Steller Sea Lion Is Given Emergency Protection

May 1990 Vol. XV No. 5

Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Technical Bulletin Service, Washington, D.C. 20204

Steller Sea Lion is Given Emergency Protection

Responding to a dramatic decline in Register. The Fish and Wildlife Service Aleutian Islands, the Bering Sea, the Gulf the number of Steller or northern sea codified the determination, and on April of Alaska, and along the Pacific coastline lions {Eumetopias jubatus) in Alaska, 10, the Steller sea lion was added to the down to southern California. More than the National Marine Fisheries Service List of Endangered and Threatened 50 breeding colonies or rookeries have (NMFS) has taken emergency action to Wildlife. The 240-day emergency rule is been identified in the United States. Most protect this species throughout its range effective through December 3, 1990. of the rookeries are on isolated islands, under the Endangered Species Act. The Steller sea lion is a large seal, with free from human disturbance, in the Gulf The emergency action was prompted males reaching up to 11 feet (350 centi- of Alaska and southern Bering Sea. by a November 1989 petition from meters) in total length and weighing over the Environmental Defense Fund and 1 ton (910 kilograms). Females are much Decline in Numbers 17 other environmental organizations to smaller, averaging about 8 feet (240 cm) list all populations of the Steller sea lion in in total length and weighing about In the 1970's, the number of Steller sea Alaska as Endangered. NMFS, which has 605 pounds (275 kg). The species' diet lions in the eastern Aleutian Islands responsibility under the Endangered consists mainly of various fishes (such as (which has one of the largest concen- Species Act for most marine species, pollock, halibut, herring, salmon, cod, and trations in the United States) began de- subsequently concluded that the species flounder), octupi, and crustaceans. clining. The decline subsequently spread should be listed as Threatened on an The Steller sea lion's range extends to the western Gulf of Alaska, the central emergency interim basis and published a from Japan through the Soviet Union's (continued on page 9) determination in the April 5, 1990, Federal Kuril Islands, the Okhotak Sea, the

Steller sea lions hauled out on the Chiswell Islands, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge

ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) otter known to have been weaned at the island. Frequent mating behavior was observed among the sea otters, indicating that the otters' social behavior appears to be normal. * * * Preliminary indications from the 1990 population census of the least Bell's vireo {Vireo bellii pusillus) suggest that last year's significant population decline will not be repeated this year. At least three major areas (Prado Basin, Pilgrim Creek, and San Diego River) already support more birds than in 1989.

The Service's Ventura, California, Field Station staff recently met with Southern California Edison, Seneca Resources Corporation, and Santa Fe Petroleum Corporation to discuss the burial of trans- Regional endangered species Wildlife Service In April 1990, found mission lines in the vicinity of the Andean staffers have reported the following 15 adult southern sea otters (Enhydra condor {Vultur gryphus) experimental news: luths nereis), Including two adults that had release site. Burying the transmission Region 1—The latest survey of San not been observed since October 1989, lines would reduce the possibility of the Nicolas Island, conducted by the Fish and and one new pup. The pup is the first sea condors being electrocuted. The com- panies would like to cooperate with the Service and are exploring the economic U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Region 3, Federal BIdg., Fort Snelling, Twin feasibility of burying the transmission Washington, D.C. 20240 Cities, MM 55111 (612-725-3500); James lines. C. Gritman, Regional Director; Gerald R. John Turner, Director Lowry, Assistant Regional Director; * « * (202-343-4717) Ronald L. Refsnider, Endangered Species The 1990 California condor {Gym- Ralph O. Morgenweck Specialist. Assistant Director for Fish nogyps californianus) breeding season came to a close with the hatching of two and Wildlife Enhancement Region 4, Richard B. Russell Federal BIdg., more condors at the San Diego Wild Ani- (202-343-4646) 75 Spring St., S.W., Atlanta, GA 30303 William E. Knapp, Chief, (404-331-3580); James W. Pulliam, mal Park and Los Angeles Zoo. The cap- Division of Endangered Species and Regional Director; David Flemming, En- tive condors produced a total of 15 eggs Habitat Conservation dangered Species Specialist. this season, of which 8 hatched. All (703-358-2161) 8 chicks are doing well. Biologists will not Marshall P. Jones, Chief, Region 5, One Gateway Center, Suite 700, try to determine the sex of the condor Office of IVIanagement Authority Newton Corner, MA 02158 (617-965- chicks for another 6 to 7 months in order (703-358-2093) 5100); Ronald E. Lambertson, Regional to avoid stress that could kill the birds. Clark R. Bavin, Chief, Director; Ralph Pisapia, Assistant There are now 40 California condors, all Regional Director; Paul Nickerson, En- Division of Law Enforcement of them in two captive breeding facilities. (703-358-1949) dangered Species Specialist. The number of condors has almost TECHNICAL BULLETIN Region 6, P.O. Box 25486, Denver Federal doubled since 1982, when there were Michael Bender, Editor Center; Denver, CO 80225 (303-236- 22 condors. The Service hopes to begin Michael Rees, Assistant Editor 7920); Galen Buterbaugh, Regional Direc- releasing condors into the wild as early as (703-358-2186) tor; Robert E. Jacobsen, Assistant 1991. Regional Director; Larry Shanks, Endan- Meanwhile, the Service is soliciting Regional Offices gered Species Specialist. nominations for a third captive breeding Region 1,1002 N.E. Holladay St., Portland, Region 7,1011 E. Tudor Rd., Anchorage, AK facility for California condors. Readers OR 97232-4181 (503-231-6118); Marvin 99503 (907-786-3542); Walter O. Stieglitz, with suggestions are Invited to contact the Plenert, Regional Director; Robert P. Regional Director; Rowan Gould, Assis- Ventura Field Office, 2291-A Portola Smith, Assistant Regional Director; Bob tant Regional Director; Ron Garrett, En- Ruesink, Endangered Species Specialist Road, Suite 300, Ventura, California dangered Species Specialist. 93003 (telephone: 805/644-1766; FTS Region 2, P.O. Box 1306, Albuquerque, MM Region 8 (FWS Research and Development 983-6039). * * « 87103 (505-766-2321); Michael J. Spear, nationwide), Washington, D.C. 20240; Regional Director; James A. Young, John D. Buffington, Regional Director; A\ Region 3—The Fish and Wildlife Serv- Assistant Regional Director; Steve Sherk, Endangered Species Specialist ice's Marion, Illinois, Field Office has been Chambers, Endangered Species (703-358-1710). working with the U.S. Forest Service's Specialist. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regions Shawnee National Forest to update Its "Standards and Guides for the Manage- Region 1: California, Hawaii, Idalio, Nevada, Oregon, Wasliington, American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the Pacific Trust Territories. Region 2: Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Region ment of Timber Harvests." One standard 3: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Region 4: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, in this internal agency document has spe- Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin cial significance for protecting the Endan- Islands. Region 5: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, gered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia. Region 6: Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Region 7; Alaska. Region 8: Research and southern Illinois. The Forest Service Is Development nationwide. Region 9: Washington, D.C., Office. considering changing the current standard THE ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN is published monthly by the U.S. Fish that preserves wooded corridors along and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240. both sides of perennial streams In the Shawnee National Forest, expanding It to include intermittent streams. Expansion of (continued on page 11)

2 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) 1989 Amendments to CITES Strengthen Protection for Endangered Wildlife and Plants

Susan S. Lieberman species is subject to regulation, and is (Stricter domestic measures for trans- Office of Management Authority allowed only if export permits are ob- porting live animals exist in many coun- Washington, D.C. tained stating that trade will not harm the tries, including the United States. The species. Appendix III lists species that domestic regulations for transporting live The international trade in plants and individual CITES Parties identify as animals to the United States (50 CFR 14) wildlife, including whole plants, animal subject to domestic regulations for the are currently being revised.) skins, body parts, worked pieces, and live purpose of restricting or preventing The Parties to CITES also established specimens, is both big business and a exploitation. Permits also are required for a Working Group on Transport of Live major factor affecting worldwide biodiver- trade in Appendix III species. Specimens to monitor transport conditions sity. It is estimated that the international About every 2 years, the CITES Parties and transport-induced mortalities and to plant and animal trade is worth more than meet to review the international plant and assist the Parties in implementing perti- $5 billion annually, of which up to 30 per- wildlife trade, amend the appendices as nent resolutions. cent may be illegal. Public attention needed (either placing species in the Captive Breeding: Captive-bred ani- recently has focused on such issues as appendices or transferring them among mals of Appendix I species are treated as the slaughter of African elephants (Loxo- the appendices), and adopt resolutions to if they are on Appendix II. It is therefore donta africana) for the ivory trade, the ille- further strengthen plant and wildlife critical to effectively control and regulate gal trade in chimpanzees (Pan troglo- protection. commercial operations that breed Appen- dytes), and the near-extinction of the Afri- dix I animals. At the October meeting, the can black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) Parties established criteria for proposals for its horn. But many little-known, October 1989 Conference to register the first commercial captive- ecologically significant species also have breeding operation for an Appendix I ani- been seriously depleted by international Resolutions mal species. Between now and the next commerce. The seventh meeting of the CITES conference in 1992, the United States will Twenty years ago, there was virtually Conference of the Parties took place in review this resolution, as well as any pro- no international regulation of the trade Lausanne, Switzerland, October 9-20, posals submitted pursuant to it. in plants and wildlife. In 1972, the 1989. The meeting attracted more press United Nations Stockholm Conference on and world community attention than all of the Human Environment recommended the previous conferences, largely due to Changes in the Appendices worldwide controls over this market. In the ivory trade and the crisis facing the The Parties considered many different response, the Convention on International African elephant. But the October meeting proposals to amend the CITES Appen- Trade in Endangered Species of Wild addressed many other important issues, dices (see F.R. 9/5/89 and F.R. 10/6/89) Fauna and Flora (CITES) was developed including increased protection for several at the October meeting, most of which and signed at a 1973 conference in species and changes in implementing the passed. They have been incorporated as Washington, D.C. As of May 1990, treaty. Fifteen resolutions were passed at a final rule in U.S. regulations. (See F.R. 107 countries have become Parties the meeting, which addressed a wide 12/15/89 for a list of the decisions of the (member countries) to CITES. range of issues. Two of the resolutions October meeting, and F.R. 2/20/90 for a CITES has become the major interna- addressed the shipment of live animals list of all of the changes to the CITES tional effort for global plant and wildlife and captive breeding. Appendices, as implemented in 50 CFR protection and is probably the best known Shipment of Live Animals: CITES has 23.23.) international conservation treaty. The been addressing the problems of shipping African Elephants: After a long, con- trade in hundreds of species of verte- live animals since its inception. The wel- tentious debate, the Parties agreed at the brates, invertebrates, and plants is regu- fare of individual animals in transit is conclusion of the October meeting to lated by CITES. However, the treaty only specifically covered in the text of the Con- place all African elephant populations on covers species that are affected by inter- vention, which requires Parties to ensure Appendix I. An accompanying resolution national trade. (Species threatened that "any living specimen will be so pre- listed criteria that must be met for coun- mainly by habitat loss, for example, are pared and shipped as to minimize the risk tries to request the transfer of populations beyond the scope of CITES.) Because the of injury, damage to health or cruel treat- back to Appendix II. A panel of experts international plant and wildlife trade is ment." Efforts to reduce transport-induced also will be established to review these both monitored and regulated by the indi- mortalities improve the welfare of individ- requests, examining scientific, trade, and vidual CITES Parties, the effectiveness of ual animals and reduce the need to take law enforcement information. It is ex- the treaty depends on the law enforce- additional animals from wild populations. pected that some southern African coun- ment and regulatory infrastructure of each The resolution passed at the October tries will request the transfer of their country. meeting notes that "mortalities in trans- populations back to Appendix II. In port remain of significant concern ... and addition, China, South Afhca, the United undermine the concept of sustainable Which Species are Covered? Kingdom (for Hong Kong), Botswana, trade." The resolution includes three Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia have recommendations: CITES regulates the trade in plants and taken reservations and not accepted the animals in varying degrees, depending on • shipments should be cleared for inclusion of the African elephant on their biological status and vulnerability to export only if they have passed a health Appendix I. (A more detailed article on commercial exploitation. Three appen- and welfare checklist; recent actions taken to protect the African dices to the treaty identify how much pro- • Parties should gather information on elephant will be included in a future issue tection is provided to each species. the level and causes of mortality during of the BULLETIN.) Appendix I lists species in danger of transport; and Bats: Seven species of Pteropus (fruit extinction that are, or may be, affected by • all shipments should comply with the bats or flying foxes) from the Pacific international trade. Commercial trade in International Air Transport Association's region were moved from Appendix II to these species is prohibited. Appendix II (lATA) Live Animals Regulations for air Appendix I, and all other species of includes species that may become endan- transport, or the CITES' Guidelines for Pteropus, as well as all species in the gered if their trade is not brought under Transport of Live Specimens for terrestrial (continued on page 4) control. Commercial trade in Appendix II and marine shipments.

3 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) which 40,232 (74 percent) were imported Corals: Hard or reef-building corals are CITES Amendments into the United States, almost entirely for traded as souvenirs, aquarium decora- (continued from page 3) the commercial pet market. In proposing tions, jewelry, and for other decorative additional protection for the species at the purposes. It is estimated that the world genus Acerodon (flying foxes), were October meeting, Switzerland noted "the trade in raw ornamental corals is at least placed In Appendix II. CITES often only way to prevent the species from 2,000 tons (1,800 metric tons) a year, with includes an entire genus in Appendix II becoming extinct is to transfer it to Appen- the United States being the world's main because of problems with similarity of dix I." importer. Black corals (order Antipatharia) appearance and identification. This is par- Crocodiles: All members of the fam- are already in Appendix II. ticularly true for flying fox species, many ilies Alligatoridae and Crocodylidae are As a result of the October meeting, all of which are being seriously depleted for listed on either Appendix I or Appendix II. species in several taxa of hard corals human consumption. The discussions at the October meeting have been added to Appendix II. They Cats: Three species of New World about the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus include all species in the orders Sclerac- spotted cats—the little spotted cat (Felis niloticus), including export quotas, tinia and Coenothecalia, and all species tigrina), ocelot {Felis pardalls), and mar- "ranching" operations, and listing of geo- in the families Tubiporidae (order gay (Felis wiedii)—were transferred from graphic populations in the appendices, Stoloniferia), Milleporidae, and Syl- Appendix II to Appendix I. Some sub- were contentious. Although commercial asteridae (order Athecata). The export of species of each species were already ranching of crocodiles can limit the pres- these corals now requires permits stating listed on Appendix I, but Appendix I pro- sure on wild populations to sustainable that the trade will not harm wild popula- tection is now afforded to all subspecies. levels, concerns were expressed at the tions. It is hoped that the Appendix II list- The main threat to these cats has been meeting regarding the effect of some ing will provide improved trade informa- poaching and smuggling for the fur trade. ranching operations on the Nile crocodile. tion, stimulate improved management of Identification of skins from different sub- The Parties finally agreed to list wild coral reefs and coral populations, and specific populations has been difficult. populations of the Nile crocodile in stem the global loss of corals. Bears: Sloth bears {Melursus ursinus) Cameroon, Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Flower Bulbs: Massive collection were transferred from Appendix II to I, Madagascar, Somalia, Sudan, and Tan- of snowdrops (Galanthus spp.) and due to seriously declining populations and zania on Appendix II, subject to export sternbergia (Sternbergia spp.) flower the trade in bear gall bladders and other quotas; wild populations in Botswana, bulbs from wild populations, mostly in Tur- parts. There is also evidence that the cap- Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zim- key (a non-Party), poses a serious threat ture of cubs for entertainment purposes is babwe were listed on Appendix II, under to the survival of these plants in the wild. a threat to the species. The sloth bear, CITES ranching criteria. All other wild More than 49 million bulbs of snowdrops, once common in most forests of its range populations remain on Appendix I. The an extremely popular spring-flowering in Sri Lanka, India and Nepal, is now CITES Parties will continue to monitor the garden bulb, are traded every year. At the rapidly disappearing in the wild. trade in the skins of all species of October meeting, the Parties agreed to The trade in brown bears {Ursus crocodiles. include all species and natural hybrids of arctos), including skins, gall bladders for Lizards and Snakes: The Caiman liz- Galanthus and Sternbergia in Appendix II. medicinal purposes, meat and paws for ard (Dracaena paraguayensis), found in It is hoped that the Appendix II listing will human consumption, claws for decorative Paraguay, Brazil, and possibly Bolivia, provide improved trade information, purposes, and live animals for zoos and was placed on Appendix II due to its sim- encourage necessary scientific studies, circuses, is a significant threat to the sur- ilarity of appearance and taxonomic con- and stimulate captive propagation of the vival of many subspecies. In the past, the fusion with Dracaena guianensis, which is flower bulbs. treatment of brown bear subspecies in heavily traded for its skin. The Chinese Succulents: Several species of suc- CITES has been confusing, with some crocodile lizard {Shinisaurus crocodilorus) culents were transferred from Appendix II subspecies not on the appendices, some was placed on Appendix II due to increas- to Appendix I. Three dwarf species of listed on Appendix II, and some on ing demand for it in the European and Pachypodium and their natural hybrids, Appendix I. As a result of the October American pet trade. (The wild population as well as all dwarf species of the sub- meeting, brown bear populations in is estimated at approximately 2,500.) genus Lacanthis of the genus Euphorbia Afghanistan, India, Mexico (the Mexican Three snake species—the oriental rat and their natural hybrids, are now listed grizzly bear), Nepal, and Pakistan are snake {Ptyas mucosus), Asiatic cobra on Appendix I. These unusual succulents, listed on Appendix I, while all other {Naja naja), and king cobra (Ophiopha- endemic to Madagascar, are particularly populations in the world, except those in gus hannah)—were transferred from vulnerable to overcollection by commer- the Soviet Union, are on Appendix II. It Appendix III to Appendix II. These special suppliers due to high collector inter- is hoped that this increased regula- cies, found throughout Southeast Asia est. Although trading wild specimens of tion and protection will help stem the and the Indian subcontinent, are traded these succulents is now prohibited by trade-induced decline of many bear mostly for the exotic leather industry. The CITES, artificially propagated specimens populations. oriental rat snake is probably the most still can be traded with export permits. It is Birds: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Serv- heavily traded snake in the world, with at hoped that listing the plants will stimulate ice is very concerned that psittacines least 1.8 million skins entering trade every increased artificial propagation and (parrots) and other bird species are being year. The Appendix II listing will allow for reduce the pressure on diminishing wild traded at levels that their wild populations more extensive monitoring of the trade in populations. cannot sustain. Three species of psit- these ecologically important species. Orchids: Two genera of slipper tacines were transferred from Appendix II Fishes: Of particular note, the Parties orchids, Paphiopedilum (from Southeast to Appendix I at the October CITES meet- agreed to transfer the coelacanth (Lati- Asia) and Phragmipedium (from South ing: Moluccan or salmon-crested cock- meria chalumnae) to Appendix I. This America), were transferred to Appendix I. atoo (Cacatua moluccensis), llliger's species, found only in deep waters of the These orchids have increased in commer- macaw {Ara maracana), and Tucuman Comores Archipelago near Madagascar is cial popularity and have been depleted in amazon {Amazona tucumana). CITES a unique "living fossil" only recently dis- the wild in many parts of their former identified the Moluccan cockatoo as a covered by science. The coelacanth was range due to overcollection. As with other "significantly traded species," which believed to have become extinct millions plants, it is hoped that this listing will stim- means that it is being detrimentally af- of years ago until it was rediscovered this ulate increased artificial propagation and fected by international trade. The species century. It is ironic that this last remaining reduce the collection of wild specimens. was placed in Appendix II in 1981. From representative of a unique phase in verte- 1981-1987, 54,600 imports of the Moluc- brate evolution is endangered due to the can cockatoo were reported to CITES, of museum and aquarium trade. (continued on page 6)

4 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Proposted Listing Rules — April 1990

Ten species of plants and animals were proposed by the Fish and Wildlife Service during April 1990 for listing as Threatened or Endangered. Four of these taxa—two plants and two animals—are native to the United States. The remaining six, all reptiles, are found only in other countries. If the proposed listings are approved. Endangered Species Act protection will be extended to the following:

Prairie Mole Cricket {Gryllotalpa major) As its name implies, this is a burrowing insect found in prairie habitat. Historically, it occurred widely throughout native tall- grass prairie in eastern Kansas and eastern Oklahoma, southwestern Mis- souri, and northwestern Arkansas. There are also records of disjunct populations in Illinois and Mississippi, but the species The prairie mole cricket fGryllotalpa major; is a large insect, measuring up to 2.5 inches apparently is extirpated in these States. (6.0 centimeters) in total length. This species is characterized by forelegs that are highly adapted for digging in prairie soils. Male mole cricitets dig specially designed burrow Almost all of the native prairie in these systems that contain a bulb-lii

5 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Proposed Listings periods by burrowing into the muck and recognition to a species' precarious sta- leaf litter of former wet areas. Some tur- tus, which encourages other conservation (continued from page 5) tles are taken for food and the local pet efforts by State and local agencies, inde- trade, but the greatest threat to this sub- pendent organizations, and concerned species is habitat loss. Seven out of the individuals. Six Foreign Reptiles eight known Cat Island turtle population Section 7 of the Act directs Federal sites have been damaged by conversion On April 24, the Service proposed to agencies to use their legal authorities to to aghculture and other uses. Land is fre- list the following foreign reptiles as further the purposes of the Act by carrying quently cleared for farming by burning off Endangered species; out conservation programs for listed spe- all natural vegetation, and charred turtle cies. It also requires these agencies to • Maria Island snake {Llophus carcasses are usually found when the ensure that any actions they fund, author- ornatus)—Originally found on the island brush and debris are removed. Extensive ize, or carry out are not likely to jeopard- of St. Lucia in the Caribbean, this snake surveys on Cat Island in 1987 located ize the survival of listed species. If an was thought to have become extinct in the only 350 turtles. agency finds that one of its activities may early 20th century until it was • Brazilian sideneck turtle (Phrynops affect a listed species, it is required to rediscovered on the nearby islet of Maria hogei)—First described in 1967, the Bra- consult with the Service on ways to avoid Major. Adults reach up to 3 feet (1 meter) zilian sideneck turtle is a rare native of the jeopardy. For species that are proposed in length and are black to olive-brown in Rio Paraiba and Rio Itapemirim drainages for listing and for which jeopardy is found. color, broken by a zig-zag pattern of in southeastern Brazil. This species has a Federal agencies are required to "confer" white/yellow spots. The current population particularly narrow head and neck, and a with the Service, although the results of is estimated to number 50 to 100 domed, elongated carapace measuring such a conference are not legally binding. individuals. up to 13 inches (34 cm) in length. Exten- Additional protection is authorized by • Maria Island ground lizard sive deforestation and increasing Section 9 of the Act, which makes it illegal (Cnemidophorus vanzoi)—This species development in the region have degraded to take, possess, transport, or engage in also probably occurred historically on St. the species' riverine habitat, making it silty interstate or international trafficking in Lucia but disappeared after non-native and polluted. The banks and marshes listed animals except by permit for certain predators (mongooses and rats) became along the river no longer support turtle conservation purposes. For plants, the established on the island. It survives on reproduction, and no juvenile specimens rules regarding "take" are different. It is Maria Major and Maria Minor. In 1973, have been found during periodic field unlawful to collect or maliciously damage both of these dry, rocky, volcanic islets collections. any Endangered plant on lands under were designated as a preserve for the • South American red-lined turtle Federal jurisdiction. Removing or damag- protection of their unique wildlife. Mature (Trachemys scripta callirostris)—Also ing listed plants on State and private Maria Island ground lizards can grow up referred to as the Colombian slider, this lands in knowing violation of State law or to 15 inches (38 cm) long and are gener- colorful subspecies once was common in in the course of violating a State criminal ally olive-green, with light striping down the river drainages of northern Colombia trespass law also is illegal under the Act. the back and lines of blue-gray spots and northwestern Venezuela. Much of its In addition, some States have their own along the sides. Fewer than 1,000 of the known habitat, however, has been heavily more restrictive laws specifically against lizards are believed to remain. damaged by erosion and industrial pollu- the take of State or federally listed plants tion. Petroleum facilities now occupy vir- and animals. • Inagua Island turtle (Trachemys tually all of the turtle's former habitat in stejnegeri malonei)—A subspecies of Venezuela, and many of the remaining the central Antillean slider, T. s. malonei is wetlands throughout the species' range endemic to Great Inagua Island in the are being drained and burned. Named for CITES Amendments Bahamas. Adult Inagua Island turtles the bright red extending back from its eye, (continued from page 4) have a green-brown, high-domed car- this attractive turtle also has a relatively apace up to 9.5 inches (24 cm) long and large (24-inch or 60-cm) carapace that is gray to olive-colored skin. These turtles CITES and The Fish and highly patterned with yellow bars and inhabit freshwater ponds, streams, and black and green concentric circles. It has Wildlife Service swamps that have abundant vegetation. appeared regularly in the European pet Part of the subspecies' habitat is within a The opening sentence of CITES states; trade for many years. Hatchlings are a preserve established for the native "... wild fauna and flora in their many bright emerald-green. The color and pat- flamingos. Existing salt ponds on the beautiful and varied forms are an irre- terning of these juveniles inspire some island may be permitted to expand placeable part of the natural systems of local people to gather large numbers of because, although parts of the preserve the earth which must be protected for this them for eventual sale as dried trinkets. would be inundated, flooding is not and the generations to come." The Serv- Large numbers of eggs and adult turtles ice firmly supports this goal, and is com- expected to harm the flamingos. also are gathered. mitted to the full implementation of However, salt water is lethal to the Inagua CITES. Island turtle. The pumping of freshwater ponds for drinking water to supply the For many species, CITES is a success. island's growing human population also Without the treaty, many populations in existence today might have been driven could reduce the turtle's habitat. An intro- Conservation IVIeasures to extinction by uncontrolled trade. The duced predator, the feral hog, is another Among the conservation benefits October 1989 CITES biennial meeting threat. There are an estimated 200 to 500 authorized by the Endangered Species accomplished a great deal, but much turtles remaining. Act are: protection from adverse effects of more work needs to be done to bring • Cat Island turtle {Trachemys ter- Federal activities; restrictions on take and trade down to sustainable levels for many rapen felis)—This subspecies, another trafficking; the requirement for the Service species. Bahamian turtle, occurs only on Cat to develop and implement recovery plans; For more information on CITES and the Island. Adults are inconspicuous, having a the authorization to seek land purchases United States' involvement in the treaty, carapace grayish-brown to yellowish-olive or exchanges for important habitat; and and to obtain copies of the CITES appen- in color with few if any markings. They Federal aid to State and Commonwealth dices, contact the Fish and Wildlife Serv- reach about 13 inches (32 cm) in car- conservation departments that have ice, Office of Management Authority, apace length. These turtles generally live approved cooperative agreements with Room 432-ARLSQ, 1849 C Street, N.W., around ephemeral ponds, and survive dry the Service. Listing also lends greater Washington, D.C. 20240.

6 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Final Listing Rules Approved for the Desert Tortoise and Seven Other Species

During April of 1990, final listing rules were published for the desert tortoise, one mussel species, and six plant species. Endangered Species Act protection is now available to the following;

Desert Tortoise {Gopherus agassizii) The desert tortoise has received much attention since the Fish and Wildlife Serv- ice took emergency action to list the Mojave population as Endangered on August 4, 1989 (see BULLETIN Vol. XIV, Nos. 9-10). During the 240-day life of the emergency rule, the Service studied the tortoise and its habitat, sought public input, and prepared a proposal to provide long-term Endangered Species Act protection to the population. On April 2, 1990, a final rule was published in the Federal Register listing the Mojave population of the desert tortoise as Threatened. The Beaver Dam Slope subpopulation in Utah, which was listed as Threatened with Critical Habitat in 1980 (see BULLETIN Vol. V, No. 9), is included as part of the greater Mojave population under this rule and is not treated separately; the area designated Desert tortoises in the Mojave population, such as this one in southern Nevada, are now as Critical Habitat in 1980 will remain in listed as Threatened. effect. The rule also treats all desert tortoises from the Sonoran population (south and east of the Colorado River) found out- Mojave population include illegal collec- the tortoise and its habitat, and may have side their native range as Threatened due tion, vandalism (including shooting and to consider other options to maintain the to their similarity in appearance to the the crushing of tortoises under vehicles), Mojave population. Mojave tortoises. (The Service will con- the spread of a fatal upper respiratory dis- There is normally little difference in the tinue to study the status of the Sonoran ease syndrome, and increasing predation protection given to an Endangered versus population and will make a determination of juvenile tortoises by common ravens a Threatened species under the En- early in 1991 on whether or not to prepare (Corvus corax) and other species. dangered Species Act. Anyone taking, a listing proposal.) The Service received more than 1,900 attempting to take, or otherwise illegally The desert tortoise is a long-lived rep- written and oral comments on its proposal possessing a desert tortoise without a tile that inhabits the Mojave, Colorado, to list the Mojave population of the desert permit will be subject to the same penal- Sonoran, and Sinaloan Deserts in the tortoise. After considering the best biolog- ties as if the population were listed as southwestern United States and Mexico. ical information available, the Service Endangered. Section 7 of the Act also will The Mojave population covers tortoises changed its classification of the Mojave continue to protect the species from north and west of the Colorado River in population from Endangered to Threat- Federal actions that could jeopardize its California, southern Nevada, south- ened. At the time the Service issued its survival. (Because the Bureau of Land western Utah, and northwestern Arizona. emergency rule listing the Mojave popula- Management, Department of Defense, At least 50 percent of the Mojave population as Endangered, the Service believed and National Park Service manage large tion's occupied habitat is managed by the that the presence of an upper respiratory areas within the tortoise's range, exten- Bureau of Land Management. disease syndrome could cause the extinc- sive Section 7 consultations will be The Mojave population has been de- tion of the population. The Service subse- required between the Service and these clining for many years, primarily due to quently learned that although the disease agencies.) The Service will use available increasing human activity. Urbanization, syndrome is widespread, some areas funding to determine the causes of, and energy development, mining, conversion appear to be unaffected or affected to a possible treatments for, the upper respira- of land to agriculture, livestock grazing, limited degree. Although the Mojave pop- tory disease syndrome infecting the off-road vehicle recreation, and military ulation in the eastern part of its range is tortoise; identify and isolate healthy popu- activities have destroyed or degraded tor- facing many other threats, particularly lations; investigate predator control to toise habitat. The growth of Las Vegas near urban centers, tortoise populations reduce the loss of immature tortoises; and other communities in the western had not been clearly documented as educate the public to discourage relocat- Mojave is expected to continue, which will declining throughout the eastern Mojave ing and releasing captive tortoises; and further reduce the tortoise's available hab- at the time of listing. Since the final rule address habitat issues such as land itat. Roads are fragmenting the remaining was published, however, the Service has acquisition, fencing, and habitat tortoise habitat, making the tortoise sub- identified apparently high tortoise mor- improvement. populations more vulnerable to extirpa- tality in some locations in the eastern Mojave. The Service is closely monitoring tion. Other threats to the survival of the (continued on page 8)

7 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Final Listing Rules throughout the silica sands of the northern Krai's Water-plantain coast of Puerto Rico, but extensive urban, (continued from page 7) industrial, and agricultural development {Sagittaria secundifolia) has reduced its range to three privately S. secundifolia is an aquatic perennial owned sites. Only 150 to 200 plants are plant in the water-plantain family (Alisma- Cobana negra known to occur in these areas. The taceae). Its distinguishing characteristics {Stahlia monosperma) largest population is threatened by sand include a stout, elongated rhizome, hairy extraction, squatters, and trash dumping. filaments, and deep-green linear leaves. This medium-sized evergreen tree in Road construction and a proposed office The species is only known to occur in the the pea family (Fabaceae) can reach up building complex could eliminate the other Little River system in northeast Alabama to 50 feet (16 meters) in height. It has pin- two populations, although there are plans and northwest Georgia. A dozen or more nately compound, alternately arranged to attempt a relocation of one population. local populations are scattered over leaves and yellow flowers. The tree is The Service proposed listing C. mirabilis approximately 25 river miles (40 kilome- endemic to Puerto Rico, the adjacent as an Endangered species April 14, 1989 ters). The plant typically occurs on fre- island of Vieques, and the Dominican (see BULLETIN Vol. XIV, No. 5), and the quently exposed shoals or rooted among Republic. The species was once common final rule was published April 5, 1990. loose boulders in quiet pools up to 3 feet on the edges of salt flats and shallow (1 meter) in depth. lagoons bordering mangrove forests; however, extensive filling and draining of Two Southern Appalachian Due to its restricted range, S. secun- these areas for coastal development and Plants difolia is extremely vulnerable to any cata- grazing, along with cutting of the trees for strophic event, such as flooding. The furniture and fenceposts, has reduced the Spreading avens (Gaum radiatum] clearing of the river banks for agriculture, species' distribution to a few small, scat- and Roan Mountain bluet {Hedyotis silviculture, residential/recreational devel- tered populations. The largest remaining purpurea var. montana) are two small opment, and surface mining contribute to population (23 mature trees and 35 seed- perennial herbs endemic to a few scat- water quality degradation, a major threat lings) occurs along the extreme south- tered mountaintops and cliff faces in to the survival of this species. Other eastern coast of Puerto Rico, an area western North Carolina and eastern Ten- threats include garbage dumping and under intense pressure for residential and nessee. The spreading avens, a member leaking sewage systems (which increase tourist development. Other mature trees of the rose family (Rosaceae), has a the growth of filamentous algae and are found on the northeast coast and on basal rosette of leaves and stems that decrease the amount of light available to U.S. Navy property on the island of grow up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) tall, S. secundifolia for growth and flowering), Vieques. These trees also are threatened topped with bright yellow flowers. Of the off-road vehicles that ford the river, un- by development of the wetlands and by 16 populations that have been reported stable impoundments that could break, cutting. The Service proposed listing S. historically, 11 survive: 6 populations on and a proposed hydroelectric impound- monosperma as a Threatened species on privately owned lands, 4 on U.S. Forest ment. The Service proposed that S. May 12, 1989 (see BULLETIN Vol. XIV, Service and National Park Service lands, secundifolia be listed as Threatened in No. 6), and the final rule was published in and 1 on park land managed by the State the October 18, 1989, Federal Register the April 5, 1990, Federal Register. of North Carolina. Seven of the popu- (see BULLETIN Vol. XIV, Nos. 11-12), lations have fewer than 50 plants and the final rule was published April 13, remaining. 1990. Palo de Rosa Roan Mountain bluet is a low-growing {Ottoschulzia rhodoxylon) perennial in the coffee family (Rubiaceae) that forms loose tufts up to 6 inches Arkansas Fatmucket The palo de rosa is another evergreen (15 cm) tall with bright purple flowers. Six tree that is endemic to Puerto Rico and of the seven recorded populations of this {Lampsilis powelli) the island of Hispaniola. This tree in the species remain, but two of these occupy a This medium-sized, freshwater mussel family Icacinaceae grows up to 15 feet total of less than 108 square feet prefers deep pools and backwater areas high (5 meters) and has thick, leathery (10 square meters). Five populations are in the Ouachita, Saline, and Caddo River leaves. Only nine of the trees are known on privately owned lands, and one is par- systems of central Arkansas. Water to exist in three areas in Puerto Rico: one tially on lands in Forest Service quality degradation is believed respon- tree grows on the limestone hills on the ownership. sible for the decline of this species. Silt north coast, seven grow in dry, limestone Although the reasons for the declines of and sediment from the construction of forests on the south coast, and one grows these species are not completely under- impoundments, runoff from small gravel on the serpentine soils of the western stood, habitat damage and loss probably operations and mines, timber harvest mountains. Urban, residential, and indus- have been major factors. The greatest operations, road construction, and agricul- trial expansion has greatly reduced the problem in the past probably was devel- ture affect all three river basins. The prob- forested area of Puerto Rico. Because so opment on the open mountain summits able range of the Arkansas fatmucket has few trees remain, the species is extremely inhabitated by these species. Such been reduced by over 40 percent vulnerable to continuing development, activity included the construction of trails, (138 river miles; 222 kilometers). There changes in forest management practices, parking lots, roads, buildings, observation are optimum habitat and good populations and natural disturbances (such as flash platforms, suspension bridges, and other in only about 20 percent (62 river miles; flooding). The Service proposed to list the recreational, residential, and commercial 100 km) of the total estimated historical palo de rosa as Endangered in the July facilities. All of the surviving populations range. The mussel continues to be threat- 27, 1989, Federal Register (see BUL- are threatened by residential and recrea- ened by impoundment construction, chan- LETIN Vol. XIV, No. 8); the final rule was tional development, habitat disturbance nel alteration, gravel dredging, and other published April 10, 1990. due to heavy use by hikers and climbers, activities in the watershed that degrade collection of the plants, and natural suc- water quality. The Service proposed to list cession. The Service proposed on July the Arkansas fatmucket as a Threatened Cassia mirabilis 21, 1989, that the spreading avens and species on July 27, 1989 (see BULLETIN This shrub, a member of the family Roan Mountain bluet be listed as Endan- Vol. XIV, No. 8), and the final rule was Fabaceae, grows up to 30 inches gered (see BULLETIN Vol. XIV, No. 8); published April 5, 1990. (1 meter) in height and has solitary, the final rule for both species was pub- yellow flowers. It was once distributed lished April 5, 1990.

8 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Dusky Seaside Sparrow Proposed for Removal From Endangered Species List

The Fish and Wildlife Service has Historically, duskies ocurred only in a Scott's seaside sparrow {Ammodramus proposed to formally remove the dusky small area near Titusville in Brevard maritimus peninsulae). Unfortunately, the seaside sparrow {Ammodramus mar- County, Florida. The salt marsh habitat advanced age of the captive dusky males itimus nigrescens), a small, dark song- to which this bird was restricted was created difficulties for the cross-breeding bird, from the List of Endangered and destroyed or changed by impoundments program, and none of the hybrid offspring Threatened Wildlife and Plants (F.R. (a means of mosquito control), drainage, have survived. 4/25/90). This subspecies became extinct development, and fire. By 1980, when the The proposed delisting of the dusky on June 16, 1987, when the last dusky, last few duskies were collected for a cap- also would revoke the bird's designated an old male referred by his keepers as tive breeding program, only six of the Critical Habitat. In the meantime, the Orange Band, died at a captive breeding birds remained—all of them males. After Service is reevaluating management facility in Florida (see BULLETIN Vol. XII, repeated searches failed to locate any options for the St. Johns National Wildlife Nos. 5-6). female duskies, an attempt was made to Refuge, which had been established for cross the males with females of the the conservation of the dusky.

Steller Sea Lion under the Endangered Species Act. This are to stop individuals from shooting at reinforces the Marine Mammal Protection sea lions, minimize disturbance of the (continued from page 1) Act restrictions on commercial take and animals, reduce incidental take in areas trade, although Alaska natives still will be where high concentrations of the sea lions Aleutian Islands, and the Kuril Islands of permitted to take animals for subsistence are expected, and facilitate enforcement. the Soviet Union. In 1989, 25,000 animals purposes. In addition, under Section 7 of (Exceptions are provided for emergency were counted in Alaska rookeries from the the Endangered Species Act, Federal situations, navigational transit of certain Kenai Peninsula to Kiska Island, com- agencies must ensure that any activities passages, scientific research permitted pared to 140,000 in 1956-60. This is a they authorize, fund, or carry out are not under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, drop of about 82 percent since 1960. The likely to jeopardize the survival of the and Alaska Natives taking animals for rate of decline is accelerating. population. If an agency finds that one of subsistence purposes.) The causes of the decrease have not its activities may affect the sea lion, it is • NMFS believes that the most serious been determined, but several factors are required to consult with NMFS on ways to declines in sea lion numbers have oc- suspected. Commercial fishing for pol- avoid jeopardy. curred in Alaskan waters and adjacent lock, herring, cod, salmon, and flatfishes To expedite the recovery of the Steller areas of the U.S. Exclusive Economic may be reducing important prey popula- sea lion, NMFS is taking several emer- Zone west of 141° W longitude. If NMFS tions for Steller sea lions. Sea lions are gency conservation measures: determines that more than 675 sea lions also taken incidentally during commercial • NMFS will use data collected from have been killed incidentally as a result of fishing operations in the Gulf of Alaska observers on commercial fishing vessels commercial fishing operations during and Bering Sea. It is estimated that to make monthly estimates of the level of 1990, it will publish a notice to prohibit the foreign and joint-venture commercial trawl incidental kill of Steller sea lions by kill of any additional sea lions in this area. fisheries incidentally killed 14,000 Steller certain fisheries. Additional observer NMFS may issue other emergency rules sea lions between 1973 and 1988. An programs may be established in other to allocate the number of sea lions in- unknown number of sea lions also may be fisheries in order for NMFS to monitor the cidentally taken among the various shot by fishermen at rookeries, haul out incidental take. fisheries, close areas to fishing, or take sites, and in the water near boats. • Although the Marine Mammal Pro- additional actions to ensure that com- Between 1963 and 1972, over 45,000 tection Act prohibits the intentional lethal mercial fishing operations do not exceed Steller sea lion pups were killed for the take of Steller sea lions in the course of the 675-animal quota. commercial fur trade in the eastern commercial fishing, fishermen have not • NMFS intends to aggressively en- Aleutians and Gulf of Alaska, which may been prohibited from harassing sea lions force the above regulations, provide explain the initial decline in this area. that are interfering with their gear or catch resources to cover areas where Steller (With the passage of the Marine Mammal by shooting at or near the animals. NMFS sea lions are most vulnerable, initiate a Protection Act of 1972, the commercial now prohibits such shooting. TIP/Reward Program, and promote public take and trade of the Steller sea lion • A buffer zone of 3 miles (5 kil- awareness. ceased. A small number of sea lions are ometers) has been established around • NMFS has established a team to still legally taken for subsistence purposes the principal Steller sea lion rookeries in prepare a recovery plan and develop in Alaska.) the Gulf of Alaska and the Aleutian recommendations for further conservation Other factors that may be contributing Islands. No vessels are allowed to op- measures. Members of the North Pacific to the decline include entanglement of erate within the buffer zones during the Fishery Management Council, Marine sea lions in marine debris, disease, period of the emergency rule. Similarly, Mammal Commission, State agencies, predation by killer whales or sharks, and no person may approach on land closer and other prominent scientists and en- disturbance of the rookeries. than one-half mile (0.8 km) or within sight vironmentalists will be invited to partici- of 32 Steller sea lion rookeries. On pate in developing and implementing a Effects of the Rule Marmot Island, traditionally the most recovery program. important Steller sea lion rookery in During the life of the emergency listing Throughout the 240-day life of the Alaska, no person may approach closer rule, NMFS will proceed with con- emergency rule, the Steller sea lion will than IV2 miles (2.4 km) of the eastern sideration of a rule to give the Steller sea receive all of the protection authorized shore. The purposes of these restrictions lion long-term protection.

9 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) New Manatee Sanctuary Established at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Robert 0. Turner structures. Boat-related incidents account 15 square miles (39 square kilometers) in Manatee Coordinator for 80 percent of the human-caused man- size, is located between Cape Canaveral Region 4 atee mortalities in Florida. The number of Air Force Station and the Kennedy Space deaths continues to increase as the num- Center, and encompasses the upper On March 1, the Fish and Wildlife ber of boats in Florida increases. Water- Banana River from the NASA causeway Service established a new sanctuary for control structures and locks, fishing gear, south to State Road 528. (The new sanc- the West Indian manatee {Trichechus poachers, and vandals also kill manatees. tuary is adjacent to another portion of the manatus) on Merritt Island National Wild- In 1989, 166 manatees died from all upper Banana River, approximately life Refuge in Brevard County, Florida. causes in Florida—a 25 percent increase 15 square miles in size, that NASA closed This sanctuary is the fourth one estab- over the total 1988 mortality. Fifty of the to all public access in 1962 for security lished by the Service in Florida; the first 1989 deaths resulted from collisions with reasons. This area also effectively serves three are small sanctuaries within Crystal boats. The high mortality rate is continu- as a manatee sanctuary.) River National Wildlife Refuge on Flor- ing in 1990, with 73 deaths in January The sanctuary strengthens the protec- ida's gulf coast. alone. The Service is concerned that the tion of manatees on the refuge and Often called the sea cow, the manatee manatee population cannot sustain this restricts some forms of public use that for- has an immense, grey-brown, walrus-like level of mortality. merly were available. No boats are body, a flat, rounded tail, and paddle-like allowed in the sanctuary with a gas or flippers. The average adult manatee is 9 electric motor on board (even if the motor feet (3 meters) long and weighs approx- Merrit Island National is not in use) at any time of the year. imately 1,200 pounds (540 kilograms). Wildlife Refuge and However, non-motorized craft, such as Manatees eat 4 to 11 percent of their canoes, rowboats, sailboards, sailboats, body weight daily, feeding on aquatic Manatee Sanctuary and other human or wind-powered ves- plants 5 to 8 hours a day. The species The Merritt Island National Wildlife sels, are permitted. The area has been has a low reproductive rate; manatees do Refuge, part of the John F. Kennedy posted to alert refuge visitors. not reproduce until they are 7 to 9 years Space Center, is managed by the Service Research has demonstrated that man- old, and then usually produce one calf under a cooperative agreement with the atees respond positively to sanctuaries. every 3 to 5 years. National Aeronautics and Space Admin- The new sanctuary will provide a large Manatees occur in scattered areas istration (NASA). The refuge encom- area where manatees can feed, rest, along the Atlantic and gulf coasts of the passes a large area of important manatee calve, and cavort without being harassed southeastern United States, the southern habitat. Aerial surveys conducted during by powerboats. Habitat quality also Gulf of Mexico, various Caribbean the last decade indicate that the upper should improve in this area. Powerboats islands, and the northeastern coast of Banana River portion of the refuge has operating in shallow water can dredge or South America, but cold winter tempera- the largest warm-water concentration of scour grass beds and increase turbidity, tures keep the United States' population manatees anywhere in the United States. thereby reducing light penetration and sea concentrated in Florida's shallow coastal Peak populations occur during the spring grass production. In addition, the power- waters, rivers, and springs. There is no and fall when up to 300 manatees are boat closure will reduce the number of exact figure on the total number of man- found in these waters. However, the anglers in the area, which may allow the atees, but aerial surveys of warm-water Banana River also has the highest num- Banana River's fish populations to refugia during the winter have docu- ber of manatee mortalities of any waters increase. Such an increase could benefit mented approximately 1,200 animals in in the State of Florida. Between 1975 and fishing in the waters surrounding the Florida. 1989, the bodies of 33 manatees that had sanctuary. been killed by boats or barges were The Service plans to restrict the use of Concern Over Manatee recovered from the Banana River. (Boats motors within the sanctuary for 5 years. probably were responsible for the fa- Deaths During this time, data concerning the talities of other manatees in the river, but effectiveness of the closure on manatees biologists could not confirm the cause of The Fish and Wildlife Service listed the will be gathered. At the end of this 5-year death in all cases.) manatee as Endangered in 1967. Human period, the Service will decide whether activities are the major threat to this spe- To reduce the number of manatee to continue, modify, or eliminate the cies and its habitat. Nearly half of the deaths, the Fish and Wildlife Service sanctuary. known manatee deaths in Florida today established a new sanctuary within the are due directly to human activities and refuge. The sanctuary, approximately

Emergency Protection Extended for Winter-Run Chinook Salmon in the Sacramento River

The National Marine Fisheries Service response to a major decline (see BUL- also will continue its coordination with the (NMFS) published a new emergency LETIN Vol. XV, No. 1). Since that time, State of California in managing the run interim rule in the April 2, 1990, Federal NMFS has published a proposed rule to and the salmon's habitat, and will partici- Register to continue providing En- give the run long-term protection as a pate in the State's review of sport and dangered Species Act protection to the Threatened species (F.R. 3/20/90). commercial fishing regulations. The new winter run of chinook salmon (On- The emergency rule continues the Crit- emergency rule is effective through chorhyr)chus tshawytscha) in the Sacra- ical Habitat designation of the Sac- November 28, 1990, by which time a deci- mento River, California. NMFS first listed ramento River channel and adjacent sion on long-term protection should be this run as Threatened under a 240-day riparian zones from the Red Bluff Diver- made. emergency rule on August 4, 1989, in sion Dam to the Keswick Dam. NMFS

10 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) recommendations was identified, based efforts of the Fish and Wildlife Service, Regional News on new research findings or group con- Canada, and northeastern States. (continued from page 2) sensus. The final report from the summit The State of New Jersey recently pro- should be available soon from the posed over 300 plant species, including the standard appears to be justified as a National Wildlife Federation. all federally listed species and listing can- result of recent western Illinois field stud- didates, for inclusion in its own endan- ies of Indiana bat movements and habitat Due to interest generated by a petition gered plant list. Although the State list use. If the Forest Service adopts this to list the Louisiana black bear {Ursus itself does not afford additional protection, expanded standard, it should aid in the americanus luteolus) and the Fish and State regulatory agencies will take meas- recovery of the bat. Wildlife Service's consideration of a listing proposal, the State of Mississippi has rec- ures to conserve these plants through their respective program authorities. Region 4—Three manatees (Tri- ommended using Pittman-Robertson chechus manatus) held by Sea World of funds to conduct research on black bear Professional biologists and volunteers Florida for rehabilitation have been populations and their habitat. The Loui- from Maine to North Carolina have begun released back into the wild. One manatee siana black bear historically occurred in the annual piping plover (Charadrius mel- had been rescued after suffering cold the southern half of Mississippi, but now odus) survey along the Atlantic coast. stress, one after being struck by a motor- occurs in small numbers in the Mississippi Last year's survey results from the Atlan- boat, and one after being caught in a crab Delta and in the loess bluffs bordering the tic coast Stales showed that the number trap. Hutch, a lO-foot (3-meter) long male, Mississippi River floodplain. of plovers increased to 709 birds, up from was released April 10 at Jensen Beach, 644 in 1988. The increases in the number Florida, near the spot where he had been The Fish and Wildlife Service has of breeding pairs throughout the region rescued. Mel, a 7.9-foot (2.4-m) long received the final report on a 2-year indicates that the intense cooperative male, and Liberty, a 7.3-foot (2.2-m) long status survey of sea-beach amaranth management and education effort being female, were released May 2 within the {Amaranthus pumilus), conducted by the conducted by Federal, State, and private new Banana River Manatee Sanctuary, North Carolina Plant Conservation Pro- conservation agencies is working. which is part of Merritt Island National gram (see the Region 4 news in BUL- Wildlife Refuge. (See the accompanying LETIN Vol. XIV, No. 5). This sand-binding Region 6—On April 16, the Woundfin story in this issue of the BULLETIN.) All plant, a Category 2 listing candidate, once Recovery Team met in St. George, Utah, three manatees were marked for future grew on Atlantic beaches from Nantucket, and was asked by the Service to include identification, and radio transmitters were Massachussetts, to South Carolina, but another Endangered fish, the Virgin River attached to their tails to monitor their now survives on only a few sites in North chub {Gila robusta semidnuda), in the movements. and South Carolina. Seawalls, riprap, and recovery effort. The new Virgin River other beach stabilization techniques are Endangered Fishes Recovery Team is Seventy-three manatee deaths were believed to threaten this plant by altering now working on an ecosystem recovery reported in Florida in January, the largest its habitat. Hurricane Hugo reportedly plan that will include both the Virgin River monthly total since surveys began in devastated many of the beaches where chub and the woundfin {Plagopterus 1974. (Another 8 deaths were reported large populations of seabeach amaranth argentissimus). from other States.) Most of the deaths occurred, but the effect this natural event (45) were attributed to extremely cold Following the meeting, the recovery may have on the species' long-term sur- weather in Florida in late December 1989. team members monitored several stations vival is unknown. Seven of the remaining deaths were from within portions of the Virgin River drai- boat and barge collisions, seven were nage that were chemically treated in late New populations of two plant species, from natural causes, and fourteen were 1988 and 1989 to eliminate red shiners bunched arrowhead {Sagittaria fas- from undetermined causes. Four of the {Notropis lutrensis). (See BULLETIN Vol. ciculata) and Cain's reedgrass {Cal- fourteen manatees that had died from XIV, Nos. 1-2.) The red shiner, a species amagrostis cainii), have been discovered. undetermined causes were dependent not native to the Virgin River, competes The Endangered bunched arrowhead site calves. with the woundfin and is one of the pri- was discovered in Henderson County, mary reasons for the species' decline. Another 14 manatee deaths were North Carolina, by biologists from the Fish The monitoring showed that several red reported in Florida during February, of and Wildlife Service's Asheville Field shiners were present. The persistence of which 9 were from undetermined causes Office and a North Carolina Natural the red shiner is a setback to recovery of (one of which was a dependent calf), Heritage Program contractor. The new the woundfin in the Virgin River. 4 were from watercraft collisions, and population of Cain's reedgrass, a Cate- 1 was from natural causes. gory 2 listing candidate, was discovered Region 7—Researchers at the Univer- on Blue Ridge Parkway land in the sity of Alaska in Fairbanks were success- The National Wildlife Federation, with Craggy Mountains of North Carolina. This ful recently in producing the first the financial assistance of Patagonia Inc., species previously was known only from sporophyte (i.e., the spore-producing the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation, Tennessee. The Asheville Field Office is phase of a plant) of the Endangered Aleu- and the George Bullard Foundation, working with the National Park Service to tian shield fern {Polystichum aleutlcum). brought 24 experts near Live Oak, redesign a planned visitor facility so Two previous attempts to propagate the Florida, on March 28-30 to discuss the that the rare grass and its habitat are plant in vitro were unsuccessful. One of biology and management of the red-cock- maintained. the rarest plants in Alaska, the Aleutian aded woodpecker {Picoides borealis). shield fern was listed in 1988 as Endan- Approximately 100 organizations were Region 5—The 1990 midwinter bald gered. Further studies of the fern's life contacted for recommendations on meet- eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) survey history and reproductive biology have ing participants and agenda items. The in New Jersey yielded encouraging been recommended to help identify the participants reached a consensus on results. Seventy bald eagles were possible causes of the plant's rarity. many key points during the course of the recorded duhng the 2-day event—a sig- meeting, which was managed by a team nificant increase from 1989 when Region 9—The Fish and Wildlife Serv- of mediators from the Southeast Negotia- 48 eagles were recorded. Also of special ice has increased its efforts to foster Afri- tion Network of Georgia Tech. University. note, the number of nesting bald eagle can elephant (Loxodonta africana) Of particular interest was the fact that pairs in the State increased this year to conservation by assisting African nations none of the current recovery plan recom- 4—the first time since the early 1970's in anti-poaching efforts. The Service's mendations were refuted. However, the that New Jersey has had more than Office of Management Authority repre- need for additional recovery measures 1 breeding pair. The increase in eagle sented the United States at an interna- and further specification of the existing activity can be attributed to the joint (continued on page 12)

11 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990) Regional News (continued from page 11) tional conference of potential elephant assistance donors in Paris on April 5-6, BOX SCORE witfi delegations from 20 other nations and 6 major conservation groups. The LISTINGS AND RECOVERY PLANS conference produced a declaration of support for African nations and a commit- ENDANGERED THREATENED 1 LISTED SPECIES ment to consider increased financial Category Foreign Foreign SPECIES WITH assistance. The U.S. already has pro- U.S. Only U.S. Only TOTAL PLANS vided more assistance for the elephant this year than any other nation, with the Mammals 52 244 8 22 326 25 Service dedicating $500,000 of its funds Birds 76 145 9 1 1 231 59 to anti-poaching efforts and the Agency Reptiles 15 59 17 14 105 24 for International Development's biodiver- Amphibians 6 8 5 0 1 19 5 sity program dedicating another $2 million Fishes 51 11 33 0 95 47 for general elephant conservation. The Snails 3 1 6 0 10 7 Service's funds will be used to assist the Clams 35 2 1 0 1 38 23 anti-poaching efforts of nations with sig- Crustaceans 8 0 1 0 4 1 ^ nificant regional elephant populations Insects 11 1 7 0 12 1 ^^ (such as Zambia and Gabon), for holding Arachnids 3 0 0 0 3 0 a law enforcement seminar in Tanzania Plants 173 1 56 2 1 232 105 for African game rangers, and for prepar- ing master conservation plans for TOTAL 433 472 143 39 1 1087* 311 " elephants in key nations. Total U.S. Endangered 433 (260 animals, 173 plants) The Secretariat of the Convention on Total U.S. Threatened ( 87 animals, 56 plants) International Trade in Endangered Spe- Total U.S. Listed 576 (347 animals, 229 plants) cies of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has been strengthened by two recent appoint- 'Separate populations of a species that are listed both as Endangered and Threa- ments. The Fish and Wildlife Service has tened are tallied twice. Those species are the leopard, gray wolf, grizzly bear, bald assigned law enforcement special agent eagle, piping plover, roseate tern, Nile crocodile, green sea turtle, and olive ridley John Gavitt to serve as the CITES en- sea turtle. For the purposes of the Endangered Species Act, the term "species" forcement officer for the next 2 years, and can mean a species, subspecies, or distinct vertebrate population. Several entries the government of the Netherlands has also represent entire genera or even families. assigned Mr. Ger Van Vliet to serve as the CITES plants officer. Mr. Van Vliet is the first full-time biologist working on * 'There are 260 approved recovery plans. Some recovery plans cover more than plants for CITES. The U.S. and the one species, and a few species have separate plans covering different parts of Netherlands are paying their expenses. their ranges. Recovery plans are drawn up only for listed species that occur in the United States. The annual U.S. conthbution to CITES, which comes through the Department of Number of Cooperative Agreements signed with States and Territories: 51 fish & wildlife State, has regularly been supplemented 36 plants by special contributions from the Service earmarked for specific purposes. For May 31, 1990 example, the Office of Management Authority contributes to paying the expenses of delegates from developing nations for travelling to CITES meetings and helps pay for studies on such topics as the effects of the parrot and ivory trades on wild populations.

May 1990 Vol. XV No. 5 FIRST CLASS POSTAGE AND FEES PAID SsiS^ US DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR ^NnP? PERMIT NO. G-77

Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Technical Bulletin Service, Washington, D.C. 20240

TAKE- PRIDE IN; AMERICA!

12 ENDANGERED SPECIES TECHNICAL BULLETIN Vol. XV, No. 5 (1990)