Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, Spring 2002 by Maine State Library

Maine State Library

Maine State Documents Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine

Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

3-1-2002

Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Spring 2002 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Follow this and additional works at: http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine Recommended Citation Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, "Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Spring 2002" (2002). Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine. Book 51. http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine/51

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Governor Angus S. King, Jr. Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Lee E. Perry, Commissioner Frederick B. Hurley, Jr., Deputy Commissioner Kenneth H. Elowe, Director, Bureau of Resource Management Richard Record, Director, Bureau of Administrative Services Tim Peabody, Colonel, Bureau of Warden Service Andrea Erskine Assistant to the Commissioner Advisory Council Harold Brown, Bangor, Chairman Matt Libby, Ashland , Vice Chairman Robert Savage, Limington Sally Dyer, New Gloucester David A. Wardwell, Penobscot Ray Poulin, Ripley Tenley Meara, Topsham Don Palmer, Rangeley Ken Bailey, Camden Lance Wheaton, Forest City Don Kleiner, Editor (ISSN 0360-005X) MAINE Fish and Wildlife is published quarterly by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 284 State St., Station 41, Augusta, Maine 04333, under appropriation 010-09A-0529. Subscription rate is $9.95 per year. Permission to reprint text material 1s granted, provided proper credit is given to the author and to the Department. Clearance must be obtained from artists, photographers and non-staff authors to reproduce credited work. © Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 2001.

Features Editorial

Comm. Lee Perry

The Department says it 's time for all Maine people to support wildlife.

ReMaine Wild

Susan Giglia

Wildlife rehabilitator perform important service

Fishing Wth Kids

Bruce Matthews

Take your kids fishing and boating. They'll love you for it.

Maine Rainbows

Jim Pellerin

The Department starts an experimental stocking program.

Spring Woodcock

Tenley Meara

You ' ll need to look carefully to spot these birds.

Kidbits

Lisa Kane

Here are the facts on Maine's winged hunters of the night.

Nuisance Reaver

Lisa Kane

Who yo u gonna ca ll when the water rises?

Duck Nesting Boxes

Tom Seymour

The name of the game is making lots of baby ducks.

Caesar Pond WMA

440-acres of uplands and wetlands in Bowdoin. CHANGE OF ADDRESS· Send both old and new addresses to P.O. Box 1457, Yarmouth, Maine 04096. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to MAINE Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 1457, Yarmouth, Maine 04096. QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SUBSCRIPTION? Call 1-800-276-0883 Out of state call 207-846-9501 Periodical Postage Paid at Portland, Maine The Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife receives federal funds from the U.S. Department of 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 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 Design and Prepress by Harry Vanderweide

Habitat Mapping

Bob Humphrey

A landscape approach to open space planning.

Phillips Expands

Chri topher Short

A 24-acre donation at the state hatchery.

About the Cover: Wildlife photographer Roger Irwin caught this beaver working hard in its woodlot. Spring 2002

Editorial By Lee E. Perry. Commi ss ioner Maine Department of Inland Fi sheries and Wildlife

Tirne for All To Support Wildlife I suspect that most people who read this magazine know the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is responsible for the care and management of all of Maine 's fish and wildlife resources. We are the people who work to have laws enacted, conservation policies promulgated, scientific research conducted, fish and wildlife restoration projects implemented, laws enforced, informational and educational materials distributed; open space preserved and habitat provided on private and public land. We and others like us throughout the nation working in conjunction with international, federal and nonprofit conservation groups have developed a system of wildlife management which ensures that migratory birds like the eagle, woodcock and Canada goose fly overhead, that other wildlife such as deer, bear, and raccoons are available to visit your back yard and that fish, loons, and beaver frequent our waters. The Department and others like us would not exist had it not been for the political and financial support of conservation minded hunters and anglers. Some people may have forgotten that our modern system of fish and wildlife conservation was started by a group of hunters whose primary purpose was wildlife preservation. Others may never have realized that advances in fish and wildlife management could not have occurred without the financial aid and political support of sports men and women. Without them, Maine 's fish and wildlife and our quality of life would be very different today. Funds to support the people and programs that protect Maine 's fish and wildlife have not kept pace with inflation and are far short of what is required. This past winter we submitted legislation that again asked hunters and anglers to increase their financial support for fish and wildlife conservation through an increase in fees. In the same bill we asked that all people who share the benefits also share the financial burden of Maine's fish and wildlife conservation programs by committing some general fund tax money for non-fish and game programs starting in fiscal year 2004. As I write this editorial the Legislature's fish and wildlife commjttee has supported LD 1929. When enacted, this legislation will fill the budget gap with a small fee increase and pledge to include general fund money in the Department's budget. This act will ensure that current programs and service continue. Thanks to each of you who helped make this possible. Please take a few moments to step outside and enjoy the fish and wildlife resources we all cherish. P.S. There is still work left undone . Maine 's human population continues to grow. Society ' demand for the use of natural resources and the land and water on which we pursue our recreational interests is expected to increase. Ensuring that fish and wildlife and associated recreational activities survive in the future is a challenge. Together we can meet those challenge . History has proven that fi sh and wildlife declines can be avoided and recreational opportunities created by resource management programs. We are again at a turning point in history when we must rejuvenate our efforts to create a future that is as uccessful as our pa t. Thi will require adequate personnel and funding and the continuing support and cooperation of you and others who have contributed personally and financially to the con ervation effort. Thank you again for your support - past, present and future. 4 MAI E Fi sh and Wildlife

pring 2002

ReMaine Wild A juvenile bald eagle with a treated broken wing t The bird healed and was released. Acadia Wildlife Foundation photo by Stephen Mullane

By Susan Giglia Animals needing rehabilitation in Maine range from endangered and threatened species such as least tern, peregrine falcon and bald eagle; to the more common bobcat, red fox, whitetail deer, great horned owl, blue bird, chickadee, opposum, gray squirrel, and snapping turtle, to mention just a few. With only 75 licensed wildlife rehabilitators in the state, this work can also be daunting. Wildlife rehabilitation is the temporary care of injured, ill or orphaned wild animals with the goal of returning able individual with appropriate survival skills back into their wild habitats. Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals that must receive special MAJ E Fish and Wildlife

permits issued by the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlifein order to handle, house and care for native mammal species. Special federal permits or authorization from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, is necessary to work with migratory birds and marine mammals. Besides being skilled in animal care, a wildlife rehabilitator must also be a student of natural history. Knowledge of specific species behavior and habitat requirements is essential when determining an individual animal's needs and of course care, as well as determining proper release sites. Most wildlife rehabilitators are individuals working out of their own homes and pockets. Though licensed by the government to provide a service, there is a

clear understanding that there is no government reimbursement for any rehabilitation activities. There are only a few paid positions for wildlife rehabilitators in Maine. Most of these are at the handful of larger facilities run by private, non-profit foundations. The e facilities could not run without committed volunteers, endowments, grants and public donations. They provide care to approximately one-half of all wildlife admitted for rehabilitation in the tate. o matter where a rehabilitator works, there are ba ic needs at each site: special caging ranging in size for acute, intermediate and extended care, kitchen facilities for preparing special diets and formulas, medical supplies, scales, heating pads, incubators, an Spring 2002 5

If you find a wild animal in need of assistance: If there is no apparent immediate danger, do not touch it. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice. If the animal is in a dangerous position, (e.g. threat of cats, dogs, cars, humans) and can be SAFELY handled with something like leather gloves, shovel or trash can, remove to a cardboard box in a safe, quiet place. Do not feed it anything. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator. Above all ... do not put yourself or your family at risk by touching a wild animal without proper protection. For detailed information on what to do if you think you've found orphaned wildlife, log onto http://www.nwrawildlife.org/needhelp/main.asp

The four most common reasons for wildlife admis~ions into rehabilitation facilities: Cat attacks account for a large percentage of injured wildlife. Very often, a cat bite is fatal unless antibiotics are administered within hours of the attack. A Wisconsin study determined rural cats killed at least 19 million songbirds and I40,000 game birds in one year in just that state. Other sn1dies have determined that cats have a significant negative impact on native wildlife by competing for prey species. Responsible pet ownership is important for the welfare of both domestic and wild animals. Keep your house cats indoor !

extensive library, carpentry equipment, record keeping materials, cleaning supplies and more. o matter how well equipped or trained rehabilitators are they must also have the advice and assistance of a qualified veterinarian. Wildlife rehabilitation requires not only a financial commitment, but also a huge commitment of time and personal responsibility. During the spring, summer and much of fall , wildlife rehabilitators spend a great deal of time feeding, cleaning and transporting orphaned wild young. Weekends and holidays do not exempt rehabilitators from preparing specific diets made of both wild and manufactured ingredients, feeding birds from sunup to sundown (sometimes every I5 minutes) and orphaned

>1 Wild animals come into contact with automobiles as they forage for food and move around their territories. Be especially careful driving at dawn and dusk when animals are more active. Drive with caution through known wildlife areas and look for the reflection of your headlights in the eyes of animals along the road at night. Window strikes are caused by confusion created by the reflection on glass of sky and other natural surroundings or the sight of the plant behind a window. To prevent birds from flying into windows, attach a large hanging item by suction cup on the outside of the window so it will blow in the breeze, or tape black silhouettes on the outside of the window to break up the reflection. Whether clearing acres for building, removing a dead tree that threatens power lines or replacing the front porch, habitats can be affected by any kind of disturbance. Birds nests technically cannot be moved, but they are often destroyed during construction before anyone notices them.The good news is that an artificial nest can often be constructed and placed near the original site, allowing the parents to raise their young. If young mammals nests are disturbed and. if given time and privacy, the adults will often move them to a new site. Please check any area that is to be disturbed for all kinds of nesting animals. Whenever possible, put off the project until the young have left the area Often young wild animals just learning to fly or investigating their surroundings are mistaken for orphans in need. The vast majority of the time their parents are nearby, though will not come close due to a human presence. Fawns are also often mistakenly "kidnapped" by well meaning passer by. Does leave their fawns for many hours each day for the safety of the young and need to forage . "If you care, leave them there."

A great blue heron is released after recovering from being hit by a truck. Acadia Wildlife Foundation photo by Ann Rivers

6 MAI E Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002

mammals around the clock (every two to four hours) until their eyes open. Time is spent on the phone giving advice on easing human/wildlife conAicts, evaluating whether a young animal is truly orphaned or has been "kidnapped" and determining if it can be successfully replaced or just left alone. There is much time spent supporting other rehabilitators needing help with their wards. Because wildlife rehabilitation is an evolving science, and wildlife rehabilitators are continually seeking training and support, ReMaine Wild was established in 1996. A registered non-profit volunteer organization, ReMaine Wild's goal is to serve wildlife rehabilitators, as ociated professionals and the general public by collecting, developing and disseminating information concerning the rehabilitation of Maine's native wildlife. Each year ReMaine Wild organizes and hosts an annual wildlife rehabilitation confer nee. The combination of lecture, lab and field work offers participant a unique opportunity to learn wildlife rehabilitation skills taught by experts from all over New England . Because rehabilitators work intimately with wild animals in need of special care, it is imperative that they provide treatment that is truly in the best interest of the animal. Unlike domestic animals, wild animals are stressed

A juvenile red fox gets medication. It was evicted from under a house and later released. Acadia Wildlife Foundation photo by Cody Van Heerden

there are many fundamental lessons we can learn from our wild neighbors. Wildlife rehabilitation is one opportunity for those interested in gaining the skills to interact with and help protect our native species. When trained rehabilitators care for sick, orphaned or injured wildlife we are treating individuals. One hope is that over time the information and data collected from treating these individual will help professionals in the field to protect populations of wi ld animals. As our human population increases, the incidences of human and wildlife interaction increases. The knowledge gained through care and treatment of rehabilitated wildlife, and shared with the public, allows for increased respect and appreciation of wildlife. One more thing: there is nothing like releasing a healthy wild animal! For more information about ReMaine Wild or wildlife rehabilitation contact: ReMaine Wild, P 0. Box 113, Newcastle ME 04553

This horned grebe was found frozen into the ice. It was later successfully released. Acadia Wildlife foundation photo by Ann Rivers

very easily by human contact and should not be handled extensively. Wild animals cannot be kept as pets ... ever. Mortality rates can be high. One may work for months with an anima l that i then deemed non-releasable and must be euthanized or permanently placed in an educational facility. If you can't cuddle them and the work i time consuming, expensive and often heartbreaking, why bother? Because MAT E Fish and Wildlife

This saw-whet owl was caught by a dog and suffered a broken wing. It was treated and released. Ann Rivers photo

Spring 2002 7

Teach Your Kids to Fish and Boat They'll L<>ve V<>u f<>r It By Bruce Matthews President and CEO Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation Photos by Tom Tietz A couple was joking the other day about how they were considering hiring a full -time secretary to schedule their kids' activities. Maybe then, they laughed, they could call and make an appointment to actuall y spend time with their children. Between school activities, soccer practices, tutors, horseback riding lessons, sleep-overs, homework, swim meets and play groups, it was getting more and more difficult to squeeze in quality, family time.

Well, it appears that day is here. Taking your kids fishing could be the answer. There are a number of reasons why it makes sense to introduce your kids to fishing, according to Dr. Martin Drell , head of

"Wouldn't it be nice if there were an activity where parents and their children could just relax and enjoy being together without having to pry the video game controllers out of the kids' hands?" the woman sa id wistfully. "Oh sure," said the man, "and while we're dreaming, how about making it an activity that would even help the kids learn about the importance of life it elf?" "Yeah, right!" they both laughed . "That' II be the day!"

8 MAI E Fish

and Wildlife

Spring 2002

Strategies for Geat Fishing Trips So what's the best way to introduce your kids to this wonderiul pastime? Here are a few suggestions on making fishing a fun family activity. • Hooked on fishing - Adult anglers primarily fish for relaxation, to be with friends and family and for the sport, but kids are different - they want action! Ask any boy or girl what they like best about fishing and they'll probably shout out, "Catching fish!" The primary motivation for them is the simple joy of catching fish. "Kids need to catch fish to get hooked on the sport," said Mark Duda, executive director of Responsive Management. "Hooking a fish is not most important for adults but it sure is for kids. They need the excitement. " • One fish, two fish - The best way to make sure your kids enjoy their next fishing trip with you is to take them to a spot where there are plenty of fish just waiting to be caught. Fish like perch bite often and are easy to reel in . Outings with children should be to places where there is a guarantee of catching a lot of fish , but of course, you should also take the opportunity to teach them not to take more than they can use. Teach your kids the importance of catch and release. This also reinforces respect for other living things. • The "yucky factor" - Fishing with your kids is also a great time to explain to them how the food chain works. They'll learn , for example , that each type of fish has a favorite bug to eat - remember, anything "yucky" to a 9-year-old is particularly cool - and this will help them learn how each lure , fly or type of live bait will help them catch a specific type of fish . Bass, for example, are great because they'll eat a wide variety of wiggly things like frogs , crickets and worms, each having its own qualities t~,at elicit kids' giggles and crinkled-up noses.

Infant, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Louisiana State University Medical School at New Orleans. "Fishing can offer parents the opportunity to teach their children a wide variety of lessons - it not only conveys the value of nature but it also teaches children how to do things correctly and precisely and it encourages them to follow rules. Jt helps kids develop patience and concentration. And, of course, any activity that's enjoyable to both parent and child is beneficial," said Dr. Dre!!. Unfortunately, many parents feel obligated to have their children participate in an overload of activities - sometimes regardless of whether or not the child wants to do so. Keep them busy and you'll keep them out of trouble, goes the age-old wisdom. Too much rushing around, however, carries with it a double-edged sword affecting both parent and child. First, many adults succumb to pressure from their own peers, feeling that others will view them as bad parents if they don 't become fully active in the little league. Second, too many activities can mean ,

• Do you want fries with that? - Lots of kids today believe that dinner comes in a nicely wrapped, coloriul package from the fast food joint around the corner. But if you let them help you cook your catch after an outing on the pond , they'll understand where our food comes from. As they prepare and serve your feast, their pride will show on their faces as the family enjoys the meal the kids helped bring to the table. • Intermission - Remember to take frequent breaks with your child especially if he or she is under the age of 10. Don't expect young children to be able to sit quietly in a boat for hours waiting for a nibble. Use break time as a learning experience. Let them get rid of pent up energy by allowing them to run around chasing butterilies or catching tadpoles. Bring a clear jar to catch lady bugs or minnows and after a short observation time learning to appreciate little creepy-crawlies, help your kids return them to the place they found them . Getting your son or daughter to appreciate nature will help them grow to become responsible outdoor lovers.

MAINE Fi sh and Wildli fe

Keep it simple is important when you fish with kids. That includes the type of fishing gear they use. Spring 2002 9

ironically, that kids end up not being with their parents after all. "Sometimes these activities become surrogate babysitting services," warned Dr. Drell. "The children end up spending more time with Coach than with Dad. Of primary importance to any child is that they like more than anything to be with their parents." Fishing, on the other hand, forces you to shift gears and slow down. Sure it takes some effort to organize a fishing trip with your little ones -- gathering equipment, making lunches, travel time to the lake or river -- but setting aside a whole day to fish with your kids can equal an entire lifetime of memories for both of you. Being introduced to fishing during childhood is essential to inspiring a lifelong love of the sport and it's also vital to helping kids develop a favorable attitude toward the world around them. Because there is a certain response between the fisherman and the fish, fishing becomes a model for being considerate of others. Independent studies have shown that children who participate in outdoor activities such as fishing and boating not only know more about the environment but they also develop a much deeper understanding of ecology than children who don't participate in these activities. According to one study by Yale University researcher Dr. Steve Kellert, children who learned about fish and wildlife in the classroom or zoos lacked real knowledge about animals and had a poorer ecological perspective than other children. The study concluded that learning about animals in schools needs to be enhanced by direct exposure to animals and natural habitats. Besides helping kids understand and appreciate nature and conservation, taking your kids fishing and boating gives them a pastime they can pursue all their lives. According to a survey conducted by Re pon ive Management, a public opinion research firm specializing

Even the little ones have tun if there is lots of action to keep their attention.

10 MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs emphasizes the inter-action between children and adults. in conservation i sues, 85 percent of today's freshwater anglers began fishing before they turned 13. In contrast, only 8 percent took up fishing as adult . What this means is that when you teach your kids to love the water while they're still young, you are introducing them to activities that will give them a lifetime of enjoyment and omething they'll return to again and again. Being introduced to fishing and boating during childhood is essential to inspiring a Ii felong love of the water and it's also vital to helping kids develop a favorable attitude toward the world around them. Maine has ome of the best fishing in the eastern United tates. With our 3,000 lakes and ponds and 32,000 miles of streams and rivers and miles of coastline, opportunitie to take the family fishing and boating abound. There are dozens of fi bing derbies taking place throughout the year, fly fishing is increasingly popular and ice fi hing is an adventure in itself. The most important goal when taking your kids fishing and boating are to have fun and, above all, to spend family time together. Let your kids know how much you love them by setting aside your day to be only with them. They'll love you for it. pring 2002

A Future for Rainbows? By Jim Pellerin Region A Fisheries Biologist Rainbow trout exhibit excellent sporting qua lities. They fight hard and leap often like our native landlocked salmon; they readily take bait, flies , and artificia l lures that are cast, trolled, drifted, or jigged; and they have demonstrated an ability to produce quality fisheries in both still and running waters. They are also highly prized as a food fish, although many would argue they don ' t hold a candle to our native brookies. In addition, they are relatively easy to culture in hatchery environments, and

MAINE Fish and Wildlife

there are a wide variety of strains available with different performance characteristics. These traits have made rainbows one of the most popular trout species in North America and they have been introduced on every Continent in the world, except Antarctica. Their popularity is evident; fishing catalogs and popular angling magazines are full of pictures and articles related to rainbows. They are widely stocked throughout North America and every state in the Northeast, other than Maine, has a rainbow trout stocking program. Is it any wonder that fishery biologists are so often asked, "Why doesn 't Maine get with the program and start

The Department launches an experimental stocking program

Spring 2002

â&#x20AC;˘

stocking rainbows?" Many anglers are surprised to hear that Maine has actua lly tried stocking rainbows, but the programs were discontinued. The Department has some good news for rainbow supporters; 'bows were stocked into several Maine waters in 2001 as part of an experimental stocking program. Prior Rainbow Stockings in Maine The first stocking program for rainbow trout began in the early l 930's and continued through the late l 940's; during this time 82 Maine lakes and streams were stocked with rainbow trout fry or fingerlings produced in Federal hatcheries. Many stockings were done with a "try them and see what happens" attitude with little regard for the species biological requirements, and follow-up evaluations were limited. The rainbow pl antings provided angling opportunities on most

John Boland , left and author Jim Pellerin have some luck sampling rainbows last fall on the Androscoggin River. John Patriquin photo

Where to Find Them Browns & Rainbows Upper Androscoggin R. (Bethel/Gilead) Kennebec R. (below Shawmut) Little Androscoggin R. (Oxford-Auburn) Swift R. (below Coos Canyon) Crystal L (Gray) Middle/Upper Range P. (Poland) Megunticook L. (Camden)

L. George (Canaan) Brookies & Rainbows Lily Pond (New Gloucester) Long P. (Denmark) Jaybird P. (Hiram) Overset P. (Greenwood) 12 MAINE Fish and Wi ldli fe

waters, yet when stockings were discontinued ra inbows soon disappeared from all but a handful of waters. Historical acco unts suggest these stockings were expected to produce self-sustaining populations, which may have been an unrealistic expectation. The Department currently stocks 1.2 million trout and salmon annually, and the majority of stocked waters wou ld not maintain viab le co ldwater fisheries without regular stockings. Rainbows were given a second chance in Ma ine waters between 1968 and 1978. In 1968, the Department initiated an experimenta l stocking program to compare rainbow trout performance to brook trout in terms of growth, holdover ability, summer fishing opportunity, and resistance to competition. This study involved 6 ponds and I river, the ponds ranged in size from I 7-60 acres and all lacked suitable spawning habitat. Evaluations ended in 1973, the fina l report demonstrated mixed re ults among the different waters: sometimes rainbows exceeded brook trout performance for one or more of the stated objectives, sometimes resu lts were similar, or in a few cases rainbow performance was less than expected.

Biologists were intri gued when rainbows demonstrated an opportuni stic feeding behavior that resulted in good growth on many waters. This suggested 'bows might perform well on moderate sized lakes where landlocked salmon production was impacted by unreliable smelt populations. Between 1974 and 1978, rainbow trout performance was re-examined on 15 different lakes ranging from 60-1,220 acres in size where forage opportunities for salmon were limited. Creel surveys on 6 waters demonstrated that rainbows grew well, but provided low angler returns. Both phases of the rainbow project faced problems; the most critical was the ability to acquire disease-free eggs from year to year. Five different strains ended up being used during the studies, and biologists were unable to distinguish strain related performance differences. The Department discontinued the rainbow project in 1979 for several reasons including: difficulties associated with acquiring di ease-free egg sources; the danger of accidental mixing of rainhows with other coldwater species in the hatchery ystem leading to an introSpring 2002

duction in drainages where they might compete with native salmonids; and they did not strongly meet expectations. Department slated to try rainbows again . .. In the fall of 1997, the Fishery Division established a committee comprised of biologists and fish culturists to revisit the prospect of a rainbow trout stocking program. After some deliberation of the pros and cons, the committee and Department heads concluded to move forward with a limited, program to reevaluate the relative performance of rainbow trout against brown trout and brook trout. While some argue rainbows provide diversity, our intentions are Lo examine if rainbows can provide fishery managers with an additional tool to improve fishing opportunities for Maine anglers. The tudy wi II be conducted over a five-year period in a variety of Maine waters and will include three parts: field performance comparisons of browns and rainbows, field performance comparisons of brookies and rainbows, and hatchery performance comparisons among all three species. The committee's next task was to select a strain of rainbow trout for the pilot-stocking program. The National Fish Strain Registry was searched for all sources of rainbows meeting the following criteria: â&#x20AC;˘ Eggs had to be available for purchase or trade; â&#x20AC;˘ The hatchery had to be located east of the continen tal divide to avoid western pathogens; â&#x20AC;˘ The hatchery had to have and maintain an "A" dis ease rating (disease free for a minimum of three con secutive years). This narrowed our search down to 17 different strains, and a review of registry information quickly eliminated several more strains. The remaining dozen or so

Raibow fry at the New Gloucester Hatchery.

Jim

Thousands of fry congregate in a run at the New Gloucester hatchery. Jim Pellerin photo strains were placed into a matrix and ranked, based upon hatchery and field performance ratings provided in the database. The top 6 rated strains were further reviewed by calling biologists and fish culturists in other parts of the country that had experience with each of the rainbow strains. We finally settled upon the Eagle Lake Strain as our first choice. The Eagle Lake strain is a fall spawning rainbow originally from Eagle Lake in California. The Erwin National Fish Hatchery in Tennessee is furnishing our rainbow eggs. These eggs are being supplied free of charge for up to five years. Our first batch of rainbow eggs was received in December of l 998. Eggs are hatched at the ew Gloucester facility and reared until late May, then the fry are transferred to another southern Maine hatchery where they are grown to stocking size. In 200 I, approximately IQ.000 rainbows were stocked into designated study waters (see list on Pge 12) in conjunction with equal numbers of brown trout or brook trout. Preliminary investigations were conducted in the summer and fall of2001 to investigate the best sampling methods for rainbows, and formal evaluations began in January of this year. Annual paired stockings and follow-up evaluations will continue throughout the 5-year study period. When the study is complete, results will be presented to the Fishery Division for discussion and determination if a regular stocking program for rainbows will be pursued in the future.

What's so good about rainbows? So, what are the benefits of rainbows and how are they expected to improve fishing opportunity? First, let 's take a look at our brown trout management programs. Browns are currently used where other coldwater species do not produce a satisfactory fishery. These water usually have factors that limit the success of coldwater species including: marginal water quality conditions for trout and salmon ' particularly during late summer and early fall (i.e. limited cold, oxygenated water); heavy competition from other fish pecies; or a lack of suitable forage such as smelt. Browns are tough, they often pro-

Pellerin photo

MAl E Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002

duce quality fisheries in the face of these conditions, but they are also very difficult to catch for most anglers. Rainbows, although not quite as hardy as brown trout, are expected to provide better catch rates and angler returns. In addition, we suspect rainbows might be caught more readily than brown trout during mid-day hours. Although early mornings and evenings are generally the most productive fishing times, many anglers fish at all hours of the day. On the other hand, if rainbows are easily caught they may not produce the same trophy sized fish or as many holdovers as our brown trout program. Rainbows may be used as an alternative to browns in some waters or they may be planted in conjunction with brown trout to maximize the strengths of each species. Brookies and rainbows are a little different story, brook trout are actually expected to provide similar or better catch rates than 'bows. The suspected benefits of rainbows in relation to brook trout for this study are almost identical to what was outlined in the 1968 project. In southern Maine, many of our brook trout stockings amount to a "put-and-take fishery." We generally see little growth and holdover with brookies, and fishing opportunities can be limited from mid-summer through fall. The reason for this is that many of our waters have marginal summer water quality and heavy competition from minnows and other fish species. Rainbows are a little hardier when it comes to water quality and competition. As a result, rainbows might provide fishing longer into the season (i.e. late summer and fall) and more holdover potential than brookies. Rainbows, like browns, also tend to be more opportunistic feeders than brookies. If rainbows utilize more of the food chain including fish species, they may exhibit greater growth potential than brook trout. Rainbows can't be all good Many people have been very positive regarding the possibility of a rainbow trout program for Maine, but some have also expressed concerns. The Fishery and Hatchery Division identified two primary risks with starting another rainbow trout program in Maine. First, is the potential impact to our native fish populations. Rainbows have similar food and habitat requirements to our native salmonids; particularly brook trout, and landlocked salmon. If rainbows establi hed wild population where native salmonids exist, they would certainly produce impacts through competition for available re ources. The other concern regarding the stocking of rainbow trout is the potential for introducing new disease to Maine, particularly whirling disea e. The Department has taken everal step to address these issue and minimize potential risks. Study waters were carefully cho en and restricted to stockings where we would not anticipate any long-term impacts to native trout and salmon fisheries. In fact, all of the study waters occur in drainages where either rainbow trout are established or have a history of being stocked

14 MAI E Fish and Wildlife

John Boland, left, and Jim Pellerin take note of a rainbow's weight. John Patriquin photo by our agency and/or by private hatcheries. In the future, we would expect the committee to develop a strict stocking policy for rainbow trout to address this issue. Future stockings would still be subject to internal and public review processes. Again, most stocked water where rainbows might be utilized have little to no habitat potential for coldwater reproduction, and years of stocking brookies and browns have not resulted in self-sustaining populations. Precautions have also been taken on the hatchery front to reduce accidental mixing and escapement. On the disease issue, it has already been mentioned that fish are coming from a brood source located Ea t of the Continental Divide to avoid western pathogens, and the hatch ery supplying our eggs has an "A" disease rating. The importation of eggs rather than fish, and egg treatments upon arrival further limits the potential for disease introduction. Given these precautions, whirling di ease and other pathogens are more likely to be introduced into Maine by other mean (i.e. illegal importation of fish, transportation of spore via fishing equipment, etc.). Like most things in life there arc risks with no guarantees and rarely are benefits to be gained without ri k. The Department is charged with both protecting our native resources and enhancing fishing opportunities. Thi study i intended to determine if rainbows will reward Maine's anglers with new and improved opportunities, and the Department will continue to do all we can to protect our native fi heric . Maybe Maine angler can have the be t of both world ? Scott and rossman in the Fishes of Canada sum up rainbows nicely, "The rainbow has been one of the more uccessful, more appreciated, and less potentially dangerous of the many attempts to introduce a ti h to areas beyond its natural range." Spring 2002

Spring Arrives on Woodcock Wings By Tenley Meara o you remember the first woodcock you ever saw? I do. I had recently overheard a conversation between my father and "Uncle Ron" Webber as they sipped coffee at our kitchen table one morning. Ron described seeing the birds flying in to covers at dusk. The conversation left an image etched in my brain. Several springtime evenings later, beneath the afterglow of a setting sun, I was playing at the edge of a field when a dark bird with rather broad wings and a long narrow bill flitted overhead and suddenly dropped in to the alders silhouetted behind me. 1 might have thought nothing of the encounter had I not been privy to the information exchanged days before. On this evening 1 paused long enough to say to myself, "I think I saw a woodcock." It was surely the oddest-looking bird I'd ever seen with its heavy body and wings

Woodcock chicks are almost perfectly camouflaged when on their nest.

set for a landing to be absorbed by tiny dangling legs. For a young girl of only 10 it was quite a discovery! In only a few seasons time I had learned to identify black ducks, green wing teal, buffleheads and whistlers on the wing. I'd watched rafts of old squaws and eiders skipping down the New Meadows River. Robins and blue jays and chickadees were common in our back yard on Great Island. I'd nearly tripped over a grouse or several over the years, but never, had I seen a woodcock. At age ten I wondered, how in my "lifetime" outdoors I'd not stumbled upon a single woodcock before that evening? , For many years after my only encounters with these birds were in the evening, often as I drove along roadsicjes edged by alder or aspen. I would see them, as I had the first time, dropping from the sky. I was awed by their ability to appear and disappear in the blink of an eye. And still I wondered how it could be that I had traipsed throughout Maine and never had more than a fleeting glimpse of one. It wasn't until I began upland bird hunting that I came to truly admire this distinguished bird. One particular autumn morning sunlight cast heavy shadows through alder branches while William Bishop's German shorthaired pointer The mottled coloration of a woodcock gives the "El a" held a classic point. hens excellent protection when they are sitting on I was instructed to move up their nests. Photo by Daniel McAuley - USGS MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Photo

by Daniel McAuley - USGS

for the flush. As I cautiously stepped forward, my eyes frantically scanned the patch of ground in front of the dog 's nose. Then I saw it ... in the spot light of a sun beam ... a bird so well camouflaged it was hard to tell where leaves stopped and feathers began. Its tiny dark eyes were wide open, as it held, hunkered down and still. I paused and stared. "I see it." I whispered to William. He crept closer. I pointed out the bird and all the while Elsa's sides heaved as she breathed in the bird 's scent but moved not a muscle. As William 's gaze met the bird's he suggested we let that one go. It is a rare gift when the elusive woodcock will show herself to us . We stood silently taking in the beauty of the moment when in a whirring of wings the bird got up and cleared the alder ceiling. I like to think it was headed south for the winter only to return in spring. Blankets of snow will soon be pulled back to reveal tawny ground and there, at the edge of dusk, you too can see the woodcock as he flies in for the evening. When the fields are finally free of frost invite a special friend to join you under the cover of a setting sun for the spiraling, twittering courtship dance of the woodcock. I suggest you bring along a nice bottle of merlot, a couple of wine glasses, and a blanket. Sit back, enjoy the moment and toast the arrival of spring and return of our upland friend, the woodcock.

Tenley Meara is a registered Maine Guide and operates "As the Crow Flies Master Guide Service. 11 She lives in Topsham with her husband John, two pointing dogs and team ofAlaskan huskies.

Spring 2002

Owls have an interesting digestive system. Since they have no teeth, owls swallow their prey whole. The meal first goes into a chamber called the proventriculus. There the digestable matter (flesh, brains, eyes, guts) is sorted from the indigestable stuff (fur and bone). The digestable matter continues on to the stomach, while the fur and bone is regurgitated in the form of an owl pellet. Owl pellets may contain the bones and fur of several meals and it is not unusual to find beaks, scapulas, skulls , teeth , femurs , jaws , claws , vertebrae, insect exoskeletons, feathers , fur , ribs and more!

Of the nine species of owl you may see in Maine, the three in the photographs are the so-called 'resident birds' that live in Maine year round. Other owls to look for include the snowy. great gray, long-eared, short-eared, northern hawk owl and boreal owl. Owls have amazing 'adaptations', or physical features that help them do their jobs within their habitats or homes. Owl eyes are packed with rod cells to help them see in low light. Owls can spot a mouse 100 yards away! Owl necks can swivel 270° if they hear a sound behind and don't want to startle possible prey by moving their bodies. Owl ears are assymetrically placed to home in on prey squeaks, rustles and chirps more accurately. An owl can hear a mouse stepping on a twig from 75 feet away! Owl feathers are fringed at the ends, breaking up the air flowing over the wing to make for silent flight. Owl beaks and talons are made for ripping and tearing meat; then swallowing big chunks whole. Owls have good camouflage or coloration to blend in with their habitat during daylight hours.

Thes , are the owl pellets from a wild great horned owl. Note the bird beak, mouse skull , squirrel vertebrae and even the metal racing band from a pigeon! Phot os by Adam Har rington

Mouse Skeleton ~

Great horned owls are common all over Maine, pref erring mature forested habitats interspersed with open fields. They can tackle fairly large prey such as rabbits, squirrels and even skunks!

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Look for wild owl pellets underneath favorite roosting trees , identified by the 'whitewash' or excrement that may coat the tree trunk, or from under a known owl nest. If you've heard owls hooting in your backyard you can probably find owl pellets. You can use toothpicks or sharp nails to pull the fur and bones of the pellet apart. Tweezers and a magnifying glass are helpful too. Dissecting owl pellets is a great anatomy lesson and a cool wildlife mystery to solve as well .

Radrus

f Ar.e you as wise as an·· owl? .See ,if you ,can answer these

owl questions. Answers on 'Page

29 .

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Saw whet owls are only 7 inches tall, but are fierce nocturnal hunters, preying on a variety of smal I rodents and birds.

5 _ __ _ _

MAI E Fish and Wildlife

2 _____ _

Barred owls are common throughout Maine. They live in wetlands habitats like swamps and bogs, eating mice, frogs , snakes and even crayfish!

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During one week, a great horned owl ate:

Sprin g 2002

1 M A INE Fish and Wildli fe

3 ____ _

Spring 2002

Who You Gonna Call? By Lisa Kane Photos by Mark Lotti and Lisa Kane The owners of the Maine Lee Morgan Horse Farm in Kennebec County had a problem. The beavers, with whom they had lived harmoniously for the past several years, had taken on a new project - damming up a stream culvert and flooding the road to the farm's upper pasture where 20 registered Morgan horses grazed during the summer. Although the horses could wade through the deep water, vehicles used to access the pasture were of no use; the road was impassable. A heavy rain added to the problem. Who do you call? What are your options as a landowner? It's illegal to kill beavers except during the legal winter trapping season. The Department of Environmental Protection actively discourages beaver dam removal other than by hand; heavy equipment in a stream bed or blowing up a dam are not acceptable practices. Enter regional wildlife biologists. Once informed of the problem, they went out to take a look. Every landowner's beaver problem has a different twist, and the biologists have several different methods of addressing them. In this case , it was recommended that the landowners employ a registered Animal Damage Control (ADC) agent to commence live trapping immediately to reduce the beaver population in the area. In addition, the biologists spent a day unblocking the culvert. It was then fenced off , to prevent the beavers

Spri ng 2002

from blocking it again. They may continue to try to dam along the fence, but since the water is allowed to pass through the culvert, the original flooding problem is is avoided. Wildlife biologists determined that an extensive beaver colony was over-populating the farm's wetlands, so it was recommended that the landowners open their land to beaver trapping in order to further reduce the population. Periodic removal of excess beaver from a flowage increases the longevity of these valuable wetlands. In this case, beavers returned right after the exclosure was installed, digging under the fencing to again block the culvert and flood the road a second time. The landowners cleared the culvert of the new dam materials and added additional fencing , and the second exclosure attempt worked. With the live removal of 2 very large beavers from the stream, the Maine Lee Morgan horse farm stream crossing problems were temporarily solved. These particular beavers worked hard within this habitat, traveling up steep slopes over a half mile from their lodge to cut favored poplar, maple and ash for food, dam and lodge material. Beaver literally eat themselves out of house and home. In 'a decade-long cycle, they establish and flood a stream corridor, and proceed to eat all available food. After several years, they leave due to depletion of food sources. The abandoned dam breaks apart without the beaver's constant maintenance, allowing the stream corridor to return to its original state. New shrub and tree growth occurs in the former flowage, and in 10-20 years, the area again becomes suitable beaver habitat and a new colony moves in. Due to the lack of natural predators and a reduction in trapping effort, beaver populations have risen to record levels. As a result of this population explosion, many valuable wetlands have been created. This undoubtedly benefits wildlife and can be beneficial to humans, as long as nuisance issues are addressed. If you have beavers flooding your roads, woodlots, or agricultural fields, call your regional wildlife office. While you may have to bear some of the costs, a wildlife biologist's assistance is available to help you solve your nuisance beaver problems. MAINE Fish and Wi ldl ife

Spring 2002

Maine's Nest Box Program At left, a hen merganser gets a leg band to help keep track of her migrations. Photos By Tom Seymour

A Cooperative Effort Brings Far-Reaching Benefits By Tom Seymour Maine's duck nest box program is a classic example of how private individuals, working in concert with a government agency, can achieve far-reaching results. In the mid 1960s, our wood duck population plummeted. That's when a private individual saw a need and went to work to provide a remedy. Jim Dorso knew the key to increased duck numbers was increased production. And the way to

MAINE Fish and Wildlife

boost production was to provide spaces where the ducks could safely incubate their eggs. Wooden nesting boxes were the answer. Dorso took it upon himself to manufacture and erect the boxes in the wetland habitats the ducks prefer. These took the place, in part, of the vanishing hollow trees favored by cavity-nesting ducks. Set atop posts driven in the water or along the water's edge, and equipped with a smooth, metal predator guard, the boxes kept marauding raccoons and other predators at bay, while providing a safe shelter for the nesting hen and her clutch of eggs. Dorso 's effort did not go unnoticed by the Department. It was apparent that the nesting boxes worked as Dorso had hoped . Regional willdife biologists wanted to expand the scope or Dorso's enterprise. Eventually, Jim Dorso was hired as a fish and game technician, his experience with building and iting nesting boxes putting him in a posit ion to see the program off to an efTective start.

Prime l\lesting Habitat Today, of the approximately 2, I 00 active nesting boxes maintained by the Department, about 900 are in Region B, which stretches from Central Maine to the Mid-Coast area. Region B, according Biologist Allen Starr, a Wildlife Specialist working out of the Sidney Office, contains the bulk of Maine's prime duck nesting habitat. Each spring, beginning sometime in May, Starr makes the rounds of the nesting box circuit. What Starr determines on the e visits will, among several other things, help to set waterfowl seasons. Here 's how a typical duck nesting box visit works. Loading his canoe with a stepladder, bags of fresh, clean wood shavings, a notebook, hip boots and a strin g of metal leg bands and a special tool to clamp the bands in place, Starr vis its a nesting area. It is important for him to approach each nesting box s lowly and si lently ; any Spring 2002

noise could scare off a nesting duck. If the box is situated on a pole surrounded by water, the canoe may have to be tied to the pole if the day is windy. ln addition, if the pole is set on land, a stepladder may be needed for access. With the first step, that of reaching the box, accomplished, Starr places an open hand over the entrance hole. The darkness thus created calms the duck and prevents her from escaping. Then, a removable nail is pulled from the side of the specially designed box and a hinged door is partially opened. Starr reaches in and if a duck is present, gently encompasses her with his hand and removes her for examination. fn nearly every case, the hen is calm and seemingly unafraid. If a leg band is present, Starr copies the data and notes the current date, time and place. This, he explains, is the same information needed if a hunter shot the duck later and returns the band. If the duck is unhanded, Starr removes a metal leg band from the necklace of bands strung around his neck and deftly clamps a shiny, new band on the duck. Starr bands up to 115 ducks in a season.

Surro~ate \]oms Before the duck is returned to her nest, Starr counts the number and kind of eggs. Often a duck will be found incubating not only her own eggs, but those of other ducks as well. Three kinds of ducks utilize nesting boxes : wood ducks, common goldeneyes and hooded mergansers. Sometimes the eggs of all three species turn up in the same box, with the setting hen, whatever species of duck she may be, acting as a surrogate. On occasion, two ducks of the same species will use a box at the same time. Once, Starr discovered two wood duck hen s nesting side-by-side. Not only ducks use the nesting boxes, Starr has found nesti ng red squirrels, starlings, swallows, grackles, kestrels and even saw-whet owls. Once, he said, a mother tree wallow occupied the same box as a hen common go ldeneye. The swa llow sat on her tiny eggs in one corner of the box, apparently undeterred by the larger bi rd 's pre ence. MAfNE Fish and Wildlife

Counting eggs is important to check the productivity of ducks, such as this hooded merganser hen. According to Starr, this multi-use habit could prove confusing for the young, once they leave the nest. "Imagine," he said, "how a wood duck duckling feels, after thinking he is a hooded merganser, only to have his mother, and his brothers and sisters, all dive at once." Since wood ducks do not dive, it's easy to see how this could be disconcerting. Time spent in the nesting box is surprisingly short. A wood duck hen, for instance, will incubate a clutch of 12 or 15 eggs. After about 30 days, the eggs hatch. Almost immediately after hatching, the mother leaves the box and calls her brood. The ducklings jump from the box, land in the water and swim after their mother, never to return to the nesting box.

Spring House Cleaning The absence of a duck in a box does not indicate the box is not in use. Perhaps the hen is off feeding, or more than likely, she has laid the eggs but has not yet begun the process of incubation. If eggs are present, Starr determines their status by whether or not they are warm. Still-warm eggs mean the mother is incubating, but happens to be away. Cold eggs may mean the hen has yet to start incubating them.

If a box is empty, the old nesting material is cleared away and replaced with new, clean shavings. A dirty nest can deter a duck from selecting a nesting box. Another useful bit of data is found on the ground near the nesting boxes. Bits of membrane from hatched-out eggs indicate a successful hatch from the previous season. It takes some serious detective work to locate these and to determine what type of eggs they are. Starr can tell, though, by the color of the eggs, as well as the thickness of any remaining shell. Hooded merganser eggs, for instance, are considerably thicker than wood duck eggs. Before pushing off to visit the next nesting box, Starr notes the condition of the box. If it is in poor shape, if ice has heaved the pole and the box tilts at a crazy angle, or if the entrance hole has been gnawed to a too-large diameter by predators, it needs to be replaced . This task will be accomplished later, in fall or winter. Boxes set directly in the water are less vulnerable, Starr said. Boxes placed on shore are subject to predation from raccoons, squirrels and even fishers . It is not always possible, Spring 2002

though, to set all the boxes in an ideal location. Sometimes, volunteers help with this task. For instance, Unity College students like to get hands-on experience, and have pitched in past years to trek across the frozen wetlands and replace or repair duck nesting boxes.

Multiple Species Benefit What began as an effort to bolster a diminished wood duck population has benefited the other two cavity-nesting species, hooded mergansers and common goldeneyes. Current percentages of box use by species breaks down to 40 percent hooded merganser, 40 percent wood ducks, l 0 percent common goldeneyes, with the balance filled by non-waterfowl species. The data collected on these field trips is sent to the Resource Assessment section in Bangor, where it is copied and in turn, forwarded to the US Fish & Wildlife Service. The information gathered is used to determine harvest pressure and migration routes, as well as to give a crisp synopsis of production rates. Data collected over the past 30 or so years reflects population increases and decreases. This is a factor in setting waterfowl hunting seasons and bag limits.

Cleaning old material out of nesting boxes is an important step in increasing the Jiklihood that a hen will choose to lay her eggs inside Dedicated \'olu teers

Maine's wood duck nesting program is a major factor in the abundance of these colorful ducks.

MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Maine's duck nest boxes are still produced by a private individual, Ray Drowns, a volunteer from Alfred, Maine. Drowns crafts approximately 300 new boxes each year, using donated material. The value of this service is inestimable. Ray Drowns, and others like him, are the reason the duck nesting box program is such a success. Without these dedicated individuals, there is no telling how the program would fare. According to Starr, private individuals are encouraged to produce and erect their own duck nesting boxes. A call to Starr at 207-5475320 for box dimensions and suggestions on where and when to site the box is an important first step. The other requirement is a willingness on the part of the landowner to maintain the box on a regular basis. That means visiting the site annually during the off-season and doing any minor repairs, as well as replacing the nesting medium. As new generations of wood ducks, hooder mergansers, and goldeneyes dabble and dive in our wetlands and watercourses, we should appreciate the work that goes into giving the e beautiful birds a helping hand. Spring 2002

Caesar Pond Wildlife Management Area Caesar Pond WMA in Bowdoin consists of approximately 500 acres of upland and wetland habitats and roughly one mile of shoreline on Caesar Pond. The upland portion of the area consists of approximately 440 acres of young and mature mixed northern hardwoods and mature pine/hemlock. The wetland portion consists of 60-acre Caesar Pond. With an average depth of five feet, it is relatively shallow. Nearly the entire pond is vegetated with various emergent and submergent plants and surrounded by shrub swamp. Dominant ~pecies

The Pond, and its associated wetlands provide habitat for numerous species of waterfowl, wading birds, aquatic furbearers and other wildlife specie . Upland areas also provide habitat for common game and non-game species including grouse and white-tailed deer. \1anagcment

A primary objective for this area is to maintain a diverse aquatic wetland habitat for migratory waterbirds. However, Caesar Pond currently has no water control structure that would allow water level manipulation to enhance wildlife management efforts. Nest boxes have been placed on the northern portion of the pond to enhance opportunities for cavity nesting waterfowl. Wild rice was planted to increase food and cover for migratory waterbirds. An experimental introduction of largemouth bass was undertaken in 1955 by MDIFW. Since the introduction, severe oxygen deficiencies beneath the ice have re ulted in fish kills. The pre ence offish could not be established in 1963, and additional stocking of game fish is not recommended at this time. Directions

From Exit 25 of Route 95, take Route 125 west to Litchfield Road. Then take Litchfield Road north to Caesar Pond. Acth itics and

r 1cilities

The area provides for a variety of uses including: hunting, fishing, trapping, snowmobiling, boating, general outdoor recreation, and natural resource appreciation. An existing access road/parking lot to Caesar Pond is located at the northeast corner of the pond. Aquatic plants found throughout the pond are so abundant in places as to hinder travel by boat or canoe. Cac ar Pond Wildlife Management Area is owned and maintained by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Its operation and maintenance arc supported by your fees a well a revenue from the sa le of hunting and fishing licenses, and federal monies under the Federal Aid in Wildlife Re toration Program. MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Photo by Mark Lalli

\\I\ Rules

Hunting/Trapping Unless otherwise provided, WMAs are open to the hunting and trapping of all wild birds and animal under the provisions of state and federal laws and regulations. Motor Vehicles: The operation of any motor vehicle, excluding motorboats, within the boundaries of any WMA is prohibited except: a. on roads not posted as closed or restricted, b. on trails designated for their use, c. in other areas where their u e is specifically autho rized. Camping/Fires: Camping and open fires on WMAs are prohibited except at designated campsite . Swimming: Swimming on WMAs is prohibited except at designated locations. Other Storage of personal property, cutting of live or dead trees, extraction or removal of and or gravel, and unauthorized disposal of any material , by-products, or waste are prohibited on WM As without written permission of the Regional Wildlife Biologist. I< r \

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rma

To obtain further information about Caeser Pond Wildlife Management Area please contact: Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 270 Lyons Road, Sidney, ME 043309711. Spring 2002 23

Beginning With Habitat -

A andscape A proach to /_ Open Space Planning By Bob Humphrey "What do you want your town to look like in 50 years?" That's how Gary Lamb, a wildlife biologist and landscape planner working for the Department starts out his presentations to local communities on the Beginning With Habitat project. For a little over a year, Lamb has been working on a cooperative mapping i-j~ that incorporates wi ldlife habitat, unique natura"r!re~ ~ o r important natural resources into a GIS (geograp ic information systems) data base. Digital data and maps are then provided to town planners, planning boards, conservation commissions, and others, working on land use planning and conservation at the

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local level. The maps serve as an import tool for communities updating or deve~ing comprehensive plans or open space plans .. The primary impetus for this project is the rapidly changing face of Maine's landscape, particularly in southern Maine. This part of the state has the greatest biological diversity, the most rapid population growth, and the smallest amount of protected open space. State agencies and private conservation groups recognize that without proper planning and foresight, many of these habitats, with their associated native plants and animals, and the recreational activities that we enjoy, could be lost forever. A number of regulations and mechanisms currently exist to protect certain habitats or species. But most apply to specific units or locales, and fail to take into account the "big picture" - the entire landscape. By taking a landscape approach, participating entities hope to a\klress cumulative impacts from legal dev ments and create a working landscape th ill maximize benefits to town residents, w ·1e still providing adequate habitat for wi~fe.

The program began taking shape about three years ago when the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife the Department of Conservation, aine Natural Areas Program (MNAP), ine State Planning Office, U.S. Fish a Wildlife Service (USFWS), Maine udubon Society, Southern Maine Reg· nal Planning Commission, and the Wells tional Estuarine Research Reserve agreed to consolidate their data provid a single database of information to guid Janning by towns. These groups continue to serve as the primary coalition shaping l future of the Beginning with Habitat projec . In February 01, the coalition produced its first set o aps, using the Town of Kennebun s a pilot. By year's end, they had -com Ieted maps for 13 towns in York Cou able much of southern aine. Meanwhile, Lamb set ou o deliver the maps and explain their fun ion and purpose to interested parties . om Maine Audubon has worked witH to get the message out on how to c serve habitat in a developing landscape. Representatives of the Southern Maine

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24 MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002

Planning Commission have also assisted in fielding questions from their towns regarding specific local strategies that can be employed to maintain wildlife habitat. This year the Beginning with Habitat coalition has targeted 30 towns throughout southern and mid-coast Maine. Ultimately, the plan is to provide all the organized towns in Maine with the information and tools they need to conserve wildlife and plant habitat.

The Maps The concept behind Beginning with Habitat is to provide towns with the necessary information - multiple "layers" or maps of natural resource data - to design an open-space landscape. These consist of several layers of information added to a base map, derived from l: 125,000-scale U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps. These layers or maps are provided in both hardcopy and Mylar form so that town officials can "mix and match" the information as they consider different landscape planning issues. The information is also made available in digital form to towns working with GIS. The first layer consists of Riparian Habitats. This includes buffered wetlands and watercourses derived from National Wetlands Inventory maps produced by the USFWS, and ponds, rivers, and streams from USGS I :24,000 maps. Great Ponds, rivers, and wetlands at least

IO acres in size are surrounded by a 250' buffer; streams by a 75' buffer. Lamb refers to the ri parian habitat as the skeleton of the entire landscape. These are important because they provide habitat for a large number of species, often provide connectivity between other ,_ Large Undeveloped Habitat Blocks habitats, and provide benefits to gered or threatened species). The maps water quality and fisheries habitat. include modeled information on imporThe second layer, High Value Plant tant habitat for 64 of these trust species and Animal Habitats, contains informathat regularly occur in the Gui f of Maine tion on a variety of natural resources of watershed and are considered a priority statewide significance monitored or profor protection. tected by various state and federal agenis the first time that agencies have This cies. (See Figure 1) come together to produce one common The MNAP contributes Rare or map of their habitat priorities to guide Exemp lary Natural Communities, and local landscape conservation efforts. Rare Plant Locations; the Department Together the riparian areas and contributes information on Mapped important habitats begin to address the Habitat and C~nfirmed Species conservation needs of many of Maine's Locations. native plant and animal populations. The USFWS contributes High Value However, they are not enough to protect Habitat for Priority Trust Species (Trust many of the mammals with large home Species include all migratory birds, ranges or those animals that need large anadromous, catadromous, and certain expanses of intact interior forest or large coastal fishes, and federally listed endan-

Spring 2002

maps are not intended to prevent or impede development. All parties in the Beginning with Habitat coalition acknowledge that deve lopment is an integral part of the future of Maine's local communities. The key is directing that development toward areas that will have the sma ll est impact on open space, w ildli fe, wild li fe habitat, and natural communities. By providing the most up-to-date information on wildlife and plant habitat to local communities, the Beginning with Habitat coalition can help towns make better, more-informed decisions to guide the ir fut ure growth. open grasslands to persist. Bill Krohn (US Cooperative Fish and Wildli fe Unit), who provided the framework for the landscape model, added large, undeveloped blocks to the mix. The third layer shows Large Blocks of relatively undeveloped habitats. "These large areas of forest and farmland are valuable to species requiring large areas of habitat, are increasingly rare, and we need to think strategical ly on how to keep them intact," says Lamb. The Maine Natural Areas Program, in conducting the analysis, buffers roads, development, and other fragmenting features on the landscape with a 500-foot buffer and generates a map that shows the relative sizes of large undeveloped blocks. Information is also provided to the towns on blocks that are considered to be of statewide significance because of the ir size. For instance, undeveloped areas of 2,000 acres or more are very rare in the south coastal band of Maine. "This is very useful in terms of the planning process," says Lamb, "because it gives you a landscape perspective and comparative eye on the respective contributions of undeveloped lands." It also shows how large blocks may overlap several towns and suggests the need for more regional planning efforts and cooperation between individual communities. Information on Conservat ion Lands, when available, is also provided to the towns . Conservation lands can be Feder-

26 MAINE Fish and Wildlife

a l, state, or town-owned land; land owned by private conservation organizations like The Nature Conservancy, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, and local land trusts; land under conservation easements and land designated under the Tree Growth, Farmland, or Open Space Tax Law. By showing what is a lready protected, this map layer allows munic ipalities to see "anchor" parcels from wh ich to build larger conservation holdings; it a lso allows them to see "gaps" in the connectivity of the landscape and to try to maintain corridors between areas. These undeveloped corridors are particularly important for wildlife with large home ranges that travel across the landscape.

Uses "These maps are intended to provide a tool to guide local planning efforts," says Lamb. He cautions, however, that the maps are not intended to be used as a zoning tool or for making permit rev iew or other regulatory decisions. While mapped information is the best available, is not always accurate, because some mapped habitats have not been rigorous ly field checked. Lamb notes that towns can use the information to determine when technical assistance by the Department, MNAP or USFWS staff may be needed on proposed development. It is also important to note that these

Figure 1 MNAP Rare or Exemplary Natural Communities Grasslands Upland Forests I Woodlands / Barrens Estuarine/ Saltwater Habitats Freshwater Forested and Non-Forested Wetlands MNAP Rare Plant Locations Rare Plant Habitat Rare Plant Point Locations MDlF&W Mapped Habitats and Confirmed Species Locations Essential Wildlife Habitats - Piping Plover, Least Tern, Roseate Tern and Bald Eagle Significant Wildlife Habitats Deer Wintering Areas Shorebird Habitat Inland Waterfowl / Wading Bird Habitat Tidal Waterfowl I Wading Bird Habitat Other Rare Wildlife Data Rare Animal Habitat Rare Animal Point Locations High Value Habitat for USFWS Priority Trust Species Freshwater Wetlands (non-forested) and lakes/rivers Grass, Shrub and Bare Ground Marine/Estuarine Intertidal Wetland Forest (Includes Forested Wetlands) Spring 2002

By Christopher J. Short Hatchery Supervisor The Phillips State Hatchery was recently awarded a 24-acre land grant from the Elizabeth and Hugh Montgomery estate. The grant is the culmination of agreements worked out over the last two years between Elizabeth Montgomery and her representatives, the Phillips Hatchery manager, the Montgomery estate surveyor and forester, and an attorney for the state. The grant was the fourth such land donation received by the state from the Montgomery's and Elizabeth's family since the hatchery's beginning in 1929. The new parcel of land increased the hatchery's total acreage to 89 acres. The location of the new property will help to ensure the protection of the hatchery 's watershed from future development and pollution. Elizabeth Montgomery was presented a framed recognition art print and a certificate of appreciation from the Phillips hatchery manager over a cordial tea held at the Montgomery home. She graciously accepted the print and certificate for her husband, Hugh. She said that, like herself, that he was very interested in preserving the future integrity and longevity of the Phillips hatchery. For me, as manager of the Phillips Hatchery and her neighbor, it has been a persona l pleasure to have met and known Mrs. Montgomery. She represents the unheralded constituency whose genuine concern and quiet generosity allows many others to continue to enjoy Maine's outdoor heritage.

This path runs through the 24 acres of land donated to the Phillips State Hatchery by the Elizabeth and Hugh Montgomery Estate. Chris Short Photo

. . .The new Phillips Fish Hatchery Phillips Hatchery History Th is hatchery, one of 7 state-owned facilities, is inconspicuously nestled in the rolling hill s of the Sandy River bordering the Madrid town line. The land that comprises the hatchery and its buffer zones was acquired in six deeds between l 929 and 1971 . In the 72 years since the hatchery 's inception, the Phillips hatchery has been operated under only five managers. The hatchery was originally built as an earthen pool production facility that supplied brook trout to area ponds and streams. The early days of the

MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002 27

facility saw the manager acting as a one-man crew responsible for all phases of daily operations. Other facilities provided help during spawning and stocking seasons. ln 1964, the hatchery became the state's official brook trout broodstock facility. The pond below the hatchery and the watershed above the hatchery were reclaimed in an effort to rid the water supply of possible diseases. ln that same year, the earthen pools at Phillips began to be replaced with concrete raceways. In 1981, a fire swept through the old hatchery building. Eggs already spawned that fall were kept in make-shift incubators in the cellar until they were ready to go into raceways - that year's production was saved. In 1982, hatchery personnel from around the state worked to construct a new hatchery in Phillips. The new hatchery produced brook trout eggs taken from a strain originally brought to Maine from Pennsylvania in the early 1960s. The strain became known as the Maine Hatchery Strain, and became the mainstay of stocked brook trout until 1996. This scene is inside the egg hatching room at the Phillips Hatchery. The Philips Hatchery and its systems remained Mark Latti photo much the same until 1994. Since then, new construction projects and system innovations have been incorporated to update and improve the facility. A new strain of brook trout is also being developed here that will improve genetic diversity and longevity in hatchery brook trout in the fisheries management program. Over its long history, the Phillips hatchery has supplied many other states and foreign countries with brook trout eggs, contributing to the production of new brook trout for their stocking programs.

Inside a covered hatchery pool run at the Phillips Hatchery. Covered pools are more efficient and deter predators. Mark Latt1 Photo

28 MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002

Owl Pellets Answers From Page 16 I.

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OF MAINE

Real Estate for the Real World-

Route Century 21 Nason

Century 21 First Choice Realtv

Winslow. ME

Gorham. Windham & Standish, ME

Century 21 Newson Associates

Century 21 Northeast Associates

Kittery, ME

Westbrook, ME

Century 21 Action Rea lty

Century 21 Baribeau

Rumford, ME

Brunswick, ME

Century 21 Whittemore

Century 21 Samia

Skowhegan, ME

Sanford & Wells, ME

Century 21 Ames Whittemore

Century 21 Atlantic Realty

Pittsfield, ME

York, ME

Century 21 Venture Ltd.

Century 21 Advantai:e

Augusta, ME

Lewiston. ME

Century 21 Barbara Patterson

Century 21 Muzzv Real Estate

South Berwick. ME

Greenville. ME

Century 21 Alliance

Century 21 Surette

Gardiner, ME

Waterville, ME

Century 21 Coui:hlin Agency

Century 21 At River Town For trout fishing purist~, there's nothing better than one of Vermont's cold water streams. Chock full of twists and turns-with a few dozen covered bridges thrown in for good measurL~our intimate brooks harbor an abundance of brookies, rainbows and

Centurv 21 Shore & Countrv

Century 21 Queen City

Topsham. ME

Bangor, ME

~ VERMONT I ~

browns. For more information, call for a FISH & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT free Fishing Guide. 1-BOO · VERMONT I www.,ttishandwildlife.com

Oakland, ME

N. Hampden , ME

We have 23 offices located around our diversified state that are specia lized in many different avenues for all of your real estate needs. Please check out our statewide website. It will enab le you to reach any of the above listed offices for all the services they provide.

www.Century2l.MaineBrokers.com or www.MaineBrokers.Tripod.com

F A 213

Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.

• GUIDED FLY FISHING • FAMILY VACATIONS • • • •

INSTRUCTION

MOOSE, LOON, WILDFLOWER FIELD TRIPS SCENIC PLANE RIDES HUNTING, FISHING ICE FISHING, CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Located in Allagash Wilderness Region north of Baxter State Park. Fullservice lodge, seven log cabins on Haymock, Spider, and Cliff Lake (T8R11, T9R11 , T9R12). American Plan or Housekeeping. Indoor plumbing available. (MAILING ADDRESS ONLY) P.O.

Box 696FG,

207-528-2855 MAINE Fish and Wildlife

OPEN YEAR ROUND

PATTEN, ME

04765

(LET IT RING!) Spring 2002

HUNT BIRDS YEAR ROUND!

• ~ \\Un Hunt,no n • '1\.\t'C" e, rl'ei

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

~,,.

e,-~

cbartes Farm Tra;J ROME, ME

Malcolm Charles, ' Registered Maine Guide

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PHEASANTS • QUAIL • CHUKAR PARTRIDGE Over 200 Acres of Upland Bird Cover

HUNT OR TRAIN YOUR DOGS OVER LIVE BIRDS Full or 1/2 Day Hunts • Up to 4 Hunters Per Group Gu ided Hunts with Maine Gu ide & Dog Available

FOR MORE INFO CALL 207-397-HUNT(4868) e-mail : pointers@tdstelme.net

website : www.m int.net/pointersrun

Maine Fish & Wildlife

Outdoor Roster ·. 1

· North of Rangeley between Kennebago Lake and Little Kennebago Lake

Your Hosts Ol ive & Dean Paisley Registered Maine Guide Bear - Deer - Moose - Coyote Phone 207-444-5379 Eagle Lake \\ \

Camp Rental

,{ ' 'lflJt I

Firearms - Bow - Black Powder

KENNEBAGO RIVER KAMPS

Fishing

• Fly Fish for native Salmon & Brook Trout in Kennebago's rivers & lakes • Excellent Deer and Grouse Hunting • Snowmobiling on ITS 84 and 89 • 3 Housekeeping Camps • Gated Access • Reasonable Rates I Write : Kennebago River Kamps, R. Hammond PO Box 677 , Rangeley 04970 207-864-2402

To arrange for your advertising to appear in this listing, contact:

on FISH RIVER LAKE Northern Maine 's Last Frontier Portage, Maine 04768

M AI E Fi sh and Wildli fe

George Pulkkinen Maine Fish & Wildlife Magazine PO Box 1457, Yarmouth, ME 04096 Telephone: 1-800-276-0883

Phone 207-435-6156 Spri ng 2002

HOMEOF1HE

ATLANTIC SALMON The Main Southwest Miramichi River HOWARD, N.B. CANADA

Since 1946, we have provided superb, personalized service to anglers of Atlantic salmon, brook trout, and shad. We are located 25 miles SW of Miramichi City and 70 miles NE of Fredericton, NB.

• Salmon Pools (Beats) Our four privately owned pools provide five star wet and dry fly .fishing. Anglers have the option of wading or fishing from a boat. We have stocked our private, spring-fed pond with brook trout.

• Accommodations The main lodge and cottages overlook our private pools. Each building has been meticulously finished and maintained.

• Reservations PLEASE CALL OR WRITE:

Martyn Vickers 122 Winthrop Street Augusta, ME 04330 207-623-4879 vickers@gwi.net

Satellite TV, phone, fax and e-mail are available

• Rates Our package includes lodging, meals, housekeeping, use of four private pools, guide services, and day canoe trips. The charge is $175 US/day/angler from April 15th - September 7th; $250 US/day/angler from September 8th - October 15th. The refundable Canadian tax is 15% of the daily charge. There is a 10% discount for bookings of five or more days.

Please visit our website at www.miramichisalmon.com MAINE Fish and Wildlife

Spring 2002

With over 60 years of experience, and three levels of the most extensive selection of outdoor

We have the largest selection of top quality firearms, ammunition, reloading equipment, components, scopes and accessorie on the east coast! Our archery department feawres a full line of compound and recurve bows as well as crossbows, arrow , targets, tree stands and accessories for both hunters and target shooters. Our fishing clepanment caters to saltwater and freshwater fishing endrnstl5ts, including an extensive selection specifically for the Ay fisher. In addition to our diverse selection of rods, reels and lures, we stock dowmiggers, electric motors, electronic fish finders, canoes and all the accessrnies.

EVERYTHING FOR THE OUTDOORS!

KITTERY TRADING POSf

Open Daily 9-9, undays 10-6 • Rte 1 Kittery, ME • 207-439-TOO • 1-888-KTP-MAJ;-...E (58~-6246) • WW\.\.kitterytradingpost.com