Beth Price
Prepared by:
Kendy Radasky, Audubon Society
Jennifer Stroh, Audubon Society
Ed Easton, Friends of Coal Oil Point Reserve
Cristina Sandoval, Coal Oil Point Reserve Director
WELCOME *
SPONSORS / FUNDING/ ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS *
MAP OF COAL OIL POINT RESERVE *
INTRODUCTION *
PLOVER DOCENT POSITION *
THE DOCENT ROLE *
CHECK IN / CHECK OUT PROCEDURES *
OTHER PROCEDURES *
RULES AND REGULATIONS OF COAL OIL POINT RESERVE *
PUBLIC RELATIONS *
Frequently encountered situations *
Marine Mammal and Bird Care *
IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY *
Important Phone Numbers *
CONCLUSION *
REFERENCES *
Appendix A: Avian Identification Manual *
Appendix B: Snowy Plover Biology and Natural History *
Appendix C: More Interesting Natural History on the *
Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover *
Appendix D: The Snowy Plover at Coal Oil Point Reserve *
Appendix E: Teaching Tools *
Appendix F: Glossary of Terms *
Appendix G: Resources *
Appendix H: The Docent Self Quiz *
Welcome and thank you for participating in the Snowy Plover Docent Program at Sands Beach on Coal Oil Point Reserve!
Overall
The goal of the plover docent program is to assist the protection of the Snowy Plover at COPR by promoting educational opportunities and increasing the level of awareness of beach users.
This program has been in effect since August 2001. From its beginning, the feedback from docents has helped with its evolution. Please be vocal and active in your involvement; help create the most effective Plover Docent Program possible.
This manual is to help insure your effectiveness as a Docent. It outlines the duties and expectations of Plover Docents, provides documents and information that will supplement your training and will provide answers to many of the questions and problems likely to be encountered as a Docent.
SPONSORS / FUNDING/ ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This program is the product of the work of many individuals from several groups. The manager of Coal Oil Point Reserve, various board members of the Santa Barbara Audubon Society, coordinators of other Plover Volunteer Programs in Central and Northern California, and others too numerous to mention have all contributed to the inception and development of this program. Now that you are involved in the Program as a Docent, you will also be able to contribute to the further evolution of the Program through your actions and comments.
Coal Oil Point Reserve, UC Natural Reserve System
The mission of the University of California Natural Reserve System is to contribute to the understanding and wise management of the Earth and its natural systems by supporting university-level teaching, research and public service at protected natural areas throughout California.
Santa Barbara Audubon Society
The Santa Barbara Audubon Society educates members of our community about birds and their habitats, advocates responsible legislation and public policies which help preserve our natural resources, and administers science-based projects using birds as indicators of environmental health. By focusing on birds and other wildlife, SBAS works to conserve and restore ecosystems for the benefit of humanity and biological diversity. With your help we can create a culture of conservation to help preserve the ecological integrity of our world.
Coal Oil Point Reserve Snowy Plover Docent Program (SPDP)
The mission of the Snowy Plover Docent Program (SPDP) is to assist the protection of snowy plovers at Coal Oil Point Reserve, and to raise awareness in the local community of the importance of the preservation of the snowy plovers and their habitat.
The Shoreline Preservation Fund, California Coastal Commission, and generous contributions from members of the Santa Barbara chapter of the Audubon Society have provided funding for the Snowy Plover Docent Program at Coal Oil Point Reserve
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Acknowledgements
We are deeply indebted to the Volunteer Manual for Half Moon Bay State Beach, in the Bay Area District of the California State Parks (3/00 version). Nelle Lyons, the Chief Ranger there, provided us with a copy of their manual, as well as lots of other helpful information. We have also adapted our manual based on the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Western Snowy Plover Docent Program Manual (June 2002 version).
Snowy Plovers at Coal Oil Point Reserve
Each winter over the last thirty years, snowy plovers (plovers) would arrive from other beaches to roost on the dune-backed beach near the mouth of Devereux Slough at Coal Oil Point Reserve (COPR). Though plovers once occurred at COPR year round, they abandoned this site for nesting in the late 1960’s. Researchers believe the plovers abandoned this nesting site because they were no longer able to tolerate the high levels of disturbance caused by human recreation.
In the year 2000, active management (for plovers) at COPR began; management efforts included habitat restoration on the dunes, installation of educational signs, symbolic fencing, and the initiation of the Snowy Plover Docent Program. Less than 2 full years after these efforts began -- in June 2001 -- snowy plovers returned to COPR for breeding (one chick successfully fledged). The summer of 2002 was an even bigger success story -- with 14 chicks fledged! The reclamation of an abandoned breeding site is an unprecedented event for snowy plovers. This event is extremely exciting not only because of the increased breeding success of our local plover population, but because it opens the door to the potential for plovers to reclaim other abandoned nesting sites, if they are managed actively. We should not give up on these areas (usually current wintering sites, that were previously used for nesting) -- they may be the key to the recovery of the Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover recover and its removal from the Endangered Species List.
Coal Oil Point Reserve has proven to be a very special, important area for snowy plovers. The Reserve will continue to be managed with a focus on plovers to ensure that it remains a refuge for them throughout the year -- during winter as well as the breeding season.
Coal Oil Point Reserve is comprised of several protected coastal habitats that have been set aside to fulfill the University’s mission of research and education in the field of sciences and humanities. COPR is one of 34 reserves administered by the UC Natural Reserve System (NRS) and is the only reserve with public access. COPR consists of 157 acres located along the South Coast of Santa Barbara County, in the lower drainage area of the Devereux Creek Watershed, adjacent to the West Campus of the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). Only 15% of the original Devereux watershed remains undeveloped; COPR comprises the largest contiguous segment of that 15%. The diversity of habitats and wildlife at the Reserve is striking. More than 10 distinct habitat types -- including sandy beach, dunes, salt marshes, coastal scrub, grasslands, vernal pools, and freshwater ponds can be observed during a two-hour walking tour. Devereux Slough, which encompasses a large portion of the Reserve, is considered one of the ten best birding spots in the Western United States.
The Reserve harbors a variety of endangered and rare species such as the White-tailed Kite, California Least Tern, Snowy Plover, and the Belding’s Savannah Sparrow. The beach is an important roosting site for the Snowy Plover and now provides breeding habitat for this threatened species. Plovers commonly bred at this site until about 1970 and only began to again in 2001. The Endangered Species Act obligates the Reserve and the University to protect this species from the high levels of disturbance it presently experiences. The Reserve has studied options that maximize protection of plovers and minimize the inconvenience to beach users. The Snowy Plover Management Plan, in conjunction with the Snowy Plover Docent Program, aims to reduce disturbance by increasing public awareness, keeping foot traffic away from the core roost area, and enforcing the leash law for pets in the beach areas.
History of the Coal Oil Point Reserve Area
In November 1967, the Regents of the University of California purchased 236 acres along the coast from the Devereux Santa Barbara. This area, which now includes Coal Oil Point Reserve, included dunes, an estuary, and coastal terraces. During the negotiations to acquire this property, Dr. Ken Norris, the UC System-wide Natural Land and Water Reserve Committee, and UCSB faculty emphasized to the UCSB Chancellor that portions of the property had natural reserve value. During the development of the UCSB Long Range Development Plan of 1968, the dunes on the current "West Campus" property were designated a "Natural Resources" Reserve.
In late 1969, the UCSB Natural Land and Water Reserves (NLWRS) Committee recommended that the dunes, slough, and beach be included as part of a campus ecological Reserve. The University-wide Committee for NLWRS recommended that funds be allocated from its "Establishment Funds" for fencing and to provide housing for a caretaker at the proposed Reserve. Chancellor Vernon Cheadle concurred with these recommendations and requested that the identified areas be managed under the supervision of the campus Natural Land and Water Reserves Committee. The Reserve at this point was called the Devereux Natural Reserve.
The Regents took official action on the incorporation of the Coal Oil Point Reserve into the University NLWRS at their meeting on July 17, 1970. As incorporated, the Reserve consisted of 49 acres. In 1976, the campus NLWRS Faculty Advisory Committee and the UCSB Environmental Quality Committee both endorsed a proposed expansion of the Reserve. In September of 1979, the Reserve was officially expanded to include an additional 68 acres of the West Campus property, including all of Devereux Slough and the grasslands to the west, for a total area of 117 acres. In 2000 an additional 40 acres to west was incorporated in to the COPR.
For 30 years since its inception, the COPR had minimum funding and no paid staff. Caretakers were volunteers who had the main task of controlling trespassers. In 1997, Dr. Scott Cooper, director of the UC NRS, recognized the potential for COPR to become a more functional reserve and the need for more funding. At this point, the Reserve staff initiated aggressive programs for weed eradication, public outreach, and education and developed a Management Plan for the reserve. These activities resulted in a three-fold increase in class and research use. In 2000, the COPR received a full-time funded position for a Reserve Director from the Chancellor. This position allowed the director to focus on fund acquisition and implementation of various programs.
TITLE: Snowy Plover Docent
SUPERVISOR: Docent Coordinator and Coal Oil Point Reserve Manager
LOCATION: Coal Oil Point Reserve
Summary of Position
The volunteer/intern position will be responsible for interpreting Western Snowy Plovers and their habitat to beach users, filling out Disturbance Data Sheets, and interpreting COPR rules and regulations to the public in ways that encourage visitors to voluntarily comply with those rules.
A Snowy Plover Docent is a trained volunteer who maintains a level of expertise about this species and its habitat.
The following items are required of Snowy Plover volunteers:
If you would like to help beyond the beach...
THE DOCENT ROLE
The purpose of having a Docent Program at Coal Oil Point reserve is Public Education. What does that really mean?
Basically, it means docents help people learn how to share the beach with Plovers. Given the history of unregulated access to Sands Beach, a wide variety of people use the beach for a host of acceptable and unacceptable recreational activities. Public education is intended, over time, to minimize the unacceptable practices without diminishing the acceptable ones and to implant the idea that Sands beach is part of an ecological reserve owned by the University of California.
Having a positive Ambassador talking to people about plovers is the most effective educational tool possible. People like to learn from other people, not from textbooks or other educational media. If you talk to people about plovers they will learn what you know. Once they have begun to learn, they can begin to care. People who care about the plovers will change their behavior.
As a docent, you play two important roles:
1) Educator
2) Protector
As an educator, you can contact beach visitors by drawing them to you.
Education includes
As a protector, you may contact beach visitors by intercepting those who are not respecting the Reserve's regulations or those who pose a potential threat to the plovers. (see "RESERVE RULES AND REGULATIONS", page 21).
Protection includes 4 areas of concern:
1. Unleashed Dogs
2. Trespassing into exclosure
3. Sitting in the corridor
4. Crows
As a plover docent, it is your duty to ensure that all dogs, within the Reserve boundaries, are leashed and under the control of a visible owner at all times.
The owner of an unleashed dog should be asked to leash it. You may explain that it is a county ordinance -- enforced by campus police -- which carries a potential fine of over $100.00, if cited. If they do not have a leash, request they use one of ours.
A docent also ensures that the boundaries of the roost exclosure are respected, and appropriately addresses the situation when trespassing does occur.
When a human trespass occurs into the roost exclosure, do not try to stop the trespasser with shouts or frantic hand signals. Calmly motion them to come out, intercept them, and advise them of their error and the reasons why the roost is a "No Trespassing" area. Ask them politely to avoid the area in the future. Ample signs should be in place, but are not always available due to high tides and stormy weather. This is why it is important that you are there! If someone is in the roost area and not moving, approach them politely and ask them to leave, explaining why.
If you feel that a ball or frisbee game is too near the roost such that the ball may fall inside the roped area, ask the players to move farther away.
This section of beach, which runs parallel to the exclosure between the ocean and fence (called the "corridor"), is reserved solely for transportation, and should remain uncluttered by sunbathers, surfboards, etc…
We ask beach-users to use the wet sand adjacent to the roped area for moving from one side of the exclosure to the other. Snowy plovers use this area for feeding and if any belongings are set within this corridor, the plovers are unable to feed. Of course, if someone stops for a few minutes, it's not a problem.
A sign is also in place to help with this. If you see someone about to drop their belongings, it is appropriate to approach them politely and ask them to move to either boundary of the roost. It is unnecessary to disturb (pick up and move) anyone’s property.
4. CROWS
During the breeding season, the focus of your attention shifts to protecting plover eggs and chicks by discouraging crows -- the plovers' most prevalent predator at COPR -- from landing in the exclosure.
When there are nests on the beach, you are required to include the slingshot with the equipment brought down to the beach. The slingshot is used (in combination with small pebbles) to discourage crows from landing anywhere near the exclosure. Be sure to practice your shot before trying to scare away a crow, lest you shoot your foot or another bird instead!
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Although it is your job to interpret these rules in order to protect the snowy plover, IT IS NOT YOUR JOB TO ENFORCE THEM. If an encounter ever occurs where someone refuses to change their behavior, don’t let it get the best of you. Though the interaction may be disappointing, try to remain friendly, maintain a level of understanding, and thank them anyway. Depending on the event, you may walk away and call the Reserve Manager or campus police. Be sure to record the event on the data sheet. Any and all interactions that are potentially dangerous should be backed out of immediately. If you ever feel threatened in any way, step away and call campus police. |
CHECK IN / CHECK OUT PROCEDURES
Check In:
The chair contains pockets for the cell phone, leashes, clipboard, & data sheets.
Please wear the binoculars around your neck (to keep them from getting sandy in a bag). You may have to make two trips.
DON'T FORGET TO LOCK THE OFFICE
AND PLEASE DO YOUR BEST
TO KEEP BINOCULARS & SPOTTING SCOPE
OUT OF THE SAND!
Check Out:
2. Sign out by writing the actual time you are leaving.
3. Confirm your next shift on the posted schedule.
4. If any supplies need to be restocked or you have any comments/questions for the Coordinator and/or other docents, write it on the dry erase board.
OTHER PROCEDURES
If you drive to the Reserve for your Docent shift, you can park inside the gate. The lock combination will be given out to those who need to park and should only be used when working your docent shift. DO NOT GIVE THE GATE COMBINATION TO ANYONE.
Orientation to the Snowy Plover Docent Program is provided and required. There are three components for training to become a Snowy Plover Docent. The first is a three-hour, classroom orientation session followed by one, two-hour, on-site beach training and is completed with a two-hour tour of COPR, given by the Reserve Manager. The initial classroom orientation is scheduled once a month on a Saturday from 2-5pm. The on-site trainings take place within 1-2 weeks of the orientation. The tour is scheduled the Saturday following your orientation.
Docent Training photos
Snowy Plover Docents work under supervision of the Docent Program Coordinator, Jennifer Stroh, who provides day-to-day guidance, schedules docent training and hours, and is available to field questions or concerns from docents. Because the Program takes place on the Coal Oil Point Reserve, the Coordinator and all docents are under the supervision and ultimate direction of the Reserve Director, Cristina Sandoval.
The Docent Office is located right beside the Cliff House at the entrance to Sand's Beach. The office area includes such resources as the monthly docent schedule, sign-in/out sheets, a dry-erase Activities Board, and the Plover Binder (see below). The other equipment used for docenting is also stored here. All docents will be able to open the office using a combination lock (the same combo as the lock on the gate). We trust you to keep this combination to yourself and to lock all doors before you leave.
Recent and updated information (including news articles) relating to snowy plovers, local and regional plover issues, and the Plover Docent Program is compiled in a binder located in the office. Please take some time to look through the binder periodically, or feel free to make copies of the information. In an effort to save paper and program money, we will not distribute copies of everything to everyone, unless we feel the article/information is critical for all to read. The updated information can be highly valuable as part of your "Plover Talk" out on the beach
Docent Matt Wilson, signing in for his shift.
RULES AND REGULATIONS OF COAL OIL POINT RESERVE
The Coal Oil Point Reserve, where the Docent Program is based, has established rules and regulations to protect the ecological integrity of the Reserve grounds, and to provide for the safety of those who visit. The beach area is subject to both UCSB and Santa Barbara County ordinances, as well as rules specific to the Reserve. Docents, please become familiar with these regulations, so that you may inform others who question you about them, and of course, so that you may knowledgeably abide by them yourselves.
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• NO FIREARMS • NO FIRES OR BBQs • NO CAMPING • A WEST-CAMPUS PERMIT IS REQUIRED FOR THE PARKING LOT. • DOGS MUST BE ON LEASH WITHIN THE BOUNDARIES OF THE RESERVE • PASSIVE RECREATION IS PERMITTED IN DESIGNATED AREAS (walking, jogging, surfing, sun bathing) • ACTIVE RECREATION IS PERMITTED IF IT DOES NOT IMPACT SENSITIVE RESOURCES (LIKE THE PLOVERS) |
Good public relations may be defined as the "development and maintenance of public understanding, appreciation, and support for the objectives and programs" put forth by a specific group or institution (the Docent Program, in our case) (as defined in the HMB Volunteer Manual). Public Relations do not simply mean the dissemination of information; in fact, the quality of the communication with the public is key. We must remember not only what we are trying to communicate, but with whom we are communicating -- a sincere concern for the welfare of the public should always be at the forefront of our minds.
Every contact with the public -- whether it be on the beach, through a letter to the editor, or in line at the grocery store represents an opportunity to foster understanding and gain support for our program. Make an effort to be helpful and friendly at all times when dealing with the public. Our goal with the Docent Program is to help people enjoy the beach while learning to share it with other species -- not to be the Plover Police. We need to remember that people are just on the beach to relax and have fun (just as many of us do when we are not acting as Docents), and they need to be treated with respect and courtesy at all times.
One thoughtless statement or action on the part of one Docent can spoil the positive efforts of many; for this reason, we all need to make a constant effort towards friendly, courteous and effective interactions with the public when representing or discussing the Plover Docent Program. The trick to remaining positive about someone doing something wrong is to give them the benefit of the doubt. 90% of the trespassers are not paying attention and feel embarrassed by their action. Help them to not feel bad by saying "You may not know, but this area is now protected because of threatened birds that live here".
There may be times when you experience angry or unreasonable people. If it ever comes to the point where an individual is being abusive, refuses to comply, or is a repeat offender, back off and refer the situation immediately to the Docent Coordinator or other Reserve Staff or call the police 893-3446 (see "IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY").
When people are approached by docents, they often have a series of questions. Give them as much information as they need. When you are posed a question that you cannot answer offhand, and you cannot find the answer in your Manual’s reference material, then be honest and say you don’t know the answer. It is very important not to give out false or misleading information -- even unintentionally -- because it can confuse the visitor and damage the public relations of the Program. Be sure to write down the question which ‘stumped’ you and talk to the Docent Coordinator about it later -- she will help you learn the answer so you will be ready next time!
Do not say: "I am just a docent". You are a trained person with appropriate qualifications that deserves the respect of beach users. Not knowing an answer is acceptable.
As Snowy Plover Docents on the Coal Oil Point Reserve, you can help interest the casual visitor in the Reserve’s natural and ecological value. By explaining and interpreting the interrelations of plants, animals and humans to their environment in a factual and interesting manner, the Docent may help acquaint the visitor with the great opportunity to both enjoy and preserve the natural environment.
Education is the first step toward understanding, appreciation, and eventually support.
Frequently encountered situations
Many of the people who recreate on Sands Beach are unaware that it is part of an ecological reserve, and subsequently are under the impression that there are few limiting rules. Part of your job as a Snowy Plover Docent will be to inform people of these rules -- often at a time when they are violating one of them (e.g. walking inside the fenced plover area). In these situations, we want to avoid negative interactions at all costs -- to ensure an enjoyable beach experience for the visitor and your own safety. You must remember to be diplomatic and explain the reasons behind the rules. DO NOT EVER PUT YOURSELF IN A CONFRONTATIONAL SITUATION. If someone gets argumentative or aggressive, contact the Reserve Director (451-2403 or 893-5092) or call campus police (893-3446) immediately.
Here are some common questions and comments from beach users and suggestions on how to field them:
My dog never chases birds.
Even if your dog is not actively chasing plovers and other birds, the dog’s presence alone (even when on a leash) causes stress to the birds. Please keep your leashed dog away from the plover roost area. The plovers weigh less than one ounce. If their energy is used to fly from disturbances, it can jeopardize their ability to reproduce.
So, if I can’t run my dog off leash here, where can I?
There is a county ordinance that says dogs must be leashed in public areas. This law is enforced within the Reserve boundaries. Please move outside the Reserve boundaries. The eastern boundary is at the "jail house" and the western boundary is Ellwood beach, by the Eucalyptus row.
Why can’t the birds just move down the beach to where there are no/fewer people?
Snowy plovers need an specific type of beach for resting and feeding. The beach needs to be wide and flat and open, so they can see potential predators approaching, with dunes in the background where they can take cover in extreme high-tide conditions and storm events. The plovers can’t move down the beach, but we humans can!
Just let natural selection proceed -- if the bird was meant to die off, then it will!
The decline of the Pacific Coast population of plovers is due to UNNATURAL events, such as human recreation, dogs, development of coastal property, introduction of exotic plants, the expansion of the range of the non-native red fox, and an increase in crows on beaches (attracted to garbage left behind by visitors). Plovers have lived here much longer than humans have been using the beaches, and it is only recently that human encroachment has impacted their survival and nesting success. Snowy plovers used to regularly breed on this beach until it was opened to public access in the late 1960’s. For 30 years they did not have any successful nests until the summer of 2001 when 2 chicks were found. This beach is very important for wintering birds and once again, a critical breeding site as well.
I just want to play ball with my friends. Why do you want me to move?
Active recreation is discouraged near the roost site because of the sensitivity of the area. The action of a group of people running around near the roost and tossing a ball through the air is very stressful for the plovers. They are forced to spend a lot of energy in vigilance -- watching to make sure that those stomping feet and flying balls are not a direct threat to their safety -- and running or flying away when they do feel threatened. That time and energy is better spent feeding and resting, so that they may have many, healthy chicks during the breeding season.
I just want to leave my clothes here while I surf. Why can't I hang my towel or clothing on the fence post, or drift wood?
Though your clothes may not seem like they’d be threatening to a plover, they can be. Piles of clothes and food/trash left behind on the beach attract crows and other predators to the beach. The action of standing a piece of driftwood on end (as many surfers do, to easily relocate their stuff at the end of a session in the water) also can pose a threat -- that driftwood becomes a perch for avian predators such as falcons and kestrels. Also, your presence near the roost even if you are just changing into your wetsuit can be threatening to the plovers -- please leave your things down the beach a bit, away from the plover roost.
I’ve ridden my horse here for years. Can I still ride here?
You can still ride your horse on the Reserve and on this beach, away from the roost area -- but please observe the roost fence, staying on the wet sand in that area.
Why can't I collect and bring home shells, rocks or other treasures on the beach?
The plants, animals, and other items (even rocks or bones) found on the shores of COPR belong on the Reserve. The area has been set aside as part of a Natural Reserve System so that the living and non-living items may remain undisturbed, and contribute to a balanced ecosystem.
Why haven't you removed the marine mammal carcass that appeared a few days ago?
The carcasses provide food for many native shore animals. It is a natural process and should also be left undisturbed.
There is an injured marine mammal or a sick bird that can't fly, over in the wet sand!
Thank you, for bringing this to my attention. The best thing you can do is leave it alone. Unfortunately, I haven't been trained to handle wild animals, but I can call the Marine Mammal Center right now and they will address the situation.
The following is information on marine mammal and bird care for our area; the National Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program (MMHSRP) is a federal government program run by the National Marine Fisheries Service under National Oceanic And Atmospheric Association. The goals of this period are "to facilitate collection and dissemination of data, to assess health trends in marine mammals, to correlate health with available data on physical, chemical, environmental, and biological parameters and to coordinate effective responses to unusual mortality events". The designated centers for Santa Barbara County are:
Dead cetaceans Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
(whales and dolphins) : (805) 682-4711 ext 353
Live marine mammals SB Marine Mammal Center
including pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) and
cetaceans (whales and dolphins) : (805) 687-3255
Live birds Wildlife Care Network: (805) 966-9005
When leaving information at one of these locations, be sure to give the exact location where you found the animal, date and time, and your phone number in case animal care technicians have any questions.
Notes
While volunteering as a Plover Docent, you may find yourself in the position to observe conditions that constitute potential or direct hazards or violations. It is part of your duty to recognize and report such conditions. Please do not attempt, on your own, to handle any situation with which you feel unsure or uncomfortable -- always call someone to help you. Judgment is important, of course, in deciding whether the situation should simply be noted and routinely reported to the Docent Coordinator, or whether it is serious and time-sensitive enough to make an immediate report to the Reserve Manager or Police. Following are the important phone numbers you should know, and the procedures for handling various emergency/safety situations, including whom to call for what type of incident. Use the cell phone provided for Docents to make these calls. The phone is part of the equipment to have on you throughout your shift. The 3 most important numbers are pre-programmed and labeled for easy access. Though you may have your own cell phone, please take the docent cell down and use it instead.
You may not ever need of any of these phone numbers or procedures, but in case you do find yourself in a situation, which calls for additional assistance, follow these guidelines to decide whom to call or report to:
Call 911 and Reserve Director
- Any medical emergency, which is potentially life-threatening and requires an ambulance (do not attempt to render aid until you have called for help)
- Swimmer needing assistance
- Violence of any type
- Use or obvious possession of firearms
Call Reserve Director and campus police
- Disturbances approaching violence (including threats to Docents’ safety by angry visitors)
- Property damage in progress (i.e. vandalism of signs, fences, vehicles on beach, etc.)
- Off-leash dogs without a visible owner, or owners who refuse to leash their dog.
- Argumentative, vocally uncooperative visitors who harass Docents
- People/dogs/horses entering plover fenced area who refused to obey your request to leave.
See next page (with "IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS") for who to call if you encounter injured wildlife or hazardous conditions of any kind.
AFTER REVIEWING THE ABOVE LIST, IF YOU ARE STILL UNSURE
OF WHAT TO DO, CALL THE RESERVE DIRECTOR, AND SHE WILL DECIDE WHOM TO FURTHER
INVOLVE, IF ANYONE.
Tips To Remember When Reporting Emergencies
Emergency Medical 911
COPR Director (Cristina Sandoval, for violations) Cell 451-2403
Home 685-0255
Office 893-5092
University Campus Police (for violations) 893-3446
Docent Cell Phone 448-5276
Docent Coordinator (Jennifer Stroh) Voice mail: 880-1195
Home:961-9378
Docent Co-Coordinator (Kendy Radasky) 961-9378
Marine Mammal Center (for stranded marine mammals) 687-3255
Wildlife Care Network (for stranded/sick wild birds) 966-0023
Env. Health and Safety (pollution, hazardous materials) 893-3194
On behalf of everyone involved in making this program a reality, THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING IN THE SNOWY PLOVER DOCENT PROGRAM!!!
We’re glad to be involved with such a dedicated group of people, and hope you have a very positive experience as a Plover Docent.
Sunset at Sand's
A heap of documents (examples of fliers, posters, signs, whole docent manuals, entire power point presentations, etc.) were provided by various people and programs (along with heaps of encouragement and support) to aid in the development of our docent program. Especially useful were documents and information from Jean Scott, Interpretive Specialist at Marina State Beach; Nelle Lyons, Ranger at Half Moon Bay State Beach; and Sue Abbot, with Point Reyes Bird Observatory and Point Reyes National Seashore. Following are references to some of the specific documents which were markedly helpful in developing our documents and program:
A Closer Look: Snowy Plover. Paton, Peter W. C. Birding, June 1999.
K. D. Lafferty, 2001. Status, Trends, and Conservation of the Western Snowy Plover with a focus on the Devereux Slough populations at Coal Oil Point Reserve, Santa Barbara County, CA. Museum of Systematics and Ecology Environmental Report No. 15, University of California, Santa Barbara
K.D. Lafferty, 2001. Disturbance to wintering western snowy plovers. Biological Conservation (in press).
K.D. Lafferty, 2001. Birds at a Southern California beach: seasonality, habitat use and disturbance by human activity Biodiversity and Conservation (in press).
Page, G.W.; Warriner, J.S. and J.C.; & Paton, P.W.C. 1995. Snowy Plover. The Birds of North America, No. 154, Pajaro Dunes, CA.
Minutes from "20 October 2000 Snowy Plover Meeting". Provided by Jean Scott.
Plover-Watch Volunteer Manual. California State Parks, Bay Area District, Half Moon Bay State Beach. March 2000 version. Provided by Nelle Lyons, Ranger. Point Reyes National Seashore.
Provided by Sue Abbott.. "Simple Things that You Can Do to Help Snowy Plovers" poster. Poster / Call for Plover Volunteer Docents. Point Reyes Bird Observatory.
Provided by Sue Abbott. Poster / Call for Plover Guardian Volunteers. Marina State Beach, California State Parks.
Provided by Jean Scott. Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens Volunteer Manual. Santa Barbara Zoo Education Dept., 2000.
The Remarkable Snowy Plover. Warriner, Jane (Ricky) and John S. Observer, (Journal of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory), Number 88, Spring 1990.
The Federal Register, 1999. The Snowy Plover.
National Wildlife Refuges website. http://refuges.fws.gov/birds/WestSnowyPlover/references.html
Reprinted in February, 2001 "Threatened Species: Western Snowy Plover" Handout. Half Moon Bay State Beach, California State Parks.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. "Western Snowy Plover (Coastal Population)" handout.
"Western
Snowy Plover" Handout. Point Reyes National
Seashore and Point Reyes Bird Observatory.
Appendix A: Avian Identification Manual
Family: Plovers (Charadriidae)
Western Snowy Plover
(Charadrius alexandrinus)
Description: 5-7", (13-18 cm)
A small whitish plover with pale brown upperparts; black legs, slender black bill and small black mark on each side of breast.
Juvenile: Thin black bill, pale ear coverts, pale breast patches, buff-edged feathers on back and wing coverts.
Voice: a plaintive chu-we or o-wee-ah.
Habitat: Flat sandy beaches, salt flats, and sandy areas with little vegetation.
Nesting: 2 or 3 buff eggs spotted with black in a sandy depression lined with a few shell fragments or bits of grass.
Range: Resident along Pacific Coast from British Columbia to Mexico, and along Gulf Coast from Texas to Florida Panhandle. Also breeds locally in interior from California and Nevada, east to Oklahoma and Texas. Also in Old World.
This small sand-colored plover has a perfect camouflage on sandy shores. As soon as it stops running it seems to disappear, blending into its surroundings. The eggs also blend with surroundings. The eggs also blend with dry sand or salty barren soil and are almost impossible to find once the incubating bird slips off them. Inland, these birds feed mainly on insects but along the coast they also take crustaceans, worms, and other small marine creatures.
Family: Plovers (Charadriidae)
Semipalmated Plover
(Charadrius semipalmatus)
Description: 6-8", (15-20 cm)
A brown —backed plover with white underparts and one black breast band. Bill stubby, yellow-orange, with dark tip. Immature has all black bill and brownish breast band. Larger Killdeer has two black breast bands.
Voice: A plaintive two note whistle, tu-wee also a soft, rather musical rattle.
Habitat: Breeds on sandy or mossy tundra; during migrations found on beaches, mud flats, shallow pools of salt marshes, and lake shores.
Nesting: 4 buff eggs, with dark brown and black, placed in shallow depressions sparsely lined with shell fragments, pebbles and bits of vegetation on the tundra.
Range: Breeds from Alaska east to New Finland and Nova Scotia. Winters regularly from California and Carolina south along Gulf Coast; rarely found farther north.
Like other plovers, the semipalmated forages in short bursts- a quick run followed by a stop- which it scans the sand or mud in front of it for any sign of life before running on. It does not probe like its usual associates, the longer billed sandpipers.
Taking most of their food right from the surface, semipalmated plovers prey mainly on small crustaceans and mollusks.
Family: Plovers (Charadriidae)
Black-bellied Plover
(Pluvialis squatarola)
Description: 10-13", (25-33 cm)
A quail-sized plover. Breeding adults grey, with flecks of light and dark above, black on face and breast, and white on belly. Winter adults similar, but face and breast are white like belly. Young birds have upperparts flecked with yellow, breast and belly finely streaked. In all plumages, bold white wing stripe, white rump, and black patch under wing.
Voice: A clear whistled pee-a-wee.
Habitat: Breeds on tundra; winters on beaches, mudflats, and coastal marshes, and lakeshores.
Nesting: 3 or 4 buff eggs, spotted with brown, in a shallow depression lined with moss, lichens, and grass.
Range: Breeds in northwestern Alaska and Arctic Canada. Winters mainly along coasts from British Columbia and Massachusetts southward. Also in Eurasia.
Most of us see the Black-bellied Plover during the winter or in migration, when it may lack its bold black underparts but is nonetheless conspicuous among the smaller shorebirds that frequently accompany it. It is one of the shier species, usually the first to take flight when a flock of shorebirds is approached.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Sanderling
(Calidris alba)
Description: 8", (20 cm)
A starling-sized shorebird with a conspicuous white wing stripe. Summer adults have rufous head and breast, white belly. In winter, rufous area replaced by pale grey and birds look almost white. Bill and legs black.
Voice: kip Conversational chatter while feeding.
Habitat: Breeds on tundra; winters on ocean beaches, sand bars, mud flats, and lake and river shores.
Nesting: 4 olive eggs, spotted with brown, placed in a hollow on the ground lined with grasses and lichens.
Range: Breeds in high Arctic tundra from Alaska eastward to Baffine Island. Winters along coasts from British Columbia and Massachusetts southward to southern South America. Also Eurasia.
One of the most widespread of all shorebirds, the sanderling turns up on almost every beach in the world. As a wave comes roaring in, the birds run up on the beach just ahead of the breaker, then they sprint after the retreating water to feed on the tiny crustaceans and mollusks left exposed.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Willet
(Catoptrophorus semipalmatus)
Description:15", 38cm
A large shorebird, gray-brown, with a long straight bill. Best identifies in flight by its flashy black and white wing pattern. Gray legs and thicker bill distinguish it from Greater Yellowlegs.
Voice: A loud ringing pill-will-willet and a quiter kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk.
Habitat: Coastal beaches, freshwater and salt marshes, lakeshores, and wet prairies.
Nesting: 4 olive-buff eggs, spotted with brown, in a nest lined with weeds or bits of shell placed in a depression on open ground or in a grass clump.
Range: Breeds from central Canada to northeastern California and Nevada; also along Atlantic and Gulf coasts south from Nova Scotia. Winters along from Oregon and Carolinas southward.
Willets are conspicuous, noisy birds with several distinctive calls. They separate when feeding but remain in loose contact. If one bird takes flight, all the others will join it; the birds usually fly together, calling back and forth, before dropping down farther along the beach.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Whimbrel
(Numenius minutus)
Description: 17", 43 cm
A large shorebird with a down-curved bill. Uniform brown or gray-brown above, with bold head stripes and long legs.
Voice: A series of 5-7 loud, clear, whistled notes: pip-pip-pip-pip-pip.
Habitat: Breeds on Arctic tundra, especially near coast; coastal salt meadows, mudflats, and grassy shoreline slopes during migration.
Nesting: 4 olive eggs, heavily marked with brown, in a depression in moss or in a sedge clump on the ground.
Range: Breeds in Arctic Alaska and Canada. Winters in southern California, Gulf Coast, and Atlantic Coast north to Virginia. Also in Eurasia.
The Whimbrel is found along both coasts, as well as in the interior of the continent. It is still numerous because of its wary behavior and the remoteness of its nesting grounds on the Arctic tundra.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Marbled Godwit
(Limosa fedoa)
Description:18" 46 cm
A crow-sized shorebird, dark and mottled above, cinnamon-buff below, with cinnamon wing linings and long, pinkish, upturned bill.
Voice: A loud kerreck or god-wit, usually heard on breeding grounds.
Habitat: Breeds on grassy plains; visits salt marshes, tidal creeks, mudflats, and sea beaches on migration.
Nesting: 4 olive-buff eggs, blotched with brown, in a slight depression lined with grass on the ground.
Range: Breeds on the central plains from Saskatchewan to Minnesota. Winters on coasts from California and Virginia southward and along Gulf Coast.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Black Turnstone
(Arenaria melanocephala)
Description: 9", 23 cm
In breeding plumage, black upperparts, head, and breast; large white spot in front of eye and white line above eye; fine white spotting from nape across side of breast; white belly. In winter plumage, dusky black with unstreaked white belly. Legs dark. Bill short and slightly upturned. In flight shows a black and white pattern.
Voice: A grating rattle.
Habitat: Breeds in marshy coastal tundra; seaweed- covered rocky shores in fall and winter.
Nesting: 4 yellowish-olive eggs, with darker yellow and brown markings, in an unlined depression on an open, pebbly ridge or gravel bar in wet tundra.
Range: Breeds on western and southern coasts of Alaska. Winters all along West Coast from Alaska south to Baja and Sonora, Mexico.
Family: Sandpipers, Phalaropes, and Allies (Scolopacidae)
Long-billed Dowitcher
(Limnodromus scolopaceus)
Description: 12" (30 cm)
A snipe-like, long-billed shorebird with white lower back and rump, black and white checkered tail, dark bill, green legs. Summer adults have reddish underparts (including belly), with barring on breast, sides, and flanks, and reddish edges on feathers of upperparts. Winter birds gray overall, with pale eyebrow and white lower back and rump.
Voice: A high sharp keek,
Habitat: Breeds in muskeg; found on mudflats, marshy pools, and margins of freshwater ponds during migration and in winter.
Nesting: 4 olive eggs, spotted with brown, in a grass and moss-lined nest on the ground.
Range: Breeds in western Alaska and extreme northwestern Mackenzie. Winters mainly along coasts from Washington and Virginia southward.
Family: Bitterns and Herons (Ardeidae)
Great Blue Heron
(Ardea herodias)
Description: 39-52", (99-132cm)
A common large, mainly grayish heron with pale or yellowish bill.
Voice: A harsh squawk.
Habitat: Lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes.
Nesting: 3-7 pale greenish-blue eggs placed on a shallow platform of sticks lined with finer material, usually in a tree but sometimes on the ground concealed in a reedbed. Nests in colonies.
Range: Breeds locally from coastal Alaska, south-central Canada, and Nova Scotia south to Mexico and West Indies. Winters as far north as southern Alaska, central U.S. and southern New England. Also in Galapagos Islands.
Family: Bitterns and Herons (Ardeidae)
Snowy Egret
(Egretta thula)
Description: 20-27",
(51-69 cm)
A small, delicate white heron with a slender black bill, black legs, and yellow feet. In breeding season, it has long lacy plumes on its back. Immature bird similar to adult, but has yellow stripe up back of leg. Adult Cattle Egret has pale bill, legs, and feet; immature has dark bill, legs, and feet; Much larger Great Egret has yellow bill and black legs and feet.
Voice: A harsh squawk.
Habitat: Marshes, ponds, swamps, and mudflats.
Nesting: 3-5 pale blue-green eggs placed on a platform of sticks in a bush or reedbed or on the ground. Nests in colonies, often with other species of herons.
Range: Breeds locally from Oregon and California east to New England, mainly along coasts but also at scattered localities inland. Winters regularly form California, Arizona, and Virginia south to West Indies and South America. Also resident in tropical America.
Family: Pelicans (Pelecanidae)
Brown Pelican
(Pelecanus occidentalis)
Description: 45-54", (1.1-1.4m)
A very large, stocky bird with a dark brown body and a long flat bill. Head whitish in adults, with dark brown on hindneck during breeding season. Young birds have dark brown heads and whitish bellies.
Voice: Usually silent, but utters low grunts on nesting grounds.
Habitat: Sandy coastal beaches and lagoons, waterfronts and pilings, and rocky cliffs.
Nesting: 2 or 3 chalky white eggs in a nest of sticks, straw, or other debris, usually on a rocky island near the coast. Nests in colonies.
Range: Resident of Pacific coast from Southern California south to Chile, dispersing northward as far as southern British Columbia after nesting season. Also on Atlantic coast from North Carolina south to Venezuela.
Appendix B: Snowy Plover Biology and Natural History
The western snowy plover, which is one of twelve subspecies of the snowy plover (Rittinghaus 1961 in Jacobs 1986), is a small, pale colored shorebird with dark patches on either side of the upper breast. The species was first described in 1758 by Linnaeus (American Ornithologists' Union 1957).
A. Breeding Habitat
The Pacific coast population of the western snowy plover breeds in loose colonies primarily on coastal beaches from southern Washington to southern Baja California, Mexico. On the Pacific coast, larger concentrations of breeding birds occur in the south than in the north, suggesting that the center of the plovers' coastal distribution lies closer to the southern boundary of California (Page and Stenzel 1981). In Baja California, Mexico, snowy plovers are distributed across 28 sites, with concentrations at six coastal lakes (Dra. Graciela De La Graza Garcia, Director General of Conservation Ecology and Natural Resources, United States of Mexico, in litt., 1992).
Other less common nesting habitat includes salt pans, coastal dredged spoil disposal sites, dry salt ponds, and salt pond levees and islands (Widrig 1980, Wilson 1980, Page and Stenzel 1981). Sand spits, dune-backed beaches, unvegetated beach strands, open areas around estuaries, and beaches at river mouths are the preferred coastal habitats for nesting (Stenzel et al. 1981, Wilson 1980).
B. Breeding Areas
Based on the most recent surveys, a total of 28 snowy plover breeding sites or areas currently occur on the Pacific Coast of the United States. Two sites occur in southern Washington--one at Leadbetter Point, in Willapa Bay (Widrig 1980), and the other at Damon Point, in Grays Harbor (Anthony 1985). In Oregon, nesting birds were recorded in 6 locations in 1990 with 3 sites (Bayocean Spit, North Spit Coos Bay and spoils, and Bandon State Park-Floras Lake) supporting 81 percent of the total coastal nesting population (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, unpubl. data, 1991). A total of 20 plover breeding areas currently occur in coastal California (Page et al. 1991). Eight areas support 78 percent of the California coastal breeding population: San Francisco Bay, Monterey Bay, Morro Bay, the Callendar-Mussel Rock Dunes area, the Point Sal to Point Conception area, the Oxnard lowland, Santa Rosa Island, and San Nicolas Island (Page et al. 1991).
C. Wintering Areas
The coastal population of the western snowy plover consists of both resident and migratory birds. Some birds winter in the same areas used for breeding (Warriner et al. 1986, Wilson-Jacobs, pers. comm. in Page et al. 1986). Other birds migrate either north or south to wintering areas (Warriner et al. 1986). Plovers occasionally winter in southern coastal Washington (Brittell et al. 1976). The recent discovery of snowy plovers wintering near Cape Shoalwater in Pacific County, Washington, represents the northernmost record of wintering snowy plovers on the Pacific coast (Scott Richardson, Washington Department of Wildlife, pers. comm., 1994). From 43 to 81 plovers wintered on the Oregon coast between 1982-1990, primarily on 3 beach segments (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1994).
The majority of birds, however, winter south of Bodega Bay, California (Page et al. 1986). Wintering plovers occur in widely scattered locations on both coasts of Baja California and significant numbers have been observed on the mainland coast of Mexico at least as far south as San Blas, Nayarit (Page et al. 1986). Many interior birds west of the Rocky Mountains winter on the Pacific coast (Page et al. 1986, Stern et al. 1988). Birds winter in habitats similar to those used during the nesting season.
A. Nesting and Reproduction
Widely varying nest success (percentage of nests hatching at least one egg) and reproductive success (number of young fledged per female, pair, or nest) are reported in the literature. Nest success ranges from 0 to 80 percent for coastal snowy plovers (Widrig 1980, Wilson 1980, Saul 1982, Wilson-Jacobs and Dorsey 1985, Wickham unpubl. data in Jacobs 1986, Warriner et al. 1986). Instances of low nest success have been attributed to a variety of factors, including predation, human disturbance, and inclement weather conditions. Reproductive success ranges from 0.05 to 2.40 young fledged per female, pair or nest (Page et al. 1977, Widrig 1980, Wilson 1980, Saul 1982, Warriner et al. 1986, Page 1988). Page et al. (1977) estimated that snowy plovers must fledge 0.8 young per female to maintain a stable population. Reproductive success falls far short of this threshold at many nesting sites (Widrig 1980, Wilson 1980, Warriner et al. 1986, Page 1988, Page 1990).
B. Breeding Site Decline
Historic records indicate that nesting western snowy plovers were once more widely distributed in coastal California, Oregon, and Washington than they are currently. In coastal California, snowy plovers bred at 53 locations prior to 1970 (Page and Stenzel 1981). Since that time, no evidence of breeding birds has been found at 33 of these 53 sites, representing a 62 percent decline in breeding sites (Page and Stenzel 1981). The greatest losses of breeding habitat were in southern California, within the central portion of the snowy plover's coastal breeding range. In Oregon, snowy plovers historically nested at 29 locations on the coast (Charles Bruce, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, pers. comm., 1991). In 1990 only 6 nesting colonies remained, representing a 79 percent decline in active breeding sites. In Washington, snowy plovers formerly nested in at least 5 sites on the coast (Eric Cummins, pers. comm., 1991). Today only 2 colony sites remain active, representing, at minimum, a 60 percent decline in breeding sites.
C. Breeding Population Decline
In addition to loss of nesting sites, the plover breeding population in California, Oregon, and Washington has declined 17 percent between 1977 and 1989 (Page et al. 1991). Declines in the breeding population have been specifically documented in Oregon and California. Breeding season surveys along the Oregon coast from 1978 to 1993 show that the number of adult snowy plovers has declined significantly at an average annual rate of about 7 percent (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1994). The number of adults has declined from a high of 142 adults in 1981 to a low of 30 adults in 1992 (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 1994; Randy Fisher, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, in litt., 1992). If the current trend continues, breeding snowy plovers could disappear from coastal Oregon by 1999. In 1981, the coastal California breeding population of snowy plovers was estimated to be 1,565 adults (Page and Stenzel 1981). In 1989, surveys revealed 1,386 plovers (Page et al. 1991), an 11 percent decline in the breeding population. The population decline in California may be greater than indicated; the 1989 survey results are considered more reliable than the earlier estimates, which may have underestimated the overall population size (Gary Page, pers. comm., 1991).
Although there are no historic data for Washington, it is doubtful that the snowy plover breeding population in Washington was ever very large (Brittell et al. 1976). However, loss of nesting sites in this state probably has resulted in a reduction in their overall population size. In recent years, fewer than 30 birds have nested on the southern coast of Washington (James Atkinson, pers. comm, 1990; Eric Cummins, pers. comm., 1991). In 1991, only one successful brood was detected in the State (Tom Juelson, Washington Department of Wildlife, in litt., 1992).
D. Wintering Population Decline
Survey data also indicate a decline in wintering snowy
plovers, particularly in southern California. The number of snowy plovers
observed during Christmas Bird Counts from 1962 to 1984 significantly decreased
in southern California despite an increase in observer participation in the
counts (Page et al. 1986). This observed decline was not accompanied by a
significant loss of wintering habitat over the same time period (Page et
al. 1986).
A. Habitat Loss
The most important form of habitat loss to coastal breeding snowy plovers has been encroachment of European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria). This non-native plant was introduced to the west coast around 1898 to stabilize dunes (Wiedemann 1987). Since then it has spread up and down the coast and now is found from British Columbia to southern California (Ventura County). European beachgrass is currently a major dune plant at about 50 percent of California breeding sites and all of those in Oregon and Washington (J.P. Myers, National Audubon Society, in litt., 1988). Stabilizing sand dunes with European beachgrass has reduced the amount of unvegetated area above the tideline, decreased the width of the beach, and increased its slope. These changes have reduced the amount of potential snowy plover nesting habitat on many beaches and may hamper brood movements. The beachgrass community also provides habitat for snowy plover predators that historically would have been largely precluded by the lack of cover in the dune community. Cost effective methods to control or eradicate European beachgrass have not yet been found.
B. Human Impacts
In the habitat remaining for snowy plover nesting, human activity (e.g., walking, jogging, running pets, horseback riding, off-road vehicle use, and beach raking) is a key factor in the ongoing decline in snowy plover coastal breeding sites and breeding populations in California, Oregon, and Washington. The nesting season of the western snowy plover (mid-March to mid-September) coincides with the season of greatest human use on beaches of the west coast (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Human activities detrimental to nesting snowy plovers include unintentional disturbance and trampling of eggs and chicks by people and unleashed pets (Stenzel et al. 1981, Warriner et al. 1986, P. Persons, in litt., 1992), off-road vehicle use (Widrig 1980, Stenzel et al. 1981, Anthony 1985, Warriner et al. 1986, Page 1988, Philip Persons, in litt., 1992); horseback riding (Woolington 1985, Page 1988, Philip Persons, in litt., 1992); and beach raking (Stenzel et al. 1981). Page et al. (1977) found that snowy plovers were disturbed more than twice as often by such human activities than all other natural causes combined.
C. Effect of Controlling Human Intrusion
In the few instances where human intrusion into snowy plover nesting areas has been precluded either through area closures or by natural events, nesting success has improved. The average number of young fledged per nesting pair increased from 0.75 to 2.00 after the nesting site at Leadbetter Point, Washington was closed to human activities (Saul 1982). Similarly, vehicle closure on a portion of Pismo Beach, California, led to an eight-fold increase in the nesting plover population (W. David Shuford, Point Reyes Bird Observatory, in litt., 1989). After beach access was virtually eliminated by the 1989 earthquake, fledging success increased 16 percent at Moss Landing Beach, California (Page 1990).
D. Impact of Predation
Predation by mammalian and avian predators is a major concern at a number of nesting sites. Western snowy plover eggs, chicks, and adults are taken by a variety of avian and mammalian predators. These losses, particularly to avian predators, are exacerbated by human disturbances. Of the many predators, American crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos), ravens (C. corax), and red fox (Vulpes) have had a significantly adverse effect on reproductive success at several colony sites (Wilson-Jacobs and Meslow 1984, Page 1988, John and Jane Warriner, Point Reyes Bird Observatory, in litt., 1989, Page 1990, Stern et al. 1991). Accumulation of trash at beaches attracts these as well as other predators (Stern et al. 1990, Hogan 1991).
E. Effect of Predator Management
At most active breeding sites few measures have been implemented specifically to protect snowy plovers. Artificial measures have been used at several nesting sites to improve snowy plover nesting success. In 1991, the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Service conducted plover nest enclosure studies on National Wildlife Refuge and State property in the Monterey area. Hatching success of plover nests in enclosures was 81 percent as compared to 28 percent for unprotected nests (Richard G. Rayburn, California Department of Parks and Recreation, in litt., 1992, Elaine Harding-Smith, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, pers. comm., 1992). Use of nest enclosures at Coos Bay North Spit resulted in up to 88 percent nesting success, compared to as low as 9 percent success for unprotected nests (Stern et al. 1991, Randy Fisher, in litt., 1992). Nest enclosures continue to be used at the above sites. The Service recently finalized a predator management plan for Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge, which proposes management measures to reduce red fox populations on the Refuge (Parker and Takekawa 1993).
F. Effect of Management Actions
In a few areas in California, including the Marine Corps Base at Camp Pendleton, plovers have benefited somewhat from protective measures taken for the endangered California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni). At Vandenberg Air Force Base in southern California, beaches are closed to all foot and vehicular traffic during the least tern nesting season (Donna Brewer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, pers. comm., 1991). Dogs and cattle have been restricted from some beaches at Point Reyes National Seashore (Gary Page, pers. comm., 1991), and some beaches on Federal land in Oregon have been closed to vehicles to protect plovers and other wildlife (Charles Bruce, pers. comm., 1991). Leadbetter Point in Washington (Fish and Wildlife Service), a 5-acre spoil disposal site in Coos Bay (Bureau of Land Management), and a 25-acre spoil disposal site in Coos Bay (Corps of Engineers) are the only nesting sites where human access has been restricted in the past specifically for plover nesting. In 1993, at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, the Forest Service used temporary fencing and signing to direct beach visitors away from snowy plover nesting areas. At Coos Bay, Oregon, the Corps of Engineers is proposing two projects to create or improve plover nesting habitat using dredged spoils.
American Ornithologists' Union. 1957. The A.O.U. checklist of North American birds. Fifth edition. 168 pp.
Anthony, J.L. 1985. A report on the distribution, numbers and human disturbance of snowy plovers at Damon Point, Washington. Report to the Washington Department of Game. Evergreen State College, Washington. 24 pp.
Brittell, J.D., J.M. Brown, and R.L. Eaton. 1976. Marine shoreline fauna of Washington, Vol. II. Washington Department of Game and Ecology, Olympia, Washington. 341 pp.
Hogan, C. 1991. Snowy plover and human activities at Damon Point, Washington. May 1 to June 10, 1991. Unpubl. report to Washington Department Wildlife, Olympia, Washington. 10 pp.
Jacobs, R.A. 1986. Snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus). Section 4.4.1, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wildlife Resources Management Manual, Technical Report EL-86-54, Portland, Oregon. 25 pp.
Josselyn, M. 1983. The ecology of San Francisco Bay tidal marshes: a community profile. Prepared for the National Coastal Ecosystem Team, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Slidell, Louisiana. 102 pp.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. 1994. Final Draft. Oregon conservation program for the western snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus). Portland, Oregon. 56 pp.
Page, G.W. 1988. Nesting success of snowy plovers in central coastal California in 1988. Report of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Stinson Beach, California. 7 pp.
______ 1990. Nesting success of snowy plovers in central coastal California in 1989 and 1990. Report of the Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Stinson Beach, California. 13 pp.
Page, G.W., F.C. Bidstrup, R.J. Ramer, and L.E. Stenzel. 1986. Distribution of wintering snowy plovers in California and adjacent states. Western Birds 17(4):145-170.
Page, G.W. and L.E. Stenzel (eds.). 1981. The breeding status of the snowy plover in California. Western Birds 12(1):1-40.
Page, G.W., L.E. Stenzel, W.D. Shuford, and C.R. Bruce. 1991. Distribution and abundance of the snowy plover on its western North American breeding grounds. J. Field Ornithol. 62(2):245-255.
Page, G.W., J.S. Warriner, J.C. Warriner and R.M. Halbeisen. 1977. Status of the snowy plover on the northern California coast. Part I: Reproductive timing and success. California Department of Fish and Game Nongame Wildlife Investigations, Sacramento, California. 10 pp.
Parker, M.W. and J.E. Takekawa. 1993. Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge predator management plan and final environmental assessment. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Newark, California. 56 pp.
Saul, S.M. 1982. Clam diggers and snowy plovers. Washington Wildl. 32(1):28-30.
Speth, J.W. 1971. The status of coastal wetlands in southern California. Paper presented at annual meeting Western Section of the Wildlife Society.
Stenzel, L.E., S.C. Peaslee, and G.W. Page. 1981. II. Mainland Coast. Pages 6-16 in Page, G.W. and L.E. Stenzel, (eds.). The breeding status of the snowy plover in California. Western Birds 12(1):1-40.
Stern, M.A., K.A. Kristensen, and J.F. Morawski. 1988. Investigations of snowy plovers at Abert Lake, Lake Co., Oregon. Final Rept. for Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife Nongame Prog. 12 pp.
Stern, M.A., J.S. McIver, and G.A. Rosenberg. 1990. Investigations of the western snowy plover at the Coos Bay North Spit and adjacent sites in Coos and Curry Counties, Oregon, 1990. Report to Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife Nongame Program 33 pp.
Stern, M.A., J.S. McIver, and G.A. Rosenberg. 1991. Nesting and reproductive success of snowy plovers along the south Oregon coast 1991. Report to Oregon Department Fish and Wildlife Nongame Prog. 19 pp.
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1984. Salt marsh harvest mouse and California clapper rail recovery plan. Portland, Oregon. 141 pp.U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1985. Light-footed clapper rail recovery plan. Portland, Oregon. 121 pp.
Warriner, J.S., J.C. Warriner, G.W. Page, and L.E. Stenzel. 1986. Mating system and reproductive success of a small population of polygamous snowy plovers. Wilson Bull. 98(1):15-37.
Washington Department of Wildlife. 1993. Washington State recovery plan for the snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus). Draft. 76 pp.
Widrig, R.S. 1980. Snowy plovers at Leadbetter Point. An opportunity for wildlife management? Prepared for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, Ilwaco, Washington. 14 pp.
Wiedemann, A.M. 1987. The ecology of European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link). A review of the literature. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Nongame Wildlife Program Technical Report #87-1-01. 18 pp.
Wilson, R.A. 1980. Snowy plover nesting ecology on the Oregon coast. M.S. Thesis, Oregon State Univ., Corvallis, Oregon. 41 pp.
Wilson-Jacobs, R. and G.L. Dorsey. 1985. Snowy plover use of Coos Bay north spit, Oregon. Murrelet 66(3):75-81.
Wilson-Jacobs, R. and E.C. Meslow. 1984. Distribution, abundance, and nesting characteristics of snowy plovers on the Oregon coast. Northwest Science 58(1):40-48.
Woolington, M.C. 1985. A preliminary investigation of the effect of recreational use on nesting snowy plovers at Sutton and Siltcoos beach areas, Oregon. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Nongame Program. 37 pp.
**This information was extracted from the Federal Register: March 2, 1995, Page 11768, Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for the Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover; Proposed Rule
For further information contact: Sacramento Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento Field Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Room E-1803, Sacramento, CA 95825-1846, telephone 916/979-2725, facsimile 916/979-2723.
Appendix C: More Interesting Natural History on the
Pacific Coast Population of the Western Snowy Plover
SEASONALITY
The breeding season for western snowy plovers extends from early March to late September, with birds at more southerly locations beginning to nest earlier in the season than birds at more northerly locations. Activities that define the nesting season are courtship, copulation, nest scraping, egg laying, incubation, and rearing of the young to the fledgling stage. The wintering season generally extends roughly from October to February but often overlaps the nesting season with birds arriving on wintering areas as early as midsummer.
MIGRATION BETWEEN BREEDING AND WINTERING SITES
Nesting birds from the Oregon coast have wintered as far south as Monterey Bay on the central coast of California. Birds from Monterey Bay have wintered north to Bandon, Oregon, and south to Guerrero Negro, Baja California (Page et al. 1995a). Birds from San Diego in southern California have wintered north to Vandenberg Air Force Base in Santa Barbara County and south to Scammon's Lagoon, Baja California (Powell et al. 1995, 1996, 1997).
In winter, plovers are found on many of the beaches used for nesting but also on beaches not used for nesting. They also visit manmade salt ponds and estuarine sand and mud flats. In California, the majority of wintering plovers concentrate on sand spits and dune-backed beaches. Some also occur on urban and bluff-backed beaches, which are rarely used for nesting (Page et al. 1986).
WINTERING
In western North America, both the interior and Pacific coast populations winter mainly in coastal areas from southern Washington to Central America (Page et al. 1995a). A small number winter at two locations on the Washington coast, the northernmost being Midway Beach in Pacific County (S. Richardson, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, pers. comm. 1998). Fewer than 100 plovers winter at 9 locations on the Oregon coast, probably as many as 2,500 along the mainland California coast, and hundreds more in each of San Francisco Bay and the Channel Islands (Page et al. 1986). The majority of wintering plovers on the California coast are found from Bodega Bay, Sonoma County, southward (Page et al. 1986). Because of their similarity of appearance, wintering individuals from the interior and Pacific coast populations are virtually indistinguishable.
REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS
The fledging success of snowy plovers varies greatly by location and year. Even plovers nesting on neighboring beach segments may exhibit quite different success in the same year. For example, the percentage of chicks fledged on different beach segments of Monterey Bay in 1997 varied from 11 to 59 percent and averaged 24 percent overall (Page et al. 1997). During the prior 13 years, the percentage of young fledged on Monterey Bay beaches averaged 39 percent (Page et al. 1997). From the former Moss Landing salt ponds (now the Moss Landing Wildlife Area) in Monterey Bay, the fledging rate of chicks
ranged from 13.2 percent to 57.1 percent (mean = 41.4 percent) from 1988 to 1997. In San Diego County, the fledging rate of chicks ranged from 32.6 to 51.4 percent (mean = 41 percent) from 1994 through 1998 (Powell et al. 1997).
Appendix D: The Snowy Plover at Coal Oil Point Reserve
The HABITATS at COPR which are important to the snowy plovers include:
Wrack Zone, Intertidal, Foredunes, Slough or Lagoon Mouth
Wrack Zone
The plovers do most of their resting and a lot of their feeding within the wrack zone —- the area just above the mean high-tide line where kelp is deposited on the sand. This area is easily identified by the piles of kelp and other debris (e.g. old pier pilings, driftwood), and is often located on a slight "shelf" above the moist sand which slopes down toward the water.
Intertidal Zone
At low tide, and when the beach is quiet (with little human activity), snowy plovers often venture out of the wrack zone and down onto the wet sand, or intertidal zone, to feed. Since human activity (walkers, joggers) is often focused on this part of the beach, plovers tend to retreat back to the wrack zone in the late mornings and afternoons, when the beach gets busy.
Foredunes
Snowy Plover breeding sites are often located on beaches which are backed by dunes. The presence of foredunes (dunes closest to the flat sand of the beach) seems to play an important role in site-selection for nesting pairs. Scientists do not know exactly why this is -- because they do not often place their nests directly in the foredunes. Perhaps the dunes provide a source of sand to ensure a wide, expansive beach (another preference for nesting), or perhaps they provide some measure of wind blockage. It could also be that the plovers retreat into the dunes during very high tides and storm events.
Slough Mouth
The snowy plovers at Coal Oil Point Reserve (and at other sites) often seem to congregate around the slough mouth. This is usually the flattest, widest part of the beach, and offers them a clear view of potential predators and disturbances.
With lots of water and sand movement on a daily, lunar, and annual basis, the location of each of these habitat types is constantly in flux (e.g. Winter brings sand loss, breakage of the slough mouth, and dramatic changes in the physical profile of the beach and dunes). The snowy plovers, as well as all of the other animals and plants which use the beach to feed, rest, and reproduce, are adapted to a dynamic life at this intersection of land and sea.
Five Suggestions for Good Teaching by Joseph Cornell:
1) TEACH LESS, AND SHARE MORE It is important for an adult to share their inner self with the child. Only by sharing our deeper thoughts and feelings do we communicate to. and inspire in others, a love for the earth. When we share out own ideas and feelings, it encourages a child to explore respectfully, their own feelings and perceptions.
2) BE RECEPTIVE Receptivity means listening, and being aware. It is one of the most richly rewarding attitudes you can cultivate while working with children. The outdoors brings out a spontaneous enthusiasm in the child that you can skillfully direct toward learning.
3) BE SENSITIVE. Respond to the child’s present mood and feelings. Expand the child’s interests by teaching along the grain of his own curiosity. When you respect his/her thoughts, you will find your time with him flowing easily and happily.
4) FOCUS THE CHILD’S ATTENTION WITHOUT DELAY. Involve everyone as much as you can, by asking questions and pointing out interesting sights and sounds. Some children are not used to watching nature closely, so find things that interest them, and lead them bit by bit into the spirit of keen observation. Let them feel that their feelings are interesting to you, too.
4) LOOK AND EXPERIENCE; TALK LATER. At times nature’s spectacles will seize the child in rapt attention. But even if those special sights are lacking, the child can have an experience of wonder by just watching quite ordinary things with close attention.
5) A SENSE OF JOY SHOULD PERMEATE THE EXPERIENCE. Children are naturally drawn to learning if you can keep the spirit of the occasion happy and enthusiastic. Remember that your own enthusiasm is contagious, and that it is perhaps your greatest asset as a teacher.
SPECIAL TIPS FOR WORKING WITH CHILDREN
Summary of abilities and affinities by age-group:
Eight commandments of good public relations
These are good guidelines for general public relations, and many will apply to your work as a Docent.
(Taken from the Half Moon Bay Plover Volunteer Manual)
1. Speak to people, not at them -- nothing is as nice as a cheerful word of greeting.
2. Smile at people -- it takes 72 muscles to frown, only 14 to smile =)
3. Be friendly and helpful -- if you would have friends, be friendly.
4. Be genuine -- allow your speech and actions to demonstrate your joy in what you are doing
5. Be generous with praise -- and cautious with criticism.
6. Be genuinely interested in people -- you can like almost everyone if you try.
7. Be considerate of the feelings of others -- it will be appreciated.
8. Be thoughtful of the opinions of others -- there are three sides to a controversy; yours, the other person’s, and the right one.
Awaken people’s curiosity. It is enough
to open minds; do not overload them.
Put there just a spark. If there is some
good flammable stuff, it will catch fire.
Anatole France
[The interpreter] is at his best when he
discusses facts so they appeal to the
imagination and to reason, gives flesh
and blood to cold facts, makes life
stories of inanimate objects.
Enos Mills
The purpose of interpretation is to
stimulate the reader or hearer toward a
desire to widen his horizon of interests
and knowledge, and to gain an
understanding of the greater truths that
lie behind any statements of facts.
Freeman Tilden
Interpretation is a seed not a tree.
A bunch of rangers sitting around a
table in the Storer College Room at the
Mather Training Center.
Berm The high, flat area of the beach just above the high-tide line. The plovers can usually be found resting or feeding here. The edge of the berm is marked on Sands Beach by the row of signs asking people to stay out of the roost area.
Biodiversity Full range of variety and variability within and among living organisms, their associations, and habitat-oriented ecological complexes. Term encompasses ecosystems, species, and landscape as well as intraspecific (genetic) levels of diversity (Fiedler and Jan 1992).
Community An association of living organisms having mutual relationships among themselves and their environment and thus functioning, at least to some degree, as an ecological unit (Warner and Hendrix 1984).
Critical Habitat According to US Federal Law, the ecosystems upon which endangered and threatened species exist (Meffe and Carroll 1994).
Disturbance Any relatively discrete event in time that disrupts ecosystem, community, or population structure and changes resources, substrate availability, or the physical environment. Key descriptors are magnitude, frequency, size of area, and dispersion (Fiedler and Jain 1992). In the Endangered Species Act, disturbance means any activity that cause the animal to change its behavior.
Ecology The scientific study of the interaction of organisms with their environment, including both the physical environment and the other organisms that live within it (Purves et al. 1995)
Ecosystem An interacting system of living organisms and their physical environment which is independent of other groups and is self-sustaining, provided it receives radiant energy (Little and Jones 1980).
Or: The organisms of a particular habitat, such as a pond or forest, together with the physical environment in which they live (Purves et al. 1995).
Endangered (species) Wild species with so few individual survivors that the species could soon become extinct in all or most of its natural range (Miller 1990).
Endemic Any localized process or pattern, but usually applied to a highly localized or restrictive geographic distribution of species (Meffe and Carroll 1994).
Or: confined to a particular region, thus often having a comparatively restricted distribution (Purves et al. 1995).
Exclosure This encompasses the roped —off area on the beach (___m), set aside to exclude humans, dogs, and horses while creating a protected roost area for the majority of the plover population at COPR.
Exotic (species) Species that do not originally belong to an area and were introduced by humans directly or by their activity (Fiedler and Jain 1992).
Extinct The termination of a lineage of organisms (Pureves et al. 1995)
Or: A species is considered extinct when no member of the species remains alive anywhere in the world: "The dodo bird is extinct" (Primack 1993).
Habitat The environment in which an organism lives (Purves et al. 1995).
High Tide Line The upper edge of the tide on a beach.
Low Tide Line The lower edge of the tide on a beach.
Invasive Exotic plants not native to an area and which spread quickly and displace native vegetation (Rerg 1995).
Jail House A cement-like, barred cage covered with graffiti, used as a marker for the eastern boundary of the Reserve; located against the cliff along the shore, east of the Reserve entrance.
Management Manipulation of nature for a specific goal (Fiedler and Jain 1992).
Habitat Management Management that ensures the original habitat types are maintained (Primack 1993).
Native Indigenous; not introduced into a geographical area by man (Little and Jones 1980). Local native: native species that are or were present on a particular location.
Natural History. Information about ecology, evolution, and biology in general about a particular species, population or community.
Non-native Refer to invasive or exotic
Population Any group of organisms coexisting at the same time and in the same place capable of interbreeding with one another (Purves et al. 1995).
Resource Something in the environment required by an organism for its maintenance and growth that is consumed in the process of being used (Purves et al. 1995)
Reserve Boundaries For the Docent Program, we use east and west markers on the beach to determine the Reserve's coastline that stretches between them. A 'jailhouse' graffiti art, marks the eastern boundary; its found around the point to the beach entrance, if heading toward I.V. If looking toward Ellwood at the bluff, a large grove of Eucalyptus trees determine the western boundary.
Restoration (ecology) The science and practice of restoring damaged or degraded ecosystems (Purves et al. 1995).
Or: Return of an ecosystem to a close approximation of its condition prior to disturbance (National Resource Council 1995).
Slough A body of water or lagoon composed of channels which run through various land types which create dynamic features for different habitats and wildlife;has fluctuating water table due to seasonal weather, containing freshwater runoff as well as seawater; may flood into the ocean; different components of the lagoon may be permanently flooded, dry, or a combination of both simultaneously.
Species The basic lower unit of classification, consisting of a population or series of populations of closely related and similar organisms. The more narrowly defined "biological species" consists of individuals capable of interbreeding freely with each other but not with members of other species (Purves et al. 1995).
Threatened (species) Wild species that is still abundant in natural range but is likely to become endangered because of declining population numbers.
Wrack Zone Area of the shore parallel to the ocean and contains large amounts of seaweed and kelp.
Resources
This list contains books, websites, and a video for further educational enrichment. Some of the websites are updated regularly, offering an excellent way to keep current with our local situation at Sand’s Beach, COPR.</