Lead Institution(s): U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Focal Species: All Sea Ducks, Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola), Barrow’s Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica), Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus), Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis), Common Eider (Somateria mollissima), King Eider (Somateria spectabilis), Spectacled Eider (Somateria fischeri), Steller’s Eider (Polysticta stelleri), Common Merganser (Mergus merganser), Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus), Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator), Black Scoter (Melanitta americana), Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), White-winged Scoter (Melanitta delgandi)
Project Description: During aerial surveys, waterfowl are difficult to identify to species and to accurately estimate flock size. SDJV supported the development of several tools to assist aerial observers with both species identification and count estimation, including a book and a website for video-based training and testing.
Related Publications:
Bowman, T. D. 2014. Aerial Observer’s Guide to North American Waterfowl. USFWS publication FW6003. Denver, CO, USA
Aerial Observer Training and Testing Resources: USFWS Website