Long-term demographic analysis of the Cape Sable seaside sparrow (1992–2021)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service
By: , and 

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Abstract

The Cape Sable seaside sparrow (Ammospiza maritima mirabilis) is an endangered species that has experienced a population decline of more than 60% since 1981. Despite its critical population status, a statistically robust analysis of the species’ demographic rates utilizing all data has yet to be completed (Benscoter et al. 2021). Furthermore, long-term population processes in response to hydrologic and environmental conditions have not been evaluated for this species. To address these substantial gaps in knowledge, 30 years of demographic data were synthesized to assess population dynamics of this imperiled species using an integrated population model (IPM). Three demographic data types (range-wide counts, capture-mark-recapture, nest monitoring) were incorporated into a unified IPM to evaluate demographic processes and predict population trajectories. The following were calculated: (1) annual estimates of annual population size, survival, and fecundity; (2) coefficient estimates of hydrologic and environmental variables on survival and fecundity; (3) estimates of annual population growth and their correlation with demographic rates; and (4) a Bayesian population viability analysis (BPVA) that includes predicted population size, demographic rates, and extinction risks ten years into the future.
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype Other Government Series
Title Long-term demographic analysis of the Cape Sable seaside sparrow (1992–2021)
Year Published 2023
Language English
Publisher U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Contributing office(s) Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Description 25 p.
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