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Trends in wintering canvasback populations at Catahoula Lake, Louisiana

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Abstract

Aerial survey data (1968-1989) and water gauge readings (1958-1989) were examined to detennine trends in and relationships between canvasback (Aythya valisineria) populations and water levels at Catahoula Lake, Louisiana. Wintering canvasback populations at Catahoula Lake have increased over the past 21 years. A peak population estimate of 78,000 canvasbacks was recorded in January 1988. There was a significant relationship between increases in wintering canvasback numbers and increased November water levels. No significant changes in December or January water levels nor relationships between wintering canvasback numbers and December or January water levels could be detected. In recent years, Catahou1a Lake has become one of the most important canvasback wintering areas in North America. We conclude that the increased availability of open water feeding habitat has been a major factor in the increased usage of Catahoula Lake by canvasbacks.

Study Area

Publication type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Title Trends in wintering canvasback populations at Catahoula Lake, Louisiana
Volume 43
Year Published 1989
Language English
Publisher Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
Contributing office(s) Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Description 8 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Conference publication
Larger Work Title Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
First page 396
Last page 403
Conference Title 43rd Annual Conference of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
Conference Location St. Louis, Missouri
Conference Date October 29-November 1, 1989
Country United States
State Louisiana
Other Geospatial Catahoula Lake
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