https://cpw.cvlcollections.org/files/original/fff2967d8eba0516ddb5963e6eb09a2e.pdf 02599274277e0f3a9335c7f8ed27562b PDF Text Text ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Woodling (1985), NDIS (2014), and Paul Foutz (pers. comm., CPW). The remaining maps were created using county occurrence. For birds, the following resources were used: Andrews and Righter (1992), First Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (Kingery 1998), Second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (COBBAII 2015), and CFO (2015). Reptile and amphibian maps were created using Hammerson (1999) and NDIS (2014). Mammal maps were created using NDIS (2014), Boyle (2006), Grunau et al. (1999), and Schorr (200 1). Habitat Condition Scorecards Wildlife species profiles have been created for priority wetland-dependent birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Example species covered include (clockwise from top left): least tern, Preble's meadow jumping mouse, redbelly dace, and northern leopard frog. The purpose ofthese profiles is to provide landowners andland managers with easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitatneeds of priority wetland-dependent wildlife. 2014). Additional wetland-dependent priority species more specific to the mountains or western Colorado are not included in this series, but may be developed in ilie future. Introduction Colorado Distribution This series of species profiles consists of 18 profiles for 26 wetlanddependent wildlife species; three profiles cover guilds with multiple related species: the dabbling duck profile includes seven species; the frog profile and the redbelly dace profile each include two species. These 26 species were selected because they were included in research on habitat preferences completed as part of projects in the Lower Soutl1 Platte River Basin (Ortega 2013) and the Lower Arkansas River Basin (Ortega County occurrence for species in the series is provided on the following page. A checkmark does not suggest regular occurrence in a county; rather, it may indicate that the species has been observed at least once or may hypothetically occur. If a species is ch ecked, please refer to tl1e profile for more detailed information. Maps Colorado distribution maps were created using multiple credible sources. Maps were created for fish using Hydrologic Unit Codes, according to Habitat Scorecards are included with each species profile for the purpose of assessing habitat conditions before and after implementation of wetland habitat improvement projects. Please check the instructions for each species. In most cases, habitat variables should be assessed during late spring or early summer. Each habitat variable has assigned values for ranges of conditions; the variables and their assigned values are weighted according to importance of each variable as perceived by experts in the field. Getting Help Most variables can easily be measured or determined by anyone. In some cases, users may wish to solicit assistance from CPW staff, such as District Wildlife Managers, Wetland Focus Area Committees, or Private Land Biologists at Natural Resources Conservation Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Questions can also be addressed to the CPW Wetlands Program Coordinator, Brian Sullivan at (970) 472-4306 or brian.sullivan@state.co.us. COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Colorado Distribution by County QJ a:; -"' u C a:; C Adams Alamosa Arapahoe VI 0 a: iii QJ oi ro -~ -0 <( ca co -"' u ro ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; u QJ Archuleta ✓ Baca ✓ ..; Bent !... -~ E ro Colorado County Boulder ✓ Broomfield ..; Chaffee ✓ Cheyenne ✓ Clear Creek a. -"' u t: :0 QJ V, ✓ a5 ..; ..; ::, -0 Ol .!:: :a ..a C ...2 -0 0 0 3 V\ -.,, 3 u -0 .!!! :0 6, V, ro -~ 0 QJ QJ -' -' -' ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ..; ✓ ✓ ro C a:; > QJ C 0 ~ u Ol .c a. 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QJ 0 "' ..c: ✓ ✓ Vl Vl < :E :E < :E - QJ Q. V, ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J Park ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J Pit kin ..J ..J ..J Prowers ..J ✓ ..J ..J Pueblo ..J ✓ ..J Rio Blanco ✓ Rio Grande ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ Routt ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ Saguache ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J San Juan ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J Teller ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J Washington ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J Weld ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ Yuma ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ C: -6 QJ z a. a:: 0\ QJ ·.;; er: QJ -;::; 3 ""Cl ::, E 3: ..Q ~ ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ..J ·;;; 0 ..J ..J ..J .,, ~ ..J ..J Sum mit a. ""Cl ~ ..J ..J Sedgwick "' ✓ ..J t::'. ""Cl ..J ..J ✓ ""Cl 0 ~ ""Cl ..J ✓ ..J San Mig uel <ii ~ ..J ✓ ..J _g ✓ ..J Ouray 0\ ..J ..J ..J .;: 0 QJ u ""Cl ..J Otero u -~ ..J ..J Phillips E 1/1 ...I QJ ~ C:0 ""Cl"' ""Cl"' >-. C: 2::.,,"' .E E .,, ~ ai w VI .,, ..a "'C: .,,>-. ""Cl ""Cl 0 .0 J:i <ii ::c a: ~ "' ~ 1/1 -" > w ~ 0.. a: i:i: < cc~ z vi ::c 3: ..J Morgan ..J 0 ~ ..J Moffat 0\ "'C: .,, QJ .: ""Cl ~ -" .,,::, ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ..J ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ..J ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ ..J ..J ✓ ✓ ✓ *The black rail is not on t he official list of priority species, but is a species of interest in the Lower Arkansas River Basin. Citations Andrews, R., and R. Righ ter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. Hammerson, G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Co/orndo: A Colorado Field Guide. University Press of Colorado and Colorado Division of Wildlife. lloyle, S. 2006. North American river otter (LonIra ca11nde11sis): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Kingery. H. E.. Editor. 1998. Colorado breeding bird atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas II). 2015. Maps available on line at http://bird.atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. NDIS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 2014. On-line mapping tool formerly available through Natural Resource Ecology Laborato ry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 20 15. Colorado county birding. http://coloradocoun tybirding.org/ CountySelector.aspx. Grunau, L., R. Schorr, D. Green , B. Roscnlu nd, C. Pague, and J. Armstrong. 1999. Conservation and management plan for the Preble's meadow jumping mouse on the U. S. Air Force Academy. Colorado Natural Heritage Program unpublished report to the Natural Resources Branch. U.S. Air Force Academy. O rtega, C. P. 2013. Habitat quality for wetlanddependent priority wildlife species in the Lower South Platte River Basin, Colorado: species assessments and mon itoring protocol. Report prepared for Colorado Natural Program. Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8. Ortega. C. P. 2014. Habitat quality for wetlanddependent priority wildlife species in the Lower Arkansas River Basin, Colorado: species assessments and monitoring protocol. Report prepared for Colorado Natural Program, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8. Schorr, R. A. 200 I. Meadow jumping mice (Znp11s l,udsoni11s pre/,lei) on th e U.S. Air Force Academy, El Paso County. Colorado. Colorado Natural Heritage Program unpublished report to the Natural Resources Branch. U.S. Air Force Academy. Woodling. J. I985. Colorado's little fish: a guide to the minnows and other lesser known fishes in the state of Colorado. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY W ILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO W ETLANDS Species Distribution Range American bitterns breed from the mid United States through noriliern Canada. In Colorado, American bitterns occur in non-contiguous areas throughout ilie state and are most common in the San Luis Valley. The American bittern (Botaurus /entiginosus, Family Ardeidae) is a secretive, marsh bird found throughout Colorado at lower elevations. Species Description Identification The American bittern is a type of heron with a haunting low-frequency dunk-a-doo vocalization that sounds similar to a metal stake being driven into mud. Even with their large size (24-33 inches), they can be difficult to find because they are secretive, fairly solitary, and cryptic among emergent vegetation, especially dry vegetation. Preferred Habitats American bitterns occur primarily in emergent marshes. However, depending on size and condition of the habitat, they might be found in beaver ponds, oxbows, herbaceous riparian wetlands, warm water sloughs, wet meadows and reclaimed gravel pits. Diet American bitterns consume a wide variety of animal matter, such as amphibians, snakes, small mammals, fish, crayfish, crabs, insects, and spiders. They frequently feed at the interface of water and emergent vegetation. Conservation St atus American bitterns are listed as a Nongan1e Species of Management Concern by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. States list them as endangered, in1periled, at risk, species of special concern, or species of greatest conservation need. In Colorado, American bitterns are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 201 5). The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the population as decreasin g, but because of its extensive range and low rate of decline, it is con sidered ofleast concern. • Breed ing • Year..-ound • Wintering North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North America Online (http:/bna.birds.corncll.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (1992), Kingery ( 1998}, COBBAIi (201 5), and CFO (201 5). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Distance to disturbances buffer >220 yards Dominant vegetation tall, dense and robust emergent vegetation Height of herbaceous vegetation 3-6.5 feet Interspersion complex patterns that maximize interface between water and vegetation Landscape context proximity to other wetlands on the landscape Percent emergent cover 60-80% with high amount of edge Residual cover (litter) m ix of dead and live vegetation, with moderate litter depth Size of habitat large wetlands >25 acres Water depth (predominant) at least some open water 3-25 inches deep Water quality unpolluted water that will support preferred foods Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for American bitterns. Acknowledgements Pete Walker (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) and Colin Lee (Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory/ Colorado Parks and Wildlife/Natural Resources Conservation Service) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Hydrology • • • Preserve shallow wetlands interspersed with water. Avoid complete drawdowns to maintain food base. Throughout breeding season, maintain water levels between 3-25 inches. Avoid drawdowns before mid-August. Vegetation • • • • • Preserve wetlands with robust vegetation. Occasionally set back succession witl1 disking and/or drying. Maintain wide and dense vegetated buffer around emergent wetlands. Limit mowing, burning, and deferred grazing to once every 2-5 years, and avoid immediately around wetland, especially during breeding. Use no-tillage or minimal tillage practices; avoid conventional tillage. Contamination • Reduce application of agricultural chemicals and other toxins. Reduce siltation and eutrophication. Land Use • Restrict livestock grazing within 220 yards of wetland edge. Conservation • • Preserve wetlands greater than 25 acres, preferably larger. Maintain mosaic of wetlands in different successional stages. Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum ofNa1ural History, Denver, Colorado. Brown, M .. and J. J. Dinsmore. 1986. Marsh size and isolation for marsh bird management. Jo11rnal of Wildlife Management 50: 392-397. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Arias 11). 2015. Maps available online at hllp://bird. atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 2015. Colorado county birding. Maps available at hllp://coloradocounlybirding.org/ Count ySclector.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlitc Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondrcal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. lgl, C. M. Goldade. A. L. Zimmerman, and 8. R. Euliss. 2003. Effects of managemenl practices on grassland birds: American Bittern. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Cen1er, Jamestown, North Dakota. Gibbs,). P., and S. M. Melvin. 1992. American Bittern. In Migratory nongame birds of management concern in the northeastern United States. K. Schneider and D. Pence, Eds. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Newton Corner, Massachusetts. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Br.:eding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Lowther, P., A. F. Poole, J. P. Gibbs, S. Melvin, and F. A. Reid. 2009. American Bittern (Botaurus /entiginos11s). The Birds of North America No. 018. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Rehm, E. M., and G. A. Baldassarre. 2007. The influence of interspersion on marsh bird abundance in New York. Wilson /011rnal of Ornitliology 119: 648-654. Wiggins, D.A. 2006. American Billern (Bota11rus lentiginosus): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. COLORADO PARKS & W ILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for American Bitterns (v. Jan 2016) Assessment of habitat before and after restoration or management actions Project Name:_ __ _ _ _ __________ _______ ____ Date(s) of Assessment: ____ __ _ _ _ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Size of habitat >25 acres 10.8 > 12 - 25 acres 7.2 2.5 - 12 acres 3.6 Residual cover (litter) depth > 15 - 25 inches 10.3 >8 - 15 inches OR >25 - 40 inches 6.8 4-8 inches 3.4 Percent of water with emergent vegetation >60-80% 10.3 >30 - 60% OR >80 - 100% 6.8 15 - 30% 3.4 Water quality No visual evidence of turbidity or other pollutants 10.3 Some turbidity or presence of other pollutants, but limited to sma ll and localized areas within the wetland. Water may be slight ly clo udy. 6.8 Wat er is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is still visible. Note: If the sheen breaks apart when you run your finger through it, it is a natural bacterial process and not water pollution. 3.4 Dominant vegetation Robust wetland herbaceous plants (e.g., cattail, bulrush, reedgrass) OR tall sedges >8 inches 10.3 Low sedges, rushes, or grasses <8 inches 6.8 An nual and perennial forbs OR open willows and shrubs 3.4 Height of herbaceous vegetation > 3 - 6.5 feet 9.7 > 1.5 - 3 feet 6.5 1 - 1.5 feet OR >6.5 feet 3.2 Distance to developed areas (urban or industrial land uses) > 250 yards 9.7 > 100 - 250 yards 6.5 50 - 100 yards 3.2 Interspersion B or C or D 9.7 E 3.2 0 g @ @ 0 A Interspersion patterns refer to the diagram (sti ppled = water, solid = vegetation) B C E D . Percent of wetland with some water >70 - 100% 9.7 >50 - 70% 6.5 10- 50% 3.2 Predominant depth of water 9.2 2 - 8 inches >8 - 40 inches 6.1 <2 inches or >40 - 50 inches 3.1 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Bald eagles live almost entirely within North America. Their distribution is highly scattered throughout North America and in Colorado. Up-to-date maps of their distribution in Colorado are unavailable due to their sensitive status. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus, Family Accipitridae) prefer tall, mature trees for perching and nesting. From these perches, they watch for fish or other small prey. Species Description Identification O ur national emblem , the bald eagle, is distinguished by its white head and tail contrasting with a dark brown body in its full adult form. Immature bald eagles (first four years) may have light or brown heads and tails; they can best be distinguished from immature golden eagles by the light leading edge of the wing contrasting with darker flight feathers. Preferred Habitats The most important wetland habitats for bald eagles are those connected with large bodies of water, such as rivers and reservoirs. Bald eagles use tall trees and dead snags along tl1e edge of waterbodies to perch and watch for prey. Diet Bald eagles are opportunistic foragers. They prefer fish when available, but also consume small mammals and birds, especially during winter. Conservation Status The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed bald eagles from the Federal list of endangered species in 2007 (USFWS 2007). In Colorado, bald eagles are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). l11e number of bald eagle pairs breeding in Colorado increased from 14 pairs during Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas I ( 1987-1994) to 148 pairs during Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas II (2007- 2011). - Breeding Possible occurence North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North America Online (http:/bna.birds.corncll.cdu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (I992), Kingery ( 1998), COB· BAIi (20 15), and CFO (20 15). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 11 92 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Distance between tall trees and open water with fish the closer the better, best within 1 mile Distance from human disturbance varies with locatio n; 100 to >500 yards Dominant vegetation open canopy and easy-to-access large trees with open horizontal branches Tree size mature, tall, large-d iameter trees for perching and nesting Management Recommendations Acknowledgements Chase Taylor (Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wilcllife priority wetland-dependent wilcllife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for bald eagles. Suggested Reading and Citations Hydrology • Maintain water levels to maximize prey availability and foraging. • Manage for a diversity of fish. Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. Berry, M. E., C. E. Bock, and S. L. Haire. 1998. Abundance of diurnal raptors on open space grasslands in an urbanized landscape. Condor 100: 601-608. Vegetation • Thin dense forests (particularly in the vicinity of reservoirs), burn by prescription, and selectively harvest to achieve desired open canopy. • Avoid clearcutting. • Manage for age diversity and species diversity. • Protect existing tall, large-diameter trees, including open-top trees and snags. • Promote growth of trees in areas where lacking. • Create super-canopy trees (much taller than the rest) by cutting. • Revegetate with trees where appropriate. • Create or protect openings that are ~8.5 acres within 2 miles of shoreline; maintain these openings with sparsely-spaced roosting and/or nesting trees. Caton, E. L., B. R. McClelland, D. A. Patterson, and R. E. Yates. 1992. Characteristics of foraging perches used by breeding bald eagles in Montana. Wilson Bulletin 104: 136-142. Chester, D. N., F. Stauffer, T. J. Smith, D. R. Luukkonen, and J. D. Fraser. 1990. Habitat use by nonbreeding bald eagles in North Carolina. Journal of Wildlife Management 54: 223-234. COBBAll (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas II). 20 I 5. Maps available online at http://bird. atlasing.org/Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 2015. Colorado county birding. Maps available at http://coloradocountybirding.org/ CountySelector.aspx. Contamination • Reduce contaminants. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Land Use • Reduce visual contact witl1 disturbance using vegetation strips 8-100 yards wide. • Minimize development along shorelines. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Conservation • Preserve undeveloped shores and adjacent forests. • Maintain mosaic of wetlands in different successional stages. Grubb, T. G., and R. M. King. 1991. Assessing human disturbance of breeding bald eagles with classification tree models. Journal of Wildlife Management 55: 500-511. USFWS. 2007. Bald eagle fact sheet: natural history, ecology, and history of recovery. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. ~ u: ~ ~ u: ~ oi "'"' "'0"' "' ~0 ::. !2 0 ~ ~ ~ COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Bald Eagles (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ __ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Open canopy with dominant snag or tall trees with open horizontal branches 18.5 Distance to permanent open water capable of supporting fish from a live or dead tree >30 feet tall <55 yards 17.5 55 ya rds - 1 mile 11.7 >1 - 2 miles 5.8 Percent total canopy cover that is >6.5 feet 10 - 40% 17.5 >40 - 60% 11.7 >60 - 100% 5.8 Height of tallest tree within 100 yards of focal area >50 feet 17.5 >30-S0feet 11 .7 15 - 30 feet 5.8 Distance from development >0.3 mile 0.2 - 0.3 miles 10.3 100 yards - 0.2 miles 3.4 6.8 Apparent water depth <20 feet deep within 100 yards of shore 14.5 <20 feet deep within 50 yards from shore but deeper beyond 9.7 >20 feet deep within SO yards from shore 4.8 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Black rails are widely, but sparsely, distributed through North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. In Colorado, they are known from five counties: Bent, Lincoln, Otero, Prowers, and Pueblo. Black rails (Lateral/us jamaicensis, Family Rallidae) are both the smallest and most secretive rails in North America. They hide within dense marsh vegetation. Species Description Identification Secretive amongst dense vegetation and no larger than a sparrow (about 6 inches long), black rails are difficult to detect in the field. Their gravely kee-kee-deer song and their haunting kookaburra-like call are heard more at night than during the day. Preferred Habitats Black rails rely most frequently on dense emergent marshes, including beaver ponds. Diet From limited knowledge, the diet of black rails appears to consist primarily of invertebrates and some seeds. ■ Breeding Conservation Status Black rails appear to have declined over the last century, due almost entirely to habitat loss and destruction. They are listed as endangered in Arizona, threatened in California, and near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Though they are not listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Colorado (CPW 2015), they are locally important in the Lower Arkansas River Basin. Year-round • .. • Local breeding/summer records ••• Year-round records .. Local winter rocords • Isolated breeding/summer records lsolaled winter records Possible occurence Nonh America map used by permission from ComeU Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North America Online (lmp:/bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter ( 1992), Kingery (1998), COBBAIi (201 5), and CFO (2015). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Depth of water and water fluctuations <1.2 inches water with little fl uctuation Dominant vegetatio n cattails, rushes, sedges, and grasses; in Colorado, occupied habitats are dominated by cattails Herbaceous cover height tall vegetation, presumably fo r protection Interspersio n interspersion patterns favo ring high vegetation density Percent of emergent vegetation dense or thick Residua l cover (litter) depth mixture of new and residual growth Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for black rails. Hydrology • Reduce fluctuations of water levels through the nesting season to maintain moist soil or shallow water. • Improve water control devices where needed. • Impoundments should provide sloping shoreline that provides 25% shallow water averaging 1 inch. Vegetation • Maintain emergent vegetation. Contamination • Reduce contaminants where needed. Conservation • Reduce h abitat destruction. • Manage wetlands on regional scale. Acknowledgemen ts Tony Leuker ing (formerly with Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Alias 11). 2015. Maps available on line at h11p://bird. atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 201 5. Colorado county birding. Maps available at hllp://coloradocountybirding.org/ CountySelector.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 201 5. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Eddleman, W. R., R. E. Flores, and M. Legare. 1994. Black rail (Latem//11s jamaice,isis). The Birds of North America No. 123. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Flores, R. E., and W. R, Eddleman. 1993. Nesting biology of the California black rail in southwestern Arizona. Western Birds 24:8 1-88. Flores, R. E., and W. R, Eddleman. 1995. California black rail use of habitat in southwestern Ariwna. /011rnnl of Wildlife Management 59:357-363. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Legare, M. L., and W.R. Eddleman. 200 1. Home range size, nest-site selection and nesting success of black rails in Plorida. Journal of Field Ornithology 72: 170- 177. Tsao, D. C., J. Y. Takckawa, I. Woo, J. L. Yee, and J. G. Evens. 2009. I Jome range, habitat selection, and movements of California black rails at tidal marshes at San Francisco Bay, California. Condor 111:599-610. COLORADO PAR.KS & WILDLI FE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 802 16 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Black Rails (v. Jan 2016) Project Name: ___ __ _ _____________________ Date(s) of Assessment: _________ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Value Key habitat variable and conditions Before Dominant vegetation Robust wet land herbs (cattails, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.), Tall sedges, rushes, and grasses 17.2 Water depth and hydrology 17.2 <1.2 inch water and little to no water fluctuation or moist soil throughout Percent of emergent vegetation >90 - 100% 17.2 >80-90% 11.5 70-80% 5.7 Height of emergent vegetation Open (little to no vegetation) 18.5 Residual cover depth >20 - 80 inches 16.4 > 12 - 20 inches 10.9 8- 12 inches 5.5 Interspersion 15.6 E D 10.3 0 g B A Interspersion patterns refer to the above diagram (stippled = water, solid = vegetation) . Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns C D (9 @ E 0 After �Several species are included in the Dabbling Duck guild. Top row from left: American wigeon (Anos americana), blue-winged teal (A. discors), cinnamon teal. (A. cyanoptera). Second row from left: gadwall (A. strepera), green-winged teal (A. crecca), mallard (A. p/atyrhynchos). Bottom: northern pintail (A. acuta). Species Description Preferred Habitats The most important wetland habitats for dabbling ducks during spring and fall migration include beaver ponds, emergent marshes, warm water sloughs, moist soil units, wet meadows, and herbaceous riparian wetlands. During winter, most small wetlands freeze and ducks congregate in deeper water, such as open river channels, warm water sloughs, reservoirs, and deep gravel pits, or on open sandbars. During the breeding season, most dabbling ducks nest in upland vegetation. Diet Most dabbling ducks consume far more invertebrates during the breeding season compared with other times of year. During non-breeding seasons, the diet varies according to species but includes seeds, aquatic vegetation, tubers, and crop grains. Conservation Status The population status diffe rs among species. All ducks in this guild are federally protected game birds in the United States, Can ada, and Mexico. Colorado Parks and Wildlife designated these ducks as priorily species because they provide valuable hunting and viewing opportunities. Species Distribution Range The ducks in this guild are widely distributed. With the exception of cinnamon teal, all have a distribution beyond the Americas. TI1ey are found throughout most of Colorado during at least part of the year. In general, outside of winter, the greatest concentrations include the San Luis Valley, North Park, and the Front Range within the South Platte River Basin. COLORADO PARKS & W1LDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation sedges, rushes, grasses, forbs, and aquatic vegetation Density of plants desirable to ducks abundant (desireable plants are often seed bearing species such as pondweeds, dock, sedges, and some grasses) Emergent vegetation within open water 21-50% for diurnal use 61-80% for nocturnal use Interspersion complex patterns that maximize interface between water and vegetation Landscape context proximity to other wetlands on the landscape Size of habitat >20 acres for wet meadows >2 acres for other wetlands excluding reservoirs Submergent vegetation 31-60% Water depth (predominant) 4-12 inches Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for dabbling ducks. Hydrology • Maintain water depths 4-12 inches. • Time drawdowns in summer to coincide with desired vegetation. • Drawdown gradually for the greatest diversity of vegetation. • Re-flood in late summer or early fall for fall migrants. Vegetation • Consider establishing submerged aquatic vegetation. • Consider revegetating with native plants during drawdown if devoid of vegetation for long periods. • Use disturbance techniques to set back succession. • Control undesirable vegetation, especially robust plants, exotics, and woody vegetation. • Control woody vegetation at young age. • Create 50:50 interspersion or hemimarsh conditions (l:l open water to emergent vegetation). • Manage for diversity of native plants. • Use drawdowns to accelerate decomposition. Land Use/ Other Limit time of grazing and maintain appropriate stocking rate; where possible, protect wetland with fencing. Acknowledgements Brian Sullivan (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Austin, J. E., and M. R. Miller. 1995. Northern pintail (A11as awta). The Birds o f North America No. 163. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Drilling, N., R. Titman, and P. Mckinney. 2002. Mallard (Anas platyr/1y11cl10s). The Birds of North America No. 658. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Gammonley. J. H. 1996. Cinnamon teal (Anas cya11optera). The Birds of North America No. 209. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Johnson, K. 1995. Green-winged teal (/\nas crecca). The Birds of North America No. 193. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Leschack, C. R., S. K. McKnight, and G. R. Hepp. 1997. Gadwall (/\11as strepcra). The Birds of North America No. 283. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Mowbray, T. I 999. American wigeon (/\11as americana). The Birds of North America No. 40 I. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Naugle, D. E., R. R. Johnson, M. E. Estey. and K. F. Higgins. 2001. A landscape approach to conserving wetland bird habitat in the prairie pothole region of eastern South Dakota. Wetlands 21:1-17. Rohwer, F. C., W. P. Johnson, and E. R. Loos. 2002. Blue-winged teal (A 11as discors). The Birds of North America No. 625. CorneU Lab of Ornithology. Conservation • Minimize disturbance by humans. • Control for burrowing mammals only if needed to maintain integrity oflevees or to avoid excessive vegetation removal or obstructions. • Control fish that cause turbidity, e.g., carp. • Provide diversity through wetland complexes on landscape. COLORADO PARKS &WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Dabbling Ducks (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _______________ _ _ __ _ ______ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Emergent Wetlands, Playas, and Impoundments, (2) Wet Meadows, or (3) Sandbars. Enter one value that best describes migratory (spring/fall) conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Emergent Wetlands, Playas, and Impoundments Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Sedges, rushes, grasses, forbs, and aquatic vegetation 18.7 Robust wetland herbs (cattail, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.) 12.5 Open willows / shrubs, Closed ca nopy trees (>50% cover) 6.2 Percent of emergent vegetation within water 21 - 50% 18.7 5 - 20% 12.5 50 - 100% 6.2 Predominant depth of water 4-12 inches 18.7 > 12 - 25 inches 12.5 >25 - 40 inches 6.2 Percent submergent vegetation >30 - 60% 17.8 > 10 - 30% 11 .8 0 - 10% 5.9 Interspersion C or D 15.0 B 10.0 A or E 5.0 A Interspersion patterns refer t o the above diagram (sti pp led = w ater, solid= vegetation) Size of habitat B 0 0 >2 acres C D E (9 ~ 0 11.1 >0.5 - 2 acres 7.5 0.25 - 0.5 acres 3.7 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Dabbling Ducks (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:. _________________ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ __ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Emergent Wetlands, Playas, and Impoundments, (2) Wet Meadows, or (3) Sandbars. Enter one value that best describes migratory (spring/fall) conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Wet Meadows (natural or irrigation-influenced) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Sedges, rushes, grasses, forbs, and aquatic vegetation 28.2 Robust wetland herbs (cattail, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.) 18.8 Open willows/ shrubs, Closed canopy trees (>50% cover) 9.4 Percent of herbaceous vegetation that is too dense for a duck to move through 0-20% 28.2 >20-50% 18.8 >50 - 80% 9.4 Height of herbaceous vegetation 8- 20 inches 26.7 >20 - 80 inches 17.8 >80 inches 8.9 Size of habitat >20 acres 16.9 >5 - 20 acres 11.3 2.5 - 5 acres 5.6 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Dabbling Ducks (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:.______ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Emergent Wetlands, Playas, and Impoundments, (2) Wet Meadows, or (3) Sandbars. Enter one value that best describes migratory (spring/fall) conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Sandbars Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Sedges, rushes, grasses, forbs, and aquatic vegetation 25.6 Robust wetland herbs (cattail, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.) 17.1 Open willows / shrubs, Closed canopy t rees (>50% cover) 8.5 Percent of herbaceous vegetation that is too dense for a duck to move through 0- 20% 25.6 >20-50% 17.1 >50-80% 8.5 Percent of herbace ous vegetation that is easy for a duck to move through 0 - 30% 25.6 >30 - 60% 17.1 >60 - 100% 8.5 Percent cover of woody vegetation >6.6 feet (2 meters) in height 0-20% 23.2 >20- 40% 15.4 7.7 >40 - 100% Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALIT Y FOR PRIORIT Y WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Least terns range extensively along coasts and major rivers in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. In Colorado, least terns breed only in the Lower Arkansas River Basin. During migration, they occasionally occw- in the Lower South Platte River Basin, and less frequently on the west slope. a~\1 The least tern (Sternula albifrons, FamilyLaridae) is a small, ground nesting bird that nests in open, sandy soil.They are rare throughout their range, including in Colorado. Species Description Identification Diet At 8-9 inches in length and slightly smaller than an American robin, the least tern is the smallest tern of North America. Their white forehead contrasting with a black cap is easily seen in flight. They have a yellow bill tipped in black. The diet of least terns consists primarily of small (1-4 inches long), slender(½ inch) fish that swim near the surface. To a lesser degree, they also feed on aquatic invertebrates. Preferred Habitat s Interior least terns nest on sandy shores of reservoirs and gravel pits; although not usually considered wetlands, these habitats are often adjacent to or associated with wetlands along the shores. Sandbars, particularly along the Arkansas River, represent potential nesting habitat, however, the regulation of water probably precludes least terns from successfully nesting. They forage in streams, reservoirs, marshes, gravel pits, and other impounded wetlands. Conservation Status The interior population is Federally listed as endangered. In Colorado, least terns are listed as endanged and a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). During the second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (2007-2011), least terns were observed and confirmed breeding in only two priority blocks: Adobe Creek Reservoir and just south of Neesopah and Neegronda Reservoirs. During the previous Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (1987-1994), they had also been confirmed as breeders in the vicinity of Neenoshe Reservoir. North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North America Online (hnp:/bna.birds.comeU.cdu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (1992), Kingery ( I998), COBBA II (20 I5), and CFO (20 I 5). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation open view with little to no vegetation Height of vegetation < 6 inches Location of nesting habitat patch next to water with an unobstructed view Nesting substrate sand or fine gravel, free from silt and/or clay Percent canopy cover none Percent herbaceous cover 0-5% Size of nesting habitat if other ideal conditions met > 0.2 acres Acknowledgements Dr. Eileen Kirsch (U. S. Geological Service) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Size of unvegetated patch on vegetated bar > 1 acre Suggested Reading and Citations Water depth at nest sites 0 inches Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. Woody debris on ground presence of woody debris near nests (not well understood) COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas 11). 20 15. Maps available on line at http://bird. atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A nwnber of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for least terns. Hydrology/ Substrate • Manage and time flows to benefit habitat (scouring) while minimizing nesting mortality. Create sand and gravel river islands. Control vegetation by flooding after breeding and lower water level prior to arrival in spring. Add sand to islands as needed. Add small amount of woody debris where needed. Vegetation • Control vegetation to create or maintain sparse vegetation. Land Use • Curtail cattle grazing near potential nesting sites. Conservation Provide exclosures/enclosures or electric fencing where needed to protect from predators. Close beaches to human use during breeding season. Create educational signage to protect breeding birds from human disturbance. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 201 5. Colorado county birding. Maps available at http://coloradocountybirding.org/ CountySelecLor.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Ki ngery, H. E.. Editor. 1998. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Alias Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Kirsch, E. M. 1996. Habitat selection and productivity of least terns on the Lower Platte River, Nebraska. Wildlife Monograpl,s I 32: 3-48. Kirsch, E. M .. and/. G. Sidle. I 999. Status o f the interior population of least tern. Journal of Wildlife Management 63: 470-483. Koenen. M. T., D. M. Leslie, /r., and M. Grcgorr1996. Habitat changes success of artificial nests on an alkaline salt flat. Wilson B11/leti11 108: 292-301. Siulc, J. G., and E. M. Kirsch. J 993. Least tern and piping plover nesting at sand pits in Nebraska. Colonial Waterbirds I 6: I39-148. Sidle, ). G., and W. F. Harrison. I 990. Recovery plan for the interior population o f the least tern Sterna a11tillaru111. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Sidle, /. G., D. E. Carlson, E. M. Kirsch, and J. J. Dinan. I992. Flooding: mortality and habitat renewal for least terns and piping plovers. 1992. Colonial Waterbirds 15: I32-136. Thompson, B. C., J. A. Jackson, ). Burger, L. A. Hill, E. M. Kirsch, and J. L. Atwood. 1997. Least tern (Stern 11/a a11tillarum). llte Birds of North America No. 290. Cornell Lab of O rnithology. COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-11 92 • cpw.state.co. us �Habitat Scorecard for Least Terns (v. Jan 201 6) Project Name:___________________________ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Nesting (e.g., sandbars, reservoir edges, gravel pits) or (2) Foraging (e.g., emergent marshes, ponds, stream channels, warm water sloughs). Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Nesting Habitat (e.g. sandbars, reservoir edges, gravel pit s) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Open bare ground 11.8 Low grass 3.9 Location: Juxtaposition of habitat patch to water Totally surrounded by water 11.8 Partially connected and adjacent to water 7.9 Not adj acent to water 3.9 Location: Distance with unobstructed view (from appropriate patch) >275 yards 11.8 > 100 - 275 yards 7.9 SO - 100 yards 3.9 Percent total canopy cover 6.6 feet NO canopy cover > 6.6 feet 11.8 Substrate > 75% coarse and/or fine sand 11.3 Size of habitat patch (Answer for ONLY one, using best option) Size of entirely unvegetated bar or island >0.25 acre 10.7 >0.06 - 0.25 acre 7.1 0.02 - 0.06 acre (~900 sq feet- ~2,500 sq feet) 3.6 Size of unvegetated patch on otherwise vegetated bar or island > 1 acre 10.7 0.5 - 1 acre 7.1 0.25 - 0.5 acre 3.6 Predominant water depth No water 10.7 Vegetation height <6 inches 9.4 6-20 inches 3.1 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Least Terns (v.Jan 2016) Project Nam e:_ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Nesting (e.g., sandbars, reservoirs, and gravel pits) or (2) Foraging (e.g., emergent marshes, ponds, stream channels, warm water sloughs). Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Foraging Habitat (e.g. emergent marshes, ponds, stream channels, warm water sloughs} Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Interspersion Aor B 27.1 C 18.0 D 9.0 A Interspersion patterns refer to the above diagram (stippled = water, solid = vegetation) Dominant vegetation B C D E 0 0 ® @ 0 Open water (no vegetation) 24.3 Sparse emergent vegetation 16.2 Presence of small fish Abundant small fish 1 - 4 inches 24.3 Abundant aquatic invertebrat es 16.2 Distance to potential nesting habitat <3 miles 24.3 3-6 miles 16.2 >6- 9 miles 8.1 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range The patchy distribution of Lewis's woodpecker is restricted to western North America, from southern New Mexico to mid British Columbia and from California to eastern Colorado. In Colorado, they can occur almost anywhere and have been known to breed in well over half of Colorado's counties. Lewis's woodpeckers (Melanerpes lewis, Family Picidae) nest in open cottonwood or ponderosa pine stands and hunt insect in flight. Species Description Identification Named after the explorer Meriwether Lewis, Lewis's woodpeckers differ from most other woodpeckers in their foraging habits, including catching insects in flight. They are approximately 11 inches long with hefty bodies. Their backs and wings are a greenish black and bellies a pinkish to salmon rose. Their green color is due to reflection from feather structure rather than from green pigment; therefore, the intensity of green varies with lighting, and they can appear almost black in poor lighting. Preferred Habitats Cottonwood gallery forest is the most important wetland type used by Lewis's woodpeckers. However, they also use riparian shrub wetlands and wet meadows, and they forage over stream channels. Diet Lewis's woodpeckers forage opportunistically on locally abundant insects, including outbreaks in burned forests and hatches over water and wet meadows. During summer months, they feed primarily on insects; in fall and winter, they switch to feeding heavily on mast fruits (especially acorns) and agricultural grains or waste. Conservation Status Almost all populations of Lewis's woodpeckers have declined. The most recent Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (COBBA 2007-2011) indicates that they were observed in 36% fewer blocks than during the first COBBA {1987-1994). In Colorado, Lewis's woodpeckers are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need {CPW2015). ■ Wintering - Breeding Possible occurence North America map used by pennission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North America O nline (h11p:/bna.birds.corneU.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter ( 1992), Kingery ( 1998), COBBA 11 (2015), and CFO (2015). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 802 16 • (303) 297-1 192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Clusters of large-diameter trees 5-15 tree clusters Dominant vegetation open canopy with snags (standing dead trees) and som e shrub or brushy layer Height of trees >50 feet Percent bare ground very little (<5%) Percent cover of canopy trees prefer open canopy > 15-30% Percent mowed or fallow fields within 100 yards >40% Percent of mast fruits (e.g., acorns) or grain (e.g., corn) within 100 yards >35% Percent shrub and/or brushy layer prefer some shrub/brush 10-33% ttl ~ Size of habitat >15 acres 0 ffi :a: 0 f;j :, 8 Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for Lewis's woodpeckers. Hydrology • Manage stream flow to encourage cottonwood regeneration. Vegetation • Retain at least 50% of snags >9 inches in diameter during post-fire salvage logging. • Retain large snags. • Protect dumps of large trees and snags. Encourage regeneration of cottonwoods/snags in riparian zones. • Maintain open forests. • Maintain understory shrub community. Pesticides • Reduce pesticide exposure. Land Use • Lin1it browsing by livestock. Silviculture • Maintain six or more snags per acre. • Where snags are unavailable, consider topping trees. • Provide no-logging buffer zone to protect nesting habitat. ~ Acknowledgements Dr. Kerry Vierling (Department of Fish and Wildlife Science, University of Idaho) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and C itations Abele, S. C., V. A. Gaines, and 0. Garton. 2004. Lewis"s woodpecker (Mela11erpes lewis): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. Bock, C. E., H. H. Hadow, and P. Somers. I 971. Relations between Lewis' and red-headed woodpeckers in southeastern Colorado. Wilson Bulletin 83: 237-248. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas 11). 20 15. Maps available online at http://bird. atlasing.org/Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 2015. Colorado county birding. Maps available at http://coloradocountybirding.org/ CountySelector.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Gebauer, M. 2004. Lewis's woodpecker, Mc/a11crpes lewis. Accounts and Measures for Managing Identified Wildlife 2004: 1- 12. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Breedi11g lJird Alias. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division o f Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Saab, V. A.. and J. G. Dudley. I 998. Responses of cavity-nesting birds to stand-replacement fire and salvage logging in ponderosa pine/ Douglas-fir forests of southwestern Idaho. RMRS-RP-11. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Ogden, Utah. Saab, V. A.. R. E. Russell, and J. G. Dudley. 2007. Nest densities of cavity-nesting birds in relat ion to postfire salvage logging and time since wildfire. Condor 109: 97-108. Vierling, K. T., V. A. Saab, and B. W. Tobalske. 20 I 3. Lewis's woodpecker (Mehmerpes lewi.,). 11,e Birds of North America No. 284. Cornell Lab of O rnithology. License for Francesco Veronesi photo: https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/ deed.en COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Lewis's Woodpeckers (v. Jan 201 6) Project Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _______________ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-sum mer conditions of each h abitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Open canopy with snags 15.9 Tree height >50 feet 15.9 >35 - 50 feet 10.6 15 - 35 feet 5.3 Percent cover of dominant canopy trees >15-30% 14.4 >30 - 50% 9.6 5 - 15% OR >50 - 80% 4.8 Percent shrub or brush layer 10- 33% 12.6 >33 - 50% 8.4 >50% 4.2 Percent bare ground 0-5% 12.6 >5 - 15% >15 - 35% 4.2 8.4 Number of mature tree clusters 5 - 15 clusters 11.2 3 - 4 clusters 7.4 1 - 2 clusters 3.7 Size of habitat > 15 acres (>6 ha) 6.2 >2- 15 acres (>2-6 ha) 4.1 1.2 - 5 acres (0.5 - 2 ha) 2.1 Percent mowed or fallow fields within 100 yards >40- 100% 6.2 20-40% 4.1 <20% 2.1 Percent mast fruits (e.g., acorns) or grain (e.g., corn) within 100 yards >35- 100% 5.6 20-35% 3.7 <20% 1.9 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Long-billed curlews breed in the western United States, including eastern Colorado, and in southwestern Canada. During migration, long-billed curlews occur sporadically in western Colorado and regularly throughout eastern Colorado. Long-billed curlews (Numenius americanus, Family Sco/opacidae) have a distinctive long bill that curves downward. They are can be found near playas and ponds in eastern Colorado. Species Description Identification The long-billed curlew, at 20-26 inches in length, is the largest shorebird in North America. Their primitivesounding curlee vocalizations are considered a harbinger of spring. Th eir down-curved, sickle-shaped bill is the largest among shorebirds and inspired their genus name, Numenius, derived from the Greek word, noumenios, meaning of the new crescent moon. Preferred Habitats Long-billed curlews are considered a grassland species, but they are rarely observed far from water. In Colorado, they are usually associated with ponds, reservoirs, playas, and wet meadows. Diet Long-billed curlews probe or peck for invertebrates, including mollusks, worms, crustaceans, spiders, and insects, particularly grasshoppers. They also eat some vertebrate species, including fish, amphibians, and bird eggs/nestlings. Conservation Status Populations oflong-billed curlews have experienced overall declines in many areas, especially throughout the eastern United States, due primarily to habitat loss and historic over-hunting. In Colorado, long-billed curlews are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 201 5). The Breeding Bird Survey indicates a significant population decline in Colorado, and the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas indicates a decrease in distribution. Confirmed breeding observations oflong-billed curlews were reported in ~60% fewer priority blocks during the second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (2007-2011) compared to the first atlas (1 987-1994). - Breeding Possible occurance North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab ofOrnithology's Birds of North America Oruine (http:/bna.birds.cornell.cdu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (1992), Kingery ( 1998), COBBAil (2015), and CFO (2015). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominan t vegetation short grasses, sedges, and short annual forbs Height of herbaceous vegetation 8-20 inches Landscape context mosaic of short grasslands, meadows, agricultural fields, and wetlands Percent cover of emergent vegetation 0-33% Size of habitat >50 acres Water depth in wet meadows 0 or hummocks Water depth in wetlands 0-6 inches Management Recommendations Acknowledgements Colin lee (Rocky Mountain Bird O bservatory/ Colorado Parks and Wildlife/ Natural Resources Conservation Service) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for long-billed curlews. Suggested Reading and Citations Vegetation Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Rirds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. • • • • • • Create and maintain diversity of vegetation within wet meadows by mowing, rotational burning, and/or grazing as appropriate. Remove residual vegetation. Control tall d ense vegetation. Use periodic prescribed burns to control tall vegetation. Control woody plants and shrubs within appropriate grasslands. Control height of vegetation through appropriate livestock grazing. Use livestock grazing to maximize low vegetation but reduce grazing intensity during breeding period to reduce trampling effects. Pesticides • • Avoid controlling grasshoppers with pesticides. Reduce use of herbicides on grasslands. Conservation • • Protect breeding birds from human disturbance. Create 220-325-yard buffers around suitable habitat. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas 11). 20 15. Maps available online al hllp://bird. atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 20 15. Colorado county bird ing. Maps available al http://coloradocou ntybirding.o rg/ Count ySclcctor.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colo rado. Denver, Colo rado. Dark-Smiley, D. N., and D. A. Keinath. 2004. Species assessment for long-billed curlew (Nwnenius nmeriw 1111s) in Wyoming. Repo rt to Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming State Office, Cheyenne, Wyoming. Dechant, J. A., M. l. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, l. D. lgl, C. M. Goldade, P. A. Rabie, and B. R. Euliss. 2003. Effects o f management practices on grassland birds: long-billed curlew. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. Dugger, B. D., and K. M. Dugger. 2002. longbilled curlew (N11111e11it1s nmerica1111s). The Birds of North America No. 628. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Breedi11g Rird A/Ins. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Mueller, J. 2000. Long-billed curlew (Nt1111e11it1s nmericnnus). Fish and Wildlife Habitat Management Leaflet, Number 7. Natural Resources Conservation Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture. Pampush, G. J., and R. G. Anthony. 1993. Nest success, habitat utilization and nest-site selection of long-billed curlews in the Columbia Basin, Oregon. Condor 95:957-967. :,: "'..: Cl :a: -< "':.: i3 >:: "'"'u o(.:, - "'"'-< :.: 0 .. :,: ~ Saalfeld, S. T., W. C. Conway, D. A. Haukos, M. Rice, S. l. Jones, and S. D. Fellows. 2010. Multiscale habitat selection by long-billed curlews (N11111eni11s nmerica1111s) breeding in the United Stales. Waterbirds 33: 148- 161. Scdg wick, J. A. 2006. l ong-billed curlew (Nwnenius nrnericanus): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Linccnse for Michael Baird photo: Im ps:// crcativccommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.cn COLORADO PARKS &WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Long-billed Curlews (v.Jan 2016) Project Name: _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Playas or other wetlands or (2) Wet Meadows. Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Playas or Other Wetlands Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Percent of water with emergent vegetation 0-33% 25.2 >33 -50% 16.8 >50- 70% 8.4 Predominant depth of water 0-6 inches 25.2 >6- 7 inches 16.8 >7 - 8 inches 8.4 Size of habitat > 50 acres 19.9 > 12 -50 acres 13.3 7- 12 acres 6.6 Height of herbaceous vegetation 8-20 inches 19.9 >20 -40 inches 13.3 >40 inches 6.6 Dominant vegetation Low grasses <8 inches 9.8 Low sedges, rushes <8 inches OR Annua l or perennial forbs 6.5 Tall grasses >8 inches 3.3 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Long-billed Curlews (v. Jan 201 6) Project Name: _ _ __ _____________ __________ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Playas or other wetlands or (2) Wet Meadows. Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Wet Meadows Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Height herbaceous cover 8 - 20 inches >20 - 40 inches 28.7 19.1 >40 inches 9.6 Predominant depth of water 0 o r hum mocks 28.7 Size of habitat >50 acres 21.4 > 12 - 50 acres 14.3 7 - 12 acres 7.2 Percent of herbaceaous vegetation t hat is too dense or hard for animal movement 0 - 20% 11.2 >20-50% 7.4 > 50-80% 3.7 Dominant vegetation Low grasses <8 inches 10.0 Low sedges, rushes <8 inches OR Annual or perennial forbs 6.7 Tall grasses >8 inches 3.3 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Piping plovers have a disjointed, narrow distribution restricted to North America with rare records in Ecuador. They occur in eastern Colorado as very rare migrants and have been known to nest at a few reservoirs: Adobe Creek, John Martin, Neegronda, and Neeskah. The piping plover (Charadrius melodus, Family Charadriidae) is a rare shorebird that nests on sparsely vegetated, often sandy or rocky beaches. Species Description Identification The piping plover is a small shorebird (about 7 inches long). During the breeding season, the piping plover has a single black neck band and short black-tipped orange bill. The piping plover makes a distinctive high -pitched pipe-pipe-pipe-pipe-pipe... call, emitted during flight. Other common vocalizations include a rattling threat call (bee, bee, bee... ) and an alarm call (woo-up, woo-up or kee-ah kee-ah). Preferred Habitats In Colorado, piping plovers use sparsely-vegetated sandy shores of reservoirs and gravel pits where they nest directly on the ground in simple scrapes that may or may not be lined with small pebbles or shells. Diet The diet of piping plovers consists entirely of invertebrates. Conservation Status The interior (non-coastal) population of piping plovers is Federally listed as threatened. In Colorado, piping plovers are listed as a threatened, Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). They nest on beaches, and are vulnerable to human disturbance and increased predation; therefore, conservation strategies include boosting reproductive success with nesting exclosures and closing nesting beaches to humans during the breeding season. ■ Breeding Vllnt~ North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab of Ornithologys Birds of North America Online (http:/bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (1992), Kingery (1998), COBBAIi (2015), and CFO (2015). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation none to very sparse clumps of short grasses or sedges Landscape context ungrazed and low human disturbance Size of habitat beaches more than 20 yards wide; the larger, the better Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for piping plovers. Hydrology/ Substrate • Engineer and maintain sandbars. • Create sand and gravel river islands. • Provide for course material, e.g. pebbles. • Enlarge or widen habitat where possible. • Lower summer flows to expose more habitat. • Manage and tin1e flows to benefit habitat (scouring) while minimizing nesting mortality. • Control vegetation by flooding after breeding, and lower water level prior to arrival in spring. Add sand to islands as needed. Vegetation • Clear vegetation from existing sandbars. • Control vegetation to create or maintain sparse vegetation. Land Use / Other Exclude cattle. Create nutrient-rich foraging habitat. Conservation • Close breeding beaches to human use. • Create educational signage to protect breeding birds from human disturbance. • Provide exclosures where needed. • Consider exclosure design and use wiili caution; monitor success. • Remove predators. • Create artificial habitat. • Protect all potential habitat, regardless of size. Acknowledgements Dr. James Fraser (Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Tech) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Andrews, R., and R. Righter. I 992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural I listor y, Denver, Colorado. Brown, M. B., }. G. Jorgensen, S. E. Steckler, M. J. Panella, W, R. Silcock, and C. M. Thody. 201 1. A review of interior least tern and piping plover management, conservation, and recovery on the Lower Platte River, Nebraska. Joint report of the Tern and Plover Conservation Partnership and the Nongame Bird Program at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Lincoln, Nebraska. Catlin, D. H., J. D. Fraser, J. f-1. Felio, and J. B. Cohen. 20 11. Piping plover habitat selection and nest success on natural, managed, and engineered sandbars. Journal of Wildlife 1Wa11ageme11t 75: 305-3 10. COBBAIi (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas II). 2015. Maps available online at http://bird. atlasing.org/ Atlas/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 20 I 5. Colorado county birding. Maps available at http://coloradocount)'birding.org/ CouncySelector.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver. Colorado. Ki ngery, H. E., Editor. I998. Colorado Bl'ceding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Dcblinger, R. D., J. J. Vaske, and D. W. Rimmer. 1992. An evaluation of different predator exclosures used to prolect Atlantic Coast piping plover nests. Wildlife Society B111/etin 20: 274-279. Elliott-Smith, E., and S. M. Haig. 2004. Piping plover (Charadrius melodus). The Birds of North America No. 002. Cornell Lab of Orni1hology. Rimmer, D. W., and R. D. Dcblingcr. 1990. Use of predator exclosures to protect piping plover nests. Journal of Field Ornithology 6 1:2 17-223. Sidle, J. G .. D. E. Carlson, E. M. Ki rsch, and J. J. Dinan. 1992. Flooding: mortality and habitat renewal for least terns and piping plovers. Colonial Waterbirds 15: 132- 136. License for Mdf and Dick Daniels photos: https:// creativccommons.org/licenscs/by·sa/ 3.0/ deed.en COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Piping Plovers (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:_________ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ __ __ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-sum mer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Percent open sand or gravel area >80 - 100% 20.2 >50 -80% 13.5 40-50% 6.7 Size of habitat >22 yards wide 20.2 > 16 - 22 yards wide 13.5 11 - 16 yards wide 6.7 Percent total canopy cover >6.6 feet 0% 20.2 1-5% 13.5 >5 - 20% 6.7 Percent herbaceous cover without woody vegetation 0 - 5% 20.2 >5 - 10% 13.5 > 10 - 20% 6.7 Dominant vegetation Low grasses (<8 inches}, annual forbs, OR open (unvegetated} Perennia l forbs Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns 19.2 12.8 After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Sandhill cranes breed in a variety of northern regions, including northwestern Colorado. During migration, sandhill cranes can occur almost anywhere in Colorado. Sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis, Family Gruidae) are impressive birds with a wide wingspan, red eye patch, and loud trumpeting call. Species Description Identification With a length of 3½-4 feet and wingspan of 6-7 feet, sandhill cranes are hard to miss, but they are sometimes mistaken for great blue herons. Their graceful dancing helps establish and maintain pair bonds, which last a lifetime, and their warbling or trumpeting calls can be heard from a mile away. Preferred Habitats Sandhill cranes occupy numerous wetland habitats, including emergent marshes, seeps and springs, wet meadows, moist soil units, playas, reservoirs, and streams. They rely heavily on grain crops; therefore, wetlands close to crops are preferred. Diet During migration, sandhill cranes depend on corn and other grains, such as wheat, barley, and oats. Other food items include snails, crayfish, insects, roots, tubers, small vertebrates, and waterfowl eggs. • Breeding Conservation Status - Year-round There are several subspecies of sandhill crane. The greater sandhill crane (G. c. tabida), listed as a Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Colorado (CPW 2015), winters primarily in New Mexico, with spring and fall stopovers in the San Luis Valley of Colorado. Grus c. canadensis migrates through the eastern plains of Colorado. Although two other subspecies (G. c. pulla and G. c. nesiotes) are Federally endangered, sandhill crane populations appear to be stable or increasing in most areas. In Colorado, breeding records were confirmed in 40% more priority blocks during the second Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas (20072011 ) than the first atlas (1987-1994), suggesting they use more areas for breeding than was known historically. • Nonbrccdlng - Breeding Possible occurence Nonh America map used by pcnnission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds of North Am erica Online (http:/bna.birds.corncll.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter (1992), Kingery ( 1998), COBBAIi (20 15), and CFO (201 5). COLORADO PARKS &WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Distance from shore where water is 50-100 yards 4-8 inches deep Dominant vegetation open water in roosting wetlands; low grasses, annual forbs and crop plants in foraging wetlands Habitat size >2.5 acres Height of vegetation <3.3 feet Percent emergent cover in roosting 0-20% (open view and little to no emergent wetlands vegetation) Percent herbaceous cover in foraging wetlands 80-100% Water depth (predominant) 4-8 inches in roosting wetlands; 0 or hummocks in foraging wetlands Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for sandhill cranes. Hydrology • Manage hydrology to maintain adequate width and depth (4-8 inches deep) for roosting. • Maintain flowing water to prevent spread of disease. Vegetation • Maintain availability of vegetation tl1at produces food. • Control woody vegetation where needed, especially along shorelines. • Maintain wetland vegetation at early seral stage. • Control encroaching coarse emergent vegetation (e.g., cattail, bulrush). • Use appropriate cattle grazing or fall burning to maintain grass height <10 inches. Land Use / Other • Maintain juxtaposition of roosting and feeding sites within 2.5 miles. Discourage land use changes that reduce availability of small grains. • Provide grit (e.g., pebbles and small gravel) at roost sites if needed. • Remove unused fences, towers, and utility lines. • Avoid development of new roosting habitat adjacent to dangers (e.g., utility lines). Conservation • Monitor harvest rate; adjust as needed to maintain desirable population numbers. • Form and maintain partnerships between agencies and agricultural producers. Acknowledgements Rick Schnaderbeck (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habital condilions. Sugges1ed Reading and Citations Armbrusler, M. J. 1987. Habitat suilability index models: grealer sandhill crane. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biol. Rep. 82( 10.140). 26 pp. Andrews, R., and R. Righler. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. COBBAII (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas 11). 2015. Maps available online al htlp://bird. atlasing.o rg/ Alias/CO/. CFO (Colorado Field Orni1hologis1s).2015. Colorado coun1y birding. Maps available at hltp://coloradocoun1ybirding.org/ Coun1ySclcc1or.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Aclion Plan: A Stralcgy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Iverson, G. V., P. A. Vohs, and T. C. Tacha. 1987. Habi1a1 use by mid-conlincnl sandhill cranes during spring migra1ion. /011mnl of Wildlife Management 5 I: 448-458. Kingery, H. E., Editor. 1998. Colorado Breedi11g Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Alias Parlncrship and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Laubhan, M. K., and J. H. Gamrnonley. 2001. Agricultural producers' perceptions of sandh ill cranes in the San Luis Valley of Colorado. Wildlife Society 811/leti11 29: 639645. Littlefield, C. D., and G. L. Ivey. 2000. Conservation assessmenl for grea1er sandhill cranes wintering on the Consumnes River floodplain and deha regions of California. Prepared for lhe Na1urc Conservancy. Lovvorn, J. R., and C. M. Kirkpalrick 1981. Roosting behavior and habitat of rnigram greater sandhill cranes. Journal of Wildlife Management 45: 842-857. Tacha, "I'. C., S. A. Nesbitt, and I~ A. Vohs. I 992. Sandhill crane (Grus ca11adensis). "fhe Birds of North America No. 03 I. Cornell Lab of Ornithology. COLORAD O PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Sandhill Cranes (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:___________________________ Date(s) of Assessment: ________ _ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Roosting (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, moist soil units, reservoirs) or (2) Foraging (e.g., emergent marshes, wet meadows, moist soil units, recharge ponds). Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Roosting Habitat (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, moist soil units, reservoirs) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Predominant depth of water >4-8 inches 23.1 >8 - 12 inches or 2 -4 inches 15.4 Percent of emergent vegetation 0-20% 20.8 >20-40% 13.9 >40 - 100% 6.9 Distance from shore where water is 4-8 Inches deep >55 - 165 yards 19.6 >25 - 55 yards 13.1 15- 25 yards 6.5 Dominant vegetation Open (little to no vegetation) 18.5 Grasses 12.3 Interspersion A 9.0 SorC 6.0 3.0 D A Interspersion patterns refer to the above diagram (stippled= water, solid= vegetation) Size of habitat B 0 0 C E D ~ @ 0 >2.5 acres 9.0 <2.5 acres 3.0 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Sandhill Cranes (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ __ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Roosting (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, moist soil units, reservoirs) or (2) Foraging (e.g., emergent marshes, wet meadows, moist soil units, recharge ponds). Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Foraging Habitat (e.g., emergent marshes, wet meadows, moist soil units, recharge ponds) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Low grasses, annual forbs, and crops 20.8 Size of habitat > 2.5 acres 20.8 < 2.5 acres 6.9 Percent of herbaceous vegetation (no woody plants) >80- 100% 19.8 >60-80% 13.2 30-60% 6.6 Predominant depth of water 0 or hum mocks 19.8 Height of herbaceous cover 8- 20 inches 18.8 >20 - 40 inches 12.5 >40 inches 6.3 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Short-eared owls exist throughout much of the world. In Colorado, both their breeding d istribution and migratory distribution appear sporadic, but in general, they are more common in the grasslands of eastern Colorado. Short-eared owls (Asio flammeus, Family Strigidae) use both grasslands and wetlands for habitat They hunt small mammals within the vegetation of wet meadows and marshes. Species Description Identification At 15 inches long, the short-eared owl is considered a medium-sized owl. They hunt mostly at dawn and dusk and nest on the ground. They have a wide array of vocalizations, including a rapid hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo song. Preferred Habitats Short-eared owls use emergent marshes, playas, and wet meadows, where they sometimes hunt. Extensive grasslands may represent their most important habitat; therefore, the wetland habitats closest to large tracts of grasslands will be of highest value to short-eared owls. Diet The diet of short-eared owls consists almost entirely of small mammals, especially voles, mice, and shrews. Less frequently, they eat birds. • Y. .l ◄OUnd • Nonbr-'l"G Conservation Status Although populations of short-eared owls have significantly declined in many areas, including the United States and Canada, the International Union of Conservation of Nature identifies them as a species ofleast concern because the large global population and extensive range do not justify placing them in a more vulnerable category. In Colorado, they are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). - Brooding Possible occurence North America map used by permission from Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Birds ofNortl1 America Online (http:/bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna). Colorado map based on Andrews and Righter ( 1992), Kingery (1998), COBBAil (2015), and CFO (2015). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 8021 6 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation grasses Height of vegetation <20 inches Landscape conte..'<t mosaics of grasslands, agricultural fields, and preferred wetlands Percent herbaceous cover 70-100% Residual cover 2- 8 years old and 40-60% Size of habitat >125 acres Water depth 0 for nest sites Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guid elines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for short-eared owls. Vegetation • Mow, burn, or occasionally graze as appropriate to maintain 2-8 years of accumulation of residual vegetation. Land Use Reduce amount of land continually grazed. Hang strean1ers from fences to avoid collisions. Remove unused fences. Conservation • Protect large open areas, especially native grassland. • Preserve wetland/grassland mosaic on landscape scale. • Use Conservation Reserve Program to protect habitat for nesting and foraging. Acknowledgements Rick Schnaderbcck (U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Andrews, R., and R. Righter. 1992. Colorado Birds. Denver Museum of Natural History, Denver, Colorado. Clark. R. J. 1975. A field study of the short-eared owl, Asio nammcus (Pontoppidan), in North America. Wildlife Mo11ograpl,s 47: 1-67. COBBA II (Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas Ii). 2015. Maps available on line at hllp:1/bird. atlasing.orgl Atlas/CO/ . CFO (Colorado Field Ornithologists). 201 5. Colorado county birding. Maps available at http://coloradocountybirding.org/ CountySelcctor.aspx. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 201 5. State Wildlife Actio n Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Dechant, J. A., M. L. Sondreal, D. H. Johnson, L. D. Igl, C. M. Goldade, M. P. Nenneman, and 8. R. Euliss. 1998 (revised 200 I). Effects of management practices on grassland birds: short-cared owl. Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, North Dakota. IOpages. Herkert, J. R., S. A. Simpson, R. L. Westemeier, T. L. Esker, and J. W. Walk. I999. Response of northern harriers and short-eared owls to grassland management in Illinois. Journal of Wildlife Management 63:517-523. Kingery, H. E.. Editor. I 998. Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas. Colorado Bird Atlas Partnership and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Short-eared Owl (v. Jan 2016) Project Name: _______________________ _ ___ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ __ _ __ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Height of herbaceous vegetation 8- 20 inches 15.9 >20 - 40 inches 10.6 5.3 >40 inches Estimate of percent of grasslands or grasslands with some agriculture within S miles >35% 15.9 <35% 5.3 Percent herbaceous vegetation (e.g., grasses; do not include woody vegetation) >70 -100% 15.9 >50-70% 10.6 30-50% 5.3 Percent residual cover >40 - 60% 14.3 >20-40% 9.5 10-20% 4.8 Size of habitat >250 acres 14.3 > 125 - 250 acres 9.5 60 - 125 acres 4.8 Dominant vegetation Grasses (tall and short) 11.9 Open canopy trees <50% cover 7.9 Predominant depth of water 0 or dry nesting sites with residual cover available 11.8 <1 inch 7.9 1 - 8 inches 4.0 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Preble's meadow jumping mice occur only in Colorado and Wyoming. In Colorado, they are known to occupy the counties along the Front Range from ilie Wyoming border through El Paso County. Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei, Family Dipodidae) is a rare small mammal that lives in dense riparian vegetation along the Front Range. Species Description Identification Preble's meadow jumping mice grow to approximately nine inches in length, including their five and a half-inch tails. They are mostly nocturnal and hibernate in upland areas for eight months of the year, making them difficult to observe. Preferred Habitats During summer months, the most important wetland types occupied by Preble's meadow jumping mice include riparian areas and adjacent wet meadows. During the summer, they prefer dense shrub, grass and forb ground cover along creeks, rivers, and associated waterbodies. From early fall through the spring, they hibernate underground in burrows that are typically at the base of vegetation and have a northerly aspect. Diet The diet of Preble's meadow jun1ping mice includes, but is probably not limited to, grass seeds, invertebrates, fungi, and insect larvae. Conservation Status The Preble's meadow jumping mouse is listed as threatened by ilie U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS 1998). In Colorado, they are listed as a threatened, Tier 1, Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). The Colorado Natural Heritage Progran1 considers ilie subspecies to be globallyimperiled (GS T2) and criticallyimperiled wiili the state (Sl). - Known occurence Posslblo occurenco Full species range map from USFWS (2004). Colorado map based on Grunau el al. ( 1999), and Schorr (200 I). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions ;:,,~-.~tr~~ Distance from riparian habitat patch to water <10 yards Dominant vegetation a combination of grasses, shrubs, forbs, and trees ~· Habitat size >60 acres Herbaceous vegetation height >20-40 inches ~ Landscape context ungrazed ~ Percent ground cover densely vegetated; between grasses, forbs, and shrubs, close to 100% Species richness >20 plant species Management Recommendations .,, .. 5 ""~ :i: ~ ., 0 This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for Preble's meadow jumping mouse. Hydrology • • Maintain or restore natural regime. Control erosion within stream corridor. 0: 0 Acknowledgements Robert Schorr (Colorado Natural Heritage Program) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Vegetation CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. • • • • • Grunau, L., R. Schorr, D. Green, B. Rosenlund, C. Pague, and J. Armstrong. 1999. Conservation an<l management plan for the Preble's meadow jumping mouse on the U. S. Air Force Academy. Colorado Natural Heritage Program unpublished report lo the Natural Resources Branch, U.S. Air Force Academy. Provide, restore, and enhance riparian vegetation. Provide, restore, and enhance upland shrub. Provide, restore, and enhance grassland habitat. Control noxious weeds, avoiding May through October. Consider providing woody debris. Conservation • Use best strategies to minimize disturbance. Meaney, C. A., A. K. Ruggles, B. C. Lubow, N. W. Clippinger. 2003. Abundance, survival, and h ibernation of Preble's meadow jumping mice (Zapus liudso11ius preblei) in Boulder County, Colorado. Southwestern Naturalist 48: 610-623. Schorr, R. A. 2001. Meadow jumping mice (Zap,u l,udso11ius preblei) on the U.S. Air Force Academy, El Paso County, Colorado. Colorado Natural Heritage Program unpublished report lo the Natural Resources Branch, U.S. Air Force Academy. .. :i: (j p~ 0"" 0: 6 z 0 "' 0"' 0: l) Q !> ~ Schorr, R. A. 2003. Meadow jumping mice (Zapus /iudso11i11s preblei) on the U.S. Air Force Academy, El Paso County, Colorado: Populations, Movement an<l Habitat from 2000-2002. Colorado Natural Heritage Program unpublished report lo the Natural Resources Branch, U.S. Air Force Academy. Trainor, A. M, T. M. Shenk, and K. R. Wilson. 2007. Microhabitat characteristics of Preble's meadow jumping mouse high-use areas. Journal of Wildlife Management 71: 469-477. Trainor, A. M., T. M. Shenk, and K. R. Wilson. 2012. Spatial, temporal, and biological factors associated with Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudso11i11s prel,lei) home range. Journal o/Mammalogy 93: 429-438. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 20 I 3. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants: 12-month finding on two pelilions lo dclisl the Preble's meadow jumping mouse. Federal Register 78: 31680-31712. USFWS. 2015. Draft recovery plan Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus /111dso11i11s preblei). U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 6, Lakewood, Colorado. E ~ Q L---l_..:I_ __.;;...=:;;,, COLORADO PARKS & WfLDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 11 92 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:._ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ __ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Dominant vegetation Combination of sedg es, grasses, annual and perennial forbs and dense shrubs 13.2 Combination of sedges, grasses, and dense shrubs 8.8 Combination of sedges, grasses, and more open shrubs 4.4 Percent grass cover >40% 13.2 >20-40% 8.8 10- 20% 4.4 Percent shrub cover >80% 13.2 >50-80% 8.8 5 - 50% 4.4 Distance from habitat patch to water <10 yards 12.5 10- 20 ya rds 8.4 >20- 40 yards 4.2 Species richness (number of species in vegetation community) >20 species 11.9 10 - 20 species 7.9 <10 species 4.0 Habitat size >60 acres 10.6 50- 60 acres 7.0 <50 acres 3.5 Percent forb cover >35 - 50% 10.4 > 15 -35% 6.9 5-15% 3.5 Height of herbaceous vegetation (grasses and forbs) >20 - 40 inches 9.9 8- 20 inches 6.6 <8 inches 3.3 Land use within 100 yards Ungrazed 5.1 Grazed lightly 3.4 Grazed moderately 1.7 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Northern river otters historically ranged throughout most of the United States and Canada but were extirpated from much of their range in the west. Reintroductions of otter to Colorado began in 1976, and they are now found in small numbers throughout most of western Colorado with a more scattered distribution in eastern Colorado. Northern river otters (Lontra canadensis, Family Mustelidae) occupy streams and beaver ponds across Colorado's western slope. Species Description Identification Northern river otters vary in length from 26-42 inches, with males larger than females. Males weigh on average 25 pounds; females weigh about 18 pounds. Their long tapered tails make up about one third their length. Conservation Status Northern river otters are listed as least concern by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. In Colorado, they are listed as a threatened, Tier 2, Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). Preferred Habitats River otters may inhabit nearly every aquatic habitat; however, they are most likely to occupy beaver ponds, stream channels, and warm water sloughs. Diet Otters favor fish but also consume crayfish, mollusks, frogs, snakes, turtles, salamanders, birds, mammals, and fruit. ~ Known occurenco Possible occurence North America map used from lntemel Center for Wildlife Damage Management 01ttp://icwdm.org/ handbook/carnivor/RiverOllers.asp). Colorado map based on Boyle (2006) and NDJS (2014). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Beaver often associated with beaver activity or old beaver structures Dominant vegetation healthy riparian vegetation Habitat size longer reaches usually better Shore complexity undercut banks and other complex features Structures and debris habitat complexity, including woody debris and logjams Stream order >4th order Management Recommendations Tilis fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife p riority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for northern river otters. Hydrology • Maintain natural regime to extent possible. • Protect instream and seasonal flow regimes. • Enhance and/or protect stream and habitat connectivity. Vegetation • Maintain or recreate conditions favoring healthy riparian vegetation. • Encourage new recruitment of trees. • Manage for age diversity. Land Use / Other • Enhance and/or protect bank structure. • Enhance and/or protect flood plain. • Enhance and/or protect good water quality. • Protect potential upland denning sites from flooding. • Manage for prey base (e.g., fish ). Conservation • Monitor and control commercial harvest to maintain desirable population numbers. • Form and maintain partnerships across jurisdictional boundaries to protect connectivity and long stream reaches. Acknowled gements Eric Odell and Scon Wait (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Boyle, S. 2006. North American river otter (Lo11tra ca11nde11sis): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Crowley, S., C. ). Johnson, and D. Hodder. 2012. Spatial and behavioral scales of habitat selection and activity by river oilers at latrine sites. /011mnl of Ma111111nlogy 93: 170-182. Dubuc, L. J., W. B. Krohn, and R. B. Owen, Jr. 1990. Predicting occurrence of river otters by habitat on Mount Desert Island, Maine. Journal of Wildlife Management 54: 594-599. Gorman, T. A., J. D. Erb, B. R. McMillan, and D. ). Marlin. 2006. Space use and sociality of river o tters (Lo11tra c,mndensis) in Min nesota. /011mal of Mn111111alogy 87: 740-747. Melquist, W. E., and M. G. Hornocker. 1983. Ecology of river otters in west central Idaho. Wildlife Mo11ograp/is 83: 3-60. COLORADO PARKS & W CLDLJFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-11 92 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for River Otters (v. Jan 201 6) Project Name:_________ _ _ _ _______________ Date(s) of Assessment: _________ Instructions: Enter on e value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Woody objects, e.g., logs, log jams >5 large logs 17.8 1 - 4 large logs 11.9 Beaver activity (current or remains) Current activity or recent remnants 17.8 Historic remnants 11.9 Percent canopy cover >6.6 feet >50% 17.0 >30-50% 11 .3 20-30% 5.7 Height of canopy cover >50 feet 17.0 >16- SOfeet 11.3 8 inches - 16 feet 5.7 Number of complex shore features (e.g., undercut banks) >5 1 -4 17.0 11.3 Percent of water > 8 inches deep >90% 13.4 >80-90% 8.9 40-80% 4.5 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Arkansas darters occur only in parts of Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. In Colorado, they a.re known from eight drainages within the Arkansas River Basin: Upper Arkansas, Fountain, Chico, Upper Arkansas-Lake Meredith, Horse, Upper Arkansas-John Martin, Big Sandy, and Rush. Etheostoma cragini Arkansas Darters (Etheostoma cragini, FamilyPercidae) are small native fish of the Colorado plains. They inhabit pools and channels within small streams. Species Description Identification Arkansas darters are 2½- to 3-inch fish belonging to the perch family. During April and May, the belly of breeding males changes from white to bright orange. Preferred Habitats Arkansas darters inhabit spring-fed streams, stream channels, and pools near shorelines, often with undercut banks. Diet A large portion of the Arkansas darter's diet consists of snails, but they conswne many other aquatic animals, including insects, crustaceans, other invertebrates, and fish eggs. Conservation Status Arkansas darters appear on several lists of concern: Federal candidate species (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), sensitive (Bureau of Land Management), threatened and Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015), and near threatened (International Union for Conservation of Nature). Flows on a landscape or segment scale are needed for the fish to move between or an1ong pools and to disperse. Large-scale withdrawals of ground water and dewatering streams are thought to have caused extirpations. Known occurence North America map used from US. Geologic Survey (http://nas.cr.usgs.gov). Colorado map by 1-1IB 8 watershed based on Woodling (1985), NDIS (20 14), and Paul Foutz (pers. comm., CPW). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation floating, broad-leafed vegetation, especially watercress (Nasturtium officinale) Landscape context Stream order heavy grazing unsuitable Stream width varies considerably through range; in Colorado 1.5-22 yards Substrate sand, silt, gravel Sunlight high exposure to sunlight first and second but may use larger streams for dispersal Water depth (predominant) varies through range; in Colorado 4-20 inches Water origin spring fed Water quality clear, pH between 7-8.5 Water temperature varies across seasons; in Colorado 55-86°F Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildJife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for Arkansas darters. Hydrology • Protect springs and connecting streams. • Maintain refugia on landscape scale. • Maintain corridors by allowing natural disturbances. • Protect individual pools. • Maximize water conservation. • Protect natural function. • Promote natural flow regimes. • Restore and/or enhance connections for migration and dispersal. Vegetation • Implement tarnarisk control, with an emphasis on long term management for native vegetation. Contamination • Eradicate predatory and non-native fish. • Avoid pesticide and herbicide use near small streams. Land Use / Other • Reduce impact from livestock grazing. Conservation • Translocate to establish new populations. • Identify suitable habitat for potential translocations. Acknowledgements Paul Foutz (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Readjng and Citations CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Fuller, P. 2014. Et/reostoma cmgi11i. USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Labbe, 1'. R.. and K. D. Fausch. 2000. Dynamics of intermittent stream habitat regulate persistence of a threatened fish al multiple scales. Ecological Applications 10: 1774- 179 I. Layher. B. 2002. Recovery plan for the Arkansas Darter, Etl,eostoma cragi11i Gilbert. in Kansas. Prepared for Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Miller, D. L. 1984. Distribution, abundance, and habitat of the Arkansas darter Etl,eostoma cragi11i (Percidac) in Colorado. Southwestern Na turalist 29: 496•499. NDIS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 20 14. On·line mapping tool formerly available tlirough Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado Stale University, Fort Collins, Colorado. Taber, C. A.. 8. A. Taber, and M. S. Topping. 1986. Population structure, growth and reproduction of the Arkansas darter, Etl,eostoma cragi11i (Percidae). Southwestern Naturalist 31: 207·214. USFWS (United Slates Fish 311d Wildlife Service). 2010. Species Profile for Arkansas darter (Etl,costoma cragi11i). Woodling, J. 1985. Colorado's little fish: a guide to the minnows and other lesser known fishes in the state of Colorado. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denwr, Colorado. COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Arkansas Darters (v. Ja n 2016) Project Name:_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column . Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Morphology of stream Permanent pools w ith connectivity to other waters 10.8 Substrate Sand must be a component 10.8 Dominant vegetation Aquatic floating (e.g. w atercress) and aquatic submerged or robust, e.g., cattail, bulrush, reedgrass 10.8 Water quality No visual evidence of turbidity or other pollutants 10.2 Some turbidity or presence of other pollutants, but limited to small and localized areas within the wetland. Water may be slight ly cloudy 6.8 Water is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is sti ll visible. Note: If t he sheen breaks apart when you run your finger through it, it is a natural bacterial p rocess and not water pollution 3.4 Water origin Spring fed 9.7 Stream order 1- 2 9.2 Sunlight Full sun to 10% shade 9.2 Water depth >4 - 20 inches 8.5 >20 - 40 inches 5.7 0 - 4 inches or >40 inches 2.8 Stream width at bankfull 3.3 - 5.5 yards 8.5 >5.5 - 22 yards 5.7 >22 - 44 yards 2.8 Water temperature 59 - 63°F 8.1 >63- 77°F 5.4 2.7 >77 - 95°F Landscape context Ungrazed 4.2 Grazed moderately 2.8 Grazed heavily 1.4 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Brassy minnows range from Canada south to Colorado and Utah and from Montana through northeast North America. In Colorado, they are found in the Lower South Platte River Basin and also in the backwaters of the Colorado River. Hybognathus hankinsoni Brassy minnows (Hybognathus hankinsoni, Family Cyprinidae) are small native fish of the Colorado plains. They inhabit pools and channels within small streams. Species Description Identification Adult brassy minnows are 2 ½-3 inches in length and are variously described in color, perhaps due to geographic differences or changes that occur through preservation of specimens. The majority of descriptions include a brassy color on the sides. The centers of their large eyes are even with the tips of their snouts. Diet The diet of brassy minnows consists primarily of plankton. Conservation Status Brassy minnows occur in low numbers and are listed as a Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). Preferred Habitats Brassy minnows occupy stream channels (particularly pools), back waters, and beaver ponds. Known occurence North America m ap used from US. Geologic Survey (http://nas.cr.usgs.gov). Colorado map by H UC 8 watershed based on Woodling (1985), NDIS (2014), and Paul Foutz (pers. comm., C PW). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation Acknowled gements Boyd Wright (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. abundant aquatic vegetation, especially submergent vegetation (plants growning fu lly underwater) Landscape context connec tivity with other waters through the driest months Morphology of stream permanent (deep) pools and backwaters Predatory fish absence of large predatory fish Substrate organic sediment on top of gravel Water depth (predominant) deep enough to persist th rough dry periods Woody debris abundant Suggested Reading and Citations CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Fuller, P., and M. Neilson. 20 I 5. l-lybog11at/1us /1a11ki11so11i. USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, Florida. NDlS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 2014. On-line mapping tool formerly available through Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. Quist, M. C., F. J. Rahel, and W. A. Hubert. 2005. Hierarchical fauna! fillers: an approach to assessing effects of habitat and nonnative species on native fishes. Ecology of Fres/11vater Fish 14: 24-39. Management Recommendations Scheurer, J. A., and K. D. Fausch. 2002. Brassy minnow in Colorado plains streams: identification, historical distribution, and habitat requirements at multiple scales, Final Progress Report. Colorado Water Resources Research Institute and Colorado Division of Wildlife, Aquatic Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program, Colorado Water Resources Research Institute, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO. This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and W ildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for brassy minnows. Hydrology • Manage conditions to create or maintain permanent pools. • Increase spring flows. Scheurer.). A., K. D. Fausch, and Kevin Bcstgen. 2003. Mulliscale processes regulate brassy minnow persistence in a Great Plains river. Vegetation • Manage riparian vegetation to create root mass that prevents streambank erosion. • Manage for conditions that favor submergent vegetation. • Manage for conditions in riparian area that favor recruitment of native woody vegetation. Trn11sactio11s of t/,e A111erica11 Fisheries Society I32: 840-855. Schlosser, I. J. 1988. Predation rates and the behavioral response of adult brassy minnows (l·Jybognathus hankinsoni) to creek chub and smaJlmouth bass Predators. Copeia I988: 69 1-698. Contamination • Maintain native fish communities. • Prevent invasion of exotic predators and competitors. • Monitor streams for toxins and artificial hormones. Woodling, J. 1985. Colorado's little fish: a guide to the minnows and other lesser known fishes in the state of Colorado. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Land Use/ Other • Encourage beaver where appropriate to create suitable pools. Conservation Identify suitable habitat for potential translocations. Relocate in suitable habitat. ~ "'0 0 " f ~ ~ " ":x: ~ f ~ _, ~ _, :x: ~ II ' Q ...§ ~ u V, Cl ~ ~ Q COLORADO PARKS & W ILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1 192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Brassy Minnows (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _ _ _ __ _ _ __________ _ _ __ __ __ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Stream morphology/landscape Permanent pools connected with other waters during driest time of summer 21.4 Permanent pools with intermittent connection to other waters during driest ti me of summer Shallow or temporary pools with connection to other waters during driest time of summer 14.2 7.1 Dominant vegetation Abundant aquatic vegetation, including submergent veget ation 20.2 Predatory fish General absence of predatory fish 20.2 Predominant water depth during driest time of summer Answer for ONLY ONE appropriate stream segment, below, using best option Upstream reach of streams inhabited by brassy minnow >15 inches 19.1 >5 - 15 inches 12.8 3 - 5 inches 6.4 Size of unvegetated patch on otherwise vegetated bar or island >25 inches 19.1 > 15 - 25 inches 12.8 5 -15 inches 6.4 Downstream reach of streams inhabited by brassy minnow >40 inches 19.1 > 15 - 40 inches 12.8 10- 15 inches 6.4 Woody debris Ample woody debri s in water to provide cover Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns 19.1 After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range Northern redbelly dace are found in many isolated populations across the northern United States and Canada. In Colorado, northern redbelly dace are currently known only in the West Plum Creek drainage, south of Chatfield Reservoir. Southern redbelly dace have a smaller distribution but are also widely scattered into isolated populations. In Colorado southern redbelly dace are known in five drainages: Upper Arkansas River, Fountain Creek, Chico Creek, Apishapa River, and Big Sandy Creek. Red belly dace (Family Cyprinidae) are small native fish ofthe Colorado plains. Their name comes from the reb color of their undersides during the summer months. Species Description Identification Two dace are included in this guild: northern redbelly dace (Phoxinus eos) and southern redbelly dace (P. erythrogaster). The southern redbelly dace can attain a length of up to 3 inches, while the northern redbelly dace is usually less than 2 inches in length. During summer, males acquire the red on their bellies that inspired their names. Preferred Habitats Both dace occupy stream channels and off-channel wetlands. Diet Northern redbelly dace are omnivorous, feeding on vegetation, small invertebrates, and detritus throughout the water column. Southern redbelly dace graze from the surface of substrate, rocks and other submerged objects.. Known oceurenc& Conservation Status Neither dace speceis is Federally endangered; however, they are both considered locally uncommon. Both are endangered in Colorado, due to low population numbers, and are listed as Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). Known occurence Colorado occurcnce maps by HUC 8 watershed based on Woodling (198S), NDIS (2011), and Paul Foutz (pcrs. comm., CPW). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dom inant vegetation plenty of vegetation , especially algae Morphology of stream slow- moving pools, undercut banks Pred atory fish absence ofla rge predatory fish Predominant water depth >10 inches Sunlight ample shade Water origin spring-fed water up to third-order streams Water quality clear and unpolluted Water temperature cool; 63- 75°F Woody debris presence of woody debris as cover Management Recommendations Th.is fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A nwnber of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for redbelly dace. Acknowled gements Boyd Wright and Paul Foutz (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Hydrology/ Stream Morphology • Restore streams to natural function, especially dewatered streams. • Minimize changes to natural stream functions. • Protect springs that flow into streams. • Prevent erosion and siltation by maintaining buffers. • Restore and/or enhance connections for migration and dispersal. Contamination • Prevent with barriers invasion by predatory and non-native fish. • Prevent stocking of predatory fish and bullfrogs. • Monitor streams for toxins and artificial hormones. • Consider location of wastewater treatment facilities. Conservation • Restock appropriate streams with redbelly dace from closest stream. • Restrict harvest and enforce regulations. • Identify suitable habitat for potential translocations. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conser ving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver. Colorado. Woodling, J. 1985. Colorado's little fish: a guide to the minnows and other lesser known fishes in the state of Colorado. Colorado Division of Wildlife, Denver, Colorado. Northern redbellv dace Bestgen, K. R. 1989. Distribution and notes on the biology of Pl1oxinus eos (Cyprinidae) in Colorado. S011t/rwestem Naturnlist 34: 225-231. MNHP and MFWP (Montana Natural Heritage Program and Montana Fish, WildJife and Parks). 2012. Northern redbelly dace, Clrrosomos eos. Nico, L., and P. Fuller. 20 15. Clrrosomus eos. USGS Nonind igenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, Florida. Propst, D. L., and C. A. Carlson. 1986. 111e d istribution and status of warmwater fishes in the Platte River d rainage, Colorado. Southwestern Naturalist 31: 149- 167. Stasiak, R. 2006. Northern redbelly dace (Plwxinus eos): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Ser vice, Rod.-y Mountain Region. Southern redbelly dace Bertrand, K. N., and K. B. Gido. 2007. Effects of herbivorous minnow, southern redbellv dace (Phoxi1111s erythrognster), on stream · productivity and ecosystem structure. Oecologia 151: 69- 81. Seilheimer, T. S., and W. L. Fisher. 20 l 0. Habitat use by fishes in groundwater-dependent streams of southern Oklahoma. American Midland Naturalist 164:2 0 1-2 16. Slack, W. 1~. M. ·c O'Connell, T. L. Peterson, J. A. Ewin g Ill, and S. '[ Ross. 1997. lchth)•ofaunal and habitat associations of d isjunct populations of southern rcdbclly dace Pl10xin11s erytrognster (Telcostci: Cyprinidae) in Mississippi. American Midland Nnt11rnlist 137: 251-265. Stasiak, R. H. 2007. Southern redbclly dace (Phoxinus erytlrrogaster): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. COLORADO PARKS & W ILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Red belly Dace (v. Jan 201 6) Project Name: _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ __ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Stream morphology Pools, overhung banks, slow water 13.3 Water quality No visual evidence of tu rbidity or other pollutants 12.5 Some turbidity or presence of other pollutants, but limited to small and localized areas within the wetland 8.4 Water is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is still visible. Note: If the sheen breaks apart when you run your finger through it, it is a natural bacterial process and not water pollution. 4.2 Dominant vegetation Amp le vegetation, especially algae 12.5 Sunlight availability Full shade 11.9 Some shade 7.9 No shade 4.0 Water origin/stream order Answer for EITHER northern or sout hern redbelly dace Northern redbelly dace Spring-fed; stream order: 1 - 2 11.9 Southern redbelly dace Stream order: 1 - 3 11.9 Predatory fish General absence of predatory fish 11 .9 Predominant depth of water 10 inches 10.4 >8 - 20 inches 7.0 6-8 inches 3.5 Woody debris Presence of woody debris as cover 10.4 Water temperature 63 - 75°F 5.2 >75°F 1.7 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORIT Y WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO W ETLANDS Species Distribution Range Northern leopard frogs range from the northern United States and Canada to tl1e more northern parts of the southwestern United States. With the exception of a few counties, they occur tl1roughout Colorado. Plains leopard frogs have a much smaller distribution than northern leopard frogs, occurring through tl1e Great Plains into southeastern Arizona and eastern Colorado. Northern Leopard Frog Two species of leopard frogs occur in Colorado. Northern leopard frogs (Rana pipiens; primary photo, brighter green) are more widespread than plains leopard frogs (R. b/airi; inset photo). Species Description Diet Two leopard frogs are included in this guild: northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) and plains leopard frog (R. blairi). They are roughly the sam e size (3- 4 inches as adults), but plains leopard frogs are usually browner than the m ostly green northern leopard frogs. Adult leopard frogs eat primarily insects and other invertebrates, iJ1cluding crustaceans, mollusks, and worms, as well as small vertebrates, such as other amphibians and snakes. Leopard frog tadpoles are herbivorous, eating mostly free-floating algae, but also consuming some animal material. Prefe rred Habitats Conservation Status Due to their complicated life history traits, leopard frogs occupy many habitats during different seasons and stages of development, but they are closely associated with wet environments. 1n general, leopard frogs occupy three categories of habitat: ( 1) over-wintering habitat with deep water that does not freeze solid; (2) foraging habitat for adults, which may consist of uplands, riparian areas, and wet meadows; and (3) breeding habitat suitable for egg development and tadpole survival. In general, plains leopard frogs breed in more ephemeral ponds, while northern leopard frogs use semi-permanent ponds. Northern leopard frog populations have declined throughout their range; they are listed in all western states and Canada as sensitive, threatened, or endangered. 1n Colorado, northern leopard frogs are listed as a Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 201 5). Less is known about plain s leopard frog populations, but threats to plains leopard frogs are probably similar to those of northern leopard frogs. They are listed as a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Colorado (CPW 2015). Identification - Known occurenco Pou lble occuranco Plains l eopard Frog - Known occurence Possible occurence Leopard frog distribution maps for Colorado adapted from Hammerson {1999) and NDIS (20 14). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation in adult foraging wetlands varies but includes grasses, sedges, and forbs Dominant vegetation in breeding wetlands emergent vegetation with buffer of grasses, sedges, rushes, and spike rushes Landscape context 0.6-1.2 miles between categories of habitat (see above habitat rypes) Percent vegetation cover dense and extensive Predatory fish and bullfrogs none Size of habitat can be very small Sunlight high sunlight exposure Vegetation height in adult foraging wetlands 6-12 inches Water depth for winter hibernation deep enough not to freeze to the bottom Water depth in breeding wetlands 25-40 inches but can vary Water quality neutral pH. well-oxygenated, and unpolluted Water temperature 54-73°F Acknowledgements Tina Jackson (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Management Recommendations Corn. P.S., and L.J. Livo. 1989. Leopard frog and wood frog reproduction in Colorado and Wyoming. Nortl,westt m Nat11ralist 70: 1-9. This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for leopard frogs. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife ACLion Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Hydrology Maintain water depths to avoid water column freezing solid. For breeding ponds, maintain depth of>20 in. until metamorphosis completed. After mid-July, draw down water containing predatory fish and bullfrog larvae. Vegetation Provide grass buffers arOlmd breeding ponds. Contamination Reduce nitrogen loading. Reduce pesticides, chemicals and other toxins. Reduce predatory fish. • Possibly reduce or change mosquito control. Land Use Eliminate livestock access to ponds. Avoid or minimize clear-cutting. Conservation Translocate frogs to re-establish populations. Promote conservation programs to provide grassland component in the landscape. Promote native species in adjacent lands. Hammerson. G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado: A Colorado Field Guide. University Press of Colorado and Colorado Division of Wildlife. Nichols, ). 2006. Petition 10 list the western United Stales population of northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) as threatened. Petitioners: Center for Native Ecosystems, Biodiversity Conservation Alliance, Defenders of Black Hills, Forest Guardians, Center for Biological Diversity, "The Ark Initiative, Native Ecosystems Council, Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action. NDIS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 2014. On-line mapping tool formerly available through Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. Smith, B. E., and D. A. Keinath. 2004. Species assessment for the northern leopard frog (Rana pipie11s) in Wyoming. United States Depar1111en1 of the Interior. Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming State Office, C heyenne. Wyoming. Smith, B. E., and D. A. Kcinath. 2005. Plains leopard frog (Ra11a hlairi): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Sen~cc, Rocky Mountain Region. Smith. B.E. and D.A. Kcinath. 2007. Northern leopard frog (Ram, pipic11s): a technical conservation assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. USFS (Un ited States Forest Service). 2003. Conservation assessment for plains leopard frog (Rana hlairi). USDA Forest Service, Eastern Region. COLORADO PARKS & W ILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-11 92 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Leopard Frogs (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:______________ __________ __ _ Date(s) of Assessment: ___ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Breeding Wetlands (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, seeps, springs, moist soil units, reservoirs, other impoundments), (2) Adult Foraging Wetlands (e.g., wet meadows, riparian areas), or (3) Over-wintering Wetlands (oxbows, stream channels, warm water sloughs, gravel pits, and reservoirs). Enter one value that best describes each habitat variable during the appropriate season, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Breeding Wetlands (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, seeps, springs, moist soil units, reservoirs, other impoundments) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Water pH 6.1 -7 16.3 Water quality No visual evidence of turbidity or ot her pollutant s Some turbid it y or presence of other pollutants, but limited to small and localized areas wit hin the wetland; water may be slightly clo udy Water is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is still visible (note: if the sheen breaks apart when you run your fi nger through it, it is a natural bacterial process and not water pollution) 16.3 10.8 5.4 Predominant depth of water >25 - 40 inches 16.3 >40 - 80 inches 10.8 4-25 inches 5.4 Percent total canopy cover 6.6 feet 0 - 30% 15.4 >30- 50% 10.3 >50- 100% 5.1 Percent emergent vegetation >50- 90% 12.2 >30-50% 8.1 10- 30% 4.1 Height of emergent vegetation 8-40 inches 12.2 >40 - 80 inches 8.1 >80 inches 4.1 Dominant vegetation Robust wetland herbs (cattail, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.) tall sedges and rushes >8 inches, aquatic vegetation (submergent, floating leaves, algae) 11.3 Tall grasses (>8 inches), open willows/shrubs 7.6 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �Habitat Scorecard for Leopard Frogs (v.Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _ __ _ __ _ __ __ __ __ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ __ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1 ) Breeding Wetlands (e.g., emergent m arshes, playas, seeps, springs, moist soil units, reservoirs, other impoundments), (2) Adult Foraging Wetlands (e.g., wet meadows, riparian areas), or (3) Over-wintering Wetlands (oxbows, stream channels, warm water sloughs, gravel pits, and reservoirs). Enter one value that best describes each habitat variable during the appropriate season, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Adult Foraging Wetlands (e.g., wet meadows, riparian areas) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Height of herbaceous cover 2 - 20 inches 23.0 >20 -40 inches 15.3 >40 - 80 inches 7.7 Predominant depth of w ater 0-4 inches 23.0 >4-8 inches 15.3 >8 - 12 inches 7.7 Water pH 6.1 - 7 23.0 Percent of herbaceous cover >30 -90% 17.2 25 - 30% or >90% 5.7 Dominant vegetation Low grasses <8 inches, annual forbs, perenn ial forbs Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns 11.3 After �Habitat Scorecard for Leopard Frogs (v.Jan 2016) Project Name: _______ _ _______________ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Select appropriate checklist: (1) Breeding Wetlands (e.g., emergent marshes, playas, seeps, springs, moist soil units, reservoirs, other impoundments), (2) Adult Foraging Wetlands (e.g., wet meadows, riparian areas), or (3) Over-wintering Wetlands (oxbows, stream channels, warm water sloughs, gravel pits, and reservoirs). Enter one value that best describes each habitat variable during the appropriate season, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Over-wintering Wetlands (oxbows, stream channels, warm water sloughs, gravel pits, and reservoirs) Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Percent of habitat covered by water >90-100% 19.4 >60 - 90% 12.9 40 - 60% 6.5 Predominant depth of water >40 inches 19.4 35 - 40 inches 6.5 Water pH 6.1 - 7 23.0 Water quality No visual evidence of turbidity or other pollutants. 18.4 Some turbidity or presence of other pollutants, but limited to small and localized areas within the wetland; water may be slightly cloudy 12.3 Water is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is still visible (note: if the sheen b reaks apart when you run your finger through it, it is a natural bacterial process and not water pollution) 6.1 Percent of submergent vegetation >30 - 60% 14.6 > 10-30% 9.7 0-10% 4.9 Dominant vegetation Robust wetland herbs (cattail, bulrush, reedgrass, etc.) tall sedges and rushes >8 inches, aquatic vegetation (submergent, floating leaves, algae) Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns 9.7 After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range The red-sided garter snake is found in Canada and the western United States, with a disjunct distribution in the western United States. In Colorado, they are found in the northeast and north-central part of the state. Red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis, Family Colubridae) occur in wetlands on Colorado's northeastern plains. Species Description Identification Red-sided garter snakes, sometimes referred to as common garter snakes, can grow as long as 49 inches. In Colorado, they are usually considerably smaller and may only grow as long as about 3 feet (36 inches). They have patches of red between their lighter stripes. Preferred Habitats Garter snakes hibernate during the winter, up to seven or eight months in the more northern parts of their range. While they are active, they are wetland-dependent, occupying most wetland habitat types within Colorado. Diet Red-sided garter snakes consume primarily amphibians, fish, and earthworm s. Conservation Status The abundance of red-sided garter snakes is mostly unknown. In Colorado, they are listed as a Species of Concern and a Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). Population declines of other garter snakes, such as tl1e western terrestrial garter snake (Tharnnophis elegans) that consume mostly amphibians, have apparently been tied to amphibian declines. Because the red-sided garter snake eats primarily amphibians, it is possible populations of red-sided garter snakes are associated with populations of amphibians. - Known occurence Possible occurence North America map used from Wild Animals of Manitoba (http://,vw1v.gov.mb.ca/ conservation/wildlife/ mbsp/fs/rsgarter.html). Colorado map based on Hammcrson (1999) and NDIS {2014). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Dominant vegetation emergent, sedges, grasses, and other vegetation that provides cover Landscape context close and unfragmented connection between upland hibernacula (hibernation sites) and wetlands (foraging habitat) Percent emergent cover very dense Size of habitat not well understood, but larger is better Water quality pH = 6.1-7 with no visual evidence of turbidity or other pollutants Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for red-sided garter snakes. Hydrology • For breeding ponds, maintain depth of >20 inches until metamorphosis completed. • After mid-July, draw down water containing predatory fish and bullfrog larvae. Vegetation • Provide grass buffers around breeding ponds. • Manage for dense emergent vegetation. Containimation Reduce nitrogen loading. • Reduce pesticides, chemicals and other toxins. • Reduce predatory fish. • Possibly reduce or change mosquito control. Land Use/ Other • Eliminate livestock access to ponds. • Avoid or minimize clear-cutting. Acknowledgements Tina Jackson (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided inp ut on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations CPW (Colorado Park.~ and Wildlife). 2015. State Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Hammerson, G. A. 1999. Amplribia11s n11d Reptiles i11 Colorado. University Press of Colorado. Niwot, Colorado. Larsen, K. W.. P. T. Gregory, and R. Antoniak. 1993. Reproductive ecology of the common garter snake '1/,amnoplris sirtalis at the northern limic of its range. America11 Midland Naturalist 129: 336-345. Manitoba Wildlife Branch.20 15. Wild an imals of Manitoba: Red-sided garccr snake fact sheet. https://www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/wildlife/ mbsp/fs/rsgartcr. html. Mallhews, K. R., It A. Knapp, and K. L. Pope. 2002. Garter snake d istributions in highelevation aquatic ecosystems: is there a link with declining amphibian populations and nonnative trout intro duc tio ns? Jourunl of Conservation Translocate frogs to re-establish populations that can serve as a food source. Promote conservation programs to provide grassland component in the landscape. Promote native species in adjacent lands. Herpetology 36: 16-22. NDIS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 2014. O n-line mapping tool formerly available through Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. Shine, R., M. J. Elphick, P. S. Harlow, I. 'C Moore, M. P. l.eMaster, and R. T. i\llason. 200 I. Movements, mating, a nd dispersal of red-sided gartersnakes (111011111ophis sirtalis parictnlis) from a communal den in Manitoba. Copcia, Vol. 2001. No. I (Feb. 16, 2001 ): 82-91. License for Zooplan and J Hazard photos: h11ps:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ deed.en. COLO RADO PARKS & W ILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 802 16 • (303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co. us �Habitat Scorecard for Red-sided Garter Snakes (v. Jan 2016) Project Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value colum n. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Percent of emergent vegetation >60- 100% 36.4 >40-60% 24.2 20-40% 12.1 Amphibians in same habitat Abundant amphibians present 36.4 Only occasional amphibians noted 12. 1 Water quality No visual evidence of turbidity or other pollutants 27.2 Some turbidity or p resence of other pollutants, but limited to sma ll and localized areas within the wetland; water may be slig htly cloudy 18.2 Water is cloudy or has unnatural oil sheen, but the bottom is still visible (note: if the sheen breaks apart when you run your finger t hrough it, it is a natural bacterial process and not water pollution) 9.1 Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns After �ASSESSING HABITAT QUALITY FOR PRIORITY WILDLIFE SPECIES IN COLORADO WETLANDS Species Distribution Range The range of yellow mud turtles extends from parts of Nebraska through northern Mexico and from far souilieastern Arizona to disjointed populations in Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa. In Colorado, yellow mud turtles are known only in the far eastern counties. North America m ap used from U.S. Geologic Kinostemon flavescens Yellow mud turtles (Kinosternon flavescens, Family Kinosternidae) are found in wetlands on the far eastern plains of Colorado. They lay their eggs in sandy soil. Species Description Identification The carapace of an adult yellow mud turtles is typically no longer than 6-7 inches, dome shaped and flat on top. The marginal shields are often yellow. TI1e turtles have relatively large heads and yellow throats. Preferred Habitats Yellow mud turtles require iliree basic habitats to complete th eir life cycle: (1 ) an upland hibernation site, (2) aquatic habitats, often wetlands and other bottomlands, and (3) a sandy site for aestivation (summer dormancy, similar to winter hibernation) and egg-laying. Additionally, iliey require suitable habitat to m ove among iliese sites. They will occupy almost any wetland type iliat has adjacent sandy areas, such as sand ridges and sand hills. Diet Yellow mud trutles are primarily carnivorous, though they do consume duckweed, Their diet consists of snails, fish, crayfish, and oilier macroinvertebrates. r7. Conservation Status Due to low population numbers, in Colorado, yellow mud turtles are listed as a Species of Concern and Tier 2 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (CPW 2015). Severe declines in Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri are attributed to lower water tables and wiilidrawal of water from aquifers. Survey (http://nas.cr.usgs.gov). Colorado m ap based Hammerson (1999) and N DIS (2014). COLORADO PARKS & WILDLIFE • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • (303) 297-1192 • cpw.stale.co.us �Preferred Habitat Conditions Aestivation depth 2-l0 inches Aestivation site relative to wetland 16 feet above elevation of wetland Dominant vegetation aquatic (submergent, floating, algae) Hydrology of wetland ephemeral wetlands; occasionally farm ponds Landscape context wetland adjacency to sand ridges, sandy rises, or sand hills Water depth 3-10 inches Water temperature 64-68°F Management Recommendations This fact sheet contains easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of Colorado Parks and Wildlife priority wetland-dependent wildlife. A number of practical steps can be taken to improve habitat for yellow mud turtles. Hydrology • In spring, maintain water depth that limits access by terrestrial predators but allows turtle hydration, reproduction and feeding. In later summer and fall, reduce depth to promote kill of predatory fish and predatory aquatic turtles. Conservation • • • • Maintain sand habitat between wetlands to facilitate seasonal movements and gene flow. Maintain mosaic of wetland diversity. Remove barriers that prevent movement an1ong wetlands. Control predators. Acknowledgements Tina Jackson (Colorado Parks and Wildlife) reviewed an earlier version and provided input on preferred habitat conditions. Suggested Reading and Citations Bernstein. N. P., and J. L. Christiansen. 201 I. Response of a yellow mud turtle (Ki11ostemo11 flavescens Agassiz) community to habitat change: management implications for a nature preserve. Natural Areas /011rnal 31: 414-419. Christiansen, ). L., J. A. Cooper, J. W. Bickham, B. ). Gallaway, and M. D. Springer. I 985. Aspects of the natural history of the yellow mud tu rtle Ki11ostemo11 flavescens (Kinoslernidae) in Iowa: a proposed endangered species. Sout/Jwestern Naturalist 30: 4 13-425. CPW (Colorado Parks and Wildlife). 2015. Stale Wildlife Action Plan: A Strategy for Conserving Wildlife in Colorado. Denver, Colorado. Degenhardt, W. G., and ). L.. C hristiansen. 1974. Distri bution and habitats of tu rtles in New Mexico. Soutlnvestem Na turalist 19: 21-46. Gregoire, D. R. 2015. Ki11osterno11 jlavesce11s. USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL. Hammerson, G. A. 1999. Amphibians and Reptiles in Colorado: A Colorado Field Guide. University Press of Colorado and Colorado Division of Wildlife. Iverson, J. B. 199 1. Life history and demography of the yellow mnd turtle, Ki11ostemon flavesce11s. Herpetologicn 47: 373-395. NDIS (Natural Diversity Information Source). 20 I 4. On-line mapping tool for merly available through Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory. Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado. Tuma, M. W. 2006. Range, habitat use, and seasonal activity of the yellow mud turtle (Ki11ostemon flavescens) in Northwestern Illinois: implications for site-specific conservation and management. Clielo11in11 Conservation and Biology 5: I 08-120. Webster, C. 1986. SubsIrate preference and activity in the turtle, Kinosternon flavescens. Jou ma/ of Herpetology 20: 477-482. COLORADO PARKS & WTLDLU:E • 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216 • {303) 297- 1192 • cpw.state.co.us �Habitat Scorecard for Yellow Mud Turtles (v. Jan 2016) Project Name:_ _ _ __ __ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ __ Date(s) of Assessment: _ _ __ _ __ __ Instructions: Enter one value that best describes early to mid-summer conditions of each habitat variable, using the numbers in the value column. Habitat variables are in shaded boxes; ranges of condition are directly below each variable. If condition is outside range or is not described, enter a zero. Key habitat variable and conditions Value Before Water Ephemeral 13.7 Permanent 9.1 Substrate of wetland Soft mud or muddy sand 12.2 Adjacent aestivation site (aestivation= dormancy to avoid summer heat, site must have sandy soil} At least 5.5 yards above elevation of wetla nd and easy to access 12.2 Sandy soil depth of adjacent aestivation site 2- 10 inches 12.2 Percent emergent vegetation >70-1 00% 12.2 >40 - 70% 8.2 20 - 40% 4.1 Predominant depth of water 3 - 10 inches 10.7 > 10-16inches 7.2 Water temperature 64-68°F 10.7 >68 - 79°F 7.2 >79-91 °F 3.6 Percent of landscape within 100 yard dominated by grassland >70 - 100% 10.7 >40-70% 0 - 40% 7.2 3.6 Percent of landscape within 100 yard dominated by grassland Aquatic vegetation (submergent, floating, algae) Total (of 100 possible): add all numbers in before or after columns 5.4 After � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Fact Sheets Type The nature or genre of the resource Fact Sheet Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Description An account of the resource CPW Fact Sheets Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wildlife species profiles: Assessing habitat quality for priority wildlife species in Colorado wetlands Description An account of the resource Wildlife species profiles, compiled in 2016, for priority wetland-dependent birds, mammals, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. The purpose of the profiles is to provide landowners and land managers with easy-to-use guidelines for understanding habitat needs of priority wetland-dependent wildlife.&nbsp;<br /><br /><a href="https://cpw.state.co.us/species-profiles">Find current species profiles on CPW website</a><br /><br />Species profiles included:<br /><strong>BIRDS</strong><br /> <ul> <li>American bittern</li> <li>Bald eagle&nbsp;</li> <li>Black rail</li> <li>Dabbling ducks</li> <li>Least tern</li> <li>Lewis's woodpecker</li> <li>Long-billed curlew</li> <li>Piping plover</li> <li>Sandhill crane</li> <li>Short-eared owl</li> </ul> <strong>MAMMALS<br /></strong> <ul> <li>Preble's jumping mouse</li> <li>River otter<strong></strong></li> </ul> <strong>FISH<br /></strong> <ul> <li>Arkansas darter&nbsp;</li> <li>Brassy minnow</li> <li>N. redbelly dace</li> <li>S. redbelly dace</li> </ul> <strong>HERPS<br /></strong> <ul> <li>N. leopard frog</li> <li>Plains leopard frog</li> <li>Red-sided garter snake</li> <li>Yellow mud turtle</li> </ul> <br />Print copy located in CPW Research Library: FILE Fact Sheets Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Colorado Parks & WIldlife Date Created Date of creation of the resource. 2016 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-NC/1.0/">No Copyright - Non-Commercial Use Only</a>