Table of Contents

Message From the Director: Peregrine falcons reach record 12 pairs ...... 19 Sharpening Conservation’s Focus ...... 1 Peregrine facts ...... 19 Wildlife Diversity Section ...... 2 A “tern” for the better at Gibson Lake ...... 20 Osprey reproduction is up; Funding the Projects of the WDS ...... 3 32 birds released ...... 21 Indiana’s Species in Peril ...... 4 Sandhills and whoopers just passing through ...... 21 Top News for 2005 ...... 5 How many whoopers? ...... 22 Land Stewardship ...... 6 Barn owls at record number of sites ...... 23 Indiana’s Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy: ...... 8 Can you help a barn owl find a home? ...... 24 Amphibians and Reptiles Breeding Bird Atlas in Indiana ...... 24 Herp sampling: Nongame bird conservation inititiatives ...... 24 Determining what’s in Indiana ...... 9 The skinny on crawfish frogs Mammals and mole salamanders ...... 9 Changes in administrative rules and state listings ...... 25 North American Amphibian Monitoring Program ...... 10 Record number of Indiana bats counted ...... 25 Frog surveys: A great way to date ...... 11 Managing Indiana bat winter hibernacula . . . . . 26 Snapping turtles: Frankin’s ground squirrel Balancing status and regulations ...... 11 populations patchy ...... 27 Tuning-in to eastern box turtles ...... 11 Allegheny woodrats continue to decline ...... 27 NAAMP volunteer of the year ...... 12 Population genetics of Allegheny woodrats ...... 28 Hellbenders at home in the Blue River ...... 12 River otters removed Controlling invasive wall lizards ...... 12 from state-endangered status ...... 28 Aquatic Species Ecology of bobcats in Lake sturgeon are reproducing south-central Indiana ...... 30 in East Fork White River ...... 13 Bobcats in other parts of Indiana ...... 30 Lake sturgeon spawning facts ...... 13 Statewide freshwater mussel survey ...... 14 Information Resources Web resources ...... 32 Mussel aches: A life down under ...... 16 Indiana’s reptiles and amphibians ...... 32 Birds Biologist scientific reports...... 32 Bald eagle populations still flying high ...... 17 Meet the WDS Staff ...... 33 Indiana’s bald eagle program ...... 17 Supporting Indiana’s Wildlife ...... 35

Cover photo: The conservation of eastern box turtles is a major concern in Indiana; biologists are undertaking major studies of this long-lived species. See story on page 11. (Photo: WDS staff/IDNR) Sharpening Department of Natural Resources director Conservation’s Focus Kyle Hupfer Message From the Director Division of Fish and Wildlife director In 2005, wildlife Fewer endangered species diversity conserva- Glen Salmon 2005 was a year of big successes for the tion came into badger, bobcat and river otter, all of which sharp focus were removed from the Indiana endan- Wildlife Diversity nationally and in gered species list! They still are protected Section chief Indiana. Years species in Indiana, and the Wildlife from now, we’ll Diversity Section and its partners will con- Catherine (Katie) look back on 2005 tinue to monitor them, but it is very as a turning point Gremillion-Smith encouraging to see populations of these for conservation of unique animals moving away from the Indianapolis, nongame wildlife brink. 317-232-8160 and state-endan- [email protected] gered species, when both achieved promi- • Financial and logistical support from nence like never before. partners enabled the highly successful river otter restoration program. Otters Staff specialist The catalyst for change is the were completely absent from Indiana Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy (CWS). when the project began in 1994; now Kacie Ehrenberger they have taken up residence in 63 of Indianapolis, In 2003, as a condition to receive federal Indiana’s 92 counties and are doing funds for wildlife conservation, Congress very well. 317-234-3361 required each state to develop a CWS — a [email protected] • In the 1950s, badgers were reported in report card on the status and distribution only 33 Indiana counties, but studies by of wildlife in each state. More than just WDS staff show that they expanded their Herpetologist grades, these strategies include an analy- range into at least 61 counties from 1994 sis of threats to wildlife and habitat; they to 1996, and additional evidence Zack Walker also identify actions to address these suggests they might be found in as Bloomington, threats. many as 82 counties. 812-334-1137 Congress mandated that each strategy • Bobcats were first listed as state- [email protected] facilitate future coordination of conserva- endangered in 1969, and from 1970 to tion efforts and promote partnerships by 1990, there were only seven confirmed developing the CWS with broad public reports statewide. But populations have rebounded markedly in the last 10 to 15 Aquatic biologist input. To remain eligible for federal funds years, with 84 confirmed reports in 32 under the State Wildlife Grants Program, Brant Fisher different counties (not counting 40 states and territories were required to Edinburgh, individuals that have been captured as submit an acceptable CWS to the U.S. part of an ongoing WDS study). 812-526-5816 Fish and Wildlife Service by October 2005. [email protected] You can help us continue this exciting From 2003 to 2005, the DNR collaborated trend by supporting the Nongame and with more than 100 partners, including Endangered Wildlife Program (See how Avian biologist state and federal agencies, agricultural on page 35.) groups, conservation and sportsmen’s John Castrale groups, academic professionals and other More about this year’s many accomplish- Mitchell, Hoosiers, to undertake this monumental ments are in the following pages, so read 812-849-4586 effort to catalogue the state’s species and on! Our future is bright, and the path to [email protected] habitats. conserving Indiana’s valuable wildlife and habitats much more clear. Collectively we Now, we start on a new journey with our have sharpened our focus on effective Mammal biologist partners to step this broad strategy down conservation, and together we are walk- into more specific wildlife action plans. ing down a path toward a brighter future. Scott Johnson Our goal is to develop new constituents, Bloomington, expand partnerships and work together to 812-334-1137 improve the quality of life for all Hoosiers. We’ll address the needs of all fish and [email protected] wildlife species by better conserving our shared habitats. Kyle J. Hupfer DNR director

1 Wildlife Diversity Section

WDS is responsible for see them in any typical outdoor endangered species. The chief and setting, including your own back- staff specialist both work in the the conservation and yard! Endangered species are ani- Indianapolis DNR offices in the management of over mal species in danger of disap- state government center. Our her- 750 species of pearing from the state, and whose petologist and mammalogist are prospects for survival or recruit- based in Bloomington, our nongame and endan- ment within the state are in imme- ornithologist is in Mitchell, and our gered wildlife. Nongame diate jeopardy. This includes all aquatics biologist is at Atterbury wildlife refers to any animal species classified as endangered Fish and Wildlife area. species that is not traditionally by the federal government that pursued through hunting, fishing occur in Indiana. or for commercial purposes. In Indiana, more than 90 percent of The WDS is part of the Division of the state’s mammals, birds, fish, Fish and Wildlife in the mussels, reptiles and amphibians Department of Natural Resources. are nongame species. Many There currently are six staff mem- nongame species are common bers in the WDS, all with statewide throughout the state — you can responsibilities for nongame and 2 Funding the Projects of the WDS

Funding for Annual contributions the projects to the Indiana of the Wildlife Nongame Fund Diversity Section is generated through the Year Amount Indiana Nongame Contributed Fund. In 1982, the state legislature 1983 $133,000 established the 1984 $265,000 Nongame Fund to be used exclusive- 1985 $275,000 ly for the protec- tion, conservation, 1986 $304,108 management and 1987 $443,427 identification of nongame and 1988 $349,847 endangered species. 1989 $411,112 2004, to December 31, 2005, the Nongame Fund raised $489,610 1990 $433,247 The WDS and Nongame Fund through direct donations and the receive no allocation from state tax check-off. 1991 $394,421 revenues. Since the middle of the last century, the management of State Wildlife Grants: 1992 $413,484 Most WDS game fish and wildlife has been projects are eligible for partial fed- 1993 $384,894 supported by federal aid programs eral funding reimbursement and hunting and fishing license through State Wildlife Grants, a 1994 $396,987 revenues (approximately $7.5 mil- program administered by the U.S. lion per year). Starting in 2001, the 1995 $403,033 Fish and Wildlife Service. However, State Wildlife Grants program has these funds are available only as 1996 $362,909 provided federal aid for nongame reimbursements for expenditures. wildlife ($1 miilion per year). Once projects are approved, they 1997 $388,209 are eligible to receive 50 to 75 per- It also is the responsibility of the 1998 $391,300 cent reimbursement. Donations to WDS to seek partners, contributors the Nongame Fund allow the WDS and grants to fund its projects. 1999 $392,300 to have the initial money needed to Funding is used to provide contin- start the reimbursement cycle. 2000 $449,000 ued support for WDS projects, including land acquisition, habitat 2001 $375,000 restoration, contract research proj- ects and staff. WDS projects are 2002 $392,400 funded by the following: A big thank you! 2003 $390,561 The Wildlife Diversity Section staff thank all Tax check-off and donations: individuals and organizations who have con- 2004 $492,907 Indiana income tax check-off tributed staff, time or financially to support its allows taxpayers to give all or part efforts! We are grateful for your support of 2005 $489,610 of their state refund to nongame nongame conservation. For more information on how you can contribute, see page 35. conservation. Citizens can also donate directly. From January 1, 3 Indiana’s Species in Peril

The following are considered state endangered species or species of special concern. This list is available online at: www.dnr.IN.gov/fish/wildlife/endangered. It is accurate as of December 31, 2005.

Indiana classifications Federal classifications Endangered: Any animal species whose prospects for sur- Endangered: Any species that is in danger of extinction vival or recruitment within the state are in immediate jeopardy throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Federally and are in danger of disappearing from the state. This includes endangered species are designated with (FE). all species classified as endangered by the federal government Threatened: Any species that is likely to become endan- which occur in Indiana. gered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a signifi- Special Concern: Any animal species about which some cant portion of its range. Federally threatened species are des- problems of limited abundance or distribution in Indiana are ignated with (FT). known or suspected and should be closely monitored. Candidate: These species have been submitted for review for protection under the Federal Endangered Species Act. If AMPHIBIANS added to the federal list, they will automatically be considered State Endangered a state-endangered species. Candidates for the federal list are Common name Scientific name designated with (FC). Hellbender Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Four-toed salamander Hemidactylium scutatum Red salamander Pseudotriton ruber FISHES MOLLUSKS Green salamander Aneides aeneus State Endangered Crawfish frog Rana areolata State Endangered Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Northern brook lamprey Ichthyomyzon fossor Longsolid Fusconaia subrotunda State Special Concern Lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens White wartyback (FE) Plethobasus cicatricosus Common name Scientific name Redside dace Clinostomus elongatus Orangefoot pimpleback (FE) Plethobasus cooperianus Common mudpuppy Necturus maculosus Pallid shiner Hybopsis amnis Sheepnose (FC) Plethobasus cyphyus Blue-spotted salamander Ambystoma laterale Greater redhorse Moxostoma valenciennesi Clubshell (FE) Pleurobema clava Eastern spadefoot toad Scaphiopus holbrookii Northern cavefish Amblyopsis spelaea Rough pigtoe (FE) Pleurobema plenum Northern cricket frog Acris crepitans Bantam sunfish Lepomis symmetricus Pyramid pigtoe Pleurobema rubrum Northern leopard frog Rana pipiens Variegate darter Etheostoma variatum Rabbitsfoot Quadrula cylindrica cylindrica Plains leopard frog Rana blairi Channel darter Percina copelandi Eastern fanshell (FE) Cyprogenia stegaria Gilt darter Percina evides White catspaw (FE) Epioblasma obliquata perobliqua BIRDS Northern riffleshell (FE) Epioblasma torulosa rangiana State Endangered State Special Concern Tubercled blossom (FE) Epioblasma torulosa torulosa Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Snuffbox Epioblasma triquetra Trumpeter swan Cygnus buccinator Pugnose shiner Notropis anogenus Pink mucket (FE) Lampsilis abrupta American bittern Botaurus lentiginosus Bigmouth shiner Notropis dorsalis Fat pocketbook (FE) Potamilus capax Least bittern Ixobrychus exilis Longnose dace Rhinichthys cataractae Black-crowned night-heron Nycticorax nycticorax Longnose sucker Catostomus catostomus State Special Concern Yellow-crowned night-heron Nyctanassa violacea Northern madtom Noturus stigmosus Common name Scientific name Ohio river muskellunge Esox masquinongy ohioensis Osprey Pandion haliaetus Ohio pigtoe Pleurobema cordatum Cisco Coregonus artedi Bald eagle (FT) Haliaeetus leucocephalus Salamander mussel Simpsonaias ambigua Lake whitefish Coregonus clupeaformis Northern harrier Circus cyaneus Wavyrayed lampmussel Lampsilis fasciola Trout-perch Percopsis omiscomaycus Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus Round hickorynut Obovaria subrotunda Slimy sculpin Cottus cognatus Black rail Laterallus jamaicensis Kidneyshell Ptychobranchus fasciolaris Banded pygmy sunfish Elassoma zonatum King rail Rallus elegans Purple lilliput Toxolasma lividus Western sand darter Ammocrypta clara Virginia rail Rallus limicola Ellipse Venustaconcha ellipsiformis Spotted darter Etheostoma maculatum Common moorhen Gallunula chloropus Rayed bean (FC) Villosa fabalis Cypress darter Etheostoma proeliare Whooping crane (FE) Grus americana Little spectaclecase Villosa lienosa Tippecanoe darter Etheostoma tippecanoe Piping plover (FE) Charadrius melodus Pointed campeloma Campeloma decisum Upland sandpiper Bartramia longicauda Swamp lymnaea Lymnaea stagnalis Least tern (FE) Sterna antillarum MAMMALS Black tern Chlidonias niger State Endangered Barn owl Tyto alba Common name Scientific name REPTILES Short-eared owl Asio flammeus Southeastern myotis Myotis austroriparius Loggerhead shrike Lanius ludovicianus State Endangered Gray myotis (FE) Myotis grisescens Sedge wren Cistothorus platensis Common name Scientific name Indiana myotis (FE) Myotis sodalis Marsh wren Cistothorus palustris Alligator snapping turtle Macrochelys temminckii Evening bat Nycticeius humeralis Golden-winged warbler Vermivora chrysoptera Eastern mud turtle Kinosternon subrubrum Swamp rabbit Sylvilagus aquaticus Kirtland’s warbler (FE) Dendroica kirtlandii Spotted turtle Clemmys guttata Franklin’s ground squirrel Spermophilus franklinii Henslow’s sparrow Ammodramus henslowii Blanding’s turtle Emydoidea blandingii Allegheny woodrat Neotoma magister Yellow-headed blackbird Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus Ornate box turtle Terrapene ornata Hieroglyphic river cooter Pseudemys concinna State Special Concern State Special Concern Butler’s garter snake Thamnophis butleri Common name Scientific name Common name Scientific name Copperbelly water snake (FT) Nerodia erythrogaster Pygmy shrew Sorex hoyi (northern population) Great egret Ardea alba Smoky shrew Sorex fumeus Kirtland’s snake Clonophis kirtlandii Mississippi kite Ictinia mississippiensis Star-nosed mole Condylura cristata Smooth green snake Liochlorophis vernalis Sharp-shinned hawk Accipiter striatus Little brown myotis Myotis lucifugus Scarlet snake Cemophora coccinea Red-shouldered hawk Buteo lineatus Northern myotis Myotis septentrionalis Southeastern crowned snake Tantilla coronata Broad-winged hawk Buteo platypterus Silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans Cottonmouth moccasin Agkistrodon piscivorus Sandhill crane Grus canadensis Eastern pipistrelle Pipistrellus subflavus Massasauga (FC) Sistrurus catenatus Common nighthawk Chordeiles minor Red bat Lasiurus borealis Timber rattlesnake Crotalus horridus Whip-poor-will Caprimulgus vociferus Hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus Cerulean warbler Dendroica cerulea Rafinesque’s big-eared bat Corynorhinus rafinesquii Black-and-white warbler Mniotilta varia State Special Concern Plains pocket gopher Geomys bursarius Worm-eating warbler Helmitheros vermivorus Common name Scientific name Least weasel Mustela nivalis Hooded warbler Wilsonia citrina Western ribbon snake Thamnophis proximus Western meadowlark Sturnella neglecta Rough green snake Opheodrys aestivus 4 Top News for 2005 What’sWhat’s InsideInside INSIDE

After decades of trying, DNR purchased the 8,000-acre Goose Pond in Greene County. See page 6.

Indiana’s Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy heralds a new era of wildlife manage- ment. See page 8.

DNR biologists tune-in and turn-on to eastern box turtles through radio-teleme- try. See page 11.

Endangered lake sturgeon are spawning suc- cessfully in the East Fork White River. See page 13.

Bald eagles are flying high! Least terns are taking a turn for the better at Gibson Lake. Indiana’s endangered birds — from barn owls to osprey — reach major successes in 2005. See page 17.

Badgers, bobcats and river otters are removed from Indiana’s endangered species list. See page 25.

Record number of Indiana bats are counted during winter survey. See page 25. Photo credits from clockwise: Bald eagle (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Naturalist Aide Ted Briggs with lake sturgeon (WDS staff/IDNR), box turtle (WDS staff/IDNR), peregrine falcon (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), Indiana bat (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

5 Land Stewardship

By Katie Gremillion-Smith, WDS chief

Pond is an 8,000-acre glacial basin near Linton in Greene County. Once an expansive, thriving wetland, the land was drained and pumped dry early in the last century. Today, efforts are underway to restore the area’s wildlife splendor and pro- vide public access.

The WDS was able to provide funds through State Wildlife Grants and an Endangered Species Habitat Conservation Plan grant. WDS directed $1.9 million from these federal grant programs (administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) to the overall cost of $8 million.

WDS protects, manages and restores habitats important to the species of greatest conservation need. (WDS staff/IDNR) As Goose Pond is restored, DNR can step up conservation efforts Indiana’s new The facts are clear: Indiana’s for rare species, such as shore- Comprehensive wildlife is vastly impacted by birds, crayfish frogs and north- decreasing spaces or the quality ern harriers. Most of Goose Wildlife Strategy (see of places to live. Pond is under a wetland conser- article page 8) vation easement through the identified problems In 2005, the Wildlife Diversity Natural Resources Conservation Section (WDS) stepped up Service (NRCS), which is active- affecting wildlife in efforts to protect, manage and ly restoring its wetlands. (The Indiana and their restore habitat important to easement ensures that the wet- degrees of severity. species of greatest conservation land habitats will be maintained, need. Through productive It was no surprise (but providing conservation values partnerships, we have been able such as wildlife habitat and validated what we to acquire more public conser- flood control for future genera- already knew) when vation lands, maintain rare tions.) The Division of Fish and the CWS identified the habitat and restore wetlands for Wildlife manages the property. Indiana’s neediest wildlife. Let’s top three issues: Property maps and a bird list take a look our biggest success- can be found at es in 2005. Loss of breeding habitat. www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/goosepond. Loss of feeding habitat. Goose Pond: After almost 50 Degradation of movement or years of working and wishing, migration routes. Goose Pond is at last in public ownership thanks to the assis- tance of many partners. Goose 6 Tern Bar Slough Wildlife Diversity least bittern, Virginia rail and Preserves and TNC are provid- Area: Wetland restoration efforts Blanding’s turtle. ing matching dollars needed to and the construction of an interi- secure these federal funds. The or least tern nesting island are Growing partnerships reimbursement will be returned planned for spring 2006 at Tern Rare species are often found in to the Division of Nature Bar Slough in Gibson County. rare habitats. Endangered Preserves to hire external con- This 840-acre property is adjacent species conservation depends tractors to manage additional to the Cane Ridge Wildlife on the preservation and mainte- rare habitats. Such management Management Unit at Patoka nance of unique areas that sup- requires extensive work to con- National Wildlife Refuge where port uncommon plants, animals trol invasive woody and exotic least terns successfully nested and communities. plant species, burn prairies and this past summer. plant prairie seeds. For years the WDS has appreci- DNR Division of Engineering is ated the work of the Division of In today’s world, rare habitats guiding construction of an addi- Nature Preserves and The don’t take care of themselves. tional least tern nesting island, Nature Conservancy in cata- Active management is required with assistance from Cinergy, loging, protecting and managing to maintain the integrity of Inc., owner of neighboring Gibson Lake. Tern Bar Slough is under a wetland conservation easement through NRCS, which guides and supports the wetland restoration. Many other migrato- ry bird species, rabbits and deer will benefit by Tern Bar Slough’s restoration.

Bob Kern Nature Preserve: Indiana DNR purchased 168 acres on southeast shore of Lake Manitou near Rochester in Fulton County from the Indiana Chapter of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) using State Wildlife Grant funds (adminis- tered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service).

Mr. Kern, a visionary conserva- tionist, wanted to set aside his land as a nature preserve; he Short-eared owl at Goose Pond (John Maxwell/IDNR) sold the tract to the TNC shortly before his death in 2004. TNC made the property available to the remaining best examples of fragmented habitats and control the state for approximately half Indiana’s native prairie, savan- invasive, exotic plant and animal the appraised value of $675,000. nahs, glades, fens, bogs and species. With partners like The property will be managed barrens. These areas support Division of Nature Preserves and jointly by the Division of Fish rare species from warblers to TNC, we can ensure these spe- and Wildlife and the Division of skippers to rattlesnakes. cial places are there for special Nature Preserves. species for a long time to come. Over a 3-year grant period, the We thank our partners for their The nature preserve will allow WDS is making $250,000 of support and efforts! DNR to protect unique lakeshore State Wildlife Grant funds avail- habitat and resident wildlife able to the Division of Nature species such as American bit- Preserves to maintain these rare tern, marsh wren, sedge wren, habitats. The Division of Nature 7 Helping critters What the numerous species and habitats where they live strategy does simultaneously. One of the biggest conservation The Comprehensive Wildlife The health of wildlife is an early success stories in 2005 was the Strategy places big emphasis on indicator of disease and pollution purchase and ongoing restora- biodiversity to manage all that affect us all. Indiana’s new tion of Goose Pond in southwest species by focusing on where approach to wildlife conservation Indiana. they live, Smith notes. Instead of allows biologists to identify and managing wildlife one species at prevent problems before they In the early 1900s, this 8,000-acre a time (the traditional approach), threaten wildlife and affect people. wetland was pumped dry for biologists are using the strategy farmland. Last year, the property to protect, restore and enhance The Comprehensive Wildlife was bought for $8 million. Today, entire habitats, helping many Strategy is the start of a bigger the DNR and the Natural species simultaneously. financial solution as well. There Resources Conservation Service often aren’t enough funds to go are returning Goose Pond to its The strategy also captures exist- around, and existing funds are original wetlands, forests and ing efforts and interests of more earmarked by law for specific grasslands. than 100 Indiana wildlife conser- conservation purposes. By vation partners, allowing them to Goose Pond is just one example completing a strategy according share the work load and reach of how biologists are approach- to federal guidelines, Indiana is conservation goals by pooling ing Indiana’s wildlife conserva- eligible for federal dollars to resources. The next step is to tion in the 21st century, says focus on priority areas that need work with partners to develop a Katie Smith, Wildlife Diversity attention but haven’t always state wildlife action plan. The Section chief. The DNR will now received it. plan will assess existing conser- focus on habitat conservation for vation efforts and address priori- all wildlife. Most welcome change ty needs where limited time and Through Indiana’s money can be most effective. The guide for this new approach Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy, is the Comprehensive Wildlife the DNR can better manage Strategy, which addresses the Why the wildlife. needs of all fish and wildlife new approach? species by better conserving Today’s wildlife conservation is As Indiana continues to grow habitats. Goose Pond’s restora- increasingly complicated. and change, this new conserva- tion started before CWS was Biologists are more aware of the tion approach can help the DNR completed, but it shows the fulfill its responsibility to con- direction we’re planning to go. sheer numbers of fish, mammals, reptiles, insects and the natural serve wildlife and the places they areas that make nature viable. live, says Smith. This is an Working with state and federal investment in the future, and a agencies, agricultural groups, The greatest threats to wildlife change that is most welcome. conservation and sportsmen’s are habitat loss and fragmenta- groups, academic professionals tion. Additional threats include For more information on the and other Hoosiers, Indiana DNR invasive, non-native wildlife and Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy, ambitiously developed the strate- new diseases. Biologists must go to www.djcase.com/incws. gy in 2005, offering a long-term consider how these forces impact blueprint for conservation. 8 Amphibians and Reptiles

By Zack Walker, herpetologist

Wildlife Area was the first site used in this program. In 2005, a second monitoring site was established at Winamac FWA.

In both areas, a series of six transects (or sampling plots) were constructed to monitor herpetological population trends. Each transect consists of 20 paired coverboards — boards placed on the ground to mimic natural logs — to attract amphibians and reptiles looking for habitat. Spaced 25 meters apart, the coverboards were monitored nine times through- out the summer. At Tri-County FWA, biologists reported 56 indi- vidual animals from seven species; at Winamac FWA, biolo- Common snapping turtle (WDS staff/IDNR) gists captured 23 individual ani- mals from four species. Worldwide, herpetofau- preferences and overall health of na (amphibians and herp populations. In addition, In 2006, Wildlife Diversity many herps indicate whether Section staff will develop anoth- reptiles) have experi- waters are clean or polluted, er long-term amphibian and rep- enced dramatic popula- doing better or getting worse. tile monitoring site at Hovey tion declines in recent When biologists know what is Lake FWA. Tri-County and happening with herps, they can Winamac will be surveyed again years. These declines can be better determine the health of our in 2006. attributed to factors such as wet- natural resources. This informa- land drainage, controlled water tion helps conversationalists take The skinny on craw- flows, climate change, stream steps to help improve habitat for fish frogs and mole contaminants and habitat devel- herps and people alike. oped for agriculture, mining and salamanders urban uses. Indiana biologists are Herp sampling: Biologists run surveys for state- concerned about our native herp endangered species and species populations and their current sta- Determining what’s of special concern. The crawfish tus. Because of this concern, in Indiana frog (Rana areolata) and mole steps are being taken to docu- In 2004, biologists phased in a salamander (Ambystoma ment Indiana’s reptiles, amphib- wildlife monitoring program to talpoideum) were the focus for ians and their habitats. help determine long-term popu- 2005. lation trends of amphibians and Biologists seek to gather informa- reptiles on state fish and wildlife Surveys for the state-endan- tion on species diversity, habitat areas. Tri-County Fish and gered crawfish frog took place 9 in spring 2005. Biologists made the state is reviewing the status training sessions to teach new stops along driving routes at of the species.) WDS and volunteers the ropes.) Volunteers night in likely habitat. At each Purdue University scientists pick or are assigned routes, most stop, they listened for the dis- went back to the swamp in 2005. often near where they live. tinctive call that often reminds Using funnel traps and dip nets, Throughout the summer, volun- listeners of grunting hogs at biologists captured breeding teers follow strict protocols feeding time. Survey routes ran pairs of the salamanders, which including acceptable sampling through Daviess, Greene, largely live underground, as well periods and data collection Jefferson, Knox, Sullivan and as salamander larvae. Biologists requirements. Vigo counties in southwestern found no new populations of Indiana. Surveyors found craw- mole salamanders in 2005. Each route has a number of stops fish frog populations in all but near ponds, rivers, lakes, Daviess and Knox counties. The results don’t mean anything streams, woods, farm fields and as of yet. We will survey again other frog habitat. At each stop, Results were consistent with for this species in 2006 and look observers listen for five minutes, what was expected. Traditionally for additional colonies. The win- often sorting through a cacopho- these counties have been a dow of time to observe this ny of frog song. They record data stronghold for the crawfish frog. species is relatively short, and for each species heard, as well as Daviess and Knox counties typi- multiple field seasons are need- information on weather and local cally contain more sandy soils ed to accurately gauge their conditions. For the 2005 breeding that are not preferred by bur- distribution. season, volunteers and biologists rowing crawfish that provide submitted data for 33 routes homes for crawfish frogs. North American statewide. (You can access this However, it is good to see that Amphibian Monitoring data at: this species is still present in www.pwrc.usgs.gov/naamp.) this part of its range. Program Biologists collect breeding infor- The Indiana program supple- Mole salamanders were the sur- mation for Indiana’s 17 frog and ments national efforts of the prise discovery in 2004 when toad species through the North North American Amphibian biologists discovered a breeding American Amphibian Monitoring Monitoring Program. Indiana’s population in a Posey County Program. Biologists worldwide effort was the focus of numerous swamp. Speculated to be an iso- study amphibians closely local newspaper articles in 2005, lated remnant of an historic pop- because of concerns about as more citizens understand and ulation, the salamanders, which declining populations. In Indiana, are concerned about amphibians the crawfish frog and reptiles. Amphibians are is state endan- good indicators of significant gered. The environmental changes. northern leopard Beginning in 2006, Indiana volun- frog, plains leop- teers are required to take an ard frog and online quiz to demonstrate their cricket frog are ability to identify calls. Quiz species of spe- scores will be used to strengthen cial concern. NAAMP data in statistical models. Each year, the NAAMP is the first citizen science DNR recruits program (i.e., volunteer-based) to more than 40 incorporate a standard for partici- Mole salamander (WDS staff/IDNR) volunteers to pants involved in data collection. recognize mat- Anyone can practice identifying ing calls of frog calls by using the public quiz are bluish in color with lighter Indiana’s native amphibians while at: www.pwrc.usgs.gov/frogquiz. flecking, received official protec- collecting data on assigned road- tion last year as a native side survey routes. (Staff special- species. (The mole salamander ist Kacie Ehrenberger and her- is not a state endangered petologist Zack Walker conducted species at this time. However, 10 examine this species in relation Frog surveys: to current management practices. Biologists anchored turtle traps in A great way Lake Monroe to capture resident to date turtles. At each trap site, they set two hoop nets and a box trap Figure 1. with turtle delicacies such as cat Indiana box When we studied lists of our turtle study food, sardines or frozen fish. All areas. NAAMP volunteers, we noticed turtles were measured, marked, an interesting trend. Many vol- examined and realeased at their unteers take along the same point of capture. Data taken from person (a significant other, captured individuals includes friend or family member) each carapace length and width, time out to help complete sur- weight, approximate age and sex. veys. By reviewing data, we Each turtle’s shell was marked Conservation of box turtles is a with a unique series of small find that few volunteers are major concern. Once-robust box notches to aid in identification. able to accomplish all survey turtle populations are in a precar- During 2005, no nests or juve- ious condition due to habitat tasks alone. It seems that frog niles were located within the monitoring presents a time for destruction and fragmentation study area. that makes reproduction difficult friendship and togetherness and increases chances of being and to do something great for The average weight of captured killed on roads. They also are snapping turtles was 8 pounds. conservation. Maybe that frog adversely affected by human col- The largest turtle weighed 22 will turn into a prince after all! lection for pets, the pet trade and pounds. The average carapace Asian food markets. Turtles are length of captured snapping tur- sensitive to chemical and hor- tles was 12 inches. The largest monal pollution and introduced turtle carapace length was 15 pathogens. Long-term studies inches. are important to adequately Four turtle species were captured understand the status of these within the study area: painted tur- long-lived, late-maturing species tle, red-eared slider, musk turtle for their conservation and and snapping turtle. No snapping protection. turtles were recaptured from Crawfish frog (WDS staff/IDNR) 2004. Recapture of marked snap- During Indiana’s 2005 survey, ping turtles can provide informa- three turtles from each study site tion on individual growth rates were fitted with Holohil radio Snapping Turtles: and survival. It is important to transmitters, which are about the size of a 9-volt battery topped Balancing status and gather this information on Indiana’s snapping turtles to cor- with antenna that curves around regulations rectly manage this species. the top of the carapace. Three The common snapping turtle males and six female box turtles (Chelydra serpentina) currently is Tuning-in to eastern were monitored as part of this listed as an Indiana game project. Radioed turtles were box turtles tracked approximately three species, meaning that it can be Biologists turned their dials to the times per week. Biologists harvested following the states’ eastern box turtle radio-telemetry recorded data including turtle regulations and seasons. project during the summer of behavior, weather conditions, Currently, 25 snapping turtles can 2005. This survey focused on nearby habitat variables, ground be harvested daily with a maxi- movement patterns and popula- temperature and air temperature. mum possession limit of 50. tion densities of eastern box tur- However, little is known about the tles (Terrapene carolina) in south- A unique shell marking system demographics of this species in ern Indiana. Three areas have was used to mark and identify Indiana. been selected in south-central captured turtles. A total of 17 Indiana to be a part of the project females and 22 males were In 2004, WDS biologists began a (Figure1). recorded within or adjacent to 4-year snapping turtle study to 11 study sites. In 2005, three marked Hellbenders at home Controlling invasive box turtles were recaptured from in the Blue River wall lizards the 2005 field season, while one The state-endangered hellbender In 2003, DNR staff reported a turtle was recaptured from 2004. salamander (Cryptobranchus alle- population of common wall While tracking turtles, ganiensis) has been the focus of lizards (Podarcis muralis) at Falls researchers observed three dif- studies in the Blue River in south- of the Ohio State Park near ferent mating encounters. Three ern Indiana since 1996. Biologists Clarksville. The common wall turtle nests were found during monitor long-term hellbender lizard is a European native to the course of the study. populations in this area. Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands and Italy. In its This study is part of recent native habitat, approaches to box turtle conser- this species vation in Indiana. In 2004, collec- prefers rocky or tion was prohibited from the wild woody areas with to help protect Indiana’s box tur- sparse vegeta- tle population. For information tion. In 1952, a on turtles and rules regarding few common wall them, go to www.in.gov/dnr/fish lizards were wild/endangered/turtle.htm. released in Cincinnati, Ohio. Since that time, NAAMP the wall lizard has become firmly volunteer of established in the year Ohio and Hellbender salamander (WDS staff/IDNR) Kentucky.

The origin of the Indiana popula- A big congratulations goes to In 2005, biologists expanded sampling to locate juveniles and tion is unknown, but illegal inten- Wendell Zetterberg, our North increase sampling efficiency. We tional release is assumed. Areas American Amphibian will continue to evaluate these of riprap along the banks of the Monitoring Program 2005 new techniques. Ohio River serve as an excellent habitat for this species. In 2004 Volunteer of the Year! We had Annual collections range from 12 and 2005, biologists documented so many outstanding volun- to 49 hellbenders, with an aver- wall lizards reproducing in teers that we decided to enter age of 23 individuals. Biologists increasing numbers. everyone who completed the glean basic information on Due to concerns over the increas- minimum requirements for vol- weight, length, sex and location of capture; hellbenders are per- ing numbers of wall lizard sight- unteers into a drawing. Wendell manently marked for future iden- ings and potential negative was chosen randomly from the tification. Several nests have impacts on native lizards and final list. He was an excellent been located during the last 11 skinks, a wall lizard control pro- gram was initiated in 2005. Wall choice because he is one of years of survey, but no juvenile hellbenders have been seen. lizards were captured using glue many volunteers who helped boards, by hand and with lizard update his route map. Wendell As America’s largest aquatic sala- nooses. The wall lizard popula- also has emailed us several mander, mature hellbenders tion and the effectiveness of the control program will be evaluat- times with questions or sugges- range from 12 to 29 inches. They eat crayfish, small fish, snails ed in 2006. Invasive species are tions to help make this program and worms, and vary in color considered a threat to native bio- run better. Along with our grati- from olive-brown to black. As if logical diversity. The release of tude, Wendell has received a the hellbender’s name isn’t color- any animal, plant or viable plant part is illegal on public lands. frog pewter pin. ful enough, it is also known as a devil dog, mollyhugger, mud cat, snot-otter and grampus. 12 Aquatic Species

By Brant Fisher, aquatic biologist

Lake sturgeon spawning facts

Lake sturgeon are one of Indiana’s largest fish. They also are one of the longest- lived and slowest to mature. Males don’t reach sexual maturity until about 15 years of age, and females require about 20 years. Both sexes can easily live more than 50 years. Prior to spawning, adult sturgeon form groups in deep holes near the spawn- ing site. Sturgeon may per- form staging displays that include rolling near the bot- tom and splashing near the Freshwater mussels (WDS staff/IDNR) surface. The aquatics program Spawning takes place in Seventy-seven species of fresh- areas of clean rock with cur- within of the Wildlife water mussels are native to rent over it. A mature lake Diversity Section is Indiana. An ongoing statewide sturgeon can lay from inventory will allow updates to 100,000 to 800,000 eggs dur- mostly concerned with ing a single spawning sea- our state-endangered and spe- nongame fishes and son. Scattered by currents, cial concern lists. Freshwater freshwater mussels. the eggs stick to rocks and mussels are one of the most logs. Young hatch in five to There are more than 200 species endangered groups of organ- eight days after fertilization of fish in Indiana, and three isms in Indiana, with more than and grow rapidly. quarters of these are considered half of our native species either Lake sturgeon are imperiled nongame (not fished). Most extirpated (gone from the state) in all states where they work concerns species on or listed as endangered or occur – primarily through Indiana’s endangered and spe- species of special concern. the Northeast, Midwest and cial concern lists (see page 4). Southeast. Because they are Intensive surveys of several Lake sturgeon are slow to mature and have species that previously were on reproducing in East specific habitat require- the state endangered list ments, they do not respond revealed that they were more Fork White River very quickly to conservation common than believed, result- WDS biologists verified in 2005 measures and recovery ing in delisting. that lake sturgeon (Acipenser takes a long time. fulvescens) are reproducing

13 successfully in the East Fork although a typical specimen study, tissue samples also were White River, although at relatively weighs about 30 pounds. taken from lake sturgeon. Dr. low levels. This is great news for Collection of several smaller indi- Gene Rhodes and Andrea Drauch this state-endangered species. viduals during the past couple of with Purdue University’s years proves that recent repro- Department of Forestry and Information from the study will duction has occurred. Natural Resources is conducting help WDS and its partners to pro- research to determine the genetic tect and possibly enhance key Since 2002, biologists have fitted structure and uniqueness of the spawning areas. Knowing where 16 lake sturgeon with transmit- East Fork White River lake stur- lake sturgeon spawn could also ters for tracking. Radio telemetry geon population. Results are provide the opportunity for possi- helps identify spawning areas expected in 2006. ble artificial propagation if neces- and determine movement pat- sary. terns. Since the telemetry study Most lake sturgeon target a pri- mary, deeper Long-term studies: Lake stur- stretch of the river geon have long been the subjects to spend the sum- of study. In 1996 WDS staff first mer months. As began to study a remnant popula- water temperatures tion of lake sturgeon in the East cool in the fall, they Fork downstream of Williams disperse through- Dam in Lawrence County. DNR out the river, even- tually selecting a What are trammel secondary deeper stretch to spend the and gill nets? winter. There isn’t much movement Trammel and gill nets are spe- throughout the cial nylon (multifilament) coldest winter entanglement nets that are months. However, used by biologists but are not Naturalist Aide Ted Briggs with lake sturgeon (WDS staff/IDNR) when water tem- legal for public use. They can peratures approach be drifted (active sampling) or began, lake sturgeon have shown 50 degrees Fahrenheit, usually set stationary (passive sam- similar, annual movement pat- around the end of March, lake pling). These nets have a terns. sturgeon make a mass migration weighted bottom lead line and upstream. a floatable top line with mesh 2005 study: During the first between. Nets commonly use week of April 2005, lake sturgeon Most make it to Williams Dam, in the East Fork are 120 x 8 were tracked once again to which provides a barrier to fur- feet in size. During our sets for Williams Dam, as in past years. ther upstream movement. After lake sturgeon, we commonly spending several weeks in the catch other fishes such as However, for the first time, actual shovelnose sturgeon, paddle- lake sturgeon spawning was doc- Williams Dam area, all slowly fish, freshwater drum and umented. Several fish spawned swim back downstream, with smallmouth buffalo. These are along a rocky shoreline down- most returning to their primary released unharmed. stream of Williams Dam. summer reach of the river. Biologists collected a small Anyone who catches a lake stur- amount of eggs and took them to geon should return it to the river has conducted annual trammel Cikana State Fish Hatchery in immediately. and gill net sampling (see side- Martinsville to determine their bar) since 1996, and nearly 100 viability. More than a dozen larval individual lake sturgeon have lake sturgeon hatched from these Statewide freshwater been identified. Many have been eggs. Larval lake sturgeon also mussel survey captured several times during the were collected from the river In 2005, mussel surveys were course of the study. Captured lake using larval drift nets set below completed in the following sturgeon range from four to more the spawning area. drainages: Otter Creek (Vigo than 100 pounds in weight, Throughout the course of this County), Laughery Creek (Ohio, 14 Ripley), Hogan Creek (Dearborn), Tanners Creek (Dearborn), Yellow River (Marshall), Vermillion River (Vermillion), Eel River (Clay, Owen, Greene), Big Raccoon Creek (Parke), Little Wabash River (Allen, Huntington), Rock Creek (Huntington, Wells), Indian-Kentuck Creek (Jefferson), Kidneyshell Pipe Creek (Cass, Miami), Big Ptychobranchus fasciolaris Creek (Posey), Deer Creek (Carroll, Cass), Big Pine Creek (Warren, Benton), Anderson River (Perry, Spencer), Little Pigeon Creek (Warrick, Spencer) and Wea Creek (Tippecanoe). Notable finds in 2005: Although no live individuals were found, fresh shells of the fat pocketbook (Potamilus capax), an endangered species on federal and state lists, were found at several locations in Big Creek in Posey County. This species previously was known to occur in the lower Wabash and White rivers. Several new popu- Wavyrayed lampmussel lations of the kidneyshell Lampsilis fasciola (Ptychobranchus fasciolaris) and wavyrayed lampmussel (Lampsilis fasciola), state species of special concern, were discov- ered in multiple drainages. Diverse mussel communities were documented in stretches of Big Pine, Deer and Laughery creeks. Mussel survey background: The Wildlife Diversity Section has funded freshwater mussel surveys of most of Indiana’s major drainages since 1990. These surveys provide valuable information on current and historical freshwater mussel distribution of Indiana. However, Fat Pocketbook many Indiana streams remained Potamilus capax unsurveyed; no information was available on the current freshwa- ter mussel community of these areas. (WDS staff/IDNR)

15 A statewide survey of previously unsurveyed streams began in Mussel aches: 2001; WDS biologists have sam- pled nearly 400 sites to date. A life down under Several important locations for new species were documented No other country in the world equals the United States in during the first years of the freshwater mussel diversity. While Europe supports only 12 study: species, nearly 300 kinds live in the United States; 77 are • A previously unknown native to Indiana. reproducing population of the snuffbox (Epioblasma Unfortunately, these mollusks are one of the most troubled triquetra), a state- natural resources in this country. It is estimated that 70 per- endangered species, was found in the Salamonie cent of our freshwater mussels are extinct, endangered or in River. need of special protection.

• Reproducing round Top threats: Although water quality has improved in hickorynut (Obovaria subrotunda), a state species some areas, pollution (from point and non-point sources) is a of special concern, were great threat to native mussels. Sedimentation, which clogs found in the West Fork their gills, takes a serious toll. They continue to lose habitat White River drainage. through channelization, clearing streambanks of vegetation • Little spectaclecase and dredging. (Villosa lienosa), another special concern species, Invasive zebra mussels also are a big problem. Zebra mussels were found to have a much reproduce at a tremendous rate and can completely cover larger distribution than previously known. native mussels and their habitats. Competition for food and oxygen weakens and eventually starves native mussels. • Large, reproducing populations of ellipse Their valuable role: In rivers and lakes where mussels (Venustaconcha ellipsiformis), also a state live on the bottom, their filtering ability makes them natural species of special concern, water purifiers. Mussels play an important role in the aquatic were located at several food chain as a food source for wildlife including muskrats locations in the Kankakee and Lake Michigan and otters. drainages. Mussels also can tell us something about the health of the Next steps: The statewide mus- environment. Mussels respond to changes in water quality. sel survey will continue through Gradual mussel die-offs or sudden mussel kills are reliable the summer of 2006. indicators of water pollution problems and other environmen- tal health concerns. Stable, diverse mussel populations gener- ally indicate clean water and a healthy aquatic environment.

Regulations: It is illegal to collect or take live or dead mussel shells from public waters. A ban on harvesting shells has been in effect since 1991 to protect against the rapid decrease in the abundance and distribution of mussels.

16 Birds

By John Castrale, avian biologist

Indiana’s bald eagle program

The bald eagle project was the DNR’s first endangered species restoration project. During five years starting in 1989, biolo- gists released 73 bald eagle chicks at Monroe Reservoir in Monroe County.

When reaching adulthood at four to five years of age, bald eagles return to nest within 50 to 100 miles of where they fledged. Indiana’s first success- ful bald eagle nest since 1897 was at Lake Monroe in 1991. Loss of habitat and decreased reproduction due to pesticides Bald eagle (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) such as DDT contributed to the bald eagle’s disappearance There are more than Bald eagle populations from Indiana. 300 species of still flying high nongame birds in Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leuco- Biologists monitor bald eagle Indiana, so WDS bird cephalus) continue to make a nesting every year to deter- strong comeback in Indiana! projects are very mine nest success and number diverse and include Midwinter Eagle Survey: In of chicks produced. The num- ber of nesting territories con- inventory and surveys, January 2005, 187 bald eagles were tallied during the tinues to steadily increase. In monitoring, research, Midwinter Eagle Survey. This is 2005, 62 eagles nested on management, species well above the 10-year average rivers, lakes and reservoirs of 157 and the third highest restoration and techni- throughout the southern half count ever. During the three of Indiana and up the Wabash cal guidance. Some days of the survey, biologists highlights from 2005 conducted flights on 15 lakes River to Cass and Wabash follow. and over 650 miles of rivers. counties. At least 463 eaglets Weather conditions were mild have fledged from Indiana prior to the survey, allowing nests through 2005. birds to remain farther north in 17 the upper Midwest. Ice-free Nesting info: Overall breeding Wildlife Diversity Section staff waterways resulted in a slightly records were broken again in monitored 68 nest structures or above average concentration of 2005, with 47 of 62 active nests territories in 33 counties. Nine eagles on lakes and reservoirs successfully producing 87 young nests were active for the first compared to rivers. Extensive time, while six active pairs from 2004 did not nest this year. The overall breeding range expand- ed to the east with new nests in Wabash and Union counties. Single eaglets were raised at 13 nests, twins at 28 nests and triplets in six nests. Eagles considered for delisting: When the eagle project started, biologists set a recovery goal of 50 active pairs for three consecutive years. After 16 years of hard work, bald eagle numbers have now exceeded this goal. During 2006, the Nongame Bird Technical Avisory Committee will consider delisting bald eagles in Indiana. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is also moving closer to delisting bald eagles at the fed- eral level. Everyone who con- tributed to the Nongame Fund should take great pride in the flooding along rivers likely (1.4 eaglets fledged per active part they played to bring our resulted in some undercounting. nest). In 2004, 44 of 50 active national symbol back home Sixty-six percent of eagles nests produced 85 young. again in Indiana. observed were adults, just above the 10-year mean of 63 percent.

Bald eagle chicks (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) 18 Peregrine falcons reach record 12 pairs Peregrine falcons (Falco peregri- nus) have reached a record of 12 pairs in Indiana in 2005, after the re-discovery of a pair in Indianapolis that relocated 1.3 miles from its previous nest site but was not found last year. Nine of the 12 nesting attempts were successful, and 29 chicks fledged this season. Biologists banded all but four of the chicks.

Two pairs of falcons nested in Indianapolis, with one pair each in Fort Wayne, South Bend, and at a power plant in Jasper

Peregrine facts

The peregrine falcon is found

on every continent except

Antarctica. Peregrine popula-

tions exhibited large-scale

declines throughout the world

in the mid-1900s primarily Peregrine falcon (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

because DDT and other pesti- Here are some other falcon facts • During 2005, identified for 2005: falcons had origins in cide contamination affected Wisconsin (five birds), • At a bridge in East Chicago, Indiana (four), Missouri nesting success. two nests were within (three), Illinois (two), and one 1/4-mile of each other and the bird each in Iowa, Kentucky, new unbanded male appears Michigan and Ohio. to be paired with both (Biologists determine origin County. Seven nests were females. from leg bands.) In addition, recorded at industrial sites (steel • At Bethlehem Steel, a pair seven other peregrines with mills, power plants, a highway re-nested after chicks from Indiana origins were known bridge and an oil refinery) along the first nesting attempt died to be nesting (two each in Lake Michigan. All but three and they fledged two chicks Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin; nesting adults were identified, in mid-August (the latest one in Ohio). and turnover (falcons replaced date on record in the • Biologists built a new nest by others) was noted in four Midwest). box in Indianapolis; the instances, including at U.S. Steel • Two injured falcons required previous box had been in Gary where the resident male removed due to building was likely killed by his grandson. rehabilitation and were released. construction. 19 In 1972, U.S. Fish and Wildlife was extremely low compared to Generating Station. Cane Ridge Service listed the peregrine fal- previous years. WMA is a 440-acre unit of the con in North America as an nearby Patoka River National endangered species. Due to Thirty of 40 tern nests are Wildlife Refuge. The property was reductions of DDT, reproductive believed successful, and 57 chicks a cooperative restoration effort success improved and popula- fledged. This relative productivity between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife tions began increasing. However, (1.4 chicks fledged per nesting Service and Cinergy’s Habitat the Eastern U.S. population had attempt) has not been this high Conservation Program to relocate totally disappeared. During the since 1998. Five tern nests were a least tern colony from part of 1970s, programs began to restore at the tip of Gibson Lake’s center Gibson Generating Station. peregrine populations by releas- ing young captive-bred birds in urban areas where skyscrapers mimicked natural suitable habi- tats. These efforts have been suc- cessful, and peregrines once again nest in the East and Midwest.

The Indiana peregrine falcon rein- troduction project began in 1991 with the release of 15 young birds in Indianapolis. Over the next three years, releases occurred in Fort Wayne, South Least tern news Bend and Evansville. A total of 60 Interior least tern (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) young peregrine falcons have been released in the state. • U.S. Fish and Wildlife dike, and 35 nests were at Cane Although peregrines are still con- Service biologists will Ridge WMA. The only episodes complete construction of sidered endangered in Indiana, it of predation were thought to is likely that we have more of another nesting island at have been caused by a great Cane Ridge WMA in 2006. them in the state today that we horned owl. had prior to European settlement. • The DNR plans to build a Indiana’s efforts have contributed Interior least terns, a state and nesting island at nearby greatly to the national recovery federal endangered species, have Tern Bar Slough Wildlife effort. In August 1999, peregrine nested at Gibson Lake beginning Diversity Area (840 acres), falcons were removed from the in 1986; at least 25 pairs have and will also restore federal endangered species list, nested there annually since 1996. wetlands. meaning that populations are In recent years, high predation on viable nationwide. In the near eggs and chicks, primarily by • Nesting by least terns was future, the state will consider ring-billed gulls, has resulted in noted along the Wabash removing peregrines from dismal production. However, the River near Grayville, Indiana’s endangered species list creation of fenced nesting islands Illinois, and at a dredge as well. at Cane Ridge WMA offered terns island in the Ohio River a relatively safe place to nest in near Grandview, Indiana. A “tern” for the 2005. Nesting took place better at Gibson Lake at a power plant near this Gibson Lake and Cane Ridge In 2005, interior least terns latter site in 2003. WMA support one of the few (Sterna antillarum) experienced Although rising water known interior least tern nesting the second highest level of threatened this site, chicks colonies east of the Mississippi recorded nesting success at were noted, but it was River. Gibson Lake is a 3,000-acre Gibson Lake and the adjacent uncertain how many cooling reservoir owned and Cane Ridge Wildlife Management fledged. operated by Cinergy’s Gibson Area in Gibson County. Predation 20 Osprey reproduction is were on nest platforms or utility tion declined rapidly between up; 32 birds released poles except for two nests in 1950 and 1980 due to DDT, loss dead trees. Three adults at these of breeding grounds and poach- Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nests had leg bands indicating ing. The banning of DDT in com- nestlings were released for the their origins in Ohio, Minnesota bination with state conservation third consecutive year at Patoka and Pennsylvania. programs has allowed osprey Lake and Tri-County Fish and populations to surge throughout Wildlife Area (Orange and Contacts were made to erect the U.S. The osprey is listed as Kosciusko counties, respective- additional nesting platforms in endangered in Indiana. ly). Nestlings were released for suitable habitat areas. Dubois the second year at Jasper- County Rural Electric Sandhills and Pulaski and Minnehaha FWAs Cooperative, Indiana American (Jasper and Sullivan counties, Water Company, Cinergy and whoopers just respectively). Bectren have agreed to donate passing through utility poles and assist in erect- Sandhills: During the coordinat- WDS staff obtained 32 osprey ing platforms. nestlings from the Chesapeake ed fall census in November 2004, biologists counted 11,000 Bay of Virginia and transported Like peregrine falcons, ospreys sandhill cranes (Grus canaden- them to Indiana in late June are found on every continent sis) at Jasper-Pulaski Fish and 2005. All birds were released in except Antarctica. The popula- July. Biologists provided fish at Wildlife Area and 500 at Pigeon hack sites until late August to give the birds a helping hand. Individual birds were last seen from two to 43 days after initial flights. No birds are known to have died.

The only sightings away from release sites were three birds seen together at Minnehaha FWA; biologists believe these birds dispersed from Jasper- Pulaski FWA. Single birds from the 2003 releases returned to Tri-County FWA and Patoka Lake but did not nest. A newly estab- lished nesting pair harassed a released osprey at Tri-County FWA.

Eleven (compared to eight in 2004) active nests were found throughout Indiana. Two each were located [counties in paren- theses] at Brookville Reservoir (Union, Franklin), Potato Creek State Park (St. Joseph) and Pigeon River FWA (LaGrange) and on Patoka Lake (Orange). Single nests were located at Hovey Lake FWA (Posey) and Tri-County FWA, and on the Kankakee River (LaPorte). Ospreys raised 23 nestlings suc- Sandhill crane (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) cessfully at 10 sites. All nests 21 River FWA (Jasper and The Indiana leg of the project LaGrange counties, respective- lasted from November 5 to 14 ly). The peak fall population of with the ultralight and cranes staging sandhill cranes at making stops in Boone, Morgan, Jasper-Pulaski FWA was 24,162 Jennings and Scott counties. on November 23. In late Twenty-two cranes from previous December, 13,000 were still releases made stops in Indiana present. These numbers indicate while migrating from Wisconsin that the eastern population of to Florida. They migrated singly sandhill cranes is healthy and more are wintering in the area.

The largest concentration of sandhills in the Eastern U.S. occurs at Jasper-Pulaski FWA. From October through November, sandhills from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ontario stop here during migration. More than 30,000 sandhills have gathered here in early to mid-November during the peak of migration. While hunted in some states, sandhills are protected in Indiana. How many Young whooping cranes follow an ultralight from Wisconsin to Florida. Whoopers: The Whooping Crane (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) whoopers? Eastern Partnership, an interna- tional coalition of public and pri- or in groups of up to three birds vate organizations, coordinates Currently, there are only about and were in Indiana from an ultralight-led reintroduction November 6 through December 300 whoopers in the wild. project to return this federally 18. Most were present for two to endangered species to its historic Aside from the ultralight- four days although two groups range in eastern North America. trained cranes, the only migrat- stayed 20 and 27 days, respec- Ultralights are used to teach tively. At least three groups were ing population nests at the young birds their annual migra- detected in Indiana while migrat- tion path. The birds pass through Wood Buffalo National Park in ing northward during March 2005. Indiana each year on their trek. Canada and winters at the WDS staff help monitor the Aransas NWR on the Texas cranes’ journey through the state. Gulf Coast. A non-migrating During the fourth year of the proj- flock of approximately 90 birds ect, 14 captive-bred whooping cranes (Grus americana) were lives year-round in central lead by ultralight aircraft on Florida near Kissimmee. October 10, 2004, from Necedah National Wildlife Refuge in cen- tral Wisconsin and arrived on Whooping cranes are the December 12 at the wintering site largest wading bird species in at Chassowitzka NWR on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The 19 days of North America, standing up to flight was similar to that of previ- five feet tall with a wingspan of ous years, but weather delays seven feet. greatly increased the overall migration period. 22 Barn owl (U.S. Fish and Wildlfie Service)

Barn owls at record number of sites Barn owls (Tyto alba) Since 1983, the Wildlife Diversity nested in a record 18 Section has erected more than 200 nest boxes for barn owls in nesting sites in 2005, grassland habitats throughout surpassing the previ- Indiana, primarily in the southern ous record of 15 nests. part of the state. A database of these locations is maintained, (WDS staff/IDNR) During 2005, biologists checked and boxes are checked for use 162 intact nesting boxes in 43 each year. The barn owl is the most widely counties to uncover this new distributed of all owls in the record. The nesting sites featured Other species using barn owl world. Ill-equipped for cold the following: single adults (five boxes were rock pigeons, weather, barn owls mostly occur sites), adult pairs (two sites), American kestrels, European star- in counties along the Ohio River. nests with eggs (two sites) and lings, raccoons and squirrels. In Indiana and many other nests with young (nine sites). All Twenty-two boxes were absent or Midwestern states, this once- were in nest boxes in wooden could not be located since 2004, common rural inhabitant is now barns except for one in a corn primarily as a result of wooden rare mainly due to changes in crib and another in a large metal barns falling into disrepair or agricultural habitat and loss of storage building with open sides. being replaced. Barn owl boxes barn structures. The species is were installed at two new sites. considered endangered in Indiana. 23 Information Infrastructure. Field Can you help forms, maps and instructions were developed and distributed a barn owl to atlas participants; county coor- find a home? dinators were recruited to find additional participants and facili- tate atlasing.

WDS biologists are always WDS biologist John Castrale con- looking for suitable areas to tinues to serve as state co-coordi- nator for the Breeding Bird Atlas erect barn owl nest boxes. to maintain adequate geographic Primary considerations are the coverage and identify qualified volunteers to carry out this presence of suitable foraging important monitoring effort.

areas (pastures, hayfields, per-

manent grasslands and marsh-

es) and large wooden barns or

other structures where a nest Nongame bird conser- box can be placed. If you own vation initiatives property that might meet this The Wildlife Diversity Section In 2005, National Audubon continued its active participation Society hired James Cole description and would be will- in national and international bird ([email protected]) as coordi- ing to host a barn owl nest conservation initiatives in 2005, nator of the Important Bird including Partners In Flight, U.S. Areas program in Indiana. An box, please contact biologist Shorebird Conservation Plan, IBA is designated as globally North American Waterbird important habitat for the conser- John Castrale (812-849-4586). Conservation Plan, and North vation of bird populations. Many American Waterfowl of these sites are owned or Management Plan. managed by state and federal Breeding Bird agencies. WDS biologist John In addition, biologist John Castrale serves on an advisory Atlas of Indiana Castrale represents Indiana on board in this effort to set criteria The Breeding Bird Atlas is a com- the Scientific Technical and identify potential IBAs. Once prehensive, statewide survey that Committee for the Upper identified, IBAs offer conserva- reveals the current distribution of Mississippi River/Great Lakes tion opportunities for citizens in breeding birds in Indiana. It was Joint Venture. The committee monitoring, local stewardship conducted in Indiana during 1985 advises the Management Board, and advocacy. Thirteen IBAs to 1990, and this project was reviews research proposals for have now been designated in restarted in 2005 to gather new funding consideration, and is Indiana and others are being information. updating the JV’s North considered (see www.indi- American Waterfowl anaaudubon.org/IBA/IBA.htm). Volunteers and biologists are vis- Management Plan to encompass iting 647 priority blocks to obtain all bird conservation. Originally evidence of breeding. Since 2005 charged with forming partner- was the first year of fieldwork, ships to develop habitat projects results have not been deter- for waterfowl, the Joint Venture mined. Data entry takes place on- has expanded these efforts to line at the Breeding Bird Atlas include projects to conserve Explorer, a cooperative effort with shorebirds, other waterbirds, the Patuxent Wildlife Research and upland birds. Center and National Biological 24 Mammals

By Scott Johnson, mammal biologist

Nongame and endan- gered mammals include a variety of interesting and charis- matic species ranging from highly mobile bobcats and otters to more sedentary Franklin’s ground squirrels and Allegheny woodrats. Perhaps because peo- ple live so closely with mammals such as dogs, cats, horses and cattle, people feel an Indiana bat (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) instinctive connection to mammals, and has not been recorded from the nongame. As protected interest in this group state since 1977. The committee nongame, these species cannot believes the southeastern be taken from the wild, and pri- is always high. myotis is of accidental occur- vate citizens cannot possess rence in Indiana and is therefore their carcasses or hides if Changes in best represented as a species of obtained from accidental cap- administrative rules special concern rather than an tures. endangered resident species. and state listings All three were included on Recommended downlist- Officially changing the status Indiana’s original endangered ing southeastern bat: In begins with recommendations species list published in 1969, December 2004, the Nongame provided by the Technical but recent studies have shown Mammal Technical Advisory Advisory Committee. All status increasing populations of these Committee recommended changes then go through the furbearers. Delisting occurred changing the status of the division’s administrative rule through an emergency rule. southeastern myotis (Myotis process. Permanent rule approval is austroriparius) — commonly expected from the Natural referred to as the southeastern De-listing bobcats, badg- Resources Commission in 2006. bat — from state endangered to ers and otters: in July 2005, species of special concern. bobcats, badgers and river Record number of otters were removed from Indiana bats counted The species reaches the north- Indiana’s endangered species Biologists complete a census of ern limit of its range in extreme list and reclassified as protected winter hibernacula for the feder- southern Indiana and Illinois and 25 ally endangered Indiana bat Managing Indiana (Myotis sodalis) every two years in Indiana. The goal is to moni- bat winter hibernacula tor the species’ status and assess progress towards recov- ery. Biologists surveyed the Wildlife Diversity personnel use unauthorized visitations in Indiana bat again in 2005. several strategies to manage three hibernacula. Increases: In January and important winter hibernacula for February 2005, 206,610 Indiana the federally endangered Indiana • 2004 to 2005 winter was the bats were counted in 25 of 27 seventh consecutive caves visited. This represents a bat (Myotis sodalis). They also assess hibernating season in which 13 percent increase (23,307 bats) the efficacy of different protection from the 2003 count — the high- no visitations were noted in measures: est ever recorded in the state. Coon Cave. Additionally, no Nearly 55,000 bats were counted in Wyandotte Cave, an astound- visitations were detected in • “Indiana Bat Hibernating ing 76 percent increase from Colony” warning signs, either Ray’s (for the third 2003, making it the largest which define the seasonal consecutive winter) or Grotto known hibernacula in the state. Ray’s Cave contained 54,325 (for the eighth consecutive closure period from bats (7 percent increase), and September 1 to April 30, are winter) caves. For the second Jug Hole harbored 29,430 bats (53 percent increase), which posted at 11 caves in consecutive winter, Saltpeter nearly qualifies it as Indiana’s southern Indiana. (Caves Cave experienced only one fifth “Priority 1” hibernacula (a supporting hibernating unauthorized trip. cave harboring more than 30,000 bats). Smaller popula- Indiana bats may not be tions at Clyfty, Endless, Saltpeter • Other management activities legally entered between and Wallier caves had increases include landowner outreach, September 1 and April 30.) totaling 815 bats. sign and gate maintenance and Declines: In contrast, Indiana’s • Remote electronic alarm use of dataloggers to monitor two original “Priority 1” hiber- nacula both continue long-term systems, first deployed in roost temperatures in declines. Twin Domes Cave had 1996, continue to be select hibernacula. 36,800 bats, a 25 percent drop effective deterrents to from 2003 and nearly one-third of its population (98,250) in 1981. Batwing Cave remained essentially unchanged (6,850 in 2005; 6,900 in 2003) but still less than one-fourth of its previous high (29,960) in 1981. Slight declines were noted in Grotto (9,875) and Coon (9,270) caves; however, both are still near record highs established in 2003.

Losses were reported at Parker’s Pit and Robinson’s Ladder, Sexton Springs, Mitchell Crushed Stone Quarry, Gypsy Indiana bat colony (WDS staff/IDNR) Bill Allen, Saltpeter, Leonard Springs and Buckner’s caves. 26 New populations: Two new prairie/grassland preserves in Allegheny woodrats small populations with fewer Lake County. continue to decline than 30 bats were found in In 2005, WDS staff began to DNR has listed Allegheny Storms Pit and Sullivan Cave. revisit these and other potential woodrats (Neotoma magister) as sites to reassess the status, dis- state-endangered since 1984. Franklin’s ground tribution and relative abundance They are rare, and Indiana’s cur- squirrel populations of Franklin’s ground squirrels in rent population is limited to the patchy Indiana. Biologists trapped the limestone cliffs bordering the Franklin’s ground squirrels species at 13 sites on railroad Ohio River in extreme south- (Spermophilus frankinii) occupy rights of way in Benton and central Indiana. Tippecanoe counties from mid- tall grasslands, forest-prairie Biologists revisited known popu- May to early August 2005. borders and marsh edges in 10 lation sites in 2005 to monitor Twenty-eight squirrels (11 states and four Canadian changes in the species’ status, males, 15 females, two provinces in the central and distribution and relative abun- unknown) were captured at north-central Great Plains region dance. Fifty-one woodrats (27 seven sites, all in Benton of North America. They are males, 24 females) were cap- County. uncommon to rare in Indiana tured 82 times at only seven and historically have been Currently, population trends are sites. Compared to 2002, when recorded in 16 contiguous coun- not available, but by comparing 81 woodrats were captured, this ties in the northwest corner of 2005 captures sites to those in represents a 37 percent decline the state. previous surveys, biologists in captures and the fewest woodrats found in Indiana in 14 years.

No woodrats were found at three sites (two bluffs, one cave), and population declines were evident at five of the seven occupied bluff sites. Only one site yielded more than 10 indi- viduals. Although nearly all pop- ulations in Indiana have declined since 1991, Allegheny woodrats persist at Bull’s Point Bluff (Crawford County), Harrison-Crawford State Forest in the namesake counties, Tobacco Landing (Harrison County) and Rabbit Hash Ridge (Harrison County).

Franklin’s ground squirrel trapped as part of population study (WDS staff/IDNR)

Surveys by Wildlife Diversity Section personnel since the mid- believe that populations on 1980s documented a steady railroad rights of way have reduction in distribution with discontinuous distribution; small only eight occupied sites found colonies might be transitory or during the last survey in 1994. nomadic. Surveys will resume in Most populations were patchy in spring 2006 focusing on railroad distribution. They were found sites and nature preserves in along linear railroad rights of Lake, Newton and Warren way in Benton and Tippecanoe counties. counties or within isolated 27 River otters Population genetics of removed from state- Allegheny woodrats endangered status Due to surges in river otter pop- ulations, the species (Lontra In 2005, the Wildlife Diversity Section In endangered species conservation, canadensis) was reclassified in entered into a contractual agreement biologists are interested in genetic Indiana from state-endangered with Purdue University’s Department variation — meaning the level or to protected nongame in July of Forestry and Natural Resources. amount of diversity in a population’s 2005. This means that while Dr. O.E. Rhodes and researchers will genetic makeup. Genetic diversity is otters are protected from har- assess Allegheny woodrat popula- beneficial, and populations with high vest or other uses, their popula- tions (Neotoma magister) in Indiana. levels of diversity have better tions are increasingly healthy and more viable. This is a huge Specifically, they will: chances of surviving a disease success for Indiana’s otters! outbreak or other problem that could • assess woodrats’ impact a population. Restoration measures: population genetics Historically, Indiana’s native Researchers will assess exposure of river otter population declined • determine the woodrats’ Indiana woodrats to raccoon round- sharply through the early 1900s long-term viability due to unregulated harvest and worm. They also will examine the habitat loss; the species was utility of using DNA obtained from • assess the potential of extirpated from the state by fecal pellets to estimate genetic conservation measures. 1942. To restore otters to por- diversity, population size, dispersal tions of their historic range, 303 and movement parameters, and otters (184 males, 119 females) Researchers will measure levels of productivity through parentage were safely trapped in Louisiana genetic variation within Indiana’s analyses. Field work began in sum- using modified foothold traps woodrat population. In addition, they mer 2005 with tissue and fecal sam- and released at 12 sites in six will evaluate whether loss of genetic Indiana watersheds ples obtained from woodrats cap- diversity is a factor contributing to (Muscatatuck, Patoka, South- tured during routine status surveys. the species’ risk of extirpation. central Ohio, St. Joseph, Researchers also will compare Tippecanoe, Upper Wabash Gaining knowledge about population Indiana’s woodrats to populations rivers) between 1995 and 1999. genetics might point the way to throughout its geographic range. management strategies that will Mortality factors: To date, 58 (42 males, 16 females) of maintain Indiana’s woodrat these otters (19 percent) are populations. known to have died, most in traps legally set for other furbearers and from collisions with vehicles.

The types and levels of major sources of mortality (trap-related and road-kills) were expected and are within reason. Mortality factors have not prevented otters from becoming estab- lished in those watersheds that were targeted for restoration.

Allegheny woodrat (WDS staff/IDNR)

28 Trappers’ assistance: release sites. They are rare or cent and 53 percent for adults Trappers have been very sup- were not reported in 58 counties and yearlings, respectively, with portive of the otter reintroduc- in central Indiana. an average litter size of 2.5 pups. tion program and have taken Reproduction was confirmed, steps to reduce the likelihood of Future goals: Biologists have either by recovery of untagged accidentally trapping otters. In their sights set on defining individuals and/or observations addition, trappers have turned in otters’ statewide geographic of family groups, every year otters that were accidentally distribution and improving except 1995 and at 10 of 12 trapped, which has provided management strategies to release sites. Pregnancy rates much information (distribution, protect, maintain and regulate for Indiana otters were 86 per- age, reproductive parameters). restored populations.

2005 otter populations by county

River otters (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Population expansion: Since the otter reintroduction effort began in 1995, Indiana biologists have used field sur- veys, sightings and information from mortalities to assess where otters live and how they are expanding geographically. During this 10-year period, otters were reported from 63 of 92 counties and 14 of 15 water- sheds in Indiana. They occupy all 12 release sites, have expanded to adjacent habitats and colonized drainages not originally targeted for restoration.

Otters are widely distributed in northeast, north-central and southern Indiana but are most common in 23 contiguous coun- ties surrounding the 12 original 29 Ecology of bobcats in tive of a true population increase, Bobcats in other south-central Indiana greater public awareness, or a combination of both? What are As a 7-year bobcat radio-teleme- parts of Indiana the movement patterns and habi- try study winds down, Wildlife tat needs for Indiana bobcats? Do Diversity Section personnel are they differ between males and learning critical information about In addition to the radio-teleme- females? What are their major the habits and biology of bobcats try study, Wildlife Diversity sources of mortality? Do juveniles (Lynx rufus) in the Hoosier state. move away from their natal areas Section personnel seek infor- Such studies will help biologists to establish their own territories? better understand and manage mation about the status, distri- If so, when do they disperse and this protected species. The bob- bution and relative abundance where do they go? Such answers cat was removed from Indiana’s are not easily obtained for an ani- of bobcats (Lynx rufus) in other endangered species list in 2005. mal as elusive and wide-ranging parts of the Hoosier state. This study documented that as a bobcat without a commit- these secretive animals are not in ment to long-term, comprehen- jeopardy of being expirated from sive investigation. Excluding individuals captured Indiana. or sighted as part of the radio- The study site was near Background: In December telemetry study, there have Springville in northwest 1998, WDS personnel initiated a been 105 confirmed reports (road-kills, accidental captures) from 35 Indiana coun- ties since 1970. Seventy-five reports (71 percent) have occurred in the last five years. Most are in the southwest and south-central Indiana with fewer reports scattered throughout the southeast, west- central, north-central, and northeast regions A bobcat captured during the radio-telemetry study (WDS staff/IDNR) of the state. The data- base also contains information multi-year study to obtain basic Lawrence County, an area known on 323 unconfirmed reports ecological information about bob- to support bobcats based on the from 76 Indiana counties. In cats from an established popula- number of recent road-kills and tion in Indiana. 2005, the database was instru- accidental captures. Biologists used cage traps and padded mental in providing justifica- At that time, bobcats were still listed as endangered, but biolo- foothold traps to capture bobcats tion to reclassify bobcats in gists had already begun to see a unharmed and then attached Indiana from endangered to dramatic increase in the number radio collars to follow their move- protected nongame. of cats that were reported struck ments and activities. The idea by vehicles or accidentally cap- was to let radioed bobcats dictate tured by trappers. Was this indica- the size and shape of the study area. 30 43 bobcats trapped: Mortality factors: have moved only an average of During seven winter trapping Seventeen of the 38 radioed six miles from their capture site sessions, biologists captured 43 bobcats died during the time of before entering their first breed- different bobcats (27 males, 16 the study, and as expected, ing season. females) in portions of Greene, human-related factors have Home range analyses are ongo- Lawrence and Martin counties. been principal sources of mor- ing; so far, the annual home Biologists captured 21 adults, 19 tality. Nine cats were struck by range size of an established, res- juveniles and three kittens. They vehicles, three were shot, and ident adult male averages about recorded body size, tooth wear four died from unknown causes. 30 square miles, while that of an and reproductive condition that Only one young adult male died adult female averages 16 square indicate age. Biologists affixed from natural causes: head miles. radio collars to 38 bobcats (25 injuries and associated infec- males, 13 females) and followed tions presumably inflicted Next steps: Biologists will each cat’s movements and activ- during a conflict with another continue monitoring the six ities for an average of 1.5 years. predator. remaining radioed bobcats, including three dispersing males, through spring 2006 before resuming more detailed analyses of home range, sur- vival and habitats used by Indiana bobcats.

An aide places ointment in a bobcat’s eyes to protect its vision, since the animal doesn’t blink when sedated. (WDS staff/IDNR)

Long-range travelers: Most Several adult males, including fascinating is the dispersal the first bobcat captured, have behavior of juvenile bobcats as worn four different collars and they seek to establish territories were monitored for four to five that they will occupy as breed- years. The core study area has ing adults. The maximum linear since expanded to include por- distance traveled by 12 radioed tions of Crane Naval Support males has averaged nearly 100 Weapons Center, Martin State miles, including four cats that Forest, Hoosier National Forest were subsequently recovered in and private properties through- western Illinois, northern out eight contiguous counties in Kentucky, as well as Cincinnati, south-central Indiana. Ohio, and Lansing, Michigan. In contrast, five juvenile females 31 Information Resources

Want to know more about nongame and endangered species? Look here! Web resources Walker, Z. W., N. E. Engbrecht, A. J. Berger, and M. J. Lodato. More herps info Indiana Department of Natural from Purdue Resources: www.in.gov/dnr 2005. Geographic Distribution: Notophthalmus viridescens Indiana Division of Fish and louisianensis. SSAR Herp Our herpetologist, Zack Walker, Wildlife: Review 36(1):72 www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild Walker, Z. W. and B. Fisher. has collaborated with Purdue Indiana Wildlife Diversity 2005. Geographic Distribution: Section: www.in.gov/dnr/fish- Pseudemys concinna. SSAR to produce more books like wild/endangered Herp Review 36(1):78 “Snakes of Indiana.” “Turtles Indiana’s reptiles Walker, Z. W. and G. Deichsel. 2005. Geographic Distribution: and amphibians Podarcis muralis. SSAR Herp of Indiana” was published in In 2001 the DNR and Purdue Review 36(2):202 University published “Snakes of 2005, “Salamanders of Indiana.” Some proceeds from Tordoff, H.B., J.A. Goggin, and the sale of this book go directly J.S. Castrale. 2004. Midwest Indiana” is expected in 2006, to the Nongame Fund. You can peregrine falcon restoration, call the DNR Information 2004 report. Center to order a copy at and “Frogs and Toads of (877) 463-6367. Indiana” should be published Biologist scientific reports in 2007. For more information Our biologists contributed to several scientific publications in call Purdue Extension at 2005. These include: 888-EXT-INFO (1-888-398-4636). Brack, V., Jr., J.A. Duffey, R.K. Dunlap, and S.A. Johnson. 2005. Flooding of hibernacula in Indiana: are some caves popula- tion sinks? Bat Research News 46:71-74.

Brack, V., Jr., R.K. Dunlap, and S.A. Johnson. 2005. Albinism in the Indiana bat, Myotis sodalis. Bat Research News 46:55-58.

32 Meet the WDS Staff

The Wildlife Diversity always wanted to be outside dis- gy and environmental sciences. I Section is a small, covering nature. I really didn’t participated in the first Earth “get into” school until college; Day celebration in 1970. A trip to hearty and hardwork- finally my classes began to Rocky Mountain National Park in ing crew. Learn about reflect my interest. Colorado was instrumental in my decision to pursue a wildlife the biologists and I received a bachelor’s degree in staff who collectively career. I attended Indiana wildlife management from University, and I received a manage the state’s Northwestern State University of bachelor’s degree in wildlife sci- nongame and endan- Louisiana. I obtained a master’s ence at Purdue. I also attended degree and doctorate in zoology gered wildlife. West Virginia University, and I (studying animal behavior and obtained my doctorate in population ecology, respectively) wildlife and range resources at at Southern Illinois University- Brigham Young University in Carbondale. Utah. I was born a Hoosier and Based solely on my childhood grew up in Evansville. memories in the outdoors, I count myself one of the wealthi- est people in the United States. My goal as Wildlife Diversity Section chief is to ensure that future generations can find a similar wealth of experiences in Indiana’s natural world.

(WDS staff/IDNR)

Katie Smith, Wildlife Diversity Section chief

There is no mystery as to how I (WDS staff/IDNR) became interested in wildlife. The mystery is, “Why isn’t every- Brant Fisher, one in my family a wildlife biolo- aquatic biologist, with gist?” I spent my summers in a lake sturgeon rustic camp house on the banks of Clear Creek in central I became interested in working Louisiana’s Grant Parish. From with fisheries the summer after my freshman year in college dawn to dusk, we seined, fished, (WDS staff/IDNR) hunted for fossils and explored. when I worked as an assistant John Castrale, fisheries biologist in Salem, When I was “in town” during the avian biologist, with peregrine Oregon, through the Student school year, we still had Bayou Conservation Association. After Roberts in our back yard, full of A high school biology teacher that, I knew I wanted to work in birds, fish, frogs and nutria. I first got me interested in ecolo- fisheries professionally. I have a

33 bachelor’s degree in biology from Grove City College, Pennsylvania. My master’s degree is in aquatic sciences from Purdue University. I joined the DNR in 1995. I’ve been mar- ried for almost 12 years, and I have three boys, Jacob, Brody and Devin, aged 8, 5 and 4. I grew up in Pennsylvania.

(WDS staff/IDNR) (WDS staff/IDNR)

Zack Walker, Kacie Ehrenberger, herpetologist, with hellbender staff specialist

I have been interested in wildlife I grew up in Winston-Salem, since I can remember. During North Carolina. My father was in my college years, I had the a model railroaders club that opportunity to work with Scott happened to meet at the cities’ Johnson, the DNR’s mammalo- Nature Science Center. When I gist [see left]. This experience went to meetings with him, I (WDS staff/IDNR) helped me point my education spent most of my time watching and career path toward the job I the animals and talking to the Scott Johnson, currently have. I am interested staff who worked with them. I mammologist, with bobcat in all aspects of biology and thought I wanted to be a veteri- enjoy traveling to see new cul- narian until I discovered I liked I grew up in Warren, a blue-col- tures, habitats and species. working outdoors with all lar town in northeastern Ohio. I natural resources. have a bachelor’s degree in zool- I grew up in Bloomington, and I ogy from Ohio University and a received my bachelor’s degree I got my bachelor’s degree in master’s degree in wildlife man- in wildlife science and master’s forestry and wildlife at Virginia agement from University of degree in biology from Purdue Tech and my master’s degree in Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I University. After college, I forestry and natural resources at worked for two years in several worked for the Division of Fish Purdue University. I was a natu- research positions with the and Wildlife as the deer ralist for the Indianapolis Parks Department of Wildlife Ecology research biologist, taking me to Department for a year and have at University of Wisconsin- the Bloomington office in my been with the Division of Fish Madison. I joined the DNR as home stomping grounds. I then and Wildlife for two years. the mammal biologist in 1986. transferred to my current posi- How I got interested in wildlife tion as WDS herpetologist. is a mystery to me, but perhaps it results from endless hours as a kid catching frogs and turtles in a fairly pristine creek.

34 Supporting Indiana’s Wildlife

In 2005 these partners supported various Wildlife Diversity projects:

(Listed in alphabetical order) How You Bectren Corporation How You Evansville Cinergy/PSI CanCan Help!Help! Plainfield

D.J. Case and Associates Contributions to the Indiana You can help by donating all or Mishawaka Nongame Fund have brought a portion of your tax refund on Dubois County Rural Electric ospreys and bald eagles back to Line 33 of your IT-40 form, OR Cooperative, Inc. our skies and otters to our donate directly by sending a Jasper waters. The programs discussed check or money order to: in this report as well as many Indiana American Water other restoration, management Nongame Fund Greenwood and land acquisition projects 402 W. Washington St. Rm. implemented by the Wildlife W273 Indiana Chapter, Diversity Section rely on contri- Indianapolis, IN 46204 The Nature Conservancy butions from individuals like you. (317) 234-3361 Indianapolis Because the WDS depends on Indiana State University, donations to the Nongame Department of Geography, Fund, we can only conserve Geology and Anthropology Indiana’s wildlife with your help. Terre Haute All donors make a difference to Indiana State University, our program. A group of school- Department of Ecology and children learning about endan- Organismal Biology gered species can help by Terre Haute raising money to donate. Conservation-minded Hoosiers Midwest can contribute through the Biodiversity Institute income tax check-off. Columbus, Ohio National Audubon Society New York City, New York Purdue University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources West Lafayette

35 How you can help!

Contributions to the Indiana Nongame Fund have brought ospreys and bald eagles back to our skies and otters to our waters.

You can help by donating all or a portion of your tax refund on Line 33 of your IT-40 form, OR donate directly by sending a check or money order to:

Nongame Fund 402 W. Washington St. Rm. W273 Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 234-3361 www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/endangered/