March / April 2003

PUBLISHED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BUREAU OF NATURAL RESOURCES l WILDLIFE DIVISION

©PAUL J. FUSCO All Rights Reserved

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 1 Volume 23, Number 2 Connecticut From Wildlife Published bimonthly by State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection the Director www.dep.state.ct.us Arthur J. Rocque, Jr...... Commissioner David K. Leff ...... Deputy Commissioner “Conservation is a state of harmony between man and land,” wrote Edward C. Parker ...... Chief, Bureau of Natural Resources Aldo Leopold more than 50 years ago in a wonderful economy of words. Wildlife Division However, as one flies over the eastern seaboard and views our imprint 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT 06106-5127 (860-424-3011) Dale May ...... Director on the Earth, it is plain to see that such harmony has not been attained. Peter Bogue ...... Assistant Director (Management) The ethical relationship that Leopold espoused between society and the Greg Chasko ...... Assistant Director (Assessment) land that sustains us is as elusive today as it was more than 50 years Mark Clavette ...... Recreation Management Chris Vann ...... Technical Assistance Biologist ago when he wrote that “the land-relation is still strictly economic, Laurie Fortin ...... Wildlife Technician entailing privileges, but not obligations.” For the most part, land is still Brenda Marquez ...... Secretary Shana Shafer ...... Office Assistant viewed as private property which, in many cases, is subjected to abuse in Eastern District Area Headquarters return for short-term economic gains. 209 Hebron Road, Marlborough, CT 06447 (860-295-9523) Paul Rothbart ...... District Supervising Biologist In the 50 years since Leopold, we have made some advances through the Ann Kilpatrick ...... Eastern District Biologist passage of environmental laws and efforts on behalf of the state, Rich Garini ...... DEP-DOC Crew Supervisor municipalities and land trusts to preserve open space. But the routine Franklin W.M.A. 391 Route 32, N. Franklin, CT 06254 (860-642-7239) mistreatment of land continues and the “relationship” that most of us Howard Kilpatrick ...... Deer/Turkey Program Biologist have with it is more distant than ever. I recall my grandfather telling me Mike Gregonis ...... Deer/Turkey Program Biologist Julie Victoria ...... Nonharvested Wildlife Program Biologist the Great Depression passed nearly unnoticed on the family farm. Min Huang ...... Waterfowl Program Biologist Today, how many of us grow our own food? How many of us live on the Paul Capotosto ...... Wetlands Restoration Biologist Roger Wolfe ...... Mosquito Management Coordinator same land from generation to generation? As much as we cannot afford Bob Kalinowski ...... CE/FS Coordinator (East) to become “disconnected” from the land, we continue to do so. Winnie Reid ...... Secretary Heather Overturf ...... Program Assistant During these modern times, we should stop to appreciate those whose Sessions Woods W.M.A. deeds promote Leopold’s land ethic. For example, in 1981, Maxwell P.O. Box 1550, Burlington, CT 06013-1550 (860-675-8130) Peter Good ...... Supervising Wildlife Biologist Belding gifted nearly 300 acres in Vernon to the State. Even then, this Steve Jackson ...... Supervising Wildlife Biologist land had tremendous economic potential if developed. Luckily, the land Paul Rego ...... Furbearer Program Biologist had something more; a spiritual meaning to Mr. Belding. Featuring a Jenny Dickson ...... Nonharvested Wildlife Program Biologist Peter Picone ...... Urban Wildlife Program Biologist stream with pure, cold water that supported a healthy population of Judy Wilson ...... Western District Biologist trout, the property was a quiet oasis of nature that provided a wealth of Dave Kubas ...... CE/FS Coordinator (West) Geoffrey Krukar ...... Wildlife Technician memories for the Belding family. Not only did he choose to preserve the Jim Warner ...... Field Assistant area, he also chose to share it with Connecticut’s residents. Trish Cernik ...... Program Assistant Lisa Gaski ...... Clerk Chapter two of the Belding story began a couple of years ago when Mr. Wildlife Outreach Unit / Connecticut Wildlife Belding contacted the Department about establishing a trust that would Kathy Herz ...... Editor Paul Fusco ...... Media Designer/Photographer provide stewardship for the land in perpetuity. We had the opportunity to Laura Rogers-Castro ...... Education/Outreach revisit his wishes for the property, which are relatively simple: to Wetlands Habitat & Mosquito Management Crew Hdqtrs. maintain the ecological integrity of the area, to maintain the area as a 51 Mill Road, Madison, CT 06443 Daniel Shaw ...... Mosquito Control Specialist place where visitors can enjoy and interact with nature, and to teach our Steven Rosa ...... Mosquito Control Specialist young people about our relationship with nature. Thanks to his vision and generosity, Maxwell Belding and his family have fulfilled Leopold’s The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program was land ethic on their property for the benefit of us all. (See article on initiated by sportsmen and conservationists to provide states with funding for wildlife management and research Belding WMA on page 9.) programs, habitat acquisition, wildlife management area development and hunter education programs. Each issue of Dale W. May Connecticut Wildlife contains articles reporting on Wildlife Division projects funded entirely or in part with federal aid monies.

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Cover: is an equal opportunity agency that provides services, facilities, and employment opportunities without regard to A piping plover broods its young on a Connecticut beach. Find race, color, religion, age, sex, physical and mental out how you can help protect these threatened from the disability, national origin, ancestry, marital status, and political beliefs. pressures of living close to high levels of human activity by becoming a volunteer. See page 8 for details. The Wildlife Division grants permission to reprint text, not artwork, provided the DEP Wildlife Division is credited. Artwork printed in this publication is copyrighted by the CT Photo courtesy of Paul J. Fusco DEP Wildlife Division. Any unauthorized use of this artwork is prohibited. Please contact the editor at the Sessions Woods office to obtain permission for reprinting articles.

2 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 Are Moving In More and more, Connecticut residents are contending with coyotes in their yards. Reports received by the DEP Wildlife Division range from instances of coyotes occasionally travelling near houses to seen on a daily basis and often exhibiting brazen behavior. T. LOGAN / WILD THINGS LLC complaints from homeowners in residential areas are most common in spring and summer when the animals spend more time searching for food to meet the high energy demands for raising young. However, complaints about coyotes can occur at any time of year (see sidebar). Why have coyote reports and problems escalated in recent years? Growth of the coyote population and an increased number of houses built in once rural and undeveloped areas have increased the opportunity for coyotes and humans to interact. Coyotes are notoriously adaptable and have learned to live near human development. Restrictions on hunting and trapping in Growth of the coyote population in Connecticut and an increased number of houses built developed areas may contribute to in once rural and undeveloped areas have increased the opportunity for coyotes and humans to interact. coyote habituation and limit the options to address coyote problems. Interactions between humans and coyotes are inevitable because they Public Meeting on Coyotes Held in Greenwich share the same landscape. With knowl- In February 2003, DEP Wildlife Division director Dale May and Furbearer edge about coyotes, people can take Program biologist Paul Rego attended a public meeting in Greenwich to discuss precautions to reduce these contacts and concerns about coyotes with local residents. A series of coyote attacks on pets prevent problems. Knowledge may also in the area had already resulted in the deaths of two dogs. reduce human concerns and increase Coyotes regularly prey on house cats, but it is less common for them to kill people’s tolerance of living near dogs. Attacks on dogs are usually caused by one or two dominant animals that are aggressively territorial. The coyote sees a dog as competition for territory, coyotes. but usually the fear of people overrides that instinct. However, a coyote that has Homeowners frequently report that lost its fear of humans may attack an older or smaller dog. some coyotes show no apparent fear of Several recommendations to reduce or discourage coyote problems were people, cars or dogs. Although such made to residents by DEP staff at the meeting. Fencing, scare tactics, habituated behavior is common, supervision of pets and the elimination of food attractants in yards, among other aggressive or threatening behavior topics, were discussed (see sidebar on page 13). Legal options for removing problem coyotes, including their limitations in an urban setting, were also toward humans is exceptionally rare. presented. These legal options included having a licensed trapper or a Nuisance However, coyotes will often attack pets, Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) set traps for overly bold coyotes. Cage traps with cats at greater risk than dogs. Every are notoriously ineffective for trapping coyotes, so foothold traps are often the year, the DEP receives calls from only practical option. However, state laws and regulations governing the use of foothold traps are very restrictive. If a problem coyote were trapped, it could not homeowners whose pets have been be relocated and therefore would be euthanized. Another option would be to killed by coyotes. hunt for the coyote with a gun. However, firearms cannot be fired within 500 feet Coyotes can carry rabies; however, of an occupied building and the restriction can only be lifted if landowners or instances of rabies in coyotes are municipal officials agree and act together. relatively rare in Connecticut. Anyone Coyote problems are becoming more common as the coyote population who observes a coyote that is exhibit- continues to grow and people encroach on wildlife habitat. There is no easy answer for addressing coyote problems. Residents will have to take extra efforts ing obvious signs of rabies (uncoordi- to discourage coyotes from regularly visiting their properties, to protect their nated movements, seizures, extreme pets and to learn how to live with the animals that share their landscape. Also, in lethargy or overly aggressive behavior) anticipation that coyote problems will continue to increase in suburban areas, should contact local police or the DEP is developing an advanced training program for NWCOs that emphasizes coyote life history, behavior, and lethal and non-lethal deterrence. continued on page 13

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 3 Count Up in Annual Midwinter Waterfowl Survey Written by Min Huang, Waterfowl Program Biologist Staff from the DEP and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service con- ducted the annual Midwinter

Waterfowl Survey on December 30, P. J. FUSCO (2) 2002. The survey is conducted throughout the Atlantic Flyway, and is used as an index of long- term wintering waterfowl trends. In Connecticut, the survey is con- ducted from a low-flying airplane where observers take a census of all waterfowl seen along the coast, major rivers and selected reservoirs and lakes. Waterfowl were not concen- trated in most of the survey area due to the relatively warm weather that preceded the survey. Most inland lakes and reservoirs were ice-free during the survey period. The warm weather resulted in waterfowl being widely dispersed ©PAUL J. FUSCO throughout the state, not just along All Rights Reserved the immediate coast. When inland waterbodies freeze, waterfowl Continuing a trend observed during the waterfowl breeding surveys, this year’s mallard count concentrate along the coast. was much higher than last year’s. counts of other puddle An interesting observation of 40 Connecticut Midwinter Waterfowl Survey ducks, such as widgeon black scoters was made during the Results for Major Species* and , were also midwinter survey. Scoters have not made during the survey. been detected on the survey route in Species 2003 2002 Five-year Scaup, which have 10 years. Another interesting observa- Average experienced a significant tion was of a large group of ruddy Atlantic Brant 100 500 200 decline over the past 30 ducks. These small ducks are usually Black Duck 1,000 900 3,000 years, had a significantly found further south by midwinter, but Bufflehead 1,100 300 300 higher count than last year recent warmer winters have led to their 2,600 2,100 2,900 but still below the five- continued presence in Connecticut Canvasback 100 0 700 year average. Historically, during the survey Mallard 1,000 500 700 scaup wintering in Con- period. Merganser 900 1,300 1,200 necticut number in the tens Mute Swan 1,200 700 900 of thousands. Declines in Long-tailed Duck 100 0 100 Scaup 2,400 300 2,800 scaup numbers throughout continue to * rounded to nearest hundred be of concern to state and federal biologists. Re- search currently underway Continuing a trend observed will hopefully provide some during the waterfowl breeding sur- Red-breasted much needed answers. merganser veys, this year’s mallard count was Continuing a recent much higher than last year’s and trend, few canvasbacks were approximately 50 percent above the observed. The count of just five-year average. The black duck under 100 canvasback was 10 count was slightly higher than last percent of the long-term average. The year but well below the five-year declining North American canvasback average. Due to open water inland, population also is a concern of black ducks were distributed through- biologists. The hunting season on out the state during the survey period, canvasback was closed this past year. ©PAUL J. FUSCO not just along the coast. Incidental All Rights Reserved

4 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 Harvest Results for the 2002 Seasons Written by Michael Gregonis, Deer/Turkey Program Biologist Connecticut’s wild turkey popula- gobbling activity, making it more 1 2 4 tion continues to grow and expand, difficult to harvest a . 3 5 offering some of the best spring and At least one turkey was harvested fall turkey hunting in North America. in 149 of 169 Connecticut towns, with 6 The challenge of harvesting a turkey Lebanon reporting the highest harvest 9 10 has lured residents and non-residents (70), followed by Woodstock (52) and 7 8 in record numbers to take advantage Colchester (45). State land hunters 12 of the opportunities that exist in our reported the highest harvest in Cock- 11 state. Connecticut turkeys were aponset State Forest (24) and Turkey Management harvested by hunters from Florida, (19). On a Montana, , New and regional basis, the highest harvest was Zones all the New England states, as well as reported in turkey management zones 3.7% success rate. Private land hunters the Canadian Provinces of Prince 5 (307), 9 (264) and 1(186). Highest (3,295) harvested 176 birds, whereas Edward Island and Quebec. harvest levels were consistent with state land hunters (686) harvested 12 areas of Connecticut that contain the birds. Hunters reported harvesting at Spring Turkey Season best quality turkey habitat. Private least one bird from 69 of 169 Con- During the 2002 spring season, land hunters accounted for 90% of the necticut towns. Warren (8) and hunters reported harvesting 1,894 total harvest (1,696) and 73% of the Woodstock (8) recorded the highest turkeys, a decrease from the record permits issued (6,013). Total reported harvest. The highest state land harvest harvest of 2,067 in 2001. A total of spring harvest consisted of 593 jakes, was reported in Cockaponset State 7,632 turkey hunting permits were 1,287 toms and 14 bearded hens. Forest (4) and turkey management issued, with 1,536 hunters harvesting zones 5 (33) and 4 (32) reported the at least one bird. Statewide hunter Fall Firearms Turkey Season highest overall zonal harvest. Of 188 success rate was 20%. The harvest The fall firearms season had a birds taken, 108 were males and 80 may have been lower in 2002 due to reported harvest of 188 birds, repre- were females; 65% were adults. poor weather conditions on Saturdays, senting a 35% decrease from the 287 the most popular hunting day. Poor birds taken in 2001. Overall, 3,981 Fall Archery Season weather conditions reduce hunter firearms permits were issued and 146 During the fall archery season, participation and may reduce turkey hunters took at least one turkey, for a 2,706 permits were issued and 64 birds were harvested (a 12% decrease from the 73 birds harvested in 2001). P. J. FUSCO At least one bird was taken by 59 archers, and the statewide success rate was 2.2%. Turkeys were taken from 47 towns, with Cheshire (4), Lebanon (4) and Voluntown (3) report- ing the highest harvest. Turkey zones 7, 9 and 11 recorded the highest harvest, with nine birds taken from each of these zones. Of 64 birds taken by archers, there were 37 males and 27 females; 58 percent were adults. With cooperation between hunters, conserva- tion groups and landowners, as well as wise manage- ment, wild turkeys will be ©PAUL J. FUSCO heard and seen throughout All Rights Reserved Connecticut for many years Connecticut’s wild turkey population offers some of the best spring and fall turkey hunting in North to come. America.

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 5 Studying the American in CT Written by Min Huang, Waterfowl Program Biologist American woodcock are highly hundreds of thousands of acres of habitat in the state using a Geographi- prized by bird enthusiasts and upland early successional habitat to develop- cal Information System (GIS). Assess- hunters throughout the eastern ment, forest maturation and changing ment of current and potential wood- United States. Woodcock present a land use. In just the past 13 years, over cock habitat will allow for the formu- challenging quarry for hunters and their 100,000 acres of farmland and lation of a long-term habitat plan. spring breeding display is truly a wonder 300,000 acres of forested land have State-owned lands likely represent the of nature. Woodcock are dependent been lost to development in the state. best long-term habitat management upon early successional habitats, This long-term loss in habitat has opportunities for woodcock enhance- frequenting young-aged stands of timber likely resulted in declines in wood- ment. As human populations increase and overgrown fields. Over the past 30 cock numbers that are not evident and building space becomes more years woodcock populations throughout through the limited surveys that are limited in the state, more pressure will their range have been declining. This conducted. be exerted upon private lands for long-term decline has led to much development, rather than for conserva- concern among resource managers (see Four-year Study Initiated tion. Large tracts of protected private article on pages 14-15). There are numerous questions that land in the state, however, may need to be answered concerning wood- provide some excellent opportunities for Reasons for Decline cock in Connecticut. In order to answer habitat management. Widespread habitat changes on both some of these questions and develop a Current population status will be their breeding and wintering grounds are long-term management strategy for assessed through singing ground the likely cause for the widespread woodcock, the DEP Wildlife Division is surveys. There are plans to establish decline. However, what effect do other collaborating with the USFWS-Stewart approximately 30 new routes throughout factors, such as hunting, contaminants B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge the state. Surveys will be stratified by and predation, have on woodcock and the Wildlife Conservation Research high, medium and low quality habitats. populations? Recent research in Maine Center at the University of Connecticut, Comprehensive singing-ground surveys and current research in the Great Lakes on a four-year woodcock study. This of current woodcock habitat in the state area have indicated that hunting study will assess current woodcock will provide managers with an index of mortality plays a negligible role in the population status, survival rates, habitat breeding populations and facilitate an status of woodcock populations. Prior use and current habitat condition in analysis of existing habitat quality. If work in the 1960s indicated that Connecticut. Ultimately, it is hoped that habitat is the limiting factor for wood- earthworms, the woodcock’s primary a long-term management plan for cock in Connecticut, managers expect to food source, were susceptible to accumu- woodcock in the state will be developed. find woodcock in quality habitats and lation of certain contaminants, namely There are plans to assess both a decline in numbers as habitat quality PCBs. Current research in Canada and current and potential woodcock declines. Wisconsin indicates that lead contami- nation may play a role in woodcock survival and reproduction rates. Other research points to predation as playing a P. J. FUSCO large role in the woodcock decline. More work throughout the woodcock’s range, however, needs to be conducted to provide definitive answers to the current downward trend. Surveying the Population Woodcock population status has traditionally been assessed through the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) singing ground surveys. These surveys, conducted throughout the range of woodcock in the United States, provide an index of singing males along survey routes. Each year, in Connecticut, between three to six survey routes are run. The limited sample size, however, ©PAUL J. FUSCO does not provide a reliable index of All Rights Reserved woodcock status within the state. Over Over the past 30 years woodcock populations throughout their range have been declining. the past 50 years, Connecticut has lost This long-term decline has led to much concern among resource managers.

6 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 There also are plans to capture and mammalian predators, such as rac- Help Is Needed radio-tag locally breeding woodcock. coons, skunks and both domestic and This study is slated to begin in the Monitoring radio-tagged birds will feral cats. What effect does mamma- spring of 2003. The funding needed to provide information on survival rates lian predation have on breeding begin the survival analysis, population and cause-specific mortality, and allow woodcock? assessment and part of the contaminant for an assessment of woodcock habitat As part of this study, woodcock will analysis is currently available. Efforts use in the state. Woodcock rely upon be analyzed for contaminants, specifi- are underway to secure monies for the early successional habitats; however, cally lead, PCBs and organochlorines. other aspects of the study. Another what specific habitat types do woodcock Previous work has demonstrated immediate need is for highly motivated favor in Connecticut? A better under- woodcock susceptibility to contaminant volunteers to assist with some of the standing of these factors will help guide loading. Additionally, lead contamina- population surveys. In order to maintain future habitat management. Information tion is a potential factor in the popula- consistency of results, we hope to find from other parts of woodcock range tion decline. Contaminants analysis will people willing to conduct one or two indicates that predation may be the provide information on potential survey routes for three years. If you biggest source of mortality for wood- limiting factors to fitness and reproduc- might be interested, please contact the cock. Anecdotal evidence from per- tion of locally breeding woodcock. In Wildlife Division’s Waterfowl Pro- egrine falcon eyries in Connecticut conjunction with the contaminants gram at 860-642-7239. indicates that woodcock constitute a analysis, food habits, overall condition large percentage of prey items. and parasitic loads of harvested Connecticut has a large population of woodcock will be analyzed as well. The Wildlife Observer Do you have an interesting wildlife Visitor Through the Chimney observation to report to Margaret Adamec, a wildlife closing time on a Saturday to tell me there another such the Wildlife Division? rehabilitator from Granby, sent in the was a really big bird in his living room. experience. Please send it (and any following “Interesting Wildlife He’d just gotten home to find it flying Hopefully, photos) to: Observation” and photograph: around and smashing into the picture the next one Wildlife Observations “ As a wildlife rehabilitator in window, after having apparently fallen in I see will be DEP - Wildlife Division Connecticut, I get some pretty interesting through the chimney. in its natural P.O. Box 1550 calls, but the most unusual this year was I hurried over there, and he pointed to watery Burlington, CT 06013 from a friend who just happened to know I the couch the bird had finally fallen behind. habitat.” Email: work with animals a lot. My friend Marty The first thing I saw was a long, slender [email protected] came dashing into my post office just at beak, kind of pointed at the tip, and a snaky Editor’s gray neck. Great blue heron? Impossible. Note: Thanks (submitted photos will It was much too small. I was stumped. to Margaret be returned at your Marty tossed me a towel, which I dropped for sending request) over the stressed bird and used to wrap it in her up and bring it out from behind the couch. “Interesting By this time, Marty was snapping Wildlife pictures while I unveiled a duck-like Observation.” As interesting as it is, finding bird, with a pointed bill, gray coloring a common merganser in a chimney is not and a chestnut crest on the back of its completely surprising. Common mergansers head and upper neck. We walked it nest in tree cavities and even outside, examined it for injuries, and nest boxes. The chimney may have when we found only a couple of minor appeared to be a great cavity. nicks (from smashing into furniture, I Unfortunately, this merganser found out suspect), released it. Judging from the otherwise. The common merganser, which way it flew clear across a half-mile of prefers large freshwater lakes and reservoirs open field and over the treetops, it was and wooded rivers, is one of the largest fine. ducks found in Connecticut. The Only later, upon reaching home and northwestern part of the state supports a dragging out my field guide, did I small nesting population of common determine it to be a common merganser. mergansers; however, this species becomes I’d never seen one of these beautiful more common during winter when large diving ducks before, and consider it a numbers move into Connecticut from their rare treat to have had the chance to breeding grounds farther north. help one out of tight spot. Marty is capping his chimney, so I doubt I’ll have

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 7 Volunteer at Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge By Paul Donoski, Sara Williams, and Jennifer Brown, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Milford Point Unit the nest for protection against foot people on the importance of island If you would like to spend your traffic and predators. ecology and undisturbed habitats? If summer bird watching on a warm coastal The monitoring program in 2002 so, Outer Island is the place for you. beach or feel rewarded knowing that you was composed of 25 volunteers who Most outdoor enthusiasts recognize helped protect a federally threatened helped identify nests, monitor incuba- Outer Island as one of the Branford bird species, then you should volunteer tion and watch chicks until fledging. Thimble Islands. Outer Island was at Milford Point. Milford Point and Long Beach com- donated to USFWS in 1995 by the late Every summer, Connecticut citizens bined produced 24 chicks that sur- Mrs. Elizabeth Hird in honor of her play a vital role in the protection of the vived at least until they were able to deceased husband, Basil Rauch. She state and federally threatened piping fly. The volunteer program is integral desired that Outer Island remain a plover and the state threatened least tern. in ensuring successful nesting at these wildlife refuge and a place for public The Connecticut Audubon Society, the sites. While the current program is appreciation of the island’s beauty, as DEP, The Nature Conservancy and the focused on Milford and Stratford well as be used for marine education. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) beaches, volunteer opportunities exist Since 1995, the island has been work together to enlist volunteers to on all sandy beaches in Connecticut. closed to public use (except for monitor bird and predator activity, A Plover Monitoring Volunteer structured environmental education identify nests and newly hatched chicks, Training Session for the 2003 season classes and during open houses). Last and educate beach visitors. These will be held at the Connecticut year’s formation of the Friends of volunteers patrol the beaches of Milford Audubon Center at Milford Point on Outer Island allowed the refuge to open and Stratford each day and report their April 5, 2003. For more information, for visitation on weekends during the findings to biologists. Plovers and terns contact the Refuge at (860) 399-2513. summer. The Friends of Outer Island is a are protected by closure of the most Volunteers will be trained to recognize group of volunteers that works with the productive beaches above the high tide piping plovers and least terns. They McKinney National Wildlife Refuge to line using string fencing and signs. The also will learn about these species’ life open the island for visitation, educate beach closures allow plovers to select history and breeding behaviors, as visitors and maintain the island. their territories, incubate eggs and raise well as about monitoring procedures. This past season, visitors traveled to their young undisturbed, thereby the island in small boats, kayaks and on increasing breeding success. Once a nest Outer Island Unit the ferry from Stony Creek. During a is located and at least four eggs have Would you like to spend your public visitation day it is necessary to been laid, authorized DEP or Refuge summer relaxing on a gorgeous pink have two or more Friends volunteers on staff erect wire mesh exclosures around granite island? How about educating the island. One person has to remain at the landing to monitor the number of visitors, while the others may guide visitors to the island’s highlights and

P. J. FUSCO scenic vistas. If time permits, volunteers pick up flotsam that washes up on the island shores. Some days visitor traffic may be light and a kickback Robinson Crusoe existence abounds. Now that the Friends group has survived the first year, it needs more members to accomplish the projects for this year and beyond. More volunteers are needed to continue island access and help with necessary improvements. If you are interested in volunteering, there will be a new member information and sign-up meeting for Friends of Outer Island on March 12, 2003, in Branford at the Canoe Brook Senior Center. The meeting is open to all individuals who ©PAUL J. FUSCO have an interest in volunteering on or All Rights Reserved for Outer Island. Contact Paul Donoski ([email protected]) or Lynn Dorsey Volunteers are needed to help patrol beaches were the state and federally threatened ([email protected]) for more piping plover lays its eggs. information.

8 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 N Explore a Wildlife Management Area: Belding

Written by Paul Rothbart, Supervising Wildlife Biologist

The DEP’s Belding Wildlife Over the Management Area (WMA) is a 282- past decade, acre state-owned parcel, located in the various man- town of Vernon. The area has a diverse agement array of habitats, including mixed activities have hardwood and conifer forestlands, taken place on open fields, agricultural land and the area. Forty- riparian stream corridors. Wildlife one acres of using such habitat types include agricultural white-tailed deer, woodcock, ruffed lands are grouse, eastern bluebird, cottontail managed , mink, river otter, hawks, owls, through a woodpeckers and a wide variety of statewide lease amphibians, reptiles and arthropods. program. The property was gifted to the State Through this of Connecticut by Maxwell M. Belding process, the in 1981 under a multi-year process. DEP assures The Department of Environmental that all best Protection assumed 100 percent farming ownership in 1984. The Belding WMA practices are serves as a means to promote conser- followed, vation of wildlife habitat and foster an including soil understanding and appreciation of the nutrient value and role of such lands to society. management, Directions: Belding WMA can be found in Vernon Specific management goals for the riparian buffer on Bolton Road. From Interstate 84 take exit 66 to area are: establishment Bolton Road. and maintain- ● Promote natural resource educa- ing areas of food and cover for dedicated funds for the management tion. Conservation education is critical wildlife. A forest inventory and of Belding WMA to soon be made to the future of wildlife and its habitat. subsequent harvest were conducted as available. This funding will allow the Outreach efforts will include the part of an ongoing effort to maintain a DEP to conduct fisheries and wildlife development of a self-guided trail healthy and diverse forest ecosystem. inventories, develop educational system, individual outdoor tours and Belding WMA has been designated as outreach programs, improve trail classes on vernal pools, dendrology a “Wild Trout Management Area” and, systems, improve stream and pond (trees), wildlife ecology and forest as such, has provided increased water quality, construct a fish passage management. The agricultural lands on opportunities for Connecticut anglers way on the Tankerhoosen River and the property will serve to define the to enjoy a quality wild trout fishing provide for staffing that will develop a role of farming in the ever-expanding experience. In cooperation with the management plan and provide stew- urban character of Connecticut and the Connecticut Forest and Park Associa- ardship of the property. need to balance agricultural practices tion, a section of hiking trail was This area has long served as a with the needs of wildlife. The DEP developed on the Belding property to place for people and wildlife to will develop cooperative programs connect a gap within the Shenipsit coexist within a rapidly changing with the local school system and the Trail and the town-owned Valley Falls landscape. The DEP extends its University of Connecticut, and use Park. Other site enhancements have heartfelt appreciation to the Belding Belding WMA as an outdoor educa- included marking six miles of bound- family for sharing their conservation tion site. aries, mowing fields, developing a land ethic with the citizens of Con- ● Maintain and enhance diverse public access site and installing gates necticut. As ongoing activities are habitats to improve the biological to control unauthorized access. developed on the area and more values of the area. Although some accomplishments individuals have a chance to visit, it is ● Enhance public enjoyment of the have been achieved over the past hoped that they too will share in this property consistent with the natural decade, many activities that are appreciation. resource values and environmental required to meet overall site goals education goals. Emphasis will be on have not been completed due to Read “From the Director” on page 2 to learn low impact uses, such as birdwatching, funding constraints. Through the more about Maxwell Belding, who donated hiking, fishing and photography. continued generosity of Mr. Belding his land to the State. and his family, the DEP is anticipating

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 9 Connecticut’s Two Freshwater Herons Written by Paul Fusco, Wildlife Outreach Unit Of the nine species of herons and Do these Herons Migrate? Great Blue Heron egrets that occur in Connecticut, only Both the great blue and green heron The first time a person gets a good two species are regularly found at inland are migratory in our region. Most of the look at a great blue heron, it is a thrilling locations. These two are also our most migrants typically move through experience. Long legs, long neck and widespread herons, the great blue heron Connecticut from April through May in long, pointed bill give these birds an and the green heron. Both of these spring, and September through October elegant appearance. As majestic as they species are associated more with interior in fall on their way to and from their can be at first glance, when they begin to freshwater wetlands than the other breeding and wintering grounds. take flight, their low-pitched croak, members of their family. They are Migrating individuals may be found at slow-flapping wings and gangly takeoff frequently hard to see because they coastal, as well as inland wetland give them a prehistoric look. This blend into their surroundings. Look for locations. Their migrational movements labored takeoff will gradually settle into them as they forage in and frequently occur at night. Patient a smooth powerful flight, with long, shallow ponds, and along the banks of observers on a fall night with a north- broad wings propelling them high into rivers and streams. west wind may be rewarded with the the air. With a length of approximately Herons are opportunistic hunters that sight of a great blue heron as it flies high 45 inches and a wingspan of over six will consume a variety of food. While up in front of a full moon. feet, the great blue heron represents fish is their primary food source, they Most great blues will move south of the largest of our heron species. will also eat small mammals, such as Connecticut for the winter, but a few Uncommon breeders in Connecticut, shrews and mice; frogs; lizards; sala- hardy individuals may be found at great blues normally nest in rookeries manders; invertebrates, such as crayfish, places with open water, such as coastal that can number from a few pairs to well dragonflies, grasshoppers and other large salt marshes or near dams with flowing over 100. Their highly visible, large insects; and occasionally snakes and water. In winter, the less hardy green stick nests are frequently built high up smaller birds. They do most of their heron is an extremely rare occurrence in in standing dead trees within a secluded hunting by either the stand-and-wait Connecticut, with most of its population beaver or wooded wetland. Great style or by stalking. wintering south of Virginia. blue herons are wary birds and nest colonies are highly sensitive to human encroachment and

P. J. FUSCO disturbance. Green Heron At 18 inches in length, about the size of a crow, the green heron is our smallest heron. This bird has short legs and a more compact body than most of the other herons. At first glance it appears to have a short neck, but the green heron is able to stretch its neck out to an amazing length. When excited, a green heron may be seen raising the feathers of its bushy crest. Although widely distributed in Connecti- cut, the green heron is ©PAUL J. FUSCO not a common breeder. All Rights Reserved The population is thought to have de- The smallest heron found in Connecticut is the green heron. Its small, compact size can be deceiving clined over the last to potential prey, as the bird is able to stretch out its neck to an amazing length when hunting. century due to a

10 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 P. J. FUSCO (2)

©PAUL J. FUSCO All Rights Reserved

Tall and statuesque, the great blue is the largest member of the heron family to be found in Connecticut. Great blue herons typically feed on small fish and amphibians. significant loss of shallow water for them to wetland habitat. nest and raise The nest of the green heron is their young. typically well hidden in thick vegeta- Great blue tion near a body of water. Shrubs, small herons, in trees and vine tangles can all provide particular, are adequate cover for the loosely-built highly stick nests. Connecticut’s green herons sensitive to are typically solitary nesters as opposed development to most of the other herons that routinely pressures that nest in colonies called rookeries. encroach Green herons are known to some- upon their times exhibit a remarkable foraging rookeries. behavior. They will use a fish baiting Entire technique: picking up a small twig or rookeries may ©PAUL J. FUSCO flower petal, and dropping it into the be abandoned All Rights Reserved water to attract fish. This fish baiting if human behavior is noteworthy because it makes disturbance is Great blue herons nest in rookeries, usually within secluded wooded the green heron one of the few species of too signifi- wetlands, such as beaver marshes. Nesting birds are highly sensitive to birds that is known to use tools. cant. disturbance. As with all wetland-dependant many of Connecticut’s freshwater Conservation birds, conservation and preservation wetlands, the DEP Wildlife Division is Herons require quality habitats in of wetland habitats are critical to working to ensure a future for the which to feed, as well as habitats that maintaining healthy populations. By freshwater herons of our state. provide low-disturbance opportunities continuing to monitor and manage

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 11 : Harvest from 2002 and Changes for 2003 Written by Howard Kilpatrick, Deer/Turkey Program Biologist A preliminary evaluation of the season. For example, the deer harvest from an average of about 13,800 down 2002 deer hunting season indicates on the first Saturday of the 2002 to about 12,600 (8% decrease). This that harvest totals (about 11,500) will shotgun season (639) was 39 percent decrease mostly was attributed to the be lower than last year’s by about lower than on the first Saturday of the new requirements mandating that all three percent. Much of this decrease is 2001 shotgun season (1,043). Satur- bowhunters complete the state- due to very wet or windy conditions, days are typically high harvest days certified bowhunter education and which prevented some hunters from because many hunters are afield on safety course before purchasing an going into the field on many Saturdays Saturdays. archery permit in 2002. during the archery deer hunting The abundant acorn crop in fall season and on the first Friday and 2002 also partially contributed to Looking Ahead to 2003 Season Saturday of the firearms deer hunting reduced hunter success rates. Success Several new changes will be in rates in the past have effect for the 2003 deer hunting been influenced by the season. The cost of archery permits in amount of acorns 2003 will increase by $8 for residents P. J. FUSCO available for deer to and $56 for non-residents. However, consume during the fall. the number of deer tags on archery During years of acorn deer permits will increase from four to abundance, deer do not six and the season has been extended need to travel far to find to include the month of January. Two acorns. Reduced of the six tags will be valid only movements by deer during the extended January season. make them less visible The extended archery deer season will and less vulnerable to be open on private land only in deer hunting. Although an management zones 11 and 12. Hunters abundant acorn crop should consult the current 2003 reduces hunter success Connecticut Hunting and Trapping rates, acorns are a Guide because some zones were valuable source of redelineated. Also, hunters are reminded energy for deer and that a valid consent form for the current should contribute to year will be required to participate in the deer surviving the January archery season. winter period in good In the past, replacement antlerless physical condition. tags were available to hunters who Snow cover late during harvested an antlerless deer on private the shotgun and lands in deer management zones 11 and muzzleloader seasons 12 during the shotgun/rifle and archery boosted harvest levels deer seasons. In 2003, replacement tags within a few percentage also will be available to muzzleloader points of 2001’s harvest hunters who harvest antlerless deer in of 11,950. zones 11 and 12. Permit issuance was A Junior Deer Hunting Training Day similar for most permit has been established on the Saturday types. The biggest before the regular three-week shotgun decrease in permit deer hunting season. In 2003, the Junior issuance was for the Deer Hunting Training Day is scheduled archery deer season. for November 15. The Junior Hunting Starting in 2003, the archery deer season was extended through the month of January on private land in deer Total number of archery Day was initiated to provide junior management zones 11 and 12. deer permits dropped hunters with a special opportunity to learn safe and effective hunting practices from experienced adult mentors. Plan Ahead for the 2003 Hunting Season! Sign up for a To learn more about the 2003 deer hunting season, hunters should consult Conservation Education/Firearms Safety class now! Classes the 2003 Connecticut Hunting and for firearms, bowhunting and trapping are offered. Call 860- Trapping Guide, available at town clerks’ and DEP offices, or on the DEP 642-7239 (eastern CT), 860-675-8130 (western CT), or find website at www.dep.state.ct.us. a class schedule on the DEP website: www.dep.state.ct.us.

12 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 Coyotes, runs from January 1 to continued from page 3 March 15 and then again Tips for Dealing with Coyotes from November 2 to control authorities. If local authorities December 31. All coyote Homeowners can take the following steps to cannot be reached or are unable to pelts must be properly discourage coyote activity near their homes: respond, the DEP can be contacted at tagged before they are l Eliminate food attractants, such as outdoor pet (860) 424-3333. sold, exchanged, given food, table scraps on compost piles, garbage, fruit There are many reasons why the DEP away, disposed of or fallen from trees and bird seed (which attracts does not allow problem coyotes to be retained for personal use. rodents, a favored prey item for coyotes). relocated. Coyotes are difficult to For more details on l Attempt to harass or frighten away coyotes with capture. Even if a coyote could be hunting and trapping loud noises. In the case of bold individuals, the use captured and relocated, it probably of strong, unnatural odors (e.g., deodorant soap) seasons, consult the 2003 may discourage animals from restricted areas or would not stay in the area in which it Connecticut Hunting and trails or from establishing dens in yards or near was released. Furthermore, most suitable Trapping Guide, avail- houses. habitat already has established coyote able at DEP offices, town l Trim low branches of conifer trees and remove low territories. Relocated animals are also clerk offices and on the brush cover in or near yards that may serve as subject to high mortality rates. Problem DEP’s website: cover. animals that are relocated often repeat www.dep.state.ct.us. A l Install yard lights or lights with motion detectors. the unwanted behavior in new locations fact sheet on coyotes can Pets can be protected by: and may continue to cause problems. also be obtained by l There are established hunting and visiting the website or Limiting their time outdoors, especially at night. trapping seasons for coyotes in Con- contacting the Wildlife l Supervising pets while outdoors. necticut. The 2003 hunting season runs Division’s Sessions l Enclosing pet areas with fencing or a kennel. from January 1 to May 6, then from May Woods office (860-675- 28 to October 3, and from October 18 to 8130). December 31. The 2003 trapping season

These Boxes Are for Bluebirds...and Tree Swallows and... Connecticut’s Bluebird Restoration groups were also quite involved. ● Plant for bluebirds in your yard. and Wood Distribution Project was Participation by individuals reporting You can make your yard more attrac- initiated by the DEP Wildlife Division on the boxes in their yards continues tive for bluebirds and many other in 1980. Through this project, the to be the key element in monitoring wildlife species by adding food and Division has provided educational the success of Connecticut’s nesting cover plants. The Wildlife Division materials on bluebirds, as well as bluebirds. has published a booklet that can help materials, plans and assistance to you, Enhancing Your Backyard for community service organizations, You Can Help Bluebirds! Wildlife. The booklet is available for school groups and others for the There are many ways that you can $3.00. Send checks (payable to the construction and installation of bluebird help bluebirds and maybe even Urban Wildlife Program) to DEP nest boxes. Since the bluebird project encourage them to nest nearby. Wildlife Division, P.O. Box 1550, started, nearly 2,000 groups have helped Burlington, CT 06013. ● Build nest boxes and place them in build over 42,000 nest boxes for appropriate habitat. The Wildlife ● Clean out and maintain existing bluebirds and other cavity-nesting Division has published a fact sheet on nest boxes. Bluebird nest boxes songbirds. bluebirds that contains nest box plans, should be cleaned out and repaired, if During the 2002 nesting season, tree life history facts, tips and other helpful necessary, every winter before swallows continued to be the most information. Call 860-675-8130 to bluebirds return in the spring. common nest box user statewide. request the fact sheet or find it on the ● Let us know about your bluebird Bluebirds were a close second with over DEP website at www.dep.state.ct.us. If 1,000 fledglings reported. Other box boxes. If you have bluebird boxes that you belong to a service or conserva- you monitor, we’d like to hear from users this year included house wrens, tion group (scouts, 4-H, school, etc.), you! Please fill out a Connecticut house sparrows, chickadees, tufted you can sign up to receive free, rough titmice and a roosting downy wood- Bluebird Nest Box Survey card and let lumber for building bluebird nest us know which birds used your boxes. pecker. Overall numbers of birds appear boxes. The lottery selection process To obtain a postage-paid survey card, to be up from 2001 when numbers hit a for obtaining wood is usually an- five-year low. please call 860-675-8130 or write to: nounced in November and the wood Sessions Woods WMA, Attn: Bluebird The most active bluebird project must be picked up in January. For Restoration Project, P.O. Box 1550, group participants in 2002 were scout information on this project, call the Burlington, CT 06013. troops. Schools and community above phone number.

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 13 A “Consensus Statement” on American Woodcock Many wildlife and plant conserva- tionists are concerned for the future of native plant and animal populations which depend upon grasslands, J. BARCLAY (2) shrublands and other forms of pre- woodland habitats. These so-called “early successional” species include chestnut-sided warblers, whip-poor- wills, killdeer, , Ameri- can woodcock, New England cotton- tails and many others. Their popula- tions are linked to the extent, distribu- tion and quality of early successional habitats. Unfortunately, as farming declines as a widespread land use in Connecticut and farmlands typically revert to forest or are converted to housing or other urban uses, early successional habitats continue to disappear. A pro-active statewide initiative to address concerns for early succes- sional species and their habitats is summarized in a consensus statement One of the key (following). The statement is the result recommendations of input by participants at a workshop was for the develop- entitled “Woodcock: an early succes- ment of a group sion workshop,” held in Killingworth, consensus state- Connecticut, on 28 July 2001. The ment, which summa- meeting was sponsored by the rized the workshop Pharmedica Corporation, the findings and Hammonasset Fishing Association and recommendations. the Wildlife Management Institute, and The consensus moderated by University of Connecticut statement is to be Extension Wildlife Specialist and distributed to professor John Barclay. More than 40 sportsmen, conser- people representing 29 agencies, vationists, landown- organizations, municipalities, landown- ers and resource ers, elected officials and educational managers through- institutions heard excellent presenta- out the state. Many tions by Robert Askins (Connecticut drafts later this Connecticut’s population of woodcock (above) is linked to the College), Dan McAuley (U.S. Geological consensus statement quality and distribution of early successional habitats (top). Survey, Orono, ME), Scot Williamson was approved by (Wildlife Management Institute) and more than a two-thirds majority of that the spirit of this document be John Lanier (New Hampshire Fish & those who attended the workshop and widely embraced, not at the expense Game Department). The talks were received final unanimous approval by of other wildlife, forestry or land followed by three working group the workshop steering committee in conservation programs, but in recogni- sessions. The working groups included October 2002. We present the results tion of the need to maintain a healthy “habitats and land management” (DEP of this workshop consensus statement diversity of native flora and fauna in Wildlife Division Habitat Specialist Paul to you, the readers of Connecticut productive natural ecosystems Rothbart, chair), “education and Wildlife, for your consideration. throughout Connecticut. research” (UConn Extension Forester We recognize that some of these Tom Worthly, chair), and “funding activities already occur or are being John S. Barclay, Chairman needs and strategies” (Middlesex implemented. However, additional Ad hoc Woodcock and Early Successional landowner and Coverts Project partici- activities, support and participation Wildlife Committee Wildlife Conservation Research Center, pant James Matchulat, chair). are needed. Our recommendation is Rm. 230 WBY, University of Connecticut Recommendations from each that these or similar practices be Storrs 06269, 860-486-5896 working group were compiled for use adopted on undeveloped lands email: [email protected] by the workshop steering committee. wherever appropriate. It is our intent

14 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 CONSENSUS STATEMENT from Woodcock: an Early Succession Workshop Killingworth, CT 28 July 2001

Whereas ...... proven management practices plus . . . early successional habitats 1 are vital innovative, scientifically based strategies components of open space biodiversity, directed at American woodcock will benefit organic productivity, human quality of life, other early successional plant and animal societal tradition and well being; and are species; essential for the health, diversity, and . . . the combined efforts of sportsmen, 7. Organizing a abundance of wildlife populations; farmers, other landowners, agencies, resource network of early succes- . . . early successional habitats and managers, elected representatives, and other sional habitat management associated wildlife species have been declining conservationists are needed to focus attention demonstration sites on public throughout the eastern United States, and undertake a sustained cooperative effort to and private lands, with funding to particularly Connecticut, since the nineteen- restore Woodcock and associated species help develop, maintain, and evaluate sixties2; through conservation4 of early successional results; . . . declining early succession species habitats . . . 8. Encouraging USFWS Refuges, CT include American Woodcock, Ruffed Grouse, Now, therefore, be it resolved that . . . DEP Wildlife and Forestry Divisions, , Upland Sandpiper, . . . a new cooperative effort in conserva- municipalities, land trusts and other land Killdeer, American Kestrel, Whip-poor-will, tion to help focus, develop, educate, research, managers to feature and publicize conserva- Yellow Breasted Chat, Chestnut-sided support and promote a statewide strategy for tion of American woodcock, ruffed grouse and Warbler, Blue-winged Warbler, Grasshopper halting and reversing the decline in American other early successional species on their Sparrow, New England Cottontail, and other Woodcock and associated early successional lands; species linked to loss and deterioration of early species be initiated through: 9. Developing early successional successional habitats; 1. Creating an entity to acquire, manage, conservation education packets for use in . . . concern over the population status and and convey financial aid and other resources in primary and secondary school programs, trends of American Woodcock in North support of the restoration and conservation of including 4-H, Vocational Agriculture and America precipitated development of the 1990 American Woodcock and other associated Natural Resources, Envirothon, Project WILD American Woodcock Management Plan early successional species and habitats; and others; consider adopting an American (AWMP), and subsequent regional plans by 2. Establishing wildlife habitat-improve- Woodcock logo as representative of early the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; ment technical assistance and financial successional conservation efforts; . . . the Northeastern Association of Fish incentive programs to assist private landown- 10. Sanctioning development of informa- and Wildlife Agency Directors3, the Wildlife ers in management efforts to improve early tion and education materials, e.g., newsletter, Management Institute, the Ruffed Grouse successional habitat; to facilitate knowledge, understanding and Society, and others have determined that 3. Generating public awareness of the networking by media, resource professionals, restoration of American Woodcock popula- importance of farmland and other working sportsmen, conservationists and the public. tions is a wildlife conservation priority; lands in the maintenance of American . . . whereby we solemnly declare: . . . the International Association of Fish & Woodcock and other wildlife using early . . . our determination to encourage, Wildlife Agencies appointed a Woodcock successional edges and habitats within farm promote and support these and similar Task Force in 2001 to address the decline in and forest ecosystems; activities on behalf of American Woodcock, American Woodcock populations with a goal 4. Fostering public support for conserva- Ruffed Grouse and other early succession to restore the species to 1980 levels; tion of American Woodcock, Ruffed Grouse, species to the best of our abilities as stewards . . . the 41 assembled sportsmen, landown- and other early successional wildlife through of wildlife resources for the benefit of this and ers, conservationists, biologists, scientists, distribution of this statement and other future generations. elected representatives and other knowledge- materials to media, education programs (e.g., Partners for Fish & Wildlife, Wildlife Habitat able participants in “Woodcock: an early 1 Typically wetlands, croplands, grasslands, succession workshop” on 28 July 2001 in Incentives, Coverts Project, Master Wildlife pasture, old fields, orchards, shrublands, young Killingworth, Connecticut, representing 29 Conservationist Program, Land Trust Service forests and forest openings. Bureau, Tree Farm Program, others), agencies, organizations, agencies, institutions and other 2 Fish & Wildlife Service. 1990. American viewpoints, concurred that a grassroots non-government organizations such as Farm Woodcock management plan. U. S. Dept. of initiative to conserve American Woodcock and Bureau, sportsmen’s groups, land trusts, the Interior. Wash., D. C. vocational high schools, colleges and others; associated early successional species is 3 Issued in 1999 by vote and written essential if conservation efforts are to be 5. Integrating appropriate habitat statement of the Association of Northeastern enacted before such species are lost; management activities for American Wood- State Agency Directors. cock, grouse and other early successional and whereas . . . 4 In the best modern sense of Theodore . . . losses and deterioration of early species with other science based land and Roosevelt (Pinchot 1947:326. Breaking New successional habitat can be reversed through multiple resource management plans when Ground. Harcourt, Brace and Co., , proven management practices, conservation feasible; NY. “Use of the natural resources for the policy, sound decision making, and significant 6. Conducting periodic statewide early greatest good of the greatest number for the funding; successional species and habitat inventories longest time”), and Leopold 1933:17. Game . . . the American Woodcock is an easily including but not limited to: Management. Charles, Scribner’s Sons, New recognized symbol of early succession a. American woodcock habitat status, York, NY. (Roosevelt Doctrine of Conservation which: 1. “recognized all outdoor resources as wildlife, and a useful bio-indicator species that trends and conservation needs, b. expanded Connecticut DEP Ameri- one integral whole, 2. recognized their has significant social, economic and recre- “conservation through wise use” as a public ational values, for which substantial scientific can woodcock and ruffed grouse popula- responsibility, and their private ownership as a information and management expertise tion surveys using trained volunteers; public trust, 3. recognized science as a tool for already exists; discharging that responsibility.”)

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 15 New England Cottontails FROM THE FIELD A comprehensive study to better understand the distribution and habitat needs of the New England cottontail in Wood Duck Population Monitoring Connecticut was initiated in October 2000 by the DEP Wildlife Division. The New With the onset of a cold England cottontail is the only native rabbit winter and thick ice, DEP Wildlife species in Connecticut, and, although it was Division field personnel were historically distributed statewide, able to collect wood duck J. OLESWESKI populations now appear to be declining in population breeding data from Connecticut and throughout New England. most of the approximately 600 New England and eastern cottontail wood duck nesting boxes on were live-trapped in winter 2002 at state property. Wood duck nest Bluff Point Coastal Reserve, in Groton, and boxes are located throughout the marked with radio transmitters. The radio- state, many in extremely remote collared rabbits were monitored to assess wetland areas. Thick ice, safe their movements, habitat use and mortality. enough to walk on without Since February 2002, six to eight breaking, enables field staff to radiotelemetry locations have been gain access to many of the collected (3-4 day and 3-4 night locations) boxes. Staff visited box each week for all animals. A preliminary locations and inspected the evaluation of radio telemetry data indicated contents of the boxes. The that a typical home range size for eastern and presence of unhatched wood New England cottontails was 9.7 and 10.5 duck eggs, egg fragments and acres respectively. Areas within home ranges egg membranes in the boxes where animals spend most of their time are helped staff members determine called core areas of activity. The core area of breeding success rates from the activity for eastern and New England 2002 breeding season. In cottontails was 1.3 and 1.4 acres respectively. addition to collecting data, Home ranges and core areas were similar for many of the nest boxes are also both species. Home range overlap occurred being replaced or upgraded, and between species; however, core areas were their exact locations are being separate. recorded in a Global Positioning In winter 2003, additional rabbits were System. Wildlife Division field assistant James Warner captured at other sites in eastern Wood duck nest boxes inspects one of approximately 600 wood duck nest Connecticut and fitted with radiocollars and provide ideal nesting sites and boxes located in wetlands throughout the state. ear tags to assess habitat use and improve the breeding success of movements in a variety of habitat types. As the species. Since the 1950s, when the of February 6, 16 rabbits had been captured on wood duck nest box program began, Experimental Chestnut private and state land in southeastern records have shown a correlation between Planting Does Well Connecticut. the number of nest boxes and the increase Periodic updates will be provided in in the wood duck population statewide. Twenty of the 22 experimental American future issues of Connecticut Wildlife. The DEP This population monitoring effort helps chestnut hybrids that were planted at the Wildlife Division is still collecting rabbit biologists make decisions on wood duck Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area, specimens statewide to document the management. in Burlington, in the spring of 2002 have fared distribution of New England cottontails in Jim Warner, Field Assistant well. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Connecticut. Hunters and the general public Station, with assistance from the DEP Wildlife can submit rabbit carcasses or heads to the and Forestry Divisions and the “Friends of Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area “Friends of Sessions Sessions Woods,” planted the chestnut in Burlington or the Franklin Wildlife seedlings and watered them throughout the Management Area in North Franklin. This Woods” Receives Grant summer. The planting site was a 14-acre project is partially funded by the clearcut covered with slash. Getting water to The “Friends of Sessions Woods” Endangered Species/Wildlife Income Tax the site during the dry summer was difficult, received a $2,236 grant from the Bristol Main Check-off Fund and the Wildlife but necessary for the trees to survive. Street Foundation and the James R. Parker Conservation and Restoration Program The purpose of this long-term project is to Trust to publish “A Guide to Sessions (WCRP). have the blight resistant, hybrid chestnut trees Woods.” The author, Tess Bird of Burlington, Howard Kilpatrick, Deer/Turkey eventually crossbreed with native American has written this guide to provide more detailed Program Biologist chestnut trees that naturally occur in the information about the biology, history and planting site. It is hoped that blight resistant Correction: On page 3 of the January/ geology of Sessions Woods. Tess is a youth trees with the qualities of the American February 2003 issue of Connecticut Wildlife, member of the Board of Directors for the chestnut will develop. Sandra Anagnostakis, a the New England cottontail was incorrectly “Friends of Sessions Woods.” The new guide researcher from the Connecticut Agricultural referred to as a species of special concern in should be available soon at the Sessions Experiment Station, has been working toward Connecticut. The New England cottontail is Woods office, in Burlington. actually considered a species of regional this goal for many years. Steve Jackson, Wildlife Supervisor conservation concern in the Northeastern Steve Jackson, Wildlife Supervisor United States.

16 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 National Wildlife Week -- International Migratory Bird Day--May 10, 2003 April 21-27, 2003 Set on the National Wildlife Week--a celebration second of wildlife and wild places since 1938-- Saturday in P. J. FUSCO encourages kids and adults across the country May, to learn and experience nature, starting in their International own community. The myriad of annual Migratory Bird outreach efforts by the National Wildlife Day (IMBD) is Federation (NWF) and state affiliates includes an invitation to online activities and games, a Nature in Your celebrate and Neighborhood Fun Book and Poster, articles support and activities in NWF’s children’s magazines, migratory bird special events and contests. All these pieces conservation. combine to teach students about the Like any day of environment. recognition, The goal of National Wildlife Week is IMBD exists to to educate participants about wildlife focus attention conservation issues. By learning about on a valuable wildlife and conservation efforts in their resource--the community, students and adults learn how nearly 350 ©PAUL J. FUSCO they can become a positive influence on the species of All Rights Reserved environment. National Wildlife Week has migratory birds tackled many important environmental that travel The common yellowthroat, which occurs in Connecticut, is just one of issues like pollution, endangered species between nesting nearly 350 species of migratory birds that travel between nesting habitats and water quality. By focusing on the habitats in in North America and non-breeding grounds in South and Central America, theme of “Exploring Nature in Your North America Mexico and the Caribbean. International Migratory Bird Day exists to focus attention on the conservation of the birds and their habitats. Neighborhood,” National Wildlife Week and non- will emphasize these important topics and breeding many more. grounds in South and Central America, first U.S. National Wildlife Refuge in 1903: For more information on National Wildlife Mexico and the Caribbean. Pelican Island, home to colonies of brown Week, please email [email protected] or call Migratory birds are some of the most pelicans. One hundred years later, there are 800-822-9919. You can also visit NWF’s beautiful, observable and remarkable wildlife now over 500 National Wildlife Refuges, website (www.nwf.org) or call Connecticut’s that share our world. They are also an many founded for birds and all of which set NWF affiliate, the Connecticut Forest and important economic resource, controlling aside land purely for the needs of wildlife. Park Association, at 860-346-2372. insect pests and generating billions in ● Responsible sportsmen recognized the recreational dollars. need for regulated hunting of migratory Unfortunately, research has shown that waterfowl. The purchase of hunting licenses Compass Courses many migratory bird species are in decline, and duck stamps has funded the acquisition Established at Sessions facing a growing number of threats on their and management of millions of acres of migration routes and in both their summer and wetlands, providing benefits to waterfowl, Woods winter habitats. Thus, IMBD, in addition to nongame wetland birds, many other kinds of Through the cooperative efforts of the Boy being a day to foster appreciation, is a call to wildlife and humans. action. Scouts, the “Friends of Sessions Woods” and ● When populations of osprey, brown the DEP Wildlife Division, a series of four In 2003, IMBD, will be celebrated on May 10. Each year IMBD draws attention to a pelican, and other top-of-the-food-chain compass courses have been developed at the birds crashed in the 1960s, society realized Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area particular issue or topic. The 2003 theme, “Catalysts for Conservation,” explores how the far-reaching effects of environmental in Burlington. For his Eagle Scout project, contaminants and reassessed our controls Jeffrey Saraceno developed the compass birds have been the inspiration for many of the most significant conservation actions in the on pesticides and other toxins. Thanks to courses by locating 30 stations around the these “canaries in a coal mine,” our property and marking them with posts, each Americas. Thanks to birds, people have been motivated to improve conditions for all environment is cleaner for wildlife and identified by a unique symbol on top. The people alike. compass courses have been designed for wildlife...and ourselves. For example: different skill levels. ● The extinction of the passenger pigeon IMBD is the hallmark outreach event for The “Friends of Sessions Woods” helped ignite the conservation movement, Partners in Flight, a unique, diverse provided funding to purchase compasses and waking society up to the permanent damage consortium of individuals and groups who print a “Sessions Woods Compass Courses” caused by unregulated harvest. The last wild share a vision of healthy bird populations. guide that people can use when trying out the individual of one of the most numerous bird Since 1995, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service courses. The funding was provided through a species on Earth was killed in 1900. and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation have shared the principal responsibility for grant from the Burlington Fund and the James ● Many other species, such as the snowy national coordination of IMBD. To learn more R. Parker Trust. The DEP Wildlife Division egret, were slaughtered for fashion in the late about IMBD and upcoming events, visit http:// developed the guide and oversaw the course 1800s. Bird plumes and skins were used to birds.fws.gov/imbd/. development. The guide should be available by adorn ladies’ hats. In response to this spring. Those interested in using the compass overconsumption, bird lovers called for the courses now should contact Steve Jackson at formation of bird sanctuaries, including the the Sessions Woods office. Steve Jackson, Wildlife Supervisor

March / April 2003 Connecticut Wildlife 17 If You Care, Leave It There! Sometimes people do more harm to wildlife when they think they are helping. Wild animals can appear injured or abandoned but most times are usually fine. Did You Know? A young bird, which has just grown its flight P. J. FUSCO (2) feathers, is called a fledgling. Fledglings leave the nest about the time they can fly. They may not look like they can fly, but they can! A mother deer only visits her fawn four to six times a day to feed it. She is usually nearby but doesn’t want to lead a predator to her fawn. It is not only illegal to remove a fawn from the wild, but it reduces the chance that the fawn will survive. It takes years for a turtle to be old enough to have young. And, once a turtle is taken from ©PAUL J. FUSCO the wild, it is often non-releasable. If you All Rights Reserved care, leave it there! It is normal to see a fawn alone in the grass. Its mother is most likely nearby waiting to feed the fawn.

Danger! Don’t Touch! What’s for Breakfast? If you touch a wild animal, you could be putting Should you feed wildlife? Just like you, yourself in danger. Some animals have rabies and wild animals need good things to eat. can give it to People food is not good wildlife food! you. Often it is Bread is bad for ducks and geese because it does not give the birds the hard to tell if nutrition they need. If too many ducks an animal is and geese stay in one area because sick. Only they are getting fed, they can pass biologists, diseases to one another very easily. animal control Is it OK to feed songbirds? People officers and usually feed birds seed during winter. wildlife The seeds are fine for the birds. But rehabilitators people have to remember to keep bird should handle feeders clean so the birds don’t get injured sick. People should also remember to take down their birdfeeders in late animals. winter in areas where black bears are found to keep bears away from their homes. It is not a good idea to feed Because could have rabies, only wildlife other wild animals! rehabilitators who have taken special training from the DEP can care for orphaned or injured raccoons.

18 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 Wildlife Calendar Reminders

March ...... Donate to the Endangered Species/Wildlife Income Tax Check-off Fund on your 2002 CT Income Tax form. March 29 ...... Wild Turkey Hunting Seminar, starting at 9:00 AM, at the Sessions Woods Conservation Education Center, in Burlington. You won’t want to miss this presentation if you plan to hunt the elusive wild turkey. DEP wildlife biologist Mike Gregonis will discuss the natural history and management of the wild turkey, while Conservation Education/Firearms Safety instructors Gary Bennett, Ray Hanley and David Sanford will talk about turkey hunting techniques and safety. Call 860-675-8130 to preregister. April 5 ...... Plover Monitoring Volunteer Training Session (see page 8 for details). Mid-April ...... Dispose of fishing line in covered trash receptacles. Discarded fishing line is a hazard for wildlife. Late-April ...... Respect fenced and posted shorebird nesting areas when visiting Connecticut beaches from late-April until late summer. Also, keep dogs off of shoreline beaches to avoid disturbing nesting birds. April 21 ...... Nature Photography Techniques, at the DEP’s Kellogg Environmental Center, in Derby, from 7:30 PM-8:30 PM. Photographer Ian Bornarth will share how to capture nature on film. Cosponsored by the Naugatuck Valley Audubon Society. Please preregister by calling 203-734-2513. April 21-27 ...... National Wildlife Week (see page 17 for details). April 22 ...... Earth Day April 26 ...... Family Walk: Birds, Bugs and Blooms, at the DEP’s Kellogg Environmental Center, in Derby, from 9:30-11:00 AM. Discover the many signs of spring as you explore the meadows and forest of . Cost: $3.00. Please preregister by calling 203-734-2513. April 27 ...... Backyard Wildlife Habitat, starting at 1:30 PM, at the Sessions Woods Conservation Education Center, in Burlington. DEP wildlife biologist Peter Picone will discuss techniques, plantings and resources for attracting wildlife to your backyard. Find out how to register your backyard with the DEP as a “Wildlife Habitat.” The program will be held both indoors and outdoors. Call 860-675-8130 to preregister. May ...... Rabies Awareness Month -- Is your pet vaccinated? May 7-31 ...... Spring Turkey Hunting Season (See the 2003 Connecticut Hunting and Trapping Guide or visit the DEP website www.dep.state.ct.us for more information. Because of a new regulation passed at the end of 2002, the 2003 spring turkey season has been extended by four days. This change is not reflected in the 2003 hunting guide because it was printed before the change was made. The date has been updated on the DEP website). May 10 ...... International Migratory Bird Day (see page 17 for more details). June 7 ...... National Trails Day. The Wildlife Division is working cooperatively with the Connecticut Forest and Park Association to sponsor hikes leaving from the flag pole in front of the Sessions Woods Conservation Education Center, in Burlington. These guided walks will vary in length and difficulty from an interpretive walk to a hike of several miles. Call 860-675-8130 to preregister...... Guided Walk through a Clearcut, starting at 9:00 AM, at the Sessions Woods Conservation Education Center, in Burlington. This walk, postponed from November 2002, will be led by DEP forester David Irvin. Take a tour of a one-year-old clearcut and learn about the wildlife and forestry benefits of this forest management technique. A brief tour of a prescribed burn, American chestnut plantings and a 10-year-old clearcut that has regrown will be included. Dress for the weather and wear suitable footwear for stepping through woody debris. Call 860-675-8130 to preregister.

Look for the Wildlife Challenge in the next issue of Connecticut Wildlife. A new question, the answer to January/February’s question and the latest winner will be revealed. Connecticut Subscription Order Wildlife Please make checks payable to: Connecticut Wildlife, P.O. Box 1550, Burlington, CT 06013 Check one: Check one: Renewal 1 Year ($6.00) 2 Years ($11.00) 3 Years ($16.00) New Subscription Name: Gift Subscription

Address: Gift card to read: City: State: Zip:March / April 2003 Tel.: Connecticut Wildlife 19 P. J. FUSCO

©PAUL J. FUSCO All Rights Reserved Could spring be in the air? These two red-tailed hawks were photographed on Valentine’s Day as they looked for a new place to nest. Red-tailed hawks usually establish nesting territories by March into early April. The eggs are laid sometime in April.

Bureau of Natural Resources / Wildlife Division STANDARD Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection PRESORT 79 Elm Street U.S. POSTAGE Hartford, CT 06106-5127 PAID BRISTOL, CT PERMIT NO. 6

20 Connecticut Wildlife March / April 2003 PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER