Final report on the general avian inventory at Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado and Utah

Giroir, Glenn

This report documents the 2001, 2002 breeding season avian inventory of Dinosaur National Monument, in UT and CO, conducted by the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory as part of the National Park Service Inventory and Monitoring Program. Objectives were to document avian species occurrence, distribution, and density, as well as to identify critical bird habitats, species of special management concern, and to make recommendations for a long-term monitoring program. Randomly established point count and line transect surveys were conducted in May and June of both years, using distance sampling methodology. Survey sites were stratified across the following habitats: aspen, grassland, mixed conifer, pinon-juniper, ponderosa pine, river riparian, creek riparian, sage shrubland, semi-desert shrubland. Nocturnal birds were surveyed at point count stations along drivable roads in the Monument. One-hundred eight species were detected, with the highest diversity occurring in pinyon-juniper habitat. Overall bird density was highest in the 3 montane forest habitats. Management suggestions are offered for high priority species, based on the Colorado Partners in Flight Land Bird Conservation Plan. Detailed directions are included to allow for repeatability of the survey as part of a long-term monitoring program. Recommendations include nominating the Monument as a National Audubon Society Important Bird Area. Tables describe species richness and abundance (density). Extensive appendices are: A. Transect Descriptions (with maps) B. Species Distribution and Abundance (with maps) C. Bird Checklist for DINO (in NPSpecies format) D. Conservation Recommendations E. Field Workers, Survey Times and Dates.

Final report on the general avian inventory at Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado and Utah

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