Biological Projects

Seabirds:

Staff at Togiak National Wildlife Refuge monitor the population and breeding performance of black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), common murres (Uria aalge), and pelagic cormorants (Phalacrocorax pelagicus) at Cape Peirce and Cape Newenham. The monitoring program is designed to detect changes in populations and reproductive performance of these species. The seabird monitoring program provides managers with information on trends in this area and can be compared with similar programs elsewhere in Alaska.

Monitoring has taken place from shore-based plots at Cape Peirce annually since 1984 and at Cape Newenham from 1990-1993 and 1996-1997. Boat-based population monitoring of kittiwakes and murres began in 1990 and also included Shaiak Island and Bird Rock. Together, these 4 colonies support up to 1.5 million seabirds and make up one of the largest mainland seabird colonies in the Bering Sea. Other species that breed here are double-crested cormorants (P. auritus), red-faced cormorants (P. urile), glaucous-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens), pigeon guillemots (Cepphus columba), horned puffins (Fratercula corniculata), tufted puffins (F. cirrhata), and parakeet auklets (Cyclorrhyncus psittacula).

Seabird population surveys on the Togiak Refuge have shown varied results since 1990. The average number of adult black-legged kittiwakes on study plots at Cape Peirce was relatively high (average of 1,820 birds), but has been showing a negative trend. The average number of adult common murres was high (average of 4,000 birds), and also showing a negative trend. The average number of adult pelagic cormorants was relatively low (average 129 birds) but has remained relatively stable.

Seabird breeding performance also varies. Overall productivity of black-legged kittiwakes is consistently low and has averaged 21%. Overall productivity of common murres is moderately high and has averaged 39%. Overall productivity of pelagic cormorants is usually high and has averaged 72%.

Predation and disturbances to seabirds are recorded. Common ravens (Corvus corax) account for most of the predation on cliff-nesting seabirds. Disturbances may be caused by other wildlife, aircraft, boats, or human visitors.

For more information regarding the population and productivity monitoring of seabirds, contact the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge.

Last updated: January 3, 2008
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