Species at Risk in Nova Scotia IDENTIFICATION & INFORMATION GUIDE

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© JENNIFER MCKINNON little best Scotia. are “Surveying live Diane, This on looking not impact guide the who When to land for was disturb want as for we species possible" around created the find to it…this most learn one at them: for risk more rare we way folks is observe an and about we in e x fascinating can citing Nova and the help endangered adventure…because appreciate Scotia, - Har a lot creatures old &DianeClapp lik while e it, species Harold but having in do Nova that and our we as i Some Faces of the Species at Risk Community ii

TOM HERMAN (ACADIA) BRENNAN CAVERHILL (PC) & VOLUNTEERS STEPHEN FLEMMING (PC) & TEAM JOHN GILHEN (NS MUSEUM) & TEAM JEFFIE MCNEIL (PC) RUTH NEWELL (ACADIA) & NATURALISTS SHERMAN BOATES (NS DNR)

DUNCAN SMITH (PC) & VOLUNTEERS DUNCAN BAYNE (NSNT) & NATURALISTS ROB CAMERON (NS DEL) & TEAM TERRY POWER (NS DNR) & TEAM MARK ELDERKIN (NS DNR)

SAMARA EATON (NS DNR) TED D’EON (STEWARD) NORM GREEN (FRIENDS OF KEJI) ANDREW BOYNE (CWS) JULIE MCKNIGHT (CWS) WENDY RODENHIZER (BCAF) & TEAM JUNE SWIFT (STEWARD)

CANADIAN SEA TURTLE NETWORK TEAM SHALAN JOUDRY (L’SITKUK) & TEAM AMANDA LAVERS (MTRI) SUE ABBOTT (BSC) & GUARDIANS GERALD DOLLIVER (STEWARD) How this field guide came to be

At our first volunteer appreciation night, a steward approached me with an idea. He thought something that could really help people interested in nature would be a field guide that not only provided a comprehensive list of all the species at risk in the province but also a little information about them. His main point was that he would be more comfortable informing authorities about a possible sighting if he had some certainty that he had accurately identified it. This immediately made me reflect on my high school days when the most empowering thing I received was a Peterson Field Guide to the Birds. I started to identify things, I started to feel some sense of ownership, I started to recognize that maybe I could contribute. It was a field guide. But it was empowerment.

This guide is a tool for stewardship. It is an opportunity for you to learn more about the species that help make Nova Scotia the very special place it is. I encourage you to look carefully around home and during your travels throughout the province. The very first step in conservation is knowing where the species are. For my part, I am continually humbled by how little we know, despite great efforts to understand. Your contribution could be very significant, and I think it is only fitting that the very people who suggested the field guide in the first place also located a new population of Blanding’s turtles in the Tobeatic. STEPHEN FLEMMING Stewardship is an ownership of responsibility, a sense of advocacy, for nature. By all means, feel free to share the information in this guide, and the learning that you have made along the way, with as many people as you can. We have many challenges facing us, with a growing world population, climate change, and habitat destruction, to name only a few. But I know that if we pull together, and share what is special about species at risk, and what they tell us about our world, we can make a difference. We are making a difference!

So, hats off to Harold & Diane Clapp! Great idea. Thanks for finding the turtles. Hope this works for you. To everyone else, enjoy the guide and consider yourself a part of our team.

Introduction ...... i Piping Plover Charadrius melodus melodus 7 Some Faces of the Species at Risk Community ...... ii Red Knot Calidris canutus rufa 9 Message from Stephen Flemming ...... iii Table of Contents ...... iv, v Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii 11 What are Species at Risk? ...... vi Chimney Swift Chaetura pelagica 13 How are they protected? ...... vii Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor 15 Who are they? ...... vii Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus cooperi 17 Why are they important? ...... viii What threatens their survival? ...... viii Barrow’s Goldeneye Bucephala islandica 19 Where do they live? ...... viii Bicknell’s Thrush Catharus bicknelli 21 Do you have them on your property? ...... viii Harlequin Duck Histrionicus histrionicus 23 What if you observe one? ...... ix How can you help? ...... ix Ipswich Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis princeps 25 How to use this guide ...... x, xi Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus anatum 27 Note: Rusty Blackbird Euphagus carolinus nigrans 29 Species are ordered within each group by status (Endangered, Threatened, Special Concern), then Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus 31 by common name in alphabetical order. Mammals Reptiles Blanding’s turtle Emydoidea blandingii 33 American Marten Martes americana 1 Eastern Ribbbonsnake Thamnophis sauritus 35 Canada Lynx Lynx canadensis 3 Wood turtle Glyptemys insculpta 37 Mainland Moose Alces alces americana 5 Fish Plants - Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora

Atlantic Whitefish Coregonus huntsmani 39 Pink Coreopsis Coreopsis rosea 63 Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar 41 Thread-leaved Sundew Drosera filiformis 65 Lichens Water-pennywort Hydrocotyle umbellata 67 Plymouth Gentian Sabatia kennedyana 69 Boreal Felt Lichen Erioderma pedicellatum 43 Golden Crest Lophiola aurea 71 Frosted Glass-whiskers Sclerophora peronella 45 Redroot Lachnanthes caroliana 73 Ghost Antler Lichen Pseudevernia cladonia 47 Tubercled Spike-rush Eleocharis tuberculosa 75 Insects Eastern Lilaeopsis Lilaeopsis chinensis 77 Long’s Bulrush Scirpus longii 79 Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus 49 New Jersey Rush Juncus caesariensis 81 Molluscs Sweet Pepperbush Clethra alnifolia 83

Yellow Lampmussel Lampsilis cariosa 51 Marine Species at Risk Leatherback Turtle; North Atlantic Right Whale; Northern Bottlenose Whale; Blue Whale; Porbeagle Plants Shark; White Shark; Winter Skate; Cusk; Northern Wolffish; Spotted Wolffish; Striped Bass; Short-finned Mako; Atlantic Wolffish; Atlantic Harbour Porpoise; Atlantic Cod; American Eel; Blue Shark. 85 Eastern Mountain Avens Geum peckii 53 Extirpated & Extinct Species Ram’s Head Lady Slipper Cypripedium arietinum 55 Eastern Wolf; Woodland Caribou; Atlantic Walrus; Grey Whale; Sea Mink; Labrador Duck; Passenger Pigeon; Great Auk; Eelgrass Limpet. 87 Rockrose Helianthemum canadense 57 Notes and Acronyms ...... 88 Eastern White Cedar Thuja occidentalis 59 Acknowledgements ...... 89 Prototype Quillwort Isoetes prototypus 61 v What are Species at Risk? vi The following table depicts the different jurisdictions, legislations, Species at risk are plants and animals that are in trouble, and need assessment bodies, and primary status categories for species at risk in our help. There are over 500 in Canada and more than 40 have Canada and Nova Scotia. already been recognized in this province, in addition to around 20 in our surrounding waters. Every one of these species is in danger of Jurisdiction Legislation Assessment Status disappearing from Nova Scotia, Canada, or even the entire planet. Body Categories Extinct, Extirpated Species are assessed by experts, at national and provincial levels, who Committee On the Canada Status of Endangered Endangered identify which species are at risk and in need of conservation and Species at Risk Act Threatened (SARA) Wildlife in Canada Special Concern recovery efforts. Each species is placed in one of the following six (COSEWIC) status categories, which describes how much trouble it is in: Not At Risk EXTINCT: No longer living anywhere on the planet. Extinct, Extirpated Nova Scotia Nova Scotia Nova Scotia Endangered EXTIRPATED: No longer living in a particular region Endangered Species at Risk Species Act Threatened (province, country) but still exists elsewhere. (NS ESA) Working Group Vulnerable ENDANGERED: Facing imminent extinction. Not at Risk THREATENED: Likely to become endangered if limiting factors are Blue not reversed. Nova Scotia Black None General Status VULNERABLE/SPECIAL CONCERN: Sensitive to activities that may make it Assessment Team Red endangered or threatened. Yellow NOT AT RISK: Not at risk of extinction. Green

In this guide you will see the national and provincial status of each The provincial and federal species next to its name. status for a species may differ, as the provincial The status by the Canadian flag refers to its listing under Y E

L status is for populations in SARA - www.sararegistry.gc.ca, or designation by COSEWIC - W O R

C Nova Scotia, while the www.cosewic.gc.ca.

N A G

E federal status is for M The status by the flag of Nova Scotia refers to its listing under the © populations in Canada. NS ESA - www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/specieslist.htm. How are they protected? Who are they?

Species At Risk Act (SARA) Over 2400 species across the country have been assessed under the This Act applies to all species at risk (including General Status of Species in Canada. migratory birds and marine species) on lands and waters administered by the federal government in Canada. Under this act, all species at risk and their habitat are protected by federal law. www.sararegistry.gc.ca

Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act (NS ESA) This Act applies to all species at risk on land administered by the provincial government in © US FWS © MEGAN CROWLEY Nova Scotia. Under this act, all species at risk and In Nova Scotia, only a handful of species that are in trouble are their habitat are protected by provincial law. legally listed under SARA or NS ESA. Over 160 species that live www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/legislation_ here are listed as RED (at risk or potentially at risk) and more than nsesa.htm 180 are YELLOW (sensitive), yet they are not protected by law. This guide provides information for only the small subset of legally listed Recovery Teams species. A full list of RED and YELLOW species can be found at: In addition to laws that protect species at risk, all species listed as www.wildspecies.ca threatened or endangered in Canada under SARA are to have a www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/genstatus/ Recovery Team that advises on how best to protect and recover these species. Members include people from communities, universities, all levels of government, parks, museums, aboriginal L L groups, NGO and other conservation organizations. Recovery I H R E V actions include research, education, communication, A C

N A management, and stewardship. N N E R B www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/species_recovery.htm vii © Why are they important? Where do they live? viii All species that live on the Earth have inherent value, but humans Species at risk live throughout Nova Scotia in a variety of habitat also give them ecological, cultural, spiritual, economic, and other including wetlands, waterways, lakeshores, forests, barrens, and importance as well. Depending on your philosophy, or world view, coastlines. The southwest region of the province has a notable you will find different ways in which each is important to you, or abundance of biodiversity, which is one reason it has been your community. designated by UNESCO as a “Biosphere Reserve”. Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Some species at risk are indicators of environmental health, and Five counties in southwest Nova others are staples of major industries, or attractions for ecotourism. Scotia comprise the Biosphere Reserve: Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, Some have medicinal value, and all are beautiful to behold. Each Shelburne, and Queens. This area can act as a representative of its natural habitat, and all the other shows a “balanced relationship species, and processes, that occur there. between humans and the biosphere”, meaning that collaborative efforts Species at risk put a face to conservation, and allow people a more among people promote the intimate connection with nature. Perhaps most importantly of all, sustainability of local economies and communities, as well as the they have stories to tell and if they disappear they will be gone conservation of terrestrial and forever, and lost for all generations to come. coastal ecosystems. Its core protected areas are Kejimkujik What threatens their survival? National Park and National Historic Site, and the Many species are in trouble because of the Tobeatic Wilderness Area threats they face, most of which are caused by © WWW.SNBRA.CA humans. Habitat destruction and disturbance Do you have them on your property? are the major factors, but pollution, climate change, road mortality, over-harvesting, and If yes, congratulations! You may be excited about the privilege of the introduction of invasive species are all having one or more of the most rare and fascinating species in Nova major problems as well. Natural processes like Scotia in your own backyard - very few people do. If you are predation, disease, and extreme weather events interested, you have the opportunity to get involved in are also factors that threaten species. consultation, volunteer monitoring, and stewardship programs. What if you observe one? How can you help? First and foremost, take special care not to disturb or harm the Everyone can help species at risk by taking actions to reduce species, but observe it and enjoy the rare opportunity. environmental impacts, reporting sightings, participating in Next, photograph the species and note the location of your volunteer programs, or becoming a steward. People across Nova sighting (on a map, or with a GPS). Scotia are contributing to conservation by giving their time and Record any additional observations that are of interest. energy to local recovery actions. You can become a Piping Plover Finally, report the sighting to the species at risk hotline at guardian, or get involved in Blanding’s turtle nest watches, coastal 1-866-727-3467, email [email protected], or visit plain flora monitoring, bird surveys, and ribbonsnake surveys, just www.speciesatrisk.ca to name a few of the programs that are available!

You can make a difference: learn how to recognize these species and report sightings. Understand the threats they face, especially in your local area - this is where you can help the most. Share what you know with your friends and family, and read the specific actions you can take for each species outlined throughout this guide. For more 7 0

0 information about species at risk, search the web or visit: 2

, M J

) www.speciesatrisk.ca/stewardship, C ( www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.nsnt.ca, www.bsc-eoc.org, www.hww.ca, www.coastalaction.org, www.merseytobeatic.ca ix Status Range Description x This is a typical The status of species changes over time - listings in this Describes where the species is Species Identification & Information Card guide are current as of January 2008 (check the web known or expected to occur in that shows how each species will be presented. These Common Name for current info). The National status is shown next to Nova Scotia (most also exist pages describe how the card is set up, how to interpret the Canadian flag and the Provincial status is shown elsewhere in Canada or the range maps, where to look for certain information or Scientific next to the Nova Scotia flag. world); sometimes includes the photos, and other tips on how to use this guide. Name number of individuals estimated (Genus species) National: SARA/COSEWIC Provincial: NS ESA to exist in the population(s).

Colour Code Range Map The background colour behind the species name denotes Shaded where the species is known to occur: red the taxonomic group, or species classification (e.g. (summer), blue (winter), or purple (year-round). mammals: brown, birds: blue, etc.) Where species have been studied extensively we provide specific ranges. However, ranges are more Species Photo general when less is known. Detailed photo(s) of the species that show Note: Species may also be found outside the indicated distinguishing characteristics clearly. range as new populations are discovered. Habitat Description Species Description The environment (physical/biological features) in which Distinguishing characteristics of the species are the species is found, sometimes including the community described, including shape, size, colour, male/female/ (other species) that usually occur in this habitat. juvenile differences, and so on. Habitat Photos Key Identifiers © Sighting Locations Detailed photos showing the habitat in which the species This space is for a Photographer Describes where and when people are is found - we try and provide a range of angles and detailed drawing(s) copyrights are most likely to see the species, which scales, showing the habitat from a distance, and close-up. or photo(s) that indicated where may not be in typical habitat. Here, show other key necessary. we also provide flowering times for identifying plants, and sometimes specific Page One characteristics. locations where you might encounter the species. Threats To Survival Reasons why the species is at risk are listed; some threats Interesting Points Photos occur naturally (and are Engaging, exciting, curious, This space is for sometimes called “limiting or otherwise interesting photos that factors” or “stressors”), but points are listed about the depict interesting most are caused/inflicted by species. points. humans.

Similar Species Other species that are similar in appearance are Threats described; the ways that people often confuse the two Photos that depict the threats (dangers) that face the are listed, and key distinguishing characteristics are species may be shown here. provided. Stewardship Although you might think you’ve seen a Species at Risk, This space is for photos that depict stewardship there are many “look-alikes” out there with which they opportunities, or people working to look after the species. can be confused. To confirm your sighting, be sure to take a photo!

Although we provide photos and descriptions of most similar species, some are not covered in this guide. Others are very difficult to distinguish. We recommend you consult other resources (field guides, on-line materials) to further assist your identification. Photos How You Can Help Contact: Info for agencies/jurisdictions helping to recover this species This space is for The ways that people, at risk; contact them for general inquiries. photos that depict the organizations, and communities Info: References for additional information about the species. similar species. can help are highlighted. This Sighting Reports: The phone number and email address to which includes simple things you can do you can report sightings. Page Two every day at home, to more Stewardship: Contacts for volunteer and stewardship opportunities. advanced volunteer and stewardship opportunities. xi 1 American Marten Not listed STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Martes americana (Cape Breton Population)

There are likely fewer than 50 marten left in Cape Breton. Recent records confirm their existence in southwest Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Found in mature coniferous forests, where food supply is abundant (mice, chipmunks, rabbits, shrews, insects, reptiles, fruits, and berries). In recent years marten have been observed in mixed forests as well as cutovers adjacent to standing timber. Preferred resting and hunting areas are in rotting logs, stumps and burrows. They are rarely found in open fields, where there is no protection from predators or weather.

L L E W L O C

Y R R A L

Species Description D A N A C

The American Marten, or Pine Marten, is a member of the weasel family. It K R A P has a slender body with a small sharp-pointed head, rounded ears and a bushy tail. Its coat is dark with a light orange patch under its belly and © throat. Males are 80 cm long (including a 20 cm tail), females are slightly American Marten are typically observed in mixed wood or coniferous smaller. They have semi-retractable, cat-like claws. forests, in the habitat described above. Interesting Points They are agile and fast, and can move in trees for hundreds of yards without falling to the ground. Front They are nocturnal, excellent swimmers, fearless, and very curious (which many humans confuse with tameness). Marten are called “Apistanéwj” in the Mi’kmaw language. Marten 25 - 120 cm tracks (10 - 48”)

Hind S S I W L F L 10 cm A S U W

(4”) T N I T ©

H O Threats to Survival C C

A T S © I

R Initial decline in Nova Scotia due to unregulated over-trapping (1700-1900) K

© Similar Species Today, habitat loss and degradation, and small isolated populations (which Marten Release Program in Cape Breton provide few breeding opportunities) are the biggest threats. Mink: Fisher: Short-tailed Weasel: Similar size (60-80 cm); darker fur; Larger (80-100 cm); skull wider; Much smaller (30 cm), long How You Can Help less prominent ears; frosted or grizzled fur; and skinny, thin tail; white Partnerships with local stakeholders like found more often near water. less prominent ears. chest; fur white in winter. landowners, foresters, and trappers (who are currently collecting good data for NS DNR) are key to helping the marten. If you fall into one of these categories, find out more (contact below). Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports Contact: NS DNR in Kentville, Nova Scotia (902) 679-6091 Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/martenandlynx/, www.gov.ns.ca/natr/ Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] 2 3 Canada Lynx Not listed STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Lynx canadensis

Found in high elevation areas in Cape Breton. Lynx populations are cyclic and range from 100-500 individuals in Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Occurs in a diversity of habitats for denning, shelter and food, in areas with deep winter snow. Typically found in coniferous forests with snowshoe hares (their main prey). Requires forests that exhibit patterns of disturbance (insect outbreaks, fire) and regeneration, which creates pockets of different forest types suitable for different activities. S I L L A W

T T O C S Y E © L W O R C

Species Description R N N A D

G S E N M The Canada Lynx is a medium-sized cat (80-90 cm long) with long legs, © large paws, and a short tail with a solid black tip. In the winter its coat is a © mottled greyish colour, changing to reddish brown in the summer. It has Lynx are typically observed in high elevation areas in Cape Breton such long black-tipped ear tufts. It is a secretive and shy species that is mainly as Cape Breton Highlands, North Mountain, Keppoch Highlands, and active during the night. Boisdale Hills. Interesting Points Threats to Survival The Mi’kmaw name for Lynx is “Apuksikn” Historically, un-regulated Has cyclical population fluctuations trapping greatly reduced approximately every ten years. the lynx population. Extirpated from mainland Nova Scotia Public trapping was in the 1950s, but lynx from Cape Breton banned in the 1980s, but can travel as far as Yarmouth County lynx are still incidentally when food is scarce. caught in traps set for Its large paws, covered in dense hair, act other species. like snowshoes during the winter in deep Bobcat Lynx Global warming may

snowy conditions R cause more moderate

ear ear N D

S winters and disruptions to N

Similar Species © the snowshoe hare cycle. Bobcat: Forestry activities fragment and modify Lynx S

Found throughout the province; slightly smaller I L L

habitat. A

(80-88 cm long); shorter limbs and smaller W

T Bobcats and coyotes may T O

paws; short ear tufts; more spotty and darker C S compete for prey. coloured fur; top of tail black with black bars. © How You Can Help Lynx Learn to recognize this species and report sightings. Reduce your greenhouse gas emissions at home and work to help maintain the deep snow found in Cape Breton. Be an advocate of sustainable forestry practices. Trappers can learn how to avoid accidentally catching lynx and proper release methods at: www.speciesatrisk.ca/martenandlynx/ Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports S I

L Bobcat L Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 A W R

T N Info: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/specieslist.htm T D

O S C S N Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] © © 4 5 Eastern Moose Not listed STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Alces alces americana (Mainland Population)

There are likely fewer than 1000 moose living throughout mainland Nova Scotia, with concentrations in the Tobeatic Wilderness and Cobequid Mountains. Population Range Habitat Moose are herbivores who live in boreal and mixed-wood forests. They are often found where there is an abundance of food (twigs, stems, and foliage of young deciduous trees and shrubs). In spring, islands and peninsulas are often used by cows when giving birth. In summer, access to wetlands (and aquatic vegetation) is important. R N D

S N © Species Description The Eastern Moose is the largest member of the Cervidae (deer) family. It has a solid torso and short tail, with long legs and broad, high shoulders. Moose have a short neck, broad over-hanging R R N N D muzzle and long ears. Their fur has a coarse, brittle D

S S N texture and varies in colour from shades of brown, N © © to brown-black, to grey. Adult males are known for their large, palmate (broad and flattened) antlers People see moose on or near the road while driving, and outdoor-folk and the “bell” or dewlap that hangs on the upper sometimes encounter moose in the woodland and wetland habitat throat region. Moose track and droppings described above. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Native moose in Cape Poaching (made easier with Breton disappeared by the increased access via roads 1800s; animals found there and OHVs). today were introduced from Recreational based Alberta in the 1940s. disturbance. Evidence suggests that Disease and parasites (brain R N D

mainland moose have worm and winter tick). S N

nearly gone extinct twice in © Pollution (heavy metals, the past. Bull moose acidification and global R N D

A mechanical moose warming). S N

nicknamed “Bullwinkle” has Habitat loss and © been used to catch poachers modification. Sick mainland moose on mainland Nova Scotia. Hunting Mainland How You Can Help Moose is Illegal Do not disturb moose! Report sightings, or signs like antlers R N D To Report Illegal Activity: or scat - take a photograph, S N

Phone 1-800-565-2224 © note the date, time and Cow moose

location. Report observations L L I

Due to the covert nature of H to the hotline below, or fill in R E V

poaching, it is impossible to A C an online form at: N A

count how many mainland N N E R B moose are illegally slaught- www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/ © ered. Recent enforcement web/msform.htm Scat is the size and shape of chocolate almonds actions by NS DNR clearly show that illegal harvest is a Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports serious threat to the long Contact: NS Department of Natural Resources at (902) 679-6091 term health of moose in some Info: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/ , www.cpawsns.org/moose/

mainland areas of Nova R N

D Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected]

S Scotia. N 6 © 7 Piping Plover Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Charadrius melodus melodus Approximately 40 breeding pairs are located on coastal beaches along the north and south shores of Nova Scotia. Winter from North Carolina to Cuba. Population Range Habitat Found along coastal beaches in open or sparsely vegetated areas of sand or pebble, or on mud flats. Nest and raise young from May to August on dry, open ground between the dense dune vegetation and the high tide mark. Nests are small depressions, lined with small pebbles or shells, and are well camouflaged. M O O T

S N A H © Species Description The Piping Plover is a small shorebird (17-18 cm), with sandy-gray A A D D A upperparts and white underparts. It has a black band around the neck and A N N A A C

T forehead, an orange bill with a black tip and orange legs. Chicks have S N E I E D M U sandy-gray upperparts, white underparts, no black on the neck and N T O S

R I D V forehead and a solid black bill. Its call is a whistled “peep lo”. R I N B E

Nest scrape with eggs Piping Plovers are migratory shorebirds that are observed on coastal Walk on the beach here beaches from mid-April through September during breeding and migration. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Individuals can live up to 14 Crows, gulls, and other predators eat eggs, M O

years. and young and are attracted to the beach O T

S N

To court a female, males A

by garbage. H © perform a “goose step” display. Humans (on foot and in vehicles) and Disturbance by humans or predators can cause pairs to dogs disturb plover families and sometimes abandon their breeding site. destroy nests. Close approaches to parents Habitat loss from natural beach succession may result in a broken wing and shoreline development. display.

How You Can Help A D Male will act as “Mr. Mom” A N A C

During nesting season (mid-April to August) S for his chicks if female leaves M E O I O D T U

family early. T S avoid disturbing plovers: walk on the wet sand, S N

A D H R keep your dog on a leash, and do not drive I B ©

Similar Species © Male performing goose step display OHVs along the beach. A D Semipalmated Plover: Killdeer: Sanderling: Do not litter. Pick up A N A C

Similar size (18 cm) and shape; Larger size (27 cm); chocolate-brown Similar size (18-20 cm); longer, black S garbage, tell your K R A P

chocolate-brown upperparts; dark upperparts; orange rump; double bill; mottled, brownish or grey ,

friends how to help, L L I

marking under eye; often seen in stripe on breast; loud repeated call upperparts; black legs; often seen in H R E

and get involved - V A

large flocks on water’s edge. when agitated. Often nest in open large flocks on water’s edge. C

become a Piping A fields and parking lots. N N E R

Plover Guardian. B

Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Contact: Environment Canada (902) 426-4196 or www.ec.gc.ca Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Stewardship: Piping Plover Guardian Program - Bird Studies Canada M M M

O O O (902) 426-4055, or [email protected]. O O O T T T

S S S Kejimkujik Area Stewardship Program, N N N A A A H H H www.speciesatrisk.ca/stewardship

9 Red Knot Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Calidris canutus rufa

Fewer than 15, 000 of the rufa subspecies are left in the wild. Some visit coastal Nova Scotia during migration in the summer and fall. Winters in southern South America. Population Range Habitat Their wintering grounds and habitat during migration consist of coastal areas with large sandflats or mudflats, where they can feed on invertebrates. Peat banks, salt marshes, brackish lagoons and mussel beds are also visited. They breed in the arctic in barren habitats like windswept ridges, slopes and plateaus. Y E L S A

A G D E A R N G A

K R A P

Species Description , L L L L I I H H R R E E V The Red Knot, rufa subspecies, is a medium-sized (25-28 cm) shorebird V A A C C

N N A with a small head and straight, thin bill. In their non-breeding plumage, A N N N N E E R they have a light grey back (with white feather edges), grey-brown breast R B B

streaks, white underparts and grey legs. Juveniles are similar in appearance but have a black band along the inside of the white feather edge, buffy Red Knots migrate through Nova Scotia along the coast in the summer underparts, and green-yellow legs. In their breeding plumage, they have a and fall. Adults in faded breeding plumage are observed in July and August, brilliant chestnut red breast, neck and face, white underparts, dark legs and a brown back with reddish, tan and black streaks. while juveniles are mainly seen from August to October. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Migrate thousands of km from Severe depletion of horseshoe F F

Arctic breeding grounds to crab eggs (a critical food O N R wintering range at the southern tip E source during migration) due H C

of South America. to overfishing of horseshoe O D

Without serious conservation T N

A Decreased habitat availability R

efforts this bird may become extinct R U M

during migration (from Y within 10 years. F H F T O A activities like wetland N C

Males care for the chicks on the R & E

H N

drainage). C

A L

breeding grounds until they can fly. N L O A

Disturbance, severe weather ©

© Similar Species Juvenile plumage events, oil pollution and Horseshoe crab climate change. Note: Godwits, curlews, snipes and woodcocks look similar, but can be distinguished by size and habitat. Sanderling: Willet: How You Can Help Smaller (20 cm); shorter, black bill; Larger (35-40 cm); paler grey on Avoid disturbing Knots and other mottled, brownish or grey upperparts; black back; striking black and white wing coastal birds when you observe legs; seen in large flocks on water’s edge. pattern in flight. them. Support a continued horseshoe crab moratorium in Delaware Bay. Be an advocate of shoreline protection, especially in F F O

important feeding areas along N R E H

migration routes. Participate in C

N O D

monitoring programs such as the © Maritimes Shorebird Survey. T N

A Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities R R U M

Y Contact: Environment Canada (902) 426-4196 or www.ec.gc.ca H T A C Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.dcwild.com (photos) &

N A

L Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] L A Stewardship: Maritime Shorebird Survey Coordinator: (505) 364-5044 10 ©

11 Roseate Tern Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Sterna dougallii

There are 80-120 breeding pairs on coastal islands along Nova Scotia. They winter along the coast of South America from Columbia to Brazil. Population Range Habitat Breed within large colonies of Common and Artic Terns on offshore islands in areas free of dense woody vegetation. Nests (or nest boxes) are often in low N O N

E grassy vegetation or heath where the ’ O D E

’ D D

chicks are able to conceal themselves. E T D E T ©

They require islands that are free of Species Description predators and close to foraging sites. © Nest boxes The Roseate Tern is a small gull-like seabird (33-41 cm). Its long, thin bill is solid black in May, and turns to black with a red base as the summer A D A

progresses. It has a white body, N A C black head, and deeply forked T N E M tail feathers. A pinkish tinge to N O N R I O V the breast is sometimes E ’ N E D

D © E observed. Adults have bright T © red legs, while chicks have Roseate Terns are typically observed with Common and Arctic Terns along black legs. Its call is a harsh In flight, distinctive features are the long split tail and the coast from May to September while migrating, resting, and feeding. skivick or zraaaach. dark bill. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Catch fish by patrolling Predation from birds (gulls, N O I

owls, crows, ravens, hawks) T over the water and A D N

and mink. U

plunge-diving from high O F

Human disturbance. N O

above the surface. I T C A

Loss of offshore island Travels up to 20 km to L A T S forage for fish. habitat. A O C N

O E S E Mortality on wintering Can hybridize with ’ O D

N E D E

grounds. U T Common and Arctic L B

© Terns. How You Can Help The name roseate comes from the pinkish hue Keep an eye out for seabird colonies (large concentrations sometimes observed on of birds) on islands from June to August. The presence of the breast. colonies may be marked by signs with the bird symbol on the right. Avoid disturbing colonies (with or without signs) Similar Species by staying off these islands.

Common Tern: Similar size (31-38 cm); bill slightly shorter and orange with a black tip.; mottled, gray body; adults and chicks have yellow or orange legs; less harsh call. N O E ’ D N

O D E E ’ T D

D ©

E Roseatte tern chick T ©

Arctic Tern: 7 0 0 2

Similar size (28-39 cm); shorter A Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities D A N

red bill; mottled or gray body; A C Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca T

short orange legs; less harsh call. N E

M Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca or www.hww.ca N

Chicks have orange or red legs. O R

I Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] V N E Stewardship: Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation (902) 624-9888, www.coastalaction.org 12 © 13 Chimney Swift Threatened STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Chaetura pelagica Fewer than 1000 individuals live in the maritime provinces. The population in Nova Scotia is declining rapidly. Winters in the Amazon River drainage basin in South America. Population Range Habitat Before Europeans arrived in North America, the birds used giant hollow trees for nesting sites; they still use this habitat today, but they also use abandoned chimneys in urban and rural areas where temperatures are relatively constant. Being aerial foragers, they concentrate in areas where insects are abundant, such as near lakes and wetlands. E L Y K

N A E G R O E G

L U A P

Species Description L L E I L H Y R K

E V N A A

The Chimney Swift is a small bird (12-14 cm) C E

G N R A O with dark brown plumage, and a pale throat. It N E N G E

R &

has a long, thin body, with long, narrow, L U © A

P pointed wings that project beyond the short Robie Tufts chimney swift museum in Wolfville © spiny tail when folded. It has a quick jerky flight. All ages and sexes are similar in Chimney Swifts are seen from mid-April through September at dusk and appearance. dawn throughout Nova Scotia. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Pairs are monogamous, and Dwindling number of breeding and roosting mate for life, beginning at sites due to logging, which reduces the age two. number of big, old, hollow trees.

The population in Canada G N I

Destruction of old abandoned buildings, M

is estimated at fewer than M E L F

which reduces the number of suitable

12,000 individuals. N E H P

One bird can eat over 1000 chimneys. E T S

insects per day. Light pollution and pesticide spraying, ©

They can not take off if Y

E which kills insects L S

they are on the ground! A L and reduces food G E R G availability

Similar Species ©

E L Y K

Note: N A E G

Swallows in Nova Scotia have a whitish breast, and smoother flight pattern than the chimney swift. R O E G

Cliff Swallow: Bank Swallow: Barn Swallow: L U A P Similar size (13 cm); blue back, brown Similar size (12 cm); brown Similar size (13 cm); blue back, © wings and tail, white belly and forehead; back, white belly; narrow brown face, buff belly; longer pointed tiny black bill. brown band on breast. tail. How You Can Help Foresters: leave big dead trees standing. Everyone: report sightings (especially known nesting sites), turn your outdoor lights off and minimize light pollution - save energy, money and birds! Support sustainable forestry practices and habitat restoration. Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.chimneyswifts.org Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] 14 15 Common Nighthawk Threatened STATUS Threatened Nova Scotia Chordeiles minor Found throughout Nova Scotia, but in dwindling numbers. The population in Canada has decreased by 50% over the past 40 years. Winters throughout South America. Population Range Habitat Breeding habitat is varied and includes open areas with little ground S I

C vegetation, such as sand dunes, beaches, logged or burned- N A R F

over areas, forest clearings, rocky outcrops (below), rock . M

E barrens, peat bogs, and pastures. L R A H C

Y B

, 7 0 0 2

, A D A N A C

F O

T N E M N R E V O G

L L

Species Description I H R E V A C The Common Nighthawk is a medium-sized (24 cm) bird, with a large N A N flattened head, large eyes, small bill, and large mouth. It has long slender N E R B pointed wings and a long, slightly notched tail. Its dark brown plumage is © mottled with black, white, and buff. In flight, adults have a white patch across their wings. They make a “buzz-squawk” sound in flight, and males Nighthawks are seen from mid-April through September in open areas make a booming noise with their wings when they dive. with lots of insects. Watch and listen for them feeding over lakes at dusk. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Two eggs are laid directly Reduction in habitat on bare soil, sand, gravel availability, due to fire or rock. suppression and intensive Only the female incubates agricultural practices. the eggs, and the male will Habitat degradation and

feed her. N E fragmentation. S S

They are aerial insectivores U M

S Depletion of insects as a A R

(they eat bugs in mid-air) N

A food source, due to and feed mainly at dusk G E M pesticides.

and dawn. ©

The “night jar” family are Light pollution in urban also called “goat suckers” settings where historically because they were believed nesting was common on to drink goat’s milk! flat roofs. The booming noises are Disturbance, severe made by the wings of the North America at night weather events, and N

male as they pull out of I K R

E climate change.

steep dives. D L E

R How You Can Help A M Similar Species A ©

Encourage sustainable land A N A C

use practices and do not use F O

Whip-poor-will: T N

pesticides. Report sightings, E M

Long, fine feathers surrounding the bill; N R

especially of known nest sites E V

rounded wings; larger tail patches that are O G or flocks in migration.

white (male) or buff (female). ©

Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Note: Common Poor-will and Chuck-will’s- Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca widow are also similar in appearance, but Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca or www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/ they are very rarely found in Nova Scotia. Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Stewardship: Bird Studies Canada 1-888-448-2473, www.bsc-eoc.org 16 17 Olive-Sided Flycatcher Threatened STATUS Not Listed Nova Scotia Contopus cooperi

Found throughout Nova Scotia, but in dwindling numbers. Winters in Central and South America. Population Range Habitat They are found in early post-fire landscapes or clearings, and like to perch on the tops of tall trees or snags, from which they take off to catch flying insects. They have a preference for coniferous forest edges, and openings like meadows, rivers, bogs, swamps, and ponds. N E K C O H

H P L A R

Y Y K brownish olive-grey on the face, K C C E E B B back, and sides. The throat, centre © ©

of breast and belly are whitish, and E K C Olive-sided Flycatchers are found in the summer along the edge of the O

the wings are dark with pale bars. H

P woods. Look for them at the tops of tall trees and snags near openings, and Both sexes and juveniles look L A R listen closely for its whistled song, “Quick, free beer!” ©

alike, but males are slightly larger. Interesting Points Threats to Survival How You Can Help Males aggressively defend large Although timber harvest could Participate in bird monitoring L L I

territories around nesting sites - H R provide more habitat locally, programs like the Maritimes E V A

they sometimes knock squirrels or C

N studies have found lower Breeding Bird Atlas and the A

larger birds out of trees to protect N N

E breeding success in these areas. Breeding Bird Survey. Support R

their eggs or chicks. B

© They feed on flying insects, Loss of wintering habitat, which sustainable forestry operations, especially bees. may have caused the serious and learn to recognize this species Their song sounds like “quick, free decline throughout its range. and report sightings. L L beer!”, and their call is a rapid I H R E

“pip pip pip”. V A C

N A N N

Similar Species E R B

© Note: The Alder and Yellow-bellied flycatchers also live in Nova Scotia and might be confused with this this species. Eastern Wood-pewee: Least Flycatcher: Smaller (15 cm); more prominent Smaller (13 cm); conspicuous white eye ring; wing-bars; dirty white belly; upper white wing bars; small bill and short tail. Song part of bill dark, lower is is “che-bec” and call “whit”. yellowish. Song is a cheerful .

“pee-a-wee” T G L N U I A M N I M P E

L N F

E N R E U H A P L

E T S ©

Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Stewardship: Bird Studies Canada 1-888-448-2473, www.bsc-eoc.org 18 19 Barrow’s Goldeneye Special Concern STATUS V ulnerable Nova Scotia Bucephala islandica

Approximately 400 individuals winter along the coast of the Atlantic Provinces and Maine. Breeds in Quebec. Population Range Habitat Occurs in sheltered areas along the coast and occasionally in ice-free inland rivers. Migrates in May to breed in the boreal forests of Quebec in small high elevation lakes and rivers. Males migrate further north in June to moult in areas such as Hudson Bay and Labrador. They return in November to winter along the St. Lawrence River in Quebec and sheltered coastlines in the E C I

V Maritimes. R E S

S K R A P

L A N O I T A N

S U

, O C A E P

M I J

Y Y ©

E E L L W W

Species Description O O R R C C

N N A A G G

Barrow’s Goldeneye is a medium-sized (43-48 cm) diving duck. Males are E E M M

© © black and white with a purplish black head and dark bill. Males have a crescent-shaped white patch near the base of their bill. Females have a Barrow’s Goldeneye is typically observed from November to April in grayish-brown back, whitish sides and belly, and a brown head. The bill of protected areas along the coast. Look for them in Pugwash, Wallace Bay, females is mostly orange in the winter/spring and is dark in the summer. Annapolis River and Louisburg. Juveniles are brownish with tan eyes and a dark bill. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Pairs are monogamous Winter: oil spills, sediment and indulge in a series contamination and hunting. of acrobatic courtship Summer: forestry activities (nest displays. destruction), logging roads Females nest in tree (increased accessibility for cavities that they line anglers and hunters), and fish with downy feathers stocking programs. and grass. They feed on aquatic How You Can Help insects and crustaceans Learn to recognize this species and in the summer, and report sightings. Report oil spills to molluscs and the Coast Guard by calling 1-800-

crustaceans in the Z

565-1633. E U G winter. I R D O R

. J / E R A

Similar Species F L

L A M Common Goldeneye: I N A

Similar size (40-51 cm); less angled head; larger bill. Males: round white patch at base of bill; greenish O F

head; less black on sides. Females: less rounded head; mostly black bill with an orange or yellow tip. N U F

L A N O Y I E T L A N W R O E R T C

N I N

A W G A E F I M

© © Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044, www.ec.gc.ca Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.qc.ec.ca/faune Sighting Reports:1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Male Female 20 21 Bicknell’s Thrush Special Concern STATUS V ulnerable Nova Scotia Catharus bicknelli Breeds in Cape Breton and nearby coastal islands with an estimated population of 400- 500 pairs. Winters in the Greater Antilles (islands in the Caribbean Sea). Population Range Habitat Found in high elevation spruce-fir forests in the Cape Breton Highlands and a few offshore islands. Typically in areas above 300 meters in stunted, dense forests that are wet, windy and cool. Y B S U B

N A D © Species Description Bicknell’s Thrush is a small sparrow-sized songbird (16-18 cm long). It has a buff coloured chest with dark spots, grey to white underparts, an olive- Y Y B B brown back and a chestnut- S S U U B B

N N

tinted tail. Its bill is slender A A D D © © and the lower bill is fleshy yellow coloured with black at

Y Look and listen for the Bicknell’s Thrush in Cape Breton Highlands B S

the tip. Males are slightly U B

National Park especially at Paquette Lake, Lake of Islands and French N larger than females but A D Mountain. Its songs and calls can be heard online at www.atl.ec.gc.ca/ © o t h e r w i s e s i m i l a r i n appearance. Note mostly yellow lower bill wildlife/bicknells_thrush/ Interesting Points Threats to Survival How You Can Help One of Canada’s rarest and least- Habitat loss and fragmentation Since 2002, Bird Studies Canada known songbirds. on breeding grounds from (BSC) has monitored the Bicknell’s It was considered a subspecies of forestry activities, spruce Thrush in Cape Breton through their the Gray-cheeked Thrush until budworm outbreaks, acid rain, High Elevation Landbird Program 1995. ski resort development, (HELP). Volunteer for this program by They are very sensitive birds, and recreational use, and contacting BSC at (506) 364-5047. For will abandon their nests even transmission tower and wind information on HELP visit: www.bsc- with low levels of disturbance. turbine construction. eoc.org/regional/acbithsurvey.html. Females may have up to four Global warming may alter its Contacts, Information, Sighting mates, all of which provide food cool, high altitude habitat. Reports & Stewardship Opportunities for the young. Its wintering ground is Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 threatened by deforestation, Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.hww.ca Similar Species charcoal production and Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 sugarcane operations. Stewardship: www.bsc-eoc.org The Swainson’s and Hermit Thrush are found in the same breeding habitat as the Bicknell’s Thrush, and the Veery also breeds in Cape Breton. These species are often identified by their differing vocalizations. Swainson’s Thrush: Hermit Thrush: Veery: Gray-cheeked Thrush: Buff coloured eye ring, brown Stronger chestnut-coloured tail, darker black spots Reddish back and tail, Very similar, larger with less yellow on tail. on the chest. faint spots on the chest. the lower bill. Uncommon. E I K C E L

Y M M M E B O O O K S O O O O S U T T T

O B W S S

S R F N N N N

B A A S A A A E U H H D H

S © © © © © © 22 23 Harlequin Duck Special Concern STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Histrionicus histrionicus

Winter along the Nova Scotia coastline. Only 3000 - 5000 individuals winter in eastern North America. Population Range Habitat Congregates in coastal marine areas near rocky shorelines or subtidal ledges. Found close to the shore in turbulent places where the surf breaks against the rocks and there are low levels of ice. Breeds in fast-flowing freshwater rivers N

R in New Brunswick, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nunavut, E T S

D Greenland, and Iceland. R A H C I R ©

Species Description The Harlequin Duck is small (33-54 cm) and looks dark coloured from

afar. Males are slate blue with chest- Y E T L E L W nut sides, and have white streaks on L O E R U C

N the neck and along the back. Females E A G G R E E M are brownish grey. Both sexes have a S © © A

D round white spot behind their eyes A N A C

and a white patch near the base of the T Harlequin Ducks are typically observed from November until April in N E

M turbulent areas along the coast. They are often seen in the Eastern Shore bill. They have relatively long tails. N O R I

Juveniles look similar to females, but V Islands Wildlife Management Area, Port L'Hebert, Chebucto Peninsula N E ©

have darker bellies. and along the Digby Neck. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Often return to the same Winter: oil/bilge contamination, boating activities, illegal and R U

wintering location every year. E

D incidental hunting, fisheries bycatch, aquaculture operations, and O Also known as “lords and R B human disturbance. E G

ladies” and “sea mice” R E Breeding grounds: hydro developments, forestry activities, resource S

because of their showy © extraction, and human disturbance. appearance and squeaky Female mouse-like call. The term Harlequin describes a character in Italian R U E

comedies who wears a black D O R B mask and a brightly coloured E G R

costume. E S Similar Species © Male How You Can Help Female and juvenile Harlequins may be confused with: Keep your distance: human Surf Scoter (photo) & Black Scoter: Long-tailed Duck: disturbance may cause Larger (43-60 cm); large bulbous bill; females Often in same habitat; similar size (38-58 cm); harlequins to avoid prime have a white spot on back of neck. lighter -coloured heads; males have long tail feeding areas. Hunters can feathers. familiarize themselves with the plumage of females and juveniles so they are not Y E mistaken for other species. L W O R C

Contact the Coast Guard N A G

(1-800-565-1633) if you E M

observe any coastal oil © Harlequin Duck survey N spills or bilge dumps. O S L I S W

W Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports N F

A S L U A © © Female Female Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.hww.ca In flight, Harlequins travel in tightly packed groups while other ducks have a more loose formation. In Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] the water they are typically close to the shore in tight groups. 24 25 Ipswich Sparrow Special Concern STATUS V ulnerable Nova Scotia Passerculus sandwichensis princeps Nests almost exclusively on Sable Island with an estimated population of 6000 individuals. Winters along Sable Island the coast from mainland Nova Scotia to the Population Range southeastern United States. Habitat Breeds on Sable Island, 150 km from mainland Nova Scotia, in heath dominated vegetation or in dense marram grass on coastal dunes/beaches. M

O Winters in outer dune beaches with grass cover and sheltered areas O T

S (valleys). N A H

females have pale grey A N A C

plumage with grayish-brown T N E M O upperparts, thin grey-brown M O N T O

S R I N Y breast streaks and whitish V A O N H R E

L I © © underparts. In the spring and M

T N summer, they have a yellow A R G Ipswich Sparrows are typically observed on Sable Island in the summer. © stripe near the front of their eye. Their tail is dusky and In the fall and winter, the yellow stripe above the eye Migrants are observed on mainland beaches during April and October, slightly notched. becomes very faint. and a few stay over the winter. Interesting Points Threats to Survival The Ipswich sparrow is Suitable breeding lighter in colour and larger areas on Sable Island than the savanna subspecies are limited and may be

N threatened by erosion.

as an adaptation of living in E R A

L Mortality during coastal dune habitat. C M

A migration. I

The two Savannah A © D

Sparrow subspecies are Habitat loss and A N A C

known to occasionally disturbance on T N E

wintering grounds. M interbreed. N O R I Only songbird known to V N E

nest in large numbers on © Sable Island Sable Island. M O O T

S How You Can Help N A H

Similar Species © Learn to recognize rare The pale grayish plumage of the Ipswich sparrow is one of the key ways to distinguish it from other birds and their songs sparrow species. It is found along the ocean shoreline and is not observed inland. and report sightings. E n c o u r a g e t h e Savannah Sparrow: Song Sparrow: conservation of Sable Savanna subspecies: smaller, darker No yellow on face; triangular “moustache”

Island and dune beach D N

coloured with darker, wider breast streaks. stripes; pale central crown stripe. A R

habitat along the B D O

Atlantic coast. O G

A I V I L

O O Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] T T

S S N N

A A Stewardship: Bird Studies Canada 1-888-448-2473, www.bsc-eoc.org H H

Nine known pairs nest along the coast in the Bay of Fundy. Winter in Central and South America. Population Range Habitat Found in an array of open habitats such as wetlands, sea coasts, and meadows. Foraging areas are diverse and include urban landscapes, but are typically associated with coastal habitats with an abundance of bird prey. In Nova Scotia they nest on the steep cliff ledges along the Bay of Fundy, but are known to nest in urban environments in other provinces. T R U O C

N O D R O G

a medium-sized raptor (36- K K U R R O E E C

D D L N 49 cm), with long pointed wings L E E O

D K K R R R A A (100 cm wingspan). It has a blackish O G M M

"moustache" (stripe below the eye) and a blue-grey back. The breast is whitish Peregrine Falcons are often observed in the summer soaring along shore- with brown bars on the abdomen and lines near the Bay of Fundy (look in August at Evangeline beach). They thighs. The underside of the wings are white are rarely observed during the winter. with black bars. Immature peregrines are darker with a brown back. Interesting Points Threats to Survival They are the fastest animal on the planet and have been clocked at Populations across speeds over 300 km/hr. North America almost They are excellent hunters that feed almost entirely on birds, usually catching them in mid-air! disappeared because of Following a 40 year absence, the first breeding pair returned to this pesticide use (especially province in 1995 (thanks to the efforts of a reintroduction program DDT). initiated in the 1980s). DDT was banned in the In 2000 approximately 500 pairs nested in Canada thanks to releases of 1970s but high levels of Similar Species captive-bred peregrines. this and other pesticides are still found in Merlin: Gyrfalcon: peregrine tissue. Smaller (24-30 cm); Larger (48-64 cm); broader wings; longer tail; Human disturbance.

light facial markings; less distinct facial features. Does not nest here, T R

Illegal harvest for U

heavily streaked breast and belly. but visits in the winter. O C

falconry. N O D R O G

known nesting locations. O C

N O

They are beautiful but D R O G need space. ©

Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports T T R R Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 U U O O C C

Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca N N O O D D R R Sighting Reports:1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] O O G G

29 Rusty Blackbird Special Concern STATUS Not Listed Nova Scotia Euphagus carolinus nigrans

Infrequently sighted throughout the province with an unknown population size. Winters in the east-central United States. Population Range Habitat In Canada, the nigrans subspecies occurs only in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Quebec. It breeds from April to August in coniferous-dominated

D E T

I wooded streams, swamps, and bogs. It is also found in wet forested areas near M I L

N beaver ponds. U

S K C U D

, Y R E T T A L S

T R A U T S

Species Description N O S R E T T T E R R P

The Rusty Blackbird is medium- A A Y W W R E E O T T T S S

sized (21-25 cm), with yellow eyes, a R Y Y E K K C C G E E pale yellow eye ring, and a narrow O B B R

Y B © ©

pointed bill. Males are glossy black , L

N Beaver pond

with a greenish tinge and females are F O

T N dark grey-brown. They have black E Rusty Blackbirds are typically observed near wet areas in coniferous- M N R legs and feet and a rounded tail. E dominated forests. They tend to be solitary, unlike other gregarious V O G blackbird species. © Interesting Points Threats to Survival The Canadian breeding population is thought to contain 70% of the The conversion of Rusty Blackbirds in the world! wetland breeding This species may have declined by 85% over the last 40 years. habitat to agricultural or There are similar declines in several other bird species (e.g. Olive-sided urban land. Flycatcher, Chimney Swift) with the same habitat and food requirements Loss of wintering habitat (insects). in the Mississippi Valley flood plain forests E

Similar Species (reduced by 80% over I K C E L

the last 150 years). E K O

Blackbird control O R B A

programs in the United E

Common Grackle: S

States. © Larger (28-34 cm); longer bill and tail; black Female plumage with greenish-purple iridescence to the head, neck and breast; tail is keeled How You Can Help (v-shaped). A n y i n f o r m a t i o n o n distribution and habitat will help in our understanding of this species. Report Brown-headed Cowbird: s i g h t i n g s a n d n e s t Smaller (17-22 cm); shorter bill and tail; dark eyes. Males: brown head; shiny black body with o b s e r v a t i o n s t o t h e green-blue iridescence. Females: solid brown-gray. Maritimes Breeding Bird Atlas (www.mba-aom.ca/) E and Maritimes Nest Record P O H

S c h e m e ( c o n t a c t E T E P [email protected]). © Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports

M M Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca O O O O T T

S S Info: www.cosewic.gc.ca N N A A H H Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] © Male Female © 30 31 Short-eared Owl Special Concern STATUS Not Listed Nova Scotia Asio flammeus Uncommonly found throughout the province in grasslands with sufficient populations of Meadow Voles. Winters in the southern USA and Mexico, and occasionally in Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Hunts and roosts in the summer in open grassy habitats such as coastal A D A

N dunes, marshland, abandoned pastures, and grassy fields. Typically nests in A C

N grasslands, dyked wet meadows, marshes, and coastal bogs. Roosts in the E M N

O winter in dense hedges and islands of coniferous forests adjacent to grassland R I V

N agricultural fields. E

, O S U T R A

N A I T S I R H C

A ©

D A N A C

Species Description Dark patch T N E M N

The Short-eared Owl is medium-sized O R I V

(34-43 cm), with yellowish-brown N E

, Y D E streaks on the breast and back. It has a N I N K N R E E K

large round head with small ear tufts, a D L W E E

K grey (or buffy-grey) facial disk and R R D A N M A

yellow eyes circled in black. In flight, a N A © ©

V I L characteristic dark patch is apparent on L U S

. Short-eared Owls are typically observed in open grassy habitats in the L the underside of the wing near the wrist . B summer and in dense hedges in the winter. ©

(85-103 cm wingspan). Interesting Points Threats to Survival Calls no place “home”- moves from location to location in search of food. Habitat loss and Their “short-ears” are actually feather tufts! Their actual ears are hidden fragmentation (wetland beneath their feathers on the side of their head. drainage, urban Nest on the ground (unlike many other owl species)- young owlets learn development, intensive how to walk and run before they learn how to fly. farming practices). Mainly active at dusk and dawn. Habitat alteration from the conversion of Similar Species agricultural grasslands (hay, alfalfa) to alternative crops (sod, short grass), and the removal of hedgerows. Nests are vulnerable to Northern Harrier (Marsh Hawk): predators and machinery. Larger (46-50 cm); occur in the same habitat with similar flight pattern; males have a white How You Can Help patch above the tail and a sharp, down-turned beak. Females are brown. Encourage farmers to harvest

G crops after the owls nesting N U O Y

season (after July 1st) to avoid S I R H

C destroying nests and harming © young. Farmers can use harvesting devices that cut the hay higher above the ground. Long-eared Owl: This action benefits other Similar size (35-40 cm); can be confused in birds such as Bobolinks. winter in roost habitats; in the summer found in field edges and spruce-fir forests; darker Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports plumage that is more heavily streaked. Contact: Environment Canada (506) 364-5044 or www.ec.gc.ca R N D Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca S N ©

Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] 32 33 Blanding’s Turtle Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Emydoidea blandingii An estimated 350 adults exist in and around Kejimkujik National Park, McGowan Lake, Pleasant River and the Tobeatic. Sightings reported through southwest Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Found in freshwater wetlands (still-water streams, marshes, swamps, bogs, and coves). Occurs in dark, slow-moving waters, with muddy bottoms and N

O dense aquatic vegetation, including sedge, sphagnum, sweetgale, cow-lily, T W E

N and pickerel weed. They need exposed, gravelly or sandy areas for nesting

A C I

R in June, and permanent wet areas for overwintering. E

Species Description The Blanding’s turtle has a L L L L I I H H R

high-domed, helmet shaped R E E V V A A C C and sized shell that is dark grey N N A A N (dry) to black with yellowish N N N E E R R B B flecks (wet). It has a long neck © and bright yellow chin and South facing nesting beach © Summer wetland habitat throat. Hatchlings are dark grey with a pale yellow throat, Blanding’s Turtles are found basking in the sun around wetlands in early and toonie-sized. Full-grown carapace (back): plastron (belly): April & May; along roadsides in June & July (when females are up laying adults are about 20-25 cm in dark grey; yellowish; big eggs) and August & September (when travelling to overwintering sites); length. yellowish flecks black blotches swimming in freshwater wetlands throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Interesting Points Threats to Survival L L I H R E V

Hatchlings can walk over 100 m per day Y A E Habitat loss and degradation C

L N W and may be able to survive freezing. A O threatens all life stages. N R N C E

R Juveniles do not mature until their mid N B A

Predators (racoons, small G E ©

20s, and individuals are believed to live M mammals, birds) eat eggs, longer than 80 years! © hatchlings and young They absorb oxygen through their skin juveniles. in winter, and can survive over three Road mortality (being run A D

months underwater! A

over by vehicles) N A L C I

Females often return to nest in same E K

N Collection for the pet trade R C A M P

place each year. , E I H F T F I E J M

Similar Species N © A C N

How You Can Help U D

Painted Turtle: Learn how to recognize © Smaller (10-15 cm); low-domed shell; red-orange

F Blanding’s turtles and report F O

markings on shell and face; all yellow/orange N R sightings. If you see turtles, E H C

plastron; white outline around each shell segment.

N observe and appreciate but do O D A

not disturb them. Drive D A © N A C carefully and keep your eyes S K R A

open for turtles on the road, P

Wood Turtle: , H T especially in June. Respect I Similar size (16-21 cm long); sculpted, bumpy shell; M S

them and their habitat! A

orange colouration around armpits and underside of C N R U N D

shell and throat. D

S © N

Snapping Turtle: Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities L L I

Much larger (up to 60 cm long); sculpted, bumpy H R Contact: Parks Canada (Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site) (902) 682-2770 E V A

shell, jagged at the back; spiky tail, and huge head; C Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca or www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca N A

brown-grey colour. N N Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] E R B Stewardship: Kejimkujik Area Stewardship Program, www.speciesatrisk.ca/stewardship

Occurs throughout southwest Nova Scotia, with known concentrations in Kejimkujik and on Molega Lake. Population Range

A D A N A C

K Habitat R A P

, S

E Found in freshwater wetlands, such as stillwater streams, marshes, swamps, V E E T

S bogs, lakeshores and coves. They are rarely found more than 30 m from the

E I M

A water’s edge, and are typically seen in areas with aquatic vegetation, J

© shallow pools, and amphibians. Species Description The Eastern Ribbonsnake is a long, slender, semi-aquatic snake (up to 70 cm). It is jet-black with three yellow stripes running from head to tail along its back and sides; it has a caramel brown shade on the lower sides, and a white tear-drop scale in front of each eye. It is a harmless snake, and it is not poisonous. N O N N I K

Distinguishing C Y M

A R L E M F

features: I I

N A N R E A

Vertical white bar in front J T

I stripes (on 3rd and 4th E N

C Eastern Ribbonsnakes are typically observed around wetlands in spring,

M scale row up from

E I

F and along tracks and roadsides near water in summer. They are also seen F the belly). E J swimming along water’s edge, or curled up under cover. © Interesting Points Threats to Survival

Females are ovoviviparous People often harm or kill (they give birth to live snakes intentionally. young) and are typically Vehicles run over snakes bigger than males.

N on roads, tracks, and O The Nova Scotia T W trails. E N

population is a subspecies A C

I Shoreline development R E of the Eastern destroys their habitat. © Y E

Ribbonsnake, and is L

Newborn ribbonsnake Our lack of knowledge W O R

known as the Northern C limits our ability to help N A

Ribbonsnake. G them. E L M

L I H

Individuals eat mostly © R E V

small fish and amphibians A C

A How You Can Help N N E R B Similar Species Learn about snakes and tell © your friends and family they are harmless. Reduce Maritime Garter Snake: vehicle mortality by

Bigger; diamond-shaped head; various N watching for snakes on O T R U

colours; checkered patterning. roads and trails. Keep L B L

I N H E R

Z domesticated pets from E A V H A

C disturbing/harming snakes. N ©

Note: A N

Work to prevent shoreline N E

There are five snake species that live in R B development/disturbance.

Nova Scotia (none are venomous): Smooth © Green Snake, Ring-necked Snake, Red- Searching for ribbonsnakes bellied Snake, Maritime Garter Snake and the Eastern Ribbonsnake. The garter looks Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities the most similar to the ribbonsnake, but Contact: Parks Canada (Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site) (902) 682-2770 A D

has many different colourations (photos A N Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca or www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca A C

to the right). S K Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] R A P Stewardship: Kejimkujik Area Stewardship Program, www.speciesatrisk.ca/stewardship

Found throughout the province, with concentrations in Guysborough and Annapolis Counties. Population Range Habitat Clear, moderately moving rivers and tributaries in forests or flood plains. Local plants include alders, chokecherry, hawthorn and mixed wood stands of deciduous and coniferous trees. Females lay their eggs in sandy bars along rivers and other gravel areas (driveways, roadsides, borrow pits) in June. R E F I S L U P

K R A M

The Wood Turtle has a bumpy, N N I I T T

D D I I

sculpted shell that is dark grey E E R R

to brown, with orange mark- © © ings when wet. The skin of the Wood Turtles are typically found basking in the sun by rivers and streams throat, tail, and limbs are in spring; along roadsides in June & July (when females are up laying orange-red. Hatchlings are light eggs) and August & September (when travelling to overwintering sites); brown and toonie-sized, and carapace (back): plastron (belly): swimming in waterways, or walking through nearby woods, in the spring, adults are about 16-21 cm long. dark grey; orange yellowish; small markings (wet) black blotches summer, and fall. Interesting Points Threats to Survival How You Can Help

For the first 25 years, age is Road mortality and collection Do not disturb turtles and leave

for the pet trade. them where you find them. Do not

determined by counting annuli R E F I S

(growth rings) on the plastron. L Habitat loss and degradation, support the wild animal pet trade U P

K from increasing development by having wild turtles as pets.

They eat slugs, insects, green R A M plants, grasses, mushrooms, along rivers, water course Create or maintain natural buffers and berries. © alteration, farm expansion, along watercourses. Keep your eyes They are the most terrestrial of and other industry open for turtles on the road and the freshwater turtles. practices. drive carefully. Refer to the Human disturbance from an Stewardship Plan for information Y E L

G increase in recreational on how to work in Wood Turtle N I T

I activities in river and riparian habitat (link below). E R Similar Species

Painted Turtle: Smaller (10-15 cm); low-domed shell; red-orange M U

markings on shell and face; all yellow/orange E S U M

plastron; white outline around each shell segment. S N

R E Y F E Blanding’s Turtle: I L C L G U N I P

Similar size (20-25 cm); smooth, high-domed shell; T

K L D I R I E A E N R bright yellow throat and chin; smile on face; yellow M

C M

flecks on carapace. I F F E J

Snapping Turtle: I Contact: NS DNR at (902) 679-6091, [email protected] H R E

Much larger (up to 60 cm long); sculpted, bumpy V Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca A C

shell, jagged at the back; spiky tail, huge head and N

A Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] N N

pronounced beak; brown-grey colour. E

R Stewardship Plan: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/species_recovery.htm B

© 38 39 Atlantic Whitefish Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Coregonus huntsmani Native population land-locked in the Petite Rivière watershed. Estimates suggest less than 1000 left in the wild. Believed to be extirpated from the Tusket River, Yarmouth County. Population Range Habitat

M They are typically anadromous (sea run) fish, which spawn in freshwater A H T

N then return to the ocean. However, in the Petite Rivière, Atlantic E B

. K

, Whitefish occur in three connected lakes above Hebb Dam. Therefore, O F D they are landlocked and unable to return to the ocean. They are found in © Species Description the deeper cool waters in these lakes. Dorsal fin Adipose fin Caudal fin The Atlantic Whitefish is a salmonid with an elongated body, a fleshy adipose fin, and a deeply forked caudal F A C B

fin (tail). It has a dark , L L A

green to dark blue D N O F A R Pectoral fins Pelvic fins Anal fin D back, slightly lighter W © E H sides and a silvery white T T A

Terminal mouth (faces forward at end of snout) M belly. It has dusky dorsal and caudal fins More than 90 large lateral line scales © and light pelvic and Upper and lower jaws fairly equal in length Atlantic Whitefish occur in Hebb, Millipsigate and Minamkeak Lakes. anal fins. Landlocked, No spots or upper body markings You can see them in captivity at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic in it is 20-25 cm long. Lunenburg or at the Mersey Biodiversity Facility in Milton. Interesting Points Threats to Survival How You Can Help The most primitive of all Hydroelectric dam Prevent the introduction of invasive North American construction prevents species - it is illegal to move fish from Whitefishes (oldest passage to the sea. one body of water to another. Fishing evolutionary link). Habitat acidification from Atlantic Whitefish is prohibited- Found nowhere else in acid rain and pollution. learn to distinguish the two whitefish the world! Competition from introduced species. Protect fish habitat on your Also known as the species (smallmouth bass, land by leaving a buffer of trees along Acadian, Sault or Round chain pickerel). the waters edge. Whitefish. Poor land use practices

F (agricultural, forestry and

According to old stories, A C B

, residential). Tusket River Atlantic L L A D

Whitefish were so plentiful N Poaching and recreational A R

they were taken by the W fishing. E H T T

truckload and used as A M

fertilizer or lobster bait. © F A A C F B

D ,

Atlantic Whitefish: S L N

A , D C

Terminal mouth (faces N N A A R L

B W

forward) and more than E E L

H N T O 90 lateral scales. T S A A M J

© DFO © © Similar Species Chain pickerel Atlantic Whitefish release Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Lake Whitefish: Contact: DFO Species at Risk 1-866-891-0771 and NS Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Common, fewer than 90 [email protected] lateral scales (on side from Info: www.sararegistry.gc.ca, www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, head to tail); subterminal Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] mouth (faces downwards). © NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT Stewardship: Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation (902) 624-9888 www.coastalaction.org OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION 40 41 Atlantic Salmon Endangered STATUS Not Listed Nova Scotia Salmo salar (Inner Bay of Fundy Population)

Fewer than 200 adults return to spawn in the rivers of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick that drain into the Minas Basin, Chignecto Bay and south to St. Martins. Population Range Habitat Found in freshwater rivers and streams that are clear, cool, and well- oxygenated, with gravel, cobble, or boulder bottoms. They spend their first two to three years in the riffles, runs and pools, after which they travel to the sea. After one year in the Bay of Fundy, most return to spawn in the fall in the same areas where they hatched. E T F T S E A C

, U T

Species Description O T A D

F F O O N I M

The Atlantic salmon is dark on the back and silvery on the lower sides and , M F O S T A belly. When spawning in fresh water both males and females become a © bronze-purple colour, usually with reddish spots on the head and body. © Young Atlantic salmon are called parr and have 8-11 pigmented bars along Atlantic Salmon are most abundant in fast moving, cool streams with each side alternating with a row of red spots. Smolts lose these markings, abundant food sources such as aquatic insects and small fish. If you become silvery and migrate to sea in the spring of their second year. catch one, let it go! Interesting Points Threats to Survival How You Can Help The name salar comes from the Latin salio Acid rain and pollution Learn to recognize salmon (parr which means “to leap” - the Atlantic salmon Overfishing especially), and if you catch one, set can leap as high as 3.4 m! Habitat loss and degradation it free! Join an eNGO such as the Over the last 20 years the Inner Bay of Fundy Lack of riparian buffers Atlantic Salmon Federation, or salmon population has declined by more than (natural vegetation along participate in the Adopt-a-Stream N O

I 95% - only half of the rivers of the Inner Bay waterways). Program (contacts below). Become T A R

E of Fundy still have salmon populations. Water passage obstruction, an advocate for clean water and D E F

N Inner Bay of Fundy salmon are genetically from culverts, dams, healthy habitats that will support O M L

A unique from other Atlantic salmon. aboiteaux, and lack of pools. many species. S

C I T N A L O T F A

Rainbow trout: A F Colour varies; black spots S N

on body (not coloured); © A D spots on tail in rows. C S N

, N N O O T S S P E M W A Brown trout: S Y

M D A E

Reddish colouring on the S W © © F S

adipose fin (just in front of U Stream bank erosion and water siltation Adopt-a-Stream volunteers rehabilitate a stream tail on top of body). © Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Speckled trout: Contact: DFO Species at Risk 1-866-891-0771 and NS Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, [email protected]

Bluish speckled markings on A F S N side; brownish back; white or Info: Atlantic Salmon Federation www.asf.ca red belly; white edges on the © Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] lower fins. Stewardship: Adopt-a-Stream Program - Nova Scotia Salmon Association, (902) 644-1276 www.novascotiasalmon.ns.ca 42 43 Boreal Felt Lichen Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Erioderma pedicellatum

Lichens are Known to occur in at least amazing nine locations along the organisms that eastern and southern are part fungus shores of Nova Scotia. Population Range and part algae or cyanobacteria. Habitat Forested balsam fir stands within 25 km of the coast, at elevations up to Because they 300 m above sea level. Found in cool, moist habitats, such as those near are small, Sphagnum moss wetlands. It generally occurs on the north-facing side of some of the mature and old growth tree trunks, which are located at the base of slopes identifying with northern (or northeastern) exposures. features are best viewed with a hand lens.

©ROB CAMERON N

Species Description O R E M A R N A I L

Boreal felt lichen is a foliose (leaf-like) cyanolichen, with distinctive up- K L E U H C M - turned lobes (edges) that reveal white undersides. Its thallus (vegetative C N M A

J Y D O leafy part) is green when moist or dark grey to brown when dry. The upper . R N T © surface has a matted or felt-like covering of fine whitish hairs, with © apothecia (disk-shaped fruiting bodies) mainly on lobe margins. The under surface is covered in whitish hairs. It typically is 2-5 cm in diameter but has Boreal Felt lichen is typically observed on fir trees in forested habitats with been observed up to 12 cm in diameter. a natural, low, open canopy. Interesting Points Threats to Survival

Indicators of local air quality - they are found only in areas with low Air pollution and acid levels of air pollutants. rain. Captures nitrogen from the air and recycles it back into the forest Clearcuts and tree ecosystem - beneficial because nitrogen is often a limiting nutrient. plantations.

In Sweden, this species occurred in only one area that was protected in Land development. N O R E

an effort to conserve it. The adjacent land was clear-cut and the Climate change and M A C

lichen disappeared, and is now extirpated from the country. This severe weather events. O R

shows how entire ecosystems are needed to Our lack of knowledge © Similar Species maintain biodiversity. about where it is They are the panda bear among the lichens! found. Note: How You Can Help Boreal Felt Lichen is almost always found with these two species, however, they are often found without it. Learn how to recognize the species and report Salted Shell Lichen Textured Lungwort sightings. If you locate (Coccocarpia palmicola): dark blue-grey; (Lobaria scrobiculata): pale grey-blue (dry) one, do not collect the lobes rounded (2-5 mm); apothecia rare. to rich blue-grey (wet); lobes 10-12 mm; no hairs. specimen - but please take a photograph and record the location. Be an advocate of sustainable L L I

forestry practices, and H R E V A

reduce your greenhouse C

N A

gas emissions at home and N N E R B

at work. © Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports

N Contact: Department of Environment and Labour (902) 424-2176 I N L O L R U E

M Info: www.sararegistry.gc.ca M C A M C

Y B Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] O O R R T

Occurs near Sugar-loaf Mountain and Margaree River in Cape Breton. Population Range Habitat Found in the exposed wood of red maple trees in old-growth hardwood forests. It is more rarely found growing on the bark of hardwood trees. A V L E S

E V E T S

powdery whitish to yellow brown substance covers E B N D

O O S R N

(“frosts”) the top of the lichen. The thallus (main N N I © © K C

body) is found within the tree, and is therefore not M

R E F visible. I Frosted Glass-Whiskers is typically observed in old-growth hardwood N N E J forests, growing in the heart-wood and sap-wood of red maple trees. © Interesting Points Threats to Survival This tiny cryptic stubble lichen is Forestry activities and land clearing reduces the old-growth stands on very rare or threatened over much which this species depends. of its global range. Declining numbers of maple trees, likely due to acid rain. Two of the three known locations Our lack of knowledge about where this species is located. of this species in Canada are in How You Can Help Nova Scotia. The entire known physical area of Anyone can learn about stubble lichens and how to recognize them - and coverage by this species in Canada report sightings! Be an advocate of sustainable forestry practices. Woodlot is less than 1 square meter. owners can maintain old growth forests on their properties. It is an indicator species for old- A V L E

growth forests. S

E V E T S

Similar Species © There are more than 45 stubble lichen species in Nova Scotia. They are distinguished under a microscope by comparing the spores and apothecia. Learn how to recognize stubble lichens and then look for this species on red maple scars in old-growth forests. L L L L I I H H R R E E V V A A C C

N N A A N N N N E E R R B B

E E V V E E Info: www.sararegistry.gc.ca T T S S

Presently found at eight sites throughout the province with an unknown population size. Population Range Habitat Occurs mainly in coastal spruce-fir forests that are foggy and cool. Also observed inland in humid old-growth forests. Found mainly on twigs and branches and less commonly on tree trunks. In Canada it is mainly observed on balsam fir, red spruce, and black spruce.

N E D Y A L C

. R

N E H P N E E T D S Y N I A © L L L C

U . R M

C N

Species Description M E

H Y P O E R T T

Ghost Antler is a chalky white to pale grey macrolichen with many fine S © branches. Apothecia (disk-shaped fruiting bodies) are extremely rare and © unknown in Nova Scotia populations. Soredia and isidia (vegetative Ghost Antler is typically observed on fir or spruce tree branches in areas propagules) are absent. Grows up to 12 cm in length and 4 cm in height. such as Cape Chignecto Provincial Park and Portuguese Cove. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Indicator of old growth forests. The loss of mature L L I

May be a valuable climate change H and old growth R E V A C indicator as it requires cool, forests. N A N

humid habitats. Some of the known N E R B N

The “ghost” part of its name I populations are L © L U

refers to its pale, whitish colour. M threatened by C M

O proposed housing R T

Similar Species © developments and forest harvesting. Ramalina, Usnea and Evernia: These lichen species are similar looking but all have a distinct greenish colour. How You Can Help Learn how to recognize this species and report sightings. Be an advocate of sustainable forestry N O R

E practices. Woodlot owners M A C

B can maintain old growth O R

S forests on their properties O T O

H and avoid removing the P

Ramalina Usnea Evernia Y trees and dead standing or E L W O

fallen trees are habitat for R C

Caribou Lichen: N a number of interesting A G E M Similar in appearance but occurs only on lichens. the forest floor; has rounded branches in © cross-section (flattened in Ghost Antler). Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports Contact: Department of Environment and Labour (902) 424-2176 N O R

To learn more, check out “Lichens of the E More Info: www.sararegistry.gc.ca M A C Maritimes” by Frances Anderson and Troy Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] B O R McMullin.

© 48 49 Monarch Butterfly Special Concern STATUS Not Listed Nova Scotia Danaus plexippus Occurs throughout Nova Scotia. The eastern Monarch population ranges from Alberta to Newfoundland and south to Mexico, where it winters. Population Range Habitat Found wherever wildflowers flourish, such as open fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The presence of milkweed is key as monarchs only lay their eggs on its leaves. Wildflowers such as goldenrods and asters are important nectar sources. Adults migrate to Mexico in the fall and form dense congregations on forested mountaintops. Y E L W O R C

N A G E M © A A D D A A N N A A C C

Species Description

S S K K R R A A P P

, , L L L L

Monarch butterflies are I I H H R R E E V bright orange with heavy V A A C C

N N Y A

black veins and wide black A E N N N N N G E E I R

borders containing two rows R W B B

V E © ©

of white spots (10 cm B wingspan). Larvae (cater- © pillars) are striped yellow, black, and white, and are 5 cm long. Its gold-green Monarchs are typically observed in July and August in the habitat chrysalis (cocoon) typically hangs from a milkweed leaf or branch. described above. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Known as the “storm king” because it is almost always most active just Unfavourable weather (cold, harsh before a storm. winters; hot, dry summers; storms Caterpillars eat milkweed, which makes them poisonous to birds. during migration). Thousands of individuals roost in the exact same trees every year along Intentional removal of milkweed, migration routes. which is known as a noxious weed. Increasing use of

No other known insect A D

herbicides/insecticides. S U undergoes an annual, two-

Loss of breeding and staging habitat © way, long distance, large- Pesticide application scale migration. in Canada and the USA. It is a mystery how Logging, human disturbance and Monarchs correctly predation at wintering grounds in navigate to their Mexico. overwintering grounds, How You Can Help Y E

since no migrants have N Learn to recognize this species and G I W

made the journey before.

V keep track of sightings (take photo- Y E E B L W

not use insecticides and herbicides on M Viceroy: Tiger Swallowtail: Slightly smaller; inner margin of black on Similar size; yellow with four black bands; your property. © the hind wings; mimics the monarch’s blue on hind wings, with distinct “tail”. N E colouration but is not poisonous. X D L R U E O I R R

P I

D A S N I A L

L Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca , www.monarchwatch.org W O

R Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] C K

E N M A A G Stewardship: Kejimkujik Area Stewardship Program www.speciesatrisk.ca/stewardship N E

. M P

In Canada it is only found in the Sydney River in Nova Scotia, and the Saint John River watershed in New Population Range M

O Brunswick. C . Y T I S R E

V Habitat W A R

D Found in large, fast flowing, alkaline rivers, with sand and gravel bottoms. O I B .

W In Sydney River, it also occurs in a lake with vegetated, wave-washed W W

, shorelines, and in a dammed reservoir. Water depths range from 0.5 - 6.0 m, U A E

D and it prefers sandy substrate. E N

N A H T E

Species Description T I H W

E I L

The Yellow Lampmussel is an oval bivalve mollusc that reaches lengths of L E K 110 mm, but is generally closer to 75 mm. It has a bright yellow to reddish- © brown tinge to the outer surface of its glossy shell, and iridescent white to pink on the inside. Several fine, radiating lines circle the long slope of the Yellow Lampmussels are found in the riverbed of the Sydney River, Cape outer shell. The soft living parts (mantle) are visible between the shell valves. Breton. Interesting Points Threats to Survival They are an integral part of the The population in the M O C .

Sydney River ecosystem, Y Sydney River is large T I S R

playing an important role in E and apparently stable, V W

nutrient cycling, and serving as A

R but since it is isolated D O a food source for other animals. I B and only found in a . W

The dark rings that form W small geographic area, W

around their shell are added U A it is extremely E D one per year, like trees. E N

vulnerable to pollution N A

They increase the clarity and H

T and habitat destruction E quality of the waters in which © at a local level. they live by filtering out algae Raw sewage and industrial waste and bacteria. How You Can Help Adults have a have unique Support habitat restoration projects, and modified "lure" that looks like a pollution reduction programs. Limit your little fish, which they dangle use of chemicals at home and at work, and out to attract potential fish do your best to keep our freshwaters H T hosts. When one comes nearby, I M S

healthy and clean. G

they spew out little parasitic U O D larvae that attach to the fish’s gills. © Similar Species E E T T I I H H W W

E E I I

Tidewater Mucket: L L L L E E N K K

Smaller, lighter yellow and more delicate. M © © R E D L A

N Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities

Note: H O J

Twelve mussel species occur in Atlantic Canada. © Contact: DFO Species at Risk 1-866-891-0771 This includes two other Lampmussel species Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca (Eastern and Delicate), but they do not occur in Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] the Sydney River. Tidewater Mucket Stewardship: Atlantic Coastal Action Program, www.acapcb.ns.ca 52 53 Eastern Mountain Avens Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Geum peckii

Found on Brier Island and in the East Ferry area of Digby Neck - the only locations in Canada! It has an estimated population of 3200 plants. Population Range Habitat Found in riparian areas along streams, in swamps, along lakeshores, in woodland forests and in old pastures. It is shade-tolerant and typically occurs in cool, moist habitats that are nutrient rich. It does best in moderate drainage conditions that are neither too wet nor dry. M U E S U M

A T I F T I O W C S S

E A V N O U J N

T T F F © © I I W W S S

E E

Species Description N N U U J J

Eastern Mountain Avens is a perennial plant with leathery, compound © © leaves. Each plant has one large, round leaf and several smaller ones that are Eastern Mountain Avens is typically found in bogs, and is associated with clustered around the base. One to five small, showy yellow flowers (1-3 cm species such as shrubby cinquefoil and deergrass. Look for its flowers from long) with five petals each grow along a flowering stalk that is 20-40 cm tall. June to September. Interesting Points Threats to Survival It is found in only ONE other place in the world! (New Hampshire, Habitat loss and degradation due USA). to the creation of agricultural The New Hampshire population occurs at high altitudes along streams drainage ditches (which provide and in mountainous habitat for nesting gulls and wet meadows. It is competing vegetation). found in bogs only in Gull populations enrich the Nova Scotia. nutrient content of the area and Its flowers act as solar encourage the invasion of weeds collectors and follow and shrubs. the movement of the Climate change and warming T T F F I I

sun across the sky. W W

S S ocean temperatures may alter the

E E N N U U M

J J foggy, cool habitat required by this

U E S © © species. U M

A I T O C

Similar Species S

How You Can Help A V O N Learn to recognize this species. Avoid There are five other Avens © M T F U driving OHVs in sensitive wetland I

species in Nova Scotia. They E S W S U

M E areas such as bogs. Study this species are typically found in shaded N A I U T J

lowland areas along streams O in school or as a research project. C © S

A and rivers, and not in open V Volunteer for organizations such as O N

the Nova Scotia Nature Trust and the I

bog habitat. Eastern Mountain Avens © K R E

Nature Conservancy of Canada. D L E

Reduce your greenhouse gas emissions R A M

Tall Buttercup: at home and at work. © The flowers of the Eastern Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities T F Mountain Avens resemble I W S Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 E

Tall Buttercup flowers, but T N F U I J

W Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, and www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/

buttercup leaves are deeply S

N Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] U

lobed, instead of rounded. J Tall Buttercup

Around 1000 plants are known to survive within six sites in Hants and Cumberland Counties. Population Range Habitat Found in moderately open forests with cool soils and a neutral pH. It is associated with rough country woodlands (areas with gypsum bedrock and sinkholes). Also occurs on outcrops, cliff tops, river banks, and moderate to steep slopes.

E I R R U C

T T O C S L

L I © H R E V

A L C

Species Description L N E A W N E N N

Ram’s Head Lady Slipper is a small (10-40 cm tall), herbaceous, perennial, E R G E B R R orchid. Its small white flowers are fuzzy, with purplish veins on top, and a © pinkish-purple lip below. Three purple-green sepals (leaf-like petals) droop © from the flower, and three to five lance-shaped leaves are scattered on Ram’s Head Lady Slipper has only been found in Hants and Cumberland the stem. Counties - it flowers in late May to early June Interesting Points Threats to Survival The genus Cypripedium, which is in Habitat loss and destruction, due to gypsum the orchid family, has 47 species - most mining, forestry, agriculture, cattle grazing, are rare and close to extinction in the housing developments, and other types of land wild. conversion. Competition with exotic species, especially sedge. Resembles a charging ram with its Collection by humans. head down, hence the common name. Disturbance from OHV traffic. Very long lived: matures 10 years after germination, and can survive up to 20!

Seeds require the presence of specific E I L L R E R

fungi in the soil in order to grow. U W C E

T N

T G O E C S R

Similar Species © © © BLUENOSE COASTAL ACTION FOUNDATION Pink Lady Slipper: Yellow Lady Slipper: Showy Lady Slipper: How You Can Help Larger, pale-pink flower; two large, Large, yellow flower; hairy, Royal appearance; pink, purple, and opposite leaves at the base of the usually two leaves per stalk. white flower; many leaves that are This flower and its habitat are protected by flower stalk. very hairy. law - like all species listed in this guide. Do not pick or remove plants for gardens. If you find a new location, or know of one under immediate development threats, be sure to contact NS DNR as soon as possible.

Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091

E S

L Info: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife, B L I A T

H A S R www.ontariowildflowers.com/main E D E

N V S A R T C A N

B Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or A N

L S A P A N

M A N [email protected] E O D S R H T B U

© © © 56 57 Rockrose Not listed STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Helianthemum canadense Self fertilizing flowers Found mainly in the Annapolis Valley, Kings County but also in Queens County, with an approximate number of 5000 plants left in the wild. Population Range Habitat Associated with dry sand plains and heath barrens, the borders of mixed woods, and ditches, especially in areas that have been lightly disturbed. Usually found in sunny spots with limited competition from woody species. Y K C U T N E K

F O

Y T E I S S A R B E A V I T A N D U

, S S T E N N A R L

A P L

L A E M D S O W T U E

Species Description © Rockrose (or Canada Frostweed) is a small (10-40 cm), finely hairy Rockrose is most commonly seen in Nova Scotia in sand barrens and perennial herb with lance-shaped leaves. Stems are reddish brown and ditches. Look in June and July for showy, yellow flowers that open on branched. Its yellow flowers are 2-4 cm wide with five petals. Each plant sunny days and drop their petals after only a few hours. Much smaller self produces one (or sometimes two) flowers, which grow at the end of the stem. fertilizing flowers (that do not open) appear on side shoots in August. Interesting Points Threats to Survival There are about 100 Rockrose Habitat loss and species in this family of perennial destruction: 97% of its herbs or small shrubs, but only H. sand barren habitat is

canadense is found in Nova Scotia. L gone due to agriculture, L E W

The name is from the Greek helios E

OHV traffic, housing N

(sun) and anthemon (flower). T and road development, U R

Used medicinally as an astringent sand quarries, and other © Heavy disturbance from road building and OHV use. and tonic. It has been used in the types of land conversion. past to treat scrofula, diarrhoea, Fire suppression and dysentery, and syphilis. L

L caribou extirpation E W E

N (both used to create

Similar Species T U habitat). R

© Shading from the Note: invasive Scotch Although there are many pine tree. other rockrose species, none are found in Nova Scotia How You Can Help Learn about the species and report sightings, but do not disturb the plant - Pinweed: tread lightly! Advocate Often found growing among Rockrose

sustainable land use L L I

plants in sand barren habitat. Its small H practices. Drive OHVs R E V

flowers and seed pods look similar to A C only on designated trails, N A

Rockrose’s small self fertilizing flowers. N

and not in sensitive sand N E R E S They are similar in size, both with wiry B

stems, however, Rockrose’s stem is more T A D

rough to the touch. T Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports N A L P

A Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 D S U Info: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/ © Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] 58 59 Eastern White Cedar Not Listed STATUS Vulnerable Nova Scotia Thuja occidentalis

Located in western Nova Scotia with an estimated population of 13,000- 15,000 individuals. Population Range Habitat Found in riparian areas along streams, in swamps, along lakeshores, in woodland forests and in old pastures. It is shade-tolerant and typically occurs in cool, moist habitats that are nutrient rich. It does best in moderate drainage conditions that are neither too wet nor dry. Y E L W O R C

R N A N G D

E S M N

The Eastern White Cedar is an evergreen tree that grows,on average, to L L I L M L

A heights of 10-20 meters with diameters of 30-60 cm. It has flattened A H L

E S S M O

branches with small scale-like leaves (1-2 mm). The reddish-brown bark A P R

© has characteristic narrow vertical lines that tend to peel. The small ovoid © (egg-shaped) cones are 1 cm long, occur in clusters, and are yellow-green when immature and brown when mature. Eastern White Cedar is typically observed in cool, moist shaded areas. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Plays an important role in Historic population Mi’kmaw smudging ceremonies. declines from land Valued wood product due to its clearing for farms M U

high decay resistance. E and urban areas. S U M Birds and mammals use it for Habitat alteration S N

Grows slowly but has a long A D S U lifespan (400+ years). practices such as Stunted cedars on the limestone clearcutting). © Unopened cones Browsing by deer

cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment N I M

A and rabbits may J

are 700-1600 years old! N E B

damage seedlings. Naturally resistant to insects E C N E and disease. R W

A How You Can Help L

Similar Species Cedar branches © Learn to recognize this Eastern Hemlock: s p e c i e s a n d r e p o r t Scaly brown to red-brown bark with wide grooves; short, sightings. Avoid cutting flattened, shiny green leaves (10-20 mm long); ovoid down cedars on your prop- cones (1.5-2.5 cm long), green to purple when immature erty. When managing and brown when mature; grows to heights of 30 m with woodlots containing trunk diameters of 60-90 cm. cedars, avoid clearcutting and use alternative L L

harvesting techniques. A H

S S O R

C Info: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/specieslist.htm

N N A A G G Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] E E M M

Currently known to occur in nine lakes in Nova Scotia. Has an estimated Canadian population of 250,000 individuals. Population Range Habitat Occurs in nutrient poor, spring-fed lakes 1.5-2.5 m below the lake surface. Found on lakes with gently sloping, well defined shorelines that are not double corm marshy. It grows in oozy sediment overlying sand or gravel substrates and typically forms dense mats. Occasionally found floating on the lake surface P O H S I B

T R A G P

O H © S I B

T R A G

A Species Description A K K E E I I R R A A M Prototype Quillwort is a perennial aquatic plant. Its straight, brittle leaves M © are swollen at the base and arise from a short, solid, two-lobed corm © (globular rootstock). Its 4-12 cm long leaves are dark green with a Prototype Quillwort is found on lake bottoms. It occurs with other aquatic chestnut-coloured base. species such as Eriocaulon aquaticum and Isoetes lacustris. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Discovered as a Habitat modifications such as road, new species in causeway, and cottage 1988! development, shoreline Other than the deforestation, water dams, Nova Scotia eutrophication, siltation, changes populations, in the in pH levels and competition from introduced exotic plants. world this species Direct damage from activities such is only known at as boating, fishing, raking three lakes in New swimming areas, snorkelling, the Brunswick and one installation of water intake pipes lake in Maine. and wildlife activities. This species is considered a living How You Can Help fossil with Leave a natural shoreline buffer, install “nothing else like and maintain your septic system, and it in the world” (D. avoid using pesticides and fertilizers. If Brunton). you think you have found a Quillwort P O

N plant washed ashore, carefully collect I H L S I P B A

and press the specimen and send to a T H C R

Other aquatic Isoetes species may be confused with this one, and are typically distinguished with Contacts, Information & Sighting Reports the use of a scanning electron microscope. Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 Prototype Quillwort differs from other Isoetes species by its very brittle leaves that often break Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca, www.cosewic.gc.ca when the tips are pushed downwards. The base of the leaves are chestnut-coloured and not white. Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] 62 63 Pink Coreopsis Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Coreopsis rosea

Found on the shorelines of seven lakes in Yarmouth County with an The remaining 11 species approximate population in this guide are part of of 6000 plants. Population Range a group of plants called Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora (ACPF). There are Habitat 90 ACPF species in Nova Occurs on gently sloping infertile shorelines that are typically sand, gravel, Scotia. In addition to peat, or cobblestone. It is usually found in areas exposed to natural the 11 species in this disturbance such as seasonally fluctuating water levels, wave action and/or guide, another 27 ACPF ice scour. This minimizes competition from more aggressive plants due to plants could be at risk infertile soil and harsh conditions. in this province. T N S N

R Pink Coreopsis is typically found on rocky or sandy shorelines, often with N

opposite, smooth leaves N D

S S

N other rare species such as Plymouth Gentian and Water-pennywort.

N that are 2-5 cm long and © 0.5-3 mm broad. © Look for its flowers between mid-July and mid-September. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Pink Coreopsis is at risk globally, which Cottage development and its associated activities, including shoreline highlights its conservation importance in this alteration (dock building, mowing, raking, infilling, OHV use), land province. clearing and road building. The 'flower' that you see is made up of many Nutrient, sediment, and pesticide runoff from cottages, forestry practices, and agricultural operations. little flowers, called florets, and the 'petals' are a part of these tiny modified flowers, called rays. How You Can Help Although Coreopsis got its name from having dark ‘bed-bug’ like seeds, the seed hooks look Recognize and be aware of ACPF species and their habitat. Reduce M

U shoreline disturbances (leave a natural vegetation buffer, do not drive E like ticks, hence ‘tickseed’. S U

M OHVs along shorelines). Obtain permits from NS DEL and your

S N municipality before altering the shoreline (infilling, installing docks).

Similar Species © Install and maintain septic systems and avoid using pesticides and Plymouth Gentian: Virginia Meadow-Beauty: fertilizers. Threatened ACPF species found on ACPF species found on peaty lake lakeshores; wider petals that are yellow margins and in bogs; large yellow near the center. stamens; four large petals. T N A R T

W E R D N A

R Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 C

R N N A D G

Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora E S M N

Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] © © Plymouth Gentian (left) Pink Coreopsis (right) Virginia Meadow-Beauty Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca 64 65 Thread-leaved Sundew Endangered STATUS Endangered Nova Scotia Drosera filiformis

Occurs in five bogs at the southwestern tip of Nova Scotia - the only place it exists in Canada! Population Range Habitat Found in the low peaty hollows of raised bogs, which are characterized by cone shaped mounds of earth interspersed with low peaty hollows. These bogs are acidic, low-nutrient wetlands that contain species such as mosses, shrubs, sedges and grasses. L L L L I I H H R R E E V V A A C C

N N A A N N N N E E R R B B

The Thread-leaved Sundew is a E E L L W W O O

carnivorous plant with long vertical R R C C

N N leaves (11 cm tall) that are covered A A G G E E M M with reddish-purple sticky glands. It has a long flowering stem (up to 22 © © M U

E Thread-leaved Sundew occurs in a type of wetland known as a bog. Look S cm), with 6-15 flowers that are R U N D M

S S for its flowers between mid-July and August. It is associated with Clumped

violet with yellow centers. The N N

flowers are 1 cm in diameter. © © Deer-Grass. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Has adapted to its nutrient- poor Activities that alter environment by becoming water flow and carnivorous! drainage in wetland It obtains extra nutrients by habitats such as peat digesting insects that become mining, cranberry trapped on the sticky liquid production, some found on its leaves. forestry practices,

The presence of this species L OHV use, road L I H

R building and infilling.

prohibited the development of a E V A C bog - the first and only time this N A R N N N

has happened in the province! D E

S R How You Can Help N B

© Similar Species © Trapped insects Seed pods Do not build roads, infill There are two other Sundew species in Nova or drive OHVs in wet- Scotia, both of which are common throughout lands or along wetland the province. margins, as these activities alter key wetland processes. If wetland Narrow-leaved Sundew: alteration is necessary Typically found in bogs; leaves are you are required to obtain club-shaped instead of long and

M provincial permits. For U

erect. E S L U more details contact your L I M

H S R N

help” on the ACPF page N E R B at www.speciesatrisk.ca Round-leaved Sundew: © Found in bogs, swamps, ditches Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities and lakeshores; round leaves that Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091

are wider than they are long. M U

E Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora/ S U M Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] S N

Occurs on Wilson’s Lake and Keji Lake in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site - only found on these two lakes thoughout Canada! Population Range P U

O Habitat R G

H C

R Sand or gravel lakeshores just above or below the waterline. It generally A E S

E grows in substrates that are acidic and nutrient poor, in areas subjected to R

S C I

T disturbances such as wind, ice scour and water fluctuations. Disturbances A M O

E such as these are necessary to reduce competing vegetation. G

D E I L P P A

plant that grows to a height of U O R G 10-30 cm. Petioles (leaf-stalks) H A C D R A A N

attach to the slender stem that E A S C E

S R

K creeps along the substrate. Each S R C A I T P A

A , D leaf is 1-3 cm wide. Flowering is S M A E O N V E A E C G E sporadic, but clusters of small T S D S K

E I S R M L E A U P white flowers can be observed on P M

E P , A S A J N

12 small flowers are found in © each cluster. Flower cluster lakeshores. Look for its flowers between July and September. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Plants are accidentally

Lakeshore ACPF species A D A

require fluctuating water trampled by canoeists and N A C

levels; high water levels hikers inside Kejimkujik K R A P

National Park. ,

reduce competition and S I W

Outside the park, the greatest E

low water levels stimulate L

Y E

threat is cottage development L

flowering. S E L The Tusket River Nature and its associated activities, Reserve on Wilson’s Lake including shoreline alteration, © A D

protects important habitat A land clearing and road N A C building.

for this species, as well as S K R A

other ACPF such as Pink P

, S E

Coreopsis and Plymouth V How You Can Help E E T S Gentian. S E

M Inside the park, respect all signage A J

disturbances (leave a natural veg- D A N

Pennywort : A etation buffer, do not drive OHVs C (Hydrocotyle americana) S K

Only other pennywort species in Nova Scotia; R

along shorelines). Obtain permits A P

, common throughout the province; more from NS DEL and your muni- N O S M R U E

leaves but less erect and robust. E

cipality before altering the D S N U A

shoreline (infilling, installing N S E N E

L L

systems and avoid using pesticides © and fertilizers. Water-pennywort sign Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Floating Heart (Nymphoides cordata): Found in similar habitat; heart shaped leaves Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 (notched near stem); stem not erect when out of Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora M

water (Water-pennywort has an erect stem). U

E Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] S U M

S Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca N

Found along the shorelines of 12 lakes in southwest Nova Scotia, especially in the Tusket River watershed. Population Range Habitat Occurs on gently sloping infertile shorelines that are typically sand, gravel, peat, or cobblestone. It is generally found in areas with high levels of natural disturbance (seasonally fluctuating water levels, wave action, ice scour), which washes nutrients from the soil and removes competing vegetation. T N S N

E E N N E an average of 1-3 flowers at E L L O O J J M

N S S N

N Plymouth Gentian is typically found on rocky or sandy shorelines. Look flowers are pink with yellow © centres, and have 9-11 petals © for its flowers between mid-July and mid-September. Learn to recognize that are 2-3 cm long. its basal rosette so you can locate this species when it is not in flower. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Crab spiders are Cottage development camouflaged by the and its associated colouration of Plymouth activities, land clearing and road Gentian flowers. They sit building.

motionless in open flowers N

Nutrient, sediment, O T T U

and wait for insect S and pesticide runoff E N E

pollinators to prey upon. from cottages, L O J

T N

rare, white flower. W and agricultural E R D

N operations. A Similar Species © How You Can Help Pink Coreopsis: Virginia Meadow-Beauty: Recognize and be aware Endangered ACPF species found in similar ACPF species found on peaty lake of ACPF species and habitat; has daisy-like narrow petals with margins and in bogs; large yellow their habitat. Reduce no yellow at the base. stamens; four large petals. shoreline disturbances (leave a natural vegetation buffer, do not drive OHVs along shorelines). Obtain all the necessary permits N

before altering the O T T U S shoreline. Install and E N E

maintain septic systems L O J

H Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities R E V A C

N Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 A R N N N D E

Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora R S B N

Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] © © Plymouth Gentian (left) Pink Coreopsis (right) Virginia Meadow-Beauty Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca 70 71 Golden Crest Threatened STATUS Threatened Nova Scotia Lophiola aurea

Found in three fens and along the shorelines of six lakes with an estimated population of 5000 plants. Population Range Habitat Occurs on gently sloping cobble lakeshores, fens, and bay bogs (bays of lakes that become filled with peat). It grows on substrates such as sand, peat and floating peat mats. R N D

S N

stalks that are covered in L L M E U W

E Golden Crest is found in wetlands and along lakeshores. Look for its E white woolly hairs. Its S N U

M H

T flowers from August to September. It occurs with other rare species, such S

leaves are grass-like and U N

© as Redroot. green with red at the base. © Interesting Points Threats to Survival Stands of Golden Crest on Cottage development and its Brier Island and Digby associated activities, including Neck have been locally shoreline alteration (dock building, mowing, raking, infilling, OHV extirpated. use), land clearing & road building. Flowers in late summer Water quality can be negatively and adds colour to the affected by nutrient, sediment and shoreline after most other pesticide runoff from cottages, flowers have stopped forestry activities and agricultural blooming. operations. When not in flower, it can Fens may be threatened by be distinguished from cranberry growing operations, other species in the spring OHV use and peat mining. by the presence of its dried How You Can Help R

fruiting stalks from the N D L

L Reduce shoreline disturbances (leave S E N

N a natural vegetation buffer, do not

H T

U drive OHVs along shorelines). Obtain R Similar Species

© permits from NS DEL and your Pearly Everlasting: municipality before altering the White woolly hairs on the stalk; white flowers with brownish centers. shoreline (infilling, installing docks). Install and maintain septic systems H T and avoid using pesticides and I M S

fertilizers. Do not build roads, infill or A C N U

drive OHVs in wetlands or along D

wetland margins. © Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 M M U U Info: www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca and www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife E E S S U U M M Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected]

S S N N

Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca © © 72 73 Redroot Threatened STATUS Threatened Nova Scotia Lachnanthes caroliana

Found along the shores of six lakes in Queens County, in southwestern Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Occurs on peat, sand, and gravel shorelines. It is most commonly found on southwest facing peat or gravel cobble beaches. It is often found growing in meadows of Twigrush (Cladium mariscoides).

Species Description E Y K

E E N T A T L O B L Redroot has long, narrow, vertically oriented R N A A H E C S leaves up to 20 cm tall. When flowering, a 20- © ©

40 cm pale green stalk arises from the base and M U E S has 10-30 light yellow flowers clustered at the U Look for Redroot flowers in August and September, but please note M

S N top. The top of the stem and flowers are flowers are infrequently produced. It is found with other rare species such covered in pale yellow hairs. © as Golden Crest. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Like many species of Cottage development ACPF, Redroot and its associated reproduces mainly by activities, including shoreline alteration vegetative means and not (dock building, mowing, by sexual reproduction raking, infilling, OHV

(seeds). E use), land clearing & P O H The name Redroot refers road building. R T E N T S E N P

Nutrient, sediment and to its slender, blood red © rhizomes (underground Redroot flowers © pesticide runoff from stems). cottages, forestry Its latin name is from the practices, and agricultural operations. Greek lachne and anthos, meaning “woolly-flower”. How You Can Help Y E L W O

R Reduce shoreline disturb- C

N A

G ances (leave a natural vege- E M tation buffer, do not drive

Similar Species © OHVs along shorelines). Obtain permits from NS DEL and your municipality before L L I altering the shoreline H R E

Blue Flag Iris: V (infilling, dock building). A C

When small and not in flower, A Install and maintain septic N N E

leaves of the Blue Flag Iris could be R systems and avoid using B

confused with Redroot leaves. The © pesticides and fertilizers. Blue Flag Iris reaches heights of Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities 50-80 cm and produces large M U

purple/blue flowers. E Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 S U M

S Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora N

Occurs on the shorelines of five lakes in Nova Scotia. It has an estimated population of Spike 3000-4000 plants. Population Range

tubercle Habitat Found on sandy or stony lakeshores and gravel bars, on the fringes of peat layers, and on the edges of peaty wetlands bordering lakes. It also occurs on floating vegetative mats. L L I H R E V A T C

T N O A C S N

N D

E achene Flower E R R B F

H D T E

Tubercled Spike-rush has stiffly erect flattened stems that grow in dense U R F R

clumps and reach a height of 10-40 cm. A distinct oval spike is present at © © the top of each stem and is composed of numerous tiny flowers, which develop into dry one-seeded fruits (achenes). The achene has an unusually Tubercled Spike-rush is typically found on lakeshores and peat rich areas large knob-like tubercle growing on top of it. that receive full sunlight. Look for its flowers in August. Interesting Points Threats to Survival ACPF are able to survive Cottage development and in harsh environmental its associated activities, conditions (flooding, ice including shoreline alteration (dock building, scouring), that other mowing, raking, infilling, plant species find difficult OHV use), land clearing to tolerate. & road building. Tubercles are often Nutrient, sediment and present because of pesticide runoff from symbiotic (mutually cottages, forestry activities, beneficial) relationships and agricultural operations. between the plant and

micro-organisms. L L

E How You Can Help W E N

T Recognize and be aware of U R Similar Species ACPF species and their © habitat. Reduce shoreline disturbances (leave a natural There are at least 12 other spikerush vegetation buffer, do not drive species in Nova Scotia. They are OHVs along shorelines). typically distinguished by comparison of Obtain permits from NS DEL the fully mature achene, which requires and your municipality before a hand lens for viewing. altering the shoreline (dock building). Install and maintain T N S septic systems and avoiding N

M pesticide and fertilizer use. E

stems that arise from the same base. U S E U S M U

The tubercle is very large when S

M Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities

N S

compared to other species, and is the © main distinguishing feature. © Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora Eleocharis acicularis Eleocharis parvula Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca 76 77 Eastern Lilaeopsis Special Concern STATUS Vulnerable Nova Scotia Lilaeopsis chinensis

Occurs in five estuaries with an estimated population of at least 200,000 flowering stalks. Population Range Habitat Typically occurs on flat or gentle muddy slopes in the intertidal zone of river estuaries that are protected from the open ocean. During the daily tide cycles the plants range from being submerged under 2 m of water to being completely exposed. R N D

S N

at the tips and originate from a S S N N

muddy surface. Clusters of 5-8 small, M U

E Eastern Lilaeopsis is found in the brackish waters of estuaries and is S white, five petal flowers grow at the U M frequently associated with Saltwater Cordgrass. Look for its flowers S N top of stalks up to 8 cm long.

mistakenly thought to I M M E

have originated in L F

N E

China. H P E T S The species is rare because it exists at the © northern limit of its Threats to Survival range, not because of Habitat loss and human activity. degradation from First discovered in Nova shoreline development. Scotia by the renowned Infilling of estuaries. Harvard University Road building. botanist Merritt Fernald in 1920. How You Can Help R N D

S O b t a i n a p p r o p r i a t e N

Similar Species © provincial permits before infilling or altering salt Eastern Lilaeopsis can be marshes. For more inform- distinguished from other mud- ation contact your NS DNR dwelling semi-aquatic plants, regional biologist and view such as Mudwort (Limosella “How you can Help” at

), by its blunt-ended R

australis N

www.speciesatrisk.ca/ D

leaves and tendency to occur in S coastalplainflora N large patches. © Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities

Eastern Lilaeopsis does not form Y E

N Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 A

rosettes; its leaves attach to the L B

N Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora A

rhizomatous stem individually. E S Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] © Mudwort Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca 78 79 Long’s Bulrush Special Concern STATUS Vulnerable Nova Scotia Scirpus longii Occurs in wetlands adjacent to five lakes and in two bogs in southwestern Nova Scotia. It has an estimated population of at least 80 colonial clusters. Population Range Habitat Found in stillwater meadows, inland fens, bay bogs, barrier bogs and peat lakeshores. It generally occurs in the most waterlogged regions of these habitats, where competition from shrubs is low. It is typically submerged in water from November until April. L L I H R E V A C

N A N N E R B

9 N N 9 A A 1 ( G G clusters. It has tough, serrated leaves E E N M M O

wide. In the fall its leaves turn yellow J

D Long’s Bulrush is found in wetlands. Flowering is rare and identification is N A

and die back to the base. By April new L

L mainly through features of the leaves and circular growth. In the unlikely I H yellowish/green leaves begin to grow. event that flowering occurs, look for flowers between June and early July. © Interesting Points Threats to Survival This species is Activities that alter wetland globally imperilled. water levels, flow, and In Nova Scotia, the drainage (including road construction, land largest circular development and clusters of Long’s agricultural practices). Bulrush are 5-10

OHV damage can create an L L I H

meters in diameter opening that allows other R E V A C and 150-400 years vegetation to invade the N A N T circular cluster. N N E old - older than S R N

many trees! © Its age can be the genetic diversity of this OHV damage along trail edges species, because flowering accurately estimated typically only occurs after by counting the disturbances such as fire. annual bulge (summer) and How You Can Help thinning (winter) of Do not build roads, infill or the rhizome drive OHVs in wetlands or (underground along wetland margins, as these stem). activities alter key wetland processes. If wetland alteration Y E

L is necessary you must obtain W L O L R provincial permits. For more I C

N K A details contact your NS DNR C I G E N

Similar Species regional biologist © © Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities Fourteen bulrush species occur in Nova Scotia. Other bulrush species, such as Scirpus cyperinus, form circular clusters. However, Long’s Bulrush is much larger in diameter, with larger rhizomes (carrot Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 sized width); the middle of the circular cluster is empty and the leaves are only produced at the end of Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora the stems. Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca 80 81 New Jersey Rush Special Concern STATUS Vulnerable Nova Scotia Juncus caesariensis

Occurs in 26 bogs and fens in Cape Breton, with an estimated population of 5,000-10,000 plants. Population Range Habitat Found in open habitats along the edges of bogs and fens and in boggy areas of coniferous forests. Prefers open, unshaded areas. R N D

S N

New Jersey Rush is a perennial herb with Y E L W

elongated, cylindrical leaves that reach O L R L L C L

E E N

heights of 40-70 cm. Inconspicuous green W W A E E G N N E

S N

R New Jersey Rush typically occurs in wetlands such as bogs and fens. Look leaves are rough to the touch.

© for its flowers in July and August. Interesting Points Threats to Survival Located in Cape Activities that alter water Breton - the flow and drainage in wetland habitats (infilling, distribution of most road building and forestry ACPF species is practices such as southwestern Nova clearcutting without buffer Scotia. zones). L

Can persist in Closures in canopy due to L E W

natural succession reduces E

unsatisfactory living N

H T

open areas and removes U

conditions (shaded R

suitable habitat. © areas) for a period of OHV damage time in a vegetative How You Can Help form and resume growth when the Do not build roads, infill or L

L drive OHVs in wetlands or E

canopy is reopened. W E along wetland margins as these N

H T

U activities alter key wetland R

Similar Species © p r o c e s s e s . I f w e t l a n d alteration is necessary you must obtain provincial permits. For more details contact your NS DNR Note: regional biologist and view There are over 25 Rush species found in Nova Scotia. “How can you help” at R N D www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastal S N

Canada Rush (Juncus canadensis): plainflora/ © Common throughout the province and very similar Contacts, Information, Sighting Reports & Stewardship Opportunities to the New Jersey Rush. Canada Rush has smooth M U E leaves and stems and more dense flowers and S Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 Canada Rush U M

fruiting clusters. N Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora

Located along the shores of six lakes in southwestern Nova Scotia. Population Range Habitat Occurs in open areas higher up on the shoreline in the shrub zone. Granite boulders are often present. It has also been observed along streams and up

Y to ten meters inland in shaded forests. E L W O R C

N A G E M

Sweet Pepperbush is a woody shrub that can grow to a height of 2 m, and is typically found in dense L L I H thickets. It has small, white Y R E L E V W A O flowers with five petals that C

R N C

A N N

are clustered together along A N G E Y E R E M B L a central axis. Each petal is M W U © © O E R S about 8 mm in length. It has C

U N M

A S

G Sweet Pepperbush is typically found in the shrub zone along lake N

shiny, alternate, serrated E

© shorelines. Look for its flowers between mid-August and mid-October. leaves 7-15 cm long. © Interesting Points Occurrence in Nova Scotia may be linked with fire disturbance. Its name is derived from its sweet Y Y E E L fragrant flowers and L W W O O R R C C

peppercorn-like N N A A G G E fruit. E M M

Y Threats to Survival E as an ornamental L W O

R Physical alteration of the shoreline and shrub zone (land clearing for C shrub. N

A development, infilling, substrate removal, OHV use, and some G E M Similar Species forestry activities). © How You Can Help Meadow Sweet: Canada Holly or Winterberry: Long narrow leaves; white Leaves similar; single white flowers; Cottage owners, developers and flowers with wide petals. red fruit. forest harvesters should leave natural vegetation as a shoreline buffer. Follow any municipal L L I standards for building away from H R E V

A the shoreline. For more details C

A view “How you can help” at N N E

R www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplain B

R Contact: NS DNR (902) 679-6091 E V A C M

U Info: www.speciesatrisk.ca/coastalplainflora N E A S N U N

M Sighting Reports: 1-866-727-3447 or [email protected] E

S R N B

Stewardship: Nova Scotia Nature Trust, www.nsnt.ca © © 84 The ocean is vast and mysterious but at the same time extremely vulnerable. Although some see it as an 85 infinite, indestructible resource, human activities endanger its habitats, processes, and diversity of life. Marine Species at Risk Everyone's actions, however small individually, can have a powerful collective effect ... you can help.

There are many amazing marine species at risk in coastal and offshore waters www.msc.org), encourage the use of fishing gear that reduces bycatch around Nova Scotia. These species are often forgotten because few people are (www.smartgear.org), and reduce marine debris by limiting plastic use and fortunate enough to see them. However, they are in deep trouble and require disposing of your garbage properly. To learn more about these species visit: our help. Be an advocate of healthy oceans: purchase www.cosewic.gc.ca Endangered sustainably caught seafood (www.seachoice.ca and www.speciesatrisk.gc.ca. Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): Large sea turtle (up to 2 m long!) with ridged leathery skin. Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus): Feeds on jellyfish in Atlantic waters from June-November. Largest animal known to live on earth, with body lengths Estimated to decline by over 70% in the last 15 years. In up to 33 m! Whaling historically reduced this species to Canada, threats include fishing gear entanglement, and low levels. Threatened by vessel collisions, close

ingestion of marine debris. (visit www.seaturtle.ca). encounters with whale watching boats, entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, and climate change. O F D

Porbeagle Shark : : (Lamna nasus) S E G

North Atlantic Right Whale Large oceanic shark (up to 3 m in length) that has A M I (Eubalaena glacialis): declined by 90% since the 1960s. This population has crashed twice because of fishing pressure. Declining

Large whale, up to 16 m long, with no O F D dorsal fin. About 400 individuals remain in numbers due to direct fishing (longline), and ©

the Western Atlantic population and this S bycatch in the swordfish and tuna longline fisheries. E G

number is declining. Mortality occurs from vessel A M I White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias): collisions, entanglements in fishing gear, declining Very large, highly migratory reproductive rates, and increasing amounts of shark species that is rare ocean noise from human activities. in Canadian waters. Has Northern Bottlenose Whale declined by at least 80% in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. Threats (Hyperoodon ampullatus): A 6-9 m long beaked whale found in deep, cold water. About 260 include bycatch from pelagic longline fishing for individuals are found in “the Gully”, a Marine Protected Area, at species such as tuna and swordfish, sport fishing, the edge of the Scotian shelf. Threatened and the (illegal) international trade of shark parts. by acoustic noise, chemical pollution, Winter Skate (Leucoraja ocellata): vessel collisions, fishing gear Flattened disc-shaped marine species with a long tail (50- 75 cm long). The entanglement, marine debris, and Southern Gulf population has declined by 98%. Threats include direct fishing and nearby oil and gas activities. bycatch (unintentional capture in fishing gear) in groundfish fisheries. Threatened Special Concern

Cusk (Brosme Brosme): Atlantic Wolffish (Anarhichas lupus): Slow-growing, solitary, bottom-dwelling fish. Declined Large, solitary, slow-growing, bottom-dwelling predatory fish. by over 95% since the 1970s. Threats include Catch rates have declined by 90% since the late 1970s, due to direct fishing and bycatch in longline overfishing until the mid- 1990s and habitat destruction from fishing for halibut, cod, haddock and pollock. fishing gear like bottom trawlers and dredgers. © DFO

Northern Wolffish (Anarhichas denticulatus): Large marine fish with large conical teeth. Lives on the ocean Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena): floor at depths up to 900 m! Has declined by over 98% Small marine mammal (up to 1.7 m), sometimes found in since the late 1970s. Caught and discarded as bays and harbours during the summer. Threats bycatch in fishing gear like bottom trawlers. include fishing gear entanglements, acoustic harassment devices used Clam and scallop dredgers, and bottom © DFO trawlers destroy nesting and spawning habitat. in salmon aquaculture, and habitat degradation (from oil © DFO and gas exploration). Spotted Wolffish (Anarhichas minor): Large, bottom-dwelling predatory fish. Has declined by over 95% since the 1970s, due to the same threats that Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua): face the Northern Wolffish (bycatch Medium sized marine fish. Stocks greatly declined due to overfishing. Threats and habitat destruction). © DFO include direct fishing, bycatch, predation, natural and human-caused changes to the marine Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) Bay of Fundy ecosystem, and habitat destruction due to bottom trawling. population: Marine fish that spawns in freshwater rivers.Threatened by overfishing, pollution (PCBs, American Eel (Anguilla rostrata): pesticides, heavy metals), alteration of spawning Long, skinny fish with a continuous dorsal fin. habitat (dams), bycatch and illegal fishing. The St. © US FWS Found in coastal estuaries, bays, and inland rivers. Lawrence Estuary population has been extirpated. Threatened by coastal water pollution, stocking, and barriers like dams that prevent Short-finned Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus): upstream movement. ©ELLEN EDMONDSUN Large, highly migratory shark (up to 4 m), with a pointed Blue Shark (Prionace glauca): snout. The Northwest Atlantic Long, slender, highly migratory shark. Greatest population has declined up to 50% © DFO threat is bycatch in pelagic longline fisheries. in the past 15-30 years, mostly because of It is estimated that tens of thousands of tons of blue sharks are © DFO bycatch in pelagic longline fishing vessels. caught and discarded in the North Atlantic Ocean alone. 86 87 Although extinction is a natural process and has occurred on earth since life began, today Extirpated & Extinct Species species are disappearing at an unprecedented rate. Humans are the main cause of this mass extinction, but we can also be the cure … you can make a difference.

A species is considered to be extirpated from Nova Scotia when it is no longer found in the province, but still Extinct survives elsewhere in the world. A species is extinct Sea Mink (Mustela macrodon): when it is no longer found anywhere on the planet. Only recognized as a unique species after it was already extinct (~1894). It likely disappeared due to over-harvesting for the fur trade. At least four species are listed by law as “extirpated from Nova Scotia”, but many more were never listed or were reintroduced. At least five species that used to live in our province no longer survive anywhere on earth. They are Labrador Duck (Camptorynchus labradorius): gone forever. This is why we have to work together, to prevent this from Very limited breeding range in Labrodor - only happening to the species listed in this guide. These are the several confirmed sightings from Nova Scotia. Last Extirpated short stories of those who were lost. living individual was seen in New York in 1878.

Eastern Wolf (Canis lupis): Passenger Pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius): It is thought that very few wolves ever lived in the Was once very common in North America; province. Bounties were offered in the late 1700s and flocks of millions of birds were known to wolves were extirpated from Nova Scotia in the 1800s. block out the sun. Market hunting reduced numbers greatly, and they disappeared from Nova Scotia in 1850, and from the world in 1914. Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus): Prior to European settlement, thousands of caribou roamed barrens and woodlands in Nova Scotia. Due to Great Auk (Pinguinus impennis): over-hunting, habitat loss, climate change, and The largest and only flightless member of the auk family. competition with deer, the species was extirpated from They nested on coastal islands and were hunted for Nova Scotia in the early 1900s. feathers used in bedding, as well as for food. The species disappeared from Earth in 1844. Atlantic Walrus (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus): Walrus were known to breed on Sable Island, but were hunted for their oil, and disappeared in the late 1800s. Eelgrass Limpet (Lottia alveus alveus): Lived in blades of eelgrass, and was the first maritime Grey Whale (Eschirichtius robustus): invertebrate known to have gone extinct These giants were historically found along the continental (~1929). Its disappearance affected the shelf of the North Atlantic, but have been extirpated from marine ecosystem, hurting migratory the Atlantic ocean since the 1800s. duck populations and scallop fisheries. Notes Acronyms ACPF Atlantic Coastal Plain Flora DFO Department of Fisheries and Oceans eNGO Environmental Non-Governmental Organization MTRI Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute NS DEL Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Labour NS DNR Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources NSNT Nova Scotia Nature Trust OHV Off-highway Vehicle SAR Species at Risk UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific, & Cultural Organization © JM, 2007 Sketches

88 89

Collaboration with many groups and individuals was required to create this field guide. Thanks kindly to the following organizations for their help in the creative process:

Parks Canada, NS Department of Natural Resources, Environment Canada - Canadian Wildlife Service, NS Department of Environment and Labour - Protected Areas Branch, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, Acadia and Dalhousie Universities, Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, Friends of Keji, Brennan Caverhill and Megan Crowley Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Association, are Species at Risk Stewardship Biologists for Kejimkujik National Park Nova Scotia Nature Trust, Bird Studies Canada, and National Historic Site of Canada. Atlantic Salmon Federation, NS Museum of Natural History, Nova Forest Alliance, Bluenose Coastal Action Foundation, and the Brennan learned about Conservation Biology at Acadia, where he worked with Tom Herman Blomidon, South Shore and Annapolis Field Naturalist Societies. and Nova Scotia’s Blanding’s turtles. Megan studied Wildlife Biology at Guelph, and songbirds L'sitkuk - Bear River First Nations at Dalhousie’s School for Resource and Environmental Studies. A special thanks to the talented Jim Todd for his precise and professional It is their job to learn about species at risk in Nova Scotia, share what they learn graphic design work. Also, kudos to the many knowledgeable individuals with people, and engage individuals, families, and communities in the who tested the draft field guide during summer 2007 and provided conservation of these species and the habitat in which they live. invaluable feedback and guidance. And thanks especially to Stephen, for They love Nova Scotia and call this place home. being a super supervisor and for giving two young biologists the opportunity and freedom to run with a nifty idea and make it happen.

Species at Risk in Nova Scotia There are more than 40 species at risk in Nova Scotia, including mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, lichens, insects, molluscs, and plants. Many dangers threaten these species, and humans are often the cause…but we can also be the cure. Our ability to help, however, is hindered by our lack of knowledge, specifically regarding where these creatures live and the threats they face. Many different organizations are working together, including federal and provincial governments, eNGOs, universities, naturalist groups, and others…but they can not do it alone. They need your help. By learning about the species in this guide, reporting sightings, and becoming a volunteer, you can help protect Nova Scotia's natural history, and the biodiversity that shares this landscape, for generations to come. Welcome to the team!

Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute

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