Fisher Camera Efforts: District staff members, conflict staff members, other internal staff members, collaborating partners, and tribes have all been involved with setting up various camera scent stations over the month of October. They hope to catch a glimpse of a state endangered fisher, a weasel that was extirpated (gone) from Washington until recent efforts to release individuals into the wilds of the state. Learn more here.
Probiotic Bat Capture in Darrington: Biologist Licence participated in a second round of captures at a Yuma myotis and big brown bat roost in Darrington. These captures are associate with a white-nose syndrome research project aimed at determining the efficacy of a probiotic treatment (among other things) to this devastating disease.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFW
A grouchy Yuma myotis processed by the Darrington capture team.
Red Fox Trapping on San Juan Island: Biologist Licence co-lead a capture effort with Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Haman targeting red foxes on San Juan Island. This project was initiated to conduct a baseline health assessment of the San Juan foxes for comparison to the endangered Cascade red fox population. Additionally, this provided an opportunity to optimize an immobilization drug dosing protocol and provided experience for a University of Washington PhD student currently planning a research project to conduct similar work on Cascade red fox. Outwitting a fox proved to be as challenging as one may guess! However, the team did not leave empty handed, and gained some valuable information and relationships. Many thanks to the participants that made this effort possible.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWA yearling female red fox processed by the capture team on San Juan Island.
Bat Recon on Whidbey Island: Biologist Licence met with a north Whidbey Island landowner and Washington State Parks biologist to survey a bat roost in their attic and provide recommendations for supporting the local bats in this urban landscape. The visit generated great ideas and goodwill that appears to be formulating into a volunteer project with numerous roosting sites and bat boxes installed throughout the area.
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Photo by WDFWState Parks Biologist Morse assists with a bat exit count on Whidbey Island.
Non-native Species Management: Biologist Licence collected multiple individuals of non-native species for documentation, sampling, and removal from the environment. A unique example is the detection of an eastern United States species, Bombus impatiens (common eastern bumble bee), at a nursery and greenhouse near La Conner. This is the first it has been detected between Bellingham and Seattle, and it has started to invade into Washington from Canada because of Canadian efforts to import this species to support crop production. Similarly, a snapping turtle was found in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, it was removed with the help of a local veterinarian and swabbed for Emydomyces testavorans, a turtle shell disease fungus.
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Photo by WDFWBombus impatiens (common eastern bumble bee).
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Photo by WDFWSnapping turtle.
Providing Education and Outreach
Ebey Island Pheasant Release: Wildlife Area Manager Boehm meets and greets early morning hunters during the pheasantseason opener at Ebey Island. A fog-free morning set the stage for a great day of hunting. Manager Boehm answered questions, explained safety factors, and greeted new and returning hunters to the start of another season. The parking area was full and busy throughout the day.
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Photo by WDFWSnoqualmie Wildlife Area Manager greets pheasant opener for the 2023 season.
Mariposa Copper Survey: Biologists Anderson and Combs surveyed for mariposa copper butterflies in The Cascade Range. A study is underway looking at different populations and genetics of the mariposa/Makah copper complex. WDFW is partnering with Xerces and academic partners to examine this for Species of Greatest Conservation Needs and consideration in relation to the State Wildlife Action Plan. More can be found here.
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Anderson with a male mariposa copper.
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Anderson with a male mariposa copper.
Bumble Bee Survey: Biologist Anderson surveyed for bumble bees at high elevation sites as part of the collaboration of WDFW and Xerces Society. The surveys are part of the Pacific Northwest Bumble Bee Atlas.
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Photo by WDFWA black-tailed bumble bee sluggish due to being chilled for pictures.
Probiotic Bat Capture in Darrington: Biologist Licence participated in a second round of captures at a Yuma myotis and big brown bat roost in Darrington. These captures are associated with a white-nose syndrome research project aimed at determining the efficacy of a probiotic treatment (among other things) to this devastating disease.
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Photo by WDFWA grouchy Yuma myotis is processed by the Darrington capture team.
Biologist Licence co-lead a capture effort with Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Haman targeting red foxes on San Juan Island. This project was initiated to conduct a baseline health assessment of the San Juan foxes for comparison to the endangered Cascade red fox population. Additionally, this provided an opportunity to optimize an immobilization drug dosing protocol and provided experience for a University of Washington PhD student currently planning a research project to conduct similar work on Cascade red fox. Outwitting a fox proved to be as challenging as one may guess, but the team did not leave empty handed and gained some valuable information and relationships. Many thanks to the participants that made this effort possible.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWA yearling female red fox is processed by the capture team on San Juan Island.
Bat Recon on Whidbey Island: Biologist Licence met with a north Whidbey Island landowner and Washington State Parks biologist to survey a bat roost in their attic and provide recommendations for supporting the local bats in this urban landscape. The visit generated great ideas and good will that appears to be formulating into a volunteer project with numerous roosting sites and bat boxes installed throughout the area.
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Photo by WDFWState Parks Biologist Morse assists with a bat exit count on Whidbey Island.
Providing Recreation Opportunities
Access Meeting for GMU 418 Elk Hunters: Private Lands Biologist Wingard and District Wildlife Biologist Waddell hosted a meeting for archery and muzzleloader hunters who successfully drew a Quality Bull special permit in Game Management Unit (GMU) 418. For several years, Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has partnered with WDFW to allow free motorized access to specific areas on SPI lands for GMU 418 elk hunters. Hunters attending the meeting were provided with details about the North Cascades elk herd, access rules, and a key to unlock specific SPI gates during their hunt. The Department is grateful to Sierra Pacific Industries for this partnership and the tremendous access opportunity they provide to our special permit elk hunters.
Providing Education and Outreach
Biologist Licence coordinated with community members of the City of Langley to provide brochures on the harms of feeding wildlife. Brochures will be mailed to the community with monthly utility bills and will aid in discussions to investigate implementation of a local ordinance against feeding wildlife in the city.
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Photo by WDFWFeeding wildlife is harmful brochure.
Band-tailed Pigeon Surveys: Region 4 biologists conducted annual band-tailed pigeon surveys at select mineral sites from July 10 to July 20. These surveys are essential and influence the annual season and bag-limit frameworks for band-tailed pigeons.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWPigeons are counted at this site in Skagit County as they fly from their roosts to a mineral site on an adjacent ridge.
North American Bat Monitoring Program Detector Deployments: Region 4 Wildlife staff members deployed overnight bat detectors at multiple sites throughout the region as a part of the North American Bat Monitoring Program. This is an ongoing continent-wide effort to monitor bat distribution and population trends.
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Photo by WDFWA bat detector out by the water.
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Photo by WDFWBat detectors deployed in various habitat types in Snohomish County.
White Nose Syndrome Treatment of Bat Maternity Colony: District 13 Wildlife Biologist Licence collaborated with the Diversity division, U. S. Geological Survey researchers, Snohomish County Public Works staff members, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists, private landowners, and volunteers to capture, measure, mark, and provide an oral white nose syndrome (WNS) vaccine to a mixed colony (predominantly Yuma Myotis) of bats in the Everett area. Over 100 bats were captured and treated and will be monitored by a solar powered pit tag reader system installed on the roost site to help determine efficacy of the treatment.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWCapture team preps for evening bat emergence and oral vaccine being administered.
Lopez Island Bat Reconnaissance: District 13 Biologist Licence, joined by a Samish Indian Nation biologist, and a local non-profit research organization (KWIAHT) investigated bat roosts reported by partners and the public on Lopez Island. Information on bats on Lopez Island is limited and filling in these knowledge gaps are a priority for the district. Three new roosts for Townsend’s big-eared bats, big brown bats, and myotis species were documented on this visit. Additionally, guano was collected for myotis species identification.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWAn occupied nest box and historic barn are monitored for bats. Biologists Licence, Beebe (Samish Indian Nation), and Barsh (KWIAHT) discuss the colony and its history/future with a private landowner.
Bumble Bee Surveys in Snohomish County: District 13, with the help of Diversity staff members, completed two-point count surveys and two habitat surveys at Goat Flats on Three Fingers Mountain. These surveys are associated with Pacific Northwest Bumblebee Atlas and are an effort to monitor bumble bee distribution, population trends, and important pollinator habitat associations.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWBumble bee surveyor at goat flats and vial with bumble bee and associated host plant.
Mountain Goat Surveys: Districts 13 and 14 wildlife biologists conducted mountain goat surveys in the Darrington and Mt. Baker areas. These surveys are typically flown annually to derive population estimates and assist with management by WDFW and tribal co-managers.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFWView of Mt. Baker and Glacier Peak from the helicopter during a mountain goat survey.
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Photo by WDFWSauk-Suiattle Wildlife Program Manager Price, Licence, and Assistant District Wildlife Biologist Collins with Tulalip Tribes.
Fisher Surveys in King County: District 12, with the help of partners, took down cameras from monitoring stations targeting fishers. Learn more about WDFW efforts with fisher here.
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Photo by WDFWFisher (Pekania pennanti) is a member of the weasel family and has been found in King County.
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Photo by WDFWZebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus) on District 12 fisher survey.
Common Loon Management Efforts: District 12 put up new outreach signage developed with Communications and Public Engagement (CAPE) staff members and printed by partners at Campbell Global Timber Company.
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Photo by WDFWNew common loon outreach signage thanks to Campbell Global Timber Company.
Providing Recreation Opportunities
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Photo by WDFWMowing these fields improves access for recreation users and reduces the prevalence of invasive weeds.
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Photo by WDFWMowing continued on the Stillwater and Cherry Valley Units of the Snoqualmie Wildlife Area by a contractor.
Fall Bear Hunt Opportunities: The Region 4 Private Lands Access Program team prepared a site in Whatcom County for public access during the month of August and early September for behind the gate vehicle access for bear hunters. This private timber land access opportunity relies on good behavior and rule compliance from the public. This bear hunting opportunity is accessed through the Hunt by Reservation system on WDFW’s website.
Summer Mowing: The Region 4 Private Lands Access Program team mowed several sites to reduce the prevalence of reed canary grass and make portions of properties better for waterfowl and waterfowl hunting.
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Photo by WDFW
Providing Conflict Prevention and Education
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFW
Assisting Deer in Distress: Local Conflict Specialist Seitz, Law Enforcement Officer Andrus, and Wildlife Biologist Moore responded to a report of a male deer in distress in Whatcom County. The buck’s antlers were entangled in heavy duty polyester garden netting which was limiting his ability to forage and move about naturally. The team immobilized the deer and removed the netting. Reports of the deer looking much happier have already been received from several residents.
Conducting Business Operations and Policy
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Photo by WDFWA new security gate was installed at the Lake Terrell Unit of the Whatcom Wildlife Area. This gate provides better security for staff members and equipment, as it separates the public area of the unit from WDFW staff member area.
White Nose Syndrome Probiotic Bat Captures: District 13 Wildlife Biologist Licence, Diversity Program staff members, US Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) biologists, and WDFW Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Haman gathered at an annual study site in the Darrington area to capture and sample a maternity colony of Yuma myotis. Although captures were relatively low on the first capture night, team spirits were high, and the bats appeared healthy. This research effort is a novel approach to utilizing naturally occurring bacteria to reduce impact of the causative agent of White Nose Syndrome (WNS). One more capture event is planned for later this summer.
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Photo by WDFWA Yuma myotis at release sporting some new wrist jewelry that will serve as a unique identifier.
Island Marble Butterfly (Euchloe ausonides insulanus) Monitoring: Wildlife Biologist Licence, Diversity Program staff, and numerous other partners wrapped up a productive field season of island marble butterfly (IMB) and host plant habitat monitoring. With a significant reduction of host plant habitat in a core occurrence area for IMB this year, it has been a busy year for dispersal which has resulted in IMB occupancy at two new Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA) properties! WDFW and USFWS staff members piloted numerous new tools for habitat monitoring including a Rapid Habitat Assessment protocol and drone surveys.
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Photo by WDFWAn IMB caterpillar amidst the poppies at Cattle Point.
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Photo by WDFWExcited field crew celebrates a newly occupied CCAA site.
Sand Verbena Moth (Copablepharon fuscum) Surveys: Opportunistic and targeted surveys for species of Greatest Conservation Need, sand verbena moths, on San Juan Island were successful this year with numerous moths captured and documented. District 13 Biologist Licence, Diversity Program staff members, and partners captured moths via net and ultraviolet moth traps. These surveys help document and inform our understanding of species distribution for an understudied and charismatic invertebrate.
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Photo by WDFWFirst moth trap check of the trip.
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Photo by WDFWSand verbena moth in a collection vial.
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Photo by Photo by C. Caldwell.Combs on sunset moth patrol.
Propertius Duskywing (Erynnis propertius) Surveys on Orcas Island: Diversity staff members, District Wildlife Biologist Licence, and Lummi Nation biologists conducted a second round of propertius duskywing surveys associated with a Competitive State Wildlife Grant on Turtleback Mountain of Orcas Island. These “pre-treatment” surveys will provide a baseline indicator of duskywing presence prior to habitat improvement treatments to species host plant, Gary oaks. Once habitat improvements are completed, “post-treatment” surveys will be conducted to monitor any changes in the local duskywing population.
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Photo by WDFWWDFW and Lummi Nation Biologists revel in the first duskywing capture of the survey.
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Photo by WDFW
Blue Mountain Elk Calf Captures: District 13 Biologist Licence traveled across the state to join the top-notch capture team of the Dayton Game Management Unit (GMU) 162 to wrangle, collar, and collect data on numerous elk calves. One of the primary objectives of the study is to monitor survival and determine mortality causes of calves of the Blue Mountain elk herd.
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Photo by Photo by E. Moberg.
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Photo by WDFWMoberg and Licence celebrate the first of many calves captured and miles covered during the capture week.
Sooty Grouse Surveys: Region 4 district wildlife biologists completed the first year of surveys for sooty grouse using a protocol developed by Oregon State University and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Biologists will conduct listening surveys for male sooty grouse along predetermined routes each year from April into May. By listening for the distinctive calls of male sooty grouse, biologists can assess trends in abundance of grouse over time.
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Photo by WDFWA morning view along the North Fork Stillaguamish River during a sooty grouse survey.
Protected State Wildlife -Peregrine Falcon Climbing Closure in King County: District 12 Biologists Anderson and Smith spent some survey time in the field with volunteers from Urban Raptor Conservancy (URC). A very dedicated member of the URC has been keeping weekly tabs on a very popular King County climbing wall to monitor age and stage of young peregrine falcons. The four eyasses (chicks) should be fledging in the next two weeks. We thank the URC for their extra eyes and survey efforts as it really assists in providing a detailed tab on this and other falcon sites that are under pressure in King County. Appreciation also is extended to the broader climbing community, Washington Climber’s Coalition, State Parks, US Forest Service, and others for support and collaboration in nesting management efforts.
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Photo by WDFWPeregrine falcon feeding its young at a climbing wall eyrie in King County. Thanks to the climbing community, Washington Climber’s Coalition, State Parks, US Forest Service, and others for support and collaboration in nesting management efforts.
Washington Bat Working Group: There is a new working group that is a subcommittee of the Washington Bat Working Group. They will be examining bat box designs, efforts, outreach, research, and all things related to bat boxes. Biologist Anderson participated in the inaugural meeting.
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)-Habitat-Wildlife Program Culvert Replacement – Wildlife Considerations: District 12 Biologist Anderson and Waterfowl Biologist Hamer met with WDFW Habitat and WSDOT environmental leads regarding a project in the Grotto area of King County. At this site harlequin ducks, a species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) as outlined in the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), had a history of breeding season loafing and nesting at the site. The project and site were discussed specifically and visited. Due diligence surveys were conducted by the Habitat Program and WSDOT worked on implementation of the culvert replacement. The highlight was discussing consideration of harlequins and other SGCN in relation to other culvert/alteration of waterway projects, such as culvert replacement efforts, moving forward.
Providing Recreation Opportunities
The Region 4 Private Lands Access Program has spent several days this month partnering with Sierra Pacific Industries to remove dumped garbage from properties. Sierra Pacific Industries provides extensive recreational access to general public and additional access for special permit hunters and hunters who access their property through the Hunt by Reservation System. Garbage cleanups are a way to reduce the challenges that come with public access and encourage private timber companies to continue to allow public access. Some of these cleanups can be done by hand, but other require extensive planning and equipment.
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFW
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Photo by WDFW
The Region 4 Private Lands Access Program (PLAP) team recently finished planting the Bayview-Edison north and south hunt sites. PLAP has contracted with the landowner to lease 80 acres for waterfowl forage. This property was planted in pasture grass last fall. Over the winter, the sheet water built up and flooded out several zones and waterfowl foraged heavily on the growing grass. This spring in the flooded-out zones, the PLAP team prepared the ground and planted a mix of forage crops for wintering waterfowl that will increase the diversity of food resources on this property and provide more forage for waterfowl. The property is managed for hunting access as well. Washington Migratory Bird Stamp funds were used for this project.
Conserving Natural Landscapes
Restoration Project Coordinator Desmul and Environmental Planner Ballhorn with the Habitat Program spent a sunny morning on Spencer Island in the Snoqualmie Wildlife Area downloading level logger data to measure water temperature, depth, and salinity. The data will be used to help plan a restoration project on site.
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Photo by WDFW
Providing Education and Outreach
Restoration Project Coordinator Desmul and Assistant Regional Wildlife Program Manager Brokaw led two tours of Leque Island in the Skagit Wildlife Area, one for the community group Sound Water Stewards from Island County and one for the Habitat Strategic Initiative.
Snoqualmie Wildlife Area Truck Bay Construction: Wildlife Area Manager Boehm reported that the rebuilding of the truck bay for the Cherry Valley pheasant pen facility has been completed. The non-closing doors, sagging, miss-matched lumber, rotting posts, and countless “band-aid” fixes of the original truck bay required a complete rebuild. Boehm was contacted by Master Hunters Darin and Jon, a father-son team, that needed a project. After discussing timeframe, skills, and project requirements, the project was placed in their hands.
After producing a detailed design, the construction team demolished the old structure except for some original good posts. They completed the foundation, framing, wire wrap, groundwork, and door alignments over three weekends in April. After over 80 combined hours, they produced a new truck bay standing on the original footprint. This project reinforces the great work the Master Hunter volunteers provide, while supporting the goals of the Department of Fish and Wildlife. We hope this truck bay will last for many decades to come.
Butterfly Monitoring in San Juan County: District Wildlife Biologist Licence assisted Olympia staff members with monitoring multiple butterfly species including the island marble butterfly (IMB) and propertius duskywing on San Juan and Orcas islands respectively. This month marked the first day for a propertius duskywing monitoring and habitat restoration project on San Juan County Land Bank’s, Turtleback Mountain Preserve. The project is funded by a Competitive State Wildlife Grant. While on survey, biologists detected four propertius duskywings (mostly male) and discussed the next steps on the area designated for Gary oak woodland restoration. Staff members also completed the first round of IMB habitat monitoring at Cattle Point, Department of Natural Resources land as well as adult IMB monitoring transects. With only a handful of IMB detected, it appears that the flight season is slightly delayed this year.
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Licence closely examines a male propertius duskywing.
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Photo by WDFWBiologists Combs and Krock are on the lookout for IMB.
Sooty Grouse Hoot Surveys: Biologists Licence, Anderson, Smith and many other west side of Cascade Crest district biologists began surveying for sooty grouse this month. Numerous grouse have been detected on accessible survey routes. Acoustic recording devices were also deployed in ideal locations to help determine when and how long hooting occurs. Monitoring will continue through May.
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Licence at a scenic grouse listening stop near Granite Falls
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Smith with a booming male sooty grouse right off the road
Purple Martin Colonies on the Seattle Waterfront: Biologists Anderson and Smith conducted the annual collaboration with volunteer stewards to take down used and put up cleaned gourds (natural and plastic super gourds). At least 50 over water gourds, which are only accessible by boat, and many showed occupation from 2022. The group also maintains other sites that are accessible by foot during low tide. The western purple martin is a genetically separate population segment from the eastern purple martin population. They are slightly larger, winter in an entirely different part of Brazil, and do not like to use the well-known “purple martin condominiums” that are so often used east of the Rockies. They are a state Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Washington State Wildlife Action Plan.
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Photo by WDFWBiologist Smith and volunteer maintaining over water purple martin gourds
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Photo by StarkMale purple martin bringing food to young
Common Loon Nesting Platform Deployment: Biologist Anderson and Smith deployed multiple loon nesting platforms at lakes known to have recent loon nesting activity. The common loon is a state listed “Sensitive” species and Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Washington State Wildlife Action Plan. There are only about 30 (or less) nesting pairs in the state of Washington and Washington is the only remaining West Coast state to have nesting loons. They once bred southward, all the way to Mt. Shasta in California. Populations in the western states are being managed to support current populations and hopefully lead to growth in local populations as time progresses. WDFW and our partner, BioDiversity Research Institute (BRI) are in ongoing collaborations to provide for loon needs in Washington (and BRI throughout this species’ range).
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Photo by WDFWCommon loon on nesting lake in King County.
Providing Conflict Prevention and Education
Seattle American Robin Tree Removal: Biologist Anderson was contacted by a concerned neighbor as well as a developer regarding a supposed active robin’s nest in tree that was scheduled to be removed. Anderson examined the tree for nesting activity, but none was observed. The developer was not issued any state take. WDFW recommended to have the tree removal entity look over tree prior to cutting and examine it for bird nesting activity as the tree was removed. No bird nests or nesting activity was found by tree removal experts either. Birds and their nests are protected in WAC 220-200-100 and RCW 77.15.130.
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Photo by WDFWNot a robin nest, it belongs to a western wood peewee (in nest) at WDFW Stillwater Unit
Three-legged Cougar Sighting in King County: Biologist Anderson received a note about a three-legged cougar caught on a trail camera. The animal looks healthy and is getting around fine with no reports of any depredations, etc. WDFW is not concerned at this time, and the reporting party was asked to keep in touch if it is seen again.
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Photo by WDFWThree-legged cougar reported in King County
City of Bellevue Naturalist Program: Biologist Anderson provided an urban wildlife management class for the Bellevue Naturalist Program. Anderson participates in this event annually.
WDFW Opening Inland Freshwater Lakes Day: This year many WDFW employees assisted Fish Program with their annual “Opening Day”. Biologists Smith and Anderson, and many other Region 4 employees staffed various lakes to measure fish and take angler and boat counts for long term trend index needs. Anderson covered Walker Lake and Smith covered Lake Margaret. Anderson did not have a target raptor that he normally surveys for in conjunction with this opening day effort. He did have an osprey the entire time and an active raven’s nest (keeps boat counts interesting!). Smith had a common loon on Lake Margaret, which is a rare breeding bird in Washington with only 30 nesting pairs (a state listed “Sensitive” species). Fishing was good but there were less boat and angler numbers due to colder than usual weather. Anderson and Smith participate in this event annually to help the Fish Program, since they loan a boat to the wildlife biologists annually. It is a great opportunity to educate folks on lead-free tackle and wildlife that are affected by lead fishing products (e.g. loons, osprey taking fish all day, etc.).
Opstad Elementary Science Night in North Bend: Biologist Anderson teamed-up with Bats Northwest to staff a room with information on bat conservation, nighttime wildlife (e.g. northern flying squirrel, barred owl), and other mammalian predators common to Washington (e.g. black bear which is well known in North Bend, and cougar). Bats are the only flying mammal and in Washington and they are the major mammalian predator of insects. They help keep our insect populations in check (think, e.g., apple codling moth as one tasty they gobble up – no worms in apples!). Comparisons to other nighttime animals and mammalian predators were discussed along with basic bat life history, bats of Washington, and bats of the world. It went great and was very well attended. There is much conservation concern over bats of North America due to the bat-specific disease, White-nose syndrome. Find out more about White-nose Syndrome and what you can do.
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Photo by WDFWTownsend’s big-eared bat in King County is a “Species of Greatest Conservation Need”.
Forest Grouse Wingbee: District Wildlife Biologists Anderson, Smith, Licence, and Waddell participated in a forest grouse wingbee with other WDFW staff. Staff members examined grouse wings and tails submitted by hunters during the past grouse hunting season to determine species type, age, and sex for each specimen submitted. This helps WDFW understand the proportion of each species of forest grouse in the harvest, as well as proportions of males, females, adults, and juveniles. Hunters can submit wings and tails for each bird harvested at collection points located in each district.
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Photo by WDFWCanadiCollection barrel for hunters to submit a grouse wing and tail from each bird harvested.
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Photo by WDFWA male sooty grouse hooting.
Sooty Grouse Hoot Surveys: Biologists Anderson, Smith and many other west side of crest district biologists began laying out sooty grouse survey routes to be prepared for future annual surveys. 2023 is a pilot year. Efforts are coordinated with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife as we are using the same protocol with, perhaps, some adjustments in timing due to farther north latitude.
Annual Snow Goose Survey: WDFW District Wildlife Biologist Waddell and Canadian Wildlife Biologist O’Shea conducted an aerial snow goose survey in southern British Columbia and Whatcom, Skagit, and Snohomish counties. Northwest Washington and southern British Columbia represent an important wintering area for many tens of thousands of snow geese. Staff members took multiple photos of each flock that will be stitched together using photo-editing software. The finished composite image for each flock will be analyzed using sophisticated software that counts the birds in each photo.
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Photo by WDFWA view from the plane during the annual snow goose survey.
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Photo by WDFWA flock of tens of thousands of snow geese on a Skagit County field.
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Photo by WDFWSnow geese take flight in Skagit Valley.
North Cascades Elk Herd Survey: District Wildlife Biologists Waddell, Moore, and Licence worked with co-managers from the Point Elliott Treaty Tribes to survey the North Cascades elk herd. Helicopter surveys are conducted in 13 survey units to generate a population estimate and cow elk estimate for the survey area. Analysis of the data is in progress.
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Photo by WDFWElk herd counted during the 2023 North Cascades elk herd survey.
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Photo by WDFWView from the helicopter along the Skagit River during the 2023 North Cascades elk herd survey.
Oregon Spotted Frog Surveys: District Wildlife Biologists Moore and several volunteers conducted egg mass surveys for Oregon spotted frogs (OSF) at new sites and locations where frogs have been documented in the past. Biologists also collected individual eggs for a study that will use genomics techniques to estimate genetic diversity, population structure, demographic history, identify adaptive alleles, and inform the need for evolutionary rescue of OSF based on genetic patterns of inbreeding.
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Photo by WDFWWildlife biologist and OSF guru/volunteer Nyman examines an OSF communal egg mass cluster.
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Photo by WDFWAdult Oregon spotted frog.
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Photo by WDFWOregon spotted frog eggs.
White-nose Syndrome (WNS) Research in Snohomish County: District Wildlife Biologist Licence and Species Lead/WNS Coordinator Tobin met with Snohomish County Public Works and a private landowner to discuss and assess a Yuma myotis and little brown bat maternity roost for a WNS research project. The project will assess the effectiveness of a treatment to enhance survival of WNS susceptible bat species and includes many partners including United States Geological Survey, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada, and Woodland Park Zoo. Final approval of the site is still pending, but promising. Similarly, a system to monitor individual bat movements for the same study was installed on an existing research site near Darrington.
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Photo by WDFWSnohomish County Bridge Manager, private landowner, WDFW Bat Species Lead Abby Tobin, and Kurt Licence assess a proposed study site for white-nose syndrome research.
Sound Transit Light Link – West Seattle to Ballard – Great Blue Heron Colony: Biologist Anderson consulted with Sound Transit environmental staff working on the West Seattle to Ballard light link extension. A heron colony is within the project footprint and take activities are very likely throughout the project. Sound Transit has been in consultation with WDFW Habitat Program, Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) meeting local Seattle critical areas code, and Wildlife Program, to state take of protected wildlife needs. The project is moving along with wildlife consideration efforts where appropriate to meet local code or state law. WDFW appreciates the proactive efforts of Sound Transit.
Species of Greatest Conservation Need – Habitat Program WSDOT Culvert Replacement Efforts – Harlequin Duck Considerations: Biologist Anderson worked with the Waterfowl Section Manager Spragens and Specialist Hamer to provide recommendations to Habitat Program for culvert replacement efforts where known nesting/breeding harlequin ducks have been documented. Harlequin ducks are listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SCGN) in the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) and the Habitat Program categorizes this species as a Priority Habitat Species via their PHS management recommendation program. A project in King County is the first in the new Habitat Program project screening efforts. There is a desire to ensure all Wildlife Program consultation provides uniformity across the current King County effort, as well as future requests in regard to harlequin ducks in Washington.
Wolf Monitoring in Snohomish County: Biologist Licence and Statewide Wolf Specialist Ben Maletzke investigated a large canid report on Olo Mountain which is private industrial timberland near Granite Falls. Upon investigation, only coyote sized tracks were observed, and no other signs of wolves were discovered. Two additional trail cameras were deployed in the county and one was checked, although no wolves were detected.
Providing Conflict Prevention and Education
On Mar. 20, Wildlife Conflict Specialist O’Connor worked with a group of volunteer master hunters to assist a dairy farm in the Enumclaw area. Conflict staff and master hunters repaired barbed wire, cleared blackberry and grass, and helped the farmer design electric fencing to exclude elk from the cow pasture. Wildlife exclusion fencing and electric fencing is an excellent way to keep wildlife out of pastures, gardens, and large commercial agricultural areas. Master hunter volunteers are eager to assist landowners in fencing projects and conflict staff is always happy to help farmers design wildlife exclusion fencing and electric fencing projects!
Providing Education and Outreach
Wildlife Conflict Specialist O’Connor gave a bear awareness presentation to the board members of the Trilogy Community in the Redmond area. The presentation focused on co-existing with Washington’s resident blear bear population as they are frequently observed in semi-urban areas adjacent to greenbelts and natural spaces. The Trilogy and Redmond communities, like many residentials areas of western Washington, often see these charismatic animals passing through their greenbelt-adjacent backyards, golf courses, and open spaces which makes education and outreach a primary focus for WDFW conflict specialists moving into the spring season. Reducing human sourced attractants is the number one thing we can do as a community to reduce potential conflict with wildlife. By removing bird feeders, garbage containers, and pet food, we encourage natural black bear foraging behavior and make our communities safer for both people and black bears.
Wildlife Conflict Specialist O’Connor assisted Bear and Cougar Specialist Welfelt with a black bear presentation given to King County Parks employees focusing on safely working and recreating in bear country. Washington is bear country and it not uncommon to see these animals in our state’s diverse park system. By reducing human sourced attractants, locking garbage in bear resistant containers, clearing brush from buildings and picnic areas, and maintaining awareness of our surroundings, we can significantly increase safety while working and recreating in our natural spaces.
Other
Wildlife Conflict Specialist O’Connor attended the Human-Carnivore Interaction Response Training in Moses Lake, Washington. This training was provided to WDFW conflict staff to increase our knowledge of carnivore ecology, populations, and distribution as well as respond to carnivore-livestock interaction.
Bat Survey and Monitoring: Biologist Anderson worked with WDFW Bat Technician Leipold to maintain year-round acoustic units and survey a local man-made feature for prospect of hibernating bats. Townsend’s big-eared bats were located using the structure for hibernation. Townsend’s are a Species of Greatest Conservation Need under the Washington State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). District 12 staff members also investigated a few sites reported in the Green River Watershed that are rumored to hold bat roosting habitat and possible bats. Follow-up investigations will be necessary given access needs at sites visited. Similarly, Biologist Licence visited a new roost site discovered by Technician Leipold in a gun battery at Fort Ebey State Park on Whidbey Island to determine species composition. A mixed colony of Myotis and Townsend’s big-eared bats were identified, and guano was collected for further identification of the Myotis species. District 13 has also been coordinating with landowners and county officials on existing sites and a potential new site in Snohomish County for White-nose Syndrome research.
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Photo by WDFWTownsend’s big-eared bat hibernating in a man-made feature
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Photo by WDFWTownsend’s big-eared bat and Myotis roommate in state park gun battery
WDFW Seaduck Monitoring: Multiple Region 4 biologists assisted the WDFW Waterfowl Group with boat surveys targeting harlequin duck. Recently the harlequin duck harvest was closed due to concerns and need to reevaluate wintering population status of multiple wintering seaduck species (e.g. harlequin, scoter species, etc.) in comparison to past baseline data.
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Photo by WDFWBiologists Evenson counting and classifying harlequin ducks
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Photo by WDFWBiologists Smith and Hamer counting and classifying harlequin ducks
Providing Recreation Opportunities
Annual Green River Unit, GMU 485, Special Hunt Meeting: District 12 staff members participated in the annual WDFW-Muckleshoot-Tacoma Water Hunt Permit meeting. Hunts were planned out and agreed upon as well as brief updates regarding population monitoring, management efforts and needs, etc. Thanks to MIT and Tacoma Water for ongoing support and collaboration in all of this.
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Photo by WDFWMature and button buck in the Green River Unit
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Photo by WDFWCougar print in snow in King County WDFW District 12. This animal used a road for two miles. Plenty of tracks to photograph
Skagit Headquarters Spur Dike: Skagit Wildlife Area staff members worked with the Capital Asset Management Program (CAMP) to repair damage to a popular walking trail on top of a dike at the Skagit Headquarters Unit.
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Photo by WDFWThe spur dike at Skagit Headquarters is looking good after repairs
Cherry Valley Unit: Snoqualmie Wildlife Area staff members opened the gate to the north parking lot for the beginning of bird dog training season on the unit. Staff members also worked with a tree company to remove several poplars bordering the south parking lot that were at the end of their life span and were presenting a hazard to parked cars and users.
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Photo by WDFWThis is one of the popular bird dog training ponds at the Cherry Valley Unit
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Photo by WDFWA tree company removing hazard trees at the Cherry Valley Unit
Providing Conflict Prevention and Education
Bridle Trails State Park Bat Use Conflict: Biologist Anderson removed a most likely temporary roosting silver-haired bat from a camping cabin at Bridle Trails State Park in Bellevue. The cabin was to be used by a family later that day and parks requested WDFW to respond so the cabin could be used as scheduled. Anderson placed the bat in an alternative roosting location in natural habitat and asked parks staff members to check on it once prior to dark and in next morning.
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Photo by WDFWSilver-haired bat that decided to use a cabin that folks were wanting to use later that same evening
King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks (KCDNRP): Biologist Anderson met with representatives of KCDNRP regarding broader wildlife conflict reduction and acute issues with geese on beaches at area parks.
Conducting Business Operations and Policy
Training: Staff members with District 12 completed flight training because renewal is needed by this May.
Washington Bat Working Group Annual Meeting: District 12 attended the Washington Bat Working Group annual meeting. Much content focused on bat and white-nose syndrome monitoring. You can find more information on bats and white-nose syndrome on the WDFW website.
Point Elliot Treaty Tribes Mountain Goat Meeting: District 13, District 14, and WDFW Species Lead Moore participated in a mountain goat management meeting with eight tribal entities and a North Cascades National Park wildlife biologist. Attendees discussed many topics such as mountain goat population status across Washington, last year's survey results, 2022 harvest summaries, current and future management projects including 2023 survey funding, vendors, and personnel.
