News from Scientists at the USGS Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
Monday, November 5, 2007
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Dwindling seaducks linked to demise of oyster bars Matthew Perry and David Kidwell were interviewed for the November edition of the The Chesapeake Bay Journal regarding their research on the food habits of seaducks in the Chesapeake Bay. The decline of oyster reefs in the bay influences the quality and quantity of food that the seaducks enjoy, especially the hooked mussel. Food is one factor along with oil, contaminants, hunting, loss of habitat, and higher nutrients in the Bay that could be impacting populations of ducks. The Sea Duck Joint Venture, a coalition between agencies in Canada and the United States (including USGS), are partners working to learn more about seaducks. At Patuxent, scientists have been studying the decline of surf scoters and other diving ducks as they observe and record changes in the Bay. Dr. Perry heads up the Atlantic Seaduck Project and Mr. Kidwell recently finished his master’s degree research on the surf scoter while working at Patuxent on the Project. See the full story here. Contact: Matthew Perry , Laurel, MD, 301-497-5622 |
Missing buzz Scientist, Sam Droege, at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center has been studying nature’s pollinators, particularly native bee species. As reported in the November 6 Baltimore Sun, the location for one of these studies has been beneath the wide power transmission lines on the Center property. The low shrubs growing there provide excellent bee habitat. Pepco removes all tall growing trees every 3-4 years under Patuxent's direction, permitting a unique flora of shrubs, low growing trees, and vines. Pepco and Patuxent are working together to see how landowners can manage their property to help the habitat of the pollinators. For the complete article please go here. Contact Sam Droege, Laurel, MD, 301-497-5753 |
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| February 5, 2007 |