Refuge Resources of Concern Cial Dune Cial C

Appendix D

©Kevin Fleming Refuge ResourcesofConcern Hibiscus bee Refuge Resources of Concern cial dune cial c. This association Community is globally ranked as G2, found on maritime dunes from Long Island, south to NC. Over this range less than 3,000 acres currently exist. Limiting factors include trampling by people and trafﬁ ATV is highly fragile and does not recover well from these types of human uses and impacts. Overwash dunes of mid- barrier island Atlantic habitats are G2-G3 ranked and DE S2/S3. This community is restricted to overwash dunes developed on coastal beach habitats & NC. of DE, MD VA Restricted to specialized habitat it is threatened by a number of human activities especially artiﬁ stabilization.

to other A. breviligulata, S. Solidago sempervirens). patens) and seaside uence of spring tides and with salt meadow cordgrass

O puntia humifusa. Ammophilia breviligulata) Spartina Natural Processes responsible for these conditions later successional a drier, Forms phase beginning from water- deposited sands from storm overwash. Sand movement, plant burial, and dune formation rates differ from dune grasslands dominated by American Beachgrass Limiting Factors ( Eolian processes cause active sand deposition and erosion. This community generally occurs on foredunes that receive the force of but is beyond wind and salt spray, the inﬂ most storm surges. Diagonostic plant species are amarum,sempervirens Panicum and areas ( goldenrod ( Storm overwash and dune blowouts from surf surges and wind erosion are the prevalent natural disturbances of this community. , and Spartina Other and Cenchrus tribuloides, , Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime Baccharis halimifolia Solidago sempervirens, Cakile edentula, Panicum amarum. Panicum or Piping Plover, Red Knot, American Piping Plover, Beach-Dune Tiger Beetle. ngers” developed at regular intervals, I. BARRIER ISLAND BEACH HABITATS – 439 ACRES – 439I. HABITATS BARRIER ISLAND ACRES BEACH 4/3/2012 and scattered where overwashed by sand. Schoenoplectus pungens to the bay shoreline and protruding into the 0 are dominants, in early successional expressions of dune Table D-1. Summary of Biological Integrity, Diversity, and Environmental Health (BIDEH) Elements for Elements and Environmental (BIDEH) Summary Health D-1. Diversity, Table Integrity, Biological of Population/Habitat Attributes (Age Class, Structure, Serial Attributes Population/Habitat Stage, Species Composition A series of small dune “ﬁ oriented @ 90 salt marsh. These overwash and blow-out areas are both recently deposited and devoid of vegetation, or may be older w/ well-established vegetation. Species: Focal Potential Black Skimmer, Sanderling, Least Tern, Oystercatcher, Coastal Plain Tern, Forster’s American Black Duck, Willet, Common Night Hawk; Horseshoe Crab, Swamp Sparrow, Beach-Dune Tiger Beetle, Northern Diamondback Terrapin Species: Focal Potential patens overwash. As vegetation develops, other associates found on the refuge include Triplasis purpurea seedlings. associated plant species include Community is a maritime dune grassland dominated by Ammophila breviligulata Triplasis purpurea, Cenchrus tribuloides, Chamaesyce polygonifolia, Cakile edentula, Nuttallanthus canadensis Cyperus grayi, 50 A

Habitats and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Overwash Grassland Dunes: Beachgrass and Panic- grass Dune Grassland Association: 35 A

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-1 Refuge Resources of Concern ed ooding Habitat Loss and Most Fragmentation; occurrences near refuge have been destroyed by coastal development Prime of Slaughter, Hook & Broadkill Beach communities., These soils are sandy and dry enough that they are not classifi as “jurisdictional wetlands.” Remaining occurrences are highly fragmented, represented by very small and isolated patches. Storm surges can cause shrub die-back. Heavy salt spray & tidal fl often causes die-back of shrub layer bayward. This association grades into high salt marsh dominated by herbaceous vegetation. Landward, shrub cover Invasive becomes denser. species encroachment problematic. Invertebrate communities susceptible to negative impacts from adulticides (Naled ). ooded ) Reference sites Note: ooded mesohaline (5- Natural Processes responsible for these conditionsThis community is not tidally fl and occurs beyond the reach of most storm tides, but it is impacted by wind erosion and sand salt spray, movements. ( in Delaware = Great Marsh Lewes & Prime Hook NWR in Milton. Limiting Factors The tidal shrublands are characteristic of diurnal to irregularly fl 18 ppt) systems. Soils are layers of accumulated peat of variable depths overlying sands. Communities occur in estuarine margins and form an ecotone between salt marsh & upland vegetation.

or both and (S1), is the & other Herbaceous (State Record) hirsutior var. var. Prunus serotina. Spartina patens Baccaris halimifolia Baccharis halimifolia . or Rhus copallinum. Catocala muliercula

Spartina patens, Panicum virgatum, Spartina patens, Panicum and Catocala muliercula

ats & interdunal swales. Substrate is sand and short stems of Morella cerifera Iva frutescens

Morella cerifera Population/Habitat Attributes (Age Class, Structure, Serial Attributes Population/Habitat Stage, Species Composition This association occurs on maritime barrier islands’ protected backdunes, barrier ﬂ is Vegetation to loamy sand w/ thin layer of organic matter. characterized by moderately open to densely closed canopy of hydropiperoides, & Distichlis Juncus effuses, Polygonum spicata. Species: Focal Potential invertebrate fauna dependent on this habitat type & heavily utilized by migratory songbirds. Dominated by growing in association with salt marshes. Other associated shrubs include Conservation Target Other canopy associates include Juniperus virginiana layer characterized by Andropogon virginicus, A. virginicus characteristic dominant grass with other herbaceous associates: virgatum, Distichlis spicata, Hibiscus moscheutos, Panicum canadenses, Cuscuta gronovii, & Solidago Tercrium sempervirens. Habitats and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Coast Atlantic Interdune Swale: 67 A Irregularly Flooded Eastern Tidal Salt Shrub: ~ 60 Acres

D-2 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern cial dune cial This Coastal Dune community is very rare in DE (S1) and also Globally Rare (G2). Artifi stabilization, commercial & residential development as its greatest threats. The invertebrate fauna associated with this community is threatened from annual adulticides applications that occur in and around community locations. nes this nes uenced by onshore Natural Processes responsible for these conditionsThe dominance of red cedar and its maritime location defi Maritime Red Cedar community. is infl Woodland sand deposition, winds and salt spray, and tidal overwash from severe storms. Golden heather grows where Limiting Factors soils are hot, sandy and nutrient poor. Plant species diversity is low in these areas due to stressful environmental conditions.

Southern ). Vegetation ). Vegetation Hudsonia cant as the only Quercus stellata, = Good indicator infrequent canopy Juniperus virginiana) Hudsonia tomentosa Little glassy wing (tier 2) and Wallengrenia otho (S1), Wallengrenia

Delaware skipper (tier 2). Drasteria graphica (S1S3) Pompeius verna, Pompeius – S1) and its population size is signiﬁ of variable heights but trees are generally shorter than 4 start to colonize areas behind sand dunes meters tall. Trees and upper edges of salt marshes. Red cedar either forms pure stands and/or grows in association with Prunus serotina, Amelanchier canadensis & Ilex opaca. Piuns taeda, Q. phellos & Diospyros virginiana associates. In Delaware this NVCS community is one of the best remaining examples of this cover-type. This community supports the state rare plant golden heather ( was Cape other known occurrence on the Delmarva Peninsula A close relative to golden-heather also Henlopen State Park. occurs here, beach heather ( ericoides community supports unique and uncommon invertebrate fauna listed below: Population/Habitat Attributes (Age Class, Structure, Serial Attributes Population/Habitat Stage, Species Composition Community dominated by red cedars ( Species: Focal Potential species of high quality Maritime Red Cedar Woodland Habitat; Anatrytone logan, Broken Dash, Habitats and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Maritime Red Cedar Woodland 76 A

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-3 Refuge Resources of Concern Limited range in mid- to north of from VA Atlantic NJ. In Delaware Cape May, this community is known from the Mispillion River, south into the Inland Bays Region. Historic habitat has been eliminated by human development. Natural Processes responsible for these conditionsThis is a tall deciduous shrub-scrub forest. The physiognomy varies ranging from open dramatically, woodland to stunted forest dense impenetrable thicket. Individual trees are wind-pruned and multi-stemmed, and are subjected to wind erosion Limiting Factors salt spray to varying degrees. This association occupies a transitional zone between maritime forest and the low maritime shrublands connected to dune associations.

plus eastern little bluestem Solidago Pinus taeda and pensylvanica) ed state species of great stout wood reedgrass Panicum virgatum), Panicum and rattlesnake hawkweed amarulum), var. var. Catolcala muliercula. switchgrass ( ), and seaside goldenrod ( the are dominant shrub species. Other Diospyros virginiana Morella cerifera . Where trees form a closed canopy herbaceous Chasmanthium laxum), Polygonella articulate), Polygonella Schizachyrium scoparium [Andropogon scoparius], Hieracium venosum Population/Habitat Attributes (Age Class, Structure, Serial Attributes Population/Habitat Stage, Species Composition This community is found on the leeward side of secondary dunes with substrate varying from pure sand directly adjacent to Delaware Bay well-drained loamy sands in more sheltered areas. Community is a stunted forest of blackcherry, sweetgum, and red maple with a shrub layer dominated by bayberry shrubs ( Species and identiﬁ Focal Potential conservation need (SGCN): Smilax rotundifolia associates include in varying portions.Where trees from an open canopy the herbaceous layers are diverse and characterized by slender spikegrass ( (Cinna arundinacea), amarum panic beachgrass (P. ( sempervirens) plants are sparse or lacking. jointweed ( ( Habitats and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Successional Maritime Forest (184 A)

D-4 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern G4G5 re suppression & Status: DE: SNR. This type of oak forest is uncommon in Delaware’s state landscape & mature examples are rare. All stands are vulnerable to ﬁ logging disturbances. State Reference Sites are Milford Neck and Prime Hook NWR; Protect invertebrate fauna from exposure to Naled and Dimilin applications when possible as these chemicals have adverse impacts on invertebrate communities.

Pinus nd is related to re is an important Natural Processes responsible for these conditionsDistribution in mid- Coastal Atlantic Plain is mainly 2 growth successional Limiting Factors forests following logging or agricultural cropping. Periodic fi natural disturbance in this forest type & encourages oak regeneration. The relative cover of taeda disturbance history, w/ higher pine cover suggesting more recent disturbance from farming or logging. Gaylussacia Catocala The Other tree associates Quercus alba, Q. falcata Aralia spinosa. and Cypripedium acaule, Chimaphila Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime (Host plant = Hercules Club). forming the subcanopy. The shrub layer is forming the subcanopy. orida (County Record = Long-Horned Beetles or II. FORESTED HABITATS – UPLAND HABITATS II. FORESTED SITES Acres ~ 775 4/3/2012 Characteristic understory species of this association are Sassafras albidum, Q. coccinea, Q .stellata, Liquidambar Acer rubrum,ua, Nyssa sylvatica, Carya spp & Pinus taeda, w. well-developed and dominated by members of heath family ( spp) [baccata & pallidum], Vaccinum herbaceous layer is sparse with some maculate & Gaultheria procumbens. Oak forest of unglaciated NE coastal plain. On refuge occurs on well- drained acidic soils, primarily loamy sands, sandy loams and silty/clay loams. Canopy dominated by a mixture of oaks ( & Q. velutina). Gaylussacia frondosa & Pteridium aquilinum. include styracifl Ilex opaca & Cornus fl Interior Dwelling Species: DFS, breeding Forest Focal Potential Birds, migrating and wintering landbirds. Prionus laticollis Cerambycids not ranked in Delaware but species is considered an indicator species of mature healthy forest; 2 rare moths, aralia lacrymosa & Papaipema Table D-2. Summary of Biological Integrity, Diversity, and Environmental Health (BIDEH) Elements for for Elements D-2. and EnvironmentalTable (BIDEH) Summary Health Diversity, Integrity, Biological of Habitat and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEHSouthern Red Oak: 289 A Heath Forest (Structure, Species Composition) Attributes Population/Habitat

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-5 Refuge Resources of Concern ora Rose ora This community typically occurs in a fragmented setting, so it is more prone to exotic species encroachment. On refuge, invasive species that out-compete native species include Japanese Stiltgrass, Multiﬂ and M-A-M; High density of deer overbrowsing understory, reducing diversity and hampering natural oak regeneration.

nd & 2 st Natural Processes responsible for these conditions drained sand Poorly generally makes up the soil substrates for this community and Limiting Factors a high water table is often present. This association grades into drier upland oak forests. State Reference Sites in Delaware include Milford Neck and Prime Hook NWR. Unique features on refuge of these forest patch-types support exceptionally large trees found in the County/State averaging 35 dbh inches (1 Hills) w/ largest tree 53 Oak) inch dbh (Willow on Oak Island. Ilex Gaylussacia

stout wood patridge berry Gaultheria procumbens). Quercus falcata, Q. phellos, a patchy shrub layer draped Subcanopy dominated by Leersia virginica), Osmunda regalis), ua. and teaberry ( royal fern ( Pinus taeda, Q. michauxii, P. serotina, Q. nigra, Pinus taeda, Q. michauxii, P.

. Herb layer is sparse w/ slender spikegrasss Virginia cutgrass ( Virginia Leucothoe racemosa forms Cinna arundinacea), and Smilax rotundifolia Mitchella repens) , Chasmanthium laxum), ( frondosa, w/ ( weedgrass ( This community is a mesic oak forest of the central Atlantic Coastal. On This community is a mesic oak forest of the central Atlantic refuge, this community borders wetland habitats that have sandy soils w/ a high water table (wetter than previous community). Refuge areas have mesic to poorly drained soils & the presence of willow Oak and Swamp Chestnut Oak distinguish this community from Southern Red Oak/Heath Canopy dominants include community. Forest Q.palustris & Liquidambar styraciﬂ corymbosum & Amelanchier canadensis. opaca, Vaccinium This forest community on the refuge is also known to support and Second Hills First exceptionally large trees in “Gum Woods,” Oak Island sites that include the following examples: southern red oak (39 bdh), willow oak (53 dbh), pin ( 45 water (29 black walnut (24 dbh), and pond pine (30 dbh). Q. alba & Acer rubrum. Habitat and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEHMesic Coastal Plain (193 A) Oak Forest (Structure, Species Composition) Attributes Population/Habitat

D-6 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern , ora Morella spp) mostly G3 rose & honeysuckle can degrade the ground story and shrub layers of this Protect inverts community. from Mosquito drift of & Dimilin Adulticides applications. Protect from over abundant deer populations and excessive browsing. Fragmentation due to Fragmentation historic logging and agricultural practices. Encroachment by invasives such as Japanese stiltgrass, multifl because of bayberry shrub component ( this community is under represented across state and regional landscapes. This coastal community is limited to the mid-Atlantic & states of DE, MD, VA NC. These forests are restricted to a narrow geographic range and are very vulnerable to development pressure, degradation from intensive ag practices, and recreational use demands. Ranked ed re encourages oak Development of this community type is associated with rich loamy soils, high in nutrients with a mid- range pH. Natural disturbance of periodic fi regeneration & enriches herbaceous diversity. Community is typifi by a prevalence of tuliptree in the canopy. Community is locally rare in Sussex County. Natural Processes responsible for these conditionsMaritime community occurs on sand dunes, upper edges of coastal marsh areas. The Limiting Factors substrate is rapidly moist sands or sandy loams which are nutrient poor.

ua, use

Botrychium Chasmanthium ower) Herbaceous species orida, Aralia spinosa Sassafra Q. falcata, alba, Carya alba Platanthera lacera. is found here plus rare climbing are co-dominants in the subcanopy. are co-dominants in the subcanopy. Vines are always present, dominated Vines Unique herbaceous vine (Canada Carya glabra. Liquidambar styracifl Parthenocissus quinquefolia. Parthenocissus orida w/ scattered Viburnum prunifolium, Lindera benzoin. and plus (S3-yellow passion fl Ilex opaca, Cornus fl Herbaceous layer dominants include Shrub layer is well-developed where canopy more B. dissectum. Pinus taeda, Photuris frontalis, Zale metatoides, and Z. metata; and Menispermum canadense ora lutea ora Asplenum platyneuron, Circaea lutetiana, Senecio tomentosus

Passiﬂ Vitis aestivalis. Vitis include and the rare (S3- green fringe orchis) Herb layer is diverse and includes a number of species restricted to this forest type on the Coastal Plain. Indicator species include biternatum Moonseed) vine Shrub layer dominated by Tuliptree rich woods are associated with loamy soils dominated by Tuliptree Liriodendron tulipifera, Circaea lutetiana & Cornus ﬂ albidum & Magnolia virginiana. by The physiognomy of this association varies from dense tall shrub thickets to salt-pruned loblolly trees. Canopy is dominated by Wax-myrtle dominated by virginiana. & P. open, dominated by virgatum, Eupatorium hyssopifolium, Cypripedium laxum, Panicum acaule, Mitchella repens, Species: DFS, breeding and migrating landbird Focal Potential species and rare invertebrate fauna as possible indicators of environmental health. Northern Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Hardwood Forest 35 A Habitat and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain Loblolly Pine 51A Forest (Structure, Species Composition) Attributes Population/Habitat

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-7 Refuge Resources of Concern ora rose ora Phalaris . ora rose, mile-a- Exotic encroachment of Lespedeza, Multifl and Japanese Stiltgrass; Habitat containing rare milkweed also contains well-established reed canary grass ( arundinacea) Fragmentation due to Fragmentation logging & agricultural practices. On refuge fragmented landscape setting is prone to invasion by exotic species, esp. multifl minute weed, and Japanese stiltgrass. Habitat type is also rapidly disappearing at County & State Level due to development. Manage deer populations to prevent excessive overbrowsing. L. mature, they ua begin to assume the characteristics of more natural community types. Over time, sweetgum declines and is replaced by oaks, hickories, and/or pines. These associations are found on uplands that have been heavily impacted by agriculture or other severe disturbances and are recovering. As the stands of styracifl This community often develops where soils are moist. Forest community type usually found on soils that moderately drained, and characterized by acidic, sandy and silt loams derived from parent material of low to moderate fertility. Maintenance of closed- canopy conditions best to sustain forest structure and composition. Natural Processes responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors

(Mitchella common lowbush blueberry Asclepis lanceolata; Herb layer includes downy rattlesnake-plantain Pinus taeda, P.virginiana & Pinus taeda, P.virginiana partridge-berry , sometimes to the exclusion of (Carex swanii), and ora Ilex opaca). as associates; Understory dominated orum). Tipularia discolor), Carya spp Vaccinium corymbosum), Vaccinium

Swan’s sedge Quercus alba, Q. rubra, & Liriodendron tulipifera Cypripedium acaule), Polygonatum bifl Polygonatum y orchid ( and American holly ( Liquidambar styracifl Understory composition differ based on edaphic site factors cranefl Fagus grandifolia Fagus V. pallidum), V. This population contains over 100 individuals and is the largest known population of this species on the Delmarva Peninsula. Acer rubrum. (ranging from mesic to dry on a wide variety of generally acidic soils). A portion of successional sweetgum forest (SE Hdqrts) contains an open, early successional grassland-like habitat within the sweetgum forest. The state rare plant lance-leaf orange milkweed (S-1)- other species or stands are codominated by Solomon’s-seal ( These communities result from succession following human activities of timber harvesting and clearing for agriculture. Stands are either dominated by pink lady’s-slipper ( by highbush blueberry ( ( repens), (Goodyera pubescens), This community is distinguished by a mixture of decidous hardwood especially of tuliptree, American beech, and oaks. It is a mixed mesophytic forest dominated by with Successional Sweetgum Forest 154 A; Mid- to Late Atlantic Successional Loblolly Pine- Sweetgum Forest 24A; Red Maple:Sweetgum 3A Forest Habitat and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Mesic Mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain Mixed Hardwood 19 A Forest (Structure, Species Composition) Attributes Population/Habitat

D-8 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Fire suppression, invasive Fire plant species encroachment and agricultural runoff causing eutrophication. ooded shallow basins. Natural Processes responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors This community is located in saturated soils, often with Fire standing water. may have been an important ecological force in shaping this community which occurs in seasonally ﬂ Substrates are acidic, gleyed to mottled sandy or clay loams that develop in standing water for part of the year. and ,

(Photinia can be found Leucothoe racemosa red chokeberry Common herbs include

Pinus serotina , and sweetbay magnolia . The understory has red maple ua) The uncommon Walter’s greenbrier The uncommon Walter’s L.styraciﬂ Pinus serotina The shrub layer is dense and dominated by occupies the vine layer. occupies the vine layer. Vaccinium corymbosum), Vaccinium sweetgum ( Clethra alnifolia. , . Other shrub layer associates include Smilax walteri) ( Acer rubrum), A diagnostic feature of this community is pond pine as the main canopy species with an understory of red maples. This association is located in Unit III. Although around Flaxhole Pond in a few other locations Delaware, the refuge location is only site where there is a well-developed community in the state. This is open and dominated by ( (Magnolia virginiana). highbush blueberry ( pyrifolia) Itea virginica (S3) virginica, Osmunda regalis, Carex atlantica, C. lurida, Woodwardia Sagittaria latifolia. Habitat and Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Pine Pond Woodland (7.5A) PondPine Sweetbay Highbush (Structure, Species Composition) Attributes Population/Habitat Blueberry/ Prickly Bog Sedge Association

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-9 Refuge Resources of Concern uence encroachment also This community may be successional due to water level management and impoundment infrastructure. Occasional storm surges may also infl community composition. Phragmites a problem. cial uenced Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions.Most of the substrate is saturated peat and muck characterized by hummock- and-hollow microtopography. Prime Hook Creek was historically tidally infl Limiting Factors up until 1983 when PHC became enclosed w/in a 2,500 freshwater impoundment. Maintenance and survival of this community may be dependent on artifi hydrological conditions created within a closed non- tidal freshwater impounded ecosystem.

occur and Carex Catocala cardinal Platanthera . The understory along Alnus maritima, Leucothoe racemosa plus rare plants listed and mild water-pepper Carpenter Frog (S1), and weak stellate sedge ( Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime Birds: Kentucky Warbler, Warbler, Birds: Kentucky Alnus maritima (S3), Dulichium arundinaceum) Triadenum walteri), Acer rubrum Sacciolepis striata (S2). seaside alder III. FORESTED WETLANDIII. FORESTED - 1,237 HABITATS ACRES 4/3/2012 Osmunda regalis), three-way sedge ( Lobelia cardinalis) Polygonum hydropiperoides) Polygonum ower ( ower Cope’s Gray Tree frog (S1), Ribbon Snake Rough Green Snake (S2), Sphinx Moth (S1S3), Great Hairstreak (S1), Delaware Skipper & Purple praeclara. Rare Plants: green fringe orchis ( lacera-S3), gibbous grass Prothonotary Warbler, Yellow-throated Vireo, Vireo, Yellow-throated Prothonotary Warbler, Cerulean Warbler Chimney Swift, Acadian Flycatcher, (SEN), migrating and (SEN), Swainson’s Warbler wintering landbirds. Indicator Species: Potential Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) This community is a low-growing, partially open to saturated woodland basin swamp bordering a 7-mile freshwater non-tidal creek (Prime Hook Creek). It is mostly dominated by creekside edges is dominated by Decodon verticillatus, Clethra alnifolia, Morella cerifera, Cephalanthus occidentalis, Speces = Focal Potential as associates in the shrub layer. Herbaceous layer includes as associates in the shrub layer. Wlater’s St John’s wort ( ﬂ ( seorsa) royal fern ( below. Table D-3. Summary of Biological Integrity, Diversity, and Environmental Health (BIDEH) Elements for D-3. Elements Table and Environmental (BIDEH) Summary Health Diversity, Integrity, Biological of Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent existing BIDEH Red Maple Seaside Alder Swamp 799 A

D-10 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Phragmites; Invasive Exotics like M-A-M & Alteration and drying by drainage ditching for farming and mosquito control activities; Negative impacts of drift of are Dimilin or Adulticides lethal to rare and common invertebrate species. Coastal community ooding rd Note: ooded forest ooded Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions.This association is a seasonally fl of shallow basins or depressions of the Coastal Plain of the Delaware fl Periodic Bay. Limiting Factors of depressions result in substrates that are acidic, gleyed to mottled, sandy or clay loams with a very high water table. yet to be named, clumped in Coastal Plain Depression Swamp association. Plain Ponds, (also known as Plain Ponds, Carolina or Delmarva Bays) are unique, isolated non-tidal freshwater wetlands w/in a forested area. Three were inventoried on the refuge (Buttonbush & Swamp Cottonwood Coastal Plain and a 3 Ponds Iris Leucothoe ag iris [ New York New York Common Acer rubrum, and blue-fl and netted chain Other associates include ycatcher; and migrating State rare plants include Osmunda regalis), ua, Quercos phellos, Nyssa Carex typhina (S3)], Shrub layer is characterized by ora, Magnolia virginiana, Ilex opaca & Thelypteris noveboracensis), areolata). Woodwardia Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Signature trees of this community include Liquidambar styracifl Species include breeding populations Focal Potential yellow- Prothonotary warbler, warbler, of Kentucky Acadian fl throated warbler, and wintering landbirds. Rare invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians same as found in red maple/seaside alder swamp association. sylvatica & Prunus serotina. Nyssa bifl Pinus taeda. corymbosum, Clethra alnifolia, racemosa, Vaccinium Ilex verticillata & Rhodendron viscosum. herbs include royal fern ( fern ( fern ( cattail sedge [ prismatica (S3)]. Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent existing BIDEH Coastal Plain Depression Swamp (New Name =RedMaple/ Sweetgum Swamp) 335 A

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-11 Refuge Resources of Concern re in order to Development pressures and encroachment of exotic invasive species. Habitat Loss & Fragmentation; Encroachment of Invasive Species; This community is known to require fi Rx burns regenerate; Periodic may help make community more robust, but adequate precautions must be taken to protect extant rare faunal species. lling in with cial origin due to Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions.Maritime coastal wetland forest areas occur in back dune depressions with high water tables and along fringes of estuaries from may Delaware to NC. Fire Limiting Factors once have been an important ecological force in this community. This open-canopy Atlantic white-cedar swamp occurs along streams of the It Delmarva Peninsula. is found along PHC area w/in Unit III 2,500 acre impounded freshwater marsh. These communities were once cedar-swamp streams now fi peat substrate, herbs and may be Seaside Alder, of artifi impounding the area since 1983.

Soils S2,

Alnus oating Drosera Rhynchospora Acer and the rare Understory S2 and several S2, ua. Morella cerifera, Developed fl Xyris difformis, Juncus in association with Carpenter Frog, Cope’s Gray associated with Eriocaulon compressum S2, and the extremely rare coast (southern twayblade) as main plant S2, Juncus pelocarpus oor. oor. S2, Juncus militaris. Eriocaulon decangulare, Liquidambar styracifl Nyssa sylvatica, Ilex opaca, Magnolia Pinus taeda S2 as an understory species on community Carex exilis. R. scirpoides and/or Woodwardia areolata & W. virginica areolata & W. Woodwardia S2, Listera australis F. squarrosa F. Chamaecyparis thyoides mats w/in this swamp association have unique and rare species assemblage including Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Myrtle/ Royal Refuge association is Loblolly Pine/Wax with a closed to partially open canopy Forest Fern dominated by rubrum The tree canopy is characterized by low-stature (<30 m) maritima as well in canopy edges adjacent to open water, gaps. Other woody associates include Ilex glabra, Clethra alnifolia, & Alnus serrulata. The herbaceous layer is very diverse, comprised of virginica, Nymphaea Decodon verticillatus, Peltandra odorata, Glycera obtuse, Carex atlantica rare plants: S1 rotundifolia, pumila canadensis, Fimbristylis autumnalis, Fuirena S3, alba ophioglossoides Pogonia sedge, S1- Species: Focal Potential species on forest fl All forested wetland communities listed are extremely important to both short-distance and long-distance migratory and wintering landbird species. Treefrog, Ribbon Snake, Rough Green Snake species include virginica, Morella cerifera & Smilax walteri (S3). (S3) are characterized by moderately shallow muck (15 cm) overlying organic matter-stained sands. Herbs are sparse with Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent existing BIDEH Coastal Loblolly Pine Forest Wetland 91A White-Cedar Atlantic Seaside Alder Swamp 10 A

D-12 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Japanese stilt grass invasive and agricultural runoff (pesticides, nitrates & phosphates) have contributed to degrading this community; Excessive Beaver damage to Cottonwood trees. ll Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions.This community occupies shallow depressions that ﬁ Limiting Factors with water in the late fall and winter then dry in the summer. A, Populus Populus Liquidambar It is codominated and seedlings and Catocala marorata (S1, Herbaceous layer is dominated by Decodon verticillatus. & Few species in the understory, mostly species in the understory, Few ua. ; Both state & globally rare; host plant = Swamp Acre rubrum, Quercus palustris, Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) This community is a small isolated non-tidal freshwater wetland developing in a depression dominated by heterophylla Species: Focal Potential G3) Cottonwood, highlighting extremely important interaction between this plant & Marbled Underwing Moth. by styraciﬂ rubrum & Fraxinus pennsylvancia Clethra alnifolia. Microstegium vimineum & Polygonum hydropiperoides. Microstegium vimineum & Polygonum Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent existing BIDEH Swamp Cottnwood (2 A) Coastal Plain Pond

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-13 Refuge Resources of Concern

and ; Phragmites Exotic plant invasions, especially Ludwigia leptocarpa. quality issues due to Water eutrophication both from on- sources, refuge and off-refuge Mercury contamination of wetlands through atmospheric depostion; Ground-water depletion due to large commercial irrigation systems adjacent to refuge lands; Invertebrate communities should be protected from applications. Adulticide ux due ux This habitat cover type is a composite of several smaller perennial plant communities, surrounded by annual moist-soil plants that are continually in ﬂ Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors to dynamic hydrology, created by water level management and seasonal manipulations, climatic and seasonal storm severities.

y, refl co- fi halbeard- fall panicum beggarticks Additional Additional c plant c mild water pepper Small patches of um) ofi Eleocharis spp), Zizania aquatica, orum), etc. (Sium suave) Ischnura kellicotti (S2). Peltandra virginica), Peltandra Photuris pensylvanica Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime Pilea pumila) and (Helianthus angustifolius) and seasonal annual moist soil plants Echinochloa walteri,) This species is declining in the Leersia oryzoides, Amaranthus (Sesuvium maritimum) Polygonum arifl Polygonum IV. WETLAND – 6,456IV. HABITATS Acres 4/3/2012 ower spike rushes ( Acornus calamus) arrow-arum (

ag ( ag Panicum dichlorormifl Panicum hemlock water-parsnip Canada richweed ( sweetfl swamp sunfl sea purslane • • • • • P. hydropiperoides), P. ( Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Marsh Rice Freshwater Wild leaf tearthumb ( like barnyard grass ( Species: Migrating & wintering Focal Potential (spring & fall); 6 key perennial Ducks; migrant CAGOs vegetation communities support the Bronze Copper (Lycaena hyllus). Delaware Estuary and the refuge is maintaining best state occurrences w/in its impounded marshes in the state; also true for Lycaena hyllus (S1), dominant w/ Diverse native plant communities also support diverse invertebrate species associated with specifi communities. (Bidens laevis), latifolia, Impatiens angustifolia, T. cannabinus, Typha punctatum. sagittatum, P. capensis, P. rare (S1-S3) plant populations and other vascular plants are scattered throughout impounded emergent wetlands Some demonstrating considerable native plant diversity. examples include: associates include grass ( Table D-4.Table for and Environmental Elements Summary Health Diversity, Integrity, Biological of Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Emergent Wetlands/Moist- soil Impoundments (2946 A)/ (1554 A) Water

D-14 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern lling . In G2 Global Ranking Delaware, Heritage scientists rank this community for protection, as it is increasing rare in the state due to fact that coastal plain ponds are not legally regulated; Also ponds are vulnerable to destruction via ditching, draining, ﬁ and agricultural runoff causing eutrophication. They are also threatened by hydrologic alteration (groundwater depletion). Hydromorphic coastal pond plain community is limited to the Atlantic Coastal Plain from southern New England to Maryland. These wetlands are important ground-water recharge areas. Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors

(Ludwigia Depressional seedboxes Iris primatica Eleocharis robbinsii Nymphaea odorata), Utricularia spp). Carex typhina (S3) ag iris (S3)

Brasenia schreberi) and bladderworts ( Slender blue-ﬂ Robbin’s spikerush (S3) Cattail sedge • • • Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) also provide habitat for several state-rare plants: Ponds watershiedl ( spp), These are non-tidal, isolated, freshwater depressional wetlands with substrates that are a deep muck, some areas of mucky sand and sand. Characteristic vegetation includes fragrant waterlily ( Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Coastal Plain Ponds Coastal Plain Ponds (Freshwater Depressional ( 10-A) Ponds)

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-15 Refuge Resources of Concern These sites support many state (DE) and globally rare plant species, associated rare invertebrates and are also valuable in supporting rare amphibian species that are maintain this found here. To habitat for rare plants and animals, active management of woody vegetation and control of non-native invasives encroaching along the perimeter as well in the interior of these peat-mat communities is recommended (DNHP 2007). Sphagnum mbriatum, S recurvum, Unique and rare community type that occurs on deep, mucky peat that forms in open- water depressions within impounded marsh, and/or seeps within a shrub dominated swamp matrix. Natural succession from open water to peatland forested wetland. Early successional versions have thinner peat layers and less species-richness. mosses documented Peat here include ﬁ & S. perichaetile. Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors . ] Megamelus species (S1)

Smilax walteri, ora of Delaware and Eriocaulon decangulare hirsutior ora include: ora Nannothemis bella (S1), var. (Photuris pyralomimus, oristically diverse habitat on

Nannothernis bella) is dominant herb. Associated y species y Scattered shrubs include refl Eriophorum virginicum Bidens coronata, B. n skimmer [S1] ( Elfi Lilypad forktail [S1] (Ischnura kellicotti) Sphagnum Sprite [S1] (Nehalennia gracilis) Several fi tremulans, and frontalis) New leafhopper species Delphacidae, currently being described. (S1) Andropogon glomeratus In addition, a subspecies new to the fl Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Species: Focal Potential The refuge contains several examples of Twig Rush/ The refuge contains several examples of Twig Cotton Grass Herbaceous Pipewort/Tawny Ten-Angle which are the most fl Veg: the refuge and in state with 66 species varieties documented, supporting 24 state-rare plant species (See HMP Appendix ? for comprehensive plant list). Cladium mariscoides herbaceous plants include (S1) Sphagnum Sprite (S1), Photuris pensylvanica (S2), P. tremulans (s1), Xestia youngii (S1) & Exyra fax (S1). & mitis, Sagittaria engelmanniana, Rhynchospora alba, Spiranthes cernua, Eleocharis robbinsii & Bartonia paniculata. Clethra alnifolia, S. laurifolia & Alnus maritima. was discovered here: Bushy Bluestem Delmarva Peninsula [ associated with fl Rare Fauna • • • • • ora cant Most signifi ➜ Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH community-type found on refuge with respect to fl and faunal diversity. Peat-Mat (Bog) Peat-Mat Communities (10 A) DNHP:

D-16 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Phragmites. Rare in state Habitat Degradation & Loss; Invasive species encroachment, mostly M-A-M & Morella spp. landscape & serves as host plant for rare inverts. Major limiting factor would be salt-water intrusion; Invasive species encroachment. Globally Ranked as (G3); Few occurrences in mid-Atlantic region as acreage is very small; community is threatened by groundwater alteration & agricultural runoff & drainage ditches. rm, will form a Decodon Small basin wetlands that drawdown entirely during dry years; most of the Coastal Plain ponds are sinkhole features that formed through dissolution of underlying carbonate-rich shell marl deposits. Oligohaline (0-5 ppt) shrubland of fresh to brackish waters on ﬁ verticillatus dense tangle bordering this creek. Natural Processes Responsible for these conditionspartially decomposed peat lacking pronounced Limiting Factors hummock and hollow This micro-topography. vegetation forms linear stands along waterways between freshwater marshes and adjacent swamp forests. This shrub border occurs as a fringe along PH Creek and other refuge freshwater waterways. Most often

by P. Polygonum Polygonum Eleocharis also occurs but Fontinalis Fontinalis and Cephalanthus orum, Morella cerifera. forms a dense, often Catocala muliercula licinus, Panicum. licinus, Nuphar advena, Nymphoea odorata, These communities are is association D. verticillatus Cephalanthus occidentalis Morella cerifera, Baccharis halimifolia. as dominant shrub w/ the moss ., draped on limbs. Characteristic herbs = hydropiperoides, Dulichium arundinaceum, Bidens frondosa, Scirpus cyperinus, Fimbristylis autumnalis, dichotomiﬂ Carex lurida, Panicum amphibium. securing health of host plant = occidentalis spp Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Species: Focal Potential Community dominated by broad-leaved deciduous shrub, Decodon verticillatus. Substrate is a shallow organic layer overlying silt loam or clay loam. Diagnostic features are w/ Peat-bog mats. w/ Peat-bog monotypic stand. Herbaceous species with less abundance that water willow. vary widely to include cordata, Utricularia spp virginica, Pontedaria Petlandra spp. & Potamogeton Shrub canopy is relatively open to moderately dense and dominated by Herbaceous layer diverse & characterized by spp., Kostelezkya virginica, Hibiscus moscheutos, Typha spp., Kostelezkya virginica, Hibiscus moscheutos, Typha punctatum, Pluchea odorata, angustifolia, Polygonum Spatina patens, Asclepias incarnate, Ptilimnium capillaceum, Cyperus ﬁ virgatum, Schoenplectus americanus, Amaranthus cannabinus. Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Shrub Swamp Willow Water (2A) Buttonbush Coastal Pond Plain (1 A) Wax-Myrtle Shrub Swamps Wax-Myrtle (67 A)

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-17 Refuge Resources of Concern encroachment. ooding from severe storms Heavy salt spray and tidal fl can cause die-back in the shrub layer; Phragmites and ooded Morella by the presence Iva frutescens Maritime/estuarine shrubland of the mid- occurring in Atlantic association with salt marshes. It forms an ecotone between high marsh and adjacent upland vegetation. Seaward, this association grades into high salt marsh dominated by herbaceous vegetation, but landward, shrub cover becomes more dense. This community is differentiated from Shrub the Wax-Myrtle Swamp of cerifera/Baccharis halimifolia/SPartina spp of Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors higher salinity regimes, characteristic of diurnal to irregularly fl mesohaline (5.0 – 18.0 ppt) areas bordering Broadkill River and Slaughter Canal. Distichlis Morella cerifera Iva frutescens & Herbaceous layer dominated by Also associated w/ ooded by storm tides. Substrate is peat over other herbaceous associates include Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) Species for Tidal Creek Shrubland/ Focal Potential Spartina High & Low Salt Marsh: Saltmarsh Sharp- Black Rail (SEN), Prairie Warbler, tailed sparrow, Clapper Rail, Short- ABDU, Willet, Seaside Sparrow, eared Owl, Henslow’s Sparrow (SEN), Sedge Wren, Coastal Plain Swamp Sparrow. This shrubland occurs in patches above mean high tide and can be fl sand, or sandy loam. Dominated by Baccharis halimifolia. candense, spicata, Hibiscus moscheutos, Teucrium radicans, Cuscuta gronovii & Solidago Toxicodendron sempervirens. & Juniperus virginiana. S. patens; Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Irregularly Flooded Eastern Tidal Salt Shrub (96 A)

D-18 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Diking and draining; OMWM excavations; altered hydrology; invasive species; sea level rise; mercury contamination and salt marsh die-back. “Salt-Marsh Die-Back”; Tidal Ranges of less than 1 meter; altered hydrology; Invasive Species; Mercury Contamination. S. Local readily , or can lead c competition. c ora ora Panicum virgatum & Panicum Vegetation occurs as Vegetation a shifting mosaic of patches dominated by a single grass species dictated by hydroperiod, nutrient availability, salinity gradients, soil oxygen and interspecifi alternifl to the formation of salt panes. Highly dynamic habitats; Alternifl Natural Processes Responsible for these conditions Limiting Factors As sedimentation increases marsh elevation, vegetation shifts to upland border communities dominated by Juncus gerardii. disturbance from ice scouring or extensive snow goose herbivory can cause invasion by colonizes soft sediments off the seaward edge of the salt marsh. Grass culms and algal mats trap sediments brought in by development tides. Peat raises marsh elevation & low marsh succeeds to high marsh. forms a brous peat brous Aster tenuifolius, ora Spartina patens & S. alternifl Salt panes are a prominent feature microscopic algae (esp. diatoms) are ora occurs nearest tidal waterways and Distichlis spicata & Juncus gerardii. ooded by polyhaline (18-30 ppt) tides; ooded intertidal zone (from mean high tide to sea tall-form alternifl grades into short-form, landward, where tidal range is restricted. Common associates in low density include Distichlis spicata, Salicornia maritime, Juncus gerardii & J. roemerianus, abundant on marsh surface. Population/Habitat Attributes (Structure & Species Attributes Population/Habitat Composition) grassland dominated by Tall coarse peat over mucky silt to silty fi with high organic matter content. Occurs in regularly fl level; diurnally fl A. subulatus, Atriplex patula, Solidago sempervirens & virgatum. Panicum within this association. This community occupies zones extending from mean high tide landward to the limit of spring tides. target Rocs include American Black Duck, Potential breeding salt marsh passerines species, black rail,and willet, migrating and wintering waterfowl and waterbirds. High Salt Marsh is dominated by Other associates in low density include codominated by Habitats (Plant Communities that Represent Existing BIDEH Low Salt North Atlantic Marsh (1685 A) North Atlantic High Marsh North Atlantic (85 A)

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-19 Refuge Resources of Concern cial cial dune cial cial dune construction, trampling & ATV Mosquito Chemical Use; Sea c; Adulticide Human activities such as dune stabilization, ATV Human activities such as dune stabilization, ATV dogs and walking humans during use; Running nesting and critical migrational seasons; Loss of natural beach dynamics; Shoreline Protection Practices (Beach Replenishment & Artifi spills of toxins Dune Construction); Accidental and sewage; Invasive plants. Artifi traffi Level Rise and Climate Change; Invasive species. Residential & Habitat Loss and Fragmentation; Mosquito Commercial Development; Adulticide Chemical Use. Invasive plant species; Artifi Altered hydrology due to OMWM excavations; species; Mercury Pesticides;Invasive contamination; Salt Marsh Die-Back; Climate Change; Sea Level Rise. stabilization; Residential/Commercial Development; Chemical applications of Dimilin & Mosquito Adulticides. of Ancient Black rails, canopy &

* Morella cerifera Target Rocs: Migratory landbirds in Target Target Rocs: Black rail, sharp-tail and Target “Key Wildlife Habitat of Concern.” Target Habitat of Concern.” Target Wildlife “Key Target Rocs*: American Oystercatcher, Red Knot, Rocs*: American Oystercatcher, Target Appendix D-5. Habitat Priorities at Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime at Priorities Habitat D-5. Appendix Roc: Beach Dune Tiger Beetle. Presence of nesting state-listed species; Importance to spring & fall migrating shorebirds and wading birds, including highest priority BCR 30 & MANEM species; Habitat type ranked S2/S3 & G2/G3; Sanderling, Whimbrel, Beach Dune Tiger Beetle, Horseshoe End) Crabs.* (See Note at Table’s Maritime vegetation community supports uncommon state plants and rare invertebrate species; Ranked Globally as G2 state ranked as Uncommon plants including herbaceous layer; Rare & unique invertebrate fauna absent from other state sites. spring & fall and rare inverts; Only 2 State Reference site in Delaware of this habitat type: 1) PHNWR & 2) Great Marsh in Lewes. Habitat of Conservation Concern Wildlife Key Sand Ridge Forest; Many rare S1 invertebrates dependent on Sand Ridge Forest; vegetation within this community; Globally Ranked (G2). terns & Black skimmers are listed as state Least & Forster’s endangered species. Salt marsh sharp-tailed & seaside sparrows, American black duck, gull-billed & rosette terns are all listed as Tier 1 state birds (DWAP-2005). Listed as a Habitat Of Conservation Concern in DWAP & refuge Listed as a Habitat Of Conservation Concern in DWAP community harbors several bird species of state’s greatest conservation need. American seaside sparrows, coastal plain swamp sparrow, black duck, gull-billed tern, common skimmer, tern, whimbrel and willet. least tern, Forster’s High Marsh

North Atlantic Low Marsh North Atlantic Irregularly Flooded Eastern Tidal Salt Shrub Salt Panne • • • • Habitat TypePRIORITY I HABITATS I. Barrier Island Beach and Salt Marsh Habitats Overwash Dunes Reasons for Ranking Presence of federally-listed species during migrational periods; Dune Grassland Coastal Interdune Swale Atlantic Maritime Red Cedar Woodland Limiting Factors/Threats Coastal Dune Community rare in Delaware (S1) w/ patches Salt Marsh

D-20 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern re to re Major Habitat Loss of Forested Upland Habitats Major Habitat Loss of Forested due (> 75%) in state and Habitat Fragmentation to clear cutting for development, & agricultural Suppression; Invasive plant practices; Fire species; Agricultural runoff & residential areas creating elevated levels of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, & Enterococcus bacteria; Climate change and sea level rise. This community is anthropogenically maintained by the refuge’s Unit III Impoundment Infrastructure (2 large water control structures & mile-long dike) that provides water level management capabilities within 2,500 acres of emergent marsh. Drastic alterations to water levels on Prime Hook Creek could negatively impact rare plants and animals dependent on the Red Maple/Seaside Alder Swamp community; Groundwater withdrawals. Habitat fragmentation and loss; Lack of fi regenerate white cedar stands; Invasive species. Target Target y species y icker, Scarlet icker, refl Key Wildlife Habitat Wildlife Key Delmarva fox squirrel, Underwing Moth (S1); due to rarity of large contiguous Target Rocs: Target attened pipewort (S2). Rare Herps are Praeclara & , Photuris spp.) Delaware Wildlife Action Plan (2005) has designated any Action Delaware Wildlife forested Upland Blocks > 250 acres as of Conservation Concern forested blocks in state; anywhere else in Delaware or North America (DNHP-2007); Rare plants found here include seaside alder (S2/G3), green- fringe orchid (S3), Mitchell’s sedge and gibbous grass (S2); (S1), Cope’s Rare animal species include Carpenter Frog (S1), Ribbon Snake (S2), Rough Green Gray Treefrog (S2), Great Purple Hairstreak (S1), several rare fi ( & Yellow- Acadian Flycatcher, Rocs: Prothonotary Warbler, throated Vireo. White Cedar in the Community is distinguished by Atlantic Several rare canopy & seaside alder (S3) in the understory. plants associated with this habitat type include: coast sedge (S1), bayonet rush (S2), & fl (S1) – only 2 known populations also associated: Carpenter Frog (S1), Ribbon Snake (S2), & extant in De; Cope’s Gray Treefrog Rough green snake (S2). Bald Eagle, Breeding Landbirds, especially Wood Bald Eagle, Breeding Landbirds, especially Wood Great Black and white warbler, thrush, Bay-breasted warbler, Northern fl warbler, Kentucky Crested Flycatcher, Migrating Vireo; Yellow-throated Whip-Poor-Will, Tanager, Landbirds. II. Forested Uplands (Priority NVCS Associations) II. Forested and Emergent Wetlands III. Forested Habitat Type (cont.) PRIORITY I HABITATS Southern Red Oak Forest; Coastal Plain Mid-Atlantic Loblolly Pine Forest; Mesic Coastal Plain Oak Forest; Reasons for Ranking Mesic Mixed Mid-Atlantic Hardwood Forest; Pine Woodland; Pond Northern Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Hardwood Forest. Red Maple/Seaside Alder Swamp Based on current knowledge this community does not exist Limiting Factors/Threats White Cedar/Seaside Atlantic Alder Swamp

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-21 Refuge Resources of Concern lling-in wet areas & agricultural runoff of Invasive plant species; Poor Water Quality; Water Invasive plant species; Poor contamination from Agricultural run- Pesticide or Dimilin chemical off; Mosquito Adulticide applications, and salt water intrusion. Drainage ditches dug for refuge farming, eutrophication from Ag-fertilizer and pesticide & high beaver densities, invasive species. runoff, Delaware Heritage scientists rank this community for protection as these areas are are not legally regulated by Delaware; Ponds vulnerable to destruction via ditching, draining, ﬁ nutrients & pesticides. They are also threatened by groundwater depletion due to large irrigation systems adjacent to refuge lands that alter hydrology supporting these habitats; Mosquito & Dimilin pesticide applications kill Adulticide rare invertebrates. Community is threatened by groundwater alteration, agricultural run-off of fertilizers and pesticides and drainage ditches. Target Target oristically Target Rocs: Target in Delaware breeding & heterophylla,

ag iris (S2), cattail sedge (S3) ed as Tier 1 SGCN in DWAP – Pitcher Plant ed as Tier 1 SGCN in DWAP y species. y Habitat of Conservation Concern n Skimmer, Sphagnum Sprite, Blueberry Dart, & n Skimmer, re fl re migrating landbirds. Plan. Action Wildlife diverse habitat-type on the refuge and in Delaware with over 66 uncommon plant species documented by DNHP (Delaware Natural Heritage Program), including 24 very rare state plant species and rare invertebrate amphibian species. several fi Only a few examples of this community remain in Delaware. State and Regionally rare globally uncommon (S1/G3 Tier 1) Marbled Underwing Moth resides within this community in association with its host plant, swamp cottonwood. Coastal plain ponds are unique non-tidal, isolated freshwater Globally depressional ponds surrounded by forested canopy. rare (G2) refuge depressional ponds provide habitat for several state rare-plants: slender blue-fl region, and (S1), Ten- Rush else in the state; Several populations of Twig Angle Pipewort (S1), Umbrella Flat-sedge Bushy Bluestem Cotton Grass (S1) support the most fl (S1) & Tawny ROCs: Identifi Moth, Elfi Catocala marmorata, Populus & Robbins spike-rush (S3).Rare state animal species supported (S1), Cope Gray Tree by this community include Carpenter Frog (S1), Great Purple Hairstreak (S1) & Marbled Underwing Frog (S1). III. Forested and Emergent Wetlands (cont.) and Emergent Wetlands III. Forested Habitat Type (cont.) PRIORITY I HABITATS Swamp Cottonwood Coastal Plain Pond Reasons for Ranking Coastal Plain Freshwater Depression Ponds Buttonbush Coastal Plain Pond Limiting Factors/Threats Globally Ranked G3 with very few occurrences in mid-Atlantic Mat Community Peat Twig-Rush Unique and rare community in Delaware found nowhere

D-22 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern Phragmites Water quality issues Water Storm surges can cause shrub-die back; Invasive species encroachment; Control of Mosquitoes and Application of Pesticides by Aerial Pests Forest having negative impacts on invertebrates. due to eutrophication both from on-refuge and point sources of agricultural run-off; off-refuge Mercury contamination; Ground water depletion from large commercial irrigation systems adjacent to refuge lands; Mosquito adulticide applications and associated drift effects; ten 25 foot-wide drainage ditches on private property feeding directly into Prime Hook Creek Unit spills of toxin and III impoundment; Accidental sewage; Groundwater withdrawals; Control by Aerial Pests of Mosquitoes and Forest Climate Changes; Seal Application of Pesticides; Level Rise, and salt water intrusion. & Ludwigia leptocarpa; Exotic plant invasions, especially

within Target Rocs: Target (Photuris cant anadramous cant and DWAP & DNHP DWAP : Catocala muliercula Ischnura kellicotti-S1), . y ( y Baccharis halimifolia . The lack of other sites in or ; Target Roc ; Target y. M. cerifera) refl fi Nannothemis bella-S1), Iva frutescens Morella cerifera n Skimmer ( sh resources and state rare invertebrate SGCN. Six key Dominated by associated salt marsh areas; Important shrub component includes (DE – only occurrence –State Record) recommends targeting as SGCN by conserving areas which contain host plant ( contribution to BIDEH of freshwater habitats not well level management represented in state and eco-region. Water capability creates habitat food resources for a large number of priority ROCS especially migrating and wintering ducks, migrant Canada Geese (spring & fall), signifi fi perennial freshwater wetland communities and annual moist- soil vegetation support the best populations of S1 & S2 – Tier 2 invertebrates listed in DWAP Least Tern, Rail,Black Rail, Clapper Rail, Virginia Forster Bittern, American Pied-billed Grebe, Black Duck, Northern Pintail, Canada Geese; breeding and Short- migrating shorebirds especially Dunlin, Yellowlegs, Alewife, Blue-back Herring, Avocets; billed Dowitcher, Stripe-Bass, American Eel, Shad & Hickory Shad; Lilypad forktail damselfl Elfi Delaware plus the concentration of rare invertebrate species impounded wetlands to exemplify the importance of PHNWR’s rare species’ long-term persistence in the state. pensylvanica-S2) III. Forested and Emergent Wetlands (cont.) and Emergent Wetlands III. Forested PRIORITY II HABITATS Maritime Salt Shrub Mid-Atlantic Habitat Type (cont.) PRIORITY I HABITATS Emergent Impounded Wetlands Refuge Habitat-type acreage (4,200 acres) offers greatest Reasons for Ranking Limiting Factors/Threats

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-23 Refuge Resources of Concern ora & Mile-A- Phragmites re; Invasive plants; Landscape position Minute; Mosquito Adulticide Use Minute; Mosquito Adulticide Salt water intrusion & invasive species encroachment. of this community limited to mid-Atlantic (DE, of this community limited to mid-Atlantic NC) faces development pressures & MD, VA, degradation from agricultural practices. Invasive encroachment especially from Multiﬂ Habitat loss & degradation; Invasive species encroachment especially Nitrates, phosphates & pesticides from agricultural run-off; Invasive species encroachment. Lack of ﬁ Rose and Japanese Stiltgrass. Community is naturally restricted to areas directly affected by maritime processes (e.g., salt spray and bay winds); Other threats include succession, lack of disturbance & invasive plants. Historic habitat in Delaware eliminated by extensive residential development, road expansion, & recreation.

Target Target . Target Target Iris prismatica Catocala muliercula

Target ROCS: Target . (S3), & Community Ranked G2G3, Catocala praeclara Several high priority BCR 30 Target Rocs: Target Morella cerifera & associated w/ Peat-Bog communities. & associated w/ Peat-Bog Carex typhina Catocala muliercula; Decodon verticillatus Refuge contains only a small portion of this habitat-type. Rocs: Migratory landbirds & waterfowl. Soils in these associations have been negatively impacted by agricultural practices & are recovering from poor soil fertility; Sweetgum components naturally restore native soil biota & are eventually replaced by oaks, hickories and/or pines; by securing the health of host plant (Wax-myrtle). Supports uncommon plant species but refuge only contains 91 acres; Ranked as G3 community due to limited distribution dominate shrub species Priority BCR 30 & PIF 44 breeding migrating landbirds. invertebrates, but refuge contains only a small portion of this community type (67 acres); & sweetgum w/some red maple; Shrub layer dominated by Morella cerifera & pensylvanica; migrating songbirds; State ROCS: Spring & Fall Target rare plants include (S2); Rare animals include Carpenter Frog, Cope’s Gray Treefrog, Ribbon Snake, Rough Green Snake, Great Purple Hairstreak, Delaware Skipper, restricted in range to coastal areas of 7 NE states; ROCS : Migrating and PIF 44 bird species like Prairie Warbler; songbirds; Water-Willow Shrub SwampWater-Willow Community dominated by broad-leaved deciduous shrub Successional Sweetgum, Loblolly Sweetgum & Red Maple Sweetgum Forests Coastal Loblolly Pine Wetland Coastal Loblolly Pine Wetland Forest Shrub SwampWax-Myrtle Supports uncommon plant species & associated rare Habitat Type (cont.) PRIORITY II HABITATS (cont.) and Emergent Wetlands III. Forested Successional Maritime Forest Community consists of 184 acres stunted forest blackberry Reasons for RankingCoastal Plain Depression Swamp 3 Coastal Plain communities have been inventories on PHNWR. Limiting Factors/Threats

D-24 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ations. Tier 1 ations. Tier le are Tier 1 listed spe- Tier le are ooding from severe opulations and habitats, on encroachment. cant Delaware keystone species, & ASMFC-listed cant Delaware keystone species, & fi Heavy salt spray & tidal fl storms can cause die-back in shrub layers; Phragmites Invasive species encroachment; Lack of habitat Mowing, Hydro-axe) to set manipulations (Fire, back succession. ower Target Rocs: Prairie Target ed threats. ed fi S1- maritime sunfl Target Rocs: Prairie Warbler, Blue winged Rocs: Prairie Warbler, Target elds. Papaipema maritime Papaipema Connected to high & low salt marsh. short-eared owl, sedge wren, coastal plain swamp warbler, sparrow. Semi-natural Northeast Successional Shrub & Fallow agricultural fi Sparrow, Field Eastern Towee, Brown thrasher, warbler, Flycatcher, Northern Bobwhite, Whip-poor-will, Willow Woodcock, borer moth, migrating warblers and other landbirds. ed by the state are those species that in need of immediate conservation action order to sustain or restore their popul fi species w/ MAFMC Fishery Management Plan & TNC Ecoregion target species. Red Knot, Sanderling, Whimbrel & Beach Dune Tiger Beet Tiger Whimbrel & Beach Dune species. Red Knot, Sanderling, TNC Ecoregion target species w/ MAFMC Fishery Management Plan & cies in Delaware Wildlife Action Plan (DWAP-2005). Wildlife cies in Delaware Action Plan) which is based on analyzing threats that impact their p Wildlife (Delaware species are the major focus of DWAP developing conservation actions to eliminate, compensate or minimize identi Habitat Type (cont.) PRIORITY II HABITATS (cont.) and Emergent Wetlands III. Forested Brackish Tidal Creek Shrub Swamp Early Successional Upland Reasons for RankingHabitats • American Oystercatcher is a state endangered species. Horseshoe crabs have been listed as sensitive & signi • 1 species as identi Tier Limiting Factors/Threats

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-25 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi Red Knot, Ruddy Piping Plover, Black-billied Plover, Turnstone, Great-black- Black Skimmer, backed gull, American Black Duck, Willet, tern, Common tern, Forster’s Least tern, Common nighthawk, Eastern towhee, Savannah sparrow, Diamond Back Terrapin, Horseshoe Crab, Migrating waterfowl and and Wintering wading birds, rare state listed invertebrate & native plant species. ats, shorelines and wet open (Objectives) Î elds. Food – primarily marine invertebrates and small elds. Food == Breeding: Nest in coastal habitats with little vegetative mostly sandy beaches, or blowout areas in dunes. cover, They feed on invertebrates found in overwash habitats and/ or wrack piles at the high tide line. Migration/Wintering: Feed on small crabs, aquatic and Feed Migration/Wintering: terrestrial invertebrates in sandy beaches and/or dune overwash areas. Migration: Sandy beach, tidal fl fi crabs.

Î Appendix D-6. Priority Resources Prime NWR Concern Hook for of Overwash Grassland Dunes Coastal Atlantic Interdune Swale Habitat Type = (Goals) BARRIER BEACH ISLAND HABITATS • • Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Umbrella species for all breeding shorebirds dependent on Overwash and Beach Habitats. Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements American Oystercatcher Sanderling Whimbrel

D-26 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi Cicindela ooded eastern tidal salt cant component of host plant State recommends conserving all also considered an indicator species of good (Objectives) Î Morella cerifera). == Life History: Larval burrows are shallow (8-20 cm) in sandy soils where subsurface soil is constantly moist. They over winter as either adult or a larva. are active Adults from April-Oct. with 2 peaks: April to late June and early that ovipost in late June or Females – September. August July have their larvae reaching the third instar stage by They only occur in sandy beach habitats or late September. in overwash areas (very uncommon in De) with high rates Their tight association with of erosion and low plant density. patchily distributed, early successional, sandy areas makes them excellent keystone organisms for barrier beach island Delaware’s natural landscape, habitats. Within hirticollis quality beach communities (beach and panicgrass) dune grassland associations. and roosting habitats during May June Feeding migrational period and July through October migration. and roosting habitats during spring fall Feeding migrational periods. Resident State Record: Host plant is southern bayberry ( communities with a signifi representative of irregularly fl shrub.

Î Irregularly Flooded Eastern Tidal Salt Shrub Maritime Red Cedar Woodland Successional Maritime Forest Habitat Type = • • • (Goals)

ooded (Catocala muliercula) Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Migratory Shorebirds dependent on overwash dune grasslands Migratory Landbirds dependent on Maritime Shrub, Red Cedar and Successional Woodland, Maritime Forest Underwing Little Wife Eastern tidal salt shrub and Red Cedar Woodland communities. Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone and Indicator Keystone species of healthy Sandy Beach and Dune Grassland Habitats. Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Indicator species of healthy Irregularly ﬂ Beach Dune Tiger Beetle (Cicindela hirticollis)

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-27 Refuge Resources of Concern , ting Species ting n, Marbled underwing, Zeta metata & metatoides) ycatcher, Eastern phoebe, ycatcher, Other Benefi elfi Frosted underwing, Noctuid moths Tearful ( American Red Start, Blue-winged Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Eastern wood pewee, Willow fl Louisiana waterthrush, Eastern towhee, Baltimore oriole, Chuck will’s widow, Downy Red-bellied woodpecker, Hairy woodpecker, woodpecker, Red-headed woodpecker, Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed hawk, Barred owl, Silver-haired bat, Eastern Red bat, Hoary bat, Eastern Turkey, Coyote, Deer, skink, box turtle, Five-lined Corn snake, Red salamander and other native reptiles & amphibians. (Objectives) Î == Both upland and bottomland forests are occupied; Upland forest must contain a variety of nut-bearing (hardwoods) and seed-bearing trees (loblolly); Mature forest stands also contain over-age trees bearing hollows for den sites; Winter Resources: Hard mast production – (HSI model Food describes potential for optimum mast production will occur where a mix of white and red oaks, hickories, walnuts other mast producing trees comprise at least 40% of total canopy cover ; with mast producing trees > 15 dbh. As tree canopy closure increases (> 60%), mast quality and quantity is reduced due to suppression and shading of tree crowns by adjacent trees. Optimum canopy closure between 20% to 60% . Canopy closure less than 20% or greater 60 % is indicative understory of less suitable habitat for DFS. Generally, vegetation comprised of shrubs can decrease habitat Optimum conditions occur when shrub crown quality. closure is 30% or less. Habitat quality will decrease as the shrub density increases above 30% regardless of tree canopy closure and overstory size. Breeding: Area sensitive species that nests in mature and second-growth moist deciduous mixed hardwood forests. Highly sensitive to forest fragmentation requiring blocks > 740 acres (299 ha). Breeding: Mature deciduous or mixed (oak/pine) forests, preferably late-successional, mesic forests with a moist soil and moderately dense shrub-subcanopy layer, taller than (50 feet), fairly open with Trees leaf litter. substrate moisture more important than canopy cover. Probability of occurrence increases with forest patch size to a maximum of 500 (ha) (1235 acres) but does occur in fragments as small 25 acres.

Î Southern Red Oak/ Heath Forest Mesic Coastal Plain Oak Forest Coastal Mid-Atlantic Plain Loblolly Pine Forest Northern Coastal Plain Mesic Hardwood Forest Mesic Mid-Atlantic Mixed Hardwood Forest Successional Sweetgum Northern Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Hardwood Forest Pine Woodland Pond Habitat Type = (Goals) FORESTED UPLAND (775 acres) HABITATS • • • • • • • • Canopy/Open Cup Ground/Open Cup mid-story. Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Umbrella Species for large patches of mixed hardwood forest habitats, forest interior dwelling songbirds, and migratory Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements landbirds. Delmarva fox squirrel Wood Thrush Wood t Location/Type: Nes Location = Canopy Feeding Black and White Warbler Nes t Location/Type: ding Location: Canopy at Fee

D-28 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi (Objectives) Î elds, wetlands or open water) with well spaced trees and oodplain forests and rich moist upland forests; Prefers oak == Nests in mature deciduous forest, mixed swamp and fl a dense trees > 9 inch dbh, with relatively closed canopy, understory with a high diversity of shrubs; minimum forest area needed to sustain a viable population from 10-15 ha. In Maryland, 50% occurrence is reached for forest patches of 15 ha but 100 (250 acres) has been suggested as optimal patch size. Nests in rich mesophytic deciduous forest similar to Scarlet breeding habitat requirements. Tanager Breeding Habitats include mesophytic and rich deciduous forest, secondary growth and swamps with a slightly open dense understory and well-developed ground cover. canopy, Mature deciduous and mixed deciduous-coniferous forest near swamps and open water areas but more tolerant of a wide range of open to forest fragmentation. Accepts moderately closed canopy situations. Open woodlands and edges of mature forest or open areas with dead trees. Declining Flicker populations mostly due to loss of suitable nesting sites (dead trees). Deciduous and mixed upland forest adjacent to open areas (fi Uncommon in mature forest, prefers even- a low canopy. aged successional habitats from regeneration to pole-stage stands. Data suggest that average home range (~ 125 acres or 50 ha) and most home ranges contain 50% open habitat.

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) ground/Open Cup Cavity Scrape canopy canopy understory and open areas. Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Vireo Yellow-throated Nest = Canopy/Open Cup ding Location: High in Fee Warbler Kentucky t =Understory or Nes ding Location = Ground Fee Great Crested Flycatcher t = Snag/Cavity Nes ding Location = Ground Fee Northern Flicker t Location = Snag/ Nes ding Location = Sub- Fee Whip-poor-will t Location: Ground/ Nes ding Location: Sparse Fee Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Scarlet Tanager Nest Location/Type: Canopy/Open Cup Location = Canopy Feeding

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-29 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi Squirrel’s critical Delmarva Fox late winter and early spring feeding habitats; Black-crown night herons; and Yellow-crowned Thrush, Northern Parula, Wood American redstart, Worm-eating rare warbler, Kentucky warbler, obligate amphibian species like and Cope’s Gray Carpenter Frog Eastern Ribbon Snake, Treefrog, Rough Green Snake, Eastern duck, other Spadefoot, Wood common reptile and amphibian species. sh species important food items in shable waters. Coastal location of PHNWR (Objectives) Î == Migration: Seasonal frugivores; Many mature forest breeders use early successional habitats during post breeding periods with tall canopies (shrub-sapling canopies) that provide structured resources for protection from aerial predators and microhabitats with plentiful fruit and insect food resources. Radar studies have demonstrated that refuge forested upland areas are critical stopover habitats for fall migrating songbirds on Delmarva Peninsula. Breeding: Upland mature deciduous, coniferous or mixed forest near fi makes anadromous fi and large numbers of waterfowl are spring and summer, most important prey in fall and winter. Congregate in large trees with stout branches, Wintering: protection from storm winds and seclusion from human activity. diverse hardwood Indicator Species of mature, healthy, forest. Habitat generalist in mature wet or moist deciduous forests Breeds in large tracts of mature with dense understory. mesic forest patches with shrubby understory near creek or stream; often associated with swamps surrounded by dry forest tracts.

Î Red Maple/Seaside Alder Swamp Coastal Plain Depression Swamp White Atlantic Cedar/Seaside Alder Saturated Forest Swamp Cottonwood Coastal Plain Pond Habitat Type = (Goals) WETLAND HABITATS (1,238 acres) • • • •

Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Bald Eagle Long-horned beetle (Prionus laticollis) Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Acadian Flycatcher FORESTED Bay-breasted Warbler & Bay-breasted Warbler Migratory Landbirds

D-30 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ddlesr ting Species ting y, other insect species, y, sh species, leaf hoppers, seaside Detritus consumers and small carnivores: copepods, insect larvae, grass shrimp, mysids, amphipods, nematodes, fi crabs, bivalve mollusks; sheepshead and other minnow fi dragonfl Common tern, King rail, Sora, Pied-billed grebe, Black-necked- stilt, Sedge wren, Marsh American bittern, Northern falcon, Marsh Peregrine harrier, rice rat and other small mammals, short-eared and barn owls,; Other Benefi are ora) y larvae in canopy of (Juncus gerardi), S. alternifl ooded during extreme ooding; Requires variety of ). Low salt marsh habitats , black rush . These areas may also contain spike (Iva frutescens oodplain forests and/or moist rich upland oaks (20- (Objectives) (Distichlis spicata) Î less favorable. == Breeding: Requires swampy lowland forest or palustrine especially mature bottomland woods near standing water, hardwood forests subjected to fl natural cavities (2 to 35 feet high) over water. Mature fl 60 feet) tall; will also use deciduous-coniferous forest edge; extensively on moth and butterfl Feeds mature woods. Radar studies showed that refuge forested wetland areas provide critical stopover habitats for songbirds (esp. warblers & sparrows) during spring migration up the Delmarva Peninsula. Breeding: Coastal salt and brackish marsh areas where nests are placed in high salt marsh fl high tides. Nests placed in areas dominated by salt hay (Spartina patens) grass or marsh elder dominated by salt-marsh cordgrass (

Î ooded North Atlantic High North Atlantic Marsh Low North Atlantic Marsh Irregularly ﬂ Eastern tidal Salt Shrub Salt Pannes Habitat Type = (2,200 HABITATS acres) • • • • (Goals) Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Vireo Yellow-throated Migratory Landbirds Black Rail MARSH SALT Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Prothonotary Warbler

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-31 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi , ats Uca ooding with food sh. marsh and tend to ddler crabs ( , fi ddler crabs is the most Palaemonetes Spp.) Palaemonetes Spartina but fi sh. ), shrimp ( ats, and/or native grassland habitats. Fundulus Spp.) Fundulus along ditches and ditched ponds provide the Nereis Spp. sh ( sh ddler crabs and other aquatic organisms. Littorina & Melampus Spp.) sh. (Objectives) and fi Î at low tide; migrating and wintering diets include worms, grubs, fi Breeding: In salt marshes, shallow brackish wet meadows, mudfl == Breeding: Preferred habitat is Spp.) form important food associated with smooth cordgrass. Tall S. alternifora best breeding habitats. Breeding: Require open sand, soil, or dried mud in river or tidal creek. Nests are proximity of an estuary, located in areas of sparse vegetation and will not nest in areas with > 20% vegetation cover or of tall vegetation. Nesting sites characterized as unstable areas created and maintained by tidal action or fl requirements related to abundance and accessibility of small fi Breeding: In sandy beaches and saltwater coastal areas; forages over salt marshes and other open coastal areas mostly for insects & small fi Breeding: Coastal beach, sandbars, and/or salt marsh; feeds on aquatic invertebrates and small fi Migration: Use wetlands, salt marsh habitats and mudfl concentrate along tidal creeks; Nests are usually in dense cover near water and built well above high tide mark; Diet mostly parasitic worms (Ascaridae), > 90% animal matter, clam worms ( snails (

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) Willet Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Least Tern Gull-billed tern Black skimmers Whimbrel Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Clapper Rail

D-32 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Beneﬁ

ora is a good cant S. alternifl ) with an understory of Juncus gerardi Spartina. cynosuroides. thatch to protect nests from Schoenoplectus americanus High Marsh areas within a ooding & 2) nearby openings in are predictors of greatest nest success Other plant species are often used Iva frutescens Spartina Spartina patens patches are marginal. S. patens). (Objectives) Iva c zone of salinity (< 15 ppt) consisting patches S. cynosuroides Î == Breeds exclusively in high salt marsh; Signifi microhabitat characteristics of breeding populations include: 1) suitable elevated nest sites where there is a deep layer of periodic tidal and storm fl vegetation, pools, pannes or ditch edges and open mud for foraging; Optimum habitat contains nesting and feeding microhabitats in close proximity. indicator of the very best saltmarsh sharp-tailed habitat. Salt marsh specialists and indicator species of salt habitat tolerance than sharp-tail ecosystem health; Wider sparrow; also found nesting in low salt marsh areas not used by sharp-tails. Presence of tall-form good indicator of seaside sparrow habitat. wetland specialist breeding from May to Mid-Atlantic Favors September. specifi of High Tide Bush ( salt hay ( as singing perches by males like Tidal guts and brackish ponds also present within optimal of breeding habitats. Patches and while

Î Habitat Type = (Goals)

Spartina Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Seaside Sparrow Coastal Plain Swamp Sparrow Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements and indicator Keystone species of healthy and Indicator Keystone species of North Atlantic High Marsh, Maritime Shrub and Irregularly Flooded Eastern Tidal Salt Shrub. Sharp-tailed Sparrow High and Low Salt Marsh.

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-33 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi Black- Herons & Egrets, Osprey, crowned night-heron, Gull-billed tern, Common tern, Mallard, Green-winged teal, Blue-winged teal, Ring-necked duck, Northern American widgeon, shoveler, duck, Canada Gadwall, Wood Swan, geese, snow Tundra Spine Four Banded Sun Fish, Stickle Back, Black-Banded Sun White and Comely Shiner, Fish, perch. Yellow ats) about (= 2 are best. Optimal Potamogeton and/or at feeding habitats ranging from 20-60% Ruppia ) preferred. 2 . 2 (Objectives) Î ng, resting, feeding and escape habitats. These include == variables limit ABDU use on estuarine Four Wintering: open water (subtidal & intertidal) habitats critical for loafi 2 physical variables (water depth & presence of tidal fl & 2 biological factors (aquatic plant clam densities. Optimal subtidal open water is (< 1m deep) with 30% to 70% availability of shallow tidal waters interspersed with exposed mud fl This habitat structure provides critical animal foods cover. in winter diet (mussels, snails, clams, crabs, amphipods & decapods), especially when impounded habitats are covered by snow or ice. Quality of water feeding habitats that support rooted vascular aquatic plant beds (>20%) occupied by invert densities in wintering salt marsh habitats = >300 clams/m Impounded marshes with associated ponds and creeks also provide food and protection from storms, escape and Optimal hemi-marsh conditions with >25% resting cover. emergent vegetation supporting > 750 snails/m 70 snails/ft

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) FRESH/BRACKISH WETLANDS (4,200 acres) Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements American Black Duck American Black Duck IMPOUNDED

D-34 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi sh. eld areas by reducing the acreage in t E/T species. (Objectives) Î == Prefer large, open shallow marshes with Wintering: extensive emergent and submerged vegetation between on predominantly native plant 5 – 30 cm deep; Feeds seeds and vegetative material; Important moist-soil include barnyard grass, sedges, smartweeds; important invertebrate foods in winter include snails, chironomids, & beetle (Coleoptera larvae); In brackish habitats wigeongrass, alkali bulrush, sea purslane and spike rush also provide good food and cover.. Greatest densities in lacustrine, littoral, emergent, nonpersistent wetlands, characterized by beds of aquatic vegetation, emergent interspersed with open plant (75%) foods, with consumption mostly, Food water. some animal (25%) foods. Habitat Use & Staging Areas: Concentrate on larger wetland patches > 100 acres, with greater consumption of animal (65%) foods to plant (35%) foods. Strategies to decrease: Modify Refuge upland habitat management of open fi agricultural habitats in favor of more natural habitats, to reduce Snow Goose use, increase migratory landbird use and benefi Breeding: Prefers fresh or brackish marshes with shallow water and abundant emergent vegetation; Constructs nest covered with in cattails or sedges just above shallow water, nest to surrounding a loose canopy of vegetation. Attaches vegetation or on a clump of grass tussock. Diet includes snails, worms and occasional small fi

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Migrating & Fall Dabbling Ducks Wintering Spring Migrating Dabbling Ducks Snow Geese Rail Virginia Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Northern Pintail

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-35 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi ooded oating dead oating . 2 ats or sand sh, tadpoles, aquatic insects at habitats with water depths grasses are often important components of attened cattails, muskrat houses near edges sh, amphibians and aquatic invertebrates. (Objectives) Spartina Î ats, open beaches, tidal ditches and creeks fl In comparison to the sympatric Least Bittern, American Bittern uses a wider variety of wetland cover types. Breeding: Shallow freshwater wetlands with abundant emergent vegetation interspersed with patches of open water and aquatic-bed vegetation; Readily use wetlands created by impoundments associated with water depths < 10 cm with sparse to dense vegetative cover in patches incomplete drawdown of impoundments > 25 ha. Slow, can promote favorable emergent vegetative areas with appropriate water levels, while maintaining populations of small fi coastal habitats with mudfl Migration: Favors fl grassland; Impounded mudfl (0-4 cm) and invertebrate densities > 4 gm/m Breeding: Extensive marshy areas (salt to freshwater) with vegetated nest sites partly open to water; Usually nests in small colonies (1-10 birds) on mats of fl vegetation, fl of open water and/or shallow depression in sand or mud; Sometimes uses abandoned nests of Pied-billed Grebes; Also nesting habitat as they are a major component of wrack and provide escape cover for chicks. Breeding and wintering least bitterns inhabit freshwater to brackish wetlands, with dense emergent vegetation such as of > 5 ha with rank and tall (> cattail and bulrush; Patches 1m) emergent vegetation over relatively deep water (30-70 cm) interspersed with patches of open water are required for breeding; Nests usually placed over water or near open water; Diet consists of fi and aquatic insects. Least Bitterns prefer more densely vegetated, deeper water habitats than American bitterns. ==

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) Dunlin Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Least Bittern American Bittern Forster’s Tern Forster’s Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements D-36 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi elds, ats or ats at habitats with water depth ows and water depths from 15 cm to ats, marshes and pools, rain pools in fi (Objectives) ats, tidal fl Î . 2 == Migration: Shallow pools in salt marshes, sandy beaches or impounded wetland mudfl range from 2 to 8 cm and aquatic insect densities > 4 gm/ m Spring/Fall Migration: Wetlands bordered by open fl Migration: Wetlands Spring/Fall areas with scattered tufts of native grasses interspersed with open water. Migration: Shallow fresh, brackish and salt waters, mudfl and damp grassy meadows. Schools of river herring enter estuarine & freshwater Juvenile habitats once a year to spawn from March July. dispersal back to ocean from Oct – Nov or following spring. Habitat Cover Needs: Large creeks, streams and ponds including barrier beach ponds. Spawning substrates include sand, soft substrates, detritus and submerged vegetation with sluggish water fl for Larva & Juvenile: Larvae feed on copepods; 3 m. Food year consume Chironmidae until July, Young-of-the to October. switching to cladocerans in August Highly migratory with spawning and larval development and migration occurring in open ocean; Feeding/growth (elvers) occurring in estuarine and freshwater habitats, with migration of adults out to ocean again (Catadromous Life Cycle). Glass eels migrate into estuaries and freshwater habitats and metamorphose to elvers. Preferred freshwater habitats include lentic and lotic where elvers feed mostly on invertebrates.

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) Alewife ; Important Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Short-billed Dowitcher American Avocet Greater/Lesser Yellowlegs River Herring ecological roles in freshwater and estuarine food webs occupying level between zooplankton (their principal food) and piscivores. & Blue-Back Herring: American Eel

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-37 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting n, American burying y species, other early Other Benefi See HMP for extensive list of rare plant communities and associated rare fauna dependent on these communities. elfi Frosted beetle, migrating and resident butterfl upland successional-dependent invertebrate species, Eastern box turtle, Milk snake, Short-eared Common owl, Northern Harrier, nighthawk, Black-billed and yellow billed cuckoos, Chestnut- Warbler, Yellow sided Warbler, Chimney swift, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Yellow- Sparrow, breasted Chat, Vesper Grasshopper Savannah Sparrow, Black- Henslow sparrow, Sparrow, Migratory Canada bellied Plover, geese, American woodcock, Least rare plant species. shrew, Survival of C) and salinity o elds with scattered trees, corridors C with tolerances 12 -23 o (Objectives) sh up to 20 mm in length. Juveniles feed on mysids Î == Ocean to migrate in early spring from Atlantic Adults freshwater habitats and juveniles migrate back to ocean in 2 – 5 years. Nursery Requirements & Larvae Habitat: Optimal larvae depends on temperature, salinity & D. O. temps (18 – 21 Shrubland with Optimal breeding habitats = Young herbaceous vegetation < 20 cm (8 in) tall with patches of Other associated habitats include poor soils, sparse cover. brushy dune areas, coastal pine subclimax, burned-over and cut-over areas, fallow fi in hardwood swamps and grassland-forest ecotone. ranges 2 to 10 ppt. Low dissolved oxygen causes larvae Larvae food includes mysid shrimp, amphipods mortality. and fi and insects. Maintenance of Impoundment Infrastructure (Dikes, water control structures and dunes) to control salt water intrusion and set back succession in impounded wetlands.

Î Old Shrubland • Young Shrubland Young Transitional Transitional Shrubland • Grasslands Shrublands Transitional forested areas in saplings • Habitat Type = (Goals) Early Successional Upland Habitats • • • Impounded Freshwater Impounded Freshwater Wetlands Open Cup Subcanopy Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Striped Bass Rare Plant Communities Prairie Warbler t Location = Subcanopy/ Nes ding Fee Location:

D-38 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi elds elds and elds eld edges or deciduous and/or elds, early successional elds with saplings greater than 3 m tall. elds, shrubby swales to open woodland edges; (Objectives) Î == Migrating: Dense growth near borders of swamps or creeks, woodland edges, brushy overgrown fi thickets. Optimal breeding habitat = Old Shrubland. Prefers old fi Shrubland. Other Optimal breeding habitat = Young associated habitats b include brushy edges of woodlands, dry thickets, overgrown fi woodlands, forest ecotones, shrubby undergrowth in open woods. Breeding structural habitat requirements include Old Shrubland and open woodland, early successional forest, brushy fi mixed forests with little to no brushy understory. open Shrubland: Fairly Optimal breeding habitats = Young areas with scattered shrubs. Breeding habitats range from brushy fi Prefers edge habitats that include thickets or areas with small trees and shrubs surrounded by grasslands. Shrubland: Habitat Optimal breeding habitat = Young includes dense brushy areas, edges of woods, hedgerows and road thickets. Shrubland: Optimal breeding habitat = Transitional Habitat includes areas with short structured grasses with shrubs or low trees, brushy hedgerows, abandoned fi where briars and brush starting to regenerate.

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) Cup nest open cup sapling/Open Cup canopy areas and subcanopy Thickets Thickets Tangle/Open Cup Tangle/Open Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Brown Thrasher t Location = Ground/ Nes ding Location: Sub- Fee Whip-poor-will t Location: Gound/No Nes ding Location: open Fee Flycatcher Willow t Location: Subcanopy/ Nes ding Location = Canopy Fee Eastern Towhee t Location: Shrub/Cup Nes ding Location: Shrub/ Fee Sparrow Field t Location = Shrub or Nes ding Location = Shrub/ Fee Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Blue-winged Warbler st Location = Vine Ne Fee ding Location: subcanopy Fee

Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-39 Refuge Resources of Concern ting Species ting Other Benefi that thrives in elds. Regular habitat disturbance Helianthus giganteus-S3) ower ( ower (Objectives) Î ng, travel and escape cover. ned edges provide ideal nesting, brood-rearing, feeding, == of Optimal breeding habitat = Grassland: Variety early successional habitats including native grasslands, hedgerows, woodlands with grass and forbs ground cover, active and fallow crop fi critical in maintaining bobwhite habitat. Grassland Shrublands with community types adjacent to Transitional defi loafi sizes > 30 ha (75 acres) Optimal breeding habitat: Patch in moderately tall grassy vegetation (> 30 cm), with well-developed litter layer and minimal woody species encroachment (< 20 %). Rarest animal species found in state surveys of Refuge habitats (2004-2005). Species is totally dependent on the giant sunfl herbaceous early successional habitats.

Î Habitat Type = (Goals) ower grasslands and shallow depression lined with grass on ground in early successional habitats Focal Species or Focal Species or Focal Focal Group Henslow’s Sparrow maritima Papaipema (S1-Maritime Sunﬂ Borer Moth); This species is thought to represent a subspecies near the brink of extirpation and was last recorded in Delaware 1934. Keystone Resources of ConcernKeystone Life History and Habitat Structure Requirements Umbrella species for entire suite of early successional, grassland-dependent species, both breeding and migrating. Indicator species of healthy early sucsessional grassland habitats. Northern Bobwhite t Location = Tall Nes ding Location = Ground Fee

D-40 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

2 BIDEH

XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX XX X

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 (Priority II) (Priority I) (Priority I ) (Priority I) Milton, Delaware of the Coastal Delaware National Wildlife Refuge Complex Refuge Wildlife Complex Coastal the of National Milton, Delaware Delaware (Priority II) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority II) (Priority I) Appendix D–Table A. Species List and Priority Refuge Habitats for Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge in in Refuge Wildlife National Hook Prime for Habitats Refuge Priority and List Species A. D–Table Appendix (Priority I Habitat) Refuge Habitats Species List and Priority I. BARRIER ISLAND BEACH HABITATS Overwash Dunes Dune Grassland Beachgrass/Panicgrass Coast Interdune Swale Atlantic Maritime Red Cedar Woodland Maritime Salt Shrub Mid-Atlantic Successional Maritime Forest II(A). FORESTED UPLAND HABITATS Southern Red Oak/Heath Forest Mesic Coastal Plain Oak Forest Coastal Loblolly Pine Forest Mesic Coastal Plain Rich Forest Mesic Coastal Plain Mixed Hardwood Forest Pine Sweetbay Prickly Bog Sedge Pond Successional Sweetgum; Red Maple Sweetgum Forest Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-41

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

2 BIDEH

XX XX XX XX X XX XX XX XX XX XX X X XX XX XX

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority II) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority II) (Priority II) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority I) (Priority II) (Priority II) Refuge Habitats Species List and Priority II(B). WETLAND FORESTS Red Maple/Seaside Alder Swamp White Cedar/Seaside Alder Saturated Forest Atlantic Swamp Cottonwood Coastal Plain Seasonal Pond II(B). WETLAND FORESTS (cont.) Coastal Plain Depression Swamp Forest Coastal Loblolly Pine Wetland III. WETLANDS Depressional Ponds Coastal Plain Freshwater Mat Community Peat Twig-Rush Button-Bush Coastal Plain Pond Emergent Impounded Wetlands Shrub Swamp Wax-myrthle High Salt Marsh North Atlantic Shrub Swamp Willow Water Brackish Tidal Creek Shrubland Spartina Low Salt Marsh North Atlantic SUCCESSIONAL UPLAND HABITATS EARLY IV. Native Grassland and Herbaceous Trees Habitats : Grassland/.Shrubland/Young Native Transitional D-42 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 SX SX 2 M WX WX M M H Yr X EYr XYr 1Yr XYr X H X 2b E H M 2b HH H 1 2 2 - H M H L L HH FW X 2 L SpF XSpF X H 2 1 H HI HH HH SpSF XSpSF X MSpSF X 2 ESpSF HH E X 1aSpSF M X 1a 1SpSF X 1SpSF X X X - HH E - 2 M HH H HH 2 1 X L M L L M HH L Nycticorax nycticorax nus lheriminieri nus phalacrocorax auritus Pelecanus erythrorhynchos Pelecanus Pufﬁ Gallinula chloropus Calonectris diomedea Larus ridibundus Botaurus lentiginosus Rhynchos niger Fulica americana Fulica Pelecanus occidentalis Pelecanus Sterna forsteri Sterna hirundo Sterna caspia Refuge Habitats Bubulus ibis Rallus longirostris Sterna paradisaea Plegadis falcinellus Laterullus jamaicensis Species List and Priority WATERBIRDS American bittern American coot American white pelican Arctic tern shearwaterAudubon’s Black rail Black skimmer Black-crowned night heron Black-headed gull Brown pelican Cattle egret Caspian tern Clapper rail Common Moorhen Common tern Cory’s shearwater Double-crested cormorant tern Forster’s Glossy ibis Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-43

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 WX H 2 HHH WX YrYr X XYr XYr X 2 2 2Yr X L EYr H X M 1 L H M 2 HH H HH SF X E HH 1 H HH SpS XSpS X HHSpS X 2 M 2 H H HH - HH N M SpF X M 1b 2 - HH SpW X 2 H SpSF X SpSF X SpSF XSpSF XSpSF E X H 1a MSpSF X 1 X HH 2 2 M H HH H HH - HH M H

nus gravis nus Larus marinus Pufﬁ Gavia stellata Podilymbus podiceps Podilymbus Morus bassanus Ardea herodias Egretta caerulea Phalacrocorax carbo Sterna nilotica Larus atricilla Ixobrychus exilis Butorides virescens Sterna dougallii Larus argentatus Egretta thula Refuge Habitats Ardea alba Sterna maxima Sterna antillarum Rhodostethia rosea Rallus elegans Species List and Priority WATERBIRDS (cont.) WATERBIRDS Great black-backed gull Great blue heron Great cormorant Great egret Greater shearwater Green Heron Gull-billed tern Herring gull King rail Laughing gull Least bittern Least tern Little blue heron Northern gannet Pied-billed grebe Red-throated loon Roseate tern Ross’ gull Royal tern Snowy egret D-44 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

I S

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 WXWX H H 2 S Yr XYr X 2a HH 1a 1Yr D FW XFW XFW X FW X MFW HH XFW X H 2 HH 2 H 1 S S D I U SpS X E M 1 M H SpF X 2 H SpSF XSpSF X M M 2 2SpSF X - H H HH SpFW X HSpFW X 2 M I S Branta canadensis Dendrocygna autumnalis Nyctanassa violacea Branta canadensis Ana rubripes Bucephala clangula Ana americana Anas dicors Egretta tricolor Somateria mollissima Branta bernicula Refuge Habitats Melanitta nigra Aythya valisineria Aythya Bucephala albeola Coturnicops noveboracensis Rallus limicola Porzana carolina Porzana ehead Species List and Priority WATERBIRDS (cont.) WATERBIRDS Sora heron Tricolored rail Virginia rail Yellow night heron Yellow-crowned WATERFOWL American black duck American wigeon brant Atlantic Black-bellied whistling duck Black scoter Blue-winged teal Bufﬂ Population Canada goose – Atlantic Canada goose – N. Atlantic Resident Canada Geese Canvasback Common eider Common goldeneye Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-45

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 WXWX M S Yr XYr XYr X MYr M X M 2Yr H X 2Yr I X M I I M S I I FW XFW X H H 2 2 D D SpFW XSpFW X HSpFW XSpFW X 2SpFW XSpFW X HSpFW X HSpFW X M 2 2 MSpFW X 2 S 2 2 H D 2 D D I I Sp FW X Mergus serrator nis Cygnus columbianus Aix sponsa Melanitta fusca Lophodytes cucullatus Anas clypeata Anas crecca carolinensis Clangula hyemalis Anas acuta Histronicus histrionicus Aythya marila Aythya Aythya afﬁ Aythya Aythya collaris Aythya Refuge Habitats Oxyura jamaicensis Melanitta perspicillata Somateria spectabilis Chen caerulescens Aytha americana Aytha Ana strepera Ana platyrhynochos Species List and Priority WATERFOWL (cont.) WATERFOWL Gadwall Greater scaup Green-winged teal Harlequin duck Hooded merganser King eider Lesser scaup Long-tailed duck Mallard Northern pintail Northern shoveler Red-breasted merganser Redhead Ring-necked duck Ruddy Snow Geese Surf scoter swan – Eastern Tundra White-winged scoter duck – Eastern Wood D-46 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 FX H 2 X 4 Yr XYr HHYr X 1a XYr 1 XYrYr X MYr X H X 5 H 2 M M 2 M 3 3 4 2 3 2 SF X 2 SpS X E HH 1a 1 X 5 SpSF XSpSF XSpSF X MSpSF X H 2 HSpSF X 2 3 4 2 SpSF X H 3 2 X 4 2 collis avipes Tryngites subruﬁ Haematopus palliates Pluvialis dominica Limnodromus scolopaceus Pluvalis squatarola Scolopax minor Tringa melanoleuca Limosa haemastica Himantopus mexicanus Tringa ﬂ Calidris bairdii Recurvirostra americana Calidris minutilla Numenius borealis Gallinago delicate Refuge Habitats Charadrius vociferous Calidris alpina Species List and Priority SHOREBIRDS American avocet American golden plover American oystercatcher American woodcock Baird’s sandpiper Black-bellied plover Black-necked stilt sandpiper Buff-breasted Common snipe Dunlin Eskimo curlew Greater yellowlegs Hudsonian godwit Killdeer Least sandpiper Lesser yellowlegs Long-billed dowitcher Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-47

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 WX H Yr XYr XYr HH X HH H 2 4 3 SF X T E HH 1a 1 5 SpS X HH 1 X 5 SpS X HH 1 X 5 SpF XSpF X HSpF X 2 X M 4 1 3 4 SpSF XSpSF XSpSF XSpSF X MSpSF XSpSF X 2SpSF X M 2 SpSF X HSpSF X HSpSF X M 2 3 E M 2 1b 1 M 1 2 H 4 X 3 2 3 4 3 2 3 Calidris fuscicollis Calidris pusilla Phalaropus lobatus Limnodromus griseus Charadrius semipalmatus Calidris mauri Calidris melanotos Tringa solitaria Actitis macularius Bartramia longicauda Calidris maritima Arenaria interpres Limosa fedoa Calidris himantopus Phalaropus fulicarius Charadrius melodus Refuge Habitats Calidris alba Numenius phaeopus Calidris melodus Philomachus pugnax Species List and Priority SHOREBIRDS (cont.) Marbled godwit sandpiper Pectoral Piping plover Purple Sandpiper Red knot Red phalarope Red-necked phalarope turnstone Ruddy Ruff Sanderling Semipalmated plover Semipalmated sandpiper Short-billed dowitcher Solitary sandpiper Spotted sandpiper Stilt sandpiper Upland sandpiper sandpiper Western Whimbrel White-rumped sandpiper D-48 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR 4

M M

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr X Yr X Yr XYrYr X E X M 3Yr 1 X 2 2 1 SpS X H 1b 2 X 4 SpF XSpF XSpF X SpF X H H 1 SpSF XSpSF XSpSF X HSpSF X H 2b 2 2SpSF XSpSF X 4 3 1 H 2 2 X

Dendroica virens Dendroica caerules Poecile atricapillus Poecile Dendroica castanea Phalaropus tricolor Setophaga ruticilla Empidonax virescens Falco sparverius Falco Catharus bicknelli Icterus galbula Turdus migratorius Charadrius wilsonia Hirundo rustica Refuge Habitats Strix varia Haliaeetus leucocephalus Tyto alba Tyto ycatcher Tringa semipalmata Species List and Priority SHOREBIRDS (cont.) Willet phalarope Wilson’s plover Wilson’s LANDBIRDS ﬂ Acadian American kestrel American redstart American robin Bachman’s sparrow Bald eagle Baltimore oriole Bank swallow Barn owl Barred owl Bay-breasted warbler Bicknell’s thrush Blackburnian warbler Black-capped chickadee Black-throated blue warbler Black-throated green warbler Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-49

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr XYr 2 Yr X XYr X H M 2aYr 1b 2 X 2 Yr X M SpF X SpF XSpF X 1b 1 2 X SpSF XSpSF XSpSF X H 2 SpSF 2 XSpSF XSpSF XSpSF XSpSF X M E 1bSpSF M X 2 H X 1 2a X 2 2 1 SpFW X E 1

Melospiza Georgiana nigrescens Mniotilta varia Sitta pusilla Dnedroica pensylvanica Polioptila caerulea Polioptila Geothlypis trichas Vermivora pinus Vermivora Chordeiles minor Coccyzus erythropthalmus Caprimulgus carolinensis Vireo solitarius Vireo Dendroica cerulea Wilsonia canadensis Wilsonia Toxostoma rufum Toxostoma Bombycilla cedrorum Certhia americana Chaetura pelagica Coragyps atratus Refuge Habitats Dolichonyx oryzivorus Species List and Priority LANDBIRDS (cont.) Black vulture Black-and-white warbler Black-billed cuckoo Blue-gray gnatcatcher Blue-headed vireo Blue-winged warbler Bobolink Broad-winged Hawk Brown creeper Brown thrasher Brown-headed nuthatch Canada warbler Cedar waxwing Cerulean warbler Chestnut-sided warbler Chimney swift Chuck-will’s-widow Coastal plain swamp sparrow Common nighthawk Common yellowthroat D-50 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR 4

State T&E State

EM 1

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 SX X EH1b1 Yr XYrYr X E XYrYr X X 1 Yr X 2a H 2 2a 2 M 2a SpS X H SpF X M 2 X SpSF XSpSF XSpSF 2 XSpSF X SpSF X MSpSF X 2c HSpSF 2 XSpSF E X 2 H 1 1a 2 X 2 SpSF X 2a Myiarchus crinitus Regulus satrapa Vermivora chrysoptera Vermivora Ammodramus savannarum Contopus virens Ammodramus henslowii Lanius ludovicianus Oporornis formosus Tyrannus tyrannus Tyrannus Sialia sialis Wilsonia citrina Wilsonia Empidonax minimus Sayornis phoebe Pipilo erythrophthalmus Accipter cooperii Catharus Spizella pusilla Eremophila alpestris ycatcher Dumetella carolinensis Refuge Habitats ycatcher Species List and Priority LANDBIRDS (cont.) Cooper’s hawk Eastern bluebird Eastern kingbird Eastern phoebe Eastern towhee Eastern wood-pewee sparrow Field Golden crowned kinglet Golden-winged warbler Grasshopper sparrow Gray catbird Great crested ﬂ Henslow’s sparrow Hermit thrush Hooded warbler Horned Lark Ipswitch Savannah Sparrow warbler Kentucky Least ﬂ Loggerhead shrike Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-51

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 FX WXWX 1 WX M Yr XYrYr XYr X X H 2a 2 H E H 2a X 2 Yr 2 X 1 SpS X H 2c 2 SpF X SpF X SpSF XSpSF XSpSF X 1 H 1a 1a 1 2 X SpFW X SpFW XSpFW X ESpFW X 1 2 X Ammodramus nelsoni Vermivora celata Vermivora Sitta canadensis Seiurus noveboracensis Protonotaria citrea Seiurus motacilla Colinus virginianus Circus cyaneus Parula americana Parula Lanius excubitor Colaptes auratus Asio otus Dendroica discolor Dendroica palmarum Dendroica pinus Refuge Habitats Cistothotus palustris icker Pandion haliaetus Pandion Falco columbarius Falco Species List and Priority LANDBIRDS (cont.) Long-eared owl Louisiana waterthrush Marsh wren Merlin Nelson’s sharp-tailed sparrow Northern bobwhite Northern ﬂ Northern harrier Northern shrike Northern waterthrush Northern parula Orange-crowned warbler Osprey falcon Peregrine warbler Palm Pine warbler Prairie warbler Prothonotary warbler Red-breasted nuthatch D-52 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYr XYr X X EYr MYr X 1b X 1 1a X E 2 1 M M 1a 2c X 1 1Yr X X X SF X E M 1b 1 SpS XSpS X 2 2 SpF X 2 SpSF XSpSF X 1b SpSF X H 2a 2 SpSF XSpSF X SpSF XSpSF X H 2a 2 H 1b X 2 1a 1 X SpFW XSpFW XSpFW X E 2 M 1b 1 1 X Ammodramus caudacutus Sitta carolinensis Melanerpes erythrocephalus ammeus Buteo lineatus Accipter striatus Catharus ustulatus Passerculus sandwichenis Passerculus Empidonax traillii Vireo griseus Vireo Piranga rubra Ammodramus maritimus Asio ﬂ Pooecetes gramineus Pooecetes Piranga olivacea Vireo olivaceus Vireo Caprimulgus vociferus Vireo gilvus Vireo Hylocichla mustelina Refuge Habitats Cistothorus platensis ycatcher Catharus fuscescens Species List and Priority LANDBIRDS (cont.) Red-eyed vireo Red-headed woodpecker Red-shouldered hawk Saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrow Savannah sparrow Scarlet tanager Seaside Sparrow Sedge wren Sharp-shinned hawk Short-eared owl Summer tanager Swainson’s warbler Veery sparrow Vesper vireo Warbling Whip-poor-will White-breasted nuthatch White-eyed vireo ﬂ Willow thrush Wood Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-53

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr XYr Yr Yr Yr 2 YrYr XYr Yr EYr EYr 1 2 2 SpS X H 1a 2 X SpSf X 2 SpSF X SpSF XSpSF X H 2a 2 SpFW X (S3) avus (S3) oridanus avifrons Denroica dominica Dendroica coronata Helmitheros vermivorum Sciurus carolinensis Vireo fl Vireo Icteria virens Sciurus niger cinereus Coccyzus americanus Pipistrellus subfl Sylvilagus fl Castor canadensis Lasiurus borealis Mustela vison Dendroica petechia Eptesicus fuscus Scalopus aquaticus Refuge Habitats Canis latrans Species List and Priority LANDBIRDS (cont.) warbler Worm-eating cuckoo Yellow-billed chat Yellow-breasted warbler Yellow-rumped vireo Yellow-throated warbler Yellow-throated warbler Yellow MAMMALS American beaver American mink Big brown bat Coyote Delmarva fox squirrel Eastern cottontail Eastern gray squirrel Eastern mole Eastern pipistrelle Eastern red bat D-54 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 1 2

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr YrYr YrYr Yr YrYr Yr Yr 2 YrYr 2 Yr Yr YrYr 2 2 2 (S3)

Cryptotis parva Zapus hudsonius Glaucomys volans Lutra canadensis Mustela frenata Blarina brevicauda Procyon lotor Lasionycteris noctivagans Sorex fontinalis Myotis lucifugus Sorex cinereus Oryzomys palustris Microtus pennsylvanicus Refuge Habitats Nycticeius humeralis Lasiurus cinereus ying squirrel Urocyon cinereoargenteus Ondatra zibethicus Vulpes vulpes Vulpes Species List and Priority Masked shrew MAMMALS (cont.) Eastern small-footed bat Evening bat Gray fox Hoary bat Little brown bat Long-tailed weasel Marsh rice rat Maryland shrew Meadow jumping mouse Meadow vole Muskrat North American least shrew Northern raccoon Northern river otter Red fox Short-tailed shrew Silver-haired bat Southern ﬂ Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-55

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr YrYrYrYr Yr EYr S1Yr S1 1 1 2 2 2

(S4) (S4)

Plethodon cinereus Ambystoma tigrinum Pseudotriton montanus Pseudotriton Scaphiopus holbrookii Hyla versicolor Permomyscus lencopus Permomyscus Acris creoitans crepitans Rana catesbeiana Hyla gratiosa Odocoileus virginianus Didelphis marsupialis Condylura cristata Microtus pinetorum Rana virgatipes Mephitis mephitis Refuge Habitats Marmota monax Species List and Priority MAMMALS (cont.) Star-nosed mole Striped skunk opossum Virginia White-footed mouse White-tailed deer Woodchuck vole Woodland AMPHIBIANS American bullfrog Barking tree frog Carpenter fog Cope’s gray treefrog Eastern cricket frog Eastern mud salamander Eastern spadefoot toad Eastern red-backed salamander Eastern Tiger salamander D-56 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 1

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

TETE 1 TE 1 1 E2 EE 1

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr Yr 2 Yr YrYr Yr 2 Dermochelys coriacea Caretta caretta Pseudotrton rubberPseudotrton ruber Eretmochelys imbricata Pseudacris cruciferPseudacris crucifer Pseudacris feriarumPseudacris kalmi Rana sphenocephala Hemidactylium scutatum Amsystoma opacum Rana clamitans melanota Chelonia mydas Ambystoma maculatum Eumeces laticeps Elaphe obsolete obsoleta Hyla cinerea Bufo fowleri Rana palustris Refuge Habitats Glyptemys muhlenbergii Rana sylvatica Species List and Priority Four-toed salamander Four-toed AMPHIBIANS (cont.) toad Fowler’s Green treefrog Marbled salamander New Jersey chorus frog Northern green frog Northern red salamander Northern spring peeper Pickerel frog Southern leopard frog Spotted salamander frog Wood REPTILES green turtle Atlantic hawksbill turtle Atlantic leatherback turtle Atlantic loggerhead turtle Atlantic Black rat snake Bog turtle Broadhead skink Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-57

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 1 2 2 1

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

EE 1

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYrYrYr EYr Yr Yr 1 Yr Yr 1 2 Yr 2 Yr Yr 2 2 SpSF 2 Pseudemys Pseudemys Storeria occipitomaculata Malaclemys terrapin terrapin Chelydra serpentine Lepidochelys kempii erodia erythrogaster Heterodon platirhinos Storeria dekayi Chrysemys picta Nerodia sipedon Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen Coluber constrictor Lampropeltis triangulum Kinosternon subrubrum subrubrum Terrapene carolina Terrapene Lampropeltis getula

Regina septemvittata Refuge Habitats Elaphe guttata Species List and Priority rubiventris REPTILES (cont.) Corn snake Diamond Back Terrapin Eastern box turtle Eastern hognose snake Eastern kingsnake Eastern milk snake Eastern mud turtle Eastern painted turtle Eastern snapping turtle ridley sea turtle Kemp’s Northern black racer Northern brown snake Northern copperhead Northern red-bellied snake occipitomaculata Northern water snake Queen snake Redbelly water snake N Red-bellied turtle/Northern red-bellied cooter D-58 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 2 2D

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYrYrYr S2 S2 S2 2 2 1 Yr YrYr Yr S2Yr 2 1 SpS XSpS D 2 SpSS X D SpSFSpSF XSpSF XSpSF X S1 X 1 1 2 D D

Virginia valeriae Virginia Lampetra appendix Opheodrys aestivus Cottus caeruleomentum Alosa aestivalis Menidia menidia Acipenser oxyrinchus Micropogonias undulatus Ictalurus melas Alosa sapidissima Enneacanthus obessus Ictalurus melas Clemmys guttata Thamnophis sauritus Anguilla rostrata Pomoxis nigromaculatus Pomoxis Anchoa mitchilli Refuge Habitats sh sh Sternotherus odoratus Alosa pseudoharengus Species List and Priority REPTILES (cont.) Ribbon Snake Rough green snake Smooth/Eastern earthsnake Spotted turtle Stinkpot FISH Alewife American brook lamprey American Eel American Shad croaker Atlantic silverside Atlantic sturgeon Atlantic Banded killiﬁ Banded sunﬁ Bay anchovy Black bullhead Black crappie Blueback herring Blue ridge sculpin Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-59

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 1 1 2

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr Yr Yr YrYr Yr YrYr SE Yr S2YrYr 2 Yr Yr 2 SpS 2 SpSFSpSF SpSF S2 X S2 2 2

nis Apeltes quadracus Umbra pygmaea Lampetra aepyptera Enneacanthus gloriosus Micropterus salmoides Menidia beryllina Notropis chalybaeus Ameiurus nebulosus Ictalurus punctatus sh Esox niger Notropis amoenus Ameiurus nebulosus Caranx hippos Etheostoma vitreum Gambusia affi Alosa mediocris Notropis bifrenatus Dorosoma cepedianum Refuge Habitats Dormitator maculates sh sh Cyprinus carpio Species List and Priority FISH (cont.) Bluespotted sunfi Bridle shiner Brown bullhead Brown Shiner Carp Chain pickerel Channel catfi Comely shiner Cravelle jack Eastern mudminnow sleeper Fat stickleback Fourspine Gizzard shad Glassy darter Hickory shad Inland silverside Ironcolor shiner Largemouth bass Mosquito fi Least brook lamprey D-60 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 1D 1

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYr Yr Yr Yr S2Yr Yr Yr Yr 1 YrYrYr Yr S3Yr Yr 1 2 SpSF XSpSF I

Cyprinodon variegatus Moxostoma macrolepidotum Acipenser brevirostrum Lucania parva Lepomis auritus Paralichthys dentatus Paralichthys Membras martinica Prosopium cylindraceum Fundulus majalis Fundulus Fundulus luciae Fundulus Mugil cephaslus Pomoxis annularis Pomoxis sh lepomis gibbosus sh Percina peltata Percina Ameiurus catus Fundulus heteroclitus Fundulus Refuge Habitats Acantharchus pomotis Gobisoma bosc Morone saxatilis sh sh sh sh ounder sh Leiostomus xanthurus n killifi n Species List and Priority FISH (cont.) Mud sunfi Mummichog Naked goby Pumpkinseed Rainwater killifi Redbreast sunfi Rough silverside Round whitefi Sheepshead minnow Shield darter Shorthead redhorse Shortnose sturgeon Spot Spotfi Striped bass Striped killifi Striped mullet Summer fl White catfi White crappie Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-61

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 2

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

E1 E1 E1 E1 E1

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

T2 E1

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 Yr Yr Yr YrYr Yr Yr S3Yr Yr 1

Uca pugnax Uca minax (730+ species documented only a few are listed) avescens y Ameiurus natalis refl ddler crab Catostomus commersoni Mugil curema Perca fl Perca Refuge Habitats Carcharodon carcharias Morone americana ddler crab Callinectus sapidus Rithropanopeus harrisii n Species List and Priority FISH (cont.) White mullet White perch White shark White sucker bullhead Yellow perch Yellow SHELLFISH marsh fi Atlantic Blue claw Mud crab Red-jointed fi INVERTEBRATES American burying beetle Bethany beach fi elfi Frosted Hessel’s hairstreak King’s hairstreak Mulberry wing Northeastern beach tiger beetle D-62 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State 3

E1 E1 E1 E1 S1 1

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYrYrYr S1Yr S1Yr S1YrYr 2 Yr S1Yr 1 S1Yr 1 S1 S1 S1Yr 2 S1 2 S1 2 2 2 S1 2 1 1 SpSFSpSF S2 S1 2 2 y) (730+ species documented only a few are listed) Papaipema maritima Papaipema Cincindela hirticollis Atlides halesus (Marbled underwing) (STATE RECORD Fireﬂ (STATE Pompeius verna Pompeius (Tearful underwing) (Tearful Anatrytone logan Darapsa versicolor Ischnura kellicotti Lycaena hyllus (S1G3) Nannothemis obella (New Species to Science) (STATE RECORD) (STATE

Refuge Habitats ower borer Species List and Priority n Skipper INVERTEBRATES (cont.) INVERTEBRATES Rare skipper Seth forest water scavenger beetle Spectral / Little white Dune ghost tiger beetle White tiger beetle Beach Dune Tiger Beetle Bronze Copper Catocala lacrymosa C. marmorata C. muliercula Delaware Skipper Drasteria graphica Elﬁ Great Purple Hairstreak Hydrangia sphinx Lilypad Forktail Little Glassy Wing Maritime sunﬂ Megamelus sp Photuris pyralominus tremulans P. Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-63

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 2 2 2 2 2

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 YrYrYr S1Yr Yr S1YrYr S1 1 Yr 1 S1 S1 1 S2 S2 1 2 2 2 (New species description- (Unknown – No Inventories or Research ever conducted on Refuge) (730+ species documented only a few are listed) Exyra fax Xestia youngii Xestia Nehalennia gracilis (COUNTY RECORD Long-Horned Beetle) (New Species to Describe) Refuge Habitats Archasia pallida ? (STATE RECORD) (STATE oater oater cation) Species List and Priority INVERTEBRATES (cont.) INVERTEBRATES frontalis P. Photuris BBB Pitcher Plant Borer Moth Prionus laticollis Southern Broken Dash hopper Tree Sphagnum sprite blueberry darter Young Zale metata Z. metatoides MUSSELS FRESHWATER Alewife fl Angular disc Armed snaggletooth Black gloss Brook fl Coastal plain tigersnail classifi D-64 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State

E1 E1 E1

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

EE 1

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 (Unknown – No Inventories or Research ever conducted on Refuge) Refuge Habitats oater Species List and Priority FRESHWATER MUSSELS (cont.) FRESHWATER Creeper/ Squawfoot Crested vertigo Dwarf wedgemussel Eastern lampmussel Eastern pond mussel Flamed tigersnail Glass spot Gray-foot lancetooth Hairy slitmouth Honey vertigo Northern lance mussel Northern three-tooth Obese thorn Pyramid dome Slender walker Swamp vertigo Tidewater mucket hive Toothed ﬂ Triangle Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-65

Refuge Resources of Concern

Waterfowl Plan Waterfowl

MANEM Conservation Priority Conservation MANEM

Waterbird Plan Waterbird

ate rankings)

Shorebird Plan-Atlantic Flyway Plan-Atlantic Shorebird 9

Comprehensive

(USFWS Trend Data) Trend (USFWS

Federal Trust Fish Species Species Fish Trust Federal

Concern

USFWS Birds of Conservation Conservation of Birds USFWS

Conservation Plan Priorities Plan Conservation

State Comprehensive Wildlife Wildlife Comprehensive State 2 2

PIF 44 PIF

BCR 30 BCR

State T&E State 3 E1

ce of US Fish and Wildlife Service, Hadley, MA. Sept. 2006. Service, and Wildlife Hadley, ce of US Fish

Federal T&E for DE for T&E Federal

T T T T T E E

BIDEH

Refuge Purpose Species Purpose Refuge

Seasons on Refuge on Seasons 1 le developed by the Federal Aid offi le developed by the Federal (Unknown – No Inventories or Research ever conducted on Refuge) Refuge Habitats T = threatened; E endangered Species List and Priority US Fish and Wildlife Service. and Wildlife Threatened and Endangered Species System (TESS).US Fish Report for the state of Delaware, and Delaware FRESHWATER MUSSELS (cont.) FRESHWATER White-lip dagger mantleslug Winding lampmussel Yellow PLANTS American Chaffseed Seabeach amaranth Canby’s dropwart Knieskern’s beaked-rush Sensitive joint-vetch Small whorled pogonia Swamp pink Individual Rare Plant Species recorded on Refuge (See Habitat Management Plan {HMP} for comprehensive plant species list and st Seasons on the Refuge: Sp = Spring; S = Summer; F = Fall; W = Winter; YR = Year-Round W = Winter; Seasons on the Refuge: Sp = Spring; S Summer; F Fall; 1 2 Wildlife Conservation Strategy. 2005. Data from the Excel fi ConservationWildlife Strategy. D-66 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Refuge Resources of Concern ce U.S. Fish Atlantic Coast Joint Atlantic y Bird Offi rginia. 99pp. (Online ce of US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Wildlife ce of US Fish Service, and Wildlife ce of US Fish le developed by the Federal Aid offi le developed by the Federal Aid offi le developed by the Federal sh, reptiles, amphibians and non-arthropod invertebrates. For arthropod invertebrates (209 species), only the federal and sh, reptiles, amphibians and non-arthropod invertebrates. For state listed endangered and threatened species are listed. Listed all birds, mammals, fi Delaware Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. 2005. Data from the Excel fi ConservationDelaware Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy. New England Bird ConservationBCR 30 Mid-Atlantic/Southern Implementation Plan, June 2008. Melanie Steinkamp, Region. Final In Flight. Updated Northeast Physiographic Areas PIF Scores, October 2003. Migrator Coastal Plain Partners PIF 44 Mid-Atlantic 2005. Data from the Excel fi ConservationDelaware Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy. Service. and Wildlife 2002. Birds of conservationUS Fish concern 2002. Division of Migratory Bird Management, Arlington, Vi Data. Trend Service and Wildlife Population Species US Fish Fish Trust Federal Hadley, MA. Sept. 2006. Hadley, E = endangered; T threatened Does not include state listed plants. MA. Sept. 2006. Hadley, 1 = most in need 2 = in need, not as urgent 3 4 Laurel, MD. Venture, 5 HH=highest priority: H = high priority; M medium priority MA. Service,and Wildlife Hadley, 1a = high continental concern and high regional responsibility 1b = high continental concern and low regional responsibility 2a = high regional concern 2b = high regional responsibility 2c = high regional threats 3 = additional federally listed species 6 4 = additional state listed species 7 version available at http://migratorybirds.fws.gov/reports/bbc2002.pdf) 8 I = increasing; D decreasing Appendix D. Refuge Resources of Concern D-67 Refuge Resources of Concern rica. Framework: Framework: Waterbird Con- Waterbird an Davidson, Loney otential threat as well. sed in Version 2 of the sed in Version b) increasing but with ichard Paul, Roberto ichard Paul, te y Recursos Naturales, ericas: The North American reasing but with known or cant population declines and either low potential threats and moderate to restricted distributions; or c) of size. populations or some other high risk factor. known or potential threats and moderate to restricted distributions; c) of size. 10 – Regional waterbird population conservation England/Maritimes region of North Ame priorities in the Mid-Atlantic/New Table HH = highest; H high; M moderate; L low (did not include all the Low species) North American Waterbird Conservation Plan North American Waterbird MANEM Waterbird Working Group. 2006. Waterbird Conservation England/Maritimes Region: 2006-2010. Plan for the Mid-Atlantic/New Group. 2006. Waterbird Working MANEM Waterbird Waterbird Plan: James A. Kushlan, Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine C. Parsons, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, I Cruz, Malcolm Coulter, Jack Capp, Martin Acosta Melanie J. Steinkamp, Katharine C. Parsons, Plan: James A. Kushlan, Waterbird North American Waterfowl Management Plan, Plan Committee. 2004. North American Waterfowl Management Plan 2004. Implementation Management Plan, Plan Committee. 2004. North American Waterfowl North American Waterfowl North Atlantic Regional Shorebird Plan. Clark and Niles 2000. North Atlantic Strengthening the Biological Foundation. Canadian Wildlife Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Service, and Wildlife Canadian Wildlife Secretaria de Medio Ambien U.S. Fish Strengthening the Biological Foundation. 106 pp. trend 1970 – 2003: Population I = increasing; S stable; D decreasing; U unknown 1 = species not at risk – all other where there is apparently no current risk of population decline. 9 plus all species with signifi 5 = highly imperiled – all species listed as threatened or endangered nationally, 4 = species of high concern – populations of these species are known or thought to be declining and have some other p 3 = species of moderate concern – populations of these species are either a) declining with moderate threats or distributions; 2 = species of low concern – populations of these species are either a) stable with moderate threats and distributions; b) inc 10 11 servation for the Americas (www.waterbirdconservation.org). 12 Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Kyra Mills, R Kyra Dickson, Naomi Edelson, Richard Elliot, R. Michael Erwin, Scott Hatch, Stephen Kress, Robert Milko, Steve Miller, Conservation for the Am 2002. Waterbird Wohl. and Kent Jennifer Wheeler, Phillips, Jorge E. Saliva, Bill Sydeman, John Trapp, DC, U.S A. Conservation for the Americas. Washington, 1. Waterbird Conservation Plan, Version Waterbird HI = highly imperiled; H high risk; M moderate L low NR not currently at risk; - = species to be asses D-68 Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement