Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, Summer 1989 by Maine State Library

~AINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE

SUMMER 1989

$3.50

A Keeper!

Photo by Bill Cross

.MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE Governor John R. McKeman, Jr.

SUMMER 1989

VOL. 31, NO. 2

Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife William J. Vail, Commissioner Norman E. Trask, Deputy Commissioner Frederick B. Hurley, Jr., Director, Bureau of Resource Management Peter C. Brazier, Director, Bureau of Admlnistratioe Service Larry S. Cummings, Director, Bureau of Warden Service

Advisory Council F. Dale Speed, Princeton, Chairman Alanson B. Noble, Otisfield, Vice Chairman F. Paul Frinsko, Portland Nathan Cohen, Eastport Carroll York, West Forks John Crabtree, Warren William Sylvester, Clayton Lake Dr. Ogden Small, Caribou

Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine W. Thomas Shoener, Editor Thomas J. Chamberlain, Managing Editor Thomas L. Carbone, Photo Editor Dale S. Clark, Circulation All photographs In this Issue were made by the Public Information Division unless otherwise indicated. MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE (ISSN 0360-005X) Is published quarterly by the Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 284 State Street, Station 41, Augusta, Maine 04330, under Appropriation 4550. Subscription rate: $14.00 per year. No stamps, please. Second class postage paid at Augusta, Maine and at additional mailing offices. e Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 1989. Permission to reprint text material Is granted, provided proper credit is given to the author and to MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE. Clearance must be obtained from artists, photographers, and non-staff authors to reproduce credited work. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Send both old and new addresses to Circulation Section, MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine, 284 State St., Sta. #41, Augusta ME 04333. Please allow six weeks for changes to take effect. POSTMASTER: Please send address cl1anges to Circulation Section, MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE, 284 State St., Sta. #41, Augusta, Maine 04333. The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife receives federal funds from the U.S. Department of the Interior. Accordingly, all department programs and activities must be operated free from discrimination with regard to race, color, national origin , age, or handicap. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against should write to The Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240.

Features Preserving A Precious Heritage The North American Waterfowl Management Plan - a look at an innovative international partnership to save wetlands

Jewels Of The Coast

by Stephen

w. Spencer 7

A summary of what can be experienced along the Island Trail

The 1989 Maine Duck Stamp Contest by Tom Shoener A first look at the winning paintings

Falling Water

by Jacki Bragg

A photo essay on some of Maine's beautiful waterfalls

Hooks

12 16

by Tom Chamberlain

How and when to use, attach, remove, etc. this critical angling hardware

Up On The Roof by Vincent Marzilli It appears that nighthawks really like being "over our heads"

Deparbnents KID-BITS

FROM THE FLY TYING BENCH: The Woodchuck Caddis FISH AND WILDLIFE BRIEFS

23 30

The Front Cover Abandoned mill site on Mount Blue Stream, Avon. Photo by Jacki Bragg. See related photo story beginning on page t 6.

PRESERVING A PRECIOUS HERITAGE

In addition to their importance to wildlife, freshwater wetlands are valuable for storing and purifying fresh water for use by people.

Black ducks are given special consideration by the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

Drought and dwindling nesting habitat have taken a heavy toll of ducks and other wildlife. The future of some species may rest on the success of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.

Wtlands

are a priceless

national resource. Fresh and salt water marshes, beaches, open water, and associated upland ecosystems support a chain of life ranging from commercially valuable fish and shellfish to major populations of mammals, waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey. Wetlands are important to people, too. Coastal marshes stabilize shorelines and protect upland areÂˇa s from erosion. Freshwater wetlands purify our water supplies and protect our cities from floods. Wetlands are also prime recreation areas - for fishing, hunting, trapping, bird watching, nature study and photography. Outdoor recreation based on wetlands-dependent fish and wildlife resources has a value of many billions of dollars in the United States alone. Half of the endangered species along the Atlantic Coast depend on wetland habitats for their suivival - species as diverse as roseate terns and bald eagles. Despite these and other values, more than 500,000 acres of wetlands along the Atlantic Coast have been lost since the 1950s. In the United States as a whole, more than half of our wetlands - 100 million acres have been lost. Although federal and state laws were enacted in the 1970s to protect coastal marshes, development and population growth on adjacent upland habitats has reduced the quality and productivity of many wetlands.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Though now largely protected by state ownership as the Scarborough Marsh Wildlife Management Area, Maine's largest saltwater marsh shows signs of earlier encroachment and drainage attempts in this 1960s aerial view.

Wetlands loss is heavily implicated in the alarming decline in the populations of certain waterfowl species, especially ducks. In ten years, mallard populations declined from an average of 8. 7 million to 5.5 million, blue-winged teal from 5.3 million to 3.8 million. Since the 1970s, the population of pintails plunged from an average of 6.3 million to 2.6 million last year. Habitat loss is at least partly to blame for black ducks steadily losing numbers over a 30-year period; though severe restrictions on hunting is now Common goldeneye ducks and the endangered bald eagle - examples of game and nongame wildlife that inhabit wetlands.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Fishing, hunting, bird watching, and nature study are among the many recreational uses of wetlands.

believed to have halted the decline, the population of black ducks is still precariously low. Recognizing the need to address the problems of wetlands and wetlands-dependent wildlife in a coordinated fashion, the United States and Canada signed the North American Waterfowl Management Plan in 1986. Today, that historic and far-reaching agreement has become an innovative international partnership in wildlife conservation. .,, The Plan, with its 15-year horizon to 2000, establishes specific objectives to restore duck populations to the levels of the 1970s. It also targets critical waterfowl breeding, staging and wintering areas in both countries. While the Plan thus far has involved Canada and the U.S., both countries are pursuing a working agreement with Mexico.

l:e

North American Waterfowl Management Plan focuses on six regions in the U.S. and four in Canada that are most important to waterfowl. The Atlantic Coast. from Maine to South Carolina, is one of those regions. Joint Ventures coalitions of state and federal agencies, conservation groups and landowners - are working in each region to achieve the Plan's goals. 4

The Atlantic Coast Joint Venture seeks to protect and manage priority wetland habitats for migration, wintering, and production of waterfowl, with special consideration given to black ducks. Doing this will benefit the entire chain of life found in wetlands, from aquatic invertebrates to mammals and birds of prey. Joint venture participants seek to protect more than 880,000 acres of wetlands and upland buffer habitats through the year 2000. An additional 170,000 acres of state and federal wetlands will be enhanced. Habitat protection includes conservation easements and cooperative management agreements with landowners, as well as land acquisition itself. Conservation groups, including The Nature Conservancy, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and Ducks Unlimited, are working with federal and state wildlife agencies to protect priority habitats. Enhancement of existing publicly-owned wetlands will also contribute to joint venture goals. Habitat improvement projects have been identified on national wildlife refuges and state-managed areas. In addition, the U.S. Forest Service is enhancing waterfowl habitats on National Forests, and the Department of Defense will improve

wetland habitats on military bases. A number of states along the Atlantic Coast have identified high-priority wetland areas for protection or enhancement and are now preparing project plans for specific sites. The future of some species of ducks and other wildlife that are heavily dependent on wetlands is in jeopardy. The North American Waterfowl Management Plan offers a major opportunity to restore their populations.

aine has been called a model for the way the Plan should work. Here, the Plan has galvanized local, state, federal and private conservation groups into a truly cooperative and innovative effort to preserve the state's most valuable wild places. Working under the name Maine Wetlands Protection Coalition , groups like the Land

for Maine's Future Board and the Maine Coast Heritage Trust are working with local govemments and land trusts, state agencies, national conservation groups, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make sure wetlands throughout the state are protected - thus contributing to overall goals identified under the Plan.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

The catalyst for this activity is Gary Donovan, director of the

Wildlife Division of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, who said: "What makes this effort so exciting is that we've never before had everyone working on conservation in the state sit down and meet together. We've combined our talents, pooled our information, and magnified our effectiveness in wetlands conservation." One of the first things needed by the Maine Wetlands Protection Coalition was for someone to pull together information available on wildlife resources and land ownership patterns. Bill Zinni of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Northeast Regional Office was asked to fill this role. He first met with

biologists from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and other conservation groups to identify valuable wildlife habitat. The state's Natural Heritage Program provided data on the occurrence of rare or unusual plants, invertebrates, and other wildlife. The Coalition has targeted 80,000 acres of land in Maine for protection and another 50,000 acres of existing wetland areas for enhancement. Almost 10,000 acres have already been protected with a significant acquisition near Old Town in Penobscot County. Valuable to black ducks, eagles, and other wildlife, Sunkhaze Meadows is the state's largest expanse of bog, marsh and floodplain forest. It will soon be the state's newest

National Wildlife Refuge, thanks to the Maine Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, which provided assistance to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the purchase of the property.

ow can you help? None of the projects envisioned by the North American Waterfowl Plan, the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture, or the Maine Wetlands Protection Coalition can succeed with agencies, groups or individuals acting alone. What is needed is strong commitment, creativity, and hard work by regional and local governments, private organizations, businesses, and individual citizens - hunters and nonhunters alike. Ultimate success in attaining the Plan's

Ht>w Much·Will It Cost?

: r[:~i[/ht:~~,~i!tffgQr~: ~ttl~c=:~~:e~::~~!~~~=~t::t:~~wl )Mah.~g:~·rnenf

Plari'\ s·:estimated at $1.5 billion . The Plan calls for .<·:) f: foOi9'. WtcS"he)f)erfi~ Canada, 75 percent of which is sched/{01~d.lc{com.e' from U."S: sources. Canada has agreed to match all :/{Q:·$./ tqforib'tit10:n~dor :projects located there. Funds will come :](ff~frH.]:fflv?.t~'.i ~c!¢(~:oyrces and ~tate and federal governments. IE::i'Yel;'°conservatio_nists and Plan participants )/h~v~'.: ~e~rf deligh~ed to hear President George Bush express his :)f~Gppqft)¥ '~etlands protection. And in Congress, Senate i{Mii$hh( Lead~F G_ eo:rg·e Mitchell recently submitted legislation \tYrhi/Nohi{Amedcdn·Wetlands Conservation Act- that wou Id t:Nm,V.~~Kfo~e_ r ii__furi'.~s· wet1ands ·protection . :·::;:;-::::// ~}eh\ Mifoheil'lhill°calls for the federal dollars to match funds j?~ir§:~r~v~fate' ancf'private conservation organizations to restore,

:t.:?:::ffA(ihlfed~·f~I

iar

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

enhance or purchase wetlands, with the money coming from three sources: •interest monies, about $1 O million annually, accumulating from excise taxes on sporting arms, ammunition and archery equipment deposited in the Pittman-Robertson (P-R) Fund . These interest monies historically have gone to the General Treasury rather than to wildlife. Sen. Mitchell proposes to use the interest monies temporarily for the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Then, once the goals and objectives of the Plan are accomplished, the interest earned would be added to the P-R Fund for apportionment directly to the states for other approved wildlife programs. •fines paid by violators of the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, about $1 million annually. •appropriations made by Congress.

irnpo,r tant goals will rest heavily with individuals who get involved. You can help by: • joining and supporting local. state and national organizaµons involved with wetlands protection and other habitat issues. • becoming involved when political support is needed, such as with funding issues (see related article). Write to your elected representatives in Washington and in your state capital. Attend public hearings. Speak out for the Plan! • buying state and federal duck stamps, whether or not you hvnt waterfowl. The money buys wetlands. • buying the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, to help preserve Canadian wetlands. • educating your children and other young people in your community about respecting and conserving wildlife and wildlife habitat. • Landowners, who manage the great majority of wetland habitats on the Nprth American continent, are also encouraged to become involved by taking advantage of a variety of state, federal, and private programs to help conserve wetlands. Information and assistance are available from state agricultural extension agents, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For more information on the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture, contact Dick Dyer or Hans Stuart, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, • Newton Corner, MA 02158.

For More Information Publications Wetlands and Coastal Areas. Environmental Protection Agency, Public Affairs, 401 M St., S. W., Washington, D.C. 20460. Free. Introduction to wetland areas and the benefits they provide. America's Wetlands: Our Vital Link Between Land and Water. Environmental Protection Agency, Public Affairs, 401 M St., S. W., Washington, D.C. 20460. Free. A good primer that gives an overview of wetlands and their functions. America's Endangered Wetlands. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Publication Unit, Washington, D.C. 20240. Free. Colorful brochure illustrating the many values of wetlands. Opens up into a beautiful poster of a pintail duck. Wetlands Values and Management. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Publication Unit. Washington, D.C. 20240. Free. Brief discussion of wetlands management techniques.

Videos "Ducks Under Siege." "Wood Stork: Barometer of the Everglades." "Messages from the Birds." Video cassettes of National Audubon Society's Television Specials, first broadcast on SuperStation WTBS. These specials are available in video stores nationwide, or they can be ordered through Audubon Television, 801 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E., Suite 301, Washington, D.C. 20003.

Information Kits Wetlands Adoption Kit. Izaak Walton League of America. 1401 Wilson Blvd., Level 8, Arlington, VA 22209. $2.00 per kit. Packet of information materials, including a number of brochures and special publications, that gives a comprehensive overview of wetlands benefits, the government agencies responsible for their management, as well as how citizens can get involved in setting up a Wetlands Watch to conserve their local wetlands. Protecting America's Wetlands: An Action Agenda. World Wildlife Fund/The Conservation Foundation, 1250 Twenty-Fourth St., N. W., Washington, D.C. 20037. Free.The final report of the National Wetlands Policy Forum, to develop sound wetlands protection policies.

Teaching Guides Nature Scope: Wading Into Wetlands. National Wildlife Federation, 1400 16th St., N. W., Washington, D.C. 20036-2266. $6 each (ask for NWF stock #75025). 65-page guide for elementary school teachers . Lesson plans, projects, information on wetlands, and bibliography included. Our National Wetland Heritage: A Protection Guidebook. Dr. Jon A. Kus/er. $14. Environmental Law Institute, 1616 P St., N. W., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20036. A detailed guide that covers wetlands from every angle, with appendices, comprehensive tables, and figures that illustrate the material. A good reference for local governments, conservation organizations, landowners, and local wetlands activists.

Newsletters

This article was compiled by the staff of MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE from information provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Wildlife Management Institute, the Maine Chapter of The Nature Conservancy, the National Audubon Society and the Maine Wetlands Protection Coalition.

National Wetlands Newsletter. Environmental Law Institute. 1616 P St., N. W., Suite 200, Washington, D.C. 20036. $48 (6 issues; bulk order and student discounts available). Upto-date information on the status of wetlands and related legislation .

Wetlands in Maine For information on Maine wetlands and laws concerning their protection, contact the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, State House Station 17, Augusta, ME 04333. Phone 1-800-452-1942.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Sunset, Penobscot Bay. Photo by the author.

The

Maine Bureau of Public Lands holds title to some 3,000 of Maine's 4,500 coastal islands. While most of the bureau islands are nothing more than ledges which may or may not be submerged at extreme high tides,

there are several which have particular wildlife or recreation value. Management of islands of special value to wildlife has largely been transferred to either The author is a recreation specialist with the Bureau of Public Lands, Maine Department of Conservation.

the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife or conservation organizations such as The Nature Conservancy. The majority of these islands are nesting and rearing areas for sea birds and waterfowl. A study to evaluate the recreational potential of coastal

Penobscot Bay :: Matfnfcus Oâ&#x20AC;˘ Monhegan

Atlantic Ocean Casco Bay

Looking seaward down Harpswell Sound from Strawberry Creek Island. Photo by the author.

islands was conducted by the Island Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to the wise management of Maine's coastal island resource, under contract with the Bureau and resulted in the initial identification of 42 islands appropriate for such use. Further evaluation of these sites with MDIFW incorporating known information on important coastal wildlife areas was made to insure that human activities would not impact important wildlife values. The study identified 40 islands appropriate for recreation; they were listed in a brochure entitled "Your Islands on the Coast" and were posted with signs identifying them as available for recreational use. The signs also state rules for safe use and protection of the fragile island ecology. The Bureau of Public Lands manages lands under its jurisdiction, including islands, for multiple use guided by a "domi8

nant use" principle. In the case of island management, this means that management of the most sensitive resource is "dominant" over less sensitive uses. When a pair of bald eagles nest on an island previously used for recreation, it then becomes offlimits for visitors. The Institute explored a route from Portland to Jonesport, and found it such an exciting opportunity that they proposed designation of a Maine Island Trail. During further discussions and field work with bureau staff, the Institute further proposed that this island trail be managed and monitored by a volunteer stewardship organization, to be known as the Maine Island Trail Association. This proposal made a great deal of sense, especially considering the remote nature of these islands and the bureau's small staff. The idea provided the opportunity to accomplish effective management and monitoring while forming a liaison with a primary user group. This network has already shown its value in communicating the island closures due to the eagle nesting mentioned earlier.

in April of 1988. The Association's goals are: 1) To delineate a route between Portland and Jonesport. 2) To work with the BPL in guiding and monitoring use of BPL islands. 3) To care for all property, public and private, made available for trail use. 4) To educate its members and the user public in lowimpact use of islands and other properties, and to encourage non-members by example to adhere to the same ethical approach.

small financial grant from the Bureau, a larger grant from L.L. Bean, Inc., some membership dues, and a lot of creative initiative and effort has allowed the Maine Island Trail Association to commence its first season Looking northward from Crow Island. Note the squall headed directly for us, prompting a reminder about the drastic and rapid weather changes which frequently occur on the Maine coast. Photo by the author.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

A "real Maine day" as seen from a "real Maine island." Island Institute photo.

Not all Maine coastal islands are open to the weather. Sheltered small boat landing sites such as this one can be found all along the trail-one need only look! Photo by the author.

5) To foster a sense of safe use in all persons using the trail. 6) To encourage members to assist all users of the trail and any others who may find themselves in trouble on the water. 7) To respect private property and to follow rules of use on lands protected by easements, land trusts, etc. 8) To protect wildlife by respecting non-use rules on i~andsand~ndsscla~deas refuges and breeding grounds. 9) To support efforts to improve public access to the water. Private island owners face the same sorts of management difficulties as public managers, but a number of private owners are nontheless willing to share their islands with responsible users. The Association has been able to secure the use of a number of private islands in exchange for the types of management and monitoring services provided through the Association on public islands. During its first year, with minimal recruiting efforts, the Association registered 400 new members, far exceeding expectations. In carrying out Association goals during its first season,

members have made hundreds of observations, collected hundreds of pounds of trash, (mostly seaborne plastic) and explored a number of public and private islands that could potentially be added to the trail. The Bureau of Public Lands will continue to work with the Island Trail Association to provide recreational opportunities along the coast of Maine. â&#x20AC;˘

Morning - in a typical Penobscot Bay spruce and open meadow island campsite. This particular island is off-limits to visitors since it is colonized by eagles this year. Photo by the author.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

IF YOU CARE, LEAVE THEM THERE!! Each spring, new generations of wild animals and birds born in our backyards and local woodlands are often discovered and "rescued" by well-meaning people. Most of the time, these young creatures have not been abandoned; wild parents just can't hire babysitters! If you stumble upon a hidden nest or den, leave it there! Mom will make every effort to come back, even if the youngsters have been slightly disturbed. If you are worried that a wildling may truly be orphaned, observe it from a distance for a few hours, and try to keep your dog or cat away from the area. You may see one or both of the parents come back to care for and protect their babies. Call a local game warden, biologist, humane society or wildlife rehabilitator for information about the life history of the creature you may be concerned about, before you handle or otherwise disturb it. No matter how well we know how to care for our own kind, we are no substitute for a mother robin, raccoon, or rabbit. Most youngsters are learning survival from their parents. For them, the dangers of life in the wild are a natural part of ecology. Some will not survive, but those that learn well and are the most physically fit will usually live the longest. Almost all wild birds, and all mammals are protected under state and federal laws, and it is illegal to even pick one up without the appropriate permits! These laws are designed to protect animals from being kidnapped from the wild, and people from receiving a serious bite or even a contagious disease! Wild critters do not make good pets! Although the youngsters are cute and adorable when babies, they grow into mature adults with wild instincts, making them unmanageable and undesirable as household pets. So remember, if you care for Maine's wildlife, the best thing you can do is leave them there!

CHECK OUT YOUR GENERAL WILDLIFE KNOWLEDGE!! (may be more than one answer) 1. If a baby bird falls out of the nest, you should: a. leave it on the ground b. bring it in the house and put it in a bird cage c. put it back in the nest d. let your cat out 2. If your neighbor cuts down a big dead tree, and discovers a nest of baby raccoons, he should: a. bring them inside and feed them milk b. take them to your local humane society or vet c. let his dog out to see them d. check to see if any are injured and if not, put them back in the section of the tree with their nest in it and leave it as close to the original tree site as possible 10

Whitetailed deer fawn. Photo by Bill Cross Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Letters should be sent to: Lisa Kane, KID-BITS Editor MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine 284 State Street, Station #41 Augusta, Maine 04333

5. Walking through some deep woods in the middle of the day, you see a young fawn curled up in the ferns, with no sign of the mother anywhere in sight. You: a. chase the fawn until you can catch it, and take it home since it is obvious the doe has abandoned it b. leave the fawn alone, and call a local game warden for advice when you get to a phone c. take a picture and move a few hundred yards away to settle down and wait-you want to see the mother come back to care for the baby d. pick the fawn up and start to carry it home, but decide it's too heavy after carrying it for one-half hour, so put it in a new hiding place

Baby raccoon. Photo by Bill Cross

3. You are mowing your lawn for the first time this year, and the grass is really thick. You look down, and you've just uncovered a nest of tiny rabbits. You should: a. pick them up and move them into the woods about one-half mile b. cover the nest back up and avoid mowing around that area for a few weeks c. bring them inside and try to give them some milk d. show all your friends what you've found 4. You are driving along a highway and see a fox that has been hit by a car. Her two small kits are huddling close to the body. You should: a. bring them home and feed them dog food b. call a game warden for help c. using heavy gloves, pick them up and bring them to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator d. leave them in the road Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Young saw-whet owls. Photo by Bill Cross

Answers on page 32 11

Topsham Woman Wins 1989 Duck Stamp Contest by Tom Shoener, Contest Coordinator Jeannine Staples' beautiful oil painting of a pair of common goldeneye ducks has been judged the winner of the 1989 Maine Migratory Waterfowl Stamp art contest, held annually by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The Topsham woman's work was chosen from 52 paintings of common goldeneyes - better known as "whistlers" - submitted by Maine resident artists. A color reproduction of the painting will appear on the state duck stamp, required of Maine waterfowlers during the 1989-90 hunting season in addition to a federal duck stamp and a state hunting license. A panel of five judges made the selection. They were: Rick Alley, Islesford, winner of the 1988 Maine duck stamp contest; Peter Corbin, Millbrook, NY, professional painter well-known nationally for his sporting art; Denny Denham, state chairman of Ducks Unlimited; Bill Krohn, leader of the Maine Cooperative Fisheries and Wildlife Research Unit; and Bill Vail, commissioner of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Technical advisor to the judging panel was Randy Eggenberger, vice-president and general manager of WILD WINGS, Inc., Lake City, MN. Jeannine is a self-taught artist who had specialized in New England landscapes and seascapes for 15 years. "It has just been in the last three years that I have been sketching, studying and photographing wildlife in their natural habitat, and then incorporating these in my paintings. Living near the Maine coast, Merrymeeting Bay, and endless lakes, streams and woods has enabled me to frequent these areas and study their beauty and diversity in changing seasons," she said. The mood and composition for her duck stamp contest entry were done from a photograph she took on Christmas day, 1988, from the shores of Merrymeeting Bay. "Unfortunately, the ducks weren't there," she said, "I had to add them later." That's easier said than done, as Jeannine said she had to redo the drake's feathers "four or five times." A bookkeeper for her husband's business, Jeannine took the day off to view the judging. "It

was so intense ... so nerve wracking. My knees were shaking ... " Robert Goodier of East Machias was runner-up in the contest. Honorable Mention awards went to D. Crosby Brown of Lincoln, Johanna Hoffman of Waterboro and Lynn Boyett Koski of Lincolnville. The winner, runner-up and honorable mention paintings will be on display through October at galleries and other public places throughout the state. The winner of Maine's duck stamp art contest receives a cash award of $1,000, a sheet of stamps reproduced from his or her painting and 25 artist proof prints of the original painting. The artist also retains ownership of the winning entry. In addition to stamps bought by Maine duck hunters, the $2.50 state duck stamp is also sought by collectors nationally. The 1989 stamp will be available September 1, either in mint condition or signed by the artist. The Fish and Wildlife Department will also reproduce the winning painting as a limited edition fine art print, which will be numbered and signed by the artist and available for purchase this summer. Maine's duck stamp program was initiated by the legislature in 1984. Revenues from stamp and print sales are dedicated to the acquisition and management of waterfowl habitat. Stamp designs from 1984 to 1987 were commissioned to nationally prominent artists. They featured black ducks (1984), common eiders (1985). wood ducks (1986), and buffieheads (1987). The 1988 stamp, featuring green-winged teal, was the first one designed by a Maine artist, Rick Alley, and determined by a contest.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

PUBLIC DISPLAY SCHEDULE OF THE TOP FIVE ENTRIES IN THE 1989 MAINE DUCK STAMP CONTEST Augusta - The Framer's Gallery, Bangor St. - May 1-22 Kennebunkport - Kennedy Studios Gallery, Rt. 35 - May 23-June 6 Falmouth - Maine Audubon Society - June 8-27 Lewiston - Gilbert Gallery, Main St. - June 29-July 13 Camden - Duck Trap Bay Trading Company, Bayview St. - July 15-Aug. 3 Portland - Downeast Wildlife Art Show, University of Southern Maine - Aug. 5-6 Freeport - L.L. Bean, retail store - Aug. 7-Sept. 4 Augusta - Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, State St. - Sept. 6-29 Camden - Invitational Wildlife Art Exhibit - Bayview Gallery - Oct. 1-31 Readers wishing to be notified about the availability of the 1989 Maine duck stamps and limited edition prints may contact the Public Information Division, Maine Fish and Wildlife Dept., Station 41, Augusta, ME 04333. Phone (207) 289-2871.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Runner-up

Runner-up honors in the 1989 Maine duck stamp competition went to Robert E. Goodier of East Machias. A native of Wilmington, Delaware, and a graduate of the Museum College of Art in Philadelphia, he has resided in East Machias for the past five years. In addition to wildlife art, his work includes land and seascapes, portraits, marine and historic subjects. He feels that in addition to artistic merit, his paintings must be accurate to the smallest detail, which entails "countless hours spent on research in the field, museums and libraries and with collectors, historians and experts in various fields." Goodier' s paintings are in many public, private and corporate collections and have been in shows in a number of states.

Honorable Mention

Lincoln resident D. Crosby Brown began to paint seriously in 1972, exploring varying themes - seascapes, landscapes, animals, and birds as they occurred in their natural settings. He now devotes much of his time to wildlife art. Following his first one-man show in Maine, in 1974, his reputation grew and has now reached national proportions. His paintings have been featured in AUDUBON Magazine, and on the cover of DOWN EAST Magazine, as well as on the National Audubon Society's 1977.Christmas card. The Delorme Publishing Company, Freeport, has featured his paintings on a calendar and on a series of animal posters identifying the common birds, animals and fishes of the northeastern United States. Many of his works are in the collections of major corporations as well as private investors and connoisseurs.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Honorable Mention

A self-taught artist and amateur naturalist, Johanna Hoffman specializes in natural history and children's illustration. Much of the Waterboro resident's work centers around commissioned portraits of wildlife and pets, or illustration and design for publication. Her work is used by a local card company, as well as a children's book publisher in southern Maine. She has illustrated three books and is currently finishing a fourth. Johanna's recent honors include Honorable Mention in last year's Maine duck stamp competition and several awards in the 1988 and 1989 Wildlife and Sporting Art Show at the State of Maine Sportsman's Show.

Main e Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Honorable Mention

Lynn Boyett Koski, a Lincolnville resident, earned her art degree from the University of Maine in 1980 and then began a career as a freelance artist and art teacher. In 1982, her art turned to her life-long fascination with wildlife. Primarily a sculptor, she began recreating wildfowl from clay, "capturing a brief moment in their lives." Lynn 's work is featured in galleries in Maine, Massachusetts and Minnesota. Her entry in last year's Maine duck stamp contest also received Honorable Mention honors. Other recent awards include Second Place and Third Place for her sculptures of a Carolina Wren and a Screech Owl in the 1989 Wildlife and Sporting Art Show at the State of Maine Sportsman's Show.

Avon

Falling

The Forks Farmington 16

Maine Fish and Wildlife -

Summer 1989

Rangeley

Farmington

Water

Photos by Jacki Bragg

Avon Grafton Notch Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Rangeley

Farmington 18

Grafton Notch Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Grafton Notch

Rangeley Grafton Notch Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Some Pointed Remarks About by Tom Chamberlain

t is

IS not a treatise on fishhooks. There are so many different types of hooks, each one seemingly .,d esigned for a specific (very specific) purpose, that to try to explain the difference between a # 14 2X G.P.F.P.T.U.B.E. and a #8 R.P.S.B.S.P.T.D.T.E. would be ... well, you figure it out. This is intended instead to be an introduction to the use of fish hooks, which are probably the most important items in your tackle box. I have tried to include, very basically, how to choose the proper hook, how to fasten it to your line, how to keep it in good operating condition, and (if it should unfortunately be necessary) how to remove it when it becomes imbedded somewhere other than in a fish's jaw. The illustrations accompanying this article should give the

reader at least a fair picture of the number of variables present in hook design. But when you set out to select a hook for a specific purpose, you needn't have memorized all the types of points, eyes, shanks, etc., Just keep some basics in mind. First, how big is the species of fish you're after? A common mistake is to start with a hook too large for the fish you are seeking - so remember, large fish can often be caught with small hooks, but small fish are seldom caught with large hooks. Keep it as small as practical. As a general guide, use #6 or #8 for perch, anywhere from #4 to #10 for trout, #6 to #/0 for bass, and anywhere from #2 to #6 for pickerel. Now I know some fishermen will argue with that, but remember, I said this is a general guide. If you want to really find out what to use on

bass, ask a successful fisherman, etc. The hardness of the fish's mouth is another thing to keep in mind. Basically, the shorter shank, the deeper the hook will bite. So, short-shanked hooks are suitable for soft-mouthed fish such as trout and salmon, while long-shanked hooks, which penetrate more easily, are better for hard-mouthed species such as bass.

benrn········:···... .

:~:

• :•

ca0 .:

••.

£ .~ ,···C :

• • • • • • • • • • •

.• ;i5 Q.

gap

The author is managing editor of MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine, and appreciates the opportunity to write something for a change!

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

EDDOWN

~ IU~~LLEYE

0-EDHOOK

l ~ '

RNEDUP T~ALL EYE

~DSHANK BENT BACK

'---

What type of bait are you using? This is basically a matter of common sense, for a larger bait usually works better on a larger hook. But after all, larger baits are generally used in seeking larger fish so the greater hook size shouldn't interfere. In selecting a hook for dry-fly fishing, keep the weight to a minimum. A shorter shank will help here. Remember, the fly must float. Also, choose hooks with turned-up eyes, because turned-down eyes can interfere with hooking ability due to the short distance from eye to barb. So you've chosen what you think is the right hook for the

~HOOK

job. How do you fasten it onto your line? There are four types of knots which an angler should know: 1) to attach hooks or lures to line or leader; 2) to tie leader to line; 3) for loops in the middle of line or leader; and 4) to form end loops. In each category, there are several knots which will serve the purpose. I have shown only one of each here, but much reference material is available if you're interested. There are only a few things you can do to lengthen the life of a fishhook. Let's face it - this

GNEDUP

TAPERED EYE

"Â° ~EDDOWN TAPERED EYE

item has a hard life. It is made of steel; hence, it will rust and wear. It is extremely sharp; hence it will not hold a point forever. And it is made of fairly light material for the stress it is given; hence, it may straighten or break. If an angler takes only a few minutes to wipe surface moisture from a hook before putting it away, it will obviously prolong its resistance to rust. A dull hook, by the same token, may be sharpened with light touches of an emery cloth or sharpening stone, although even the best hooks can take sharpening only a few times.

- - - - - - T A K E IT OUT!!

1. Loop about four feet of line around hook and wrap around index finger, as shown. 2. With patient's hand on firm surface, extend loop in line with shank's axis as an "all clear" trial run. 3. Depress shank with thumb and forefinger of free hand, as shown. 4. Pull!! A smooth, rapid tug, allowing shank to pull out from between thumb and forefinger, will spin hook back along path of entry. It works! 21

When sharpening, minimum is the word to remember. The point is delicate and needs only a few touches to hone it - don't destroy the shape of the point, and stay away from the barb. It the hook straightens or breaks, it is obviously time for a new one. And remember, the work you are demanding from the little fell ow is tough - it can't last forever. As a parting shot, it is important to keep in mind that fish-

hooks are dangerous. They can easily become embedded past the barb in your finger of elsewhere in your anatomy - when they do, it is painful! And it can be difficult to remove them without proper procedure. On page 21 is a brief description of one way to remove a fishhook, quickly and painlessly. Neither this nor any other method of hook removal should be attempted, however, if the hook is deeply embedded near

the eye or other extremely delicate and sensitive parts of the body. If this is the case, cover the area with a loose bandage and get to a doctor! Well, it is probably obvious to some serious anglers reading this that I am not an expert on fishhooks. Nor do I claim to be. But they are interesting - the variations are endless - and this article just might help someone who is beginning with the exciting pastime of angling.

FISHERMEN'S KNOTS

1. Line through eye, five times around, back through end loop, down through big loop, pull long line - lure's on!

2. Each end five times around other line, ends back through center in opposite directions, pull lines - lines joined!

3. Make loop, hold at "A", twist loop around "A" five times, push loop through center twist, hold loop in teeth, pull ends tight - midline loop!

4. Make 8" loop, double back, five times around, back through end loop, pull loop and both ends - end loop! 22

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

WOODCHUCK ~ t h e Fly Tying Bench THE CADDIS by Eddie Reif Photos by Jacki Bragg The caddis is an often overlooked insect which is extremely important for Maine fly fishermen. Most Maine ponds and streams host many different species; on many of our major rivers like the Penobscot and the Kennebec, caddisflies are a major food source for trout and landlocked salmon. Caddises are closely related to moths and butterflies and belong to the order Trichoptera (Tricho = "hair", ptera = "wing"). There are approximately 900 species in North America, ranging in size from 3mm to 40mm (e.g. Great Orange Sedge). They are widely distributed on the continent, second only to Diptera (midges) in number. Unlike Mayflies, caddisflies undergo a complete metamorphosis during their life cycle, going through four different states- egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae are soft-bodied and segmented, and generally resemble a meal worm or grub, with the abdominal area a lighter hue and the head dark brown or black. Some construct cases in which to live. They do this by secreting a sticky substance from glands in the mouth with which they glue together grains of sand, sticks, or other detritus. Other larvae like those in the family Hydropsychidae are net-spinners and build delicate net funnels between rocks on the river bottom. Periodically, they crawl out around the net to feed on organic

matter and microscopic organisms that the current has swept into it. Some larvae, like those of the bright green Rhyacophila, live without any protective case, crawling around in search of prey. The larvae reach maturity in six months to a year, then enter the pupal stage, developing the adult form inside the pupal shell. That accomplished, the pupa raises to the surface, the shuck breaks, and the adult emerges. Caddis hatches may occur at any time of the day. Sometimes they occur sporadically, a few adults hatching at a time, while at other times the adults literally cover everything in sight. Many of the best hatches typically take place at sundown. The adult caddis has two pairs of wings which, when at rest. are held in a tent-like configuration. Upon hatching, the adult either flies immediately away or flutters and skitters over the water surface before flying ofI. ABOUT THE PATTERN

The Woodchuck Cad dis is an excellent high floating imitation of the adult caddis. The woodchuck wing keeps it floating high and dry, making it an extremely good searching pattern on turbulent water. The fact that caddises tend toward sporadic hatching activity during the day, and that previously hatched adults occasionally end up on the water, either accidentally or to lay eggs, makes a caddis dry fly like this one a good choice, when there is nothing in particular hatching. While matching the hatch can be extremely important with caddises, the angler need only be concerned with size and color. There are simply too many species of caddis for most of us to become familiar with all of them. The solution for the average angler is to tie his woodchuck caddis in body colors and sizes that match the naturals on his home waters. Since caddis adults tend to be more active than Mayflies when they hatch, the angler should experiment with traditional dead-drift as well as skittering-fluttering types of presentations. When imitating the fluttering egg-laying adult, it may be useful to tie the pattern with an additional hackle palmered over the body for added buoyancy. THE PATTERN

Secure thread near hook eye, wind to rear and then back toward the eye, stopping about two-thirds forward (as illustrated). Dub synthetic or fur on the thread, a little at a time, until a nice even roll of fur tightly covers the thread.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

HOOK: Mustad 94840, sizes 8 and 16 THREAD: 6/0 pre-waxed nylon, dark brown BODY: Fly-rite poly, fur, or other dubbing-orange (or other color) WING: Woodchuck guard hairs HACKLE: Mixed grizzly and brown hackle 23

Cut a fairly full clump of woodchuck guard hairs off the skin. Clean the soft underfur from the base 9f the comb hairs by pulling it out manually or with an underfur comb. Put a drop of lacquer on the base of the clump and tie it on the forward one-third of the hook. Tie wing approximately one-third longer than shank length.

3 4

Lacquer the head. Mouche est fini!

Form body by winding dubbed thread to the rear of the hook and back. Stop at same point at which you started the body.

Select two nearly identical dry fly hackles, one grizzly, one brown, strip off the waste at the base of each, and tie down both together, tips pointing to the rear of the fly. Attach hackle pliers to tip of one hackle, cock it forward and up, and proceed to wind it clockwise three times around shank over the wing base. Tie off and clip excess. Now do the same thing with the other hackle, taking care not to crush the first hackle. Tie off after forming small head with the thread.

5 Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

There's room enough for two . .

Âˇup On The Roof

by Vincent Marzilli Photos by the author

As the afternoon sunshine casts ever-increasing shadows across the University of Maine campus, a male nighthawk stirs restlessly from his perch in the tall elm tree. The bird "peents" once-a nasal sound similar to that made by woodcocks-then a second time, and as the sun sets slowly below the horizon, he stretches long, tapered wings and flies smoothly into the grayness of early evening. Peenting constantly, the nighthawk climbs the night sky, rapidly fluttering left and right, rising higher above the female sitting on the flat-topped roof. He hovers momentarily, facing the light spring breeze, then suddenly plummets toward earth, wings held in a sharp "V" above his body. The descent carries the male closer to the female and the roof, and at a distance that seems dangerously close, the male pulls his outstretched wings down and circles sharply back into the sky. Air rushes through feathers, making a sound similar to the "twang" of a stretched rubber band being snapped. This is the "boom" of the nighthawk heard so often over city buildings. The booming activity continues for several minutes until a second male appears. The courting male "tailchases" this intruder across an imaginary line that forms . the boundary between their territories, but the intruder persists. Turning, he then chases the courting male back into his own territory. The tailchasing continues for several more rounds, until both birds, apparently content with the established boundary, resume courtship behavior within their own realms. As if to demonstrate his dominance, the male returns to boom once more above his mate before gliding back and forth in smooth curves toward the roof, eventually landing lightly near the female. She wobbles restlessly, then stands to reveal two darkly mottled eggs. Slowly she stretches one leg behind her body, then another, then raises both wings above her body, quickly flaps twice, and ruffles all her feathers before folding the wings back into place. She walks to within several inches of the male, her head bobbing slightly up and down, up and down, while both birds utter gurgling and chuckling sounds from deep within their throats. They settle next to each other, almost touching feathers, and rest briefly in silence. Suddenly, with several rapid wingbeats, the female rises above the roof and over the parapet, followed closely by the male, and the pair ventures out to search the night air for insects.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Female nighthawk on flat-topped roof, a favorite haunt.

I n 1869, shortly after the introduction of flat. gravel-surfaced roofs in North America, common nighthawks (Chordeiles minor) were observed nesting on flat-topped warehouse roofs in Philadelphia. Their adaptation to roof nesting quickly expanded across North America- to Boston in 1870, Montreal in 1876, and Cleveland in 1879-and has become so extensive that common nighthawks are now considered common urban nesters throughout their range, although they still maintain viable populations as ground-nesters. Common nighthawks arrive in central Maine during the last two weeks in May, and immediately go about the business of establishing territories and courtship. They can be found in meadowlands, burnt and clear-cut forests, and in most residential and industrial areas.

The author spent the summers of 1986 and 1987 studying roof-nesting common nighthawks at the University of Maine at Orono. He is author of a book, Return of the Nighthawks, illustrated by his wife, Roanne. His research, under a grant from the Maine Endangered and Nongame Wildlife Fund, reveals the delicate nature of these common rooftop nesters and raises concern over the loss of their rooftop habitat due to m0dem roofing practices.

As members of the family Caprimulgidae and relatives of the whippoorwill, nighthawks are crepuscular (active at twilight). and so are primarily observed feeding in the evening and at night. although they are occasionally seen during the day. particularly when they congregate in flocks during migration. They are identified by a conspicuous brownish or white throat patch, easily detected when the birds are in flight, as well as two white spots on the outer part of the wings. Males are further identified by a subterminal white band across the tail-feathers, absent in females. Overall. females are more brownish in color, males more gray. During daylight hours. males can be found perched on the horizontal branches of trees. usually in close proximity to an existing or prospective nesting site. Unlike most "perching" birds. nighthawks roost in a position parallel to the branches. This lessens the likelihood of detection. especially necessary since the birds arrive in many areas prior to the time when leaves are fully grown. Occasionally. the male will leave the perch during the day. especially when an intruder threatens the nearby nest. or when low temperatures the evening before prevented a sufficient collection of flying insects and daytime hunting becomes necessary to meet energy demands. The latter example occurs primarily during the first week or two after arrival at their summer nesting grounds. when nighttime temperatures may hover around the freezing mark. Througho~ut the day. female nighthawks rest on the flat-topped roofs. generally in the protection of a southern corner where they may or may not eventually attempt to nest. Both females and males remain motionless for long periods of time during the day. their eyes closed to mere slits. The females are easily approached at this time, but are also very easily overlooked since they blend so well with the roof surface and oiier little cause for detection. It is not fully understood whether females select the nesting locations and males consequently boom above them, or males influence the selection by booming over likely locations. Perhaps it is a combination of these ideas; regardless. shortly after courtship behavior begins, one or two eggs are laid directly on the roof surface. The color of the eggs is apparently determined in part by the color of the substrate, and may range from a spotted light green to a much darker green with brown and gray mottling. Nighthawk eggs are slightly tapered at one end and are approximately 1 to 1 1 /2 times the size of a robin's egg. Eggs can be found as early as the last week in May and as late as the latter part of July. but most are laid in June. Because the eggs are laid directly on the gravel surface, and since the female often leaves the nest directly from the incubating position, the eggs

A banded female defends her nest site prior to egg-laying.

are frequently disturbed, and the actual nest location may vary by several inches from day to day. Nighthawk eggs require 18 or 19 days of incubation. Soon after the chicks are born. the female removes the shells from the nesting area. Since the inner linings are white, they may attract unwelcome guests. and the removal of shells probably increases the chances of nesting success. Although nighthawk chicks are born with their eyes open and are capable of mobility shortly after hatching, they are imperfectly endothermic and require protection from extremes of cold and heat. To provide protection. females will hold their wings out during periods of high temperatures to provide shade for the young, and during cold periods will drop their wings and hold the chicks between wings and body for warmth. Nighthawk chicks are apparently not fed during the day. but shortly after sunset the male. after performing varying numbers of booms above the nest Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

has left to forage the night sky once again. The chicks receive several feedings in close succession. and then regularly throughout the evening, although feedings are spaced further apart in time as the evening progresses. As the young mature, they may stray a considerable distance from the nest site between feedings while the adults are away hunting. In such situations. the adults will occasionally refuse immediate feeding, but instead apparently prefer to lead the young closer to the security of the nest site before providing food. At four to five weeks of age, nighthawk young take their first flight and leave the security of the rooftop. On unsteady wings. they descend to the ground. where they will remain until their flying strength and ability enable them to return to the rooftop or to roosts in trees. Juvenile nighthawks spend the day on the ground in much the same manner as adults, on roofs and in trees; they remain motionless, crouched on a grassy spot. under the overhanging branches of a shrub, or resting on a gravelly or soil-surfaced location. Juveniles are "weaned" by the adults; approximately 10 to 14 days after leaving the roof, they are able to capture food independently and possess total control of their flight. In early September. common nighthawks leave the Orono area and head south for their wintering grounds 1n Central America and northern South America.

The

Incubating female on nest, defending with "open mouth."

site and nearby buildings, searches the night sky for insects and brings them to the nest site. The male flies directly to the nest at first, but after the young are several days old, he stands several feet away and waits for the young to approach, perhaps in an effort to provide the opportunity for the young to "exercise." Feeding is done directly from the adults' mouths to the young; if two chicks are present they each get a share of the evening's first offering. Subsequent feedings may see the chicks fed in the same manner, or alternately. The female usually leaves the roof shortly after the arrival of the male's first evening visit. Unlike he more showy male, she slips quietly over the rooftop and disappears into the darkness. Females are seldom observed flying above the rooftop level during the nesting period. She reappears in approximately 20 minutes. and proceeds to feed the young, who by now are usually alone on the roof; the male Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

adaptation to rooftop nesting provides nighthawks with a nesting environment relatively safe from the dangers presented by the constant traffic from dogs. cats. and humans present in heavily settled areas. In addition. the gravel surface of flat roofs (the "gravel" is actually smooth rock 1.2- tol.5-cm. in diameter, embedded in and laid loosely on the tar surface) provides an ideal nesting substrate, and is similar to the surface sought for by many ground-nesting nighthawks. The gray. brown. black. and white colorings of the birds blend in marvelously well with the varied colors of the stones. and since nighthawks do not "build" a nest, the rough surface created by the gravel serves to prevent the eggs from rolling. Of the 14 nests discovered at the University of Maine during my study. 13 were located on flattopped roofs. The remaining nest was situated on a gravelly spot on the ground in an inside comer of a building. Ten of the 13 rooftop nests occurred on roofs that were surfaced with tar and gravel and were completely or partially enclosed with parapets that were at least 15 cm. high. Of the five nests that raised young to the fledgling stage. four were located on roofs entirely enclosed with parapets, and the fifth on a roof that was partially enclosed. 27

A gravel patch placed on a roof. Two young nighthawks fledged from this patch. Inset, a pair of nighthawk eggs on a roof site. What you see constitutes a nest, at least to a nighthawk!

The presence of a parapet, in conjunction with the gravel surface, appears to be a major contributing factor in nighthawk nesting success. The parapet protects incubating females and developing young from the intense rays of the summer sun, provides shelter from driving rains and wind, and prevents the young from falling over the roof edge. Parapets may also reduce the likelihood of predation, as aerial predators are less likely to detect the silhouette of birds that nest in close proximity to ...these structures. It would appear that nighthawks utilizing such rooftop nesting sites have selected a haven from the perils of everyday existence, but closer examination reveals that this is not so. Furthermore, technological advances in roof surfacing may create an uncertain future for nighthawks nesting on roofs. As safe as rooftop nesting may appear, there are many dangers that nighthawks face on a daily basis. Natural predators include ravens, crows, gulls, hawks and owls, and raccoons and squirrels. Females, however, are extremely hesitant to leave nestlings or eggs, and even nest sites prior to the days of egg-laying, and will exhibit behavior that effectively deters such intruders. The first means of defense utilized by nighthawks is to remain motionless, relying on protective coloration to escape detection. When threatened, incubating and brooding females approached closely by an intruder will generally exhibit one of three typical responses. First, they will raise their folded wings away from their bodies, then gradually raise them above their bodies while extending them to the full length. This behavior exposes the two large white spots located on the upper half of 28

the wings, and also makes the birds seem much larger, and thereby more threatening than they actually are. One theoty suggests that these white spots have evolved to represent eyes, and this may further intimidate intruders. Other females may dispense with the wing-raising behavior altogether. Instead, they will begin rocking gently from side to side, ruffiing their feathers and raising their folded wings only slightly away from their bodies. The wobbling movement is accompanied by cackling and gurgling sounds. If the intrusion persists, the female will then open her mouth widely, exposing a vast expanse of vety red mouth lining. Other females have been known to remain motionless, except for a widening of the eyes, until approached to a vety close distance, and then fly quickly from the nest, landing a short distance away. Males are seldom seen on the rooftop during the day, and choose to quickly leave the roof when approached while resting there in the evening, or during feeding sessions with the young. They will, however, boom over intruders, and fly to within several feet of the annoyance, peenting vigorously throughout the "attack." Those nighthawks that survive to the fledgling stage may encounter additional dangers on the ground. They are susceptible to predation by cats, dogs, skunks, and foxes, as well as traffic from bicycles, automobiles, motorbikes, and pedestrians. Adult nighthawks attempt to protect juveniles by feigning injuty. Dragging a wing along the ground, they attempt to lead the would-be predator away from the young, only to fly off after the intruder is a considerable distance from the young. Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Nighthawks nesting on rooftops are also subjected to dangers caused by a regular flow of traffic from workers. Most flat-topped roofs are checked annually for leaks. In some places, this involves a systematic and thorough testing of the roof surface by workers using sophisticated machinery. Because building ventilation and roof drainage systems usually end or begin on the roof surface, service usually requires rooftop activity. The associated rooftop traffic by humans increases the likelihood that nighthawk nests will be disturbed, or even destroyed. In addition to the above mentioned threats by humans and natural predators, perhaps the greatest threat to roof-top nesting Nighthawks comes from an advancing roof technology; the replacement of traditional tar and gravel roof surfaces with sheets of rubber.

S mee 1981, the total surface area of flat, gravelsurfaced roofs at the University of Maine has been significantly reduced because of the replacement of gravel surfaces with rubber. The National Roofing Contractors Association predicted that 28 percent of all new and replacement roofs nationwide in 1988 would be surfaced with rubber. Little is known regarding the effects of such changes on roofnesting nighthawks. What is known is that rubber roofs, such as the ones installed at the University of Maine, are easier to maintain than the tar and gravel type. Therefore they should be more economical in the long term, a factor that owners, architect_s, and contractors must consider very seriously. Simple obseivations also reveal that rubber roofs fail to provide a suitable nesting habitat for common nighthawks. The solid covered surface, regardless of color, contrasts sharply with the multi-colored birds. The smooth surface fails to resist egg-roll, and eggs laid on such a surface would roll toward a roof drain or another low spot on the roof where water collects during a rain. In direct sunlight, the black rubber surfaces reach extremely high temperatures. To compare the surface temperatures of gravel versus rubber under similar conditions, simulated roof surfaces were exposed to natural, clear-sky weather conditions on a July day in 1986. A comparison of the average temperatures during the 24-hour period revealed a significant difference (P<0.05) between the temperature on the simulated gravel surface (46.1 Â°C.) and the simulated rubber surface (56.3Â°C.). The heat becomes so intense on the black rubber surfaces that it can be felt through the rubber soles of workboots after 10 or 15 minutes of contact. Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Nighthawk chick hatched on gravel placed in the corner of a flat, rubber-surfaced roof. The chick is about seven days old .

One of the objectives of my study was to determine if rubber roofs, despite the obvious problems, could be altered to provide nighthawk nesting habitat. An experiment was conductea in which triangular patches of gravel approximately three square meters in area were placed in the corners of seven rubber roofs enclosed by parapets, and a circular patch of equal size near each roof center. Of the 14 patches available over the two year study, three corner patches were readily used as nesting sites. Of these, two were successful in raising young to the fledgling stage. All three nests were located in southern corners on roofs entirely enclosed with parapets and were within 30 cm. of the parapet. No centrally placed gravel patches were utilized, providing further evidence that roofnesting nighthawks in this study preferred nesting sites in close proximity to parapets. Although providing nest sites in this manner may enhance available nesting habitat, the longterm success of nighthawks using such sites requires further study. It is conceivable that predators such as the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) or the herring gull (Larus argentatus) may be drawn to the conspicuous gravel patches. Alternatively, if a large number of gravel patches are available, predators may not often associate such patches with food, and increased predation may not result. Only long-term monitoring of nighthawks nesting on such nest sites can provide answers to questions relative to the continued presence of the nighthawk as a common rooftop nester in urban areas. â&#x20AC;˘ 29

FISH AND WILDLIFE BRIEFS Deer Season Preview

1988 Warden

of the Year

Terrence A. "Terry" Hunter of Ashland has been selected as Maine's Warden of the Year for 1988. Hunter was presented the award by Governor John R. McKernan, Jr., at the annual Maine Warden Service Association meeting, held in March at the Penobscot County Conservation Club. Hunter, 36, a district game warden since March 1977, was selected by a panel of five fell ow officers - all previous Wardens of the Year- and one civilian member. The selection is made from a list of nominees submitted by Warden Service field personnel. Prior to his assignment to the Ashland district, Hunter had been a district game warden at Allagash and Masardis. He is a native of Macwahoc, and graduated from Lee Academy in 1970. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1970 to 1974. In his nomination to the selection committee, Hunter's immediate supervisor, Sgt. David Allen, noted that "Warden Hunter's perseverance and continuing hard work in the name of fish and wildlife conservation is at the highest level year after year. Terry's diligence has become his trademark. "He patrols the Masardis District, a large wilderness tract of

land containing 18 townships. Its size and remoteness would be a discouraging burden to many. Terry, however, possesses the discipline to look past the summer-time dust and blackflies, the snow and cold winter winds, and the ever-present log trucks to continually enforce the law and serve the public in a most professional manner. He also takes time out to work with the Ashland Elementary School students by offering a fish and game minicourse every year. "Warden Hunter is very highly respected by his fellow wardens and the other law enforcement officers in the central Aroostook area. He is also held in high esteem by the general public. His position of respect is one that is hard-earned. "His woods skills are matched by his excellent courtroom demeanor and his ability to present and successfully prosecute complex fish and game cases. "I make this nomination not for any one event or incident during the past year but because of Terry's excellent overall performance in the law enforcement and non-law enforcement aspects of warden work. This high caliber of work continues year after year." Hunter is married to the former Elaine Osgood of Kingman. They have three children: Beth 12, Christi 10, and Daren 3.

The outlook for deer hunting in Maine this fall is as bright as it's been in a number of years, thanks in equal measure to kind winters and to the controlled harvest of does under the any-deer permit system, now in its fourth year. Hunters have until August 15 to apply for a 1989 any-deer permit if they want the choice of taking either a buck or a doe this fall. The department plans to issue about 55,800 permits this year, an increase of about 10,000 over 1988. Antlerless deer may be taken only by hunters holding the permits, and only in the district selected when applying. Any licensed hunter may take a deer with antlers at least 3Âˇ inches long anywhere in the state. Last winter was easier than average for deer in the southern half of the state. In the north, deer yarded-up later than normal, and restrictive snow conditions were of shorter duration than normal. The number of any-deer permits to be issued this year reflects highe~ deer populations but is sufficiently conservative in each of the 17 deer management districts to result in a slow to moderate increase in the herd. The 1989 firearms hunting seasons opens with resident-only Saturday, October 28, and continuing until November 25, to be followed by the 6-day special muzzleloader season. The special archery season runs from October 2 through October 27. Bow hunters may take a deer of either sex. The limit on deer remains one per hunter per year, regardless of its sex or when it was taken.

Androscoggin Site Acquired A tract of land along the Androscoggin River rich in local colonial tradition and heritage has become the latest purchase made with the department's Land Acquisition Fund. Commissioner William Vail said the 4 77 acre parcel, which is in the town of Livermore and is known locally as Tolly Wolly, was purchased for $242,000 from J.M.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Properties of Lewiston, Michael Gotto of Turner, and James A Peny of Framingham, Mass. Regional Wildlife Biologist Eugene Dumont noted that "the Tolly Wolly area is the largest known and documented deer yard in Livermore and represents a significant amount of 'open space' providing habitat not only for wintering deer, but also a wide range of wildlife, including moose, ruffed grouse, woodcock, snowshoe hare, a variety of furbearers and many nongame species. A delegation of local residents had presented signed petitions and a proposal that the department acquire the property, which was on the verge of being subdivided into a housing development. Local residents have long valued the Tolly Wolly area for hunting, fishing, trapping, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and other outdoor recreation, which Commissioner Vail said will continue under state ownership. According to historical town records, the name Tolly Wolly (also Tolla Wolla) was given to the area by a tribe of American Indians called the Roccomeco, and referred to "small broken falls or rapids on the river." Indians, perhaps attracted to the area by salmon runs and good hunting, reportedly continued to reside at Tolly Wolly and coexist peacefully for many years with the first white settlers who moved into the area in the 18th century.

Togue Spawning Area Constructed It took two years of waiting for safe ice conditions, but now there's a new man-made spawning area for lake trout at Craig Pond in East Orland. In order to preserve a threatened naturally-reproducing population of lake trout (also known in Maine as togue), the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has created a new underwater spawning reef. According to Rick Jordan, assistant regional fisheries biologist from Machias, who coordinated the project, 60 cubic yards of 4 to 12inch boulders weighing approximately 90 tons were trucked over 23 inches of ice and deposited close to shore adjacent to the lake's historical togue spawning area in early March. When the ice left the pond in April, the boulders sank to the bottom in water from 1 to 6 feet deep.

Jordan says Craig Pond serves as the water supply for the Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery. Increased water use by the hatchery in recent years has lowered the lake level and left the former spawning area "high and dry" and therefore unusable. He notes that because lake trout in Craig Pond have apparently not spawned for at least 10 years, there was a possibility of this population disappearing unless useable spawning habitat was restored or created. "We have carried out every possible fishery management option to save this population," Jordan said. "We closed the lake to the taking of lake trout; we trapnetted intensively in 1986 to capture Craig Pond strain lake trout to provide progeny for a 1988 stocking of juveniles; and now we have built a 60-foot by 23-foot spawning area that will never be de-watered-here is an example of a fisheries problem with an excellent chance of having a successful solution." Jordan further notes that a permit was obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection prior to doing the work. He reports that the contractor, Robert Wardwell and Sons of Bucksport, used trucks to haul from 2. 5 to 5 cubic yards of boulders per load to the site.

Tight Restrictions to Continue on Ducks Duck hunters should be prepared for continuation of the reduced seasons and bag limits they had to contend with last year. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced tentative plans to keep tight restrictions in place for the upcoming hunting season. Preliminary results of waterfowl harvest studies are indicating that duck production was very poor last year, as predicted. Analysis of wings submitted by hunters is indicating that production of most popular species was down last year, reflecting the effects of drought throughout much of North America.

The current waterfowl situation underscores the importance of longterm efforts to conserve and enhance waterfowl habitat through the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (see article on the NAWMP on page 2). This major, long-term effort between the U.S. and Canada to preserve and restore key waterfowl habitats is particularly important now because widespread drought has accelerated habitat loss, particularly in Canada. Several years of good weather conditions will be required before remaining habitat areas can recover, revegetate and produce ducks. Because a large harvest on depressed duck populations is not in the best interest of the affected species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is tentatively proposing to continue restrictive hunting regulations in 1989. However, the final proposals from the federal waterfowl managers will deferred until results of last year's harvest surveys and this year's nesting and production surveys become available later this summer.

Record Year for~Trophy Bucks Maine deer hunters broke the state's all-time record for trophy bucks during the 1988 hunting season. And prospects for 1989 look equally promising. Figures compiled by the department's Wildlife Division indicate that 4,600 buck deer taken last fall were trophy-aged - that is, 4 1 /2 years or older. A record 967 bucks qualified for the Maine Sportsman's

The department's bear research project had some important help last winter in the person of Governor John McKernan. Maine's chief executive tended to the cubs while wildlife biologists changed mom's radio collar, then helped tuck the three bears back in their den, in Alton.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

Wildlife and Fish are Important to Americans Results of the 1985 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and WildlifeAssociated Recreation are now available to the public. The survey is the seventh in the series of comprehensive, nationwide surveys of wildlifeassociated recreation conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service every five years since 1955. The latest survey concludes that in 1985: • 46.4 million, or more than one in four, adult Americans fished. • 16. 7 million, or more than one in 10, adult Americans hunted. • 109.6 million, or more than half of all adult Americans, actively participated in nonconsumptive activities such as feeding, observing or photographing wildlife. The surveys are used widely by wildlife managers to help them more appropriately meet increased or changing demands on fish and wildlife resources. They are also widely used by the recreation equipment industry, conservation organizations and others interested in outdoor recreation. Copies of the survey may be ordered by writing: Publications Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Room 130, Arlington, VA 22201 or by phoning (703) 358-1711. Of related interest, a intensive study in Maine is attempting to determine the total value of the state's fish and wildlife, including the economic impact of both game and non-game species. Incomplete results of just the consumptive uses - fishing, hunting and trapping - indicate that participants in these sports may contribute a half billion dollars annually to the state's economy. The final report is due this winter. Biggest Bucks in Maine Club with a dressed weight of 200 pounds or more. That number of trophy bucks represents 3.8 percent of the total 1988 deer kill of 28,056 according to Wildlife Biologist Gerald Lavigne, who notes that the ratio of large bucks in the deer population remains the same after six years of buck-only restrictions as it was during the previous years when either-sex hunting was permitted. He reports that 35 percent of adult , bucks in the total harvest were 1 1 /2 years old, and 25 percent were 4 1 /2 years or over. Lavigne says this is an indication of a dramatic increase in the numCorrections

Observant readers of the Spring 1989 issue picked us up on a few points: Some wondered why the listing of big fish entered in The One That Didn't Get Away Club contained a black crappie t hat weighed two pounds when it was noted that the minimum qualifying weight was three pounds. This one's easy: the qualifying weight for black crappies was lowered to two pounds last year; we had the old standard listed. Others wondered who wrote the article about the Maine Warden Service entitled MWhat You Told Us." Telling who wrote it is easy: Game Warden Charles S. Allen IV; explaining why his name wasn't on the article would be a little more difficult! And, on the bottom of pages 17 and 20, the placement of the second and third pictures from the left was reversed.

ber of bucks in the population. "Had the buck numbers decreased there would have been a corresponding reduction of trophy-aged males and an increase in youngsters. "The adult buck harvest has remained age-stable," Lavigne added, "an indication that the increase in large bucks is due to an increased general deer population, not excessive hunting of bucks." Lavigne also reports that the 1988 buck harvest was 40 percent higher than during the last five years of either-sex hunting. The buck kill during that period was 12,000 annually. In 1988, 17,139 adult bucks, 6,797 adult does and 4, 120 fawns were recorded in the total harvest.

And what about prospects for the 1989 season? "We're predicting that we'll see about the same proportion of trophy bucks in 1989 - we expect 1989 will be an excellent trophy buck year. This was reinforced by the mild winter. Deer experienced excellent survival and had good nutrition available due to lack of snow depth."

New Fee for Club Patches There is now a $3 charge for patches issued for the various trophy clubs operated by The Maine Sportsman. Clubs affected by this new policy include: The Biggest Bucks in Maine Club, Maine Black Bear Club, Maine Bowhunters Club, The One That Didn't Get Away Club (freshwater fish), Maine Tacklebusters Club (saltwater fish) and the Maine Moose Club (new in 1989). Traditionally, anyone taking trophy game or fish in Maine which met established weight minimums was awarded a free Jacket patch and membership card signifying the accomplishment by the Yarmouthbased monthly publication. In explaining why a $3 fee has been instituted, General Manager Harry Vanderweide said, "While we want to continue to operate these wonderful sportsman recognition programs, they have become expensive because of both inflation and improved hunting and fishing conditions in Maine. A good example is the Biggest Bucks in Maine Club. We are now paying twice as much for those gold and red jacket patches as we did two years ago because of supplier price increases, while the number of new members in the club has climbed from an average of about 600 per year to almost 1,000 in 1989.

- - - - - KID-BITS ANSWERS----1.

c. Since birds have no sense of smell, you can pick up a baby bird and return it to its nest.

2. d. If given the opportunity, the mother raccoon will come back when everything quiets down, and care for, or even move, her family.

3. b. Mother rabbits normally feed their young just twice a day, in the early morning and around dusk. They are faithful parents, and will return even if the area has been disturbed. 4. b. Game wardens are always happy to help in a situation like this, so it is good to call for advice. c. If you know how to handle wildlife, and are aware that you may get a bite, it is generally OK to take critters in this situation to a licensed rehabilitator. 5. b. Again, game wardens are there to answer your questions about wildlife. c. If you can photograph the fawn without disturbing it, that's fine. Doe deer return intermittantly to care for their young, and are very protective of their fawns.

Maine Fish and Wildlife - Summer 1989

1989 LICENSE FEES RESIDENT $15.00 H nting (16 and older) 15.00 Fishing (16 and older) Combination Hunting and Fishing ( 6 and older) 28.00 Supersport 38.00 8.00 S all Game Hunting J nior Hunting (10 to 15 years inclusive) 3.00 Combination Fishing and 28.00 Archery Huntin9 (16 and older) Serviceman (resident) Combination 15.00 Hunting and Fishing 15.00 Archery Hunting (16 and older) 7.00 uzzle-loading (16 and older) 29.00 Trapping (16 and older) 40.00 Guide (18 and older)

NONRESIDENT CITIZEN Big Game Hunting ( 10 and older) Season Fishing (16 and older) Junior Season Fishing (12 to 15 years inclusive) 5-day Fishing 7-day Fishing 3-day fishing 1-day Fishing Combination Hunting and Fishing ( 16 and older) Small Game Hunting (16 and older) Junior Small Game Hunting (10 to 15 years inclusive) Archery Hunting (16 and older) Muzzle-loading (16 and older) Guide (18 and older) Trapping (any age)

77.00 42.00 5.00 30.00 26.00 17.00 5.00 107.00 47.00 23.00 47.00 25.00 142.00 304.00

NOTES • Above prices do not include $1 agent fee • All applicants for an adult firearms hunting license must show proof of having previously held an adult license to hunt w ith firearms, or having successfu lly completed an approved hunter safety course .

• A small game lfcense permits the hunting of all species except deer, bear, turkey, moose, raccoon, and bobcat.

VandeIWeide said application methods and qualifications for the arious clubs will remain the same, with game wardens, regional biologists, charter boat captains and other suitable persons having the application forms. Supplies of the new cards indicating a fee is now charged will be sent out as soon as possible. The only difference is that persons qualifying for membership will now have to send in $3 with the application in order to receive the patch. "The $3 we are charging doesn't even cover the cost of processing the membership and issuing a patch," said VandeIWeide. "However, by getting the recipients to pay part of the cost we will be able to continue this fine tradition indefinitely. Those qualifying for the clubs will still be able to receive only one patch, and in order to receive a replacement patch, they still must send us the old patch first. It is our intention to keep these clubs as an exclusive form of recognition for Maine's sportsmen."

The trophy clubs were started by the state as a promotional effort and became very popular with residents as well as visiting hunters and fishermen. The Maine Sportsman assumed custody of the program in the mid-1970s, when the clubs were threatened with extinction after the sponsoring state agency was abolished.

Traveling Coyote Bagged at East Pittston When local farmer Arthur Holzinger of the Beach Hill Road shot a coyote on his property April 6 it created a minor mystery: The animal was wearing a radio collar and ear tag, but no coyotes were known to have been collared in the area. Holzinger brought the collared coyote to the attention of Game Warden Brian Worth of Dresden, who brought the coyote to the department's Augusta Regional Headquarters where it was examined by Wildlife Biologist Gene Dumont. At first, there was speculation the animal might have been a remnant from a coyote study conducted in Washington County about five years ago by Daniel Harrison, who was then a graduate student at the University of Maine at Orono. However, Dumont recognized that the animal was relatively young, and that its collar had been on only a few months. A check with the University of Maine's Wildlife Department re-

vealed that Harrison, now with a doctorate degree, is back at the Orono facility and is conducting a new study of coyotes on Mount Desert Island for the National Park Service. Harrison said he is investigating the dispersal of coyote pups from the island, where their movement is confined by the surrounding sea. The Park Service is concerned about the impact of young coyotes that remain on the island on the population of red foxes. The coyote killed at East Pittston was one of four coyote pups livecaptured and radio-collared on Mount Desert Island as part of the study project last year. It was captured and fitted with its collar last October, in the area between Bar Harbor and Otter Cliffs on the east side of the island, according to Harrison. He said the young coyote was one of two that made it off the island. It was monitored leaving the island in ' December, when it presumably crossed over the ice to reach the mainland. It was last located near Castine in January. Most interesting about this young coyote's dispersal, Harrison says, is that it somehow had to cross the lower Penobscot River, which never freezes over completely, in order to reach East Pittston. Harrison says such dispersal and wide travel of young coyotes is not unusual. Coyotes from his previous study in eastern Maine eventually were tracked to New Hampshire, Vermont, and the provinces of Quebec and New Brunswick.

More than 100 municipalities and some might be based on Maine's great organizations throughout the state have outdoor heritage. Ideas related to fish already signed up to participate and wildlife could include creation in Governor McKernan's .. .·,· ~ . .· •" . .• . . of a nature trail, a stream "Ma·1ne Street '90" ·· I(· ·· • · •• · • · · or . /:*· .....-~;.. ..,. :•_:·. ~-; • · • ·· · c Iean-up, protecting program - a 1990 _·; ..t."" ..~*: * ··• . • .*..· :..•·•·*.¥-·· .. ~-• · ,,._ .. improving a wetland ' statewide celebration of .;· ·:: ./~ ·-.-~.- ·~ !'.{/ ·-:-,. .: ·~. ·~ d~ve_lopment of a youth Mainers' pride in their ·*· .~' i ;:'- ·..~,: fishing progra": or estab.+· . ·: •. • hshment of a wildlife state. .·· ·.... · · "Maine Street '90" · ·:~: ·~ ~. ~· habitat improvement demcoordinator Susan : .~: .•· onstration area. Friedman says that in :· ·-: "Participation in 'Maine some cases, past or Street '90' affords all of us ongoing projects are the opportunity to show just simply being renamed , how special Maine really while other communiis," says Friedman, "and ties are planning new it's a way to recognize the initiatives to showcase things we take for

i' .• :~ ···= ~·.. ·::.

~~Avlft.lE STREET

Ma~rfe~~d:~ is gr~~~~-;·nformation is anxious to hear from A C.e/eolo/lcJ/J t}/ available from the "Maine more groups who C.cm77tnlo/Pl-ile Street '90" headquarters at 80 want to participate and Middle Street in Portland suggests that appropriate themes for (phone: 874-1990).

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

284 State Street, Station #41

Augusta, Maine 04333

Newly hatched American bittern chicks in typical dense marsh habitat. Photo by Bill Cross