Assessment of the Pacific Black Scoter Population: Population Size, Distribution, and Links among Populations: An Integrated Approach

Project Number: 38

Year Funded: 2007

Lead Institution(s): US Fish and Wildlife Service

Project Lead: Tim Bowman

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Collaborator(s): Jason Schamber (USGS), Dan Esler (SFU), Dan Rosenberg (ADFG), Paul Flint (USGS), Bob Stehn (USFWS), John Pearce (USGS), Lee Ann Anyres (USFWS), Sean Boyd (CWS), Fred Broerman (USFWS), Paul Liedberg (USFWS), Daryle Lons (USFWS), Tina Moran (USFWS), Bob Platte (USFWS), Diane Sanzone (NPS), Kristine Sowl (USFWS), Ken Richardson (USFWS), Paul Anderson (USFWS), Sandy Talbot (USGS), Denny Zwiefelhofer (USFWS)

Location: Alaska

Focal Species: Black Scoter (Melanitta americana)

Project Description: Numbers of Pacific black scoters appear to have declined greatly, although survey data are imprecise and hinder detailed analyses of population trend. Little is known about the biology of black scoters, including delineation of subpopulations and links among annual cycle stages. This study integrates three elements (population surveys, satellite telemetry, and genetics) into a multi-pronged approach to determine population status and trends and provide the information necessary to make scientifically sound management decisions. These elements are complementary and benefit from being conducted simultaneously.