March 1984 Vol. IX No. 3

Department of interior. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Technical Bulletin Endangered Species Program, Washington, D.C. 20240 Wood Stork Listed Protection Given to as Endangered Species Two Rare Hawaiian

The U.S. breeding population of the that they locate by groping in shallow Plants wood stork (Mycteria americana) has water with their long beaks. Wood stork decreased over 75 percent from its 1930 nests are constructed in cypress and Two very rare species of plants that levels, leading the Service to list this mangrove swamps, habitat types that are restricted to the rim of Diamond large bird as an Endangered species have been steadily reduced in acreage Head Crater on the island of O'ahu, (F.R. 2/28/84). It is the only true species over recent decades. The U.S. breeding Hawai'i, have been listed by the Service of stork breeding in this country. With- population of the wood stork has as Endangered (2/17/84). Each species out a change in current trends, this declined from an estimated 20,000 pairs is known only from a single small popu- wood stork population could become in the 1930s to fewer than 5,000 pairs lation, and both are vulnerable to habitat extirpated by the turn of the century. each year since 1978. Artificial manipu- degradation and accidental brush fires. Destruction and alteration of feeding lation of natural water regimes, particu- Bidens cuneata (cuneate bidens), an habitat are the main reasons for its larly in the important south Florida area, herb, and Schiedea adamantis (Dia- decline in range and numbers. has decreased prey fish numbers and mond Head schiedea), a small shrub, are Wood storks are large, long-legged, availability. Losses of nesting habitat of great scientific interest because they white wading birds with an unfeathered also may be affecting storks in central belong to families that have undergone gray head and a thick, dark bill. They Florida. Disturbance by humans during much evolutionary diversification since frequent freshwater and brackish the nesting season at some rookeries becoming established in the Hawaiian wetlands, feeding primarily on small fish Islands. Both are members of genera continued on page 3 that make excellent modelsforthestudy of evolution and adaptive radiation in insular floras. The various species of Bidens (generically known as ko'oko'o- lau in the Hawaiian language) found in the islands are already being used for such research. Additionally, Schiedea, an endemic genus in the carnation fam- ily, has an unusual floral structure that makes its reproductive system one of particular botanical interest. The single populations of both spe- cies are located just below a hiking trail that follows the crater crestline. Although the Hawai'i Division of State Parks discourages hiking along the crater rim for safety reasons, except in a few selected places, the presence of the trail does attract use. The result is soil compaction and loss of vegetative cover, leading to erosion of the habitat. Some inadvertent trampling of the plants also could occur since the trail passes through or near both population sites. These threats could intensify because the State intends to make Dia- mond Head a public park and recreation area. It does not plan to develop those portions of the rim trail near the plants, but the increased number of visitors will necessitate measures for their conservation. Increased public use could also mean increased danger from fire. Due to the dry conditions in the area, fire is already a significant hazard. A single blaze wood stork continued on page 7

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) The Boise Field Station team botanist met with the Bureau of Land Manage- ment (BLM) concerning recovery work on Mirabilis macfarlanei (MacFarlane's four-o'clock). A BLM temporary bota- nist will map and start field studies on the new M. macfarlanei site found las^^ season. It has also agreed to mak^B arrangements for Soil Conservation Service scientists to do a complete soils analysis of the M. macfarlanei sites in Idaho. A BLM biologist is going to accompany us on the helicopter survey next season. Updated information on M. macfar- lanei was presented to Nez Perce National Forest personnel. They are going to look at U.S. Forest Service lands and explore with us the possibility of establishing an experimental population. Region 1—The FWS Boise Field Sta- tiveeffects analysis of the entire ecosys- Recently, the Great Basin Complex tion's Project Leader attended the tem. When completed, this information completed an analysis of several hypo- recent Yellowstone ecosystem grizzly should give us a much better picture of thetical water management plans under bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) manage- grizzly recovery potential and assist us consideration by the negotiation team ment sub-committee meeting. The Yel- in Section 7 evaluations. that is attempting to resolve Truckee- lowstone area land management Carson River water use conflicts. The agencies have agreed to start a cumula- purpose of our analysis was to estimate the impact of seven different plans on the survival and recovery of cui-ui (Chasmistes cujus) and Lahontan cut- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service James Johnson. Endangered Species throat trout or LCT {Salmo clarki hen- Washington, D.C. 20240 Specialist shawl). Although the effective habitat/time model is the best approach Robert A Jantzen, Director Region 3. Federal BIdg . Fort Snelling for assessing the plans, it requires more (202-343-4717) Twin Cities. MN 551 11 (612-725-3500) Robert E Gilmore Harvey Nelson. Regional Director information than is available. Instead, an Associate Director ar^d Johns Popowsi<\. Assistant Regiona abbreviated analysis will be done to Endangered Species Program Manager Director: JamesM Engel. Endangered compare the monthly hypothetical flows^^ (202-343-4646) Species Specialist. that would have occurred over the past^^ John L Spinks. Chief. Region 4, Richard B Russell Federal 80 years under a given plan to those Office of Endangered Species BIdg . 75 Spring St.. S W , Atlanta. GA flows required for Endangered or (703-235-2771) 30303 (404-221-3583): James W Pulliam, Threatened species. The results of this Thomas J Parisot, Chief. Regional Director. John I. Christian, analysis should provide sufficient infor- Federal Wildlife Permit Office Assistant Regional Director: Alex B mation on the beneficial and harmful (703-235-1937) Montgomery, Endangered Species Spe- impacts of each plan. Clark R Bavin, Cliief. cialist Division of Law Enforcement During the last 2 months, the Great (202-343-9242) Region 5. Suite 700. One Gateway Center, Basin Comiilex staff has been working Newton Corner, MA 02158 (617-965- TECHNICAL BULLETIN STAFF with the Pyramid Lake Indian Tribal 5100) Howard Larsen, Regional Direc- Michael Bender. Editor Enterprises (PLITE) to develop a Memo- (703-235-2407) tor: Stephen W Parry, Assistant Regional Director: Paul Nickerson, Endangered randum of Understanding. Its purpose is Species Specialist. to develop a cooperative program for the Regional Offices conservation and restoration of LCT and Region 6. P.O Box 25486, Denver Federal Region 1, Suite 1692. Lloyd 500 BIdg , Center. Denver, CO 80225 (303-234- cui-ui in waters of the Pyramid Lake 500 N.E Multnomah St. Portland. OR 2209) Galen Buterbaugh, Regional Indian Reservation by identifying 97232 (503-231-6118). Richard J My- Director: John D Green, Assistant resource management, fish production, shak. Regional Director. William F Regional Director: Don Rodgers, Endan- and research obligations of the Service Shake. Assistant Regional Director. gered Species Specialist and PLITE. Sanford R Wilbur. Endangered Species The Bureau of Reclamation has Specialist. Region 7 llOl E Tudor Rd Anchorage, agreed to fund an instream flow study of AK 99503 (907-786-3542) Robert E Region 2 PC Box 1306. Albuquerque. the lower Truckee River this year. Com- Putz, Regional Director: Jon Nelson, NM 87103 (505-766-2321). Michael J pletion of this study will allow for better Assistant Regional Director: Dennis Spear. Regional Director. Conrad A evaluation of proposed water manage- Money, Endangered Species Specialist. Fjetland Assistant Regional Director ment plans and increase the prospects for an equitable resolution of water use U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regions conflicts on theTruckee-Carson Rivers. Region 1; California Hawaii Idaho Nevada Oregon Wasnmgton and Pacific TruslTernlones Region 2: Arizona This will also result in improved effi- New Mexico. Oklahoma and Texas Region 3: Illinois Indiana Iowa Michigan, Minnesota Missouri. Ohio, and Wisconsin Region 4: Alabama Arkansas Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Mississippi North Carolina, South ciency of Stampede Reservoir manage- Carolina Tennessee Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands Region 5: Connecticut Delaware Maine Maryland Massa- ment. In addition to these benefits, chusetts New Hampshire New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont Virginia, and West Virginia Regions: Colorado Kansas Montana Nebraska North Dakota South Dakota Utah and Wyoming Region 7: Alaska survey data will identify the quality of available habitat in proposed areas of' The ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN is published monthly by the major rehabilitation for the cui-ui and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Department of the Interior, Washington. D C. 20240. LCT.

U.S. GOVERNI^ENT PRINTING OFFICE: 381-580 Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) Region 2—One of the adult male the project are biologists from the Ser- local agencies, along with a number of radio-collared ocelots (Felis pardalis) in vice, Institute Nacional de la Pesca conservation organizations, private southeastern Texas was found dead just (Mexico), Sub-Secretaria de Ecologia companies, and individuals, are sum- south of Laguna Atascosa National (Mexico), National Park Service (U.S.), marized in the final listing rule. Among Wildlife Refuge on January 30, 1984. It National Marine Fisheries Service the States that supported Federal listing appeared to have been dead about 4 (U.S.), Texas Parks and Wildlife Depart- of the wood stork are Florida and South Jays when found. An autopsy per- ment, and the Gladys Porter Zoo Carolina; both States already give the Drmed by the Texas Veterinary Medical (Brownsville, Texas). The 1984 field sea- species protection from taking and pro- 'Diagnostic Laboratory at College Sta- son will be the seventh year of this 10- vide for certain conservation efforts tion, Texas, revealed that the animal year project. under their own endangered and threat- probably died of distemper or acute ened species legislation. The Federal pneumonia. Distemper is known to be listing under the Endangered Species present in the south Texas environment; Region 7—A biological assessment Act brings additional conservation and however, the weather conditions for examining the impacts of the Red Dog recovery benefits. January would have been more condu- Mine project on the Endangered Arctic As an Endangered species, the U.S. cive to development of pneumonia. A peregrine falcon {Faico peregrinus tun- breeding population of the wood stork nearby radio-collared male immediately drius) has been received from the Envi- receives all of the protection authorized moved into the dead animal's formerter- ronmental Protection Agency. Extraction under the Act. Taking, possessing, ritory. Nine radio-collared ocelots, three of the estimated 85 million tons of lead, transporting, and engaging in interstate males and six females, are still being zinc, and silver ore from this remote, or international trade in this species are followed on the refuge, while two males roadless area 100 miles northwest of among the activities prohibited. (Per- have been collared on private lands. Kotzebue in arctic Alaska, will require mits are available for certain scientific, the establishment of a complete, self- conservation, and economic hardship contained facility necessary to mine the cases.) Although a formal designation of A draft Alligator Management Plan ore, concentrate the metals, transport Critical Habitat was not included in the has been received from the State of the metals to a saltwater port, and house listing rule, the stork and its habitat will Texas. This plan was part of the agree- 250-500 workers. Construction of small receive all of the protection authorized ment that resulted in the alligator in dams and an overland transportation under Section 7 of the Endangered Spe- Texas {Alligator mississippiensis) being corridor 55-70 miles in length is pro- cies Act. Federal agencies are required downlisted to Threatened by Similarity posed, as well as an airstrip and coastal to ensure that any actions they fund, of Appearance. After completion and port facility. authorize, or carry out are not likely to approval of its management plan, the Consideration was given to the pere- jeopardize the survival of the wood stork Texas Parks and Wildlife Department grine falcon early in project planning, by directly affecting the birds or by plans to initiate an annual limited season and recent surveys have identified pere- adversely modifying their habitat. The for taking alligators. grine use areas. Although there are still Federal agency primarily affected by * * * concerns about the project's effects on Section 7 provisions is the U.S. Army water quality, fisheries, migrating cari- Corps of Engineers, which now must Personnel changes within the bou (Ranglfertarandus), and the Endan- take the wood stork into account in issu- Southwest Bald Eagle Recovery Team gered bowhead {Balaena mysticetus) ing permits for the discharge of dredge lave recently been made. The team is and gray whales {Eschrlchthius robus- or fill material into U.S. waters. Similarly, now composed of Richard L. Glinski, tus), we are optimistic that impacts on Environmental Protection Agency per- nongame biologist, Arizona Game and the peregrine falcon will be minimal. mitting activities undertheNationalPol- Fish Department, leader; Jennifer lutant Discharge Elimination System Fowler, FWS biologist, Ecological Ser- will have to consider the welfare of the vices Field Office, Phoenix; Dave Busch, species. wildlife biologist. Bureau of Reclama- tion, Boulder City, Nevada; and Erwin Other benefits to the wood stork of the Boeker, representing the National Wood Stork listing are a wider public knowledge of Audubon Society. Glinski replaces its reduced status, possible Federal funding of State conservation programs Duane Rubink (FWS) as leader. Boeker continued from page 1 returns to the team after having served for the species, and the development of from 1976 to 1978 as the team leader and has caused adult birds to leave their a recovery plan. the FWS representative. The Southwest nests, exposing the eggs to predators Bald Eagle Recovery Team assists in and the elements. overseeing implementation of therecov- Breeding wood storks in the U.S. are Finding on Alligator ery plan, which was signed in 1982. now restricted to parts of Florida, south- eastern Georgia, and South Carolina. Snapping Turtle (Formerly, nesting occurred also in A working group of the Kemp's ridley Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Ala- Petition sea turtle {Lepidochelys kempii) project bama.) The remaining U.S. breeding After a review of the available biologi- met in Albuquerque to review 1983 population of the wood stork is separate cal information on the status of the alli- results and plan for the 1984 field sea- from the population that breeds from gator snapping turtle {Macroclemys son. The Kemp's ridley project protects Mexico southward to Argentina. Wood temmincki), the Service has concluded sea turtle eggs on Rancho Nuevo Beach, storks from Mexico disperse into Cali- that a proposal to list this species as Tamaulipas, Mexico, incubates up to fornia and Texas after nesting; however, Endangered or Threatened is not justi- 2,000 eggs, and imprints the resulting only the southeastern U.S. population fied at this time (F.R. 2/29/83). The hatchlings briefly on the beach at Padre needs Endangered Species Act protec- review was carried out in response to a Island National Seashore, Texas. The tion at this time. February 23, 1983, listing petition from imprinted hatchlings are then "head- On February 28,1983, theService pro- Dr. Peter C.H. Pritchard. started" at Galveston, Texas, to give posed listing the U.S. breeding popula- The alligator snapping turtle is the them a better chance for survival when tion of the wood stork as Endangered • largest freshwater turtle in North Amer- released. It is hoped that the released (see feature in BULLETIN Vol. VIII No. ica. Adult specimens can weigh up to female turtles will return to Padre Island 3). The comments received in response to nest when they mature. Included in to the proposal from Federal, State, and continued on page 8

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) Two Foreign Reptiles Listed, One Delisted

Two species of lizards found on habitat by construction of tourist devel- might support the listing, and the islands under Spanish jurisdiction have opments are serious threats on some of unanimous response was that there was been listed by the Service as Endan- the islands. Overcollection for scientific no justification for retaining the turtle's gered and Threatened due to threats and commercial purposes, hybridiza- listed status. The species in fact may b| from habitat destruction, overcollection, tion of subspecies transported among the most abundant freshwater turtle i' and predation (F.R. 2/29/84). In the the islands, and predation by gulls, rats, India. After studying the data, the Ser- same notice, the Service removed from and feral cats are other factors that have vice concluded that the Indian flap- the U.S. List of Endangered and Threat- had an adverse impact on the majority of shelled turtle is neither Endangered nor ened Wildlife a turtle that is now known Ibiza wall lizard populations. Threatened, and the species has been to occur widely throughout India and Sri The Indian flap-shelled turtle (Lis- removed from the list. Lanka. semys punctata punctata) is a 15 to 28 As Endangered and Threatened spe- The HIerro giant lizard {Gallotia cm brown, soft-shelled species found on cies, both the Hierro giant lizard and the simonyi simonyi), now listed as Endan- the Indian subcontinent and on Sri Ibiza wall lizard nowreceiveU.S. protec- gered, is a large (up to 70 cm total Lanka. Its original listing as Endangered tion under the Endangered Species Act. length) herbivorous species that occurs was based on a recommendation by It is illegal for any person subject to U.S. only in the Canary Islands. Its known Bangladesh that the species beincluded jurisdiction to take, possess, transport, range consists of a single arid cliffside on Appendix I of the Convention on or traffic in these reptiles except under where, in 1975, an estimated total popu- International Trade in Endangered Spe- permit. Such permits are available under lation of 200 lizards survived. Assuming cies of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). As 50CFR 17.22-17.23 and 17.32 for certain it still exists, the population is threat- a result of its inclusion on Appendix I of scientific, conservation, or economic ened by: 1)a proposed stone-breaking CITES, the Service subsequently (1976) hardship purposes. In addition, the plant that could directly affect the listed the turtle as Endangered. How- Department of the Interior is authorized lizards and coat their food plants with ever, as part of the Service's continuing by Section 8 of the Act to provide assist- dust; 2) competition with goats grazing effort to ensure that the legal status of ance to Spain for the conservation of the the area; 3) possible overcollecting; and listed species reflects their true biologi- species. With regard to the Indian flap- 4) potential predation on juveniles by cal status, a literature review on this tur- shelled turtle, the provisions of the Act gulls. tle was recently conducted. No no longer apply; however, the removal The Ibiza wall lizard (Podarcis pityu- supporting evidence justifying Endan- from protection under the Act does not sensis), listed as Threatened, is a small gered classification could be found. The affect its CITES status, and it remains lizard found in the Balearic Islands. Service then contacted a number of subject to Appendix I trade restrictions. Alteration and destruction of the lizard's scientists to determine what field data

Endangered Classification for Woodland Caribou Becomes Permanent

The temporary protection given ear- radio-tracking studies and other survey The southern Selkirk Mountain herd lier to a population of woodland caribou work conducted since January 1983. was first classified as Endangered in a {Rangifer tarandus caribou) was made Although this number is slightly higher temporary emergency listing published permanent recently when the popula- than previous estimates, it reflects better in the January 14, 1983, Federal Regis- tion was listed in a final rule as Endan- field data ratherthan population growth. ter. A proposal for a final listing was pub- gered (F.R. 2/28/84). Sometimes known The southern Selkirk Mountain herd of lished on June 22, 1983; however, as the southern Selkirk Mountain herd, woodland caribou can still be ranked as because a final rule was not completed these animals comprise the only popula- one of our Nation's most critically before the first emergency listing rule tion of caribou that still regularly occurs Endangered mammals. expired, a second emergency rule was in the conterminous United States. The Any additional losses in the popula- published on October 25,1983. The Feb- herd ranges over parts of extreme north- tion could be disastrous to its survival, ruary 28, 1984, final rule gives the herd eastern Washington, northern Idaho, yet the potential for such losses is permanent protection. and southern British Columbia. Poach- increasing. Timber cutting, if not prop- Under the Endangered classification, ing, habitat loss, collisions with motor erly planned, could significantly impact the southern Selkirk Mountain herd of vehicles, and genetic problems from caribou by reducing escape cover, woodland caribou will receive the pro- inbreeding threaten the very small pop- migration corridors, and lichen (food tection authorized by the Endangered ulation with extinction. It had earlier plant) production. Illegal shooting has Species Act. Taking, possessing, trans- been listed as Endangered under two also been a continuing problem. porting, and interstate or international temporary emergency actions (see fea- Poachers killed at least one animal from trafficking in this mammal are prohi- ture story in BULLETIN Vol. VIII No. 1). this population each year from 1980 to bited except under Federal permit for Woodland caribou once occupied 1983, and similar losses also occurred in certain scientific, conservation, and nearly the entire forested region from previous years. Construction of roads economic hardship purposes. A desig- southeastern Alaska, through much of through the habitat could aggravate the nation of Critical Habitat was not Canada, to the northern conterminous poaching problem, and increase the included in the rule because printing the States. Due to unrestricted shooting and chances for caribou/vehicle collisions. required maps could make the small extensive habitat alteration, however, Since the very small population is iso- herd even more vulnerable to poaching; only the southern Selkirk Mountain herd lated and, therefore, has no genetic nevertheless, the herd will receive the survives in the conterminous U.S. (Cari- exchange with other herds, the southern full habitat protection authorized under bou numbers in Canada, though still Selkirk Mountain caribou likely suffer Section 7 of the Act. Federal agencies^ substantial, also have been declining.) the effects of inbreeding. Such a condi- must ensure that any actions they au- Only about 30 individuals are thought to tion could be responsible for low calf thorize, fund, or carry out are not likely remain in the herd, based on recent survival in the herd. to jeopardize the survival of the species

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) by directly affecting the animals or adversely affecting their habitat. Most of the habitat of the southern Selkirk Mountain herd is on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USPS). The list- ing is not expected to have substantial pffect on timber production since the JSFS is already using caribou manage- ment guidelines to design timber sales in caribou habitat. Certain logging prac- tices, if properly planned, could even prove to enhance the habitat's value to the caribou by encouraging the growth of food and cover plants. Other benefits to the caribou of the listing include more law enforcement protection, possible funding for State endangered species conservation programs under Section 6 of the Act, and development of a recov- ery plan to return the herd to a viable, self-sustaining status. Ash Meadows Becomes Nature This unnamed pool in southern Ash Meadows is representative of how the Preserve valley appeared before human impacts on the fragile ecosystem. Ash Meadows, Nevada, a unique milk-vetch {Astragalus phoenix), Ash agement agreements could not be desert wetland ecosystem, has been Meadows sunray {Enceliopsis nudicau- agreed upon. The Nature Conservancy purchased by The Nature Conservancy lis), and Amargosa niterwort {Nitrophiia (TNC) stepped in with another for protection as a nature preserve. Until mohavensis). At the same time, an approach. TNC exercised its option for a recently, this oasis in the Mojave Desert endemic aquatic insect, the Ash Mead- willing-seller purchase of the develop- was subject to development that could ows naucorid (Ambrysus amargosus), ers' 12,663 acres in Ash Meadows, with have resulted in extinction for its unu- also was proposed for listing as Endan- the understanding of Federal repur- sual wildlife and plant resources. Con- gered. (All eight proposed species were chase. The final price was $5.5 million gress has appropriated funds to covered in BULLETIN Vol. VIII No. 11). and a $1 million low-interest loan. Con- 3imburse the Conservancy and make Ash Meadows also has an extraordinar- gress has thus far appropriated $5 mil- ^sh Meadows part of the Fish and Wild- ily diverse endemic freshwater mollusk lion to purchase land at Ash Meadows life Service's National Wildlife Refuge fauna, including eight species that are and establish it as a national wildlife System. candidates for future listing. refuge. The Ash Meadows ecosystem is made The Ash Meadows wetlands are fed by TNC is a nonprofit, national member- up of several dozen springs and seeps an aquifer consisting in part of "fossil ship organization devoted to the conser- scattered throughout a valley about 70 water" that entered the underlying por- vation of ecologically significant areas. miles northwest of Las Vegas (see fea- ous limestone more than 10,000 years The more than 700 areas it owns or man- ture in BULLETIN Vol. VII No. 6). Due to ago. During the Pleistocene Epoch, an ages total 400,000 acres, making up the their isolation in a desert where the aver- extensive system of interconnecting riv- world's largest non-government nature age rainfall is only about 70 mm (less ers and lakes covered the region. As the sanctuary system. than 3 inches), the thermal springs of climate changed and surface waters Ash Meadows contain the highest con- receded, aquatic animals were left centration of endemic plant and animal stranded in isolated springs and out- species in the continental United States. flows. Adapting to their distinct "island" Four fishes found nowhere else, the ecosystems, these organisms under- Devils Hole pupfish {Cyprinodon diabo- went rapid speciation in circumstances Two Florida Keys lis), Warm Springs pupfish (C. nevaden- that some biologists describe as a land- sis pectoralis), Ash Meadows Amargosa locked Galapagos Islands. Mammals Proposed pupfish (C. n. mionectes), and Ash Until recently, a real estate develop- Meadows speckled dace {Rhinichthys ment company, the Preferred Equities as Endangered osculus nevadensis), are listed as Corporation (PEC), had plans to estab- Endangered. Another, the Ash Meadows lish a large residential, recreational, Two small mammals that are endemic killifish {Empetrichthys merriami), industrial, and agricultural community to part of northern Key Largo, Florida, became extinct a number of years ago, on its holdings in Ash Meadows. Con- have been proposed for listing by the probably due to the introduction of struction and development of the com- Service as Endangered species (F.R. exotic species. plex would have directly eliminated 2/9/84). The Key Largo cotton mouse Seven plants in the Ash Meadows large sections of essential plant and {Peromyscus gossypinus aliapaticoia) ecosystem were proposed on October animal habitat. Even worse, diversion of and Key Largo woodrat (Neotoma flori- 13, 1983, for listing as Endangered: the surface waters and excessive ground dana smaili) are in danger of extinction spring-loving centaury {Centaurium water pumping would have destroyed from destruction of their tropical hard- ^amophilum var. namophilum), Ash the wetlands system, virtually ensuring wood hammock forest habitat for resi- leadows gumplant {Grindelia fraxino- the extinction of Ash Meadows' already dential and commercial development. 'pratensis). Ash Meadows ivesia {Ivesia rare plant, fish, and invertebrate life. Both species were listed in fall 1983 as eremica), Ash Meadows blazing star When conservation alternatives such as {Mentzelia leucophylla), Ash Meadows land exchanges, easements, and man- continued on page 6

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) tection they now receive lapses. Federal any other populations. In 1976, the snail Two Florida agencies will no longer be required to darter was listed by the Service as an consult with the Service on such proj- Endangered Species, and 16.5 river Mammals ects in the future. miles of the Little Tennessee River were If the listing rule is approved, both the designated as Critical Habitat. However, continued from page 5 Key Largo cotton mouse and woodrat in 1979, Congress exempted TVA's Little will be given permanent protection Tennessee River Tellico Reservoir Prc^^ under the Endangered Species Act. Pro- ject from the provisions of the Endan^^ Endangered under a temporary emer- hibitions against taking, possessing, gered Species Act, and the species' gency rule, but this classification is due transporting, and interstate or interna- shallow, free-flowing habitat was conse- to expire on May 18, 1984. The February tional trade in these species are among quently inundated. Since the spawning 9, 1984, proposed listing rule, if approved, the conservation measures authorized and feeding areas were flooded, the will give these animals permanent pro- by the Act. (Permits for otherwise population was no longer self- tection under the Endangered Species prohibited activities are available for sustaining. Some of the fish were cap- Act. certain scientific, conservation, or eco- tured and stocked into other streams Tropical hardwood hammocks are a nomic hardship purposes.) Federal that contained similar habitat, but only climax vegetational type that develops a agencies will be required to ensure that the Hiwassee River introduction closed canopy when mature, providing a any actions they fund, authorize, or appears successful. more moderate, humid environment carry out are not likely to jeopardize the Since completion of the Tellico Pro- than the surrounding habitats. They survival of these mammals or adversely ject, isolated populations of the snail support a rich biota, including many rare modify their Critical Habitat. darter have been discovered in sections plant and animal species. For example, The proposed Critical Habitat of the of six Tennessee River tributaries and the Schaus swallowtail butterfly {Papilio Key Largo cotton mouse and woodrat from the main stem of the Tennessee aristodemus ponceanus), listed by the consists of approximately 2,000 acres River near the mouth of three tributaries. Service as Threatened, is associated (810 hectares) of fragmented upland Unfortunately, most of these popula- with hammocks in northern Key Largo. hardwood hammock habitat. About 850 tions are extremely small and their habi- Eight species of native plants found in of these acres are not currently occu- tat is subject to degradation from water the area are listed by Florida under its pied by the mammals but are considered pollution, siltation, dredging, and con- own endangered species legislation. essential for their conservation and struction of port facilities. In 1982, the Florida also lists the cotton mouse and eventual recovery. It should be empha- Snail Darter Recovery Team evaluated woodrat as endangered, but the State sized that a Critical Habitat designation the new data and recommended thatthe law does not authorize habitat does not necessarily stop any particular species' biological status be recognized protection. kind of Federal activity; rather, it means as Threatened. A reclassification to Although tropical hardwood ham- that any impact of federally involved Threatened, instead of a complete mocks were originally found from Key activities on listed species will be delisting, is thought more appropriate West northward into southern peninsu- considered in the planning process. If by both the Service and the recovery lar Florida, so many have been de- there would be jeopardy to a species, team since the snail darter's habitat i^^ stroyed that this is one of the most modification of the proposed activity, still vulnerable and in need of some Fed|^^ limited and threatened ecosystem types not curtailment, is the usual remedy. eral protection. The conservation agen^^ in the State. The hammocks on northern cies of Alabama, Georgia, and Key Largo comprise some of the largest Tennessee support a reclassification, as remaining tracts. Both the Key Largo does the National Wildlife Federation. cotton mouse and woodrat are rare or Snail Darter Since there were no special rules absent in areas where habitat modifica- Proposed for included in the reclassification pro- tion has occurred. Because of their posal, the snail darter would continue to dependence on undisturbed habitat, Reclassification to receive generally the same protection as they are restricted to only 1,150 acres at a Threatened species that it now the less developed northern end of the Threatened receives under the Endangered classifi- island. cation. 6ne exception is that a slightly Even this remaining habitat is vulnera- The Service has published a proposal broader range of permits is available for ble. A new water aqueduct to the Florida to reclassify the snail darter {Percina Threatened species under 50 CFR 17.32. Keys is being completed, and a spur tanasi), a small fish known only from Taking, possessing, and trafficking in pipeline now extends into northern Key parts of the Tennessee River drainage, this species would still be prohibited Largo. The increased availability of from its current Endangered classifica- except by special permit. water is expected to accelerate the pace tion to the less restrictive category of Included in the reclassification pro- of residential, commercial, and recrea- Threatened (F.R. 2/21/84). Recent field posal is a provision that would rescind tional development. Further, the Florida surveys have located additional small the snail darter's original designated Keys Electrical Cooperative has populations of this species, and the Critical Habitat in the Little Tennessee requested a Federal loan for construc- Threatened classification is thought to River since it has been rendered useless tion of a substation to increase electrical more accurately reflect its true biologi- to the fish by the Tellico dam and reser- delivery to northern Key Largo, which cal status. Because of habitatvulnerabil- voir. No new designations of Critical could hasten development even more. In ity, however, the Service does not Habitat were included in the proposal order to ensure that the conservation of believe that a complete delisting of the since publicizing the exact locations the Key Largo cotton mouse and wood- snail darter is warranted, and it will con- could make this controversial species rat would receive consideration in tinue to receive protection as a Threat- vulnerable to vandalism. Nevertheless, reaching a decision on the loan applica- ened species. the snail darter's habitat would continue tion, these small mammals were listed as The snail darter was unknown until to receive protection under Section Endangered under an emergency rule the first collection in 1973. At that time, 7(a)(2) of the Act, which requires Fed- on September 21, 1983 (See BULLETIN the only known habitat for this species eral agencies to ensure that any actions Vol. VIII No. 10). Subsequently, the Ser- was a short section of the Little Tennes- they fund, authorize, or carry out are no| vice found that the proposed electrical see River. Widespread surveys con- likely to jeopardize the continued exist- delivery system would jeopardize the ducted by the Tennessee Valley ence of a species by directly affecting it two species. However, if the habitat pro- Authority (TVA) in the 1970s did not find or adversely modifying its habitat.

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) Comments on the proposal are invited vegetation. The vulnerability of both provided under the Act are prohibitions from all Interested agencies, organiza- plants is magnified by their extremely on transporting and interstate or inter- tions, and individuals, and are duetothe low numbers; a recent estimate put the national trade in these plants. A recov- Field Supervisor, Asheville Endangered Bidens cuneata population at only 10 ery plan will be developed for both Species Field Station, U.S. Fish and mature plants, and the Schiedea ada- species, and funding could be allocated Wildlife Service, 100 Otis Street, Room mantis level only slightly higher at 78. under Section 6 of the Act for State con- 24, Asheville, North Carolina 28801 by Both species were proposed a second servation efforts. A formal designation Ipril 23, 1984. time for listing as Endangered on of Critical Habitat was not included in August 23, 1982. (For a summary of Ser- the listing rule because publicizing the vice efforts since 1976 to conserve these exact locations of the populations could plants, see the Federal Register notice make them more vulnerable to vandal- or BULLETIN Vol. VII No. 9.) Comments ism and accidental habitat damage by Hawaiian Plants received from the Governor of Hawai'i curiosity seekers. Nevertheless, both and several local offices of Federal species are covered under Section 7 of continued from page 1 agencies were all in favor of the listing the Act. All Federal agencies must could v^^ipe out the Schiedea and dam- proposal. ensure that any actions they fund, au- age the BIdens population. Another As listed species, Bidens cuneata and thorize, or carry out are not likely to constant threat to both taxa, as w/ell as Schiedea adamantis now receive pro- jeopardize the survival of the two spe- much of Hawaii's other native flora, is tection under the Endangered Species cies by directly affecting the plants or by competition from aggressive exotic Act. Among the protective measures adversely modifying their habitat.

(CITES). Management Authority respon- species. The Service's Office of the Scien- CITES News sibilities are delegated to the Associate tific Authority (OSA) functions as staff to the Director—Federal Assistance; Scientific U.S. Scientific Authority for CITES. OSA Authority responsibilities are delegated to reviews applications to export and import The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as the Associate Director—Research. species protected under CITES, reviews the amended in 1979, designates the Secretary The Service's Wildlife Permit Office (WPO) status of wild animals and plants impacted of the Interior as both the f^anagement functions as staff to the U.S. fvlanagement by trade, makes certain findings concern- Authority and the Scientific Authority of the Authority for CITES, assuring that wM/fe ing housing and care of protected United States, for the purposes of the Con- and plants are exported or imported In com- specimens, and advises on trade controls. vention on International Trade in En- pliance with laws for their protection and is- dangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora suing permits for legal trade of these

^inal Export Rules on Certain Comments Requested on Appendix II Species CITES Amendments Exports of wildlife and plants listed announced a final rule approving under Appendix II of CITES may occur exports of the bobcat (Lynx rufus), lynx The Convention on International only if the country of origin has issued (Lynx canadensis), and river otter fLufra Trade in Endangered Species of Wild an export document. Two new multi- canadensis) legally taken during the Fauna and Flora (CITES) regulates year export rules on certain Appendix II 1983-84 seasons from specific United trade in certain wild animal and plant species in the United States have been States populations, along with the gray species, which are listed in appendices published. wolf (Canis lupus) and brown or grizzly to this treaty. Any nation that is a Party to A final rule approving the export of bear (Ursus arctos) from Alaskan popu- CITES may propose amendments to American alligators (Alligator mississip- lations only. Exports from certain States Appendices I and II for consideration by piensis) lawfully taken in Louisiana and that met Scientific and Management the other Parties. Florida during the 1983-85 seasons was Authority criteria were found to be not The Service has announced plans to published by the Service in the January detrimental to the survival of the species develop proposals to amend Appendi- 9, 1984, Federal Register. This decision in these respective States. Compliance ces I and II for the United States. Com- was based on the findings by the U.S. with State documentation and CITES ments from the public on animal or plant CITES Scientific and Management tagging requirements will continueto be species that should be considered as Authorities that such alligator exports enforced for exports of these species. candidates for U.S. proposals are will not be detrimental to the survival of For further information on the States invited. Such proposals may concern the species in either State. Formerly, and species involved, consult the Janu- the addition of species to Appendix I or such findings and rules were developed ary 5, 1984, Federal Register. II, the transfer of species from one on a year-to-year basis covering single CITES export documents issued by appendix to another, or the removal of harvest seasons. the Federal Wildlife Permit Office are species from Appendix I or II. The Ser- The Service will continue to monitor required to export any CITES species vice will consider all information and the status of the American alligator pop- from the United States. Further, CITES comments received by June 1, 1984, in ulations in Louisiana and Florida, and documents are required from the coun- determining whether it should develop will regulate trade in products derived try of origin in order to import any CITES proposals on particular species. Please from legally taken animals through tag- species into the United States. For send correspondence to the Office of ging of hides and documentation of further information, contact the Federal Scientific Authority, U.S. Fish and Wild- ihipments. General approval for alliga- Wildlife Permit Office, U.S. Fish and life Service, Washington, D.C. 20240. 3r exports from any other States is not Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 3654, Arling- Copies of the current CITES appendices •granted under the January 9, 1984, rule. ton, Virginia 22203 (telephone 703/235- are available from the Federal Wildlife In a Federal Register notice published 1903). Permit Office, U.S. Fish and WildlifeSer- on January 5, 1984, the Service vice, Washington, D.C. 20240.

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984) Alligator BOX SCORE OF LISTINGS/RECOVERY PLANS Snapping Turtle ENDANGERED 1 THREATENED SPECIES Category U.S. U.S. & Foreign j U.S. U.S. & Foreign SPECIES- HAVING continued from page 3 Only Foreign Only 1 Only Foreign Only TOTAL PLANS almost 300 pounds with a carapace Mammals 15 19 233 ; 3 0 22 292 19 (shell) length of 80 cm. This species can Birds 52 14 144 1 3 0 0 213 42 be distinguished from other snapping Reptiles 8 6 60 ! 8 4 13 99 6 turtles by its size, its wedge-shaped Amphibians 5 0 8: 3 0 0 16 4 head, and the three prominent ridges Fishes 30 3 11 1 12 1 0 57 23 that extend down the carapace. Alligator Snails 3 0 ) ! 5 0 0 9 5 snapping turtles are fish-eating ambush Clams 22 0 0 0 24 1 ^ 1 0 predators; a turtle will sit in wait, luring Crustaceans 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 4 1 its prey by mimicking a worm with its Insects 7 0 0 1 4 2 0 13 3 long tongue. Plants 58 3 9 2 2 74 10 " 1 The species' range extends down the TOTAL 202 45 449 1 48 9 37 801 124** Mississippi River drainage from Iowa, •Separate populations of species, listed both as Endangered and Th eatened, are tallied Illinois, and Kansas south to the Gulf of tvi^ice Species which are thus accounted for are the gray wolf, bald eagle, American Mexico, and from Texas east to northern alligator, green sea turtle, Olive rldley sea turtle, and leopard. Florida. Because of its large range and very secretive behavior, its status is not • • More than one species may be covered by some plans well known, but there is concern that Number of Recovery Plans approved; 110 habitat destruction and overcollecting Number of species currently proposed for listing: 22 animals for human consumption may be having 23 plants an impact on some populations. The Number of Species with Critical Habitats determined: 59 Service has been concerned about the Number of Cooperative Agreements signed with States: 38 fish & wildlife status of the alligator snapping turtle for some time, and the species was included February 29.1984 ^^ plants in the Review of Vertebrate Wildlife for Listing as Endangered or Threatened Species (F.R. 12/30/82). Although the information gathered by the Service in marine mammals, including those that response to the vertebrate notice of are Endangered or Threatened, has Attention review and Dr. Pritchard's petition is not been petitioned to listtheGuadalupefur sufficient to propose the alligator snap- seal {Arctocephalus townsendi) as an Readers ping turtle for listing at this time, the Endangered species (F.R. 2/8/84). Since If you are receiving a duplicate copy of Service will continue to monitor its the petition from Mr. Richard T. Tinney, the BULLETIN, or if your office con-( status. Jr., of the Center for Environmental Edu- tinues to receive copies addressed to cation's Seal Rescue Fund, was judged individuals no longer employed by your to contain substantial scientific informa- agency, please let us know so that we Guadalupe Fur tion indicating that the action may be can eliminate these entries from our warranted, a status review was initiated. mailing list. Please refer to the zip code Seal Petitioned Comments and scientific data on this as well as to the addressee when you call for Listing seal's status are due to the Assistant or write regarding changes in the mail- Administrator for Fisheries, National ing list. Thank you. Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- The National Marine FisheriesService —The Editor (Department of Commerce), which has tion, National Marine Fisheries Service, management jurisdiction over most Washington, D.C. 20235 by April 9,1984.

March 1984 Vol. IX No. 3 EMIi ••• —

Dl iIIa^iM Department of Interior. U.S. FIsn and Wildlife Service T€CnrilCal DUIICLin endangered Species program, wasnington, D.C. 20240 POSTAGE AND FEES PAID US DEPARTIvlENT OF THE INTERIOR Int 423

Endangered Species Technical Bulletin, Vol. IX No. 3 (1984)