Type: report

Article abstract: Merkel & Associates, Inc conducted the fifth annual monitoring assessment for the Salt Creek Coastal Cactus Wren Habitat Restoration Project. Quantitative monitoring was performed on May 8, 2014 (bird survey) and September 2, 2014 (vegetation survey). Information from qualitative assessments of the site was obtained in April, July, and October of 2014 and is provided with this report (Appendix 3). Avian point counts and vegetation coverage/cactus height was acquired and analyzed for 6 preestablished monitoring stations. These monitoring stations include two restored areas (Stations 1 and 2), two areas that have had previous records of coastal cactus wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) occupation (Stations 3 and 4), and two areas that were assumed to be suitable for cactus wren occupation but no wrens had been observed prior to this study (Stations 5 and 6). The purpose of this report is to provide information in regards to changes in habitat and avian use over time (approximately 5 years) at each of the monitoring stations. This report serves as the final annual report of a 5-year monitoring program.