Type: report
Article abstract: Surveys for the endangered Least Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii pusillus) were conducted at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton (MCBCP or Base), California, between 10 May and 27 July 2012. Surveys in 2012 began later than usual (mid-May vs. late March/early April) because of contract delays. Consequently, data collected in 2012 may not be directly comparable to other years and represents a minimum population estimate. Drainages containing riparian habitat suitable for vireos were surveyed two to four times. A minimum of 636 male vireos and 40 transient vireos were detected on 20 out of the 23 drainages/sites surveyed. Ninety-three percent of all vireo territories occurred on the seven most populated drainages, with the Santa Margarita River containing 60% of all territories on Base. Sixty-nine percent of male vireos were confirmed as paired.
Number of pages: 96
Authors: Lynn, Suellen; Kus, Barbara;
Year: 2012
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to document the status of Least Bell's Vireo at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in San Diego County, California. Specifically, our goals were to (1) determine the size and composition of the vireo population at the Base, (2) characterize habitat used by vireos, (3) band a subset of vireos to facilitate the estimation of vireo survivorship and movement, and (4) assess the short-term effects of giant reed removal on vireo fecundity, nest success, and productivity by intensively monitoring vireos within established nest monitoring sites that had recently undergone giant reed removal (2008) and at reference sites in which giant reed had been removed 13-15 years earlier, between 1997 and 1999. When combined with data from other years, these data will inform natural resource managers about the status of this endangered species at MCBCP, and guide modification of land use and management practices as appropriate to ensure the species’ continued existence.
Prepared for: Assistant Chief of Staff, Environmental Security U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton;
Prepared by: U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center;
Keywords: endangered species; least Bell's Vireo; Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton;
Species: Least Bell's vireo
Vegetation communities: riparian forest & scrub
Threats: Parasitism/disease