Study Description

Title:
Effect of Disturbance on Breeding Black Oystercatchers in Prince William Sound, Alaska

Status: Completed

Synopsis:
Nearly 65% of the world’s Black Oystercatcher (BLOY) population breeds in Alaska’s Prince William Sound. The BLOY is listed as a species of high concern because of its small population and threats on its breeding grounds. As a top-level predator, BLOYs are thought to be particularly sensitive to certain environmental perturbations and are considered a principal indicator reflecting the overall health of the ecological community. Human disturbance may indirectly alter the parental behavior of oystercatchers, causing an increase in activity and a decrease in nest attendance and incubation. USGS scientists are using Forest Service study areas initiated in 2004 to more closely monitor behavior, disturbance, and other factors affecting nest success of individually marked birds. Scientists are also investigating the relationship between human disturbance and nesting success of BLOYs. Results fill a gap in baseline information on BLOYs breeding populations.

Related Publications:

Contact:
Haig, Susan M. - Supervisory Research Wildlife Biologist
Phone: 541-750-7482
Email: susan_haig@usgs.gov

U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Geological Survey
Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
URL: http://fresc.usgs.gov/
Contact: fresc_webmaster@usgs.gov
Last Update: June 30, 2003
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