49202 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 153 / Tuesday, August 9, 2011 / Proposed Rules

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lists of Endangered and Threatened Janine Van Norman, Chief, Branch of Wildlife and Plants. Fish and Wildlife Service Foreign Species, Endangered Species Prior to issuing a final rule on this Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, proposed action, we will take into 50 CFR Part 17 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Room 420, consideration all comments and any [Docket No. FWS–R9–ES–2010–0099; MO Arlington, VA 22203; telephone 703– additional information we receive. Such 92210–0–0010 B6] 358–2171. If you use a information may lead to a final rule that telecommunications device for the deaf differs from this proposal. All comments RIN 1018–AX50 (TDD), call the Federal Information and recommendations, including names Endangered and Threatened Wildlife Relay Service (FIRS) at 800–877–8339. and addresses of commenters, will and Plants; Four Foreign SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION become part of the administrative record. Species Background Previous Federal Actions AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Section 4(b)(3)(B) of the ESA (16 Interior. U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires that, for Petition History ACTION: Proposed rule; 12-month any petition to revise the Federal Lists On January 31, 2008, the Service of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife finding. received a petition dated January 29, and Plants that contains substantial 2008, from Friends of , as SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and scientific or commercial information represented by the Environmental Law Wildlife Service (Service), propose to that listing the species may be Clinic, University of Denver, Sturm list as endangered the Philippine warranted, we make a finding within 12 College of Law, requesting we list 14 cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia) and months of the date of receipt of the parrot species under the ESA. The the yellow-crested cockatoo (C. petition (‘‘12-month finding’’). In this petition clearly identified itself as a sulphurea), and to list as threatened the finding, we determine whether the petition and included the requisite (C. alba), under the petitioned action is: (a) Not warranted, information required in the Code of Endangered Species Act of 1973, as (b) warranted, or (c) warranted, but amended (ESA). We are taking this immediate proposal of a regulation Federal Regulations (50 CFR 424.14(a)). action in response to a petition to list implementing the petitioned action is On July 14, 2009 (74 FR 33957), we the following four parrot species: precluded by other pending proposals to published a 90-day finding in which we Crimson (Prosopeia determine whether species are determined that the petition presented splendens), Philippine cockatoo endangered or threatened, and substantial scientific and commercial (Cacatua haematuropygia), white expeditious progress is being made to information to indicate that listing may cockatoo (C. alba), and yellow-crested add or remove qualified species from be warranted for 12 of the 14 parrot cockatoo (C. sulphurea) as endangered the Federal Lists of Endangered and species. In our 90-day finding on this or threatened under the ESA. This Threatened Wildlife and Plants. Section petition, we announced the initiation of document, which also serves as the 4(b)(3)(C) of the ESA requires that we a status review to list as endangered or completion of the status review and as treat a petition for which the requested threatened under the ESA the following the 12-month finding on the petition, action is found to be warranted but 12 parrot species: Blue-headed macaw announces our finding that listing is not precluded as though resubmitted on the (Primolius couloni), crimson shining warranted for the crimson shining date of such finding, that is, requiring a parrot (Prosopeia splendens), great parrot. We also propose a special rule subsequent finding to be made within green macaw (Ara ambiguus), grey- for the white cockatoo in conjunction 12 months. We must publish these 12- cheeked parakeet (Brotogeris with our proposed listing as threatened month findings in the Federal Register. pyrrhoptera), hyacinth macaw for this species. We seek information If the listing of a species is found to (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), military from the public on the proposed listing, be warranted but precluded by higher- macaw (Ara militaris), Philippine proposed special rule, and status review priority listing actions, then the petition cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), for these species. to list that species is treated as if it is red-crowned parrot (Amazona DATES: We will consider comments and a petition that is resubmitted on the date viridigenalis), scarlet macaw (Ara information received or postmarked on of the finding and is, therefore, subject macao), white cockatoo (Cacatua alba), or before October 11, 2011. to a new 12-month finding within one yellow-billed parrot (Amazona collaria), ADDRESSES: You may submit comments year. The Service publishes an annual and yellow-crested cockatoo (Cacatua by one of the following methods: notice of resubmitted petition findings sulphurea). We initiated the status • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http:// (annual notice) for all foreign species for review to determine if listing each of the www.regulations.gov. Follow the which listings were previously found to 12 species is warranted, and initiated a instructions for submitting comments be warranted but precluded. 60-day public comment period to allow on Docket No. FWS–R9–ES–2010–0099. In this document, we announce that all interested parties an opportunity to • U.S. mail or hand-delivery: Public listing Philippine cockatoo and yellow- provide information on the status of Comments Processing, Attn: FWS–R9– crested cockatoo as endangered is these 12 species of . The public ES–2010–0099, Division of Policy and warranted, and we are issuing a comment period closed on September Directives Management; U.S. Fish and proposed rule to add those species as 14, 2009. Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, endangered under the Federal Lists of On July 21, 2010, a settlement MS 2042–PDM; Arlington, VA 22203. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife agreement was approved by the Court We will not accept comments by e- and Plants. We find that listing the (CV–10–357, D. D.C.), in which the mail or fax. We will post all comments crimson shining parrot as endangered or Service agreed to (in part) submit to the on http://www.regulations.gov. This threatened is not warranted. We further Federal Register by July 29, 2011, a generally means that we will post any find that listing white cockatoo as determination whether the petitioned personal information you provide us threatened is warranted, and we are action is warranted, not warranted, or (see the Information Requested section issuing a proposed rule to add that warranted but precluded by other listing below for more information). species as threatened under the Federal actions for no less than four of the

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petitioned species. This Federal Public Hearing species but not others. In some cases, Register document complies with the At this time, we do not have a public the factors affecting species are the same first deadline in that court-ordered hearing scheduled for this proposed or very similar and in other cases the settlement agreement. We will rule. The main purpose of most public factors are unique. In each evaluation, announce the 12-month findings for the hearings is to obtain public testimony or we clearly identify what species is being remaining parrot species for which a 90- comment. In most cases, it is sufficient addressed, and if the threat applies to day finding was made on July 14, 2009 to submit comments through the Federal more than one species. (74 FR 33957) in subsequent Federal eRulemaking Portal, described above in Species Information Register notices. the ADDRESSES section. If you would like Information Requested to request a public hearing for this A. Crimson Shining Parrot (Prosopeia proposed rule, you must submit your splendens) We intend that any final actions request, in writing, to the person listed resulting from this proposed rule will be and Species Description in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION based on the best scientific and CONTACT section by September 23, 2011. commercial data available. Therefore, The crimson shining parrot we request comments or information Factors Affecting the Species (Prosopeia splendens, Peale, 1848) is from other concerned governmental endemic to Fiji, where it is found in Section 4 of the ESA (16 U.S.C. 1533) forests, on agricultural lands, and agencies, the scientific community, or and implementing regulations (50 CFR any other interested parties concerning around human habitation (International 424) set forth procedures for adding Union for Conservation of Nature this proposed rule. We particularly seek species to the Federal Lists of (IUCN) 2008). Its most closely related clarifying information concerning: Endangered and Threatened Wildlife species are P. personata (G. R. Gray, (1) Information on taxonomy, and Plants. Under section 4(a)(1) of the 1848), , which distribution, selection and ESA, a species may be determined to be trends (especially breeding and foraging endangered or threatened based on any occurs on Viti Levu; and P. tabuensis ), diet, and population one or a combination of the following (Gmelin, 1788), maroon (red) shining abundance and trends (especially five factors: parrot, which occurs on current recruitment data) of these (A) The present or threatened and . P. splendens and these species. destruction, modification, or two other species are recognized by the (2) Information on the effects of curtailment of its habitat or range; Integrated Taxonomic Information habitat loss and changing land uses on (B) Overutilization for commercial, System (ITIS) (ITIS 2011, http:// the distribution and abundance of these recreational, scientific, or educational www.itis.gov) as valid species. Absent species (particularly the conversion of purposes; peer-reviewed information to the habitat to biofuel production on (C) Disease or predation; contrary and based on the best available Island and any data on (D) The inadequacy of existing information, we consider P. splendens Bacan Island related to the white regulatory mechanisms; or to be a valid species. cockatoo). (E) Other natural or manmade factors The crimson shining parrot’s head, (3) Information on the effects of other affecting its continued existence. neck, and underparts are a bright red. It potential threat factors, including live In considering what factors might is a medium-sized parrot, with a length capture and hunting, domestic and constitute threats, we look beyond the of 45 centimeters (cm) (18 inches (in)). international trade, predation by other actual or perceived exposure of the It has been observed in flocks of up to animals, and any diseases that are species to the factor to determine how known to affect these species or their 40 in the past, but more recently the species responds to the factor and in flocks of up to 12 birds. During the principal food sources. whether the factor causes actual impacts day, this species is generally quiet and (4) Information on management to the species. If there is exposure to a becomes vocal towards dusk, at which programs for parrot conservation, factor, but no response, or only a time it becomes more active. A blue including mitigation measures related to positive response, that factor is not a conservation programs, and any other threat. If there is exposure and the collar extends across the back of its private, nongovernmental, or species responds negatively, the factor neck; its back and rump are bright governmental conservation programs may be a threat and we then attempt to green. Its flight feathers and tail are that benefit these species. determine how significant a factor it is. green, strongly covered with blue. Its (5) The potential effects of climate If the factor is significant, it may drive bill and feet are black, and its irises are change on these species and their or contribute to the risk of of orange. Males and females are similar habitats. the species such that it is considered to morphologically; however, the bill of Please include sufficient information be a threat. In some cases, there is little males is larger, and the head of males with your submission (such as full information available regarding the is more square-shaped than females. It references) to allow us to verify any status of the species, in part due to their differs from the scientific or commercial information remoteness. in its size and coloration; crimson you include. Submissions merely stating This finding addresses the following shining parrots are generally smaller support for or opposition to the action four species of parrots: crimson shining than maroon shining parrots. Rump under consideration without providing parrot, Philippine cockatoo, white feathers on the crimson shining parrot supporting information, although noted, cockatoo, and yellow-crested cockatoo. do not have the red edges that can be will not be considered in making a For each of these parrots, we evaluate seen on the maroon shining parrot. The determination. Section 4(b)(1)(A) of the the five factors under ESA Section main visible features that distinguish ESA directs that determinations as to 4(a)(1) on the species. In some cases, we the crimson shining parrot from the whether any species is an endangered or found under a factor that a threat was masked shining parrot and the maroon threatened species must be made contributing to the extinction risk for shining parrot are the scarlet rather than ‘‘solely on the basis of the best scientific multiple species, while some factors maroon underparts and the blue collar and commercial data available.’’ constituted a threat for some of the at the back of the neck.

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Distribution, Habitat, Biology pp. 1–2). Surveys found that the consider the crimson shining parrot to There is little to no information crimson shining parrot occurred at be common on Kadavu. similar population densities as that of Its range is estimated to be 460 km2 available regarding this species. The 2 crimson shining parrot, also known as the masked shining parrot. In two (178 mi ). However, BLI (2000, pp. 22, the Kadavu musk parrot, is endemic to BirdLife International surveys, 86 27) defines a species’ ‘‘range’’ as the the islands of Kadavu and Ono in Fiji. crimson shining parrots were recorded ‘‘extent of occurrence,’’ which is ‘‘the area contained within the shortest These two islands are separated by a in 38 standardized observer-hours, continuous imaginary boundary which narrow channel, often navigated by similar to the mean of 1.9 masked can be drawn to encompass all the kayaks and other small boats. This shining parrots per hour recorded at 18 known, inferred, or projected sites of species has also been reported on the sites across Viti Levu (BLI 2010a, pp. 1– present occurrence of a species, island of Viti Levu in the Upper Navua 2). Masked shining parrots were excluding cases of vagrancy.’’ Conservation Area (Tokaduadu 2008, estimated to occur at approximately 29 birds per km2 in lowland native forest. Kadavu is the fourth largest of Fiji’s pp. 5, 7), where they are thought to be 2 2 The 2004 crimson shining parrot islands, at 410 km (158 mi ). Kadavu escaped pet birds. There are no known has a human population of 8,700 people records of this species successfully population was estimated using the density of masked shining parrots and and is a mountainous, rugged island breeding other than on the islands of with high peaks and precipitous cliffs the estimated 225 km2 (87 mi2) area of Kadavu and Ono (http:// (Fiji Guide 2011). There are few roads dense and medium-dense forest on www.NatureFiji.org, accessed January 4, and is therefore mainly accessible by Kadavu (Jackson and Jit 2004 in BLI 2011). The island of Kadavu is boat. The Kadavu Island group is 83 km 2010a, p. 1). However, we do not have remarkable in that it has the highest (45 nautical miles) south of Viti-Levu, detailed information about how the number of endemic birds per land area Fiji’s main island. Kadavu is rugged and in the world. It hosts two areas surveys on Kadavu were conducted; mountainous with few roads. The designated by Birdlife International they may have occurred at a time when Kadavu Island group also includes (BLI) as Important Areas (IBAs), the species is not active or visible. There nearby Ono Island, off the eastern tip of including Mount Nabukelevu which is is no evidence that the survey protocol Kadavu, as well as a number of smaller located on the southwestern end of used is appropriate to infer the islands. Ono is 30 km2 (12 mi2) in size Kadavu Island. Mt. Nabukelevu, has the population density of this species. Nor (Planetary Coral Reef Foundation largest area of montane forest on the is there evidence suggesting the two (PCRF) 2010). This island group has island. These IBAs are a way to identify species have the same ecological 12,000 Fijians living in 72 traditional conservation priorities (BLI 2008j, pp. characteristics, levels of disturbance, village communities (PCRF 2010), and 1–2) and are considered to be globally and habitat requirements. For example, there is one airstrip. The primary means important areas for the conservation of Viti Levu has a more dense human of income is subsistence agriculture and bird populations. A site is recognized as population than that on the islands of fishing. an IBA based on the occurrence of key Kadavu and Ono, and human bird species that are vulnerable to global population density often directly for the Crimson extinction or whose populations are influences species population density. Shining Parrot otherwise irreplaceable. These key sites Additionally, we do not know the Fiji is actively involved in forest for conservation are small enough to be historical population of the crimson protection efforts; a new Forest Policy conserved in their entirety and large shining parrot; this species may never was adopted in 2007 (Fiji Ministry of enough to support self-sustaining have had a large population, as it is only Fisheries and Forestry 2009, p. 1). populations of the key bird species. known to be endemic to Kadavu and Crimson shining parrot is also protected Mount Nabukelevu’s montane forest is Ono Islands, so we do not know if this by Fiji’s Endangered and Protected critical for five globally threatened bird species has experienced a decrease in Species (EPS) Act of 2002. Additionally, species, including the crimson shining population size or if its population has Fiji’s first national nongovernmental parrot (BLI 2011d, p. 1; BLI 2010c, p. 1). been fairly consistent. Furthermore, organization (NGO), Nature Fiji, was Very little is known about the ecology species that are endemic to islands tend established recently, and its goal is of this species in the wild (NatureFiji to have smaller population sizes due to conservation of its wildlife. Nature Fiji 2011, pp. 1–2). Although in captivity a smaller carrying capacity of the island. is working closely with BLI to develop this species has been known to exhibit This species is described as being a conservation program to protect aggression in males, it is a social species ‘‘widespread and common’’ on Kadavu endangered wildlife in Fiji such as the in the wild (Lin and Lee 2006, p. 188). and population information on the East crimson shining parrot. It has been observed in flocks of up to Kadavu IBA also lists this species as In 1981, the crimson shining parrot approximately 40 birds (Tabaranza 1992 common (BLI 2011a, p. 1; BLI 2011f, was listed in Appendix II of the as cited in BLI 2001, p. 1679) but more unpaginated). Additionally, notes from Convention on International Trade in recently it has been observed in flocks a 2006 birding trip report indicate that Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and of up to 12 individuals. Flocking is the crimson shining parrot would be Flora (CITES). At that time, almost all thought to serve several purposes ‘‘hard to miss’’ on Kadavu (Skevington Psittaciformes species (i.e., parrots) including mate selection, and learning and Mathieson 2006, unpaginated). were included in Appendix II. CITES is food sources and eating techniques Although the best scientific information an international agreement where (Cameron 2007, pp. 115, 144) available indicates the population of member countries work together to In 2004, the population estimate was crimson shining parrots number 6,000 ensure that international trade in CITES- 6,000 mature birds, with a declining individuals, there is no historical listed animals and plants is not population (Jackson and Jit 2004 in BLI population data to indicate this species detrimental to the survival of wild 2010a, p. 1). However, the species’ has declined or is currently declining. populations. This is achieved by population estimate was inferred from Given the reports from BirdLife regulating import, export, and re-export population surveys conducted on International (BLI 2011a, p. 1; BLI of CITES-listed and plant species another species, the Masked Shining- 2011f, unpaginated) and the lack of and their parts and products through the Parrot (Prosopeia personata) (BLI 2010a, support for a declining population, we use of a permitting system (http://

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www..org). CITES entered into force species is roughly estimated to be a workshop on Kadavu to teach in 1975, and is an international treaty declining at the rate of forest loss, which sustainable agricultural practices and among 175 nations, including Fiji and had been estimated to be 0.5 to 0.8 ways to reduce soil erosion which the United States. In the United States, percent per year across Fiji (Claasen subsequently supports community CITES is implemented through the U.S. 1991 in BLI 2011a, p. 1), and that forest livelihoods. Later, the villages of Endangered Species Act of 1973, as loss may be higher on Kadavu due to Lomati, Nabukelevuira, Qalira, and amended (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). fires in recent years (BLI 2011a, p. 1). Daviqele committed to protect 1,500 Appendix II includes species that are However, there is no information on the hectares (3,707 ac) of their forest that not necessarily threatened with extent of past or current forest loss. Not had been designated as an Important extinction, but may become so unless only does the United Nations describe Bird Area (IBA) on Mount Nabukelevu trade is subject to strict regulation to deforestation in Fiji as modest when in Kadavu (Fiji Daily News 2007). avoid utilization incompatible with the compared with the rest of Melanesia On Kadavu, particularly in the area of species’ survival. International trade in (UN 2011, p. 1), but also local Mount Nabukelevu, many forest-owning specimens (dead or live) of Appendix II communities on Kadavu are mataqalis (clan or landowning units) are species is authorized through permits or implementing reforestation efforts and under pressure to convert their forests certificates. International trade in conservation of this species’ habitat as into agricultural land (BLI 2011e, p. 1). specimens of Appendix II species is described above (Fiji Daily News 2007, In 2010, 10 mataqalis signed an authorized when: (1) The CITES unpaginated). Although the eastern part agreement with an NGO to protect the Scientific Authority of the country of of the island is experiencing pressures forests of Mount Nabukelevu for the export has determined that the export from agricultural encroachment, there is next 20 years (BLI 2011f; NatureFiji will not be detrimental to the survival no evidence that agricultural 2011). The community-declared of the species in the wild; and (2) the encroachment or forest loss due to fires protected area now includes 10 mataqali CITES Management Authority of the currently threatens the crimson shining (clan) lands plus a native reserve. country of export has determined that parrot (NatureFiji 2011, pp. 1–2). Additionally, the Government of Fiji the specimens to be exported were Forests on Kadavu were heavily recognizes that maintaining forests is legally acquired (UNEP–WCMC 2008a, logged in the late 1960s and early 1970s, critically important for Fiji’s people and p. 1). and habitat loss and degradation of biodiversity and has taken steps to In 1988, the crimson shining parrot habitat for agricultural purposes preserve its country’s resources. In was described by the IUCN as lower continues. However, approximately 75 2007, Fiji introduced the Fiji Forest risk/least concern, and the status percent of the island remains forested; Policy, which promotes sustainable changed to vulnerable in 2000 (IUCN East Kadavu IBA is reported to have the forest management. One of the 2008; BLI 2010a), which is its current largest area of old-growth forest in foundations of the new Forest Policy is IUCN classification. The authority for Kadavu, including extensive areas of the concept of ‘‘Permanent Forest compilation of information and lowland rainforest. Furthermore, the Estates’’ (PFEs). The policy promotes determining the appropriate risk crimson shining parrot is reported to sustainable management of healthy extinction category for bird species on use degraded habitats extensively (BLI forests by providing sustainable the IUCN Red List is Birdlife 2011a, p. 1; BLI 2011f, unpaginated). development incentives for landowners. International, and is cited frequently Most river estuaries and bays still hold In addition, the government of Fiji throughout this document. However, large areas of mangroves, which are initiated a campaign to plant one IUCN rankings do not confer any actual used by the crimson shining parrot for million trees in 2010 to halt or slow protection or management. feeding (and possibly breeding), and ecological degradation associated with pressure on mangrove forest here is not the depletion of the world’s forests. Fiji Evaluation of Factors Affecting the currently significant (BLI 2011a, p. 1). launched its One Million Trees Crimson Shining Parrot BLI and Nature Fiji are working with Campaign in support of the 2010 This section contains an assessment landowners on Kadavu to conserve International Year of Biodiversity, and in which we evaluate the effects of any these forested natural areas and to in 2011 as the International Year of of the five factors listed in section increase awareness of the value of Forests. Fiji indicated that they had 4(a)(1) of the ESA on the species. Listing maintaining these areas in a little- surpassed their goal, and participants actions may be warranted based on disturbed state (BLI 2011e, p. 1). NGOs had succeeded in planting over one whether any of the five factors under are working with the landowners in the million trees (Fiji Ministry of section 4(a)(1), singly or in combination, Mount Nabukelevu area to create Information 2011). places the species in danger of awareness about the value of their Although forest loss may be occurring extinction now or in the foreseeable forests and the benefits of establishing within the range of the crimson shining future. Each evaluation is specific to ‘‘Permanent Forest Estates’’ (PFEs) parrot, we have no information on the this species identified unless we specify (described below) on their lands. These extent of forest loss or evidence to that the evaluation is for more than one NGOs are also working to help build the suggest that this loss has impacted or is species. capacity of indigenous communities to currently affecting this species. The continue forest conservation on their crimson shining parrot is found in Factor A. The Present or Threatened own (BLI 2011e, p. 3). BLI, through the forests, agriculture lands, around human Destruction, Modification, or Darwin Initiative, has worked with the habitation, and is known to use Curtailment of Its Habitat or Range Kadavu’s Department of Forestry and degraded habitats extensively. There is little to no evidence of local communities on Kadavu to protect Furthermore, there is no information destruction, modification, or this species’ habitat. The Darwin indicating this species is declining. curtailment of this species’ habitat, in Initiative, implemented by the United Additionally, we have no information to fact, there is recent evidence of Kingdom, assists countries that are rich suggest that habitat loss may become a reforestation efforts and conservation of in biodiversity but poor in financial threat to this species in the future such the species’ habitat taking place (BLI resources to meet their objectives under that it may contribute to the risk of 2011a, p. 1; Fiji Daily Post 2007, 2009, one or more of the three major extinction of this species. Fiji has unpaginated). It was suggested that this biodiversity conventions. BLI conducted implemented proactive policies and

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protections with respect to its forests. larger quantity. Errors do occur in the (Herpestes javanicus), cats and dogs Local conservation activities are database, and the numbers may not be prey heavily on Fiji’s native wildlife occurring on Kadavu; indigenous entirely accurate, but they do provide an (Morley 2004 in Olson et al. 2009, p. 1). communities are interested in approximate representation of However, the mongoose is not present preserving this species and its habitat. international trade that is occurring on Kadavu Island and the only current Therefore, we do not find that the through CITES. However, we consider predator definitely known to occur on present or threatened destruction, the UNEP–WCMC CITES trade data to Kadavu is cats. Cats on Kadavu are modification, or curtailment of its be the best available information known to threaten ground-nesting birds, habitat or range is a threat to the pertaining to international trade in particularly on the coasts, but they are crimson shining parrot now or in the CITES-listed species. not known to threaten the crimson foreseeable future. Although it has been reported that shining parrot. There are no known birds are taken as gifts and there is some predators on Ono Island to our Factor B. Overutilization for illegal trade overseas, it is thought to knowledge. Studies have found that Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or occur in small numbers (BLI 2010a, p. predation rates by introduced predators Educational Purposes 1). Conservation projects described are lowest in natural forests more than Conservation projects on Kadavu are under Factor A have reduced the 4.5 km (2 mi) from forest edges or roads believed to have reduced the numbers of numbers of birds trapped for the pet (Olson et al. 2006). Kadavu’s terrain parrots trapped for trading, but this bird trade (BLI 2011a, p. 1). BLI reports consists of volcanic, mountainous, species is still thought to be captured in that four communities have set up dense rainforest; sandy beaches; rocky small numbers for domestic and village protected areas on Kadavu, and coastline; and mangrove swamps. The international trade (BLI 2010a, p. 1). As they conduct regular bird surveys under island has a significant portion of indicated above, this species has been their own initiative. Additionally, it is relatively undisturbed forested areas. listed in Appendix II of CITES since protected by law against trading and The islands’ forested areas may act as 1981. The United Nations Environment transfers out of Kadavua and Ono refugia from predation by alien Programme—World Conservation (NatureFiji 2011, p. 2). There appears to predators, such as the feral cat, for Monitoring Centre (UNEP–WCMC) be substantial protection, awareness, native species such as the crimson manages a CITES Trade Database on and local conservation of this species shining parrot. behalf of the CITES Secretariat. We occurring. Because there is no evidence Researchers suggest that maintaining queried the UNEP–WCMC CITES Trade of poaching (i.e., hunting by people to minimally-disturbed forests is one of the Database for gross data on export and gain at least a temporary living from the most cost-effective strategies for import of this species since 2000, and activity) or illegal trade of this species protecting species (Olson et al. 2009, p. found no record of trade in this species occurring at levels such that it may 1). Because this species resides in dense (UNEP–WCMC 2011, accessed January contribute to the risk of extinction of the forests far from edges and roads, this 4, 2011.) crimson shining parrot, or information species is not likely to be significantly Each Party to CITES is responsible for indicating poaching or trade may affected by nonnative predators. The compiling and submitting annual increase in the future and rise to the crimson shining parrot likely has reports to the CITES Secretariat level of a threat, we believe that natural predators, but we were unable to regarding their country’s trade in overutilization for commercial, find information that any natural species listed in the CITES Appendices. recreation, scientific, or educational predators are having an impact on this The data from submitted annual reports purposes is not a threat to the species. species. Although predation occurs in is compiled into the database, and it We are unaware of any other Fiji, particularly by nonnative species, provides a mechanism by which CITES information currently available that the best available information does not trade can be assessed. Due to the time addresses overutilization for indicate that predation is a threat to the needed to compile the data, the most commercial, recreation, scientific, or crimson shining parrot on Kadavu or recent year for which comprehensive education purposes that may be Ono now, or may become a threat in the trade statistics are available is normally affecting the crimson shining parrot. We future. 2 years prior to the current year. UNEP– found no evidence of overutilization We are not aware of any occurrence WCMC acknowledges that the data are due to historic or cultural use of this of disease that may be affecting the not always accurate (UNEP–WCMC species by local populations. Based on crimson shining parrot. In conclusion, 2011, p. 5). They indicate that it is not the best available scientific and we find that neither disease nor uncommon for the quantity of commercial information, we find that predation is a threat to the crimson specimens traded to be considerably overutilization for commercial, shining parrot in any portion of its range less than the amount specified on the recreational, scientific, or educational now or in the foreseeable future. permits and that the quantity specified purposes is not a threat to the crimson Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing on the permits is frequently the quantity shining parrot now or in the foreseeable Regulatory Mechanisms that is reported in annual reports. They future. further clarify that trade transactions Various regulatory mechanisms are in that may have been authorized by the Factor C. Disease or Predation place to protect the crimson shining issuance of permits but never have Predation by introduced mammals parrot. This species is listed on Fiji’s taken place, as well as inaccurately such as feral cats (Felis catus) and rats Endangered and Protected Species (EPS) reported volumes of trade, will exist in (Rattus spp.) were identified as possible Act of 2002 which is the legislation that the UNEP–WCMC CITES database. factors affecting this species. There was implements CITES. As discussed under UNEP–WCMC also acknowledges that little to no information found regarding Factor B, the government of Fiji is gross and net outputs from the CITES the occurrence of predation or disease adequately controlling international database are often overestimates of the in Fiji, particularly with respect to the trade. According to a review conducted quantities traded because in cases where crimson shining parrot. As is the case for CITES with respect to national different quantities are reported by the on many remote islands, Fiji has no legislation to determine each country’s importing and exporting countries, the native terrestrial mammals. Introduced ability to implement CITES effectively, CITES database program selects the mammals such as rats, mongoose Fiji meets the requirements for

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implementing CITES (CITES 2011a; States declined from the mid-1980s to mechanisms to protect and manage http://www.cites.org, SC59 Document 1991 (Pain et al. 2006, pp. 322–324). wildlife and their habitats. As described 11, Annex p. 1). In addition to the Parrot imports to the United States were above in our review, we found that the absence of legal trade, there is no already declining before the enactment government of Fiji and NGOs are indication that this species is traded of the WBCA, but the WBCA largely implementing many projects and illegally at levels such that it may curtailed the import of wild parrots; we mechanisms that will likely have a contribute to the risk of extinction of the find it is an adequate regulatory positive impact on this species and its crimson shining parrot. Based on the mechanism for all four of these parrot habitat. Reforestation and conservation lack of trade, and as discussed under species. efforts are occurring. The best scientific Factor B, we do not consider As discussed under Factor B, local and commercial information available international trade to be a threat to the protections are in place on the islands indicates that the crimson shining crimson shining parrot. Therefore, where this species exists. The parrot is not in danger of extinction or protection under CITES is an adequate governmental institutions responsible likely to become so within the regulatory mechanism. for oversight of the conservation of this foreseeable future due to inadequate species have a good legal framework to regulatory mechanisms. Wild Bird Conservation Act manage wildlife and their habitats. Not The import into the United States of only are local NGOs involved in Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade all of these species: the crimson shining conservation activities for this species, Factors Affecting the Continued parrot, Philippine cockatoo, white but there also appears to be adequate Existence of the Species cockatoo, and yellow-crested cockatoo, capacity at various levels to protect this In this section, we examined whether is regulated by the Wild Bird species and its habitat. The forestry invasive species are threats to the Conservation Act (WBCA) (16 U.S.C. regulations appear to be effective; there crimson shining parrot. The eastern part 4901 et seq.), which was enacted on are no reports of illegal logging on the of Kadavu supports several bird species October 23, 1992. The WBCA is islands of Kadavu and Ono. Most of that are endemic to Kadavu. BLI implemented under 50 CFR part 15 and Fiji’s forests are managed or owned by indicated that logging and roads (see has limited or prohibited imports of local communities, which have Factor A) may be facilitating the exotic bird species into the United incentive to protect the native habitat. movement of invasive species. Logging States since 1992. The purpose of the Ownership of native lands is not enables alien invasive species such as WBCA is to promote the conservation of transferable through land sales, but user rats and cats, and in some cases, Indian exotic birds by ensuring that all trade rights can be transferred via land leases or common mynahs (Acridotheres involving the United States is (Leslie and Tuinivanua 2010, p. 10). tristis), jungle mynahs (Acridotheres sustainable and is not detrimental to the These landowning groups are deeply fuscus), and Spathodea campanulata species. The WBCA is a stricter attached to their lands and Fiji’s forestry (African tulip trees), to invade the conservation measure than CITES, and policy supports the local ownership of forests along logging roads and import of these parrot species into the its lands. Within this species’ habitat, clearings. The island of Kadavu may be United States requires issuance of a the forested areas are being adequately experiencing invasive species, but there WBCA import permit. WBCA permits managed and protected by these is no evidence that invasive species are may be issued to allow import of listed mataqalis. birds for various purposes, such as Environmental education, occurring to an extent that they are scientific research, zoological breeding conservation initiatives, and restoration threats to the crimson shining parrot. or display, or personal pets, when efforts are occurring on Kadavu. Nor is there evidence that invasive certain criteria are met. The Service may Another NGO working on Kadavu to species are a threat on Ono Island, approve cooperative breeding programs protect this species is the Matava where the crimson shining parrot is also and subsequently issue import permits Foundation (http:// known to occur. BLI is creating under such programs. Under the foundation.matava.com/2011-projects) community-based conservation groups cooperative breeding program, wild- which is a local NGO associated with a at Fiji’s key conservation sites such as caught birds may be imported into the resort on the island. In addition to the Kadavu Island, and is working with United States if they are a part of conservation efforts in place, the communities to address issues such as Service-approved management plans for remoteness of these islands likely serves effectively dealing with invasive species sustainable use. At this time, none of as an additional protection for this (BLI 2011g, p. 3). We found no other the four parrot species discussed in this species. The crimson shining parrot natural or manmade factors that might document is part of a Service-approved occurs on two islands, and both islands affect the continued existence of the cooperative breeding program, and there are extremely remote and fairly crimson shining parrot now or in the are no approved management plans for undeveloped. These factors all likely future. Based on the best available wild-caught birds of these species. serve as additional protections for this information, we find that there are no Under the provisions of WBCA, any species. other natural or manmade threats to the individual importing their pet bird to In summary, the existing regulatory continued existence of the crimson the United States for the first time must mechanisms appear to be adequate. shining parrot throughout its range now reside outside of the United States for at There are no current records of this or in the foreseeable future. least 12 continuous months. In addition, species in international trade, and the Significant Portion of the Range in order to control diseases, the U.S. government of Fiji is actively Department of Agriculture’s Animal and conducting environmental stewardship Having determined that the crimson Plant Health Inspection Service requires projects. There is nothing to suggest that shining parrot is not in danger of veterinary health certificates and health this factor is a threat to the species. extinction or likely to become so within inspections for pet birds, and Local conservation activities involving the foreseeable future throughout all of implements quarantine procedures for indigenous communities are occurring its range, we must next consider birds imported into the United States. A on Kadavu and this species and its whether there are any significant report published in 2006 showed that habitat appear to be well protected. Fiji portions of the range where the crimson imports of parrot species to the United has enacted various laws and regulatory shining parrot is in danger of extinction

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or is likely to become endangered in the portion of the range is not ‘‘significant,’’ such as invasive species. We found no foreseeable future. we do not need to determine whether information that habitat loss is a threat The Act defines an endangered the species is endangered or threatened to the crimson shining parrot. We species as one ‘‘in danger of extinction there; if we determine that the species conclude that the present or threatened throughout all or a significant portion of is not endangered or threatened in a destruction, modification, or its range,’’ and a threatened species as portion of its range, we do not need to curtailment of its habitat or range is not one ‘‘likely to become an endangered determine if that portion is a threat to the crimson shining parrot. species within the foreseeable future ‘‘significant.’’ We found no information that poaching throughout all or a significant portion of Applying the process described above for the pet trade is a threat to the its range.’’ The term ‘‘significant portion for determining whether a species is species. This species is not in of its range’’ is not defined by the threatened in a significant portion of its international trade according to the statute. For the purposes of this finding, range, we considered status first to UNEP–WCMC trade database. a portion of a species’ range is determine if any threats or potential Additionally, education and public ‘‘significant’’ if it is part of the current threats acting individually or awareness campaigns are occurring in range of the species, and it provides a collectively threaten or endanger the Kadavu. Fiji is actively involved in crucial contribution to the species in a portion of its range. We forest protection efforts; a new Forest representation, resiliency, or have analyzed the potential threats and Policy was adopted in 2007 (Fiji redundancy of the species. For the determined they are essentially uniform Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry 2009, contribution to be crucial it must be at throughout the species’ range. p. 1). We found no evidence that disease a level such that, without that portion, Finding for the Crimson Shining Parrot or predation affects the wild crimson the species would be in danger of shining parrot population. In addition, extinction. Section 3 of the ESA defines an this species is protected by laws against In determining whether a species is ‘‘endangered species’’ as ‘‘any species trading and transfers out of Kadavu and threatened or endangered in a which is in danger of extinction Ono. We also concluded that there are significant portion of its range, we first throughout all or a significant portion of no other natural or manmade factors identify any portions of the range of the its range’’ and a ‘‘threatened species’’ as that are threats to the species (Factor E). species that warrant further ‘‘any species which is likely to become The best available information consideration. The range of a species an endangered species within the indicates that there is little disturbance can theoretically be divided into foreseeable future throughout all or a on the islands where the crimson portions in an infinite number of ways. significant portion of its range.’’ In this shining parrot naturally occurs. Habitat However, there is no purpose to finding, we determine whether the loss is often a threat to wildlife, analyzing portions of the range that are petitioned action is: (a) Not warranted, however, in this case, there is no not reasonably likely to be significant (b) warranted, or (c) warranted but evidence that habitat loss is affecting the and threatened or endangered. To precluded (see Background, above). crimson shining parrot. On the contrary, identify only those portions that warrant As required by the ESA, we this species is said to occupy altered further consideration, we determine considered the five factors separately habitat extensively. Conservation efforts whether there is substantial information and in combination in assessing for this species have been underway indicating that: (1) The portions may be whether the crimson shining parrot is within the past few years to ensure long- significant, and (2) the species may be endangered or threatened throughout all term conservation of habitat where this in danger of extinction there or likely to or a significant portion of its range. We species exists; local groups on Kadavu become so within the foreseeable future. examined the best scientific and are implementing reforestation and In practice, a key part of this analysis is commercial information available conservation programs. Based on the whether the threats are geographically regarding the past, present, and future lack of threats acting on this species concentrated in some way. If the threats threats faced by the crimson shining throughout its range as described above, to the species are essentially uniform parrot. We reviewed the petition, and the lack of information indicating throughout its range, no portion is likely information available in our files, and the species population is in decline, we to warrant further consideration. available published and unpublished determine that this species is not in Moreover, if any concentration of information regarding this species and danger of extinction now, nor is it likely threats applies only to portions of the its habitat. to become endangered within the species’ range that clearly would not We do not have long-term population foreseeable future, throughout all or a meet the biologically based definition of trend data for the crimson shining significant portion of its range. ‘‘significant’’ (i.e., the loss of that parrot. This species has always been an Therefore, we find that listing the portion clearly would not reasonably be island endemic and may have always crimson shining parrot as a threatened expected to increase the vulnerability to had a small population; island endemics or endangered species is not warranted. extinction of the entire species to the tend to have smaller population sizes. point that the species would then be in Without historical population Species Information danger of extinction), such portions will information, we do not know if this B. Philippine Cockatoo (Cacatua not warrant further consideration. species has experienced a decrease in haematuropygia) If we identify portions that warrant population size or if its population has further consideration, we then been fairly consistent. Furthermore, this Taxonomy and Species Description determine their status (i.e., whether in species is reported as common and The species was first taxonomically fact the species is endangered or widespread. During our review of the described by Mu¨ ller in 1776 (BLI threatened in a significant portion of its status of the species, we evaluated the 2011b). We accept the species as C. range). Depending on the biology of the potential threats to the crimson shining haematuropygia, which follows the species, its range, and the threats it parrot including: habitat loss and Integrated Taxonomic Information faces, it might be more efficient for us habitat degradation, take for the pet System (ITIS 2011). to address either the ‘‘significant’’ trade, disease and predation, the Cockatoos are only found in question first, or the status question inadequacy of regulatory mechanisms, Australasia—a few archipelagos in first. Thus, if we determine that a and other natural or manmade factors (Philippines, ,

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East Timor, Tanimbar, Bismarck, and Session, to encourage planting Moringa was estimated to be between 1,000 and Solomon), New Guinea, and Australia— oleifera due to economic benefits 4,000 (Tabaranza 1992 and Lambert suggesting that the modern species arose (Senate Bill 1349 2010, pp. 1–7). The 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1681). after the breakup of Gondwanaland, the Philippine cockatoo has also been Snyder et al. (2000) reported the southern supercontinent that existed observed feeding on the fruits of following population surveys. A 1991 200 to 500 million years ago. The 19th Sonneratia, a mangrove species survey estimated between 800 and 3,000 century naturalist Alfred Russell (Tabaranza 1992; Lambert 1994b in BLI birds exist on (Pandanas, Wallace was among the first to note the 2001, p. 1683). Bugsok, and Bancalan Islands were break in Australasian and Asian fauna. This species nests in tree cavities, and thought to support 100 to 300 Wallace’s line runs between the islands produces two to three eggs per season individuals and Dumaran 150 to 250 of Bali and Lombok, and (Cameron 2007, p. 140). Breeding individuals), and possibly a few , and south of the Philippines. generally occurs March through June hundred were thought to exist in the Cockatoos are present on Lombok and (BLI 2001, p. 1684), and both sexes Tawi-Tawi region (Lambert 1993b, Sulawesi, but not on Bali and Borneo. participate in nest building (Widmann 1994b). A single pair was found on The line represents the western edge of et al. 2001, p. 135). The period between in 1991 (Evans et al. 1993). A a zone of overlap between Australasian incubation and fledging is generally few were found at Mount Isarog, and Asian fauna (known as ), about 95 days (Cameron 2007, p. 140). in 1988 (Goodman and Gonzales 1990), with the eastern edge defined by the The species prefers nests high in the and a few pairs were found in Australian continental shelf (Lydekker’s tree canopy, generally around 30 m (98 at Malpalon (Dutson et al. 1992). On Line) (White and Bruce 1986, p. 32; ft) (BLI 2001, p. 1683), but nest heights Masbate, birds were observed in 1993 Cameron 2007, pp. 1–3). These oceanic between 12 and 35 m (39 to 114 ft) have (Curio 1994), and the species has been islands of Wallacea have high levels of also been observed (Widmann et al. recorded a few times in singles or small endemism, meaning the species that 2001, p. 135). The diameter of the cavity numbers in Rajah Sikatuna National occur there are unique to those islands. openings observed has been between 10 Park, since 1989 (Brooks et al. The Philippine cockatoo, or red- and 25 cm (4 and 10 in) (Widmann et 1995b). In 1994, two pairs (Dutson in vented cockatoo, is locally known as the al. 2001, p. 135). Some artificial nest litt. 1997) were seen on Tawi-Tawi, and ‘‘katala’’ and ‘‘kalangay,’’ and has a boxes have been installed to increase the species was considered widespread helmet crest and a red undertail nesting habitat; the species exhibits a there in 1995–1996, although apparently (Rowley 1997). Cockatoos are a distinct preference for horizontal rather than more often seen in captivity than in the group of parrots (order Psittaciformes), vertical nest boxes (Low 2001, p. 3). wild (two singles were observed in distinguished by the presence of an Some of the tree species they use for Batu-Batu and a single and a pair in erectile crest (Collar 1989, p. 5; Cameron roosting include Dipterocarpus Buan) (Allen in litt. 1997). Three birds 2007, p. 1) and the lack of dyck texture grandiflorus (common names: apitong, were observed on Simunul, Tawi-Tawi in their feathers. Dyck texturing is a tempudau, tunden, lagan bras aput) and in 1996 (Allen in litt. 1997; Dutson et al. microscopic texturing that produces Intsia bijuga (common names: Borneo- 1996). The species is considered extinct blue and green coloration and is present teak, Moluccan ironwood, and merbau on (Brooks et al. 1995a) and in the plumage of other parrots (Brown asam), as well as trees (Lambert Negros (Brooks et al. 1992). Recent and Toft 1999, p. 141). 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1686). They also population counts and estimates are use Garuga floribunda (no common below; however, this information is not Biology, Distribution, and Habitat name [ncn]) and Sonneratia alba (ncn) a complete representation of the This species is endemic to the (Cameron 2007, p. 35). population, but is the best available Philippines, an archipelago of information. Some islands may not hold Population Estimates approximately 7,000 islands. The total viable populations and may be area of the Philippines is 30,000,000 ha Based on recent reports, it is likely functionally extinct. (74,131,614 ac) (Kummer 1991, p. 44). that between 450 and 1,245 individuals Between 2004 and 2010, the The Philippine cockatoo requires remain in the wild. Surveys indicated population estimate decreased from lowland primary or secondary forests that until around the 1980s, the 1,000 to 4,000 individuals to 450 to with suitable nesting tree cavities and Philippine cockatoo was fairly common 1,245 individual birds in the wild food sources, within or adjacent to within the Philippine archipelago (Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 23; riparian or coastal areas with mangroves (Collar et al. 1998; Boussekey 2000, p. BLI 2010b; Widmann and Widmann (IUCN 2008i). The species is reported to 138, BLI 2010, p. 1). Historically, it was 2010, pers. comm.). This species use regenerating forest and even heavily known to exist on 52 islands in the currently is found in the Culasian degraded forest, as long as emergent Philippines; now, it is believed to exist Managed Resource Protected Area nest trees survive. However, its nest on eight islands (BLI 2011a, p. 1). (CMRPA), Palawan, sites are restricted to lowlands The species’ current range is (negligible population), Pandanan and (Widmann and Widmann 2010, pers. significantly reduced from its historic Bugsok Islands, Group, comm.). range. In the past, the species was Rasa Island, Tawi-Tawi, and possibly on The Philippine cockatoo is a food reported to have been commonly found Island. An estimated additional generalist; its diet varies based on the throughout the Philippines except for 400 individuals may survive in the Sulu seasons. It consumes seeds, legumes, northern and central Luzon (Delacour archipelago; however, only sparse fruit, flowers, buds, and nectar. It will and Mayr 1946; DuPont 1971 in information is available for this area also eat agricultural crops such as corn Boussekey 2000, p. 138; Collar et al. (Widmann et al. 2007; Widmann et al. and rice, and has been observed feeding 1999 in Widmann and Widmann 2008, 2009a; Widmann et al. 2010a). on Moringa oleifera (commonly known p. 23). It was common throughout the Subpopulations away from Palawan and as malunggay or horseradish tree). Philippines as recently as the 1950s. the Sulus are thought to be very small, Interestingly, the government of the Between 1980 and 2000, there was a 60 and do not likely have viable Philippines introduced a bill in 2010, in to 90 percent population decline populations (Widmann 2010, pers. the Fifteenth Congress of the Republic throughout its range (Boussekey 2000, p. comm.) The extent these populations of the Philippines, First Regular 138). In the early 1990s, the population are interbreeding is unclear at this time.

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Detailed discussion of each of these in this area within the past 3 years, and and is not yet very developed. Polillo areas follows. breeding in the 2009–2010 season Island itself is 1,000 km2 (386 mi2). As failed. Because all nests have been of 2009, within the Polillo group of TABLE 1—POPULATION COUNTS AND systematically poached over many islands, Patnanungan Island was known ESTIMATES OF PHILIPPINE years, extinction of this population is to contain a population of the COCKATOO BETWEEN 2007 AND likely to occur suddenly due to lack of Philippine cockatoo (Widmann et al. 2010 ON ISLANDS IN THE PHIL- recruitment (Widmann and Widmann 2010, p. 15). However, no roosting sites IPPINES 2010, pers. comm.). have been identified on this island (Widmann et al. 2010, p. 23). Dumaran Island Number of individ- Patnanungan Island is mainly covered uals based on re- On Dumaran Island, which is off the with secondary vegetation and coconut cent observation, Location northeastern coast of Palawan, three plantations (Widmann et al. 2010, p. population count, or areas are managed by the Katala 22). Seven nest trees are being estimate Foundation’s Philippine Cockatoo monitored in this area (Widmann et al. 60 ...... Bugsok Island (40 to 80 Conservation Programme (PCCP). Two 2009b, p. 7). To the best of our estimated). of those are protected areas: the Omoi knowledge, there is not a viable 20 ...... Burdeos, Polillo Islands. Cockatoo Reserve and the Manambaling population on Polillo Island, although 3 ...... CMRPA, Palawan Is- Cockatoo Reserve (Widmann et al. the species has been observed there. In land. 2009b, p. 7). The third area is Lagan, 2009, in Burdeos, six Philippine 23 ...... Dumaran, Lagan. which is also monitored and managed cockatoos were spotted in Duyan-Duyan 80 ...... Pandanan Island. by the PCCP. On Dumaran Island, the Forest in the Anibawan , where 2 ...... Patnanungan, Polillo Is- protected suitable forest patches are lands. it is regularly heard (Widmann et al. each very small: 1.5 and 0.6 km2 (0.6 2009a, p. 41; Widmann et al. 2010, p. 280 ...... Rasa Island. 2 4 ...... Samar. and 0.2 mi ), respectively (Widmann 38). In part, because there were fewer 200 ...... Tawi-Tawi (100 to 400 and Widmann 2008, p. 24). On this than 20 birds prior to their protection, estimated). island in 2008, although 10 eggs were recovery is slow (Widmann and 672 ...... TOTAL* counted, only two birds fledged Widmann 2010, pers. comm.). (Widmann et al. 2009b, p. 6). Recovery * Note: This is not a full population survey; it Rasa Island documents birds actually counted, observed, is slow; they started with fewer than 20 or estimated (Widmann 2010, pers. comm.). birds before protection started Rasa Island is a protected 8 km2 (3 (Widmann and Widmann 2010, pers. mi2) island off the east coast of Narra, Culasian Managed Resource Protected comm.). Palawan. This island was declared a Area wildlife sanctuary in 2006 (Widmann et This area is in the south of Palawan Pandanan and Bugsok Islands al. 2010, p. 15). As of 2007, 1.75 km2 Island and is 1,954 hectares (ha) (4,828 Pandanan and Bugsok (119 km2) (46 (0.6 mi2) of the island was coastal and acres (ac)). The total land area of mi2) are small islands south of Palawan, mangrove forest. In 2008, 32 nest trees Palawan is approximately 1.5 million ha within the Balabac Island Region. It is were found to be occupied, 21 pairs had (3.7 million ac), including the 1,767 likely that Pandanan holds possibly the successful fledglings, and the islands and islets surrounding the main second-most important population of population was estimated to be 205 island. This species exists both within Philippine cockatoos, containing at least individuals (Widmann et al. 2008, p. 14; the actual designated protected area 80 individuals (Widmann and Widmann Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 27; (CMRPA) and in the areas surrounding 2010, pers. comm.). Approximately 40 Widmann et al. 2009b, p. 5–6). Breeding the protected area on Palawan Island. birds were observed in a coconut success was 63 percent; 49 fledglings Philippine cockatoos are thought to plantation in 2009 on Malinsuno Island, were banded (Widmann and Widmann travel between Palawan Island and a 10-hectare (24-acre) nearby island that 2008, p. 24). Population recruitment in nearby Rasa Island. This species has is part of the Pandanan Barangay years that experienced sufficient been known to fly from the mainland to (equivalent to county or province) precipitation in Rasa has been good. As offshore islands as far as 8 km (5 mi) (Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 5; Widmann of 2009, Rasa Island had 64 nest trees, away from the mainland to roost and and Widmann 2010, pers. comm.). On and its cockatoo population was breed. No roosting sites are known in Bugsok Island, Balabac, also in the approximately 280 individuals, making the CMRPA and surrounding areas Pandanan Barangay, approximately 40 it the area with the highest natural (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 23); however, cockatoos were also recently observed density of Philippine cockatoos there have been recent sightings there: roosting (Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 5). A (Widmann 2010b). PCCP estimates that four were observed in September 2009, large part of Pandanan Island itself is Rasa Island contains about 20 percent of and three were observed in December not easily accessible, and because it is the total Philippine cockatoo population 2009 (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 37). At privately managed, it is protected for the (Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 19). The least two Philippine cockatoos persist most part. PCCP is working on building success of cockatoos on this island is inside the protected area, but they have a relationship with organizations to likely due to the lack of potable water, not bred in the last 4 years. monitor and formally protect this which makes it unattractive to human CMRPA has been described as island, and wardens are being hired as settlement (BLI 2001, p. 1687). The exhibiting the ‘‘empty forest syndrome.’’ of 2010 (Widmann et al. 2010, pp. 26, Philippine cockatoo population on this Although its forest is largely intact, little 56). island has grown due to intense wildlife remains due to hunting management; in 1997, there were only Polillo Islands Group pressure and poaching. In the small about 50 birds on Rasa Island (Widmann population that was protected only This group of islands is and Widmann 2008, p. 24). recently here, there are no indications approximately 110 km (68 mi) east of that the species’ status is improving. Manila, in Quezon Province in the Other Islands Only one breeding pair exists outside of northern Philippines. Patnanungan Little current data exists regarding the the reserve. Cockatoo poaching occurred Island is part of the Polillo Island Group status of the Philippine cockatoo on

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other islands, such as Samar and Tawi- p. 1; Widmann and Widmann 2010, Palawan, the primary location of the Tawi, in part because these areas are pers. comm.). Philippine cockatoo, was suspended by extremely remote. The Katala presidential decree; however, nearly all Conservation Status for the Philippine Foundation Inc. (KFI) surveyed Samar of the island’s forests were already Cockatoo in 2002, at which time only two leased to logging operations (Lambert individual Philippine cockatoos were Protections exist through various 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1686; Galang verified. Sightings were reported national, local, and international 2004, p. 14). Many of Palawan’s recently in (Coron) and mechanisms. This species was mangroves, which covered 46,000 ha on Bellatan Island in the Tawi-Tawi transferred from Appendix II to (13,668 ac) in 1988, were also cleared region. KFI recently received a report Appendix I of CITES in 1992 (refer to for fishpond construction (Quinnell and from a member of the Wild Bird Club, the discussions under Factors B and D Balmford 1988 in BLI 2001, p. 1686). As Philippines, that approximately 30 to 40 for the crimson shining parrot above for a result of the pressures for resources, individuals were sighted on Bellatan more information about CITES). much of the forest is now either Island (Widmann and Widmann 2010, Inclusion in Appendix I means that secondary forest or has been converted pers. comm.). Sightings of this species international commercial trade is to plantations or agriculture (Heaney et on Dinagat, Surigao del Norte, and generally prohibited (http:// al. 1998, 88 pp.; Galang 2004, pp. 13– Samal Islands, Davao, have been www.cites.org). From 1981 to 1992, the 14). In most areas within the range of reported, but they remain unverified Philippine cockatoo was listed in the Philippine cockatoo, there is a (Widmann and Widmann 2010, pers. Appendix II of CITES. The species is severe shortage of timber and firewood; comm.). protected under the Philippines consequently, illegal logging is An older survey indicated that Republic Act 9147, otherwise known as widespread. In addition to mangrove possibly 100 to 200 Philippine the Wildlife Resources Conservation logging, slash-and-burn farming cockatoos existed in the Tawi-Tawi and Protection Act of 2001 or the (referred to as ‘‘kaingin’’ in the region; however, those data are from ‘‘Wildlife Act of 2001.’’ It is classified as Philippines) is a problem in many areas, over 20 years ago, and, therefore, no ‘‘Critically Endangered’’ by the particularly in the Polillo Island Group. longer likely to be an accurate government of the Philippines under Soil erosion is a secondary impact population estimate (Lambert 1993, this Act (DENR 2010b, p. 2). It is on the that further degrades suitable habitat Dutson 1997, and Allen 1997 in Snyder Philippines list of protected species (Kummer 1991, p. 41), as demonstrated 2000, p. 84; BLI 2010b, p. 1). Tawi-Tawi (DENR 2010b, p. 2), under the Republic on Samar Island. In addition to habitat degradation and destruction through is in the southwestern part of the Act No. 9147. The Republic No. road construction, digging, removal of Philippines in the Sulu Archipelago. provides for the conservation and trees, and mining are causing secondary Tawi-Tawi consists of 107 islands and protection of wildlife resources and habitat degradation through severe islets and is approximately 1,197 km2 their habitats. It prohibits certain erosion. During the rainy season, water (462 mi2) in area. The island of Tawi- activities such as capture and trade of creates deep clefts along the roads that Tawi itself is 484 km2 (187 mi2) (Dutson live wildlife, including the Philippine are created for mining operations, et al. 1996, p. 32) and is part of the cockatoo. It is also protected in the U.S. causing road collapse. No mitigation Autonomous Region in Muslim by the WBCA (refer to discussion under measures have been put into place to (ARMM). This area has the Crimson Shining Parrot, factor D). The Philippine cockatoo is also listed reduce erosion (IUCNb 2010, pp. 1–2). experienced problems with logging, Virtually all chainsaw operations in military activity, and insurgency but is as Critically Endangered in the 2010 IUCN Red List. Critically endangered is Patnanungan and Burdeos are not now encouraging ecotourism registered with the appropriate (Philippines Department of Natural IUCN’s most severe category of extinction assessment, which equates to authority (Widmann et al. 2010). Resources (DENR) 2005; IUCN 2010b; Cockatoos are highly impacted by Manila Bulletin 2010), which may have an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. IUCN criteria include rate of selective logging of primary forests positive effects on the Philippine because they are large birds and cockatoo. decline, population size, area of geographic distribution, and degree of subsequently require large nests. Samar is the third largest island in the Selective logging, which targets mature Philippines archipelago. It experienced population and distribution fragmentation; however, IUCN rankings trees, has a negative impact on tree- threats from logging and mining in the cavity nesters such as the Philippine do not confer any actual protection or past, but in 1989, an unexpected natural cockatoo. Research has found that the management. disaster resulted in initiation of abundance of cockatoos is positively conservation actions (Samar Island Evaluation of Factors Affecting the related to the density of its favored nest Natural Park 2010, p. 1). Due to the Philippine Cockatoo tree and strangling figs (Ficus spp.) intense landslides that occurred as a (Kinnaird et al. 2003, p. 227). These are Factor A. The Present or Threatened result of logging activities, a logging trees that would be impacted by logging, Destruction, Modification, or moratorium was put into place that especially since reduced-impact logging Curtailment of Its Habitat or Range year. Samar Island Natural Park was techniques are seldom applied. Once subsequently established on the island, Widespread deforestation and the primary forest is logged, the which may have positive results for the destruction of native mangroves have secondary forest is generally converted Philippine cockatoo. Samar has been affected the habitat of the Philippine to other uses or logged again rather than reported to contain one of the cockatoo. The loss of this species’ being allowed to return to primary Philippines’ largest unfragmented tracts habitat through deforestation largely forest. Therefore, although cockatoos of lowland rainforest. There have been occurred prior to the 1980s (Kummer may continue to inhabit secondary several reports of Philippine cockatoo 1991, p. 46; Galang 2004, p. 13). Forest forests, the population is usually at a sightings on Samar, but there is no cover decreased in Palawan from 10,703 substantially lower number due to a current estimate of how many exist km2 (4,132 mi2) in 1950, to 6,605 km2 decrease in suitable nesting sites. there other than the reported sightings (2,550 mi2) in 1987 (Kummer 1991, p. It is well documented that habitat loss (Widmann et al. 2006, p. 13; BLI 2010 57). In the 1990s, commercial logging on is one of the most significant effects

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humans have on wild species (Fahrig exist (Widmann and Widmann 2010, fires are common, particularly during 1997, p. 603; Vitousek et al. 1997). In pers. comm.). Although mining does not the dry season. Fire is not only used to some cases, corridors are established to occur directly within Philippine clear areas for cultivation, but also to promote connectivity between cockatoo habitat, it indirectly adds to further growth of fresh grass for populations of species to reduce the habitat loss and degradation on the pastures. effects of habitat fragmentation, and this island (Novellino et al. 2010, pp. 1–48). In the other areas where this species has been shown to be effective (Haddad These threats to the ecosystem still exist exists, the current extent of the present et al. 2003, pp. 609–615; Cameron 2007, despite legislative protections in and threatened destruction, pp. 110–112). In the case of the Palawan (refer to Factor D). modification, or curtailment of the Philippine cockatoo, a ‘‘virtual’’ Rasa Island contains a large species’ habitat is unclear; however, it is corridor is being created by artificially percentage of the Philippine cockatoo likely that the pressures on the species transplanting captive-reared cockatoos population, although small in actual are similar, if not worse (BLI 2010b; into suitable, relatively protected numbers. In addition to the formal Widmann et al. 2010, p. 15). Human habitat; however, it is unclear how protection measures in place on Rasa encroachment and concomitant much this species naturally moves from Island, this population is actively increasing human population pressures one island habitat to another. This monitored and protected by PCCP staff exacerbate the destructive effects of species in the past has been known to (Widmann et al. 2010a, b, c). While this ongoing human activities throughout fly from the mainland to nearby islands population is reasonably protected, in the Philippine cockatoo’s habitat. at distances of 8 km (5 mi). Researchers part due to island’s undesirable Increased urbanization and mining lead point out that at the metapopulation characteristics for human settlement to increased infrastructure development. scale, habitat fragmentation causes such as the lack of potable water, any Road building and mining projects habitat patches to be reduced in size deforestation and habitat loss here are further facilitate human access to and to be isolated from one another, and significant factors affecting the species. remaining forest fragments, throughout gene flow between patches is decreased This is because so little of the species’ the species’ range, including protected (Blanchet et al. 2010, p. 291). Because habitat remains and because they are areas. Mining projects, such as those this species’ population reduction and experiencing other pressures as well, proposed or occurring on Palawan, open fragmentation has occurred so recently such as poaching, described under new areas to exploitation and attract and rapidly, it is unlikely that there are Factor B, below. people seeking employment; these significant genetic differences between On Dumaran Island, the pending pressures from human development will the existing populations. However, implementation of a Jatropha plantation likely spill over into nearby Philippine habitat loss and fragmentation are is occurring within the few remaining cockatoo habitat. affecting this species. forest patches left (Widmann et al. The Palawan Islands Region is 2010a, pp. 6, 32, 46). Jatropha curcas Summary of Factor A essentially the last area where trees produce a fruit with an inedible oil We have identified a number of Philippine cockatoos have a viable that contains a high energy content and threats to the habitat of the Philippine population. Although Palawan has been is being explored as an alternative fuel cockatoo that have operated in the past, seen as a center for environmental (Mendoza et al. 2007, p. 1). A hectare of are impacting the species now, and will preservation (McNally 2002, p. 9), it still Jatropha has been claimed to produce continue to impact the species. Habitat faces many threats, in part due to a 1,892 liters (500 gallons) of fuel. Many loss and degradation from past events, burgeoning human population (IUCN industries such as the air transportation such as selective and commercial 2010b, p. 1; Laurance et al. 2010, p. industry are considering this as a logging, conversion to plantations or 377). The human population of the biofuel source, and it is also being agriculture, and mining, have decreased Philippines in 2009 was estimated at touted as a mechanism for carbon this species’ suitable habitat; and these 91,983,000 (United Nations (UN) 2009, credits. However, because this species activities are still occurring. Illegal p. 41) and is experiencing a growth rate occurs in areas that are managed and logging (discussed under Factor D) is of 1.7 percent annually (UN 2009, p. protected by the PCCP, the Omoi widespread in the Philippines (Kummer 51). Palawan, in particular, has Cockatoo Reserve and the Manambaling 1991, pp. 70–75; Galang 2004, pp. 12, experienced rapid human population Cockatoo Reserve (Widmann et al. 17, 22; Laurence 2007, p. 1544), which growth (McNally 2002, pp. 8–9). As of 2009b, p. 7), we do not find that adds to any pressures of legal pending implementation of a Jatropha 2002, ‘‘Palawan remains a highly deforestation. Based on the best plantation is a threat to the species on attractive place of destination for available scientific and commercial data Dumaran Island. migrants from other areas within the available, we find that the present and Philippines’’ (McNally 2002, p. 11). PCCP currently manages three areas on Dumaran Island, including a newly threatened destruction, modification, or While the burgeoning human curtailment of the species’ habitats, population on Palawan may not directly acquired buffer area in Omoi (Widmann et al. 2010, p. 32). Dumaran Island also particularly in the Palawan area, is a affect the Philippine cockatoo, it does threat to the Philippine cockatoo indirectly affect the species by experiences widespread slash-and-burn throughout all of its range. contributing to the habitat losses and agriculture, which has begun to affect pressures described within this section. more forested areas on steeper slopes Factor B. Overutilization for Despite the protection measures that here (Widmann 2008a, p. 19). Larger Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or are in place to prohibit mining and forested parts of the island are now Educational Purposes other activities that degrade habitat, replaced with grass and shrubland, and mining operations and oil palm dense stands of bamboo, as a Illegal Pet Trade plantations are being developed on consequence of this practice. Due to The Philippine cockatoo, like all Palawan Island (IUCN 2010c, pp. 1–3; lack of water, irrigation systems, and cockatoos, is a desirable pet (Cameron Novellino 2010, pp. 2–48). The level areas, lowland rice cultivation is 2007, p. vii). In the Philippines, Philippine cockatoo has not been very restricted. However, permanent cockatoos are reported to be popular recorded in areas in southern Palawan forms of cultivation are coconut and pets due to their ability to mimic human where mining and oil palm plantations cashew plantations. Forest and grass voices (Catigob-Sinha 1993 in

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Boussekey 2000, p. 138). On Palawan, This species is still is being poached in commercial purposes (CITES Article Pandanan, and Samar Islands, trapping the wild (Widmann et al. 2010). III(3)). Export permits are issued only if is a particularly serious threat Although we are unsure of the findings are made that the specimen (Widmann et al. 2010a, pp. 21–22; magnitude of the pet trade and its effect was legally acquired and trade is not Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 16) and is still on the survival of this species, several detrimental to the survival of the considered to be one of the most reports describe how poaching is still a species. (CITES Appendix III(2)). These significant threats to the species. problem for parrot species, particularly two findings made prior to issuance of Awareness campaigns have been in poorer countries (Dickson 2005, p. a CITES permit are designed to ensure initiated since the late 1990s to increase 548; http://www.philippinecockatoo.org, that international trade in a CITES-listed understanding of why these birds accessed February 14, 2011). In areas species is not detrimental to that should not be removed from the wild for with extreme poverty, poaching can be species. pets, and these campaigns are somewhat a lucrative and relatively risk-free An exception to permitting effective (Widmann et al. 2010). Due to source of income (Dickson 2005; Cribb requirements for international trade of the high value of these birds (valued at 2007; Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 22). In Appendix I species exists specimens $160 U.S. dollars (USD) in Manila in many cases, poachers have limited originating from a CITES-registered 1997, and $300 USD in 2006 (BLI 2010, income prospects (Widmann et al. captive-breeding operation. Under the p. 1)), chicks are taken from virtually 2010a, p. 37). A common conservation exception in the CITES Treaty and every accessible nest on these islands practice is to provide poachers with Resolution Conf. 12.10 (Rev. CoP15), (Widmann et al. 2010a, pp. 21–22). A alternative sources of income. After the specimens of Appendix-I species researcher observed that in the 1980s, benefits of species and habitat originating from CITES-registered up to 10 Philippine cockatoos were conservation are explained to them, captive-breeding operations can be trapped per day (Tabaranza 1992 in BLI they are generally receptive to resource traded for commercial purposes, and 2001, p. 1685). conservation and ultimately gain a sense shipments only need to be accompanied In recent years, several programs to of stewardship of the resources. This by an export permit issued by the combat the poaching problem, such as technique has been effective in the past, exporting country. An import permit is public awareness programs and the but it is resource-intensive and has only not required because these specimens rehabilitation and release of confiscated a localized effect. are treated as CITES’ Appendix-II PCCP also broadcasts local radio parrots were established by the PCCP to species. There is one CITES-registered programs raising conservation captive-breeding operation in the support the conservation of the awareness. For example, in August Philippines that is authorized to export Philippine cockatoo. PCCP started these 2010, they broadcast an interview captive bred specimens of this species awareness programs to educate adults regarding wildlife trade and a recent (http://www.cites.org/common/reg/ and children in villages near areas confiscation in Palawan (Widmann et e_cb.html, accessed December 12, 2010). where the birds are concentrated. The al. 2010c, p. 73). Conservation-focused Countries operating CITES-registered programs use the Philippine cockatoo as radio programs have occurred here since operations must ensure that the a flagship species for conservation, 1996 (Boussekey 2000, p. 140). operation ‘‘will make a continuing especially with children, because the However, even with these education meaningful contribution according to image of the endemic Philippine and conservation measures in place, the conservation needs of the species’’ cockatoo is unique (Widmann et al. poaching still occurs in the Philippines (CITES 2007b, pp. 1–2). Countries that 2010, pp. 21–22). PCCP focuses in areas (Widmann et al. 2010c). Based on the are parties to CITES are advised to where this species is found in the wild, available information, and the relatively restrict their imports of Appendix-I such as the CMRPA, to educate the local small number of Philippine cockatoos captive-bred specimens to those coming communities in an attempt to reduce remaining in the wild, we find that only from CITES-registered operations. poaching. In 2005, on Palawan Island, poaching for the pet trade in the Additional information on CITES- PCCP began an initiative specifically Philippines is a threat to the Philippine registered operations can be found on targeted towards anti-poaching in the cockatoo throughout all of its range. the CITES Web site at http:// CMRPA. Former poachers were International Trade and CITES www.cites.org/eng/resources/ identified and converted into wildlife registers.shtml. wardens. This ‘‘conversion’’ practice is The Philippine cockatoo was We queried the UNEP–WCMC CITES common in developing countries that transferred to CITES’ Appendix I in June Trade Database for data on exports and have human populations that rely 1992 because populations were imports of this species from 2000 to heavily on forests and wildlife for their declining rapidly due to uncontrolled 2009, and there were very few exports survival (Cribb 2006, p. 3). These trapping for the pet bird trade. Refer to from the Philippines reported as ‘‘wild’’ converted poachers-now-wardens the Factor B discussion above under the origin. Between 2000 and 2009, CITES safeguard the nesting trees, and patrol crimson shining parrot for additional Party countries reported to UNEP– and monitor inside CMRPA in the information about CITES. An Appendix- WCMC that a total of 91 live Philippine southwest region of Palawan (Widmann I listing includes species threatened cockatoos were imported (http:// et al. 2010). with extinction whose trade is www.unep-wcmc-apps.org/citestrade) Because illegal trade is difficult to permitted only under exceptional into their countries, at an average of 10 monitor and quantify, it is unclear to circumstances, which generally birds per year. The majority of these (78) what extent poaching for the pet trade precludes commercial trade. The import originated from the Philippines; 77 of is affecting this species. Considering of an Appendix-I species requires the these live shipments were reported to be that in the early 1990s, the population issuance of both an import and export of captive-origin, and only one was was estimated to be only between 1,000 permit. Import permits are issued only indicated to be of wild origin. and 4,000 birds (Tabaranza 1992 and if findings are made that the import Additionally, in 2009, the UNEP– Lambert 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1681), would be for purposes that are not WCMC CITES Trade Database indicated relatively high numbers were legally detrimental to the survival of the that only two live birds were exported traded internationally in the 1980s (e.g., species in the wild and that the from the Philippines. As the Philippine 422 reported in 1983; BLI 2010, p. 1). specimen will not be used for primarily cockatoo is listed as an Appendix-I

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species under CITES, legal commercial adversely affects the Philippine (DEFRA 2005, p. 34). However, they international trade is very limited. cockatoo at the population level in the concluded that the source was more Based on the low numbers of live, wild wild. likely the sample from the mesia Philippine cockatoos in international (DEFRA 2005, p. 34). Later, it was Proventricular Dilatation Disease trade since 2000, and because the trade determined that the samples had been was in parts and products from wild Another serious disease that has been mixed, and the parrot did not have the specimens, rather than live birds, we reported to infect some cockatoos is disease (Gauthier-Clerk et al. 2007, p. believe that international trade Proventricular Dilatation Disease (PDD). 208). Although in the Philippines, 339 controlled via valid CITES permits is PDD is a fatal disease that may pose a smuggled parrots were euthanized not a threat to the species. serious threat to domesticated and wild following confiscation even though parrots worldwide, particularly those none were confirmed to have the virus Summary of Factor B with very small populations (Waugh (Metz 2006a, pp. 24–25), we are In summary, cockatoos are popular 1996, p. 112; Kistler et al. 2008, p. 1). unaware of any reports that this disease pets, and poaching for the pet trade still This contagious disease causes damage occurs in Philippine cockatoos in the occurs, particularly on Pandanan Island to the nerves of the upper digestive wild. (Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 13). Although tract, so that food digestion and we do not find that international trade absorption are negatively affected. The Aspergillosis controlled via valid CITES permits is a disease has a 100 percent mortality rate Aspergillosis is an infection or threat to the species, we do find that in affected birds, although the exact allergic response to the Aspergillus poaching for the pet trade in the manner of transmission between birds is fungus. A literature review found that Philippines continues to be a threat to unclear. Although this is a particularly cases of Aspergillosis were being the Philippine cockatoo. virulent virus that affects cockatoos in reported in captive-held, wild-origin general, we are unaware of any reports Philippine cockatoos in the Philippines Factor C. Disease or Predation that this disease occurs in Philippine at the U.S. Air Force Base, Clark Field, In the information provided and the cockatoos in the wild. Angeles City (Burr 1981, p. 21). In all literature reviewed, there were known cases according to the report, Avian Influenza suggestions that diseases, particularly a stress, such as enclosure in a small bird fungal disease, in the wild may be a Wild birds, especially waterfowl and cage, was indicated to be a factor prior threat to this species. It was suggested shorebirds, are natural reservoirs of to death. Observations indicated that that Viscertropic Velogenic Newcastle avian influenza (also known as ‘‘bird free-flying birds in aviaries showed no Disease, Psittacine Beak and Feather flu’’). Most strains of the avian influenza signs of stress, and there were no deaths Disease (PBFD), or the psittacid herpes virus have low pathogenicity and cause recorded in these birds. Natural virus (PsHV–1 or PsHV–2) were few clinical signs in infected birds. incidence of Aspergillosis in the wild indicated as possible threats and may Pathogenicity is the ability of a occurs in the Philippine cockatoo; have been introduced into the wild pathogen to produce an infectious however, it appears to be more population, possibly by the release of disease in an organism. However, prevalent in captive birds. During one captive birds (Lambert 1994 in BLI strains can mutate into highly survey, Aspergillus spores were found 2001, p. 1686; BLI 2010b, p. 1). pathogenic forms, which is what below nest holes in Palawan (Tabaranza Cockatoo species are widely distributed happened in 1997, when the highly 1992; Lambert 1994 in BLI 2001, p. throughout Australasia, and some avian pathogenic avian influenza virus (called 1686). The Philippine cockatoo is likely species have developed resistance to H5N1) first appeared in Hong Kong a latent carrier of Aspergillus (Burr some diseases (Commonwealth of (USDA et al. 2006, pp. 1–2). H5N1 is 1981, p. 23); however, based on a review Australia 2006, p. 1). These diseases mainly propagated by commercial of the best available information, there affect each cockatoo species differently. poultry living in close quarters with is no recent information indicating that humans. The effect on migratory birds is this disease negatively affects this Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease less clear (Metz 2006a, p. 24). Scientists species at the population level in the Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease increasingly believe that at least some wild (Widmann et al. 2010c, p. 45). (PBFD) is a viral disease that originated migratory waterfowl carry H5N1, in Australia and affects both wild and sometimes over long distances, and Lice and Mites captive birds, causing chronic infections introduce the virus to poultry flocks Ectoparasitism by lice and mites was resulting in either feather loss or (World Health Organization 2006, p. 2). documented as the possible cause of deformities of beak and feathers H5N1 has infected and caused death in death in some chick mortalities on Rasa (Cameron 2007, p. 82). PBFD causes domestic poultry, people, and some Island (Widmann et al. 2001, p. 146; immunodeficiency and affects organs wild birds in Asia, Europe, and Africa. Widmann et al. 2010a, pp. 6, 38). Mites, such as the feathers, liver, and brain. About half of humans infected die from a form of arachnid, were found in some Suppression of the immune system can the disease (Service 2006, p. 1). A parrot monitored nests where chicks had died. result in secondary infections due to held in quarantine in the United Although nests are being routinely other viruses, bacteria, or fungi. The Kingdom was incorrectly diagnosed monitored on Rasa Island, mites are not disease can occur without obvious signs with H5N1 is 2005. The original commonly found in these nests. Mites (de Kloet and de Kloet 2004, p. 2394). identification of H5N1 was made from have evolved in a symbiotic relationship Birds usually become infected in the a pool of tissues derived from a Pionus with avian species. Not all bird-mite nest by ingesting or inhaling viral parrot (from Surinam) and another avian relationships are parasitic; some might particles. Infected birds develop species called a mesia (Leiothrix spp.) be benign or beneficial (Proctor and immunity, die within a couple of weeks, from Taiwan. The Department for Owens 2000, pp. 358, 362). Many mites or become chronically infected. No Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, are nonparasitic scavengers and use the vaccine exists to immunize populations United Kingdom (DEFRA) stated that it nest or bird feathers as habitat. Despite (Cameron 2007, p. 82). While some was not possible to say whether the the presence of mites found in nests cockatoo species are susceptible to this virus isolated came from the parrot where chick mortalities were observed, virus, there is no indication that PBFD tissue or the mesia tissue or both there is no evidence that mites

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significantly contribute to chick 1987, the Government of the Philippines members of the Batak tribe survive mortalities. We conducted a search of established the Protected Areas and today, so the effectiveness in the long available information, and there is no Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) through the term is unclear (Cultural Survival 2010 other information indicating that lice DENR, under Executive Order 192. Its and Survival International 2010, both and mites significantly affect the responsibilities are in part to manage accessed November 18, 2010). These species, although mites may occur more and protect the country’s protected regulatory mechanisms could have a frequently during dryer seasons areas. In 1992, the National Integrated positive effect on the species, but (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 38; Widmann Protected Areas System Act (NIPAS Act currently it is unclear whether et al. 2010c, pp. 39, 45). It was suggested of 1992) was adopted in order to protect Executive Order No. 247 is benign or that unusually high temperature, rather and maintain the Philippines’ biological actually constructive. than mites, may have contributed to the diversity. In 1994, the PAWB signed a As discussed under Factor B, the lack of nest success in 2001 (Widmann memorandum of agreement () Philippine cockatoo is monitored and et al. 2010c, p. 45); however, the actual regarding the conservation of this managed in some, but not all, areas reasons for nest failures (mortalities) are species (Boussekey 2000, p. 138, where it exists. Some areas are unclear. Philippines DENR 2009, pp. 1–2). This designated as protected specifically for MOA has been implemented by a the Philippine cockatoo and wardens Summary of Factor C nongovernmental organization, the are employed (Widmann et al. 2010a, When conducting a status review, we Katala Foundation, since 2006 through pp. 18–22; and refer to Conservation evaluate the magnitude of each factor the PCCP. Under this MOA, an intensive Status for the Philippine Cockatoo that may be affecting a species, and, in species conservation program has been section above). An increase in the this case, we did not find evidence that underway to conserve this species and population is occurring in some areas any disease or predator rises to the level its habitat. The PCCP accomplishes its where it is protected, such as on Rasa of a threat that is affecting this species mission through intense local Island, but in other areas where in the wild. After conducting a literature management of the species. Some protections are not robust, the search (Johnson et al. 1986, pp. 813– aspects of the conservation program are population is declining (Widmann et al. 815; Latimer et al. 1992, pp. 165–168; de to educate local communities about the 2010a, p. 32). Although there are five Kloet 2004, pp. 2393–2412; benefits of conserving endemic wildlife, areas designated as being ‘‘protected,’’ Tomaszewski et al. 2006, pp. 536–544), protect and restore nesting sites and under Philippine law, the levels of we found no indication that disease or habitat, conduct research, and protection vary. In 2006, Rasa Island, predation is a threat to the Philippine reintroduce the species into the wild the area containing the densest cockatoo in the wild. Although (Widmann et al. 2010, p. 22). population of the Philippine cockatoo, individual Philippine cockatoos may be As a protected species (DENR 2010b, was declared a wildlife sanctuary by subject to occasional infections or p. 2), under the Republic Act No. 9147, President Arroyo (Widmann 2006, p. 1). predation, there is no evidence that certain activities such as capture and The protected area consists of 1,983 ha either of these is occurring at a level that trade of live wildlife are prohibited. (4,900 ac). While this area is fairly well may affect the status of the species as a Republic Act No. 9147 provides for protected and monitored, effective whole to the extent that it is considered fines and penalties for prohibited acts. reserve management here is hampered a threat to the species. Therefore, we However, within the Philippines, the by a shortage of staff, technical find that the Philippine cockatoo is not laws are generally ignored and only expertise, and financial support threatened due to disease or predation. poorly enforced (Galang 2004, pp. 12– (Widmann 2010, pers. comm.). In 17; Laurance 2007, p. 1544; Rose 2008, addition, the remoteness of protected Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing p. 232). areas makes enforcement of activities Regulatory Mechanisms Additional protections exist under the such as poaching and illegal logging Several regulatory mechanisms are in Philippines’ Executive Order No. 247, difficult. Overall, the management of place at the national and local levels which protects the rights of local people protected areas is insufficient. For that serve to conserve this species and with respect to the use of natural example, in 2010, despite management the habitat on which it depends; resources (http://www.elaw.gov, of the species, 15 hatchlings died and 17 however, the mechanisms are accessed January 4, 2011). This eggs did not hatch on Rasa Island during ineffective at adequately protecting the Executive Order mandates that an extreme weather event (refer to Philippine cockatoo. We find that CITES prospecting of biological and genetic Factor E discussion) (Widmann et al. effectively protects the species from resources shall be allowed within the 2010a, p. 38). Even in areas such as unsustainable legal international trade. ancestral lands and domains of Narra that are monitored by wardens, Factors hampering the regulatory indigenous cultural communities only poaching occurs (Widmann et al. 2010a, mechanisms in place include with the prior informed consent of such p. 6). The protections in place for this remoteness of protected areas, poverty communities. Involving local tribal species are ultimately ineffective at that causes locals to unsustainably use communities adds an additional reducing the threats to this species. This this species’ habitat or to poach, and the conservation measure. For example, the species resides in other areas that are lack of resources to adequately enforce Batak tribe (Boussekey 2000, p. 144) in not protected; and laws and regulations (Galang 2004, p. northern Palawan has shown interest in (see Factor A discussion above) and 17; Laurance 2007, p. 1544; Palawan participating in wildlife conservation. poaching for the pet trade (see Factor B Council for Sustainable Development The protection of endemic natural discussion above) still occur even in (PCSD) 2007, p. 1–3). These are resources has been demonstrated to protected zones. discussed below. benefit native tribes and local The Philippine cockatoo is carefully communities near sites that have unique monitored and managed in some, but Domestic Regulatory Mechanisms features (Widmann et al. 2010b, p. 36). not all, areas where it exists. The In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Locals may be recruited as wardens, or species exists in five protected areas: (1) efforts were already underway to protect these areas can be developed for Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary (Narra, the Philippine cockatoo (Boussekey ecotourism. However, in this case, it is Palawan), (2) Puerto Princesa 2000, p. 140; Galang 2004, p. 17). In likely that only around 300 to 400 Subterranean River National Park

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(Palawan), (3) Omoi and Manambaling this species, and has recently been numbers. Therefore, we find that, Cockatoo Reserves in Dumaran targeted by PCCP for protection of the although the Philippines has a good (Dumaran, Palawan), (4) Mt. Philippine cockatoo. A grant under the legal framework to manage wildlife and Mantalingahan Protected Landscape U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s their habitats, actual implementation of (CMRPA) in Rizal, Palawan, and (5) Wildlife Without Borders, Critically its laws and regulatory mechanisms is Samar Island Natural Park. Each Endangered Species Conservation Fund, inadequate to reduce the threats to the protected area in Palawan has its own for the Pandanan project was approved Philippine cockatoo. unique protections in place and in September 2009 (Widmann et al. CITES legislation to protect the species and its 2010, p. 5). This island has the potential habitat (Widmann and Widmann 2010, for the species to make a good recovery The evaluation of the effectiveness of pers. comm.). because there is excellent forest cover CITES as a regulatory mechanism is Although there are five areas due in part to the protections provided cross-referenced under Factor B, as designated as being ‘‘protected,’’ the by the Jewelmer Corporation. This CITES regulates international trade of levels of protection vary. An increase in company holds a marine mining wildlife. The Treaty requires CITES the population is occurring in some concession in the area of Pandanan. Due Parties to have in place adequate areas, but in other areas where to this concession, no human legislation for its implementation. protections are not as robust, the inhabitants are legally allowed on Through Resolution Conf. 8.4 (Rev. population is declining, in part due to Pandanan Island. In January 2010, PCCP CoP15), the Parties to CITES adopted a poaching. The PCCP, the Philippine obtained formal permission from the process, termed the National Legislation government, and individuals concerned Palawan Council for Sustainable Project, to evaluate whether Parties have with the conservation of this species Development (PCSD) to conduct adequate domestic legislation to have actively worked to protect the conservation efforts on the island successfully implement the Treaty. In Philippine cockatoo since 1998. The (Widmann et al. 2010b, p. 5). Poaching reviewing a country’s national PCCP is a nonprofit organization still needs to be abated, but PCCP has legislation, the CITES Secretariat dedicated to the conservation of wild been working to establish a local evaluates factors such as whether a Philippine cockatoos. Its goals are to warden program (Widmann et al. 2010a, Party’s domestic laws designate the teach the principles and value of p. 50) on the island to address this responsible Scientific and Management conservation, work to rehabilitate issue. Security has recently improved in Authorities, prohibit trade contrary to Philippine cockatoos back into the wild, the area where a viable cockatoo the requirements of the Convention, and conduct scientific research. As of population has been confirmed, but the have penalty provisions in place for 2000, the local communities that live species is still threatened by poaching illegal trade, and provide for seizure of within the range of this species have (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 15). The specimens that are illegally traded or been aware that it is illegal to capture PCCP indicates that it is likely that with possessed. The Philippines has enacted or trade this species (Boussekey 2000, p. the warden program in place, they can domestic legislation to implement 143). eliminate or reduce poaching. CITES. That legislation is currently At most sites where a viable As resources allow, other protections being reviewed by the Secretariat to population appears to exist, PCCP is and conservation actions are in place for determine if it meets all the necessary actively managing this species to try to this species. On Dumaran, Rizal, and criteria (CITES 2011a). increase the populations. For example, Patnanungan Islands, Philippine With respect to international trade, artificial nest boxes for the Philippine cockatoo activity is observed through we found CITES to be an adequate cockatoo were installed on Rasa Island wardens monitoring, and patrols occur existing regulatory mechanism for this and the mainland (Palawan) (Widmann at protected areas and roost sites. species (see our analysis under Factor B and Widmann 2008, p. 27). Recovery of Monitoring of the population trend on for legal trade). See our analysis for the the Philippine cockatoo on Rasa Island Rasa and Dumaran Islands is done crimson shining parrot for additional has been fairly effective, where nest- through counting individuals at discussion on how we made this guarding by local people has virtually traditional roost sites. Due to both a lack determination. As discussed under stopped poaching (Boussekey, pers. of funding and logistics, not all Factor B, very few Philippine cockatoos comm. in Cahill et al. 2006, p. 166). Philippine cockatoo sites are actively have been legally exported from the Breeding success on Rasa Island has monitored and managed. This is Philippines since 2000. One operation been high (averaging 2.6 hatchlings per primarily because it is more efficient to in the Philippines is registered to export nest in 2002, for example). On this focus resources in the Palawan Islands captive-bred specimens of this species island, a population of approximately Region where the Philippine cockatoo for commercial purposes and appears to 20 birds increased four-fold between has a viable population. be adequately monitored and regulated. 1998 and 2003 (Boussekey, pers. comm. In summary, while laws to protect Based on the information available, in Cahill et al. 2006, p. 166; Widmann this species are in place, enforcement CITES and the Government of the et al. 2010). In Patnanungan, Polillo often is severely lacking or difficult, Philippines have effectively controlled Islands, the first artificial nest box for given the many islands that make up the legal international trade of this species. the Philippine cockatoo was installed in Philippines and considering that illegal November 2009 (Widmann et al. 2010, activities in many cases remain socially Summary of Factor D p. 13), and reforestation efforts are acceptable at the local level. Illegal In summary, we find that the occurring. These activities are logging is considered a leading cause of Government of the Philippines appears somewhat effective but slow because the forest degradation in the Philippines to have controlled legal international protection efforts are not able to (Galang 2004, pp. 12–17; Laurance 2007, trade through CITES (see discussion completely combat the negative factors p. 1544; Rose 2008, p. 232). Laws and under Factor B above). With respect to such as poaching and selective logging regulations are frequently ignored, trade, the existing domestic regulatory that affect this species in many cases. which further reduces the effectiveness mechanisms within the Philippines, as Recent efforts are being focused on of regulatory mechanisms (Galang 2004, implemented, are inadequate to reduce Pandanan Island (south of Palawan pp. 12–17), and this species continues or remove the current threats to the Island), which has excellent habitat for to suffer a decline in population Philippine cockatoo in the wild based

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on reports of poaching. As discussed (Widmann et al. 2001, pp. 139–140). Small and Declining Population under Factor B above, uncontrolled Although nest flooding may occur The Philippine cockatoo has a illegal domestic trade continues to occasionally, the PCCP indicates that it contracted geographic range and a adversely impact the Philippine is not a common occurrence, and we do small, rapidly declining population, cockatoo. Measures in place via the not consider this to be a threat to the primarily due to poaching. There are MOA and the PCCP provide some species. between 450 and 1,245 individuals left protection to the Philippine cockatoo. have been observed to attack remaining in the wild, distributed on Through the MOA, this species is cockatoos. In 2005, on Patnanungan eight islands (BLI 2011, p. 1). In many carefully monitored and managed in key Island, bees were documented attacking cases, the Philippine cockatoo is now areas where the species has a good Philippine cockatoos (Widmann et al. geographically isolated from other chance of recovery, particularly in the 2007a, pp. 76–77, 79). These cockatoos populations. Additionally, because it is Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary (Narra, were unable to nest due to the close an island species that generally mates Palawan). Despite efforts, management proximity of a beehive. The extent of for life and is long-lived, it is extremely of protected areas encompassing this competition with bees for nesting sites vulnerable to localized . species’ habitat is hindered due to the is not clear. Philippine cockatoos have Species with small populations are remoteness of protected areas, staff been monitored for many years, and this significantly influenced by individual shortages, lack of technical expertise, is the only known report of nest site birth and death rates (Gilpin and Soule´ and lack of funding; this is competition with bees. Therefore, it 1986, p. 27), immigration and acknowledged by the local NGO does not appear to be a significant factor emigration rates, and changes in (Widmann et al. 2010a). affecting this species. Even with government controls, population sex ratios. Natural variation Other factors affecting the species poaching of cockatoos is relatively in survival and reproductive success of include food shortages due to drought common in areas that are not protected. individuals and chance disequilibrium and the lack of suitable nesting cavities In addition, laws and regulations are of sex ratios may act in concert to (Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 25). frequently ignored, in part due to the negatively affect reproduction (Gilpin The lack of suitable nesting sites in difficulty in monitoring and and Soule´ 1986, p. 27). general is addressed under Factor A. In enforcement throughout the multitude Prior to the 1980s, the Philippine 2005, this species suffered from of islands in the Philippines. As cockatoo was common throughout the starvation on Rasa Island due to a food discussed under Factors A and B above, Philippines (Boussekey 2000, p. 138; ˜ we found that poaching, logging, and shortage during an El Nino drought Cameron 2007, p. 34). Its existing conversion of forests to agriculture and year. However, several fledglings were populations are extremely localized due plantations are threats to the Philippine rescued. Of these, 10 developed to habitat loss and its preference for cockatoo. Despite regulatory normally and were subsequently lowland primary and secondary forest, mechanisms in place, illegal logging released (Widmann and Widmann 2008, which is also preferred human habitat. continues to be a leading cause of forest p. 25). Additional factors affecting the PCCP suggests that a rapid population degradation in the Philippines species include the lack of suitable reduction may occur in the future based (Laurance 2007, pp. 1544–1555; Rose nesting cavities (in large, decayed trees) on low recruitment in recent years, 2008, p. 231). There is no information and possibly the lack of adequate food especially for unprotected populations available to suggest these threats will sources (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 6). (Widmann 2011a, pers. comm.). In the change in the foreseeable future; Because this species has specific Rizal (South Palawan) area, which was therefore, we find that the existing nutrition and habitat requirements, it protected only recently, there are no regulatory mechanisms, as was suggested that Rasa Island may be indications of recovery. Only one implemented, are inadequate to reduce at carrying capacity due to limited breeding pair exists outside of this or remove the current threats to the habitat and food availability (Widmann cockatoo reserve, and this area was Philippine cockatoo. and Widmann 2008, p. 25). Because poached within the past 2 years. Rasa Island is very small, with only 1.75 Breeding here did not occur in the Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade km2 (0.6 mi2) of the island being coastal 2009–2010 season. Since all nests have Factors Affecting the Continued and mangrove forest, its suitable habitat been systematically poached in this area Existence of the Species is limited. As of 2009, Rasa Island had over many years, extinction of this Various other factors have been cited 64 nest trees, and as of 2010, there were population might occur suddenly due to as being potential threats to this species. 280 individual Philippine cockatoos on lack of reproduction success. This is In addition to poaching, trapping, and this island. There was a second partly a consequence of mating deforestation (Boussekey 2000, p. 138) starvation event in 2010 (Widmann et characteristics of this species: It is long- (refer to the discussions under Factors A al. 2010a, p. 6). At this time, we are lived and generally mates for life. At and B, above), hunting (to protect unable to determine if limited food least two birds persist inside the crops), harassment by bees, and nest availability on this island and starvation protected area, but they have not bred flooding have been observed to affect due to drought are threats; however, the in the past 4 years (Widmann 2011a, this species (Widmann et al. 2001, pp. Rasa Island population is carefully pers. comm.). 139–140; Widmann et al. 2007a, pp. 76– monitored by the PCCP, and they Small, isolated populations of wildlife 77, 79). Because this species has been intervene and manage the species if species such as the Philippine cockatoo viewed as an agricultural pest, it was needed. Although in some years limited that have gone through a reduction in often killed if it was thought to be food availability may be a concern, we population numbers can be susceptible consuming crops (Widmann and do not find that this factor rises to the to demographic and genetic problems Widmann 2008, p. 23). However, there level of a threat to the species. Further, (Shaffer 1981, pp. 130–134). Factors that is no indication that this practice still the lack of suitable nesting cavities is could affect their susceptibility include: occurs. Nest flooding during a being monitored and addressed by the Natural variation in survival and thunderstorm was observed to affect PCCP. At this time, there is no evidence reproductive success of individuals; clutch survival during the 2000–2001 that bees or nest flooding are threats to changes in gene frequencies due to breeding season on Rasa Island the species. genetic drift; diminished genetic

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diversity and associated effects due to particularly when combined with the resources, its remote island habitat, and inbreeding (i.e., inbreeding depression); other threats. by the nature of this species’ life-history dispersal of just a few individuals; a few characteristics (such as the tendency to Summary of Factor E clutch failures; a skewed sex ratio in mate for life and they do not reproduce recruited offspring over just 1 or a few Several other factors were identified until a late age). Efforts to improve the years; and chance mortality of just a few as affecting the success of this species habitat of this species (e.g., reproductive-age individuals. These such as harassment by bees, nest reforestation, building of nest boxes) are small, rapidly declining populations are flooding, and starvation. These factors continuing and may improve its habitat also susceptible to natural levels of are a normal occurrence in the ecology and population numbers. In Polillo, environmental variability and related of this species, and we do not find that Dumaran, and Rasa, the species may ‘‘catastrophic’’ events (e.g., severe these factors significantly affect this slowly increase in population numbers, storms, extreme cold spells, wildfire), species such that they rise to the level but in other areas, the species’ which we refer to as environmental of a threat. However, we find that its population continues to decline. The stochasticity (Dunham et al. 1999, p. 9; small, rapidly declining population, best population estimates of this species Mangel and Tier 1994, p. 612; Young when combined with the other threats were compiled in the early 1990s, at 1994, pp. 410–412). of habitat loss and poaching, is a threat which time the population was Threats to species typically operate to the species throughout its range. estimated to be between 1,000 and 4,000 synergistically. Initial effects of one Finding for the Philippine Cockatoo individuals (Snyder et al. 2000). Experts threat factor can later exacerbate the believe the population is now between We considered the five factors in 450 and 1,245 individuals, and most effects of other threat factors (Gilpin and assessing whether the Philippine Soule´ 1986, pp. 25–26). Any further populations are fairly well monitored cockatoo is endangered or threatened (Widmann et al. 2010); however, fragmentation of populations may likely throughout all of its range. We result in the further removal or dispersal poaching for the domestic pet trade examined the best scientific and continues to be a threat to the species. of individuals. The lack of a sufficient commercial information available number of individuals in a local area or It is unlikely that this species’ rapidly regarding the past, present, and future declining and small population can a decline in their individual or threats faced by the Philippine collective fitness may also cause a withstand this level of poaching. cockatoo. We reviewed the petition, Therefore, we find overutilization for decline in the population size, despite information available in our files, and the presence of suitable habitat patches. commercial, recreational, scientific, or other available published and educational purposes (Factor B) is a The combined effects of habitat loss unpublished information, and we threat to the Philippine cockatoo. and fragmentation (Factor A) and threats consulted with recognized Philippine We found no evidence that diseases associated with small, declining, and cockatoo experts and local and significantly affect the wild Philippine isolated populations (Factor E) on a international NGOs. cockatoo population. Other avian species’ population are referred to as The primary factors affecting the species, particularly cockatoo species, patch dynamics. Patch dynamics can Philippine cockatoo include habitat loss are susceptible to avian diseases, but have profound effects on fragmented and habitat degradation and poaching there was no evidence that disease populations and can potentially reduce for the pet trade. Habitat loss associated occurs in the wild to an extent that it a species’ effective population by orders with logging, an expanding human is a threat to this species. Predation was of magnitude (Gilpin and Soule´ 1986, p. population and associated development, not found to affect Philippine cockatoo 31). For example, an increase in habitat conversion of lowland forests to populations. Based on the best available fragmentation can separate populations agriculture are the some of the greatest information, we conclude that disease to the point where individuals can no threats to the continued survival of this and predation (Factor C) are not threats longer disperse and breed among habitat species (BLI 2001, p. 1685; Galang 2004, to the species. patches, causing a shift in the pp. 5–22; Posa et al. 2008, pp. 231–236; The Philippine cockatoo is classified demographic characteristics of a Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 23; as a protected species by the Philippine population and a reduction in genetic Widmann et al. 2010, p. 14). Habitat loss government. The current range of the fitness (Gilpin and Soule´ 1986, p. 31). due to the above activities continues to Philippine cockatoo is much smaller Furthermore, as a species’ status occur; this species’ population is than its historical range (BLI 2010b). continues to decline, often as a result of declining range wide as a result. However, as a result of conservation deterministic forces such as habitat loss Based on the best available efforts by the various entities working to or overutilization, it becomes information, poaching is still occurring, ensure long-term conservation of the increasingly vulnerable to a broad array despite education and public awareness Philippine cockatoo, its range may of other forces. Despite the mitigation campaigns and protections in place at slowly increase, but current efforts are and conservation measures in place, if the national level (Widmann et al. indicating mixed levels of success. this trend continues, its ultimate 2010c., p. 13). Awareness campaigns Despite conservation efforts of various extinction due to one or more stochastic have been conducted on Mindanao, entities, we have determined that events becomes more likely. Given the Palawan, and Polillo Islands (Widmann existing regulatory mechanisms species’ dispersed nature, the fact that it 2010, pers. comm.). On Dumaran Island, continue to be inadequate because is a long-lived species that generally the Katala Pride Campaign has focused habitat loss and poaching are still mates for life, and that the largest on raising awareness among students occurring (Factor D). In summary, we population is approximately 280 and farmers. Trilingual conservation conclude that inadequate regulatory individuals, we find that this factor posters have been distributed mechanisms are a threat to the threatens the continued existence of this throughout the Philippines, and in Philippine cockatoo. species. Based on the best scientific and 1992, a captive-breeding program was This species has a small and rapidly commercial information available, we initiated. This species is being intensely declining population. This species no conclude that based on its small, rapidly managed in some areas, but the longer exists in many of the areas where declining population, the Philippine management and protection of the it occurred historically. This species is cockatoo is at risk of extinction, species is hampered by the lack of in competition with humans for habitat;

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development and related infrastructure forest, which they thought may contain 2010, pers. comm). Now the white take the place of its habitat. Within its more white cockatoos. The white cockatoo is thought to only inhabit current range, where there are few cockatoo was described as being Halmahera and (Wildlife viable populations remaining, the PCCP common in the early 1990s. Survey Conservation Society (WCS) 2010, pers. is managing the species to the best of its work carried out in 1991 and 1992 comm.). The Bacan Island group, also ability; however, the PCCP suggested a population estimate of known as Palau Batjan, is about 16 km acknowledges that this species still between 49,765 and 212,430 birds (10 mi) southwest of Halmahera Island. faces a rapid population reduction in (Lambert 1993a; Snyder et al. 2000, p. Little is known about the status of the the future based on low recruitment in 671; BLI 2010c, p. 1). BLI reported that species other than on Halmahera Island. recent years, especially for unprotected the total population is between 43,000 Due to the lack of information, this populations. When combined with other and 183,000 mature individuals; status review only addresses its status threats, and when considering its however, this population estimate is on Halmahera Island unless otherwise fragmented population, we conclude based on 1993 data (Lambert 1993 in specified. that its small, rapidly declining BLI 2010). Burung Indonesia estimated The Islands are also known as population is a threat to the species that based on surveys conducted in the Moluccas or the Islands, and (Factor E). Due to this species’ 2008 and 2009, there are between 8,629 they are between Sulawesi and New extremely small, declining, and and 48,393 white cockatoos remaining Guinea, below the Philippines. The fragmented population and due to the in the wild (Burung Indonesia 2010, white cockatoo, like most cockatoos, is existing threats (Factors A, B, D, and E), pers. comm.) on Halmahera Island. a resident (nonmigratory) species, but it is currently in danger of extinction. cockatoos are strong fliers, and they will Despite the conservation measures in Distribution, Habitat, Biology likely travel to nearby islands in search place, this species faces severe threats, While the exact life span is unknown, of habitat or food, if it is not readily and the population trend for this species reports of the white cockatoo’s lifespan available. The highest densities of this continues to decline. Based on our vary between 20 and 50 years in species occur in primary (old-growth) review of the best available scientific captivity (Lambert 1993, p. 147; Jordan forest (BLI 2009; Burung International and commercial information pertaining 2010, pers. comm.). Wild-caught birds 2011), but the species seems to tolerate to the five factors, we find that the have been reported not to breed until some habitat modification. White Philippine cockatoo is in danger of they are 6 years old. The highest cockatoos inhabit mangroves, extinction (endangered) throughout all productive period for the white plantations (including coconut), and of its range. We do not find that the cockatoo is between 6 and 20 years agricultural land (BLI 2010c). This effects of current threats acting on the (Jordan 2010, pers. comm.). However, species requires large trees for nesting species are likely to be sufficiently some pairs have been recorded to breed and roosting, is often observed feeding ameliorated in the foreseeable future. well into their thirties, and a few in large flocks, and eats seeds, fruit, and These threats are consistent throughout exceptions have been reported with insects. Their preferred nesting holes its range. Therefore, we find that listing pairs or individuals that have were observed to be situated at points the Philippine cockatoo as endangered reproduced into their forties or fifties where large branches had broken off the is warranted throughout its range, and (Lambert 1993, p. 147). Clutch-size of main trunk (Lambert 1993, p. 146). we propose to list the Philippine white cockatoos in captivity is reported Halmahera (also known as Jilolo or cockatoo as endangered under the ESA. to be 2 to 3 eggs per season, and Gilolo Island) is the largest island in the incubation takes 25 to 28 days; nestlings province, and is 17,780 Species Information reside in the nest approximately 90 days km2 (6,865 mi2) in size. Its annual C. White cockatoo (Cacatua alba) before fledging (Cameron 2007, p. 140). precipitation is 2,000 to 3,000 mm (79 Both parents share responsibility for to 118 in). Halmahera, a four-pronged Taxonomy and Species Description raising chicks, and the species is island, is considered to be a biodiversity The white cockatoo is also known as thought to be monogamous for life. hotspot (Myers et al. 2000 in Setiadi et the umbrella cockatoo. ITIS, CITES, and The white cockatoo is endemic to a al. 2010, p. 560). North Maluku BirdLife International recognize the few islands in North Maluku, Indonesia, province consists of eight provincial species as Cacatua alba (BLI 2010). and it inhabits primary, logged, and districts: North Halmahera, West Therefore, we accept the species as C. secondary forests possibly up to 900 m Halmahera, East Halmahera, Central alba. The white cockatoo is completely (2,953 ft) (IUCN 2008h). It is not thought Halmahera, South Halmahera, white except for the underside of its to inhabit forests on ultra basic rock Municipality, City and Islands, wings and tail, which are pale yellow. (BLI 2001, p. 1674). This species is and Sula Islands. In North Halmahera, It has a long, backward-curving white believed to occur in three protected the number of districts on the island has crest on its head. Its bill is grey-black, areas: Gunung Sibela Strict Nature recently increased to 22, and the and it has a white bare eye-ring. The Reserve on Bacan Island (although this number of villages has increased from bird has either yellowish-white or site is threatened by agricultural 174 to 260. The human population in slightly grey-blue legs. encroachment and prospecting), Maluku Province in 2010 was estimated and Aketajawe Nature Reserve and the to be 1,531,402 (Badan Pusat Statistik Population Estimates Lalobata Protected Forest (ALNP), both Provinsi Maluku 2010). Aketajawe- Population estimates for the white on Halmahera Island (BLI 2010). Lolobata National Park, established in cockatoo vary, in part due to the Historically, its range has been the 2004, was the first national park remoteness of the islands where this islands of Halmahera, Bacan, Ternate, established in North Maluku species exists. Population estimates Tidore, Kasiruta and Mandiole in North (Keputusan Menteri Kehutanan No. prior to 2000 indicated that the Lalobata Maluku (Snyder et al. 2000, p. 67; BLI SK.397/MenHut-II/2004), and is protected area on Halmahera Island 2010c). ALNP consists of approximately described as being one of the most contained between 28,500 and 42,900 167,300 hectares (413,407 acres) of pristine and unvisited areas in all of white cockatoos (MacKinnon et al. primary and secondary forest. This total Indonesia. 1995; Snyder et al. 2000, p. 67), area represents 7.5 percent of Bacan, a smaller island to the although they did not survey lowland Halmahera Island (Burung International southwest of Halmahera, is also

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inhabited by the white cockatoo, 8,630 to 48,393 individuals. This factor D). The purpose of the WBCA is although very little is known about the estimate may be optimistic based, in to promote the conservation of exotic status of the species here. This remote, part, on the studies described above birds and to ensure that international sparsely populated island is not well (Marsden 1999, pp. 377–390; Royle and trade involving the United States does known. It is 1,900 km2 (733 mi2) in area Nichols 2003, p. 777; Pollock 2006, p. not harm exotic birds. Although there is and still contains relatively undisturbed 882). In addition, because the survey a national ban against harvest for the forests. A recent human population extrapolated the population density for white cockatoo, the quota is not estimate is between 13,000 and 59,000 the surrounding area outside of the effective at eliminating poaching in the individuals, and the majority resides on Aketajawe block (which contains less wild. Cockatoos are still poached and the west side of the island, in the capital suitable habitat for the species and is smuggled into local markets illegally () and nearby villages. The more accessible to poachers) from the (ProFauna Indonesia 2008, pp. 1–9; current number of white cockatoos on estimated density within the Aketajawe ProFauna 2010). The white cockatoo is the island is unknown. Reports from Nature Reserve (which contains the not listed as a protected species by the locals indicated that the species had preferred habitat for the species and is Indonesian Republic Forestry Ministry declined on Bacan due to trapping less accessible to poachers), the density (WCS 2010, pers. comm.). between the 1970s and 1980s (Lambert levels outside of the Aketajawe Nature Information available suggests that a 1993, p. 146). Surveys conducted here Reserve may be an overestimate. few local protections are in fairly in 1985 found only 76 white cockatoos. Assuming that there were anywhere preliminary stages but occurring. In 1991, the population on Bacan and its between 8,629 and 48,393 individuals Existence of the Aketajawe-Lolobata satellite islands was estimated to be on Halmahera in 2009 and there was an National Park on Halmahera may serve 7,220 to 29,300 white cockatoos estimated 49,765 to 212,430 individuals to reduce hunting pressure and habitat (Lambert 1993a, b), but this may be an in 1992, this trend in population loss if game wardens are monitoring the overestimate of the population size estimates indicates a decrease in the park. Also on Halmahera, some of the based on the survey methods used population. This decrease is extremely foreign-owned mining operations are (Gilardi 2011, pers. comm.). likely based on the negative effects of considering their environmental impact Accuracy of survey methodologies habitat loss and poaching that are (see Factor A discussion on mining). varies (Thomas 1996, pp. 49–58; Pollack commonly known to occur on this Very few private or nongovernmental 2006, p. 882; Thomas et al. 2009, pp. 5– island. organizations (NGOs) operate in the 14), and there are limits to how much Recent local anecdotal accounts of area, in part due to the lack of funding confidence we can place in various this species’ population also vary. One available. Burung Indonesia (http:// population surveys (Royle and Nichols recent observation was that the www.burung.org) does some work in 2003). One researcher pointed out that population of white cockatoos was this area, mostly in relation to the differing methodologies can result in thought to be ‘‘very sparse’’ (WCS 2010, national park, and there is another local differences in at least an order of pers. comm.) and rapidly declining (BLI NGO, Konservasi Alam Maluku Utara magnitude. In situations where species 2010c, p. 1). Populations were (KAMU), that is working to try to are rare or have small populations, the conversely described as still being protect this species (Wildlife number of observations made per survey relatively widespread across Halmahera Conservation Society (WCS) 2010, pers. may be very small and the number of Island, and birds were occasionally comm.). There may be carbon-funded sites limited, and, therefore, estimates observed in flocks (WCS 2010, pers. forest protection projects starting in the and projections may not be accurate comm.). In November 2010, this species area that also may convey protection (Marsden 1999, pp. 377–390; Pollack was observed daily, with flocks up to 23 measures, but none is operating yet. 2006, p. 891). In some areas, suitable birds observed during a recent 5-day habitat may have been recently trip to Halmahera (WCS 2010, pers. Evaluation of Factors Affecting the disturbed due to habitat modification comm.). However, local people consider White Cockatoo and infrastructure development. As a them to have declined from former Factor A. The Present or Threatened result, species’ breeding, nesting, and population levels. Destruction, Modification, or We have no recent estimate of the forage habitat have subsequently been Curtailment of the Species’ Habitat or population on Bacan Island. Although destroyed, and the birds are dispersing. Range It may appear as though the population the last estimate, in 1993, was between is larger than it actually is due to 7,220 to 29,300 individuals on Bacan It is commonly accepted that sightings in new locations or the Island, a 1985 survey only found 76 deforestation and habitat loss is a perception that the species is more cockatoos. We are unsure of the significant problem in Indonesia common because it has been displaced population trend. Further, in 1993, there (Galang 2004, p. 14; Laurance 2007, p. from its original habitat. were reported to be over 100 people 1544; BLI 2010k, p. 1). Indonesia In the case of white cockatoos, the who regularly trapped parrots on Bacan, consists of 17,508 islands and 33 population estimate may not be accurate and this practice was a major source of provinces. It is a rapidly developing based on the survey methodology used income (Lambert 1993, p. 155). country, with a population of 230 and the inferences made. A recent Poaching is a common practice in million (United Nations 2009, p. 11). It survey indicated that the population Indonesia, and it likely still occurs with is the world’s fourth most populous density estimation for this species in the regularity on Bacan Island. country (United Nations 2009, p. 11). Aketajawe block was between 1.6 and Countries with the highest human 8.9 individuals per km2 (Burung 2011, Conservation Status for the White population growth rates tend to have the pp. 1–5). From this survey, a projection Cockatoo highest rates of deforestation as well was made to the surrounding area of The white cockatoo has been listed in (Laurance 2007, p. 1545). As available 5,462 km2 (2,109 mi2) of the remaining Appendix II of CITES since 1981. It is land becomes more scarce, companies natural forest area in the vicinity of the listed on the 2010 IUCN Red list as and humans move towards more remote national park. Based on this projection, vulnerable. It is also protected in the areas in search of resources (BLI 2008, Burung estimated the population in the U.S. by the WBCA (refer to discussion p. 100). Human settlements and western Halmahera natural forests was under the Crimson Shining Parrot, plantations are typically located in

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lowland coastal areas, which is the International Forestry Research selective logging targets mature trees, it white cockatoo’s preferred habitat estimated that between 55 and 75 can have a disproportionate impact on (Smiet 1985, pp. 181, 183). The habitat percent of logging in Indonesia is illegal hole-nesters, such as cockatoos, because required by the white cockatoo has been (http://www.cifor.cgiar.org, accessed fewer nest sites remain (BLI 2008k, p. impacted by activities such as December 10, 2010). Jepson and Ladle 6). conversion of its habitat to uses such as (2005, pp. 442–448) concluded that Although almost 80 percent of its development of towns, mining, and illegal logging was becoming semi-legal original forest is still intact, the logging (particularly illegal logging, and the de facto arrangement for Halmahera Rain Forests ecoregion which generally fails to use sustainable governing Indonesia’s forests. Illegal (including Bacan Island) still faces logging practices) (Lambert 1993, p. logging is pervasive, and the Indonesian habitat deforestation threats. As the 146). Pressure on the islands’ resources government has been unable to enforce forests are lost on other Indonesian is increasing (http://www.indonesia- protected forest boundaries (Barr 2001, islands, there is an increasing potential tourism.com/north-maluku/ p. 40; Laurance 2007, pp. 1544–1547). for forestry operations to move to halmahera_history.html), in part from Illegal logging activities include: Halmahera and other islands with large, the increase in human population on Overharvesting beyond legal and desirable trees. Despite Presidential the island, a demand for more resources sustainable quotas, harvesting trees from Instruction No. 4/2005 to eradicate such as biofuel and agriculture, and to steep slopes and riparian habitat, illegal illegal logging in forest areas and a lesser extent, an increase in timber harvest and land encroachment distribution of illegally cut timber ecotourism. Historically, 75 percent of in conservation areas and protected throughout Indonesia (FAOLEX 2009, p. the population on Halmahera has forests, and falsification of documents. 1), illegal logging continues (refer to depended on farming or fishing for their Overexploitation of the forests and Factor D discussion). Contributing livelihood, but this is changing as illegal logging are driven by the wood- factors include poor forest management investors and human development processing industry, which is reported practices, rapid decentralization of move to the island. to consume at least six times the government, abuse of local political Part of the Indonesian government’s officially allowed harvest (Rhee et al. powers, complicity of the military and long-term planning strategy is to 2004, p. xvii, chap. 6, p. 8). Illegal police in some areas of the country, develop more efficient agriculture to logging in national parks is reported inconsistent law enforcement, and help alleviate poverty. For example, the with regularity, and the people involved dwindling power of the central government of Indonesia has sold land have in the past been armed and government (USAID 2004, pp. 3, 9; to a company called the Sustainable described as being ruthless (Whitten et Laurence 2007, p. 1544). Pacific Corporation (SPC), which al. 2001, p. 2). Although illegal logging still occurs, purchased 300,000 ha (750,000 ac) of the Indonesian government is actively land to be used for organic agriculture Selective logging is the primary legal working to conserve its resources. The and livestock breeding, agricultural method used for the extraction of timber year 2011 was declared the International packing houses, warehouses, tourism, in Indonesia (BLI 2008k, p. 6). In Year of Forests. Many countries, and a sea port (http://www.associated selective logging, the most valuable including Indonesia, are working content.com/article/2412420/ trees from a forest are commercially towards reducing emissions from halmahera_a_world_sustainable_ extracted (Johns 1988, p. 31), and the deforestation and forest degradation development.html?cat=3 and http:// forest is left to regenerate naturally or (termed REDD) (Ministry of Forestry of worldteakplantation.itrademarket.com/ with some management until being the Republic of Indonesia 2008, 185 profile/sustainable-pacific-corp.htm, subsequently logged again. Johns (1988, pp.). Despite these efforts, illegal logging accessed February 23, 2011). An p. 31), studying a West Malaysian still occurs within this species’ range. dipterocarp forest, found that essential part of this process is Mining infrastructure development, primarily mechanized selective logging in tropical the improvement of roads, which can rain forests, which usually removes a Mining and its associated impacts is lead to further illegal logging and land small percentage of timber trees, caused a fairly new factor affecting this species. clearance, and also facilitates bird severe incidental damage. The Several companies have mining rights trapping (poaching). This initiative will extraction of 3 percent of trees in the Maluku area, particularly on likely convert land that is currently destroyed 51 percent of the forest. He Halmahera (WCS 2010, pers. comm.). suitable white cockatoo habitat into concluded that this type of logging PT Antam, the largest mining company land for other uses that are no longer reduced the availability of food sources in Indonesia, currently operates three suitable for this species, such as for frugivores (fruit-eaters). Loggers nickel mines on the northeast prong of Jatropha curcas plantations, which are occasionally find parrots, including Halmahera (PT Antam 2009). Another discussed below. Cacatua alba, in commercially valuable mining company, PT Nusa Halmahera trees that they fell, such as Anisoptera Mineral (NHM), is a joint venture Logging (locally known as mersawa) in the company between Newcrest Mining of Illegal logging is considered to be a Dipterocarpaceae family. The white Australia and PT Antam Tbk, an leading cause of forest degradation in cockatoo has been observed in Indonesian-owned company. They have Indonesia (Rhee et al. 2004, chap. 6, p. commercially valuable trees such as an exploration license for Bacan and 7). Between 2000 and 2005, Indonesia’s Anisoptera and Canarium species nearby islands to look for gold and other forest cover declined by more than (kenari or kiharpan) (Lambert 1993, p. minerals. A third mining company has 90,000 km2 (34,740 mi2). Unsustainable 146). The most recent BLI assessment a license to mine nickel near Ake Tajawi logging practices that destroy the forest stated that much of the habitat for the on Halmahera (WWF 2010a). canopy also reduce habitat available to species was still intact, and even where Two gold mines have been in the white cockatoo (Lusli 2008, p. 22). degraded, the species used degraded operation on Halmahera (Newcrest Logging creates a network of roads, areas. This was confirmed by WCS, Mining 2010, p. 1). The Gosowong mine which can lead to secondary problems which indicated that the islands of was an open-pit, cyanide-leach mine (BLI 2008k, p. 6), such as providing Halmahera and Bacan still have that operated from 1999 to 2002, and is access for poachers. The Center for extensive forest cover; however, as now closed. The Toguraci mine began

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operation in 2004. Toguraci is located 2 Biofuel Production 2007, p. 1544). Lowland areas that offer km (1.2 mi) southwest of the original Indonesia is investing in the planting vital habitat for Indonesia’s cockatoos Gosowong pit mine. This mining of Jatropha curcas trees and palm oil have been the most severely impacted operation is operated by a joint venture (Elaeis guineesis) (Department for (Cameron 2007, p. 177; Vetter 2009, p. company, Pt Nusa Halmahera Minerals Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 4). As islands become more inhabited (PTNHM) and PT Aneka Tambang. United Kingdom 2008, pp. xvii, 47, 64, and deforested, humans move to other Development of this mine began in July 65). Rapid expansion of biofuel islands that contain available resources 2003, after approval of a feasibility plantations has led to intense (Laurance 2007, p. 1544). Cockatoos are highly impacted by study and environmental impact international concern about wide-scale selective logging of primary forests. statement by the Indonesian Minister of environmental impacts. On Halmahera, Selective logging, which targets mature Mines. Actual mining of ore and the at least 500 hectares (3,750 acres) have first gold production began in February trees, has a negative impact on cavity- been allotted for cultivating the Jatropha nesters such as the white cockatoo. 2004. This mine has been the subject of tree (Consulate General of the Republic conflict between local residents and the Research found that the abundance of of Indonesia 2006, pp. 5–6). Many cockatoos is positively related to the mining company. Between October and industries, such as the air transportation December 2003, several illegal miners density of its favored nesting trees (large industry, are considering the use of fuel trees that would be impacted by occupied the Toguraci mine site. from Jatropha as a biofuel source, and it Additionally, the mine is located in a logging), especially since reduced- is also being encouraged as a impact logging techniques are rarely forested area that, according to local mechanism for carbon credits (http:// residents, is protected under Indonesian applied. Once the primary forest is www.jatrophabiodiesel.org, http:// logged, experience on other nearby law, and, therefore, mining operations www.jatrophaworld.org, http:// should not be allowed. The current Indonesian islands shows that the www.jatropha-alliance.org). This oil has secondary forest is generally converted operating status of the Toguraci mine is been reported to produce energy similar unclear; however, local NGOs indicate to other uses or logged again rather than to diesel fuel. Although this species may being allowed to return to primary that mining on Halmahera does affect yield 4 times as much fuel per hectare the white cockatoo (Vetter 2009, pp. 2, forest. Although cockatoos may as soybeans, and possibly 10 times that continue to inhabit secondary forests, 14, 15; WCS 2010, pers. comm.). Mining of corn, it requires 5 times more water activities can affect the white cockatoo’s the population will be at a substantially to produce than corn. It is also reported lower number. Additionally, species are habitat either directly or indirectly, to be desirable to developing countries through pressures such as illegal often found in secondary forest or because its carbon emissions footprint is recently altered forest habitat; however, poaching or human encroachment and thought to be relatively small when habitat disturbance. this habitat tends to be marginal, and burned. the effects on the species’ population Yet another mining company, PT Conversion of land to monocultures may not be evident. The trend of high Weda Bay Nickel, proposed a nickel and destroys white cockatoo habitat. loss of primary forests and degradation cobalt mining project in 2009 on the Monocultures are generally not suitable of secondary forests is a concern, in part island and has submitted an habitat for wildlife. White cockatoos because little is known about the environmental monitoring plan (PT require large trees, which provide large reproductive ecology of white cockatoos Weda Bay Nickel 2009, 204 pp.; Cardiff enough nesting cavity sites, and in the wild, including breeding success 2010, pp. 1–14). The footprint of the Jatropha curcas trees require many in mature forests versus secondary mining operation appears to be within years to reach a size that would be forests, and whether this species of the boundaries of Aketajawe-Lolobata suitable for nesting. This will likely also cockatoo will survive in degraded National Park (Vetter 2009, p. 19; have a negative impact on this species’ forests in the long term. Cardiff 2010, p. 1), which could have suitable habitat due to road building, In summary, habitat modification and significant detrimental effects on infrastructure development, other deforestation activities, such as Halmahera’s wildlife, including the construction (Vetter 2009, pp. 1–10). conversion of primary or secondary white cockatoo. A review of the Additionally, because there is currently forests to exotic tree plantations for proposed mining project indicated that no effective enforcement body to biofuel production, agriculture, and it would likely destroy between 4,000 monitor sustainable land development human habitat, combined with selective and 11,000 hectares (9,884 and 27,182 (also refer to Factor D discussion) on logging and resource extraction acres) of tropical forest, and between Halmahera, these activities threaten (mining), are likely to destroy much of 2,000 and 6,000 ha (4,942 and 14,826 white cockatoo habitat. Therefore, we the white cockatoo’s habitat (the ac) of protected forested area (Cardiff find that conversion of forests to lowland rain forests of Halmahera) in 2010, pp. 6, 9, 12). The review indicated monocultures for biofuel, particularly the near future. While this species may that mining activities are extremely Jatropha, is a threat to the white be tolerant of secondary-growth forests destructive to this habitat. Based on cockatoo. or other disturbed sites, these areas do deforestation projections, the Summary of Factor A not represent optimal conditions for the population of the white cockatoo is species. Based on these factors, we find projected to decline more than 65 Deforestation affects endemic bird that the present and threatened percent over three generations due to species restricted to single islands more destruction, modification, or deforestation (Vetter 2009, pp. 25, 26, severely than it affects other species curtailment of its habitat is a threat to 51). It is unclear whether this mining (Brooks et al. 1997, p. 392). the continued existence of the white operation will be approved, or if there Monocultures such as exotic tree cockatoo throughout all of its range. will be mitigation measures required; plantations, agriculture, conversion to however, it is clear that the extractable human habitat, resource extraction, Factor B. Overutilization for resources on Halmahera are desirable, agriculture, and logging are forms of Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or and mining will very likely have a deforestation and habitat loss affecting Educational Purposes significant negative impact on this endemic island species such as the The primary threat to white cockatoos species and its habitat. white cockatoo in Indonesia (Laurance is poaching from the wild to meet the

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demand for the pet trade (Jepson and 1,646 (Cahill et al. 2006, p. 162; UNEP– Philippines, it is unclear what occurs to Ladle 2005, p. 442; Defenders 2007, p. WCMC 2010). Discrepancies in the the birds.) Based on ProFauna’s 7; ProFauna 2008; BLI 2010c). It is well UNEP–WCMC Trade Database are investigation, it appears that many of established that illegal collection for the common. For example, the Service the birds being poached from the wild pet trade is a major problem for wild found a report in 2009 of one shipment may be, ‘‘laundered with wild cockatoos birds in Indonesia and is the primary of white cockatoo to the United Arab possibly being described as being of threat to this species (BLI 2003, pp. 1– Emirates (UAE) from South Africa that captive-origin.’’ In general, it is difficult, 2; ProFauna 2008, pp. 1–9; ProFauna was reported as 965 by the UAE; if not impossible, to determine the Indonesia 2010, pers. comm.). Bird- however, there was no corresponding source of cockatoos (BLI 2003, p. 1). keeping is a popular pastime in export entry from South Africa (UNEP– ProFauna found that around 9,800 Indonesia, with deep cultural roots WCMC 2010). The largest shipment individual parrots, including white (Jepson and Ladle 2005, p. 442). Parrots from South Africa in 2009 to the UAE cockatoos, are poached every year have been traded for hundreds of years was 614, so we believe it to be a (ProFauna 2008, p. 3). An investigation by people living in the Moluccas. One reporting error. completed in 2008 found that the white report indicated that 17 percent of the Even with government controls, the cockatoo is poached from Maluku and global population was captured for trade commercial hunting of cockatoos (i.e., smuggled into the Philippines in 1991 alone (Lambert 1993, p. 160). As hunting by people to gain at least a (ProFauna 2008; ProFauna Indonesia of 1999, there appeared to be no temporary living from the activity) is 2010, pers. comm.). Parrot poaching enforcement of the zero export quota; relatively common. There is still a took place most frequently in the central cockatoos were widely available in local demand for this species as pets, and part of Halmahera, as well as Bacan, markets. wild-origin birds are less expensive to Obi, and Mandioli (2008, p. 7). The In 2002, an investigation found 500 obtain than captive-bred birds investigation indicated that white cockatoos were caught to supply (Reynolds 2010, pers. comm.; Horsfield approximately 10 percent of the 4,000 the pet trade (ProFauna Indonesia 2010, 2010, pers. comm.). Field research parrots smuggled annually were white pers. comm.). In addition, parrots are an conducted in 2003 through 2005 in a cockatoos. In their investigation, they important part of the Indonesian small village (320 people, 60 found bird poachers in Togawa, for culture, which creates significant households) located in the Manusela example, were able to catch 15 demand for parrots domestically (BLI Valley, Seram, led to the conclusion that individuals of white cockatoo in a week 2008k, p. 10). In a survey on bird- collecting wild parrots, including (ProFauna 2008, p. 3). keeping among households in five major cockatoos, is a way for villagers to During the illegal trade process, many Indonesian cities, Jepson and Ladle supplement their income during times birds die prior to being exported (2005, pp. 442–448) found that as many of hardship (Sasaoka 2009, pers. comm., (Lambert 1993, p. 157; Cameron 2007, p. as 2.5 million birds are kept in the five p. 1; Sasaoka 2008, p. 158). In 2003, 21 163; Cantu´ -Guzma´n et al. 2007, p. 60). cities. Of these, 60,230 wild-caught, cockatoos were trapped in the research Methods used for poaching lead to native parrots were kept by 51,000 site by 3 households; in 2004, 25 significant mortality. In some cases, households, and 50,590 wild-caught, cockatoos by 5 households; and in 2005, white cockatoos in the past have been native parrots were acquired each year 26 cockatoos by 10 households. These caught with gum or glue, which would (changed hands, not an indication of researchers found that villagers stick to their feathers (Lambert 1993, p. birds taken from the wild each year). sometimes kept the cockatoos for 155; ProFauna 2008, p. 2). Some The study recommended a conservation several months while waiting for the trappers reported mortality rates intervention based on the level of bird- best price, but normally did not keep between 77 and 80 percent before keeping among urban Indonesians. As of them as pets. parrots reach customers, and nestlings 2006, an average of 100 white cockatoos Exploitation for commercial purposes experience a higher mortality rate were found for sale in bird markets in prior to 1992 is widely accepted as the (Cantu´ -Guzma´n et al. 2007, p. 60). Java annually (ProFauna Indonesia primary cause of drastic, rangewide ProFauna Indonesia estimated that 2010, pers. comm.). The sale of live population decline of many parrot parrot smuggling in North Maluku, parrots can be a significant source of species. The commercial market for pet Indonesia, results in approximately 40 income. Parrots can sell for 75,000 to cockatoos is highly lucrative (Cantu´ - percent mortality (5 percent during glue 500,000 Indonesian Ruphiahs (IDR or Guzma´n et al. 2007, 121 pp.). Prior to trapping, 10 percent during Rp) each, which equates to between 1992, when the U.S. Wild Bird transportation, and 25 percent during $7.50 and $50 U.S. dollars. A young Conservation Act was enacted, critical holding to sell in bird markets (due to cockatoo can sell for $20 to $25 USD scientific studies to address issues of malnutrition, disease, and stress) (2008, (ProFauna 2008, p. 3; Sasaoka 2009, detriment to populations, appropriate p. 5)). The estimates do not always pers. comm., pp. 1–2; ProFauna management of species, and sustainable include deaths of birds before export, Indonesia 2010, pers. comm.). In 1993, levels of trade had not been undertaken smuggled birds, and birds domestically cockatoos were described as generally for most CITES Appendix-II bird species traded. Others estimate that as few as rare in the Java and Bali markets; only in trade. Even in 1992, there was serious one-fourth of those poached survive the two white cockatoos, or 1.2 percent of concern that the international process of removal from their native, parrots for sale, were seen in these commercial trade in wild-caught birds wild habitat to captivity. markets visited (Lambert 1993, p. 158). was contributing to the decline in the Undocumented illegal trade However, of 381 parrots of 19 species wild of some species of birds listed in (international and domestic) is difficult observed at markets in Indonesia, white CITES Appendix II. to quantify (Thomsen et al. 1992, p. 3; cockatoo was represented by 11 pets Poaching poses a serious threat to the Pain et al. 2006, p. 322), and a listing (9.7 percent) and 44 individuals (11.5 species. The scope of the illegal trade in in Appendix I of CITES does not percent) in the market sample. white cockatoos is unknown. completely stop illegal trade (Pain et al. Between 1993 and 2002, although ProFauna’s investigation in 2008 found 2006, p. 328). Seizures reported to the Indonesia had reported the export of that this species is regularly poached CITES Secretariat since 1990, however, 712 wild-caught birds, import records from the wild and shipped to the are small—1 live bird seized in Austria from other CITES countries recorded Philippines. (After reaching the in 1997; 25 live birds seized in the

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United Arab Emirates in 1998; and 4 natural resources and the ecosystems and shipped to the Philippines, and live birds seized in Indonesia in 1999 (Yeager 2008, pp. 3–4); however, there is strong demand for this species (Sellar 2009, pers. comm., p. 2). Since poaching and illegal trade continue to within Indonesia. Additionally, having 2000, the United States refused import occur (also see discussion under Factor a parrot as a household pet is a common clearance for three birds reported as D). part of Indonesian culture. Government Cacatua species. One bird was The presence of recent and upcoming officials have limited resources to deal described as C. alba in 2010; the other mining projects in Halmahera is also with the illegal pet trade. Indonesia is two birds were unknown Cacatua likely to increase demand locally for a founding member of ASEAN–WEN species. All three birds were re- birds (see to Factor A discussion above). and has made an effort to train its exported. Temporary workers are known to buy police, forestry, and Customs officers in Illegal trade of parrot species occurs these birds as gifts. It is apparently a methods to tackle poaching and quite frequently; in fact, an investigative problem even among police and military smuggling. However, the wildlife report recently conducted of the illegal personnel posted to the area (WCS 2010, protection laws are not vigorously parrot trade in Mexico demonstrates this pers. comm.). ProFauna has encouraged enforced at local levels for this species. (Cantu´ -Guzma´n et al. 2007, 121 pp.). the Navy of Indonesian Armed Force Despite ProFauna Indonesia and the The investigation found that documents (TNI) and the Indonesian Marine Police Indonesian Institute of Sciences having are frequently forged to smuggle to improve the patrol of marine requested that the Forestry Department desirable and increasingly rare parrot boundaries between Indonesia and the of Indonesia list white cockatoo as a species (p. 38). The organization that Philippines in order to decrease this protected species, and the Sultan of seizes parrots in Mexico, the Federal illegal trade. NGOs are encouraging both Ternate Palace having forbidden the Attorney for the Protection of the Indonesian and the Philippines poaching of this species (ProFauna Environment (PROFEPA), indicated that governments to implement and enforce Indonesia 2010, pers. comm.), poaching their most serious problem is combating their wildlife laws and encouraging and illegal cross-border trade still occur. the illegal bird trade (p. 45). Although Indonesia to list Cacatua alba as a The ProFauna investigation in 2008 this investigation was done in Mexico, protected species (ProFauna 2008, pp. found that enforcement in both it reflects a problem that occurs within 8–9); however, poaching continues. Indonesia and the Philippines is many countries with endemic parrots. Stopping illegal trade is further lacking. In part because this species Locally, a high level of parrot complicated by the vast size of does not begin to reproduce until poaching in north Halmahera is due in Indonesia’s coastline, and government approximately 6 years of age, and part to the lack of supervision by officials have limited resources and because this species is thought to be Natural Resources Conservation (KSDA) knowledge to deal with the illegal pet monogamous and usually mates for life, officers in the Forestry Department trade (Metz 2007c, p. 2; Laurence 2007, this level of poaching for the pet trade (ProFauna 2008, p. 3). There is no p. 1544). To combat illegal wildlife is a considerable threat to the species in regular enforcement or patrol by the trade, Southeast Asian countries, its ability to maintain its population. KSDA officers. An NGO working with including Indonesia, formed the Based on the best available information, this species indicated that they had Association of South East Asian we find that overutilization is a threat recently received several white Nations–Wildlife Enforcement Network to the continued existence of this cockatoos from Indonesian authorities (ASEAN–WEN) in 2005 to protect the species. who had confiscated them from region’s biodiversity (http:// poachers (Metz 2010, pers. comm.). www.asean.org, accessed March 3, Factor C. Disease or Predation Most of the Indonesian parrots come 2011). ASEAN–WEN uses a cooperative There is no evidence that either from Halmahera Island and are shipped approach to law enforcement (Cameron disease or predation is a threat to the to the Philippines. According to a recent 2007, p. 164). It focuses on the gathering white cockatoo in the wild. We are investigation, 40 percent of parrots were and sharing of intelligence, capacity unaware of any reports of diseases smuggled to the Philippines from the building, and better cooperation in anti- negatively affecting white cockatoos in port in Pelita Village, District in smuggling and Customs controls across the wild. Since disease and predation northern Halmahera (ProFauna 2008, p. Southeast Asia (Lin 2005, p. 192). For associated with this species in the wild 5). The birds are apparently smuggled to example in 2008, Indonesian police are not well documented, we Balut Island or to General Santos in the officers and forestry and Customs extrapolate from what is known about Philippines. The journey to smuggle officers participated in an intensive cockatoos in general (see analysis under parrots from Halmahera, Indonesia, to Wildlife Crime Investigation Course Factor C for the Philippine cockatoo). General Santos, the Philippines, takes presented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Although some serious diseases such as over 9 hours, not including the time it Service to help the government tackle beak and feather disease and PDD occur takes to transport birds from the forest, poaching and smuggling (Wildlife in cockatoos in the wild, we found no to villages, and then to the port. The Alliance 2008, p. 2). Despite these information that these diseases occur in transactions are done offshore or in the efforts, illegal trade of white cockatoo cockatoos in the wild in Indonesia. sea, where the Philippine dealers collect still occurs within Indonesia. Cases of avian influenza (H5N1) do the parrots from Indonesian ships. Upon occur in Indonesia, but parrots, arrival at General Santos, the birds are Summary of Factor B particularly cockatoos, are not sent to Cartimar market in Manila, the In summary, overutilization of the considered to be natural reservoirs of capital of the Philippines (ProFauna white cockatoo for the pet trade is a this disease (IPP 2006). With respect to 2008, p. 4). Since there is little significant threat to the species, and this predation, the white cockatoo has disincentive for locals, it is a low-risk species is undergoing a rapid natural predators, but we were unable to and lucrative source of income. Despite population decline. Poaching and illegal find information that these natural the existence of legislation, this illegal trade is difficult to control, in part predators are having a negative impact trade of protected parrots continues. because Indonesia has a vast coastline, on the productivity of this species. Law No. 5, 1990, governing the and because income derived from Therefore, we find that the white conservation of biological resources and poaching can be a significant source of cockatoo is not threatened due to their ecosystems, was enacted to protect income. Birds are clearly being poached disease or predation.

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Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing 2008, p. 3). However, that quota was Because this species is not listed in Regulatory Mechanisms exceeded (ProFauna 2010, pers. comm.). Appendix I, which would mean that Recent information indicates that there commercial trade would be prohibited Domestic Regulatory Mechanisms is no longer a catch quota (ProFauna except under certain circumstances, Indonesia has laws and regulations in 2010, pers. comm.), but that restriction legal international trade is still place to conserve biodiversity, manage may apply to commercial purposes, occurring for this species. forests, regulate trade, provide species rather than breeding. According to WCS Since 2000, there has generally been protection, and develop and manage (2010, pers. comm.), this species is a downward trend in exports of the protected areas. However, these laws trapped and sold, and this can include white cockatoo (UNEP–WCMC CITES and regulations are frequently ignored trapping on a ‘‘commercial’’ scale by Trade Database, accessed January 4, (BLI 2008k, p. 7; Laurance 2007, p. professionals, or farmers trapping 2011). According to the CITES UNEP– 1544), and the country is unable to occasional birds and then selling them WCMC Trade Database, there were 653 monitor its vast area, which consists of to wholesalers. In 2007, at least 200 live exports of the white cockatoo in 17,508 islands. The Indonesian white cockatoos were caught from the 2000, 269 in 2008, and 1,104 in 2009 economic crisis that led to the downfall wild in North Halmahera, which far (2009 may have been an anomaly). of the Suharto regime resulted in the exceeded the quota of 10 pairs Between 2000 and 2009, 8,505 government instituting a (ProFauna 2008, p. 3; http:// specimens of live white cockatoos were decentralization that gave local www.thegabrielfoundation.org/ reported to have been exported. The governments greater autonomy (Vetter indonesianparrots.html). bulk of these exports was exported from 2009, p. 15). However, this Additionally, in 2010, the Sultan of South Africa and was reported as decentralization resulted in confusion of Ternate Palace issued a fatwa (order) captive-origin. Between 2000 and 2009, roles and responsibilities, and forbidding the poaching of cockatoos in of the live shipments, there were 28 implementation of decentralization has the wild. However, as stated before, white cockatoos reported as wild origin. been slow and uncertain. Conflicting enforcement often is severely lacking None of these live specimens reported interpretation of policies and priorities (Shepherd et al. 2004, p. 4) or difficult, as wild origin was exported directly and the lack of capacity or experience and illegal activities remain socially from Indonesia. Of the live shipments, of local governments have occurred acceptable at the local level. Illegal trade 8,435 specimens were described as (Rhee et al. 2004, chap. 2, p. 20). has been reported to the Natural According to ProFauna, the high level captive origin, 19 were described as Resource Conservation Agency, which ‘‘unknown’’ origin, and 20 were of parrot poaching in north Halmahera is responsible for enforcing the law, but described as pre-Convention, seized, or is in part due to the lack of monitoring to date enforcement efforts remain confiscated. Of the countries that by Natural Resources Conservation ineffective (ProFauna Indonesia 2004, p. reported the most exports of live white (KSDA) officers in the Forestry 8). To further complicate enforcement cockatoos, 273 specimens were exported Department (ProFauna 2008, p. 3). efforts, some bird dealers claim that from Indonesia, 4,444 specimens were There is no regular enforcement or members of the Department of Forest exported from South Africa, and 384 patrol by the KSDA officers (ProFauna Protection and Nature Conservation are specimens were exported from the 2008, p. 3). The North Maluku involved in the illegal trade of this Philippines. Note that countries that are government and ProFauna Indonesia species (Shepherd et al. 2004, p. 4). have proposed to the Forestry Ministry Existing regulatory mechanisms not Parties to CITES do not submit that the species be classified as a within Indonesia, as implemented, are annual report trade data to UNEP– protected species (BLI 2010c; ProFauna inadequate to reduce or remove the WCMC (also refer to the CITES 2010, pers. comm.). current threats to the white cockatoo. discussion for the crimson shining In general, the export of wild-caught Even with government controls, parrot). However, Parties, in their parrots is subject to harvest and export poaching of cockatoos is relatively annual reports, do include data on their quotas in Indonesia. However, because common (WCS 2010, pers. comm.). As trade with non-parties, and these data the white cockatoo is not on the discussed under Factor B, we found that are recorded in the UNEP–WCMC Trade Indonesian Government’s list of poaching is the primary threat to the Database. Also, while the Database does protected species (Law No. 5 1990, pp. white cockatoo. There is some evidence not include CITES annual report trade 1–44; Rhee et al. 2004, chap. 5, p. 2, that the actions of Indonesian data from CITES Parties that did not App. VIII; ProFauna 2010a, pers. government agencies and the military submit annual reports, it does include comm.), Indonesia has no legal export are changing; however, if penalties are CITES trade data from Parties that quota for wild-caught specimens of this not enforced for illegal trade, trapping submitted their annual reports and species (IPP 2010). In 1988, the from the wild will continue (ProFauna engaged in CITES trade with those non- Indonesian government began issuing Indonesia 2004, pp. 9–11). In submitting Parties. quotas on trapping for the white conclusion, we find that the existing The purpose of CITES is to ensure cockatoo; however, these trapping regulatory mechanisms are inadequate that international trade in animal and quotas were poorly enforced. In 1999, to reduce or remove the current threats plant species is not detrimental to the no quota was issued, and all capture to the white cockatoo. There is no survival of wild populations by was reported to be illegal since 1999 information available to suggest that regulating the import, export, and re- (BLI 2010c). However, an NGO reported these regulatory mechanisms will export of CITES-listed animal and plant that there was a catch quota of the white improve in the foreseeable future. species. The best available data indicate cockatoo for 2007. It was issued by the that the current threat to this species of General Director of Perlindungan Hutan CITES cockatoo stems from illegal trade in the dan Konservasi Alam (PHKA), which Indonesia has been a member of domestic markets of Indonesia and translates to the Forest Protection and CITES since December 28, 1978. It has international surrounding countries. As Nature Conservation under the designated Management, Scientific, and discussed under Factor B above, Indonesian Ministry of Forestry, and the Enforcement authorities to implement uncontrolled illegal poaching for the pet catch quota was for 10 pairs that were the Treaty (CITES 2008b, p. 1) and has trade continues to adversely impact to be used only for breeding (ProFauna played an active role in CITES meetings. white cockatoos. Despite illegal trade,

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CITES is adequately regulating legal Halmahera region, and there was even a BLI 2003, pp. 1–2). An investigation international trade. video available online (http:// conducted by NGOs in Indonesia in www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEmEB- 2002 and 2003 found evidence of wild Summary of Factor D Zj_L4), entitled ‘‘Diving travel: The birds in local markets, and sellers In summary, we find that the existing North Halmahera Experience.’’ reported that they were destined to go regulatory mechanisms within Although the Halmahera region is to countries such as Europe (BLI 2004, Indonesia, as implemented, are remote and few diving operations exist, pp. 1–2). Ending illegal trade is inadequate to reduce or remove the there is the potential for the diving hampered by Indonesia’s large coastline current threats to white cockatoos. Local industry to expand and exert more of an and officials with limited resources and protections in place provide some effect on the islands in this area. knowledge. protection to white cockatoos. While However, at this time, the best available Unsustainable poaching is Indonesia has a good legal framework to information does not indicate that particularly detrimental to the white manage wildlife and their habitats, diving-related activities on or near cockatoo because of its estimated small implementation of its laws and Halmahera negatively affect the white and rapidly declining population. regulatory mechanisms has been cockatoo. We are not aware of any Excessive removal of individuals from inadequate to reduce the threats to tourist activities occurring on Bacan the wild for illegal trade is particularly white cockatoos. The national parks on Island. We found no other natural or harmful to species such as the white Halmahera may provide some manmade factors affecting the cockatoo, which are monogamous, long- protection to white cockatoos; however, continued existence of the white lived species that do not begin breeding management of protected areas is cockatoo. Therefore, we find there are until they are 6 years of age. hampered by staff shortages and lack of no threats to this species under this Additionally, because this species has a expertise and money. As discussed factor. high monetary value (Basile personal under Factors A and B above, we found Finding for the White Cockatoo communication 2010, pp. 6–7) and there that habitat destruction and poaching is little risk in poaching, poaching is As required by the ESA, we are threats to white cockatoos. financially lucrative. The Act describes considered the five factors in assessing Deforestation and illegal activities are a ‘‘threatened species’’ as ‘‘any species whether the white cockatoo is still rampant in Indonesia (Laurance which is likely to become an endangered or threatened throughout all 2007, pp. 1–7). The national and local endangered species within the or a significant portion of its range. We regulations and management of this foreseeable future throughout all or a analyzed the potential threats to the species’ habitat are ineffective at significant portion of its range.’’ The white cockatoo including: Habitat loss reducing the threats of habitat best available information indicates that and degradation, poaching for the pet destruction (see Factor A) and poaching poaching and trade are not at a level to for the pet trade (see Factor B). The trade, disease and predation, the inadequacy of regulatory controls, and consider the species to be in danger of white cockatoo is listed in Appendix II extinction at this time. However, based of CITES (see discussion under other natural or manmade factors, such as the conversion of habitat to on the analysis of the five factors Conservation Status for the White discussed above, we determine that the Cockatoo above), and CITES appears to monocultures for biofuel, and ecotourism activities such as diving. We white cockatoo is likely to become an be an adequate regulatory mechanism to endangered species within the address legal international trade. found that habitat loss, particularly due to selective logging, and conversion of foreseeable future. Therefore, we find Even with government restrictions, overutilization for commercial, poaching of cockatoos (i.e., hunting by forests to agriculture, mining, or biofuels, is a threat to the white recreational, scientific, or educational people to gain at least a temporary purposes (Factor B), specifically living from the activity) is still relatively cockatoo; the population is declining rangewide (see Factor A discussion). poaching for the pet trade, is a threat to common in Indonesia. Nestlings are the white cockatoo throughout its range. more desirable as pets, yet their Halmahera is becoming increasingly more desirable to developers and We found no evidence that disease or mortality rate when taken from the wild investors as natural resources become predation significantly affect the wild is greater than that of adults (ProFauna more scarce. white cockatoo population throughout 2008). Laws and regulations are We found that poaching for the pet its range. frequently ignored, and this adds to the trade is the most significant threat to the The white cockatoo is not currently inability to enforce them due to the species, despite local public awareness classified as a protected species by the remoteness of the areas where this campaigns. It is estimated that there are Indonesian government. Although species is located. There is no between 8,629 and 48,393 individuals of Indonesia has a good legal framework to information available to suggest this species remaining in the wild on manage wildlife and their habitats, regulatory mechanisms within Halmahera; the number of white implementation of its laws and Indonesia will be adequate to protect cockatoos remaining on Bacan Island is regulatory mechanisms has been this species in the foreseeable future; unknown, though poaching of wild inadequate to address the threats to the therefore, we find that the inadequacy of birds on this island is believed to be white cockatoo, in part due to the regulatory mechanisms is a threat to the occurring. Pet birds are an important remoteness of the white cockatoo’s white cockatoo throughout its range. part of not only Indonesian culture, but habitat. Logging laws and policies are Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade also Asian culture, with large numbers frequently ignored and rarely enforced, Factors Affecting the Continued of wild-caught parrots traded and illegal logging is rampant, even Existence of the Species domestically and internationally (Baula occurring in national parks and nature et al. 2003, pp. 1–12; BLI 2004, pp. 1– reserves. Current concession policies Ecotourism 2, ProFauna 2008, pp. 3–4). Trappers and logging practices hamper The Halmahera region is an emerging reportedly remain quite active. Wild- sustainable forestry. Threats to the diving destination (WWF 2010a, p. 2). caught birds are openly sold in Asian species have not decreased; local NGOs An Internet search found several Web markets, particularly in the nearby indicate the population trend is sites offered diving trips that are in the Philippines (ProFauna 2008, pp. 3–4; declining.

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Although diving activities are range on Halmahera Island. The limited region of Indonesia, and all have quite increasing near islands containing white information available for the white small populations. Absent peer- cockatoo habitat, there is no evidence cockatoo does not allow us to determine reviewed information to the contrary that ecotourism is a threat to this what portion of the range if any, would and based on the best available species now or in the foreseeable future. be impacted to a significant degree more information, we recognize all four Therefore, we conclude that there are no than any other. Therefore, we conclude subspecies as being valid. For the other natural or manmade factors that that the threats to the species are purpose of this rule, it is prudent to are threats to the species throughout its uniform throughout its range, and no propose listing C. sulphurea, which range (Factor E). portion of its range is currently in includes all subspecies. Under the ESA, an ‘‘endangered danger of extinction. species’’ is defined as ‘‘any species Use of Scientific Names in This Section which is in danger of extinction Species Information It is generally our practice to use the throughout all or a significant portion of D. Yellow-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua scientific name of the species in the its range.’’ The ESA defines a sulphurea) beginning of the document for avian species, and, subsequently, refer to each ‘‘threatened species’’ as ‘‘any species Taxonomy and Description which is likely to become an species by their common name; endangered species within the There are four recognized subspecies however, in this section, we will foreseeable future throughout all or a of the yellow-crested cockatoo: Cacatua generally refer to the species by their significant portion of its range.’’ Based sulphurea abbotti (Oberholser, 1917), C. scientific names. There are many similar on our review of the best available s. citrinocristata (Fraser, 1844), C. s. cockatoo species, some of which have scientific and commercial information sulphurea (Bonaparte, 1850), and C. s. similar sounding common names and pertaining to the above five factors, we parvula (Gmelin, 1788). IUCN and BLI may be confused. For example, the find that the white cockatoo meets the recognize C. sulphurea at the species yellow-crested cockatoo is also referred definition of a ‘‘threatened species’’ level only. All four subspecies are to as the lesser sulphur-crested under the ESA, and we are proposing to recognized by ITIS (http://www.itis.gov). cockatoo, which is Cacatua sulphurea, list the white cockatoo as a threatened These four subspecies are endemic to but there is also the sulphur-crested species throughout its range. Although Timor-Leste (an independent state cockatoo, which is C. galerita. the species is not currently in danger of which is adjacent to West Timor, a part Additionally, because there are four extinction and, thus, does not qualify as of Indonesia) and Indonesia. The recognized subspecies of C. sulphurea, an ‘‘endangered species’’ under the yellow-crested cockatoo inhabits forest, using their scientific names is more ESA, we conclude that the species forest edge, scrub, and agricultural land precise and clear. Finally, because there qualifies as a threatened species. The (IUCN 2008j; BLI 2010d, p. 1), but are various local common names, it is current distribution of white cockatoos prefers primary lowland forest. more effective to refer to these species within its range and its disbursed Historically, it was found throughout by their scientific names. distribution on two islands provides the Lesser Sundas, on Sulawesi and its resiliency to the population against the satellite islands, on Nusa Penida (off General Biology threats such that the species is not Bali), and the Masalembu Islands (in the Nest holes have been observed to be currently in danger of extinction, but Java Sea). These subspecies (hereafter 6 to 18 m (20 to 60 ft) above ground may become so in the foreseeable future. collectively referred to as the species) (Setiawan 1996 in Prijono 2008, p. 3). are found in forested habitat in the Two tree species used by Cacatua Significant Portion of the Range lowlands up to 500 m (1,640 ft) on sulphurea for nesting include Sterculia Having determined that the white Sulawesi and up to 800 m (2,625 ft), and foetida (wild almond tree) and cockatoo meets the definition of sometimes 1,200 m (ft), in the Lesser Tetrameles nudiflora (Binong) (Widodo threatened throughout its range, we Sundas (Collar 1994; Jones et al. 1995; 2009, p. 85). There does not appear to must next consider whether there are Snyder 2000, p. 69). They prefer large, be a set or restricted breeding season any significant portions of its range that mature trees with nesting areas higher (Prijono 2008, p. 3); the breeding season meet the definition of endangered. See in the canopy, and they prefer internal may coincide with the availability of our discussion under the crimson forested areas to forest edges (Jones et al. nutrients in food sources. Incubation is shining parrot for how we make this 1995, pp. 27–28, 39). shared by both parents. Incubation lasts determination. For the purpose of this There is substantial discussion in 28 days, and the nestling period is 65 analysis, we consider a portion of the scientific literature that debates the days until fledging (Cameron 2007, p. white cockatoo’s range to be significant classification of island species and 140). if it is important to the conservation of whether they deserve species status Their diet includes its range because it contributes rather than subspecies status (mango); Carica papaya (papaya); Ficus meaningfully to the representation, (Phillimore 2010, pp. 42–53; James spp. (fig); Psidium guajava (guava); resiliency, or redundancy of its range 2010, pp. 1–5; Pratt 2010 pp. 79–89). Eugenia malaccensis (jambu bol); (see Redford et al. 2011). The best This is sometimes significant with Opuntia elation (prickly pear); Annona available information indicates that respect to conservation measures, squamosa (srikaya); flowers of Cocos threats to the species occur throughout particularly when considering the nucifer (coconut); Tamarindus indica its range. Although declines on criteria used by organizations such as (tamarind); flowers and fruit of Halmahera have been quantified to the IUCN. Assessments of subspecies Avicennia (mangrove); fruit of Dehaasia some extent, the lack of any are only accepted by IUCN provided (marangtaipa) and young leaves of information, including quantitative there is a global assessment of the Sonneratia (mangrove); and ninifo, population trend information for Bacan species as a whole. These four thought to be within the Canarium Island, precludes a comparison of the subspecies may all be in fact species, (Nandika 2006, p. 10). declines in these two portions of its but for the purpose of this proposed rule range. Further, we found no information and 12-month finding, these four Feral Populations indicating that the threats are of greater subspecies essentially face the same Feral populations of released or magnitude or extent in any portion of its threats, are all generally in the same escaped captive-held yellow-crested

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cockatoos have established themselves Cacatua sulphurea abbotti 100 birds (Gilardi 2011a, pers. comm.). outside of their native range; however, Abbott’s cockatoo, the largest of the The earlier population estimates may they exist in low numbers (Ling and Lee yellow-crested cockatoos, is only known have been overly optimistic based on 2006, p. 188). Between 1986 and 2000, from a single island, Solombo kecil (or surveying techniques, or the population 11 feral yellow-crested cockatoos were Masalembu kecil pulau), which is 500 has rapidly declined. Sumba Island is located in the Lesser observed in Taiwan (Ling and Lee 2006, ha (1,235 ac) and in the Masalembu Sundas in southeastern Indonesia. The p. 190). Cacatua sulphurea has also Archipelago in the Sulawesi Strait. This island is 12,000 km2 (4,633 mi2), 210 km become feral in places such as island is in the Java Sea, north of the (130 mi) in length, and 50 km (31 mi) Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, cities of Surabaya and Bali, and east of south of Flores Island. Its highest point and Western Australia. In 1998, the southern Sumatra. The subspecies is is Gunung Wanggameti at 1,225 m species was described as being locally considered to be extirpated from (4,019 ft). Precipitation is between 500 common in south and east Singapore, Masalembu Island (also known as and 2,000 mm annually (20 to 79 Salembo Besar) (Indonesian Parrot including the islets of St. John’s and inches). As of 1995, forest covered less Project 2010). C. s. abbotti has a mostly Sentosa, and reportedly breeding in than 11 percent of the island (McKnight white body with a brilliant yellow, gardens and parks, with possibly et al. in prep in Jones et al. 1995, p. 22) between 30 and 50 birds existing there forward-curving crest, and slight yellow and was confined to relatively small and (PHPA/LIPI/BirdLife International-IP on its ear covert feathers. The species fragmented pockets. 1998 in BLI 2001, p. 1652). prefers very large trees within the The two national parks, covering Datiscaceae family for nesting (Snyder 2 2 Population Estimates 1,350 km (521 mi ), were established 2000, p. 69). When Abbott first found on Sumba through Ministerial Decree the endemic form abbotti in 1907, he This species was formerly locally No. 576/Kpts-II in 1998. Manupeu- ‘‘reported it in hundreds’’ on common throughout much of its range. Tanadaru (280 km2 or 108 mi2) seems to Masalembu (Oberholser 1917 in BLI There is evidence of substantial have the healthiest population of 2001, p. 1651). Only between 8 and 10 population declines on Sulawesi, where cockatoos. It had the highest density of individuals of the subspecies abbotti cockatoos when surveyed both in 1992 it may already be beyond recovery were located in 1993 on the Masalembu (Andrew and Holmes 1990; Cahyadin and 2002 (Cahill et al. 2006, p. 164). Islands (Jones et al. in prep. in Cahyadin However, of 33 forest patches surveyed, and Arif 1994; Gilardi 2011, pers. and Arif 1994), and 6 to 8 birds were comm.), and the Lesser Sundas, where cockatoos were recorded in only 17 found in 1998. In 2008, a few (O’Brien et al. 1997 in Cahill et al. 2006, it is believed to be close to extinction on individuals were found on Solombo p. 166). Sumbawa and Flores. It is still fairly kecil Island. In IPP’s last population common in the Komodo National Park survey, they found that on Solombo Cacatua sulphurea parvula (Butchart et al. 1993; Holmes in litt. kecil, only about 30 individuals remain Historically, C. s. parvula was found 1994; Prijono et al. 2008, p. 7). As of (Metz 2010, pers. comm.). The on most of the Lesser Sunda Islands 2001, Cacatua sulphurea sulphurea population of this subspecies as a whole (also known as Nusa Tenggara) only existed in tiny remnant numbers, has declined over 80 percent within including Penida, Lombok, Sumbawa, except perhaps for a small population in three generations (45 years). Although Moyo, Komodo, Flores, Pantar, Alor, Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park the Indonesian Parrot Project has started Timor, and Semau Islands. Now this (BLI 2001, p. 1648). C. sulphurea is a conservation program for this subspecies is found on Alor, Pantar, extinct on Lombok (BirdLife-IP in litt. subspecies, it is too early to report on Komodo, and Sumbawa Islands. In the 1997). C. s. abbotti is at a critically +low progress of the conservation program. past 10 years, populations of more than 10 cockatoos have been found at only population level; C. s. parvula is doing Cacatua sulphurea citrinocristata fairly well on Komodo in Komodo two locations (Setiawan et al. 2000; National Park; and C. s. citrinocristata The subspecies citrinocristata is Prijono 2008, p. 6). In 1994, on persists but was steadily declining on found on Sumba, where the 2002 Sumbawa, this subspecies was observed Sumba (BLI 2001, p. 1648). On Nusa estimate of the population was between at three sites and reported by islanders Penida, this subspecies was last 565 and 2,054 individuals (Cahill et al. to occur at 14 more, although in very recorded in 1986 (van Helvoort in van 2006, p. 265; Persulessy et al. 2003 in low numbers (Setiawan et al. 2000; Balen 1994). Prijono 2008, p. 5). Another 2002 survey Widodo 2009, p. 84). In 2000, 80 by WCS found a density of 4.3 birds per individuals were observed on Alor Population estimates for each km2 within the two national parks, Island; the population estimate was 678 subspecies vary in part due to the Manupeu-Tanadaru and Laiwangi- to 784 individuals. remoteness of the islands where they Wanggameti (Kinnaird 2003 in Prijono As of 2001, it was thought that West exist. The BLI 2010 Web site reported 2008, p. 5). On Sumba. C. s. Timor and other small islands in the that there are between 2,500 and 9,999 citrinocristata’s population in 1995 was Lesser Sundas could only support a few mature individuals collectively estimated to be just over 3,000 (Jones et individuals (PHKA/LIPI/BirdLife remaining in the wild; however, these al. 1995, p. 39). Earlier surveys in 1989 International-IP 1998; Setiawan et al. data have not been updated based on and 1992 (Marsden 1995 in Prijono 2000; Agista & Rubyanto 2001). The recent information reported from a local 2008, p. 5) estimated the total most recent population estimate on organization in Indonesia. Population population of C. s. citrinocristata was Timor-Leste (East Timor) is between 500 estimates for each subspecies are as between 1,150 and 2,644 birds. On and 1,000 individuals (Trainor et al. in follows: Cacatua sulphurea abbotti, 40; Sumba, C. s. citrinocristata populations litt. 2004). On Timor-Leste, C. s. parvula C. s. citrinocristata, 100 to 2,000; C. s. increased between 1992 and 2002, likely was recorded in six locations (Tilomar, parvula, 800 to 1500; C. s. sulphurea, due to moratoria on international trade Fatumasin, Sungai Clere, Lore, Monte 100 to 150. The population estimates and local protections (Cahill et al. 2006, Paitchau–Iralalora, Mount Diatuto) and a discussion of the subspecies’ p. 162). The most recent survey is not (Trainor 2002, pp. 93–99). Below is a status are presented in more detail publicly available, but the population summary of recent observations and below. on Sumba is now thought to be roughly population estimates for this subspecies.

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• Alor Island: 80 individuals Sulawesi (formerly called Celebes); 522/Kpts-II/1997. Although a observed; population estimate was 678 however, since the early 1980s, this cooperative recovery plan has been to 784 individuals (Setiawan et al. 2000 subspecies has become very rare developed and put into place for C. in Widodo 2009, p. 84). (Prijono 2008, pp. 2–3). This was due to sulphurea, it is unclear how effective it • Flores Island: 14 individuals high rates of poaching (CITES 2004a, p. is; there are no clear indications that the observed (Ria; Watubuku forest, part of 2). In 2001, between 7 and 15 species’ situation is improving. Lewotobi area, see Butchart et al. 1996 individuals were observed on Pasoso Protections exist in several areas such as in Widodo 2009, p. 84). Island; however, the south and central the Rawa Aopa Watumohai and • Komodo Island: 137 individuals parts of the island have limited suitable Caraente National Parks (on Sulawesi), observed; population estimate was 150 habitat consisting of mixed secondary which may support approximately 100 (Imansyah et al. 2005). forest, scrub, and dryland agricultural individuals (Nandika 2006, pp. 10–11); • Moyo Island: 10 individuals plots (Agista et al. 2001 in Prijono 2008, Suaka Margasatwa Nature Reserve on observed (Setiawan et al. 2000). p. 5). Pulau Moyo; Komodo National Park; • Pantar Island: 29 individuals Now, the subspecies is believed to and two national parks on Sumba, observed; population estimate was 444 occur only in a small region of Sulawesi Manupeu-Tanahdaru and Laiwangi- to 534 individuals (Setiawan et al. (Metz 2010, pers. comm.). Wanggameti. The Nini Konis Santana 2000). Approximately 10 years ago, it was National Park in Timor also may have • Sumbawa Island: 14 individuals documented in Rawa Aopa Watumohai a population of approximately 100 birds observed in 1996; subspecies observed National Park (RAWNP) (Agista et al. (Trainor 2002 in Prijono 2008, p. 9). In at three sites and reported by islanders 2001 in Prijono 2008, p. 5). Older Timor-Leste, BirdLife International to occur at 14 more, although in very studies suggested that although some identified 16 Important Bird Areas low numbers (Setiawan et al. 2000). small populations of this subspecies (IBAs). Although this designation does • East Timor (Timor-Leste): may exist elsewhere, the remaining not confer any measure of protection, Population estimate was 500 to 1,000 cockatoos were likely confined to two some of these IBAs may be vital to this individuals in 2004 (Trainor et al. 2005, locations in southern Sulawesi: RAWNP species, particularly since the majority pp. 121–130). and Buton Island and in central of the IBAs are located in coastal areas • West Timor: 8 individuals observed Sulawesi on Pasoso Island. Of these, (BirdLife International 2007). (Setiawan et al. 2000). RAWNP is clearly the most significant For Cacatua sulphurea abbotti, the The largest known population, which site. RAWNP is unique because it has Indonesian Parrot Project (IPP) initiated is on Komodo Island (311 km2 (120 mi2) seven ecosystem types: tidal mudflats, an intensive conservation program on in size) in Komodo National Park, was mangrove forest, wooded savannas, hill Solombo kecil Island. Visits were made previously thought to be doing well, but forest, swamp forest, peat swamp, and to junior and senior high schools to the subspecies’ population is declining cultivation. Therefore this is a teach students about the principles of even here although the exact reasons are significant site to concentrate conservation, increase their awareness unclear (Imansyah et al. 2005, 2 pp.). conservation efforts. However, it is of the plight of this species, and foster Cockatoo poaching is believed to be unlikely that this species occurs here pride in this species, emphasizing that effectively eliminated due to currently, although a separate species, it is their rare and unique bird. Laws to surveillance and enforcement, and there C. galerita, is believed to occur in this protect these birds have been passed but is negligible loss of mature trees or park. only in the distant ‘‘kabupatan’’ forest loss due to illegal logging (Ciofi & (district) of Madura. These decrees are Conservation Status for the Yellow- de Boer 2004 in Prijono 2008, p. 8). out of date, but there are plans to update Crested Cockatoo Flocks of 20 to 30 birds were seen them and extend them locally to the during observations between 1989 and In 1981, Cacatua sulphurea (and all of islands of the Masalembu Archipelago 1995, and, in 1999, an estimated 100 its subspecies) was listed in CITES themselves, where they are more likely birds were observed (Agista & Rubyanto Appendix II. In 2005, it was uplisted to to be enacted. Officers from the local 2001 and BirdLife 2001 in Prijono 2008, Appendix I, thus commercial trade is armed forces and police were taught p. 8). In Komodo National Park, C. s. generally prohibited (see above about the protections already in place parvula was still relatively common discussion with respect to CITES for nationally and internationally, and were prior to 2001, and was most frequently additional information). C. sulphurea is encouraged to conserve the birds (IPP recorded in dry tropical forest (from sea listed on the IUCN Redlist as Critically 2008, pp. 3–4). Nest boxes and use of level to 350 m (1,148 ft)) dominated by Endangered. It is also protected in the wardens are other conservation methods T. indicus (common name: date or U.S. by the WBCA (refer to discussion used. Konservasi Kakatua Indonesia tamarind) and Sterculia foetida (Java- under the Crimson Shining Parrot, (KKI, also known as Cockatoo olive, poon tree, or skunk tree) (Agista factor D). Conservation Indonesia) is another NGO & Rubyanto 2001). The total population It is against Indonesian law to capture working to protect this species. size in Komodo National Park, which Cacatua sulphurea for the export trade. There are only about 100 to 150 spans several islands, is estimated to be C. sulphurea is protected by the Act on Cacatua sulphurea sulphurea left in the approximately 150 individuals on the Conservation of Biological wild, solely on Sulawesi Island. IPP Komodo Island (Imansyah et al. 2005, p. Resources and their Ecosystems (Act recently instituted a conservation 2) and about 100 individuals on Rinca No. 5 of 1990), and there has been no program for this subspecies; however, it Island (BLI 2010f). catch quota for this species since 1994. is still in its preliminary stages. Violation of this law by capture, Cacatua sulphurea sulphurea possession, or trade in this species Evaluation of Factors Affecting the The most recent information from could result in up to 5 years in prison Yellow-Crested Cockatoo local NGOs suggests that only about 100 and a fine of up to 200 million rupiahs We examine the effects on the species to 150 individuals of this subspecies ($22,870 USD; Prijono 2008, p. 13). In based on each of the 5 factors listed remain in the wild, and they are likely 1997, C. sulphurea was protected within under the section 4(a)(1) of the ESA. only on Sulawesi Island. C. s. sulphurea Indonesia by Forestry Ministerial Under the ESA and our implementing was formerly widely distributed in Decrees No. 350/Kpts-II/1997 and No. regulations, a species may warrant

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listing if it is endangered or threatened nesting sites and by forcing cockatoos to (Marsden 1992, p. 12). Similarly, for throughout all or a significant portion of locate nesting sites lower in the canopy. every 100 km2 of locally disturbed its range. The yellow-crested cockatoo is This type of habitat loss affects all secondary forest that were converted to highly restricted in its range and the four subspecies. In the case of Cacatua plantations, 600 birds were likely lost threats to it occur throughout its range. sulphurea abbotti, coconut palms have from the cockatoo population. Even Therefore, we assessed the status of the been planted, displacing their favored when habitat is protected, there is species throughout its entire range. The habitat flora such as kapuk trees and generally little undisturbed habitat threats to the survival of this species mangrove. The main cause of forest loss available, and it is of less suitable occur throughout the species’ range and for C. s. citrinocristata has been the quality. are not restricted to any particular clearing and repeated burning of Cockatoos are highly impacted by portion of its range. Accordingly, our vegetation to provide land for grazing selective logging of primary forests, assessment and proposed determination and cultivation, although between 1992 especially since reduced-impact logging applies to the species throughout its and 2002, there was no evidence of techniques are seldom applied. entire range. Unless our status review additional forest loss (Cahill et al. 2006, Selective logging, which targets mature finds that there is a unique threat to a p. 165). Removal of trees for local use trees, has a substantial negative impact particular subspecies, we will consider occurs, but there is no commercial on tree-cavity nesters such as Cacatua all of the subspecies to be facing logging on Sumba. In many areas, as a sulphurea. The abundance of cockatoos equivalent threats, as their habitats are result of the shifting cultivation and is positively related to the density of its very similar and they are all island annual burning for cattle grazing, the preferred nest trees (large trees that endemics in the same region. Like the original vegetation has been replaced by would be impacted by logging). white cockatoo, the greatest threats to fire-resistant trees, shrubs, and grasses. Once the primary forest is logged, cockatoos in Indonesia and other range Where grazing and burning have been land use on other Indonesian islands countries is poaching from the wild for particularly intensive, the grasslands shows that the secondary forest is the illegal pet trade (usually nestlings have become degraded and soil erosion generally converted to other uses or are taken), logging, and other forms of is evident. A study found that on Sumba logged again rather than being allowed deforestation and habitat destruction. In Island, birds were absent or rare in to return to primary forest. Therefore, 2 order to be efficient, if the threats are forest areas of less than 10 km although cockatoos may continue to the same threats affecting a species (Kinnaird et al. 2003 in Prijono 2008, p. inhabit secondary or degraded forests on discussed above, we will summarize 4). Jones et al. indicated that in order to their respective islands, their these threats and refer to a discussion in protect the few remaining C. s. populations will be at substantially the document above if it is not unique citrinocristata, the areas of remaining lower numbers. The trend of high loss to this species or subspecies. forest on Sumba Island must be of primary forests and degradation of preserved (1995, p. 49). secondary forests is of concern because Factor A. The Present or Threatened For Cacatua sulphurea parvula, the little is known about the reproductive Destruction, Modification, or largest population is thought to be on ecology of Cacatua sulphurea in the Curtailment of the Species’ Habitat or Komodo Island in Komodo National wild, including breeding success in Range Park. This park includes three major mature forests versus secondary forests, islands: Komodo, Rinca and Padar, in and whether these cockatoos will Habitat destruction such as that addition to several smaller islands survive in degraded forests in the long described above for white cockatoos (http://www.komodonationalpark.org, term. However, surveys indicate that the also threatens Cacatua sulphurea. accessed March 3, 2011). Its total marine species is declining in the wild. Deforestation is pervasive throughout and land surface area is 1,817 km2 (701 In summary, extensive logging, both Indonesia and Timor-Leste (Costin and mi2). Due to the dryer climate, wildfires legal and illegal, has damaged Cacatua Powell 2006, p. 2; Laurance 2007, p. are a problem (Imansyah, unpublished, sulphurea habitat. In some areas, 1,544). For example, on Solombo kecil in Imansyah et al. 2005, p. 2). deforestation and habitat degradation Island, trees that have suitable habitat to Researchers believe that the species’ are still occurring. The populations have provide food and nest holes for C. s. decline may be due to the lack of decreased on all islands, and there is no abbotti are logged. Their habitat on this nesting sites. sign of improvement. Therefore, we find island has been essentially destroyed The yellow-crested cockatoo resides that the present and threatened and replaced with coconut palms. in lowland forests predominately destruction, modification, or Almost total destruction of habitat flora, between 100 to 600 m (328 to 1,968 ft) curtailment of its habitat is a threat to such as kapuk trees (Ceiba pentandra) throughout these islands, with the the continued existence of this species and mangrove (Avicennia apiculata) highest densities of birds occurring in throughout all of its range. which are preferred by the species, has little-disturbed forests. The locations occurred (IPP 2008, p. 3). Cockatoos where the subspecies is thought to exist Factor B. Overutilization for consume fruit of tall timber trees such currently, as well as the most recent Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or as ‘‘kayu besi’’ (Intsia bijuga), the source population estimates, may be found Educational Purposes of ‘‘ironwood’’ for building, and below under the Factor B discussion. Poaching for the pet trade is a factor tangkalase (scientific name unknown), a Both legal and illegal logging have been that also affects Cacatua sulphurea. Not deciduous hardwood tree (Nandika the primary threats to the habitat of this only are cockatoos desirable pets, but 2006, p. 10). These trees are species, with the threats occurring this species is also very vocal and disappearing or gone from the island. In throughout the islands in lowland conspicuous, making it an easy target the past, cockatoo nests seemed to be forests, decreasing available habitat for poaching (Jepson and Ladle 2005, safe from trappers if they were (Prijono 2008, p. 1; Widodo 2009, p. 81). pp. 442, 447; Prijono 2008, pp. 4–5). sufficiently high. The decrease in such For example, research found that for Extremely heavy trade during the 1970s trees likely played a vital role in the every 100 km2 (38.6 mi2) of Seram’s and 1980s was indicated as the main species’ decline (Marsden and Jones primary forests that were selectively cause of the decline of this species 1997 in Snyder 2000, p. 70) in two logged in the last 6 years, 700 birds were (BirdLife International-IP, 1998; BLI ways: by decreasing suitable trees for likely lost from the cockatoo population 2004 in Cahill et al. 2006, p. 161).

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Between 1981 and 1992, 96,785 C. Studies by social anthropologists of disease nor predation are threats to C. sulphurea were reported to have been locals in Seram and Halmahera showed sulphurea. exported from Indonesia (UNEP– that parrot catching accounted for 25 to Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing WCMC, in Cahill 2006, p. 162). In 1992, 30 percent of their cash income Regulatory Mechanisms cockatoos were worth approximately (Badcock in litt. 1997, in Snyder et al. $55 USD to the wholesalers who export 2000, p. 60). Among the Halafara people After surveys conducted in the late birds to Java (Marsden 1995 in Cahill et of the Manusela valley on Seram, locals 1990s by the Directorate-General of al. 2006, p. 165). would catch and sell parrots to raise Forest Protection and Nature From the data collected by ProFauna their bride price (Badcock in litt. 1997, Conservation (PHPA) and BirdLife about animal markets in Java and Bali, in Snyder et al. 2000, p. 60). Now, with International-Indonesia, it was the domestic trade in parrots is still at the marked decline in their numbers, determined that Cacatua sulphurea a high level (ProFauna 2008, pp. 2–8). the birds are even sought by government populations had collapsed (Snyder et al. Many investigations indicate that these officials, who keep them as pets due to 2000, p. 59). Prior to 1993, at which cockatoos could fairly easily be the prestige of owning such a rare bird time legal trade was prohibited, there exported and at some point their origin (IPP 2008, p. 3). was a reported average of 1,600 C. s. would be unknown, yet indicated as Due to high demand for cockatoos and citrinocristata individuals being captive-origin (BLI 2003, p. 2). based on trade reports in 1993, the removed from Sumba annually, yet the CITES Standing Committee 1992 population was only TABLE 2—LIVE EXPORTS OF Cacatua recommended that countries suspend approximately 3,200 (Cahill et al. 2006, sulphurea BETWEEN 2000 AND imports from Indonesia, pending p. 161). This level of trade was quite 2009 (UNEP–WCMC 2010) surveys to assess the status of the obviously unsustainable. The species after a significant trade review population had increased, likely due to Total number of specimens exported ...... 4,806 (CITES 2001, AC17 Inf. 3 p. 4; CITES the moratorium on international trade Total number of specimens exported as Notification to the Parties No. 737). and local protections (Cahill et al. 2006, captive ...... 4,719 p. 164); however, the population is Total number of specimens exported as Singapore continued to re-export wild- wild ...... 50 caught birds originating from Indonesia declining now (BLI 2010d; Metz 2010, Total other or unknown ...... 23 after the export suspension of Indonesia pers. comm.). In 1992, the Regent of No source code reported ...... 9 in 1994 (CITES 2001, AC17 Inf. 3 p. 4). West Sumba (Decree no. 147) banned Top 3 exporters: Number of specimens exported from In total, 1,229 wild-caught birds were trapping and transport of cockatoos. South Africa ...... 1,799 reported to be re-exported from This was followed by a similar decree Number of specimens exported from Singapore between 1994 and 1999 in East Sumba (Decree no. 21), and in Indonesia ...... 508 (CITES 2001, AC17 Inf. 3 p. 4; WCMC 1994, the government of Indonesia Number of specimens exported from the Philippines ...... 481 2001 in CITES 2004a, pp. 9–10). imposed a zero export quota (Cahill et Although trade was recognized to be a al. 2006, p. 162). In 1997, this species Note: This number does not report specimens ex- problem, this species was not listed on was provided additional protection by ported as Cacatua sulphurea citrinocristata. There Appendix I of CITES until 2005. the Forestry Ministerial Decrees No. was data reported in the UNEP–WCMC database for this subspecies but not for the other C. Poaching for the pet trade, as with all 350/Kpts–II/1997 and No. 522/Kpts–II/ sulphurea subspecies (http://www.unep- cockatoo species referenced in this rule, 1997. wcmc.org). is a significant threat to this species as According to a CITES 2004 proposal well. to uplist Cacatua sulphurea to On Sumba Island, evidence of Although some subspecies are Appendix I, the Philippines, Singapore, cockatoo trapping was seen in 1996 monitored and are on remote islands, South Africa, and Indonesia were the (Kinnaird 1999), and shipments of poaching still occurs. Poaching can be main countries exporting captive-bred cockatoos were confiscated on Sumba in extremely lucrative, and there is specimens of Cacatua sulphurea. In 1998 and again in 2002 (when 32 were relatively low risk involved in poaching. Indonesia and Singapore, there has been seized). In 2002, an investigation found None of these subspecies is fully a ‘‘sudden turn up of captive bred that one collector in Waikabubak protected from the illegal pet trade. specimens since 1994, the time the legal exported 52 yellow-crested cockatoos to Based on our review, we find that trade in wild specimens stopped’’ other islands (Persulessy et al. 2003 in overutilization, specifically poaching for (CITES 2004, p. 5). In 2004, two captive CITES 2004a, p. 6). In 2002, evidence the pet trade, continues to be a threat to breeding operations of C. sulphurea was found of cockatoo trapping at Cacatua sulphurea throughout its range. were identified in Indonesia: PT. Bali Manupeu and Langgaliru, mainly in the Exotica Fauna and PT. Anak Burung form of snaring. Many nests at Factor C. Disease or Predation Tropikana. Both of these companies Poronumbu even had ladders attached There is no evidence that disease or were located in Bali Province (CITES to them for nest raiding, suggesting that predation is a threat to Cacatua 2004a, p. 5). Currently, however, there trapping activity was relatively high at sulphurea in the wild. Our review did are no CITES-registered operations for this site even in 2002 (Cahill et al. 2006, not find any indication that disease is a breeding C. sulphurea for commercial p. 166). threat to C. sulphurea. With respect to purposes (CITES 2010d, npn.). IPP, a local NGO which is actively predation, two predators, a spotted When the proposal to transfer the working to protect Cacatua sulphurea, kestrel (Falco moluccensis) and a white Cacatua sulphurea from Appendix II to noted specific threats to the subspecies bellied sea-eagle (Haliaeetus Appendix I (CITES CoP13, 2–14 on Solombo kecil Island. They found leucogaster), have been observed October, Bangkok, Thailand) was being that usually nestlings, rather than adult attacking cockatoos (Prijono 2008, pp. considered in 2004, BLI noted in their birds, are taken. According to ProFauna, 4–5). Although C. sulphurea has natural position paper that the difficulty in nestlings are worth 2 to 3 times more predators, to our knowledge, these distinguishing captive-bred birds from than adults (2008, p. 8). Historically, predators are not having a negative wild ones is facilitating both illegal cockatoos were trapped in large impact on the species. After a review of capture from the wild and illegal numbers by outside visitors who took the best scientific and commercial international trading of the captured them to Bali and Sumbawa Islands. information, we conclude that neither birds (BLI 2003). They pointed to

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examples of these birds found in threats to the species. For some nests of Cacatua sulphurea during the markets in Indonesia (BLI 2003 p. 2). subspecies, there are specific local species’ arboreal phase. Observations Between 2000 and 2009, the UNEP– protections in place, but they are have been made of competition between WCMC Trade Database indicated that inadequate to combat the threats facing the dragon and cockatoo when using the 4,837 live specimens of Cacatua the species according to a local NGO tree Sterculia foetida for nesting (Agista sulphurea were exported (subspecies who works on the conservation of this & Rubyanto 2001 in Prijono 2008, p. 4). are unknown). Between the same time species. For example, a local law for the Although individuals of C. sulphurea period, an additional 1,648 live protection of C. s. abbotti exists, which may be subject to occasional specimens of C. s. citrinocristata were IPP assisted in obtaining in 2010 (Metz competition with Komodo dragons, reported to be exported. In 2009 alone, 2010, pers. comm.). there is no evidence that this is 11 live specimens of C. s. citrinocristata With respect to the adequacy of occurring at a level which may affect the were exported from South Africa to the internal government controls within United Arab Emirates, one of the status of C. sulphurea on Komodo Indonesia, we find that they are Island as a whole. countries most frequently importing inadequate (refer to discussion and cockatoos (http://www.unep-wcmc.org/ finding under Factor D for the white Small and Declining Population citestrade). Nearly all of these were cockatoo, which faces the same threats documented as captive-bred, but with respect to this factor). Poaching All four subspecies of Cacatua wildlife laundering does still occur and illegal trade of this species continue sulphurea have very limited geographic (ProFauna 2008; 2010; Cantu´ -Guzma´n et to occur. This species continues to ranges and small, declining populations. al. 2007, 121 pp.) and is quite lucrative. experience population declines, and the Their existing populations are extremely A 2003 IUCN review found that protections in place are inadequate to localized, and sometimes geographically Cacatua sulphurea is readily available protect this species. CITES regulates isolated from one another, leaving them in Indonesian bird markets (BLI 2003, international trade of this species, and vulnerable to localized extinctions from pp. 1–2). Poaching is relatively easy, we have no evidence to suggest that habitat modification and destruction; poverty is widespread, and there is little CITES is inadequate in regulating legal natural catastrophic changes to their incentive or awareness for local trade of this species. Therefore, we find habitat (e.g., flood scour, drought); other communities to conserve their that the inadequacy of regulatory resources. Although the species occurs stochastic disturbances; and decreased mechanisms is a threat to Cacatua within a number of protected areas and fitness from reduced genetic diversity. It sulphurea throughout its range. a recovery plan was initiated in 1998, is likely that fewer than 1,000 to 2,000 declines are still occurring. Birds are Factor E. Other Natural or Manmade individuals representing each still likely smuggled to and exported Factors Affecting Its Continued subspecies remain in the wild; in the from Singapore and the Philippines, at Existence case of C. s. abbotti and C. s. sulphurea, a minimum (ProFauna 2008). Continued there are likely fewer than 100 of each Interspecific Competition trapping and large-scale logging that are subspecies (Metz 2010, pers. comm.) not sufficiently regulated or mitigated The Komodo dragon (Varanus (see Table 3). by the Indonesian government remain komodoensis) preys upon eggs and uses

TABLE 3—YELLOW-CRESTED COCKATOO POPULATION ESTIMATES

Estimated num- Species Where found and date of population estimate ber remaining in the wild

Yellow-crested cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) ...... Indonesia and Timor-Leste ...... 2,500 to 6,000* Subspecies: C. s. abbotti ...... Sulawesi Strait (2010) ...... 30 C. s. citrinocristata ...... Sulawesi Strait (2002) ...... 565 to 2,054 C. s. parvula ...... Sulawesi Strait (2000, 2009) ...... 500 to 2,000 Timor (2000, 2004) ...... 500 C. s. sulphurea ...... Sulawesi Strait (2010) ...... 100 to 150 * Number includes all four subspecies.

Species with limited geographic demographic stochasticity (Gilpin and of individuals in the population ranges and small, declining populations Soule´ 1986, p. 27). (Charlesworth and Charlesworth 1987, are extremely vulnerable. Demographic Genetic stochasticity is caused by p. 231; Shaffer 1981, p. 131). stochasticity may affect this species as changes in gene frequencies due to Environmental stochasticity is defined well, and is defined as chance changes genetic drift, diminished genetic as the susceptibility of small, isolated in the population growth rate for a diversity, effects due to inbreeding (i.e., populations of wildlife species to species (Gilpin and Soule´ 1986, p. 27). inbreeding depression), or a natural levels of environmental Population growth rates are influenced combination of these factors (Lande variability and related ‘‘catastrophic’’ by individual birth and death rates 1995, p. 786). Inbreeding can have events (e.g., severe storms, extreme cold (Gilpin and Soule´ 1986, p. 27), individual or population-level spells, wildfire) (Dunham et al. 1999, p. immigration and emigration rates, and consequences, either by increasing the 9; Mangel and Tier 1994, p. 612; Young changes in population sex ratios. phenotypic expression (the outward 1994, pp. 410–412). Each risk will be Natural variation in survival and appearance, or observable structure, analyzed specifically for each species. reproductive success of individuals and function, or behavior of a living Small, isolated populations of wildlife chance disequilibrium of sex ratios may organism) of recessive, deleterious species that have gone through a act in concert to contribute to alleles or by reducing the overall fitness reduction in population numbers can be

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susceptible to demographic and genetic We found information that poaching and commercial information pertaining problems (Shaffer 1981, pp. 130–134). for the pet trade is also a significant to the five factors, we find that Cacatua These threat factors, which may act in threat to the species. Illegal poaching of sulphurea is in danger of extinction concert, include: Natural variation in the cockatoo for the pet trade is still (endangered) throughout all of its range. survival and reproductive success of common, despite existing laws, Therefore, we propose to list C. individuals; chance disequilibrium of education, and public awareness sulphurea as endangered under the sex ratios; changes in gene frequencies campaigns. Pet birds are an important ESA. part of Indonesian culture, with large due to genetic drift; diminished genetic Available Conservation Measures diversity and associated effects due to numbers of wild-caught parrots traded inbreeding (i.e., inbreeding depression); domestically and internationally. Conservation measures provided to dispersal of just a few individuals; a few Trappers remain active, and wild-caught species listed as endangered or clutch failures; a skewed sex ratio in birds are openly sold in Asian markets threatened under the Act include recruited offspring over just one or a few (Prijono 2008, p. 18). Efforts to curtail recognition, requirements for Federal years; and chance mortality of just a few illegal trade are hampered by protection, and prohibitions against reproductive-age individuals. These Indonesia’s large coastline and certain practices. Recognition through small populations are also susceptible to enforcement officials with limited listing results in public awareness, and natural levels of environmental resources and knowledge. The encourages and results in conservation variability and related catastrophic continuing illegal trade of the cockatoo actions by Federal and State events, which we will refer to as is a threat to the survival of the species. governments, private agencies and environmental stochasticity (Dunham et Therefore, we find overutilization for interest groups, and individuals. al. 1999, p. 9; Mangel and Tier 1994, p. commercial, recreational, scientific, or The ESA and its implementing regulations set forth a series of general 612; Young 1994, pp. 410–412). educational purposes (Factor B) is a threat to Cacatua sulphurea throughout prohibitions and exceptions that apply Based on the best scientific and to all endangered and threatened commercial information available, we its range. We found no evidence that diseases wildlife. These prohibitions, at 50 CFR conclude that Cacatua sulphurea’s very 17.21 and 17.31, in part, make it illegal small and rapidly declining populations significantly affect Cacatua sulphurea in the wild. Other avian species may be for any person subject to the jurisdiction are a threat to the species throughout its of the United States to ‘‘take’’ (includes range, particularly when combined with susceptible to certain diseases, but there is no evidence that disease occurs to an harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, other threats to this species. extent that it is a threat to this species. wound, kill, trap, capture, or to attempt Finding for the Yellow-Crested Predation was not found to affect C. any of these) within the United States or Cockatoo sulphurea populations; however, we upon the high seas; import or export; will continue to monitor this factor. deliver, receive, carry, transport, or ship As required by the ESA, we Based on the best available information, in interstate commerce in the course of considered the five factors in assessing we conclude that neither disease nor commercial activity; or sell or offer for whether Cacatua sulphurea is predation (Factor C) is a threat to the sale in interstate or foreign commerce endangered or threatened throughout all species throughout its range. any endangered wildlife species. It also or a significant portion of its range. We Although Indonesia has a good legal is illegal to possess, sell, deliver, carry, examined the best scientific and framework to manage wildlife and their transport, or ship any such wildlife that commercial information available habitats, implementation of its laws and has been taken in violation of the ESA. regarding the past, present, and future regulatory mechanisms has been Certain exceptions apply to agents of the threats faced by C. sulphurea. We inadequate to address the threats to Service and State conservation agencies. reviewed the petition, information Cacatua sulphurea. Logging laws and Permits may be issued to carry out available in our files, and other policies are frequently ignored and otherwise prohibited activities available published and unpublished rarely enforced, and illegal logging is involving endangered and threatened information. rampant, even occurring in national wildlife species under certain We analyzed the potential threats to parks and nature reserves (Prijono circumstances. Regulations governing Cacatua sulphurea, including habitat 2008). The illegal trade of this species permits for endangered species are loss and habitat degradation, take for the continues to occur. The current range of codified at 50 CFR 17.22. With regard to pet trade, disease and predation, and the C. sulphurea is much smaller than its endangered wildlife, a permit may be inadequacy of regulatory controls. We historical range. The population issued for the following purposes: for found that habitat loss as a result of estimates for each subspecies range from scientific purposes, to enhance the deforestation is a threat to C. sulphurea, 30 to 2,054 individuals. Threats to C. propagation or survival of the species, and the subspecies are declining sulphurea continue, and based on the and for incidental take in connection rangewide. This species faces best available information, the with otherwise lawful activities. For immediate and significant threats, population trends are declining. Thus, threatened species, a permit may be primarily from the destruction and we conclude that inadequate regulatory issued for the same activities, as well as modification of its habitats from logging mechanisms are a threat to C. sulphurea zoological exhibition, education, and (Factor A). Efforts such as reforestation throughout its range. special purposes consistent with the and building of nest boxes may continue Finally, we conclude that small, ESA. to improve the habitat of this species, declining populations of Cacatua which may subsequently increase their sulphurea are a threat to the species, Special Rule numbers. However, no improvement has particularly when combined with the Section 4(d) of the ESA states that the been seen yet as a result of conservation other threats to the species (Factor E). Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) may, efforts (Metz 2010, pers. comm.). We Despite the conservation measures in by regulation, extend to threatened conclude that the present or threatened place, this species faces severe threats, species prohibitions provided for destruction, modification, or and the population trend for this species endangered species under section 9 of curtailment of its habitat or range is a continues to decline. Based on our the ESA. Our implementing regulations significant threat to C. sulphurea. review of the best available scientific for threatened wildlife at 50 CFR 17.31

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incorporate the section 9 prohibitions birds captive-bred in the United States System) information shows 252 white for endangered wildlife, except when a and abroad. Import and export of cockatoos are held in U.S. zoos (ISIS special rule is promulgated. For specimen that have been held in 2008, p. 4). This number is an threatened species, section 4(d) of the captivity prior to the date this species is underestimate, as some zoos do not ESA gives the Secretary discretion to list under the ESA or that was captive- enter data into the ISIS database. We specify the ESA prohibitions and any bred would be allowed without a permit have no information to suggest that exceptions to those prohibitions that are under the ESA provided the provisions interstate commerce activities are appropriate for the species. A special of CITES and WBCA are met. With associated with threats to the white rule allows us to include provisions that respect to captive-bred specimens, the cockatoo or would negatively affect any are tailored to the specific conservation CITES import and export permits would efforts aimed at the recovery of wild needs of the threatened species and need to indicate that the specimen was populations of the species. At the same which may be more or less restrictive not taken from the wild by using a time, the prohibitions on take under 50 than the general provisions at 50 CFR source code on the face of the permit CFR 17.31 would apply under this 17.31. other than U (unknown) or W (taken special rule, and any interstate The proposed special rule for the from the wild). If the specimen was commerce activities that could white cockatoo, in most instances, taken from the wild prior to the date incidentally take cockatoos would adopts the existing conservation this species is listed under the ESA, the require a permit under 50 CFR 17.32. regulatory requirements of CITES and importer or exporter would need to the WBCA as the appropriate regulatory demonstrate that the cockatoo was taken Pet Birds provisions for the import and export of from the wild prior to that date. Under A ‘‘Pre’’-ESA (or ‘‘Pre-Act’’) specimen certain captive white cockatoos. It the special rule, a person would need to of a species is one that was made or would also allow interstate commerce. provide records, receipts, or other obtained prior to the species being listed However, import and export of birds documents when applying for permits under the ESA and has not been taken from the wild after the date this under CITES and WBCA to show the involved in a commercial transaction species is listed under the ESA, take, specimen was held in captivity prior to since that time. Specimens of species and foreign commerce would need to the date this species is listed under the held in captivity or in a controlled meet the requirements of 50 CFR 17.31 ESA. environment on (a) December 28, 1973, and 17.32. ‘‘Take’’ under the ESA We assessed the conservation needs of or (b) the date of publication in the includes both harm and harass. When the white cockatoo in light of the broad Federal Register for a final species applied to captive wildlife, take does protections provided to the species listing, whichever is later, are exempt not include generally accepted animal under the WBCA and CITES. The from prohibitions of the ESA, provided husbandry practices, breeding purpose of the WBCA is to promote the such holding or any subsequent holding procedures, or provisions of veterinary conservation of exotic birds and to or use of the specimen was not in the care for confining, tranquilizing, or ensure that international trade involving course of a commercial activity (any anesthetizing, when such practices, the United States does not harm exotic activity that is intended for profit or procedures, or provisions are not likely birds. The white cockatoo is also gain). An affidavit and supporting to result in injury to the wildlife. When protected by CITES, a treaty which material documenting pre-ESA status conducting an activity that could take or contributes to the conservation of the must accompany the shipment of any incidentally take wildlife, a permit species by monitoring international listed species. A pre-ESA exemption under the ESA is required. trade and ensuring that trade in does not apply to wildlife, including If adopted, the proposed special rule Appendix II species is not detrimental parts and products, offered for sale. In would allow import and export of to the survival of the species (see order to export a pet bird, an owner certain white cockatoos and interstate Conservation Status for the white would need to provide information that commerce of this species without a cockatoo). The best available permit under the ESA as explained commercial data indicate that the the specimen was acquired or held in a below. current threat to the white cockatoo controlled environment on or before (a) Import and export. The proposed stems from illegal trade in the domestic December 28, 1973, or the date when special rule would apply to all and international markets of Indonesia the species was listed, and (b) has not commercial and noncommercial and surrounding countries. Thus, the entered into commerce (e.g., been international shipments of live white general prohibitions on import and bought, sold, or offered for sale by you cockatoos and parts and products, export contained in 50 CFR 17.31, or anyone else) since December 28, including the import and export of which only extend within the 1973, or the date when listed. Any personal pets and research samples. It jurisdiction of the United States, would specimens of an endangered or proposes to allow a person to import or not regulate such activities. Accordingly threatened species born in captivity export a specimen that was held in we find that the import and export from pre-ESA parents are fully protected captivity prior to the date this species is requirements of the proposed special and are not considered pre-ESA. See listed under the ESA or that was rule provide the necessary and http://www.fws.gov/forms/3-200-23.pdf captive-bred provided the import is advisable conservation measures that for additional information. authorized under CITES and the WBCA are needed for this species. Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, and export is authorized under CITES. Interstate commerce. Under the and as implemented by regulations at 50 The terms ‘‘captive-bred’’ and proposed special rule, a person may CFR part 402, requires Federal agencies ‘‘captivity’’ used in the proposed special deliver, receive, carry, transport, ship, to evaluate their actions within the rule are defined in the regulations at 50 sell, offer to sell, purchase, or offer to United States or on the high seas with CFR 17.3 and refer to wildlife produced purchase a white cockatoos in interstate respect to any species that is proposed in a controlled environment that is commerce. Although we do not have or listed as endangered or threatened intensively manipulated by man from current data, we believe there are a large and with respect to its critical habitat, parents that mated or otherwise number of white cockatoos in the if any is being designated. However, transferred gametes in captivity. The United States. Current ISIS given that these species are not native proposed special rule would apply to (International Species Information to the United States, we are not

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designating critical habitat for these (c) Use clear language rather than References Cited species under section 4 of the Act. jargon; A list of all references cited in this Peer Review (d) Be divided into short sections and document is available at http:// sentences; and In accordance with our policy, www.regulations.gov, Docket No. FWS– (e) Use lists and tables wherever ‘‘Notice of Interagency Cooperative R9–ES–2010–0099, or upon request possible. Policy for Peer Review in Endangered from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Species Act Activities,’’ that was If you feel that we have not met these Endangered Species Program, Branch of published on July 1, 1994 (59 FR requirements, send us comments by one Foreign Species (see FOR FURTHER 34270), we will seek the expert opinion of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES INFORMATION CONTACT section). section. To better help us revise the of at least three appropriate Author independent specialists regarding this rule, your comments should be as proposed rule. The purpose of such specific as possible. For example, you The primary authors of this notice are review is to ensure listing decisions are should tell us the names of the sections staff members of the Branch of Foreign based on scientifically sound data, or paragraphs that are unclearly written, Species, Endangered Species Program, assumptions, and analysis. We will send which sections or sentences are too U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. long, the sections where you feel lists or copies of this proposed rule to the peer List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17 reviewers immediately following tables would be useful, etc. publication in the Federal Register. We Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. Endangered and threatened species, will invite these peer reviewers to 3501 et seq.) Exports, Imports, Reporting and comment, during the public comment recordkeeping requirements, period, on the specific assumptions and This proposed rule does not contain Transportation. the data that are the basis for our any new collections of information that Proposed Regulation Promulgation conclusions regarding the proposal to require approval by the Office of list as endangered the Philippine Management and Budget (OMB) under Accordingly, we propose to amend cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia) and the Paperwork Reduction Act. This rule part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title the yellow-crested cockatoo (C. will not impose new recordkeeping or 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, sulphurea), and to list as threatened the reporting requirements on State or local as set forth below: white cockatoo (C. alba), under the ESA. governments, individuals, businesses, or We will consider all comments and organizations. We may not conduct or PART 17—[AMENDED] information we receive during the sponsor, and you are not required to comment period on this proposed rule respond to, a collection of information 1. The authority citation for part 17 during preparation of a final unless it displays a currently valid OMB continues to read as follows: rulemaking. Accordingly, our final control number. Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361–1407; 16 U.S.C. decision may differ from this proposal. 1531–1544; 16 U.S.C. 4201–4245; Pub. L. 99– National Environmental Policy Act (42 625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted. Required Determinations U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) 2. Amend § 17.11(h) by adding new Clarity of Rule We have determined that we do not entries for ‘‘Cockatoo, Philippine,’’ We are required by Executive Orders need to prepare an environmental ‘‘Cockatoo, white,’’ and ‘‘Cockatoo, 12866 and 12988 and by the assessment, as defined under the yellow-crested’’ in alphabetical order Presidential Memorandum of June 1, authority of the National Environmental under BIRDS to the List of Endangered 1998, to write all rules in plain Policy Act of 1969, in connection with and Threatened Wildlife, as follows: language. This means that each rule we regulations adopted under section 4(a) publish must: of the Act. We published a notice § 17.11 Endangered and threatened (a) Be logically organized; outlining our reasons for this wildlife. (b) Use the active voice to address determination in the Federal Register * * * * * readers directly; on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244). (h) * * *

Species Vertebrate popu- Historic range lation where endan- Status When listed Critical Special Common name Scientific name gered or threatened habitat rules

******* BIRDS

******* Cockatoo, Philippine Cacatua Philippines ...... Entire ...... E 786 NA NA haematuropygia. Cockatoo, white ...... Cacatua alba ...... Indonesia ...... Entire ...... T 786 NA 17.41(d) Cockatoo, yellow- Cacatua sulphurea Indonesia and Entire ...... E 786 NA NA crested. Timor-Leste (East Timor).

*******

3. Amend § 17.41 by adding § 17.41 Special rules—birds. (1) Except as noted in paragraphs paragraph (d) to read as follows: * * * * * (d)(2) and (d)(3) of this section, all (d) White cockatoo (Cacatua alba). prohibitions and provisions of §§ 17.31

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and 17.32 of this part apply to the white ‘‘C’’ (bred in captivity), or ‘‘D’’ (bred in prior to the date this species was listed cockatoo. captivity for commercial purposes) (see under the Endangered Species Act of (2) Import and export. You may 50 CFR 23.24); or 1973, as amended. import or export a specimen without a (ii) Specimens held in captivity prior (3) Interstate commerce. Except where permit issued under § 17.32 of this part to the date this species was listed under use after import is restricted under only when the provisions of parts 13, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as § 23.55 of this subchapter, you may deliver, receive, carry, transport, ship, 14, 15, and 23 of this chapter have been amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.): You sell, offer to sell, purchase, or offer to met and you meet the following must provide documentation to purchase in interstate commerce a live requirements: demonstrate that the specimen was held white cockatoo. (i) Captive-bred specimens: The in captivity prior to the date the species source code on the Convention on is listed under the ESA. Such Dated: July 26, 2011. International Trade in Endangered documentation may include copies of James J. Slack, Species of Wild Fauna and Flora receipts, accession or veterinary records, Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (CITES) document accompanying the CITES documents, or wildlife [FR Doc. 2011–19532 Filed 8–8–11; 8:45 am] specimen must be ‘‘F’’ (captive-bred), declaration forms, which must be dated BILLING CODE 4310–55–P

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