult and immature aplomados are similar to other falcons, except for the longer tail. Flight is generally low and direct , t hough they w ill occasionally soar.

Aplomado falcons pursue prey in a variety of fashions. They have been observed to pursue prey in direct linear flight, tower above prey and stoop (dive upon), and to " haw k" or snatch insects from a perch. Aplomados have been observed to pursue prey on the ground and pairs of ten hunt cooperatively (Hector 1986a; Montoya, pers. obs.). In addition, juvenile falcons released in South Texas have been noted to hunt cooperat ively in groups (Perez, pers. obs.). Aplomados will occasionally follow coyotes and humans using them as “ beaters” , to capture f lushed prey (Montoya, pers. obs.). Aplomados have also been know n to steal prey caught by other raptors (kleptoparasitism) and hunt along the leading edges of grassf ires (Perez, pers. obs.). Aplomados released in Texas are f it ted w ith permanent black (female) or silver (male) anodized aluminum bands w hile the aplomados captured in Chihuahua, Mexico, w ere equipped w ith colored plastic leg bands (Montoya et al. 1997). The anodization used on the bands in Texas may fade w ith t ime.

(a) adult northern aplomado falcon (b) adult northern aplomado falcon Chihuahua, Mexico. show ing white trailing edge on w ing, Chihuahua, Mexico.

(c) immature northern aplomado falcon, (d) northern aplomado falcon nest Laguna Atascosa NWR, Texas. site, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Figure 1. Photographs of adult (a) and (b), Chihuahua, Mexico, and immature (c) aplomado falcons, Laguna Atascosa NWR, show ing plumage characterist ics and an example of a nest site (d), Chihuahua, Mexico.

Habitat and Home Range

Aplomado falcons have been documented from a variety of open w oodland, savanna, and grassland habitats (Hector 1981, USFWS 1990). Within the Chihuahuan desert, aplomados typically occur in open grassland areas w ith scattered mesquite and/or soap tree yucca (Yucca elata) or Torrey yucca (Y. torreyi) (Ligon 1961, Montoya et al. 1997) (Figure 2). Montoya et al. (1997) found that w oody vegetat ion densities in aplomado home ranges in Chihuahua, Mexico, varied from 11 .2 to 139.5 plants/hectare (ha) w ith no signif icant dif ference betw een nest ing and non-nest ing territ ories. Ground cover ranged from 28.9% to 69.5% on aplomado territ ories and also did not dif fer signif icant ly betw een nesting and non-nesting territories (means equalled 49.9% versus 37.8%, respect ively).

Montoya et al. (1997) used the minimum convex polygon method to determine home range sizes for individual aplomados during the breeding season. Home range est imates for individual falcons monitored more than 100 days (n= 6) ranged from 3.3 to 21.4 km2.

Meyer et al. (in review ) notes a territory of roughly 24 km2 for a pair in southern New Mexico.

With respect to juvenile dispersal, a 1993-94 study of 28 radio-tagged aplomados released in South Texas revealed that from 2-6 months post-release, the movements of 14 monitored falcons did not permanently extend beyond 10 km f rom the 18,268 ha Laguna Atascosa Nat ional Wildlife Refuge boundary (Perez et al. 1996). At least 6 aplomado falcons w ith funct ioning transmit ters w ere st ill in the general vicinit y of the Refuge 6 months post-release; how ever, dispersals have been recorded for other released falcons.

One male falcon dispersed 136 km north of the release area at an age of 70 days (Perez et

al. 1996), and another male dispersed 22 km south of the refuge near Brow nsville, Texas, in 1989 (Peregrine Fund, 1992). Daily linear movements of up to 55 km show the highly mobile behavior of young aplomados (Perez et al. 1996). Dispersal pat terns betw een reintroduced and w ild aplomados may be different. A juvenile female banded in Chihuahua, Mexico in May/June of 1999 w as discovered in September of that year on Otero Mesa, Otero County, New Mexico, a distance of 300 km (R. Meyer, pers. obs.).

Breeding Chronology

Aplomado falcons appear to be resident across most of their northern range where populations currently exist in Mexico (Hector 1981; Montoya, pers. obs.). Ligon (1961) noted that aplomados tend to occur in pairs. Primary nest ing occurs from March to June in northern Chihuahua and New Mexico, w ith courtship displays observed as early as late January and early February (Montoya, pers. obs., Meyer et al. in review). In the northw est port ion of their range, aplomado falcons typically use st ick nests const ructed by other large bird species such as Sw ainson' s hawks (Buteo swainsoni), Chihuahuan ravens (Corvus cryptoleucus), and possibly w hite-tailed kites (Elanus leucurus). Nests are usually situated in forks of yuccas (Figure 1-d), or in the tops of mesquite trees. In South Texas, an abandoned raven nest atop a 20-meter electrical tow er was used by a pair of aplomados in 1995 (Peregrine Fund, unpubl. rpt.). Both sexes part icipate in an approximate 32-day incubation (Hector 1981), w ith young f ledging approximately 35 days after hatching. Fledglings may remain in the vicinit y of the nest for at least a month af ter f ledging (Hector 1981; Meyer et al. in review , Perez, pers. obs.).

(a) suitable yucca/grassland habitat, (b) suitable yucca/grassland Chihuahua, Mexico. habitat, Chihuahua, Mexico.

(c) suitable mesquite/grassland habitat, (d) potential yucca/grassland Chihuahua, Mexico. habitat, Doña Ana County, New

Mexico.

Figure 2. Photographs show ing suitable (occupied) yucca/grassland habitat (a) and (b) and mesquite/grassland habitat (c), Chihuahua, Mexico, and potential (unoccupied) yucca/grassland habitat, Doña Ana County, New Mexico.

Diet and Prey Base

Research by Hector (1981), Jiménez (1993), and Montoya et al. (1997) show a w ide array of birds, insects, mammals, and reptiles composing the aplomado diet. Ligon (1961) similarly reported from the New Mexico " open yucca desertland" that the food of t he aplomado consists almost w holly of small rept iles, lizards, mice, other rodents, grasshoppers, and various other kinds of insects. Ligon (1961) also found aplomados feeding in the summer on bats in the Jornada del Muerto grassland, near Engle, New Mexico. Curiously, Ligon (1961) noted that small birds rarely comprised their diet, except in w inter when other food is lacking.

In eastern Mexico, birds comprised 94% of individual prey items in remains examined and 35% of prey items seen captured, w hile insects comprised approximately 65% of prey items seen captured (Hector 1985). Additionally, Hector (1981) determined that 97% of the prey biomass consisted of birds in eastern Mexico. Montoya et al. (1997) found a similar preference for avian prey items w ith meadow larks (Sturnella neglecta and S.

magna), common nighthaw ks (Chordeiles minor) and northern mockingbirds (Mimus polyglottos) among the most frequently taken birds in northern Chihuahua.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

Surveyor Qualifications and Documentation

Individual observers are often the single greatest source of variability in any survey eff ort (Verner 1985); therefore, surveyors should be highly proficient in bird identif icat ion (part icularly raptors/falcons), in correctly applying the survey methodology, and in exercising good common sense to avoid disturbing sensitive species or habitat during the course of the surveys. Nonetheless, since specif ic surveys for aplomado falcons may involve a disruption of normal behavioral act ivit ies such as feeding, roosting, or nesting, surveyors should possess a valid Federal permit pursuant to Sect ion 10(a)(1)(B).

Endangered species permit applicat ions may be obtained by w riting to: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Ecological Services Division; Attn: Permits; P.O. Box 1306; Albuquerque, NM 87103-1306. If there are any quest ions about Federal permit s, the appropriate Service Field Off ice or the Service's Regional Permits Off ice should be contacted for clarificat ion prior to undertaking survey activit ies. It may also be necessary to contact the appropriate state agency regarding their permitt ing requirements. Aplomado observations should be reported immediately to the Ecological Services Field Off ice and the endangered species/non-game branch of the appropriate state game and fish department (Appendix A).

All observations of aplomado falcons should be thoroughly described using the format provided in Appendix B. Photographs of any identif ied or suspected aplomado falcons should also be taken and submit ted to the above agencies.

Survey Design Goals

There are tw o types of surveys. The f irst , and more desirable of the tw o survey types, involves system or basin-w ide surveys encompassing an ent ire grassland area (i.e., Otero Mesa) that is similar to AGFD' s grassland raptor surveys (Ward and Ingraldi 1994). These surveys w ould be conducted at regular intervals in a scientif ically rigorous fashion. The goal of system-w ide surveys is to provide reliable data for incorporat ion into project design or large-scale programs. This methodology can provide the quantif iable data to monitor trends in avian species abundance over time. Trend data are often necessary and missing elements in the proper evaluation of large scale projects/programs. System-w ide surveys are basically intended to address large scale projects or programs occurring over a long period of t ime. Often, the ef fects of such projects/programs on the falcon or it s habitat are more subt le than the more apparent impacts of a specif ic or localized project and thus, the analysis of those usually requires such baseline habitat or trend information.

The second survey type is the project-specif ic survey that focuses on determining aplomado falcon presence and habitat suitability in an identif ied area before an "act ion" takes place. This survey method is for projects that are brief, have specif ic impacts, and w here trend data are not necessary. Procedures described in the system-w ide and project -specif ic survey types are outlined in Table 1 (Page 13).

Basic Equipment

Three pieces of opt ical equipment are essent ial to conduct ing aplomado falcon surveys.

These include: (1) a quality pair of binoculars of at least 8x w ith good light gathering capabilit y, (2) a spot t ing scope of at least 20x to observe raptors detected at greater distances, and (3) a camera w ith a telephoto lens powerful enough to produce ident if iable photos (i.e., at least a 200mm telephoto lens). Color slide f ilm is preferred so that photos can be easily magnif ied for more detailed inspection at a later date. The Service recommends this equipment be used to allow an observer to w atch an individual bird from a suff icient distance that does not result in behavioral changes, particularly in nesting situations.

SYSTEM-WIDE SURVEYS

Survey Objectives

System-w ide surveys provide a proact ive approach to monitoring avian trends and assessing habitat characteristics important in conservation and recovery of aplomado falcons. This survey protocol generally follow s that of established Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) and, more specif ically, procedures described by Ward and Ingraldi (1994) for Arizona. This methodology is intended to help address long term aplomado falcon management for large scale projects, actions, or programs occurring over t ime where important baseline/t rend information is needed.

Survey Area and Route Selection

Survey areas should consider historical or potential occurrence of aplomado falcons and/or the existence of potent ial habitat w ithin the act ion area. In this document , potent ial habitat is any range or grassland containing prominent but scattered w oody vegetation as described earlier in the Habitat and Home Range sect ion. More specif ic habitat information may be obtained through literature such as the descript ions by Hector (1981, 1986b, 1987) and/or the desert grassland habitat descript ions found in Dick-Peddie et al.

(1993), and Young et al. (2002). Topographic and vegetat ion maps can also help in the process of determining survey areas/routes w ithin potential habitat. Once a specif ic survey area is determined, routes can be selected through the use of current maps showing exist ing roads. This methodology assumes exist ing roads are available for adequate coverage. However, w e recommend coordinat ing w ith the appropriate Service Field Off ice beforehand for any site-specif ic concerns regarding survey areas and/or routes. Survey routes should be a minimum of 16 km (10 mi) in length, w ith survey points every 0.8 km (0.5 mi). The maximum length of survey routes is f lexible but limited by the survey t ime frames def ined in the next sect ion. If a point is located w here the view is obst ructed, the surveyor should move a short distance (i.e. w ithin a radius of 100m) until a clear view is obtained. If a system is particularly large or the roads disjunct, tw o or more routes may be designated w ithin the survey area to provide adequate coverage. Adequate coverage w ould generally consist of the minimum number of routes needed to " view " all port ions of the act ion area containing potent ial habitat. Survey routes and observat ion point s w it hin t he act ion area should all be clearly indicated on U.S.

Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5 minute topographic maps.

Survey Periods and Weather Constraints

Although aplomado falcons are believed to inhabit their range year-round (USFWS 1990), they are most conspicuous during their breeding season. Therefore, the majority (approximately 2/3) of system-w ide surveys should be conducted betw een 1 February and 31 August, w hich represents the timing for the major portion of the courtship, nesting, and post-fledging season. For example, if six surveys are planned, four should be conducted betw een the above ment ioned dates w hile the other tw o could be conducted during the w inter months. Surveys w ithin and outside the breeding season should be evenly spaced but not more frequent than a 2-4 w eek interval of each other, to minimize temporal biases. Minimum survey requirements are provided here; how ever, the greater the survey effort , the greater the probabilit y of detect ing rarer species.

Time and w eather rest rict ions are necessary to ensure that surveys are conducted w hen detectability w ill not be biased due to w ind, precipitation, or temperature (Verner 1985).

Falcons most act ively hunt in the mornings and evenings (Robbins 1981a; Montoya, pers.

obs.). Wind and precipitation not only impair an observer’s ability to detect w ildlife (Verner 1985), but have been documented to cause behavioral changes in raptors to avoid inclement w eather (Bildstein 1978, Wilkinson and Debbon 1980, Robbins 1981b).

Therefore, to minimize t ime and w eather period variability, surveys should be conducted in the mornings from sunrise to 4 hours after sunrise. Weather information should be recorded on the survey data form at the beginning of the survey; any changes in the w eather during the course of the survey should also be noted. Surveys should only be conducted w hen there is no precipitat ion and sustained w ind speeds are < 16 kph (< 10 mph). Wind speeds can be roughly estimated against a standard such as the Beaufort Scale w here w ind speeds less than 16 kph can be characterized as calm to a gent le breeze w hich extends lightw eight f lags. Wind condit ions that raise dust or loose paper w ould generally not be good survey condit ions.

Survey Data Collection

Data collected for system-w ide surveys should, at a minimum, include all raptors and ravens observed. Raptor-like species, such as the loggerhead shrike, should also be surveyed (Ward and Ingraldi 1994). In addition, the Service recommends the counting and identif ying of all avian species at these survey points (similar to the BBS) since this can give a valuable index of avian prey availability for aplomado falcons. For documentation of the full complement of avian species w ithin the survey area, all auditory and visual detect ions should be recorded similar to the BBS protocol. This requires a knowledge of species’ calls and songs as well as visual identif icat ion prof iciency. We recommend including general vegetat ional notes and habitat descriptions of t he act ion area w ith some emphasis on the relat ive grass cover height/t ypes and the spacing of prominent w oody vegetat ion/types. Hector (1986b) describes the relat ive importance of vegetative st ructure and pat terns of aplomado habitat for reference.

During the aplomado falcon survey, a single "qualified" observer w ill stop at each observation point (exit the vehicle) and spend a minimum of 10 minutes listening and scanning the sky and all potent ial perch sites in a 360/ area for the desired species.

Binoculars and spot t ing scopes should be used to posit ively ident if y individual birds at a distance. A second person may record, but all observation data should be collected by one observer. Once the desired data are recorded, move direct ly to the next observation point t o minimize recounting individuals. Individuals seen from one point should not be recounted at another.

Nest site availability appears to be a limiting factor for the aplomado, since they do not construct their ow n nests but ut ilize the abandoned nests of other raptors and ravens.

Therefore, the documentation of st ick nests w ill assist in the assessment of habitat suitability. All raptor and raven nests (large stick nests) located in the course of the survey should be tallied and their location marked on USGS 7.5 minute topographic maps.

Data collected for each nest site should include nesting activity and species identif icat ion (if act ive). View all suspected aplomado nests from a distance of 75-100 meters w ith binoculars or a spott ing scope to avoid causing any nest disturbance and possible abandonment. Surveyors should be aware that, w ith the except ion of rock doves, house sparrow s, and European starlings, migratory birds and their nests/eggs are protected under the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

PROJECT-SPECIFIC SURVEYS

Survey Objectives

Project-specif ic surveys are designed to determine the presence of aplomado falcons occurring in potential habitat w ithin an act ion area. Depending on the project , the act ion area may also include sites indirect ly or cumulatively impacted by the project and related act ivit ies. Efforts w ill be directed at intensively surveying all habitat w ithin the act ion area having the potent ial of support ing aplomado falcons. Habitat of primary interest includes grasslands with a scattered, but prominent, w oody component such as yucca and/or mesquite. How ever, potential habitat may vary somew hat across the region as to the specif ic plant species composition. Habitats marginal in suitability (i.e. habitats that are dominated by w oody vegetation rather than grass) w ill have low er priorit y for survey efforts. Since this survey type is to detect the presence of aplomado falcons for localized actions, rather than including monitoring trends or repeatable data collect ion, project-specif ic surveys are designed to be more f lexible but intensive.

Survey Area and Route Selection

Survey areas should consider historical or potential occurrence of aplomado falcons and/or the existence of potential habitat w ithin the act ion area. Potential habitat is any range or grassland containing scattered and prominent w oody vegetation, as described earlier.

More specif ic habitat information may be obtained through literature such as the descript ions by Hector (1981, 1986b, 1987) and/or the desert grassland habitat descript ions found in Dick-Peddie et al. (1993), and Young et al. (2002). As w ith the system-wide method, survey areas and routes should be coordinated w ith the respect ive Service Field Off ice beforehand to address any concerns. Topographic and vegetat ion maps can also help in the process of determining survey areas. Survey routes should be delineated in a manner that provides a complete look of all potential habitat w ithin the act ion/impact area. Routes w ill vary in number and length, depending on size of the project area and amount of potent ial habitat to be surveyed. Observation point s for road surveys should be located every 0.5 to 1.2 km (0.3 to 0.75 mi), depending on visibility and habitat priority. If a given observation point has an obstructed view of the surroundings, the surveyor should move a short distance (i.e. w ithin a radius of 100m) in order to alleviate the const rained view . If the potent ial habitat and/or project area is large, mult iple routes w ill need to be designated w ithin the area for adequate coverage. The project act ion area, habitat types, survey routes, and observation points should all be clearly indicated on USGS 7.5 minute maps.

Fuller and Mosher (1987) state that foot surveys produce low er detect ion rates but can give a thorough survey of small areas. Pedestrian surveys are recommended for small patches of habitat, particularly w hen vehicle access is limited, and are to be considered a continuous survey rather than a point survey. The maximum length of pedestrian survey routes is determined by the project area but limited by survey time frames def ined in the next section.

Survey Periods and Weather Constraints

Survey periods are designed to maximize the likelihood of detecting aplomado falcons based on know n behavior patterns, act ivit y periods, and coincident w ith the proposed project /activity. Although aplomados may inhabit their range year-round, they w ill be most conspicuous from 1 February to 31 August, w hich represents the time period for courtship, nest ing, and the post-f ledging season (Hector 1981; USFWS 1990; Montoya et

al. 1997). Therefore, to maximize the likelihood of detect ing aplomado falcons, surveys are best conducted during this time period. Surveys should normally be conducted prior to init iat ion of each proposed project act ivit y or prior to each phase of an act ion that may affect the aplomado falcon or its habitat. Additionally, suff icient lead t ime is needed for adequate survey coverage and for Service coordinat ion (i.e., t o review the survey results and respond before the ant icipated start of the proposed act ion). Surveys of potent ial habitat w ithin a given project area for aplomado falcons should be conducted at least 3 t imes w ithin a 3-4 w eek period and conclude at least 30 days prior to the anticipated start date of the project . To minimize temporal biases, surveys should not be repeated during the same day but spread out as much as possible by at least 1 w eek intervals. For specif ic projects/actions in w hich the implementation of the above survey interval is constrained, the appropriate Service Field Off ice should be contacted for specif ic recommendations. Keep in mind that survey efforts need be t imed as closely as possible to the start of the project /action. This survey series is intended to maximize the likelihood of detect ion, part icularly outside the nesting season.

Weather and t ime constraint s are necessary to ensure that surveys are conducted w hen detectability is not limited by w ind, precipitation, or temperature. Therefore, surveys in potent ial habitat should be conducted in the mornings f rom sunrise to 4 hours af ter sunrise. Weather information should be recorded on the survey data form at the beginning of the survey and any changes in the w eather should be noted during the course of the survey. Supplemental surveys may be conducted in marginal habitat in the evenings from 4 hours before sunset to sunset; how ever, these may not replace morning surveys in potential habitat. Surveys should only be conducted w hen there is no precipitat ion and sustained w ind speeds are < 16 kph (< 10 mph), determined against a standard such as the Beauf ort Scale.

Survey Data Collection

For project -specif ic surveys, all raptors w ill be recorded. At each point, the biologist w ill (exit the vehicle) scan 360o for at least 10 minutes for f ly ing or perched raptors. Provided that the permitted biologist is present, more than one observer may be used, since coverage and detect ion are the primary object ives.

Documentat ion of nest availability or st ick nests that can be used by aplomado falcons w ill help assess habitat suitability and impact avoidance. Therefore, all raptor and raven nest sites located in the course of the survey should be tallied. View all active nests, part icularly suspected aplomado nests, f rom a distance of 75-100 meters w ith binoculars or a spott ing scope to avoid causing any nest disturbance and possible abandonment. If the adults appear to become agitated at your presence, retreat from the nest area. All raptors and ravens are protected under the provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

See Table 1 for a summary of both survey procedures.

Table 1. Summary of Survey Methodologies

Survey Constraints System-Wide Survey Project-Specific Survey

Observers One observer One or more observers

Survey Period All year, 2/3 of surveys during

1 February - 31 August.

All year; Timed to coincide w ith proposed activ ity.

Survey Times Sunrise to 4 hours after. Sunrise to 4 hours after, supplemental from 4 hours before sunset to sunset .

Survey Frequency Once every 2-4 w eeks f lexible, but suggest a minimum of 4 surveys if betw een 1 Feb- 31 Aug.

Minimum of 3 survey visits over 3-4 w eeks (spaced at 1 per w eek) in potent ial habitat/act ion area concluding w ithin 30 days prior to project start date.

Precipitation None None

Survey Mode Vehicle Vehicle or w alking

Wind Speed (Sustained) < 16 kph (< 10 mph) < 16 kph (< 10 mph)

Survey Route Minimum length of 16 km (10 mi). May be longer.

Coordinate with Service on survey area/routes.

Variable, to ef fect ively cover action area. Coordinate w ith

Service on survey area/routes.

Observation Points Every 0.8 km (0.5 mi) Variable, every 0.5 to 1.2 km

(0.3 to 0.75 mi) if by vehicle, cont inuous if by w alking.

Observation Time 10 minutes per point. Variable, minimum of 10 minutes per point if by vehicle.

Species Recorded All raptors, ravens, shrikes. (all avian species recommended for trend) Vegetat ion/habit at notes recommended.

All raptors and/or ravens.

Nests Recorded Record locat ion, species, and activ ity f or all large nests if possible.

Tally all large stick nests.

End. Species Permit Required. Required.

AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES

Report Preparation

Upon completion of each project-specif ic survey, the act ion agency/surveyor w ill prepare a report on the results of the survey and associated information. If an aplomado falcon is located during surveys, the act ion agency/surveyor should contact the appropriate Service Field Off ice project biologist w ithin 3 w orking days. Survey results submitted to the Service should include: (1) maps of survey route(s), (2) survey data forms, (3) a narrat ive of the results and any observations of interest (i.e., other species of interest, notes on habitat suitability, and nest availability), and (4) photos documenting aplomado falcons and/or habitat. In order to ensure a t imely response to the agency/applicants, survey results are requested in w rit ing as soon as possible (part icularly for project -specif ic act ions). System-w ide survey reports/activit ies may be submitted on an annual basis or unless otherw ise decided upon during agency coordination w ith the Service.

LITERATURE CITED

Bildstein, K.L. 1978. Behavioral ecology of red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), rough-legged haw ks (B. lagopus), nort hern harriers (Circus cyaneus), American kestrels (Falco sparverius), and other raptorial birds w intering in south central Ohio. Ph.D.

Diss., Ohio State Univ., Columbus. 364pp.

Buf f ington, L.C. and C.H. Herbel. 1965. Vegetational changes on a semidesert range from 1858 to 1963. Ecol. Monogr. 35:139-164.

Dick-Peddie, W.A., W.H. Moir, and R. Spellenberg. 1993. New Mexico Vegetation; Past Present and Future. Univ of New Mexico Press. 244pp.

Fuller, M.R. and J.A. Mosher. 1987. Raptor Survey Techniques. Pages 37-65. in B.A.

Giron Pendleton, B.A. Millsap, K.W. Cline, and D.M. Bird, eds. Raptor management techniques manual. Nat l. Wildl. Fed., Washington, D.C.

Hector, D.P. 1981. The habitat, diet, and foraging behavior of the Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis (Temminck). Oklahoma State University, Cooperat ive Wildlife Research Unit , Unpubl. M.S. Thesis. 189pp.

. 1983. Status Report: Falco femoralis septentrionalis (Todd 1916). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Report, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 51pp.

. 1985. The diet of the aplomado falcon (Falco femoralis) in eastern Mexico.

Condor 87:336-342.

. 1986a. Cooperative hunt ing and its relat ionship to foraging success and prey size in an avian predator. Ethology 73:247-257.

______. 1986b. Vegetat ive Cover, Small Bird Abundance and Habitat Patterns of Aplomado Falcon Habitat Quality in Eastern Mexico. in Southw est Raptor Management Symposium and Workshop; National Wildlife Federat ion Scientif ic and Technical Series No. 11; pp 157-164.

. 1987. The decline of the aplomado falcon in the United States. American Birds 41: 381-389.

. 1988. Aplomado Falcon. Pp. 315-322, in R.S. Palmer, ed., Vol 5, Handbook of North American Birds. Yale Univ. Press.

Henry, A.L., and K.E. Cathey. 1995. Habitat assessment for aplomado falcons on White Sands Missile Range (WSMR). U.S. Fish and Wildlif e Service Report , Albuquerque, New Mexico. 32pp.

Humphrey, R.R. 1958. The desert grassland; a history of vegetat ional change and an analysis of causes. Botanical Review 24:193-252.

Jiménez, J.E. 1993. Notes on the diet of the aplomado falcon (Falco femoralis) in Northcent ral Chile. J. Raptor Res. 27(3):161-163.

Kif f , L.F., D.B. Peakall, and D.P. Hector. 1978. Eggshell thinning and organochlorine residues in the bat and aplomado falcons in Mexico. Proc. 17th. Intern. Ornith.

Congr. 17:949-952.

Lasley G.W., and C. Sexton. 1992. in American Birds, Texas Region. 46(3):446-451

Ligon, J.S. 1961. New Mexico birds and w here to f ind them. Univ. New Mexico Press, Albuquerque. 360pp.

Meyer, R.A., C.J. Perez, and S.O. Williams III. Recent Status of the Aplomado Falcon in New Mexico, U.S.A. In review. Submitted to: J. Raptor Res. 2003.

Montoya, A.B., P.J. Zw ank, and Manuel Cardenas. 1997. Breeding biology of aplomado falcons in desert grasslands of Chihuahua, Mexico. J. Field Ornithol. , 68(1):135- 143.

Peregrine Fund. 1992. Annual Report. World Center for Birds of Prey. 21pp.

Perez, C.J., P.J. Zw ank, and D.W. Smith. 1996. Survival, movements, and habitat use of aplomado falcons released in southern Texas. J. Raptor Res. 30 (4):175-182.

Robbins, C.S. 1981a. Effect of t ime of day on bird activity . Pages 275-286. in C.J.

Ralph and J.M. Scott , eds. Estimating numbers of terrestrial birds. Stud. Avian Biol. 6 .

. 1981b. Bird act ivity levels related to w eather. Pages 301-310. in C.J.

Ralph and J.M. Scott , eds. Estimating numbers of terrestrial birds. Stud. Avian Biol. 6 .

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1990. Northern aplomado falcon recovery plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Albuquerque, New Mexico. 56pp.

Verner, J. 1985. Assessment of counting techniques. Curr. Ornithol. 2:247-302.

Ward, L.Z. and M.A. Ingraldi. 1994. Grassland raptor/aplomado falcon survey. Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program Technical Report 27. Arizona Game and Fish Department , Arizona.

Wilkinson, G.S. and K.R. Debbon. 1980.Habitat preferences of w intering diurnal raptors in the Sacramento Valley. West. Birds 11:25-34.

Williams, S. O. III. 1997. Recent occurrences of Aplomado Falcons in New Mexico: Is natural recolonizat ion underway? Abstract. New Mexico Ornith. Soc. Bull. 25:39.

Young, K.E., B.C. Thompson, D.M. Brow ning, Q.H. Hodgson, J.L. Lanser, A. Lafón Terrazas, W.R. Gould, and R. Valdez. 2002. Characterizing and predict ing suitable Aplomado Falcon habitat for conservation planning in the northern Chihuahuan Desert . New Mexico Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit . Las Cruces, New Mexico. 171pp. + appendices.

A-1 Appendix A. List of contacts to report aplomado sightings (contact coordinat ing Service Field Off ice). Also on the Internet at: htt p://southwest.fw s.gov/index.html

ARIZONA

Field Supervisor (State agency) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Arizona Game and Fish Department Arizona Ecological Services Off ice Nongame and Endangered Wildlif e 2321 West Royal Palm Road, Suite 103 2221 West Greenw ay Road Phoenix, Arizona 85021-4957 Phoenix, Arizona 85023-4312

(602) 242-0210 (602) 789-3514

FAX (602) 242-2513 FAX (602) 789-3926

NEW MEXICO

(Lead recovery stat ion) (State agency) Field Supervisor Sandy Williams U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service New Mexico Department of New Mexico Ecological Services Off ice Game and Fish;

2105 Osuna Road NE Endangered Species Division Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113 P.O. Box 25112

(505) 346-2525 Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504

FAX (505) 346-2542 (505) 476-8000

FAX (505) 476-8128

TEXAS

(West Texas) (State agency) Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Field Supervisor Threatened and Endangered Species U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 4200 Smith School Road;

Ecological Services Off ice Aust in, Texas 78744 10711 Burnet Road, Suit 200 (512) 912-7011 Hartland Bank Building (800) 792-1112 Aust in, Texas 78758

(512) 490-0057

FAX (512) 490-0974

(South Texas)

Field Supervisor U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service c/o TAMU-CC Campus Box 338 6300 Ocean Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78412

(361) 994-9005

FAX (361) 994-8262

A-2 Appendix B. Rare bird/aplomado falcon observat ion form.

RARE BIRD/APLOMADO FALCON OBSERVATION FORM

Observer(s):

Sight ing Date: . . (ex. 01.Mar.95)

Phone Number(s) of Primary Contact on this Observation( ) ( )

General Area Description:

Site Location: UTM Coordinates E N Elevation:

Lat/Long Coordinates T R Sec(s)

Quadrangle (Topographic) Map Name

Please include a map of locat ion, preferably f rom a USGS 7.5 minute quad, on the back.

Sight ing Time: First Observed End Observation (24hr t ime)

Weather: Wind Speed (max) Temperature (max) /F /C Cloudcover %

DESCRIPTION

Observat ion Distance Lighting Photographs Y N

Status (i.e. single, pair, adult , subadult , or juvenile)

Back and Upperw ings

Face, Head, and Nape

Breast, Belly, and Underw ings

Tail, Rump, and Undertail Coverts

Flesh Parts (legs and Cere)

Behavior

Notes:

A-3 Appendix C. Field data forms.

APLOMADO FALCON SURVEY DATA FORM

Survey Route Description:

County: USGS Quad Name(s):

Survey Locat ion: UTM Coordinates E N Elevation:

Lat/Long Coordinates T R Sec(s)

Survey Date: . . Survey Time: Start End

Day Month Year

Weather: Wind Speed (max) Temperature (max) Cloudcover %

Primary Observer: Other Observer(s):

Survey mode: Vehicle___ Walk___

Individual Species Observed by Station:

TUVU BLVUg GOEA BAEA MIKI BSKI NOHA SSHA COHA NOGO

BWHA RTHA SWHA RLHA FEHA WTHAg HAHA ZTHA OSPR APFA

CRCAg AMKE MERL PRFA PEFA CORA CHRA AMCR LOSH

* = Large stick nest present. g= unlikely, needs verificat ion

1 11 21

2 12 22

3 13 23

4 14 24

5 15 25

6 16 26

7 17 27

8 18 28

9 19 29

10 20 30

Notes__________________________________________________________________________

Appendix C (cont inued). Key to the abbreviated avian species.

TUVU BLVU GOEA BAEA MIKI BSKI NOHA SSHA COHA NOGO

BWHA RTHA SWHA RLHA FEHA WTHA HAHA ZTHA OSPR APFA

CRCA AMKE MERL PRFA PEFA CORA CHRA AMCR LOSH

TUV U - Turkey Vulture

BLVU - Black V ulture

GOEA - Golden Eagle

BAEA - Bald Eagle

M IKI - M ississippi Kit e

BSKI - Black-shouldered K it e (or w hit e-t ailed k it e)

NOHA - Nort hern Harrier

SSHA - Sharp sh inned Haw k

COHA - Cooper' s Haw k

NOGO - Northern Goshaw k

BW HA - Broad-w inged Haw k

RTHA - Red tailed Haw k

SW HA - Sw ainson' s Haw k

RLHA - Rough legged Haw k

FEHA - Ferrug inous Haw k

W THA - W hit e tailed Haw k

HA HA - Harris' Haw k

ZTHA - Zone t ailed Haw k

OSPR - Osprey

A PFA - A plomado Falcon

CRCA - Crested Caracara

A M KE - American Kest rel

M ERL - M erlin

PRFA - Prairie Falcon

PEFA - Peregrine Falcon

CORA - Com mon Raven

CHRA - Chihuahuan Raven

A M CR - Am erican Crow

LOSH - Loggerhead Shrike

XXX X - Other (ident ify )