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THE

OSPREY Volume 31 , No. 01 March, 2000

Note from the editor LETIERS & CORRESPONDENCE: Tomgat Mountain National Park ... The Main River ..... . Resolutions Passed at the 3Cf' AGM of the Canadian Nature Federation ...

PAPERS & REPORTS: Harlequin Duck Research, Conservation, and Recovery Activities in Eastern North America and Greenland - Peter Thomas ....... . Lords and Ladies of Cape Sl. Mary's · John Cheeseman This School Project is For the Birds: Harlequin Duck Banding Project • John Cheeseman ........................... . Oil PoUution: An lnterview by Wanda McGrath & Chris Young.

POEMS, PROSE, STORIES & SNIPPETS: Seabird Soul Set Free - Janina Carlstad. No Right of Fancy· Janina Carlstad ..

BIRD REPORTS & SIGHTINGS: The Winter Season Bird Report (199912000) in Saint-Pierre el Miquelon

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_ Roger ElCheberry.... ...................... ............................... 45

SOCIETY ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS: -Spring 2000 Indoor Program - Becky Sjarc NN HS Membership Application Form

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NEWFOUNDLAND NATURAL m STORY SOCIETI' QUARTERLY

The Natural History Society

of Newfoundland and Labrador, Inc. PO Box 1013. Sl. John's, Newfoundland A I C 5M3

Publication Mail Registration N8302 ISSN 0710-4847

THE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY OF NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR P.O. Box 1013, St. John's, Newfoundland. A1C 5M3 •

Editorial Policy

Al l members are encouraged to contribute articles and material of general interest to the societies mandate for publication in "The Osprey".

Articles should, where possible, be submitted on 3.5" High-density IBM-formatted floppy disks. Computer users should prepare articles in Word Perteet. Font, margins, and spacing can be adjusted by the editors. If articles are submitted in any other form, they should be entirely print-ready, using one inch margins, single spaced in Times New Roman font and a point size no greater than 12. The editors reserve the right to re-format any materials received. Please note that all material will be reviewed by the editorial staff and only those deemed appropriate will be published.

Illustrations and photos are welcome, and should be provided in a format compatible with photocopying in black and white, since that is the way "The Osprey" is printed.

Please send submissions for the December 2000 issue no later than November 22. Material should be mailed to:

The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, C/o Fyzee Shuhood, The Editor

6A, Thorburn Road St. John's, Newfoundland, A 1 B-3L8

Or articles could also be e-mailed to: brianmclaren@mail.aoy nt.ea

--rhe Osprey" does not print advertising or solicitation without express consent of the executive.

The NNHS Societv Officers 2000-2001

Home Wor1< Past Preskten1: Allan Stein 895-2056 737-8n2 President: Rita Anderson 895-2564 737·Sn1 Vice Preskktnl: (Vacent) Secretary: Don Steele 754-0455 Treasurer: Don Barton 726-0026 Osprey Editor Fyzee Shuhood 738-0144

Co-Edilor: Brian Mclaren 739·9960 CNF Board representatives: John Pratt 579·9518 722-7673

Bm Montevecchi 895-2901 737·7673 Members at large: Len Zedel 745-3321 737-3106

David Snow 368·3451 Becky Siare (indoor events planner) 738-{)523 722-4049 Pierre Ryan 722-5794 Werdy Zdebiak (outdoor events planner)722-8538 carol Joyce 895-3959 737-6309

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A Note from the editor ...... .

I live my life in growing orbits, which move oul over the things of this world. Perhaps J never can achieve the lasl. but that will be my attempt. I am Circling around God, around the ancient lower, and I have been circling for a thousand years. And I still do not know, if I am a/alcon, or a storm, or a great song.

R. M. Rilke

Winter brings various seaducks to our coastal waters. This is the time the endangered eastern harlequin duck migrates south to wintering areas around the south coast of the island along wilh Ihousands of eider ducks, oldsquaw and scoter spp. Many organizations such as the Canadian Wildlife Service. Parks and Natural Areas, Memorial University Biopsychology Departmenl and olhers spend their efforts in understanding the population dynamics of seaducks as well as coping wilh Ihreals to these beautiful marine birds. This issue is dedicated to the marine environment and wintering watertowl and to the people who are dedicated to the study and conservation of the marine ecosystem and its wildlife.

Once again a reminder to keep sending your articles, letters, poems, nature observations, bird sightings and natural history reports for the Osprey. H is your contributions that makes the publishing of The Osprey possible and interesting.

We thank ail ihose sending articles.

Fyzee Shuhood Editor February 2000

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Labrador .Inuit katutjlKatigennlnga Labrador Inuit A-ssoclation

BY FACSIMU.E

10 january 2000 '

Ms. julie Gilland Canadian N atute Federation 1 Nicholas Street, SUite 606 Ottawa. ON .•. KIN 757 .. Fax: 6135623371 '

Mr. Kevin Kavanagh . DirectOr. Endangered Spares Campaign W.orid Wildlife Fund Canada . 245 Eglinton Ave. E., Suite 410 Toronto, ON . M4P 3jl Fax 416 489 3611

Ms. Laura Jackson Executive Director,

P.o . Box 10 · Nain, Labrador

AOP , !-O

Tel: (709) 922-2941/294212993 Fax: (709) 922-2931 .

Protected· Areas Association of Newfoundland' and Labrador P. O. Box 1027 • St. john's, NF AlC 5M5 Fax: 709 726 2764

Dear Ms. Gilland, Mr. Kavanagh and Ms. jackson:

Re' Mea:mrin; P';2gr"$~ on ProPQUd Tompt MQuntain, Nation.,l Park

Thank you fa; your letter of November 19, 1999 offering your congratulations on OUI pr~gress toward establishing the proposed Tomg~t" Mountains National Park

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Julie Gilfahd, -KOVin Kavanagh,' ~aJJta t.Ckson -10 January 2iJOb, Palt;; 2-

The ~nt"Of· LIA's~ritteil ·commitment· toihe e.stablishment ofthe''iorngat · ~ountains Na~o~rp~~ is set Q~! ~ ·.tb~ I.ab~a~or ~uit:·ASre.emenf-iri"'Princip.te initialled by-the chief negotiators fOI LIA, Canada and Ne_wf~undland QIl -1Q May, 1999 and-ratified by the Labr.d"Or"lnuit on 29 July 1999 __ LIA is cOntinuing to work toward completion: of tp.e mt~ri.rr\ mea:sures. re~·pecting_ the, p.ro]?osed 'r9mgij,t MoUntains National Park Reserve-(wiUch are-referred to In section Q_2.2 of ow: AlP) and it ~ UA's.i:rite.n~on ~ make them public once ~y.hay:e beeR c.ompfete,d .

In conclusion,. I ~ you fOI.¥Our:SllP;~ o~ LlA. ~ 6Ux" efforis:fu ' e~tablish 'a . national puk .in the TPmgat: Mountains. and I frust~fw~ can c9unt"on your

· .continuing support i1S we make progresS through-~e v.:arious steps that remalri to be completed in order to-establish the park. - --

llit.gijait; ~ABRADOR INIDT ASSOClA110,,!

· William Barbour President

I II

c.c. Honourable Briah Tobi~, . Premier of Newf<?undland and-Labrador_

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• I N ICHO L AS 5 TR((T . SU'TI[ &Oe

OTTA .... A. ONT"R IO. C A NAOA KIN 7B7

Date: January 26, 2000

From" Kevin McNamee

To: Laura Jackson Kevin Kavanagh Bill Montevecchi John Pratt Susan Gibson Allan Stein T .arry Innes

Cc: Bruce Amos Tim Sookocheff Ian MacNeil

...A... CNF+FCN W W W .C .. F .C A E · .. ", .. , C ... ecN " .C A

PHO .... : e I3·~e2·3447 F .. ~ . 451 3·5152·3371

MEMORANDUM

e Re: Letters on Proposed Labrador National Parks

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Attached are two letters from the Honourable Charles Furey of the Newfoundland government regarding the proposed T omgat Mountains and Mealy Mountains national parks, as well as correspondence to and from the Labrador Inuit Association.

The letter of 16 April 1999 is somewhat significant in that it provides in writing to us the government's commitment to the following actions: (1) "no further mineral claims staking is allowed in the [proposed Torngat Mountains National Park]" and (2) "further applications for Crown land wili be prohibited." We may want to consider this statement in our deliberations of how to sum up progress come Canada Day 2000 if there is no further progress on the park.

The letter of 9 December 1999 is interesting in that the minister makes reference to "factors outside the control of my Department, which impact upon the final negotiation for a feasibility study." This raises several questions: (1) what negotiations are currently going on between Departments; (2) what are the subject of those negotiations; and (3) how will those negotiations affect the boundaries of a national park study area, the application and timing of any interim-protection measures, and terms of reference for the feasibility study.

Best of the New Year to you .

ca nadian natu re federation" federa tion canadienne de la Il.ature Canada's nationa l voice for the protection of nature, its divers i ty, and the proces ses tl,at s u stain it .

TI lE NEWFOUNDI.AND NAnlRAL IIISTORY SOCIETY

r. O. BIl. J013

ST. JOliN'S, NEWFuUNOLAND Ale 5 M 3

Honourable Oliver Langdon Department of Environment and Labour 4111 Floor, West Block Confederation Building, P.O. Box 8700 St. John's, NF AlB 4J6

The Honourable Oliver Langdon:

Re: The Main River

March 20, 2000

The goal of the Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador is to increase the awareness and appreciation of the animal, plant and mineral resources of the province. Membership in the society is open to all who are interested in natural history. We hold monthly meetings. conduct field trips, publish a quarterly journal, and recognize individual efforts to contribute to the well-being of the natural history of our province by awarding the Tuck-Walter Award and the Wild Things Scholarship.

The Natural History Society is thus concerned with proposals to log the Main River area The Main River area is much more than old trees awaiting harvest. as illustrated by the following:

(a) The Main River area has changed very little since the end of the last ice age and hence, represents a very old boreal forest ecosystem; some of the trees in the forest are up to 250 years old. Commercial harvesting will eliminate the potential to study this rare and scientifically-interesting ecosystem.

(b) The Main River forest system serves as a corridor for the movement of animals between the eastern side of the Nonhern Peninsula and the remainder of the island. It is home to one population of Newfoundland Pine Marten and a parHime horne to a small group of woodland caribou. Habitat loss due to commercial harvesting may put one endangered species at greater risk and limit the utilization of the area by other species.

(c) The Main River itself has been designated as a Canadian Heritage River that is valuable as a wild river. Commercial harvesting will damage its potential for adventure tourism and the long-term economic benefits associated with such activities.

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We also want to point out that the future of the Main River is of interest 10 all Newfou ndlanders who value and use the natu ral environment, not just those who reside or work. nearby. Corner Brook Pulp and Paper should be required to hold infonnation sessions on its Environmental Preview Report throughout the province. not just in Comer Brook and White Bay. At bare minimum, they should be required to hold at least one sess ion in 51. John's, given the size of its population.

On a more general note, we encourage you to make land-use decisions based on coherent regional plans (such as envisioned in the Natural Areas Systems Plan developed several years ago). Responding to requests on a piece-meal basis is troublesome at best, and potentially disastrous, at worst. Moreover, it is vital to err on the side of caution; over-cutting is not precautionary and will lead to problems .... remember the cod.

cc:

Sincerely.

Rita E. Anderson President (709) 737-877 1 rita@play.psych.mun.ca

The Honourable Brian Tobin, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

6 Til E NEWfOUNDI.AND NATURAL IIISTORY SOCIETY

r. O . 80. 1013

ST. JOliN'S, NEWf...:>UNOLANO Ale 5 M3

Hon. Oliver Langdon Department of Environment and Labour 4'" Floor, West Block Confederation Building. P.O. Box 8700 St. John's, NF AlB 4J6

Re: The Main River EPR

April 29, 2000

The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador is dedicated to incrtasHig the awareness and appreciation of the animal, plant and mineral resources of the province. Membership in the society is open to all who are interested in naruraJ history. We hold monthly meetings, conduct field trips. publish a quarterly journal, and recognize individual efforts to contribute to the well-being of the natural history of our province by awarding the Tuck-Walters Award and the Wild Things Scholarship.

The Natural History Society is thus concerned with the current amendment to the Forest Management Plan for District 16 by Comer Brook Pulp and Paper (CBPP). The Main River

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area is much more than old (over-mature) trees awaiting harvest as suggested by the CBPP in the • Environmental Preview Report (EPR). Figure 2.3 reveals that up to 50% of the proposed cut in the Main River area consists of a very old boreal forest ecosystem (120+ years by their classification); thei r maps fai l to indicate old-growth (> 150 years old) forest, but we know that many trees have been estimated to be over 250 years old. Commercial harvesting will eliminate the potential to enjoy or study this rare and scientifically-interesting ecosystem and will certainly destroy the habitat of late-succession species.

By now, you will have received numerous reviews from independent scientists and professionals documenting the many deficiencies of the EPR with respect to the estimated negative impacts of the proposed harvest and antiquated forest management plans on aquatic (e.g., salmonids) and terrestrial (e.g., endangered Pine Marten) wildlife, birds (e.g. , late-succession species such as black.-backed wCKXipeckers, ovenbirds), plantlife (e.g .. the forest is more than trees), wilderness value (e.g .• Heritage River status, ecotourism), and Gros Morne National Park. We concur with the conclusion of the many reviews we have read . On the basis of this evidence alone we respectfully request that you require CBpp to submit a complete Envjronmentallmact Statement CEIS) for this amendment Better yet the province would be wise to injtiate activitjes to declare the entire Main River Watershed as a Protected Area.

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This is the third amendment filed by CBPP for the current five-year plan and is based on economic needs stemming from labour disputes last year. Afler reviewing the various alternatives, CBPP suggests that the "over-mature" trees in the Main River area are the most accessible and economically viable source of fibre. They stress that they are not requesting an increase in harvest. only a change in location. In fact , it is the change in location that concerns us. Imagine two identical plane crashes: one on Duckworth Street in St. John' s and the other in the barrens. Although the spatial extent of the devastation would be the same in both crashes. society would view the Duckworth crash as significantly more costly. So too with the forest. Some forest structures are vinually irreplaceable, while others can be harvested and re-harvested given appropriate forestry practices.

We cannot afford to destroy the Old-growth forest and the wilderness vaJue of the Main River area. The economic value of ecolourism within an intact Main River area over the long haul will more than compensate for postulated shorHerm " loss" of forestry-related employment. In fact , this is not ajobs vs trees issue. CBPP acknowledges in the EPR that there are aJternative cut areas. many of which appear to be more appropriate for harvesting. The Main River area appears to be cost-effective to CCBP only because they do not include the cost of losing an irreplaceable ecosystem in their calculations. The fact that CBPP predicts no irreversible impact associated with the logging operations and only a minor residual impact on this very special forest structure (p. 89) is indicative of their lack of appreciation of the realities of this special o ld-growth ecosystem!

We continue to be frustrated by the obvious lack of true long-tenn planning at all levels of industry and government with respect to the wise and sustainable use of our natural resources in the province. Each year, several amendments to long-tenn forest management plans are registered with the Environmental Assessment Division. Why are there so many amendments'! The Natural Areas Systems Plan was to be re leased for public review in 1995. Where is it '! The Main River was nominated as a Heritage River in 1991 . Why has the province not yel proclaimed it as a Heritage Rive r'! We cannot continue to treat each amendment/project as an independent entity. Responding to requests on a piece-meal basis is troublesome at best, and potentially disastrous, at worst. Land-use decisions must be based on coherent province-wide plans.

Ifj;J~~ Rita E. Anderson President (709) 737-877 J rita@play.psych.mun.ca

cc: Brian Tobin . Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Tom Osborne, PC Environment Critic Jack Harris. NDP

RESOLUTIONS PASSED

AT THE 30TH

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

OF THE CANADIAN NATURE FEDERATION

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RESOLUTION 2000-1

Little Grand Lake (Newfoundland) Ecological Reserve

WHEREAS the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced on October 15, 1999 liIe creation of a 742 square kilometre provisional ecological reserve in the Little Grand Lake area as part of a larger 1,490 square kilometre protected area;

WHEREAS it is estimated that the provisional ecological reserve contains habitat sufficient to support 50-60 pine marten , which is listed as a nationally endangered species by the Committee on Ihe Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC);

WHEREAS the Canadian Nature Federation resolved at its annual general meeting in 1999 to call on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to immediately establish an ecological reserve and surrounding wildlife reserve in the Little Grand Lake area;

WHEREAS the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council (WERAC) in concert with Parks and Natural Areas Division of the Department of Tourism. Culture and Recreation is to develop a management plan for the ecological reserve; and

WHEREAS once these tasks are completed, a recommendation will be made to Cabinet on the advisability of setting aside the area as a permanent ecological reserve;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation congratulates the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador on its actions to create a provisional ecological reserve to protect an endangered species and to conserve an important natural area;

BE IT FURTHER RESOL YED that the Canadian Nature Federation calls on the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council and the Parks and Natural Areas Division to develop and complete a management plan that will ensure the protection of this natural area;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation calls on the provincial Cabinet to set aside the Little Grand Lake area as a permanent ecological reserve under the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Act.

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RESOLUTION 2000-2

Preserving the Main River Watershed

WHEREAS Newfoundland's Main River watershed consists of a unique, 7000 year old boreal forest ecosystem that has changed very little since the end of the last ice age with many of its old-growth ba1sam frr trees more than 250 years old;

WHEREAS !.he Main River, nominated as a Canadian Heril,age River in 1991 for its exceptional wilderness, ecological and recreational characteristics, is one of the few remaining large, wild. and beautiful Newfoundland rivers that has not been severely disturbed by human activity ;

WHEREAS this watershed provides habitat for the nationally endangered Newfoundland Marten, woodland caribou, late succession birds (e.g. , black-backed woodpeckers, crossbills. etc), and fonns the last remaining undisturbed corridor for animal movements between the eastern side of the Northern Peninsula and the rest of lhe island;

WHEREAS this area is the last intact forested ecosystem contiguous to Gros Morne National Park. making its protection crucial to the ecological integrity of this World Heritage Site and to the movement of wildlife in and out of the park;

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WHEREAS Comer Brook PuJp and Paper has began to use mechanical harvesters to cleareut e portions of the watershed. and has applied for provincial approval of their 5-year harvesting plan which would allow it to cut even more areas in the watershed;

WHEREAS the watershed will be highly fragmented if the company's plans are approved. making Gros Morne an ecological island and jeopardizing the features that merit designating the area as a Canadian Heritage River and the World Heritage Site;

lHEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation call on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to immediately prohibit all harvesting activity in the Main River watershed;

BE IT FURTHER RESOL YED that the CNF call on the federal and provincial governments to work together to devise a solution that will protect the outstanding natural values of the Main River and Gros Morne National Park, and provide for other uses that generate economic benefit for local residents and Corner Brook Pulp and Paper;

BE IT FURTIffiR RESOL YEO that the CNF ask the provincial government to undertake a study to contrast the long-tenn economic and intrinsic values of wood harvesting within the Main River watershed with the long-tenn economic and intrinsic values of preserving lhe Main River watershed from logging.

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RESOLUTION 2000-3

Land Use Planning in Newfoundland and Labrador

WHEREAS we are continually confronted by environmental and natural resource problems on local. provincial. national and intemationallevels;

WHEREAS the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador is endowed with a bounty of environmental and natural resource wealth;

WHEREAS the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has not yet formulated a comprehensive land use plan for the province that takes into account both land use and land preservation;

WHEREAS the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has nOl acted on the Natural Areas Systems plan brought before it in 1995 that was designed to protect representative portions of the different ceo-regions of the province;

WHEREAS amendments to the five-year Operating Plans for the various Forestry Management districts in Newfoundland and Labrador are routinely and frequently registered with the Deparunent of Environment & Labour by logging operators without any restrictive registration, and such amendments frequently request changes to the five-year plans that exceed the areas originally proposed for harvesting and silviculture activities;

WHEREAS these amendments generate a sense of crisis management rather than ecologically sound long-term planning for wise land use and conservation; and

WHEREAS riparian areas and other sensitive wildlife use areas are protected in an ad hoc fashion through intermittent reviews of annual operating plans;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation call upon the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to develop a coherent land use policy that allows it lO: (a) complete and act on a comprehensive land use plan which identifies natural areas and rivers to be preserved; and (b) develop and fmaIize forest management and other land use operating plans that only require amendment in rare cases.

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RESOLUTION 2000-4

Independent Observers on Offshore Oil prilling Rigs and Platforms

WHEREAS oil induslrY representatives speculate that Eastern Canada can expect continued and expanded development of offshore hydrocarbon deposits;

WHEREAS offshore oil drilling rigs and production platforms handle large volumes of oil under harsh and adverse conditions where the safety of the environment can only be assured through the stringent adherence to regulations and thoroughly clean operational practices;

WHEREAS the environmental impact of these developments is largely affected by both operational and, to a lesser extent. accidental discharges of oil ;

WHEREAS all offshore activity attracts certain marine and bird life either through the concentration of food. or through instinctual attraction to light sources where the close proximity to an industrial installation puts these animals at risk: through behaviour modification, collision with structures, flare contact, and through direct contact with poUutants;

WHEREAS offshore oil industry activity in Eastern Canada takes place as far as 300 Ian offshore. well beyond public scrutiny; and

WHEREAS. at present. there is no means of continuous. independent monitoring of offshore induslIy activities or adherence to stated operating policies;

lHEREFORE BE IT RESOL YED that the Canadian N atwe Federation call upon the East Coast Petroleum Boards (CNOPB, CNSOPB) to require trained, dedicated and independent observers to be on oil production plauonns for the purpose of mOnitoring activities. undertaking random sampling of discharge materials, and providing a scientifically quantifiable record of bird and marine life and apparent impact upon them in the vicinity of the facilities.

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RESOLUTION 2000-S

Reinvesting in Conservation

WHEREAS both federal and provincial governments have made significant spending cuts in programs and initiatives related to protecting nature and the environment since the early 1990s;

WHEREAS many governments are now in the position of producing operating surpluses; and

WHEREAS a healthy environment is the foundation for ensuring a hca1thy population of humans and other species; and

WHEREAS many fiscal policies of the federa1 and provincial government create and encourage environmentally negative behaviour on the part of individua1s, corporations and government deparuncnts;

WHEREAS both the US Department of Labour and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development have produced studies that show that environmental protection policies enhance employment.;

WHEREAS many European and Scandinavian countries are shifting their tax structure away from income and payroU taxes towards consumption and environmental taxes; and

WHEREAS the federal government has taken steps 10 reduce the capital gains tax on the donation of privately owned ecological sensitive land, resulting in an increase in the donation of such lands to conservation programs, indicating that such initiatives can help conserve biodiversity;

lllEREFORE BE IT RESOL YEO that the Canadian Nature Federation calls upon the federal and provincial governments to make a staged, multi-year Slrategic reinvesbDcnL in protecting Canada's environment by restoring capacity in critical areas; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOL YEO that the Canadian Nature Federation calls upon the federal and provincial governments to introduce a systematic, multi-year strategy for budget refonn to:

• remove environmentally-perverse subsidies • put costs on the use of clean air, clean water and land by developing eco-taxes • use economic instruments to achieve environmental protection

shift taxes from economically inefficient payroU and income taxes towards consumption and environmental taxes; and

BE IT FURlllER RESOL YEO that the Canadian Nature Federation congratulates the federal government on its recent initiatives to accelerate the conservation of private lands. and urges it to fw1her reduce and eliminate all capital gains tax on the donation of privately held ecologically sensitive lands.

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RESOLUTION ~

Legislation to Protect Species at Risk

WHEREAS the federal, provincial and territorial governments agreed in principle to the National Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada on October 2, 1996;

WHEREAS the Accord commits govemmcnls to establishing complementary legislation and programs that will provide for the effective protection of species at risk throughout Canada, and by providing for:

• an independent process for assessing the status of species at risk.

• immediate legal protection for endangered and threatened species,

• protection for the habitat of endangered or threatened species. and

• me development of recovery plans for endangered and threatened species. and

that will meet the requirements of the other ten elements of the Accord; and.

WHEREAS the federal Species at Risk Act (Bill C-33) fails to provide a listing process independent of political discretion, fails to protect threatened and endangered species across Canada, and fails to provide automatic protection of habitat for endangered and threatened species;

lHEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation urges the federal government to amend the Species at Risk Act in a manner that will fulfill all of the requirements of the National Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk; and

BE IT FURTIlER RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation urge provincial and territorial jurisdictions to develop their own legislation that meets the requirements of the National Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk.

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RESOLUTION 2000-7

National Park Pronosal on Northern Bathurst Island

WHEREAS the federal government is in the process of completing a feasibility study for a national park on Northern Bathurst Island;

WHEREAS the study site provides excellent representation of Parks Canada's Western High Arctic Natural Region (#38) while encompassing the critical calving grounds and other seasonally important habitat for Bailiurst Island's population of nationally endangered Peary caribou;

WHEREAS the Geological Survey of Canada' s 1998 Mineral and Energy Resource Assessment of the study area indicated that there is potential for mineral and oi l deposits in the study area, and that this potential is most specifically under the caribou calving grounds;

WHEREAS several experts retained by the Canadian Nature Federation have concluded that there are no known economic mineral or energy deposits in the study area, and that target areas for minera1 exploration are better found outside the national park study area; and

WHEREAS the Peary caribou population in the High Arctic is grcatly reduced and severely stressed due to severa1 years of unusually harsh weather conditions , and the effect of further disturbance due to mineral exploration and development activity, although unknown, could jeopardize the recovery of the herd;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation urges the federal government to work with the Government of Nunavut and the Hamlet of Resolute Bay to quickly conclude negotiations for a national park on Northern Bathursllsland; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the federal government should negotiate for a national park on Northern Bathurst Island with the best possible boundary that will: (I) ensure a viable, self­sustaining ecosystem, including all important Peary caribou habitat; (2) achieve the best representation of the natural region's various natural characteristics; and (3) maintain the ecological integrity of a future national park.

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RESOLUTION 2000-11

Expanding and Protecting Canada's National Parks System

WHEREAS the Liberal government has repeatedly promised to complete Canada's national terrestrial park system and to maintain the ecological integrity of the existing 39 national parks;

WHEREAS the same government has slashed Parks Canada' s budget by S98 million over the last five years, reducing its budget by almos125 percent. while charging Canadians more to use their national parks and national historic sites through increased user fees;

WHEREAS there are still 14 gaps in the national park system, and virtually every national park is reporting significant and increasing ecological stress on their natural resources and systems from human activities both inside and outside park boundaries;

WHEREAS Parks Canada has had to pay for its last 4 new parks from its existing budget, is negotiating with local communities for new national parks without any stable source of funding. and can no longer afford to pay for any new national parks from its current budget;

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WHEREAS in March 2000 a federal Panel on the Ecological Integrity of Canada's National Parks concluded that the threats to Canada's national parks constitutes an issue of national importance and that action must be taken immediately to save them from destruction ; e WHEREAS since the release of this report, developments outside parks such as the Bruce Peninsula. Oms Morne, and Pacific Rim continue to threaten their ecological integrity as other governments continue to ignore the ecological needs of parks and surrounding landscapes;

WHEREAS the Panel indicated that S328 million is required over the next 5 years to assist Parks Canada and other landowners in addressing internal and external threats to nationaJ parks so as to restore and maintain the ecological integrity of both the parks and surrounding landscapes; and

WHEREAS a series of amendments to the National Parks Act that act on recommendations of the EcologicaJ Integrity Panel are now before the Senate of Canada;

lliEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation call on the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister and the federal Cabinet to allocate new monies in the next federal budget for the negotiation, establishment and protection of national parks, and to implement the recommendations of !he Ecologicallntegrity Panel ; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the CNF call on the federal, provincial and tenitorial governments to investigate means to ensure that land use decisions outside national parks do not impair national park ecosystems and regional wildlife populations that migrate through the park:;

BE IT AJRlHER RESOL YEO that the CNF call on the Senate of Canada to pass the new National Parks Act to ensure the maintenance and restoration of ecologicaJ integrity in all palks.

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RESOLUTION 2000-9

megal bUge water dumning oj! pollution and seabird mortality in Canadian Waters

WHEREAS there is significant chronic seabird mortality from illegal bilge water dumping during the winter in Newfoundland waters alone, which has been estimated to kill up to JOO.(X)() marine birds annually;

WHEREAS many vessels pass by the Newfoundland coast and the vessel traffic is predicted to

increase in the future;

WHEREAS the waters off the Newfoundland coast provide important wintering habiLat for tens of millions of seabirds;

WHEREAS the number of seabirds killed by oil has increased in recent decades, and oiled seabirds have a 7..ero survival rate;

WHEREAS existing enforcement and action to dale by Transpon Canada and Environment Canada to stop illegal bilging and killing of marine birds has not solved this problem; and

WHEREAS these illegal diseharges pollute the marine environmenl, cause significant seabird mortality in Newfoundland and Labrador, and pose a significant threat to other marine resources, including the fishery, traditional winter seabird hunting. ecotourism, and the economy;

1lIEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Canadian Nature Federation calion Transport Canada to strengthen the Canada Shipping ActlO prevent marine oil pollution, implement a zera-tolerance for marine oil discharge, and take effective preventative measures to SlOp bilge nushing; and

BE IT FURTIiER RESOLVED that the CNF callan the federal government to ensure that all ships in Canadian waters be required to be equipped with transponders so that they can be tracked by the Canadian Coast Guard, that marine surveillance for detecting spills be increased by the use of modem technology, that a substantial minimum fme in addition to the maximum fines already in place be implemented for deliberate oil pollution, that mechanisms for educating Shipping companies be developed and implemented, iliat double hull tankers be made mandatory, and that funding for long~tenn seabird and shoreline monitoring in sensitive areas such as major seabird colonies be increased.

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1999 Annual Report Harlequin Duck Research, Conservation, and Recovery Activities in Eastern North America and Greenland - By Peler Thomas

Several major projects were undertaken in 1999 to investigate breeding, moulting. and wintering Harlequin Ducks in eastern North America. Winter surveys were conducted in New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Maioe, and regular Christmas Bird Counts were conducted throughout the region. Surveys for new moulting areas continued in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as Qu~bec. The only breeding Harlequin Duck study was conducted in Labrador where 54 individuals were successfully banded. Additional banding and tissue sampling were conducted on moulting sites in Labrador. and along the wcstern coas1 of Greenland. Wintering Harlequin Ducks continue to be captured along the coast of Maine, and there are plans to attempt a winter capture in eastern North America.

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The complele 1998-99 Christmas Bird Count (eBC) data has yet to be compiled, bence data are not available to determine current trends. An updated distribution and population status generated by Goudie el al. (1999) summarizes CBe data from 196()..61 to 1996-97. Goudie et a1. (1999) indicated declines in the population wintering in eastern Canada up unLilI991 or 1992. Since 1992 the overall pattern has been an increase in most known e wintering areas along eastern Canada. However, this statement shoukl be qualified by the fact that the majority of the CBC effort that this trend analysis is based upon are from a few specific sites. 1be number of Harlequin ducks observed in CBCs in the eastern United States has been increasing since the early 1970s, however, part of the increase is due 10

the addition of new CBC sites.

NewfQundland & Labrador

A breeding Harlequin Duck survey was conducted by Scott Gilliland and Bruce Turner along the Torrent River, Newfoundland (5<r 37' N; 56° 50' W) on II May, 1999. A total of 21 individuals were discovered, consisting of nine pairs. two lone males, and one lone female. One pair was captured and banded during the same survey.

Surveys were conducted to search for additional moulting areas along the coast by Scott Gilliland and Pierre Ryan ofCWS - Sl. John's. This survey extended from the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland to Nain, Labrador. Two substantial new moult sites were discovered. The frrst at the northern end of the Grey Islands (see Figure 1); 144 Harlequin Ducks were observed moulting in this area. The moulting site is located outside the boundaries of the Migratory Bird Sanctuaries at Sbepherd Island (5<r 44' N; 55° 39' 55" W) and lie aux Canes (Green Island) (5<r 41 ' N; 55° 37' W) located within that cluster of • islands. During the same aerial survey Gilliland and Ryan discovered another new mouh

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site of approximately 30 individuals at St. Pe ter's Bay in southern Labrador (sec Figure I). These surveys were conducted on 16 August as part of a larger surveying effort .

An aerial survey was conducted at the Slag Islands (54Q OS' 00" N; 57' 12' 00" W) and lhe Tumbledown Dick Islands (54" 09' 10" N; 57" 08' 56" W) by Gilliland and Ryan on August 16 and found no Harlequins present. Boal and ground surveys were conducted on 12 August, 1999 at the North Stag Islands by Greg Robertson, Peter Thomas. Johanne Dussureault, and Brian Veitch. Forty three Harlequin Ducks were observed: 35 males and 8 females. Two yeUow leg bands and onc whiLe leg band were observed. No numbers could be recorded.

Boat and ground surveys were conducted at the Gannctlsland cluster (530 56' 00" N; 56° 32' 00" W) by Greg Robertson, Johanne Dussureault, and Mark Button. The maximum count for the cluster was 166 Harlequin Ducks. There were 16 band resighLings as listed in Table l.

A trapping effort was also conducted at the Gannet Island cluster, and the North Stag Islands by Greg Robertson, Peter Thomas, Johanne Dussureault, Mark Bullon, and Brian Veitch. Trapping conditions were difficult, but 33 birds were captured, banded and tissue sampled. One previously banded bird was recaptured at Lhe North Stag Island. The location, age and sex of captured birds are as follows:

Gannet Islands: 8 ASY males; 4 SY males; and I SY female (ASY = afler second year; SY = second year)

North Slag Island: 16 ASY males; 3 SY males ; and I ASY female

&=: I ASY male: colour band: yellow - black Iellers: YO; CWS band: 705-71113 This individual was banded by Ian Goudie on its breeding grounds along the Torrent River, Newfoundland on May 22. 1998.

Ian Goudie, in conjunction with the Institute of Environmental Monitoring and Research (IEMR) conducted the first year ofa multi-year study on the Fig River, Labrador (530 12" 00" N; 63" II' 45" W) lO assess the impacts of low-level flying military ain:rafl on the activities and reproduction of Har~uins in this region. Goudie & Jones produced a report on their activities entitled: The Effects of Disturbance on Behaviour and Condition of Harlequin Ducks Breeding on the Fig River, Labrador (bup://www..mun.ca/acwem/figriver.pdf).

Goudie & Jones reported that Harlequin Ducks did respond to aircraft overflights. The strongest reactions were elicited from helicopters (mean reaction Lime = 95 sec.; N = 2), then Transalls (mean reaction time = 60 sec.; N = 2), and followed finally by low-level flying jets (mean reaction time = 8 sec.; N = 2). However, the statement is qualiflCd by the fact that sample sizes were too small to support statistical testing. Goudie captured and banded 38 individuals: 8 adull males, 13 adull females , and 17 juveniles. Blood and e feaLher samples were also collected from some individuals.

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As pan of an ongoing monitoring program for the Department of NationaJ Defense, Jacques-Whitford Environment - Labrador (JWEL) continued their survey effort of e breeding areas in Labrador, and their data is available in a binder rannat. Additionally, JWEL initialed a radio-telemetry study to assess whether individuals discovered on rivers early in the breeding season via aerial surveys, stayed on the rivers where they were first discovered. JWEL placed radio-transmitters on II female Harlequin Ducks. but all dropped before the completion of the study. However, with the preliminary data that was collected, all but one were found to slay on the river.

TIle combined work of Ian Goudie and JWEL succeeded in capturing and banding 54 individuals between 18 May and 26 August, 1999: 21 ATY females; 15 ATY males; 2 '2b' juvenile females; 3 '2c' juvenile females; 10 '2b' juvenile males; and 1 '2c' juvenile male. Blood and feather samples were collected from 28 adults in the region.

Winter surveys (Nov - Apr, 1998-99) were conducted at Cape Sl. Mary' s. Newfoundland (46° 49' OS" N; 54° 09' 14" W). The maximum count for surveys conducted byCWS employees was 75 on 16 January, 1999. However, CBC data indicated a maximum count of 97 individuals at Cape Sl. Mary's for 2 January, 1999. The maximum number recorded by Tony Power during h.is regular sea duck survey in that area was 78 on March 10, 1999. Harlequin Ducks were not recorded on any o ther CBC count in the province.

Fall and winter surveys will be conducted again this year (1999-2000) at Cape SI. Mary's. Surveys to date have been conducted on 13 July, 10 September, J October, and 13 • October, and discovered 6, 10, 19, and 22 individuals, respectively. On November 28, 1999, Bill Montevecchi, Tony Power, Fyzee Shuhood, Dave Fifiekl, and a Biopsychology class from Memorial University counted 117 Harlequins during a simultaneous count using observers spread out along cliffs and in contact by radio in Goklen Bay, Newfoundland. This is the highest count since 1980.

FInally. Joel Heath, a Master's of Science student at Memorial University of Newfoundland is pursuing his Master's work on Harlequin Ducks in Newfoundland and Labrador. TIle focus ofms research is to develop a habitat suitability model for breeding birds in northern Labrador and for wintering birds in Newfoundland.

Several projects were carried out within the Qu~bec region and elsewhere. Michel Robert worked with JWEL 10 assist in the capture and banding of21 Harlequin Ducks between May 16 and 23, 1999. Micbel Roben also teamed up with Louise Cloutier of tbe Universit~ de Montreal to conduct a food habits study of Harlequin Ducks. Feces samples for harlequins feeding in freshwater and marine environments have been coUected over the last three summers and analysis is near completion.

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A collaborative survey effort was conducted between CWS - Qu6bec and Hydro Qu~bec between 17 May - 25 May. 1999 to survey rivers of the Gaspe Peninsula, Anticosti Island, and the QUI!bec north shore. There were 10 rivers surveyed on the Gas¢ and 18 harlequins were observed; no Harlequins were found along four rivers on Anticosti Island or along lhe 12 rivers Down along the Quebec north shore.

Another study is ongoing in collaboration with Hydro Quebec to assess sex, age, and moult status of Harlequin Ducks at Bonaventure Island, Forillon National Park, and Port­Daniel. Additionally. time activity budget data were collected to compare to similar data coUected in Newfoundland.

A cooperative project was conducted this year in Greenland Lhal included representatives from Canada (CWS - Atlantic and Quebec Regions), Greenland, and Denmark. The goal was to conduct aerial surveys for Harlequin Ducks along the western Greenland coast, followed by a boat survey, as well as a trappingfbanding effon.

Aerial surveys were conducted on July 21 , 24, 30, and 31, by the Danish biologists David Boertmann and Anders Mosbech. They estimated - 2500 Harlequins along the western coast of Greenland. A subsequent boat survey by CWS representatives Greg Robertson and Fran~ois Shaffer counted approximately 865 Harlequin Ducks around approximately 80 islandslskerries in five distinct regions near Ravne~r (see Appendix I). Only 432 individuals were observed in !.his same area during aerial surveys. Surveyors agreed that the accuracy of the boat count was high (1ess than ± 10% for each flock), and as a result an approximate 2: I correction factor can be applied to the aerial survey data. A re­evaluation of that correction factor will be completed in 20(X1

The trapping effon resulted in the capture of 52 individuals: 44 ASY males, 5 SY males, 2 ASY females and I SY female. A final ASY male was a recaptured bird with the band: yeUow-black letters: 3Y; CWS band: 705·71315. This individual was banded by Ian Goudie on the Fig River, Labrador on June 9, 1999.

New Brunswick

Data from 1997-98 indicated 25 individuals observed al the Wolves Archipelago in New Brunswick. however the Christmas Bird Counts for the remainder of the province only discovered 5 additional individuals.

A survey conducted on the Wolves Archipelago on 16 February, 1999 reported 42 Harlequin Ducks: 14 adult males, 21 adult females, and 7 immature males. This value is up considerably from the previous year.

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During the summer of 1999 there were several reports of Harlequin Ducks on rivers in northern New Brunswick: AJ Madden of the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources and Energy reponed one female and five young in July on the west branch of the Lillle Cascumpedia River. He also reported three mature and six young Harlequins on the South Charlo River. One female was reponed on the Benjamin River in mid-July_

Additionally, representatives of the Canadian Wikllife Service assessed the South Charlo River, Benjamin River, Nepisiquit River, and Jacquet River for habitat suitability for Harlequin Ducks, and discussed the feasibility of a future trapping effort.

Since 1996 Nova Scotia has been excluded from the Harlequin Duck winter monitoring program. Surveys were conducted in the region by Barrow and Hicklin in the 1980's and Milton in the mid-90's, and it was suggested that Nova Scotia did not have a signiflCanl wintering population. However, results of recent fixed-winged surveys by Barrow and Hicklin during the winter of 1999. identified several areas with Significant numbers of Harlequins (see Table 2 and Figure 2). They have made consistent counts at these sites from late January to mid-March which suggests Nova Scotia may have a signiflcant winter population. Given !.he magnitude of the counts, and low visibility rates from rued-wing aircraft, Nova Scotia may have from 150 to 500 birds (a 2: 1 correction ratio was estimated by Miuelliauser in Maine (pus. comm.) and Gilliland and Robertson in e Greenland (pers. comm.) for counts made from fixed-wing aircraft). If so, it may increase the eastern North American winter population estimate by + 30%. 1bere is a need for groundlboat surveys of some of the key sites to determine use of these areas by Harlequin Ducks and their inclusion on monitoring programs and population estimates.

In addition to the surveys indicated in Table 2, there were opportunistic observations of Harlequin Ducks at two other locations:

1. Observers Andrew MacFarlane and Lany MacDonnell on 12 January: Little Port Hebert Harbour: 45 individuals

2. Observers Andrew MacFarlane and Jason Hudson on 17 February: Trout Cove (near Centreville): 40 individuals

MlIim Glen Mittelliauser continues to analyze capture-roark-recapture data for the coast of Maine. Regular winter surveys are also being conducted within Jericho Bay by Glen Mittelliauser and John Drury. The highest concentration of wintering Harlequin Ducks in eastern North America are known to be aJong the coast of Maine, USA. in the Isle au Haut area from Swans Island to Vinalhaven. A maximum count of 958 birds was counted during a boat-survey on March 31, 1999. Continued winter banding, tissue sampling, and surveys are planned for the winter of 20Cl0. e

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Remainder of eastern PSA Seaboard

No specific projects were undertaken along the remainder of Harlequin Duck wintering areas south of Mainc. The 1997-98 CBC data were compiled for Harlequins along the coast. All counLS increased in Harlequin numbers with the exception of New York and New Jersey which experienced marginal declines of already minimal numbers. The 1999 data has yet to be completely compiled and published.

UPdated Distribution and Population

An updated assessment of the Harlequin Duck population and distribution in eastern North America has been drafted by Goudie el 01 (1999). It assesses the wintering population numbers along the eastern North American seaboard from 1960-61 to 1996-97. This report indicated a decline in wintering Harlequin Ducks in eastern Canada until 1991 or 1992. However, since that lime, CSC numbers have increased for most locations in Atlantic Canada. The number of Harlequins observed during CBCs in the eastern United Slates have increased since the early 19705. Pan of these increases have been due to the addition of new CBC sites and potentially an increased awareness of !.he species.

Little data is available for the change in breeding numbers in eastern North America. Preliminary analyses by Peter Thomas for 24 rivers in Labrador. based on data collected by Jacques Whitford Environment indicated an annual percentage increase of 1.6% . However, !.he results are preliminary and the statistical methodology is being refined. Breeding individuals have also been investigated in more northerly regions. However, there is no reason to expect that Harlequin Ducks breeding in northern Qu6bec and Labrador (Le. moulting and wintering in Greenland) would have any influence on wintering trends displayed along the eastern North American eoast. Newfoundland breeders. however, have been linked to the eastern seaboard wintering Harlequins. Surveys of the breeding population along the Torrent River in Newfoundland in 1998, indicated an increase in breeding pairs, from 3 in 1993 to 10 pairs in 1998.

Goudie el of. estimated the overall population size at 1600 individuals wintering in North America. Other North American breeders are also known to winter along the coast of Greenland, but only preliminary infonnation is available on their population levels.

An final report in 1998 stipulates that eastern North American and western Nonh American populations of Harlequin Duck are genetically distinct (Scribner et at 1998). The allele frequency differeoces between regions, especially among the mitochondrial DNA are substantial (F. = 0.148; P <0.002) even when including samples colkx:ted from the Maine population (Scribneret aI. 1998). Scribner el aL (1998) showed thaI 13 of 14 haplolypes e were unique to one region, with the hierarchial F-Slatistic revealing that the variance in the

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mitochondrial DNA haplotype frequency was aruibul£d to both diffcreoces among the two regions (F. = 0.105; P < 0.002) and to differences among populations within regions (F. = • 0.197; P < 0.002). Further DNA analyses within the eastern region has indical£d significant genetic differences among three anaIyud sub-populations of the eastern region: Southern Canada (Lo. Soulhcastem Canada), Nonhem Canada (Le. Nonheastern Canada), and Iceland (Scribner et al 2000). Microsalelliles varied among regions and two of the three mitocbondrial DNA analysed also differed (Scribner et al 2(00).

Presently. tre separating line between the two sub-populations is not cblr, but there are indications that there may be overlap on the breeding grounds for the two sub-populations. Studies to assess the level of gene flow retwecn the two sub-populations have not been completed. However. due to the fact that Harlequin Duck pair-hording is known LO occur on the wintering grounds (Robertson et al 2(00), this would greatly reduce the likelihood of gene Dow between the Northeastern and Southeastern Canadian sub-populations.

Status Reoort

Considering the apparent increasing trend in the number of Harlequin Ducks along the North American coast and the detennination of a substantial Greenland wintering population, as well as the 10 year deadline fo r the status report of an endangered species, a revised status report will be written by Peter Thomas (CWS - Atlantic Region) and Michel Roben (CWS - Quthee Region). Harlequin Ducks are scheduled to have lhcir status reassessed during the November 2000 meeting of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWlC).

Literature Cited

Goudie. R.I. , G.H. Miltelhauser, D. Amirault, S. Brodeur, S. Gilliland and P. Trimper. unpubl. rep. Updated distribution and population status of Harlequin Ducks in eastern North America

Goudie, R.I. and I. Jones. 1999. Effects of disturbance on behaviour and condition of Harlequin Ducks breeding on the Fig River, Labrador. Unpubl. Rep. ACWERN, Memorial University, St. 10hn's, NF

Robertson, G.l. F. Cooke, R.I. Goudie and W.S. Boyd. 2(XXl Spacing patterns, mating systems, and winter philopatry in Harlequin Ducks. Auk 117: 299-307

Scribner, K.T., R. Lanctot, S. Talbot, B. Pierson and K.. Dickson. 1998. Genetic variation among populations of Harlequin Ducks (Histrionocus histrionicus): Are eastern populations distinct? Unpubl Final Rep. Region 5, U.S.F.W.S.

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Scribner, K. T.. S. Libants. R. Inman, S. Talbot. B. Pierson and R. Lanctot. 2000. Genetic variation among eastern breeding populations of Harlequin Ducks (Histrionocus histrionicus). Unpubl. Rep. Region 5, U.S.F.W .S.

Table I: Resighled HarLequin Duck bands on the Gannet Islands. Labrador during ground and boat surveys in July. 1999.

W-JX black right Jeft male W-FI black left right male W-YI black right left male W-HX black right left male W-2R black right left male W-JR black right left male W-FI black right left male W-VK black right left male W-PV black left right male W-YI black right left male W-HX black right left male W-FN black not recorded not recorded male W-YI black not recorded not recorded male W-ZT black not recorded not recorded male W-UN black not recorded not recorded male W-4R black not recorded not recorded male

Table 2: Harlequin Ducks observed during regular seaduck surveys in Nova SColia by Sill Barrow in 1999.

St. Peter's Bay ~-30 aerial

d

Figure 1: New Harlequin Duck moulting sites discovered in Newfoundland and Labrador during surveys by Seou Gilliland and Pierre Ryan on 16 August 1999 .

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3. LilLIe White Is land 4. Gull Ledl!e

Figure 2: Nova Scotia Harlequin Duck survey locations as indicated by Bill Barrow and Andrew MacFarlane.

Editor's note: Peter Thomas is the Endangered · Species Biologist with the Canadian Wildlife Service. If you see a harlequin duck please report the sighting to Peter 0 n2· 4297 or Fyzee or Tony 02n-1666

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The Lords and Ladies or Cape 5t. Mary's By John Cheeseman

This is one harlequin story that' s just ducky.

For the past few years, there' s reeD concern at the Cape St. Mary's seabird ecological reserve about harlequin ducks, which are small sea ducks from Labrador. northern Quebec and Greenland iliat spend winter in the Golden Bay area.

Known also as white-eyed divers. painted ducks, or lords and ladies, harlequin ducks are small, weighing less than 700 grams for the male and less than 600 grams for females. They' re roughly half the size of a mallard duck and the adult male is very colourful, having slale blue plumage, chestnut flanks, a grey beUy and streaks of white on its head and body.

Females and immature birds are plain, brownish-grey with white patches near the eyes and ears. Of the four world populations of harlequins, two are on either side of Canada. 'The western population is strong. but not so the eastern. 1be historic number for harlequins in eastern Canada was between 5,000 - 10,000 but recently has plummeted to about 1,000 birds, and no one is sure why. For that feason they've been listed as an endangered species.

1be reasons for their being at Golden Bay could be a combination of factors. One thing that is known is that they love fast-flowing water. 1fiey nest near fast-flowing freshwater streams and they like the surf of a rocky coastline. Add to that the possibility that they can shelter fairly well from wind in the bay, the shoals are not too deep, and there' s an ample food supply (they feed on things like small crabs, blue mussels, fish eggs, and various other creatures), and you have an ideal spot for harlequins.

The cape's harlequin population is the largest wintering population in eastern Canada From a population of over 400 birds in the early 1900's to a low of about 20 in the early 1990's, the latest numbers says there are 117 ducks. ''Our target is to bring the population back: to historical levels, but we don' t know where our birds migrate when they leave the cape," says Fyzee Shuhood. "We don't know if the new birds are young birds, adults immigrating, or if birds are emigrating, are they related to other populations, et cetera Our birds could be going to Greenland or Labrador. We don't know."

The project involves tracking these birds in order to discover this infonnation. They are caught, if and when they fly, in what's known as a mist net. A zodiac and people on land will reuieve the captured birds. Before being set free unhanned, the birds are banded, measured and blood samples are taken so the relationship to other populations can be determined, as well as where they breed. 'This infonnation is important for management purposes," Shuhood exp1ains. ''Right now the only population that is unsure is the Cape St. Mary's population. In all other areas they have done this work. This project will be unique for the island and will be the rust Newroundland population to be banded."

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1be plan to capture the ducks is dependent on weather and has to be done before the spring migration, therefore February is being considered. Along with Shuhood, there will be three people from the Canadian Wildlife Service, park interpreter Tony Power of Branch, and three students from Fatima Academy.

Power has been working to save the harlequins for a number of years, even before wildlife authorities were involved. "I was working on my own trying to save them. I was getting help from the communities in the area, the hunters and local people really helped out." lfil wasn't for their help. he says, ''1 believe we wouldn' t have the population we have today. "Myself, I'm nOltoo strong on even banding birds, because they're doing well without it. but banding birds will gCl more peop}c involved; Lhey'D look out for it. If they see a banded bird, we'll get a report. It'll be good that way.

"My biggest concern is injury 10 a bird. All the other places like the breeding grounds they have done banding but on wintering grounds, there's onJy one place in Maine they have done it. But now in the breeding grounds they may find these birds and where they're breeding, we don' t know. It's really a mystery."

The project is very much community driven and it 's vital to have local {X!ople involved in the plan. '"They have been a part of the ongoing recovery efforts and many hunters, local people, and students and teachers have helped in this," Shuhood observes. He thinks Fatima Academy's involvement is a key because it is a good science project and will give future scientists from the school a chance at first-hand experience to learn the trades of field work and what field scientists do. It can serve as an introduction for students interested in careers in the sciences like biology or marine biology. He points out that there has been great support from the school on this project. "I think the well-being of the reserve and the ducks are also of importance to the local people because it is their backyard. We want to infonn them of the importance of this project" Power agrees. "I feel that's the only way 10 go, too. I believe we'll select some students and see where their interests are and at least have Lhem hands on."

Local people ultimately benefit from protection and the recovery of wildlife and they should help in the conservation efforts. Shuhood continues. "For instance, if we don't protcct and manage ducks and do something about oil spills, it (oil) will have a major impact on the fIShing industry and hunters as well. So we must learn to work together ... there is local employment (all staff are from the local area) and economic benefits from tourism. Also we have a responsibility to conserve these beautiful birds just for the simple reason that all animaJs have a right to live ,"

Power appeals to a sense of pride local people can eam from being involved. "in this way they can help preserve an endangered species ... and try to do their best so if they can help out in some way they can feel proud. The population thal has increased is a big jump. Only for the people in the area, their numbers will be less."

lbe ways that local people can become involved are myriad. "Local hunters have to respect the e reserve boundary and regulatiorn and not disturb or hunt inside the reserve. Hunters should hunt only what they 'need' for their food and not take any more than they need. This should be the same in everything - we do not take more than we need . It 's a good principle to live by," Shuhood suggests.

Utf they see harlequin ducks they should avoid shooting them (sometimes a female harlequin could be mistaken for a female eider) and not disturb them. 1ben lhey should immediately report the sighting to Tony. 'The local students could get involved in many ways, from doing this as a science project, writing about it, doing a website. et cetera.

"Also, it is important for the local people to speak up against the ongoing oil pollution of Placentia Bay. Oil spills are not only impacting birds but also the ftsh; salmon, mussel farming, and polluting our beautiful Cape Shore beaches and the environment."

"Oil pollution is a big problem and not only to harlequins and sea ducks. but also to !.he whole Cape St. Mary's Bay area," Power says. "Even with our efforts banding birds arxI doing what we can, that big threat is there. Even as we speak, there's still oiled birds washing up."

(Re-printed by pennission of The Charter and Robinson Blackmore)

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This School Project is For TIle Birds

By John C heeseman

As soon as the weather's favourable, they' ll go duck hunting.

'They' are a tiny group of naturalists and field workers, along with four students from Fatima Academy~ and the duck hunting is expected to have a mortality rate of zero. What they' ll actually be doing, as soon as they get some good weather. is venture to Golden Bay near Cape S1. Mary's to attempt to Lrap some harlequin ducks so they can be studied funher.

On Tuesday. Peter Thomas of the Canadian Wildlife Service gave a presentation to about 20 students at Fatima, outlining what's going to be done, andjusL as important, why_ Thomas gave the students a slide presentation showing a brief history of the CWS and a list of some species at various at-risk leve ls in Newfoundland. Amo ng them is the endangered harlequin duck, of which a number overwinter at Go lden Bay. It's the largest single concentration of these waterfowl in eastern Canada, and the naturalists want to know where they come from, why they're here, and how they' re re lated to any o ther harlequins. if at all .

Peter Thomas explaining to students about the harlequin duck project and describes the mist net that will be used to live trap harlequin ducks

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'This wintering population is all we have to go on because Lheir breeding grounds are so isolated," Thomas told the group. Harlequins breed near fast-running fresh water, especially in e Labrador. One of the things that has naturalists worried is that the ducks at Golden Bay, which have numbered up to 117. are a localized and concentrated population, leaving them vulnerable to threats like oil pollution. ' 'If a slick is in one area there arc probably many birds that are going to get hit." If there is no way to understand the ecology of these birds, then a conservation program can ' t be established fo r them, Thomas continued. About 300 to 400 birds have been tagged so far in eastern North America. but none of the birds seen in Newfoundland have been wearing one. "What makes them so special?" is the question Thomas and others would like to have answered. "How can we do effective management if we don' t even know where these birds are coming fromr'

The process for catching the birds isn't as simple as it appears. First, the birds have to be located, observed to find their favourite rocks and other areas, capture methods must be adjusted and then plans are made for the capture. Actual capture will be done by driving the birds into a mist net, which is a very light net aoout 30 to 40 feet long when stretched. The method works well, Thomas noted and there appears to be stress on the birds at the start, but they relax while being handled and afterwards.

After being caught, the birds are processed by being banded with colored metal bands, having blood and tissue samples taken for DNA analysis, and feather samples are taken for stable isotopes. They are then released and as Thomas observed, they scurry away. and in a few minutes have resumed their DOnnal activities. 'We think: it ' s a pretty good trade-off," he said, saying that e there' s never once been a mortality.

There are a number of ways for individual students and the communities they live in to gain from ventures like this. There's important experience to be gained in working with an endangered species, with added education aoout the science and management of these species, Thomas explained. There's a sense of pride for the students to be gained, too, from helping an endangered species. This sense of pride can also spill over into the local community in that they're ncar the largest population of harlequin ducks if eastern Canada, with a greater understanding of the importance of an endangered species, again with an understanding of conservation science and management.

Fmally, there are economic benefits. With increased security for a unique species, there's the possibility that it could become a tourist attraction. '"Tourists mean dollars," Thomas pointed out.

(Re-printed by permission of The Charter & Robinson Blackmore)

EditOf'S note: The harlequin duck project went ahead successfully. Seven harlequin ducks were captured, banded and safely released to the Vt'ilcl. This Vt'inter we Vt'ill take the grade 12 students on a field trip to Golden Bay to try and locate the banded t>rds. •

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Tony Power, Naturalist, speaking to students aboullhe imponance of Natura] Areas such as Cape Sl. Mary's and what they can do to help the recovery of the harlequin duck

The four lucky young people Bay for banding and further study. From to right, they are Bruce White, Ashley Colbert,

Samantha Hardy and Roger Coffey

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Male harlequin duck (A small colortul seaduck with chestnut sides and white patches and spots. Note the conspicuous "haij crescent" shaped white feathers between the eye and base of the

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short bluish bill. Females are grey-brownish with white face spots. Eclipse and • immature males resemble female)

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Oil Pollution An Interview by Wanda McGrath & Chris Young. Fatima Academy. 51. Bride'l. 1lIe Clpc Sbcn: (1998)

As most everyone is a ware oil accumulations were dumped into the open sea endangering many forms of wild life in our duri ng the past couple of months.

Although spills are a startling reali ty, t he best way to protect our environment from them is to prevent them from occurring.

When such incidences occur many people find themsel ves asking the questions "What is oil? " a nd " How is it formed?". Oil is the mixture of complex hydrogen and carbon compounds which are found below the surface of

the earth. Most of these compounds are the fossil remains of prehistoric forests and seafloor life. The plants and animals were buried in layers of sediment, li.ke silt and sand, before they could decompose. More and more layers were deposited. Over a period of a million years, the pressure and bacteria actively converted into mounds of organisms to oil. Thus, it is conclusive that the major deposits are found in sedimentary basins far below the earth I s surface.

In addition, when an awareness of an extensive spill is stimulated within

What type of oil was evident in the spi ll?

the public, each individual seems to wonder "What causes spills?". An accidental spill is only one of the several ways that oil ends up in our waters. Naturally occurring oil seeps, offs hore oil, gas production a nd waste discharges are other ways. In fact , the t wo major sources of oil input into the environment are municipal wastes and routine tanker operations.

Below, is an interview conducted with Mr. Tony Powe r , an Interpreter Naturalist at Cape St Mary s Ecological Reserve.

It was a heavy oil referred to as bunker C. Samples were taken from the birds a nd have been sent away to be ana l ysed.

Is there any idea where the oil came from? No, t he source has not yet been found. However the Canadian Coast Guard is still investigating the matter.

What effec ts did the oil spill have on our area? Thousands of sea birds were killed because they were the first species to come in contact with the oil.

Approximately h ow many sea b ird s were ki l led? The exact number is unknown, but 2400 birds were picked up. estimate t hat for ever bird picked up on the beaches , there were at least four wh ich were unrecovered. That t s only about one quarter of the birds that were effected. Most birds don ' t make it to shore as they perish and sink. Though some end up on

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remote beaches that are unaccessible .

How many birds . if a ny. were s a ved? We had a volunteer group at Cape St. Mary's which consisted of the Btaff. local people, and outside volunteers. We had six birds. most of which lasted about four days, others only lasted a day due to the ingested oil. However, ' we had one Old squaw that lasted a month. We kept this bird in a kid's swimming pool and pen at the Cape. We tried to make its enviroment as natural as possible by putting salt water in the pool and surrounding it with beach rocks. This allowed the bird access to the water. We also had a heat lamp connected so the bird could dry itself off. The birds appetite was improving, it ate fourteen capelin a day, therefore it was gaining weight . Sb e wa s eating good and b avi ng the time of her life . All the food for the bird was donated. The bi rd also acquired a taste for shrimp whi c h became her favourite food. I was very disappointed after the bird died and I began to ask myself, Is it worthwhile t o save b i rds aft e r t his? But we learned a few things to better prepare ourselves in the event that this should happen again. There 1 s al ways something n ew to do and you never s t op learning.

What was the local conservation? The people of the local communities got involved with collecting the oiled birds which were along the beaches, that was our first priority. Also, many people were involved with rehabilitating the oiled sea birds. This was the first time I saw loca l people become so i nvolved . I was glad to see such involvement.

Do you believe that local conservation effor t s were sufficient? More is needed, however, this was only a start . We need to be prepared, but I guess we are never ready for something like this. I also think we have to keep training.

Old you train for a nythi ng l i ke t his bef o r e? 1 have been dealing with oily sea birds since 1989. We di d not have the facilities or the equipment needed to deal with t his kind of tragedy, but we did the best we could under t he circumstances. No matter what you do, you will always look back and think there is more you could have done .

What action p l a ns were implemented t o enaure a speedy clean- up? The Canadian Coast Guard had their workers out removi ng o i led birds. They were helped by the efforts of the local people. There wasn ' t much oil washing up on the beaches, however~ the birds themselves were bringing in the oil. I was very concerned that this would get into the food chain .

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Were there any other animals e f f ected by the s pill? e Yes, we had bald eagles, foxes, and gulls which prey on these contaminated birds. Foxes snatched oily birds from the beaches and ran with them, therefore it was easy for any predator to be exoosed to the oily b i rds. Sometimes it can take a lonq t ime

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Do you believe that local conservation efforts were sufficient? More is needed, however, this was only a start . We need to be prepared, bu t I guess we are never ready for something like this. I also thi nk we have to keep training .

Did y ou train f o r anything lik e this befo re ? I have been dealing with oily sea birds since 1989. We did not have the facilities or the equipment needed to deal with this kind of tragedy, but we did the best we could un der the circumstances. No matter what you do, you will always loo k back and think there is more you could have done.

Wha t a c tion plans were i mplemented t o ensure a speedy clean - up? The Canadian Coast Guard had t heir workers out remov ing oiled birds. They were he l ped by the efforts of the local people . There wasn I t mu ch o i l washing up on t he beaches , ho wever, the birds themselves were bringing in the oil. I was very concerned that this would get into the food chain.

We r e there any other an i mals e ffected by the spill ? Yes, we had bald eagles, faxes, a nd g u lls which prey on these contaminated birds. Faxes snatched oily bird s from the beaches and ran with t hem, t h erefore it was easy for any predator to be exposed to the oily birds . Some t i me s it can take a long time before it beg ins to have an effect o n the pred ator, however, it ca n effect t he breeding.

wi ll there be anything don e a bout the openi ng of the next bird season due to this tragic incident? Near Cape St. Mary ' s there were about 200 oiled birds, so the numbers are declining each year . Hunting, also, h as its pressures o n t he sea bir ds . I heard rumours t hat there ma y be a shortened seabird hunting season or there ma y be fewer numbers per bag limit.

Has the oil been c leaned? There is still some oi l on the beach in Gooseberry in wood and ropes. Sometimes the sea covers the oil up and it resurfaces after a storm. Oil i s very hard to clean uP!

What has been done wi t h t he seabirds that have been f ound d e ad? They were brought to the Coast Guard building i n St. John I B to be identified and counted. Then t hey will be incin erated .

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Do you have any thing e lse y ou would like to a dd? 1 would like to thank all the people who helped rehabilitate the birds and to let them know their efforts weren ' t wasted. People like Fyzee Shuhood, Chris Newhook, Lori Pretty . Dave Fifield, Ray Fagan, Helen (the vet). Janice Power and many others who donated food for the birds. Thanks also to Stan Tobin, the staff of the Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve. Canadian Wildlife and t o the Canadian Coast Guard, for the equipment they gave us helped in a huge way. Thanks to ever yone!

Wandoa Mc:a~.th , Chria Young

Editor's note: The seasonal occurrence of chronic oil pollution on the beaches of the Cape Shore and thelf Impact on the wildlife and seabirds has prompted local concern in the communities surrounding Cape St Mary's The students of the local school, Fatima Academy in St. Bride's, were very concerned about the impact of 011 pollution on their local environment and took some action to help Two students of Fatima Academy, Wanda McGrath and ChriS Young conducted an Interview With Tony Power in order to understand what is happening and to bring that Informallon to the rest of the school. The following was their interview and report which was published In their school news magazine. ChriS Young is now studying al MUN and still continues hiS enVLTonmentallnteresls ThiS summer of 2000 he was hired as the Green Team leader with the Conservation Corps In 51. Bride's illS encouraging to see this type of Involvement by local high-school students. We would like to hear other similar stories from members.

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Seabird Soul Set Free by Janina Cartstad

As a seabird - I fly high upon a sea of emotion Uke a seabird - I wing my way to aMudes wherein lay the silver linings of earth's clouds. I am a seabird - plunging off solid cliffs to unknown depths before me Rising through the sea of expectations Slipping through the wisps of mist and fog.

Soaring 'mongst the rocky crags of time, Diving through the frothy foam of tidal waters, I am a seabird chasing visions, streaking through the waves of the future ... Sensitive strength, warmth of feathers, softly help me find my way, slide my way through the currents of each passing day ... avoiding bilious spills of oil, I pray ...

Come take flight w~h me In a world of every hue Where we'll wheel and soar through clear blue skies As if we were on cue.

Angel Forces of earth and sky Design the Path where we may fly And then, As in formation · Our wings we lift - so sure and strong Seeking ocean routes world wide -Up, up - we liftl Where hearts belong ..

Returning thus to the nest, all will see to the young Returning to this home we've built To tradition, long we 've clung -The seabirds to their roost, their space Among the colony ... All seabirds to tt1eir nesting place So wild, so brave, so free ...

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Fiercely will we, must we defend Sea 'scapes 'round us, so we send A message to all seaborn species The cliffs, resources, miracles unknown, Uve golden chains of our world at best A world within a treasure chest -A circle of I~e w~hout end We believe it's so, Let's make it so, Keep ~ so... Oooh ...

Crusaders of the sky and sea Ride the crests of the waves­Swim the tides with me ... Wingtip to wingtip, glide with me Know the joy, the synchronicity As caught in the updraft we fly as one To be Ever nearer the rays of the sun, The glow of the silvery moon TheOne ...

Come fly w~ me, fly with me In a world of every hue We wheel and soar through clear blue skies As if we are on cue.

Angel Forces of earth and sky Designing the Path whereby we fly So, then, As in formation -Our wings we lift - so sure and strong Up, up - we rise -Wild hearts beat long ..

Beautiful souls, kindred light Thoughts set free on a breeze We are as birds, Who need to Bel

The seabirds and the sea ...

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No Flight of Fancy

Birds, birds, birds, not just any birds,

GEESE! My heart sings with their sound ...

soft murmurs, contented, muted honking as

skein upon skein of Canada Geese

arrive in the field.

Wings uplifted, feet outstretched to

embrace the earth as myriads of birds land

upon the kernels of grain left behind.

The autumn travellers arrive finding food and rest

preparing for the remainder of their journey. And I, I watch and rejoice in their company,

at one with the freedom, the wildness,

the symbol of faith everlasting .. .

My spirit soars as those wings lift up and the geese circle

to land again. Each day brings joy anew until finally,

across the field

there must be a thousand of them or more spread

gabbling amongst themselves, necks curved as beaks busily search for barley.

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And then, as the · dawn's early light creeps in my window

and I lay at peace with my world,

a sound . ..

The dismayed, distressed,

honking of frightened creatures, the fluttering

of wild wings and

A SHOT!

Betrayed, the geese rise in flocks that bleed across the sky,

flying above that mysterious shape in the field,

a blind. A truck creeps across the broken stalks

and, terrified waves upon waves of geese

ftee over the field. ANOTHER SHOT!

As a second wild body falls to the ground

in this new field of death a part of me, of my very soul,

dies too.

Trembling, with eyes that blur

I raise my hand in farewell

through salty tears,

and quietly close

the curtains.

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I sit and await the sound of the engine

for then, the hunters are leaving.

The field lays silently now, awaiting the dawn of a cold, new season.

by Janina Carls tad September 1994

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f/J( llintrr /tIlPn fl999/ltJlJOj in fJint-Pi(ff( d Hif/ut/pn A winter with more snow (mostly in January) than in ncent years, fairly mild in February. The CBe (our 20th) took place Dec. 18 with J J participants. Species in Cape of Miquelon were seen by Christine Hih.ert (Calbrix). Severa/Interesting species seen, a few first winter records. Common Loon : 76 during the esc is a record high for the event, most of them seen off the Cape of Miquelon (see last winter's report). Between 100 and J 10 birds were seen there January 9, 19 and 25 and February 23, a lower number (82) was noted on February 14 under good conditions of observation (RE). A few otbcrbirds here and there, the only significant numbers were 20 of the South coast orst. Pierre Janwuy 4 (BL) and 14 offtbe West coast ofMiquelon January 24. Birds were also seen in Sl Pierre barbour several times (pA/PB) for a maximum of 4, January 29 (PA), Pied-bilk d G rebe: One in Sl Piem: harbour December 26 (DG) was reponed regularly between January 9 and Februaty 4 (pAlBLlRFJDUPBlFPA This is the first known winter 0CCUJ1'etl0e.

~: One in 5t Pierre harbour between February 16 and 19 was photographed by PA This is our fourth record and a first for February. Red-necked Grebe: We had only four during the CBC. In St. Pierre BL had 2.5 birds January 4 and about the same number throughout the month. they built up to about 40 on February 3 (PB) and 101 Feb. 13 (FPA). The maximum for St Pierre is 121 counted by FPA Feb. 27. In Miquelon, ofT the Cape (see Common Loon) there were about 40 on January 9, about 110, January 25, 283 Feb. 14 and 460 on February 23, on this last date I was very lucky that they took off slowly in little groups., my count was about half that number whilc the birds were sitting on water t In all this is again a largc number, over 500 birds prescnt,. as last year, around the islands . Northcrn Fulmar: Two only, seen by U North of Colombier island January 13. DooblNrtJted Cormorant: Of the 24 cormorants sp. seen during the CBC some were probably this species. at least four birds were on the cliffs of Cape Miquelon January 9 (RE). Two were in St. Pierre baJbour January 16 (RE) and one January 25 (PA), the two species were reported in St. Pierre harbour by PB January 29. Great Cormorant: 54, mostly seen in Cape Miquelon during the CBe is a record high. About 40 birds were seen a few times in January/Fcbruary on the cliffs ofthc Cape (RE). Several were reported around St. Pierre harbour throughout the season (m. ob.). ~: Two birds were seen and described by several people ncar the village ofMiquclon, following a storm, on January 21. This is a first known winter occurrence. ~: Eight birds (on1y) were seen on Grand Barachois December 29 (RE) and January 16 (lJ), unfortunately not during the CBC. Wood Duck : One in flight near Mirande lake December 22 (BL). American Wigeon: Onc female was spotted in St. Pierre harbour, independently by U and PB on January 22 (see date for Snow Goose) and was photographed by PB on Jan. 2.5. Reported regularly there up to the end of the periode (PBlPA). This is a first known winter oc:currcnce. American Black duck: The lagoon of Grand Barachois was partly frozen and only occasionally this winter. Wc have a record high of 572 counted under good conditions on Febrwuy 2 (YD/RE). We had 479 birds during the CBC. There was an hybrid BlacklMallard there January 24 (RE). There was a maximum of 20 in or around St. Pierre Feb. 24 (BL). One spent the winter with domestic duck near the town of St. Pierre (m. ob.). Mallard: One male was at Grand Barachois December 15 (RE), 18 (REIDL -CBC-) and February 2 (RE). Two males and one female near the village of Miquelon January 29 (RE) were seen a few days earlier by JPO. They were also seen there February 3, 10, 24 and 26 (DOIBLJRE). Green-winged Teal : Four birds were in St.Pierre December 2, and 3 were near the west coast of Miquelon December 22 (BL). One spent the winter in a tiny open waler area in a pond of Sl Pierre with domestic ducks and one Black Duck (REJDLlPBJUIPA). ~ : Three: on a pond near the town oC St. Pierre since early November were last seen by BL December 8. Five birds were near the village ofMiquelon January 7 (DO). Common Eider : We had 1091 birds during the CBC, it ranks third in CBC numbers, highest were in 1990 and 1991. The species was prescnt and well reported throughout the season. An aerial survey conducted by U on February 26 gave an estimated number of6100 birds. Harlequin Duck: One female in 5t. Pierre December 14 and one male in 51. Pierre harbour January IS appeared either injured or oiled (BL).

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~: The highest number, 80 birds. were seen by U off the Isthmus during the CBC. Last seen :

:::!~n~S::'.7w::' ll~b~!.s during the CBC oJfthe east coast of the Isthmus (UIRElDL). e About 80 lO 90 were ofl'the Isthmus January 28 (RE). ~: We had 80 birds during the CBCaJl off the lsthmus seen byU. ~: Fairly common as usual around our coasts. we had 332 birds only during the cae. conditions were not excellent for seabirds that day in some areas. About 2000 birds were seen congregated near the North-East coast oCMiqueloo. after the stonn, on January 22 (BL). About 200 birds were offMirandc January 31 and about 300 in flight in small groups seen (rom Cape Miqueion February 23 (RE), Commoa GoIdenen : Seen regularly as usual in Grand Barachois and not always easy to count There was a maximum ofal least 125 birds there: February 14 and between 100 to 110 February 2 (RE). Rd-brgJtcd Merza_sr : Only 64 during the CBC was fairly low but about average. They appeared to be in rather low numbers at Grand Baracbois throughout the season. There was about 300 birds off Mirande, after the storm. 00 January 22 (BL). More than 60 birds were off the east coast ofMiquelon Janwuy 3 J and over 60 at Grand Barachois Feb. 14 (RE), ~ : Several reporu of adults and immatures in the three islands (m.ob), ODe pair appeared turitorial on the Cape on Dcocmber 16 and one adult, near the usual nest was unconcerned by the presence ofpeopJe February 26. Present last year the pair didn't nest I (RE), Sh'I]Hhinotd Hawk : One individual spent the winler in St. Pierre and was regularly reported. feeding 00 J~ between December 29 and February 23 (UIDGIPAlPBlFPAIMD) Nortbem Go!ba"k: One inunature in North-eastem Miquelon December 10 (RE) one, probably the same the next day, same area (U) One in Sou!hem Miquelon December 15 (U) and one near the !OWn of Sl Pierre January 29 (BL). Roum-Sud Ha"k: One In Sl Pierre February 13 (FPA) and one well seen and described by Denis Detcha'erry near Mirande lake February 19. Amtrican Kestrel: One ind.ividuaJ, well described by LoTc Detcheveny 10 PB in Sl Pierre February 21 was also seen a few days earlier by Gregory Ziebach,. and briefly by DL and RE.

r;.:;);=1:P~~rre was reported 6 times between December 16 and February 20 e Ams:rkyI Coot : The individuaJ seen in Sl Pierre in November was was presenl until January 6 and reported 5 times (PBlDGlFPAlMDIBL). NQRTIJERN LAPWING : One was well seen and described by J\.-ID during the CBC on December 18. Blask-bellied P lover' Tllrec birds were present at Grand Barachois during the CBe (RFJDL), and still !here January 24 and February 2 (RE). One only was spotted on February 14 same area. Killdeer: A few birds arrived bert after the big JanlW)' stonn : in Sl Pierre : 3 January 23 (PA), 4, Jan. 28, &lid 3 the next day (SA), one, January 30 (PB). One in Miquelon January 29 and 2 Feb. 3 (RE). Last seen 4 in Sl Pierre Feb. 4. (PA) . .Bed...K!!!!!: We had eleven birds at Grand Barachois during the CBC (REIDL) and I had 18 birds, same area January 24. Sanderling: Thirteen were tallied at Grand Barachois during the CBC (REIDL). Pumk SandpiPfr: Seemed to be quite rare in Sl Pierre thls winter : 3, Dec. 7 (BL) and 3 January 6 (U). We bad 33 birds in Miquelon during the CBC. about 55 birds were on the coast ofthc Cape near the village of Miquelon February J and about 60 on February 26 (RE). ~ : One only with other shorebirds during the cac (REIDL) ~ : About 30 birds, too far for identification, were present on the sand banks of Grand Barachois December 29, about 15 on January 28 and once again about 30, February 2 (RE). Common Snipe: One on the Isthmus on December 9 (RE) and one near the east coast ofMiquelon around February 7 (DO). Black-Maded Gull : A few birds here and there throughout the season. There was a maximum or 9 birds ocarthe village ofMiquelon December 10 (RE) and a maximum of 10 in Sl Pierre February 19 (PA). Rinz-billed Gull : One immature near the village of Miquelon December 9 (RE), one adult in SL Pierre Dec. 16 (FPA) and ODe adult at Grand Barachois Dec. 18 became a first for our CBe. Herrin, Gull: 300 were tallied during the CBC. ~: Common as usua1 in St. Pierre haIbour, although not reported and seen only by me during visits to the neigbouring island! We had 44 birds mostly on the west coast orMique)on during the CBe. I e

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had about 20 birds on the west coast of the Istlunus January 24. Glaucous Gull : One oruy seen during the CBC. Gmt Blac::k-blc;ked Gull : We had 116 birds during the CSC, many of them at Grand Baracbois. There were about 50 birds on the Isthmus January 28 (RE), Black-legged Kittiwake : 178 were tallied during the CSC, as usual, mostly off the Cape ofMiquelon. Very few other birds seen during the rest of the season. ~ We had 10 only during the cae. all off the Cape. II other reports ohery few birds at a time. I bad 2 or 3 birds on the east coast ofMiqueloll (RE) and MD had 3 or 4 birds near tie aux Marins (near St. Pierre) on January 31 . A few birds were seen in or around 51. Pierre harbour up to February 19 (BURElDIJPBlPAlFPA). Thick-billed Mum: About twelve birds were in St. Pierre harbour January 16 (RFJDL), a few in 51. Pierre harbour up to February 19 (PA), ~: 17 were counted dwing the cae. Bilek Guillemot: BL had about 100 birds off the West coast orst. Pierre December 7 (RE), Fifteen only were seen during the cae, in contrast with 133 last year, reflecting different wind and sea conditions. lRerc were about 100 birds offthc Cape ofMiquelon January 9 (RE). Fairly common around the coast as usual. Mourning Doyt : Seen throughout the season at feeders in S1. Pieme and Miquelon. SA had a maximum of 12 birds in St Pierre December II which diminished to 5 in late February. JCH had a maximum of9 birds in Miquelon up to January 13. they dwindled to 6 birds up to the end of the period. Four only were seen in the village during the CBC. 2!!!.m: A large Owl was reported fecding on a rock dove in the town of St. PierrcFebrwuy 17. Seen by several people all non birders. we probably wouJd never know if it was a Great Homed Owl or a Long """'Owl I Boreal Owl : 1 was captured in the town ofMiquelon by Jean Michel on a tree near his house. afraid that it was captured by cats, be released it outside of the village. This bird, that was shown to me, was present in the village during the CBC and was then included to our count. Another one was seen and photographed in SI. Pierre January 21 (DGlFPA). Belted Kingfisher: One in Langlade December 18 was a first for the CBC (LJ). Northern Flicker: Although not exceptional in winter, this year probably broke records, there were 13 reports (between Dec. II & Feb. 25) in the 3 islands, one bird at a time except two in Miquelon December 11 (LJ) and 3 in St. Pierre February 23 . Northern Shrike: One in Miquelon December 9 (RE), one at Langlade January 14 (LJ). One in St. Pierre February 25, capturing Juncos (FPA). 1 had two at Langlade February 29 (RE). Blue Jay: Well reported throughout the season by most observers. for a maximum of 4 or 5 birds December 20, and two January 5 (MD & fide MO). No more than one at a time was reported thereafter. Amerita. Crow : Fifty-five counted during the CBC is a record high. Common Raven: 168 during the CBC is also a record high. The previous record was 79 in 1997. Horned Lark : 14 birds during the CBC was an average number while the record high wasJ2 in 1993. A few birds here and there throughout the season for a maximum of 14 near the village ofMique1on FebruaJy to and 6 near the Isthmus 4days later (RE). Black-gpoed Chickadee: Three records for a rather rare species these last years, I during the CBC in Miquelon seen by MD. One in 51. Pierre December 26 and Jan. 17 (FPA) Boreal Chickadee: 19 were seen during the CBC mostly by MD in the woods ofMiquelon. A few birds throughout the season reported mostly for Sl Pierre (FPAlPAlDGlPB). Red=breaned Nuthatch : 4 seen in the woods ofMiquelon by MD during the CBe. ~ : One in SI. Pierre Dec. 4 (SA) One only during the CBC see by MD in southwestern Miquelon. Golden-c;rowned Kinglet: 16. during the CBC mostly seen by MD in the woods ofMiquelon. Several reports, for SI. Pierrrc only between December 16 and February 20 (pAlDGlFPA) American Robin: OUR FIRST ON A CBC I .... seen in Cape Miquelon. We had a count week only in 1979 and 1990. Northern Mockingbird: One only in the town ofSt Pierre January 3 (U). Europeln Stlrting: Almost totally absent from Miquelon in recent years they have rebounded to a maximum of 200 seen during the CBC in the village of Miquelon. 160 were counted by LG in the village

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Occ:ember 12. I had about 60 birds in the village and about 40 near the Isthmus on February 2S.

~!r~~:~~·~=~a;.~;,~:=~:o;!D~~O(11IJanuary9 e Bobemiaa Wl!!!lal : About 40 in flight in Miqueion December II (U). About 100 Waxwing sp. $OCIl in the town St Pierre were reported by MD for December 24. Seven other repol1S onJy in Sl Pierre up to January 29 (MDIBUDGIPA). for a maximum of 10 and IS birds seen by MD January 23 and 29 ....,.,amly. Oraage-sl"OWned Wlf'bler : A WINTER FIRST : one was photographed by PB in Sl Pierre January 31. AnothcrODC (or the same 1) was seen at close range byFPA on February 19,20 to 24. Various books coosuItcd iDdic:ate that it can feed on fruits and tree sap. Dunn and Garrett, in « Warblers " page 1S4 Ita1ed that : « These are rdaliveJy hardy WIllblers that winter farther north than most of OW'" species )t,

YdIowOlmped Wubkr : Oocin the town ofSl Pierre December 26 and 29 (MO) Yellow-!bro"ed WIthin: Mentioned in our fall migration report. it was last seen in Sl Pierre Dec:embu' (FPA). ~: OncwithJuncosatthcfecderJanuary 17and21 (FPA), Wbile-!hro.te4 Sparrow : One at the feeder almost everydaybetwceo January 18 and 26 (PB), I had one with a few Juncos on the cast coast ofMiquclon January J I. Dark-eYed Junco: We bad only 4 birds during the cac I ... 3S other reports., mostJy at feeders. Rita Rue) had a maximum of about 20 at her feeder January 14, while FPA had a maximum of 19 at the feeder in January, etc. None reported in feeders in the village ofMiquelon. whicb may not offer sufficient sbeUer. I bad a few on the East coast of Miquclon January 31. ~: III during the esc was a fairly low number, as compared to several bundrcds present earlier in the season. About 100 were ncar Grand Baracbois December IS (RE and Claude SCde). ScveraI other reports, in fairly low numbers (maximum 30 to 40) up to February 26 (MOIPAIRE). ComIDO! Grackle : Seen in Sl Piene only and around 2 fceders. Twelve reports between December 2 and Feb. 15 for a maximum of 5 birds at a time (PBIDO). ~ : 24 during the esc was a rt:COrd, as compared to 23 last year I LH had 9 birds on =; ~~ S::~ll~=~y~ ~~r~~;:i~:no~==ie:eu:7a:~6, Feb. 12, _ 19 and 20. MD had!5 birds on Northeastern SL PieneJanuary 29. White-"inged Crossbill : A few heard in fligbt in Miquelon December 10 and three only seen by MD during the CDC. ComIl!9! Redpoll : 6 only during the esc in whicb 3 were on the Isthmus I (REIDL). There were l2 birds ncar the town of Sl Pierre January 13 (PH). I bad about 40 birds on the west coast ofMiquelon January 28, and IS to 20 CD the east coast 3 days later. Pine Siskin: Twelve were oountcd during the CBC. Other reports oo1y for Sl Pierre and only at fcoden: bc:twccn Oecc:mber II and February 27 (SAlPBlPAlSA) for a maximum of 10 birds January 13 (DG) Ameriw Goldfinch : One was a count wedc in Miquelon December 19 at JCH's feeder. Twelve reports moslly for SL Piene for a maximum of 10 birds, February 3 (PB). From these: reports it seems that numbers have dintinished as compared to previous years. In Miquelon there was one only at JCH's feeder up to Januruy 31. Ennin, Gmbeak : One ma1e ouly at JCH's feeder throughout the season. including the esC. HouK Spa!T9!!' : IS counted in the village ofMiquelon during the CBC.

Contributo" : Fr6deric a. Patricia AUcn-Mahe (FPA)~ Sylvie: Allcn-Mahe (SA); Pascal Asselin (PA); Patrick Boc:z (PB); Marc DCrible (MO); David Dctchevcny (DD); Yvon Detcheveny (YO); Uon Gaspard (LG) ; Dominique Gouvemc (00); Philippe Haca1a (PH); Jacky and Christine Hebert (JCH); Laurent Jackman (lJ); Danicl1e Lebollocq (DL); Bruno Letoumel (BL); GregOI)' Zicbacz.

Miquclon, March 6, 2000 Roger Etchcbeny

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• The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador

SPRING INDOOR PROGRAM

Please IIotice some cllanges ill plans: Tile Marcil meetillg will feature a talk by TOllY Power, alld tile slide sllow will be lIeld in May illstead of Marcil.

Thursday, March 16,2000

After the election of the new executive and submission of reports (all of which should take up a very short time!) the Wild Things Scholarship will be presented. Then Tony Power, of the Cape 5t. Mary 's Ecological Reserve, will address the meeting on the subject: Live and Let Live; Reflections on the Use of Natural Resources in Newfoundland.

Thursday, April 20, 2000

George Rose wi ll reminisce about his work in Africa as he tells about his Travels in Africa; the Former Life of a Fisheries Scientist .

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Thursday, May 18,2000

Bring your favourite 35 mm slides because this is Slide Show Night. Anything goes, Newfoundland natural history, your vacation in Florida. garden birds etc. (The late Fred Aldrich did specify "No pets": but a pet crow might be acceptable, for example!)

Thursday, June 15,2000

Meet at 7:00 P.M. for a stroll or hike at The Botanical Garden, Oxen Pond. We can name this meeting Spring at Oun Pond.

No meetings wilJ be held in July and August, unless something unexpected comes up.

We may contribute to the Flower Show, which is held, normally, late in the summer. If so, volunteers e will be needed to help set up our booth and to look after it during the show.

If you are wondering about Ospreys, do not worry. Publication has been delayed, and will be on track before long.

The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador

Membership Application

• Name: _______________________ Date: Home address: _________________________ _

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E-mail address: _______ ---,=-_______ -::-________ _ Telephone - home:, ______ office: ______ f3x:, ____ _

Renewing members: _ continue Osprey from last received issue _ continue Osprey with next issue

Mailing address for Society publication "The Osprey" (if different from above):

My interests are: ( Please be specific, to help us wit h our program planning. ) birds? wildflowers? animals? marine mammals? indoor events? indoor work- shops? outdoor events? walking? interpretive walks? hiking? cross-country skiing? canoeing? cycling? back-pack camping? winter camping? Olher: ____________________________ _

Annual membership fee enclosed:

My donation to the society (a tax receipt will be issued):

Society Lapel Pins: _ @ $3.00 each

Society Jacket Crests: _ @ $4.00 each

Total to cheque/money order enclosed:

Please make your cheque payable to :

"The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador"

and send it together with this form to:

The Membership Coordinator The Natural History Society of Newfoundland and Labrador P.O. BOI 1013 SI. John's, NF Ale 5M3

$ 20.00

$_­

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$ __

$ __

or bring this form with yOUf cheque to the next regular Society meeting at The Memorial University Botanical Garden on the Tl-URD THURSDAY of each month from September to June. There are no meetings during July e and August.

Dr OonSteele Dept of BIology MUN

RARITlES­ONLY FROM THE

NA TURAl HISTOR Y SOCIETY

Getting to Know the Weeds - the Collected Writings of Charlie Horwood. Charlie was a faithful and long-serving member of the Society. He was also a thoughtful and insightful naturalist with a gift for capturing his view of the natural world, in writing. This 160 page book reproduces over fifty of Charlie's best short pieces. Soft cover ...•.....•..•.•..••.....•.....•••.....••....•.............. $14.95

Society Lapel Pins. Back by popular demand. These four­color enamel pins reproduce the Society's "Osprey", originally designed by John Maunder, in blue, brown and white on a gold

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back. Oval. • Lapel Pins ...••..••..•...•.......••••.•.....•........•.•..•... $3.00

Society Jacket Crest. NEW! These crests are based on the original "half moon" design drawn by Newfoundland artist Reginald Shepherd. They feature a stylized osprey snatching a fish. They are embroidered in five colors, and are approximately 4" wide by 1 'X" high. Embroidered Crest ..••••••..•••.•.•...••..•...••••••.••.•. $4.00

Society Memberships. Any time is a great time to give a membership to the Natural History Society. The cost is $20.00, good for one year. It includes four issues of The Osprey, and notices to all Society functions. lIIembership ••••••..•.•••.••.••••••••..••.••..••••••.•.•••••.••. $20.00

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