Federal Register: May 21, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 99)
DOCID: FR Doc 04-11374
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Veterans Affairs Department
CFR Citation: 50 CFR Part 17
NOTICE: Part II
DOCUMENT ACTION: Notice of review.
SUBJECT CATEGORY:
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Annual Notice of Findings on Resubmitted Petitions for Foreign Species; Annual Description of Progress on Listing Actions
DATES: We will accept comments on these resubmitted petition findings at any time.
DOCUMENT SUMMARY:
In this document, we announce our annual petition findings for foreign species, as required under section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Endangered Species Act of 1972, as amended. When, in response to a petition, we find that listing a species is warranted but precluded, we must complete a new status review each year until we publish a proposed rule or make a determination that listing is not warranted. These subsequent status reviews and the accompanying 12month findings are referred to as ``resubmitted'' petition findings.
Information contained in this document describes our review of the current status of 73 foreign taxa that were the subjects of warranted butprecluded findings. Based on our review, we find that 51 species continue to warrant listing, but that their listing remains precluded by higherpriority listing actions. Seventeen species no longer warrant listing under the Endangered Species Act and, therefore, have been removed from the warrantedbutprecluded list. We will promptly publish listing proposals for five of the species.
We request additional status information for these species as well as information on taxa that we should include in future updates of this list. We will consider this information in preparing listing documents and future resubmitted petition findings. This information will also help us in monitoring the status of the taxa and in conserving them.
SUMMARY:
Interior Department, Fish and Wildlife Service,
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Background
The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), provides two mechanisms for considering species for listing. First, we can identify and propose for listing those species that are endangered or threatened based on the factors contained in section 4(a)(1). We implement this through the candidate program. Candidate taxa are those taxa for which we have on file sufficient information on biological vulnerability and threats to support a proposal to list as endangered or threatened, but for which preparation and publication of a proposed rule is precluded by higherpriority listing actions. None of the species covered by this notice were assessed through the candidate program. Second, the Act allows the public to petition us to add species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (List). Under section 4(b)(3)(A), when we receive such a petition, we must determine within 90 days, to the maximum extent practicable, whether the petition presents substantial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted (90 day finding). If we make a positive 90day finding, under section 4(b)(3)(B) we must make one of three possible findings within 12 months of the receipt of the petition (12month finding).
The first possible 12month finding is that listing is not warranted, in which case we need not take any further action on the petition. The second possibility is that we may find that listing is warranted, in which case we must promptly publish a proposed rule to list the species. Once we publish a proposed rule for a species, section 4(b)(5) and (6) govern further procedures, regardless of whether or not we issued the proposal in response to a petition. The third possibility is that we may find that listing is warranted but precluded. Such a finding means that immediate publication of a proposed rule to list the species is precluded by higherpriority listing proposals, and that we are making expeditious progress to add and remove species from the List, as appropriate.
Pursuant to section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Act, when, in response to a petition, we find that listing a species is warranted but precluded, we must make a new 12month finding each year until we publish a proposed rule or make a determination that listing is not warranted. These subsequent 12month findings are referred to as ``resubmitted'' petition findings. This notice constitutes publication of our resubmitted petition findings for all foreign species that are currently the subject of an outstanding petition.
Section 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the Act requires the Service to ``implement a system to monitor effectively the status of all species'' subject to a warrantedbutprecluded 12month finding, and to ``make prompt use of the [emergency listing] authority [under section 4(b)(7)] to prevent a significant risk to the well being of any such species.'' The annual resubmitted petition findings for foreign species play a crucial role in the Service's monitoring of all warrantedbutprecluded foreign species by seeking information regarding the status of those species. The Service reviews all new information on these species as it becomes available and identifies any species for which an emergency listing may be appropriate. If the Service determines that emergency listing is appropriate for any species, the Service will make prompt use of its authority under section 4(b)(7). We have been monitoring and will continue to monitor all warrantedbutprecluded foreign species. Previous Notices
We published earlier petition findings, status reviews, and petition finding reviews that included foreign species in the Federal Register on May 12, 1981 (46 FR 26464); January 20, 1984 (49 FR 2485); May 10, 1985 (50 FR 19761); January 9, 1986 (51 FR 996); July 7, 1988 (53 FR 25511); December 29, 1988 (53 FR 52747); January 6, 1989 (54 FR 554); November 21, 1991 (56 FR 58664); March 28, 1994 (59 FR 14496); and reiterated on January 12, 1995 (60 FR 2899).
Findings on Resubmitted Petitions
This notice describes our resubmitted petition findings for 73
foreign taxa for which we had previously found listing to be warranted
but precluded. We have considered any new information obtained since
the previous finding, including information provided in a 1997
petition. On May 21, 1997, Public Employees for Environmental
Responsibility (also known as PEER) submitted a petition to list the following species as threatened or endangered
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under the Act (1996 IUCN designations shown in parentheses):
Kalinowski's tinamou (Nothoprocta kalinowskii) (Critically Endangered),
Colombian grebe (Podiceps andinus) (Extinct), Junin flightless grebe
(Podiceps taczanowskii) (Critically Endangered), Beck's petrel
(Pseudobulweria becki) (Critically Endangered), Fiji petrel (Pterodroma
macgillivrayi) (Critically Endangered), Chatham Islands petrel (P.
axillaris) (Critically Endangered), Cook's petrel (Pterodroma cookii)
(Vulnerable), Galapagos petrel (P. phaeopygia) (Critically Endangered),
magenta petrel (P. magentae) (Critically Endangered), Heinroth's
shearwater (Puffinus heinrothi) (Endangered), greater adjutant stork
(Leptoptilos dubius) (Endangered), giant ibis (Pseudibis gigantea)
(Critically Endangered), Andean flamingo (Phoenicopterus andinus)
(Vulnerable), Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) (Critically
Endangered), southern helmeted curassow (Pauxi unicornis) (Endangered),
bluebilled curassow (Crax alberti) (Critically Endangered), Cauca guan
(Penelope perspicax) (Endangered), gorgeted woodquail (Odontophorus
strophium) (Endangered), Junin rail (Laterallus tuerosi) (Endangered),
barwinged rail (Nesocolpeus poecilopterus) (Extinct), Bogota rail
(Rallus semiplumbeus) (Endangered), takahe (Porphyrio mantelli)
(Endangered), Chatham Island oystercatcher (Haematopus chathamensis)
(Endangered), black stilt (Himantopus novaezelandiae) (Critically
Endangered), Jerdon's courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus) (Endangered),
slenderbilled curlew (Numenius tenuirostris) (Critically Endangered),
Marquesan imperialpigeon (Ducula galeata) (Critically Endangered),
salmoncrested cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) (Vulnerable), Uvea
parakeet (Eunymphicus cornutus uvaensis) (listed at the species level
as Vulnerable, not listed at the subspecies level), bluethroated macaw
(Ara glaucogularis) (Endangered), blackbreasted puffleg (Eriocnemis
nigrivestis) (Critically Endangered), Esmeraldas woodstar (Acestrura
berlepschi) (Endangered), Chilean woodstar (Eulidia yarrellii)
(Vulnerable), helmeted woodpecker (Dryocopus galeatus) (Endangered),
Okinawa woodpecker (Sapheopipo noguchii) (Critically Endangered),
yellowbrowed toucanet (Aulacorhynchus huallagae) (Lower Risk/Near
Threatened), royal cinclodes (Cinclodes aricomae) (Critically
Endangered), whitebrowed spinetail (Leptasthenura xenothorax) (Critically Endangered), blackhooded antwren (Formicivora
erythronotos) (Critically Endangered), fringebacked fireeye
(Pyriglena atra) (Endangered), brownbanded antpitta (Grallaria
milleri) (Endangered), Stresemann's bristlefront (Merulaxis
stresemanni) (Critically Endangered), greywinged cotinga (Tijuca
condita) (Vulnerable), Brasilia tapaculo (Scytalopus novacapitalis)
(Vulnerable), Kaempfer's todytyrant (Hemitriccus kaempferi)
(Endangered), ashbreasted tittyrant (Anairetes alpinus) (Endangered),
Peruvian plantcutter (Phytotoma raimondii) (Critically Endangered),
Gurney's pitta (Pitta gurneyi) (Critically Endangered), Niceforo's wren
(Thryothorus nicefori) (Critically Endangered), Socorro mockingbird
(Mimodes graysoni) (Endangered), St. Lucia forest thrush (Cichlherminia
iherminieri sanctaeluciae) (listed at the species level as Lower Risk/
Near Threatened, not listed at the subspecies level), Moorea reed
warbler (Acrocephalus caffer longirostris) (listed as Vulnerable at the
species level, not listed as a subspecies), Eiao Polynesian warbler
(Acrocephalus caffer aquilonis) (listed at the species level as
Vulnerable, not listed at the subspecies level), longlegged
thicketbird (Trichocichla rufa) (Critically Endangered), caerulean
Paradiseflycatcher (Eutrichomyias rowleyi) (Critically Endangered), Ua
Pu flycatcher (Pomarea mendozae mira) (listed as Endangered at the
species level, not listed as a subspecies), Ghizo whiteeye (Zosterops
luteirostris) (Vulnerable), Tumaco seedeater (Sporophila insulate)
(Critically Endangered), medium treefinch (Camarhynchus pauper) (Lower
Risk/Near Threatened), cherrythroated tanager (Nemosia rourei)
(Critically Endangered), and blackbacked tanager (Tangara peruviana)
(Endangered). The basis for the PEER petition was that these species
had been classified as Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable,
Conservation Dependent, or Near Threatened in the 1996 IUCN Red List of
Threatened Animals (IUCN 1996). At the time the petition was received,
listing for these species was already found to be warranted but
precluded. We have taken into consideration the species' IUCN status,
but as discussed in our 2000 Federal Register finding (65 FR 49958),
the IUCN designation alone did not provide significant new information on threats to the species or their status.
As a result of this review, we find that warrantedbutprecluded findings remain appropriate for 51 species. We emphasize that we are not proposing these species for listing by this notice, but we anticipate developing and publishing proposed listing rules for these taxa in the future. Seventeen species no longer warrant listing under the Act and, therefore, are being removed from the list. Finally, we will promptly publish proposals for five of the species: the giant ibis (Pseudibis gigantean), black stilt (Himantopus novaezelandiae), Gurney's pitta (Pitta gurneyi), Socorro mockingbird (Mimodes graysoni), and caerulean paradiseflycatcher (Eutrichomyias rowleyi).
Based on information gathered and assessed since January 12, 1995, we have updated our determinations of whether listing of these taxa continues to be warranted or warranted but precluded, or whether we have now determined that listing is not warranted. See Table 1 for a summary of these current determinations. Taxa in Table 1 of this notice are assigned to three status categories, noted in the ``Category'' column at the left side of the table. We identify the species for which listing is no longer warranted with an ``R'' in the category column. We identify the taxa for which we continue to find that listing is warranted but precluded by a ``C'' in the category column. We have added a third category for those species for which we find that listing is warranted and designate these taxa with an ``L.'' The column labeled ``Priority'' indicates the listing priority number for all warranted or warrantedbutprecluded taxa. We assign this number based on the immediacy and magnitude of threats, as well as taxonomic status. We published a complete description of our listing priority system on September 21, 1983 (48 FR 43098). Following the scientific name of each taxon (third column) is the family designation (fourth column) and the common name, if one exists (fifth column). The sixth column provides the known historical range for the taxon.
Findings on Species for Which Listing Is Not Warranted
As previously mentioned, we found that 17 species no longer warrant
listing under the Endangered Species Act, and we therefore have removed
them from the warrantedbutprecluded list. Five of the species were
considered extinct when the initial warrantedbutprecluded finding was
made and should not have been included on the list at that time. These
species include the Colombian grebe (Podiceps andinus), barwinged rail (Nesocolpeus poecilopterus), greyheaded blackbird (Turdus
poliocephalus poliocephalus), Moorea reedwarbler (Acrocephalus caffer
longirostris), and Ua Pu flycatcher (Pomarea mendozae mira). For six [[Page 29356]]
additional species, the best available information now indicates that
they are also likely to be extinct, although they were considered to be
extant at the time of the original petition and when we made our
previous findings. These include Kalinowski's tinamou (Nothoprocta
kalinowskii), Beck's petrel (Pseudobulweria becki), the Utila
chachalaca (Ortalis vetula deschauenseei), Stresemann's bristlefront
(Merulaxis stresemanni), the Bananal tyrannulet (Serpophaga araguayae),
and the longlegged thicketbird (Trichocichla rufa). For five species,
the best available scientific information indicates that they are not
taxonomically distinct, and these include Beck's petrel (Pseudobulweria
becki)(if birds previously identified as this species are not extinct),
the Italian grey partridge (Perdix perdix italica), hairy hermit
(Glaucis hirsuta), Niceforo's wren (Thryothorus nicefori), and the
Tumaco seedeater (Sporophila insulata). Finally, the best available
scientific and commercial data indicate that the Lanyu scops owl (Otus
elegans botelensis) and greywinged cotinga (Tijuca condita) do not qualify as threatened or endangered.
Extinct Species
Kalinowski's tinamou (Nothoprocta kalinowskii)
Kalinowski's tinamou was endemic to Peru. It is known from only two specimens that were collected from widely scattered localities and has not been recorded since 1900 (BirdLife International 2000). One specimen was collected in 1894, in Cuzco at 4,575 meters (m), and the other was collected in 1900, on the Pacific slope east of Santiago de Chuco, western La Libertad, at 3,000 m (Collar et al. 1992). The Cuzco specimen was collected in an area that suggested its natural habitat was grassland or possibly a Polylepis woodland (BirdLife International 2000). The specimen collected on the Pacific slope of La Libertad came from a habitat of montane scrub (Collar et al. 1992). It is possible that the Cuzco specimen is mislabeled and was also taken at a lower elevation (BirdLife International 2000).
Virtually nothing is known about this species, but its conservation status was presumed to be critical (IUCN 2002). Threats to the species and the cause of its extreme rarity and likely extinction are unknown (BirdLife International 2000). Virtually all species of tinamous are affected by hunting and habitat alteration from the presence of man in the high Andes, and these factors may have been threats (Collar et al. 1992). This species has not been documented in over a century, even though Collar et al. (1992) had proposed that the existence of the species be confirmed. We conclude, based on the best available scientific and commercial information, that this species is extinct. We therefore find that listing of this species is no longer warranted. Because this species is known from only two specimens collected over 100 years ago, a full taxonomic evaluation of the species, involving careful evaluation of the two known skins, would be helpful to determine if it ever was a distinct taxon or is actually another species. Research on whether there is any possibility of the continued existence of this species would also be helpful.
Colombian grebe (Podiceps andinus)
The best available scientific and commercial information indicates that the Colombian grebe is extinct, and therefore, listing is not warranted. It was once found on several lakes on the Bogota and Ubate savannas, and in Lake Tota in the eastern Andes of Colombia (O'Donnel and Fjedsa 1997). These lakes contained tall marginal reeds and extensive shallows full of submergent waterweeds. The Colombian grebe was formerly considered abundant on Lake Tota in the 1940s, but by 1968, it had declined to approximately 300 birds (del Hoyo et al. 1992). There were only two records of the bird in the 1970s: one in 1972 and another one in 1977 involving one to three birds. It was sporadically sighted in various other lakes in the region of the Sabana de Bogota until the early 1950s. The last confirmed record of this species was in 1977 (World Conservation Union [IUCN] 2002). However, the validity of these last records has been questioned, and some individuals believe the species may have become extinct as early as the beginning of the 1960s. Two detailed surveys conducted in 1981 and 1982 in the wetlands of the eastern Andes of Colombia did not locate any birds (O'Donnel and Fjedsa 1997).
The decline of the Colombian grebe is attributed to wetland drainage, siltation, pesticide pollution, disruption by reed harvesting, hunting, competition, and predation of chicks by rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) (del Hoyo et al. 1992). However, the main cause of the decline is considered to be the drainage of wetlands, siltation, and subsequent eutrophication of Lake Tota, which destroyed the open, submergent Potamogeton vegetation and resulted in the formation of a dense monoculture of Elodea (Varty et al. 1986, Fjeldsa 1993, as cited in O'Donnel and Fjeldsa 1997). In the 1950s, to provide land for agriculture, the level of the lake was reduced by about one meter. This also changed the composition of the aquatic plant community from 1960 forward due to a boom in onion growing around the lake. Large amounts of fertilizers and mineral were applied at this time. The extent of shallow zones with floating vegetation was greatly reduced. The area affected was where the Colombian grebe, a foliage gleaner, obtained most of its food. The decrease in food availability markedly reduced the number of grebes and made the species more vulnerable to other adverse impacts (del Hoyo et al. 1992).
Beck's petrel (Pseudobulweria becki)
Based on the best available scientific and commercial information this species is either extinct or conspecific (i.e., synonymous) with another taxon, and we conclude that it no longer warrants listing. See further discussion below under ``Taxa found to be not taxonomically distinct'' for the basis for finding that the species, if it is not conspecific with another taxon, is extinct.
Utila chachalaca (Ortalis vetula deschauenseei)
The Utila chachalaca was only found on Utila Island off the coast
of northern Honduras. This subspecies was found in mangroves, which
cover approximately threequarters of Utila Island, and was formerly
found in adjacent scrub patches. The Utila chachalaca was known to be
local in 1936, but not rare. However, since that time, the population
declined severely due to intense hunting pressure. In 1962, the
population was estimated at 5070 individuals. More recently, S.
Midence (personal communication, as cited in Brooks and Strahl 2000)
had suggested that a small population persists on the island, but del
Hoyo et al. (1994) stated that it is possibly extinct. Results from
brief surveys conducted in 1995 suggested that the population at that
time was extremely small if not extinct (Seutin 1998, as cited in
Brooks and Strahl 2000). Honduras has listed the species Ortalis vetula
in Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Considering the historic
decline of the species, that some ornithologists have considered this
species to be extinct for 10 years or more, and that no confirmed
sightings have occurred in over 10 years, we conclude that the best
available scientific and commercial information indicates that this species is extinct and its listing is no longer warranted.
[[Page 29357]]
Barwinged rail (Nesocolpeus poecilopterus)
The best available scientific and commercial information indicates that the barwinged rail is extinct, and therefore listing of this species is not warranted. It is known from twelve 19th Century specimens from Vitu Levu and Ovalau, reports from Taveuni, and in 1973, from Waisa and Vitu Levu, all in Fiji (Holyoak 1979, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). This was a flightless bird that inhabited remote forested areas, old overgrown plantations, and possibly lowland swamps (Pratt et al. 1987). Two other rails from these islands have become extinct due to predation by introduced mongooses (Herpestes spp.) and cats (Felis domesticus). BirdLife International (2000) classifies the barwinged rail as extinct.
Stresemann's bristlefront (Merulaxis stresemanni)
Stresemann's bristlefront is known from just two specimens from eastern Brazil: one collected near Salvadore in the 1830s and a second from Ilheus in 1945 (BirdLife International 2000). Nothing is known about this species, and recent surveys have failed to find any individuals. The humid forest in Bahia, the presumed range of the species, has been cleared or converted to cacao plantations, and the remaining patches are disappearing very rapidly (BirdLife International 2000). This species is categorized as Critically Endangered by the IUCN because, if it is extant, its population is likely to be very tiny (IUCN 2002), and it continues to be protected by Brazilian law. BirdLife International (2000) recommends that surveys be conducted to locate any extant populations. Fieldwork is needed not only to confirm the continued existence of the species but to provide information on its ecological requirements if it exists (BirdLife International 2001). Based on the best available scientific and commercial information, particularly the lack of sightings and extensive loss of habitat, we conclude that this species is now extinct and its listing is not warranted.
Bananal tyrannulet (Serpophaga araguayae)
The Bananal tyrannulet appears to be known only from the type specimen from Ilha do Bananal, Goias, Brazil (Traylor 1979, as cited in Collar et al. 1988), and has not been relocated in the wild despite several searches. We have therefore determined that the species is extinct, and we no longer find that listing of this species is warranted.
Greyheaded blackbird (Turdus poliocephalus poliocephalus)
The greyheaded blackbird has been classified by Environment Australia as extinct. The subspecies was last seen in 1975 and there have been no records since, despite searches (Garnett and Crowley 2000). It was endemic to Norfolk Island and originally probably occurred throughout the island. The principle reason for the grey headed blackbird's disappearance was the arrival of black rats (Rattus rattus) in the 1940s (Robinson 1988, as cited in Garnett and Crowley 2000). Hybridization with the European blackbird (Turdus merula) may have also played a part in the decline of the subspecies (Schodde and Mason 1999, as cited in Garnett and Crowley 2000). The best available scientific and commercial information indicates that this species is extinct, and therefore listing is not warranted.
Moorea reedwarbler (Acrocephalus caffer longirostris)
This subspecies was considered nearly extinct in 1986 (Sherley 2001). An expedition in 1921 reported that this endemic form on Moorea Island (Society Islands) was less common and localized than previously thought. Investigative surveys in 19711973 located two pairs in the interior of the island (Sherley 2001). However, research conducted in December 1986 and January 1987 yielded no evidence of this warbler's continued existence, and Thibault and Guyot (1988) considered it extinct. Thus, we conclude that the best available scientific and commercial information indicates that this subspecies is extinct, and listing of this subspecies is not warranted. Three other forms of this species, endemic to certain islands, are also extinct, whereas the nominate form is widespread on many islands (Birds of French Overseas Territories 2003).
Longlegged thicketbird (Trichocichla rufa)
The longlegged thicketbird was endemic to Viti Levu and Vanua Levu on Fiji (BirdLife International 2000). It was secretive and foraged on the ground beneath dense vegetation in rainforests above 800 m (Pratt et al. 1987). This species is known from very few specimens and has been considered to be extinct (Watling 1982, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). Observations from 1967, 1973, 1991, and more recently remain unconfirmed (D. Watling, personal communication 2000, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). Predation by introduced mongooses (Herpestes auropunctatus), possibly cats, and black rats (Rattus rattus) may be threats (BirdLife International 2000). This species is categorized as data deficient by the IUCN. However, we conclude that the best available scientific and commercial information indicates that this species is extinct, and that listing of the species is no longer warranted.
Ua Pu flycatcher (Pomarea mendozae mira)
Pomarea mendozae was formerly widespread in the central Marquesas
Islands, French Polynesia, and comprised four subspecies (Collar et.
al. 1994). On Ua Pu, the Ua Pu flycatcher was not located during 1989
or 1990, or during intensive searches in 1994 and 1998 (Thibault and
Meyer, as cited by BirdLife International 2003). The best available
scientific and commercial information indicates that this subspecies is
now extinct (BirdLife International 2003), and therefore listing is not warranted.
Taxa Found To Be Not Taxonomically Distinct
Beck's petrel (Pseudobulweria becki)
Beck's petrel is known from only two specimens: a female taken at sea east of New Ireland and north of Buka, Papua New Guinea, in 1928, and a male taken northeast of Rendova, Solomon Islands, in 1929 (BirdLife International 2000). If it survives at all, it is thought that this species probably nests on small islets or high mountains on larger islands (BirdLife International 2000), but this species is very poorly known. This species may potentially be threatened by predation from introduced cats and rats on its unknown breeding grounds (BirdLife International 2000). This species is categorized as Critically Endangered by the IUCN because it is suspected to have a tiny population. However, if recent sightings of presumed Tahiti petrels Pseudobulweria rostrata in the Bismarck Archipelago and Solomon Islands prove to be, in fact, Beck's petrels, population estimates will increase and perhaps cause the species to be categorized as Endangered (IUCN 2002). There are a number of target actions identified for this species by BirdLife International. These include various surveys as well as investigating the taxonomic validity of specimens to determine this species' relationship with the Tahiti petrel, with which it may be conspecific (BirdLife International 2000).
[[Page 29358]]
The best available scientific and commercial information indicates that this species is either extinct or conspecific (i.e., synonymous) with another taxon, and we conclude that it no longer warrants listing. Italian grey partridge (Perdix perdix italica)
The Italian grey partridge was described at the beginning of the
20th Century from a limited number of museum specimens (BirdLife
International 1999). Subsequently, its taxonomic validity was
questioned (Violani et al. 1988, as cited in BirdLife International
1999). Currently, the subspecies italica is normally included within
the nominate perdix, even if taxonomy of the species may be subject to
further study (e.g., as recommended by del Hoyo et al. 1994). The
status of the grey partridge (Perdix perdix) is considered secure
because it is still widespread and estimated to number several million
birds (del Hoyo et al. 1994). Because we agree that the Italian grey
partridge is no longer considered distinct from the nominate species, we conclude that it no longer warrants listing.
Hairy hermit (Glaucis hirsuta; Previously Referred to as black barbthroat [Threnetes grzimeki])
The black, or Grzimek's, barbthroat (species name used in the original petition) was first described as a new species in 1973 by Ruschi from Espiritu Santo (Sibley and Monroe 1990). It is currently included with the hairy hermit (Glaucis hirsuta; Sick 1993), since it has been determined that it was described based on the plumage of an immature male G. hirsuta (del Hoyo et al. 1999; Sibley and Monroe 1990). Two subspecies are currently recognized: G. h. insularum, found in Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago, and G. h. hirsute, found in Panama, Colombia west of the Andes, and east of the Andes to central Bolivia, through Venezuela to the Guianas, and almost all of Brazil (del Hoyo et al. 1999). It is found in the understory of many types of forest and dense vegetation outside primary forests, second growth, woodland clearings, disturbed and secondary forest, riverine habitats, swamps, shrubs, and forest edge (del Hoyo et al. 1999; Sick 1993). It is not globally threatened and is generally common throughout much of its extensive range (del Hoyo et al. 1999). Glaucis hirsuta is listed in Appendix II of CITES.
Based on the best available scientific and commercial information, we conclude that listing of the black barbthroat is no longer warranted because it has been determined to be conspecific with a species that is common within its range and not a distinct, rare species.
Niceforo's wren (Thryothorus nicefori)
Niceforo's wren occurs on the west slope of the eastern Andes in Santander, Colombia (BirdLife International 2000). It is known only from the type locality at San Gil on the Rio Fonce, south of Bucaramanga, where seven specimens, including the type, were taken in 1945 (Meyer de Schauensee 1946, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). There appear to be no further records until 1989, when two birds were seen in dense Acacia scrub in a semiarid valley a short distance east of San Gil (Collar et al. 1992). This species is considered Critically Endangered by IUCN because its known population is tiny, inferred to be declining, and known from only one site in a region where the habitat is highly modified and habitat degradation is continuing (IUCN 2002). The threats to this species are unclear because the dependence on Acacia scrub and the extent of occupied habitat is not known (BirdLife International 2000). Suitable habitat may have been lost to agricultural conversion, and the remaining Acacia scrub is threatened by goat and cattle grazing and seasonal burning for farming (Collar et al. 1992).
Mayr and Greenway (1960) and Ridgely and Tudor (1989) have suggested that this bird may be a wellmarked subspecies of the widespread rufousandwhite wren (Thryothorus rufalbus) (Collar et al. 1992). In Colombia, this wren is found from the Caribbean lowlands to the llanos east of the Andes (Hilty and Brown 1986). The most recent observation of Niceforo's wren showed that it sounds exactly like the rufousandwhite wren and responds to a tape of that species (P. Kaestner in litt. 1992, as cited in Collar et al. 1992). Validity as a separate species is doubtful (F. G. Stiles in litt. 1999, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). Therefore, because of the significant information indicating that this is not a distinct taxon, but is a variant of a widespread species, we conclude that listing of this species is not warranted.
Tumaco seedeater (Sporophila insulata)
The Tumaco seedeater is described from islands and river deltas on the coast of southwest Colombia (BirdLife International 2000). The typeseries was collected in 1912 (Chapman 1917, as cited in Collar et al. 1992), and the bird was not seen again until it was rediscovered 82 years later in 1994 on Isla Bocagrande (Salaman 1995). In 1998, birds were found on Isla Aji in the Rio Naya Delta, Valle del Cauca (Gomez, in litt. 1999, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). It could be extinct on Tumaco (Salaman 1995), and it was not found on Isla Bocagrande after 3 days of searching in December 1999 (Strewe, in litt. 2000). This species is classified as Critically Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List because it has a very small range and the population is declining to the extent that it is possibly extirpated from Tumaco (IUCN 2002). The population estimate for this species is 250999 birds with a decreasing population trend (BirdLife International 2000). Development is the major threat (ibid.). Nonetheless, information indicates that the species status should be reassessed based on taxonomy. Ridgely and Tudor (1989) concluded that the Tumaco seedeater is almost certainly allied to the more common chestnutthroated seedeater (S. telasco), or may represent a hybrid between the chestnut throated seedeater and the ruddybreasted seedeater (S. minuta), although they indicate that the taxonomic relationship of S. insulata and S. telasco should be investigated further, along with other closely related species of Sporophila.
We conclude that listing of this species is no longer warranted
based on this information on taxonomy. The best available scientific
information indicates that this taxon is either a conspecific of a more common species or a hybrid of two known species.
Taxa That Are Not Threatened or Endangered
Lanyu scops owl (Otus elegans botelensis)
The Lanyu scops owl is not considered globally threatened, and we note that this subspecies has been regularly omitted from lists of globally threatened birds (Collar et al. 1988, BirdLife International 2001). This subspecies is found on Lanyu Island, off the coast of southeastern Taiwan (del Hoyo et al. 1999). In the mid1980s, the Lanyu scops owl was listed as Endangered by IUCN because its population was estimated at about 200 individuals. Since that time, numbers have grown, and recently, the population has been determined to be stable at about 1,000 individuals (del Hoyo et al. 1999). Currently, the IUCN categorizes Otus elegans as Lower Risk/NearThreatened (IUCN 2002). The species is listed in Appendix II of CITES, as are all members of the Order Strigiformes unless they are listed in Appendix I.
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The status of this species has improved considerably since our original warrantedbutprecluded finding was made. Based on the best available scientific and commercial information, we have evaluated the status of this subspecies according to the five factors contained in Section 4(a)(1) of the Act for determining whether a species is endangered or threatened, as follows:
The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range: The Lanyu scops owl is restricted to the relatively small (45 km2) tropical island of Lanyu, located southeast of Taiwan. Studies have shown that, although the amount of suitable habitat is limited, all available nesting habitat is saturated (Severinghaus 2000), and prospects for the survival of the Lanyu scops owl are considered good as long as the habitat is protected (BirdLife International 2000). We are not aware of any specific information on current threats to the habitat of this subspecies.
Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or
educational purposes: There is no documentation of overutilization of
this subspecies, if it is utilized at all. However, even if it were to be utilized for some purpose, such use would be regulated
internationally through the current listing of this and all owls in the
Appendices to CITES, which requires that any trade must be both legal and nondetrimental to the survival of the species.
Disease or predation: There is no information to suggest that the Lanyu scops owl is subject to any threat from disease or predation.
The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms: Although the Lanyu scops owl might benefit in the long term from more formal protection of its habitat, the lack of current protection does not appear to present a problem for the species, since no immediate threat to the habitat has been identified.
Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence: Due to the lack of any information on current threats to the Lanyu scops owl, and because it has been able to increase to five times the estimated population size of 20 years ago, there is no indication that this subspecies is being adversely affected by any other natural or manmade factors.
Therefore, we conclude that this subspecies is not in danger of extinction or likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range, and that listing of the Lanyu scops owl is no longer warranted. Greywinged cotinga (Tijuca condita)
The greywinged cotinga is restricted to the Serra dos Orgaos and the Serra do Tingua in the vicinity of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (BirdLife International 2000). It has been recorded from small patches of extremely humid elfin cloudforest rich in bromeliads with an even canopy 510 m above the ground (Snow 1982). It is found on both exposed ridgetops and on sheltered slopes in an otherwise open area of bamboo and tussock grass (ibid.). It is classified as Vulnerable in the 2002 IUCN Red List because it has a small range restricted to two adjacent montane areas (IUCN 2002). The population is estimated at 1,0002,499 individuals and is considered stable (BirdLife International 2000). Scott and Brooke (1985, as cited in Collar et al. 1988) found that this species is clearly rare and local, and occurs at a very low density, and the total area of suitable habitat is small. However, there is little reason to believe that it was ever much more numerous than at present. There are no major threats to its habitat, although both disturbance and fires caused by hikers have been considered potential threats (BirdLife International 2000). Both populations occur within the protected areas of Serra dos Orgaos National Park and the Tingua Biological Reserve (ibid.).
This species currently has a stable population at approximately historic levels, is not subject to significant threats within its range, and occurs within protected areas. Based on the best available scientific and commercial information, we have evaluated the status of this species according to the five factors contained in section 4(a)(1) of the Act for determining whether a species is endangered or threatened, as follows:
The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range: This species has a limited area of suitable habitat, but this is believed not to have changed over time. Its habitat is described as naturally fragmented (BirdLife International 2003). There is a potential threat from fire, but otherwise, no specific threat to the species' habitat (Scott and Brooke 1985, as cited in Collar et al. 1988).
Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes: There is no information to suggest that this species is used by humans for any purpose, and therefore it is not being overutilized.
Disease or predation: There is no information to indicate that this species is threatened by disease or predation.
The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms: The habitat of both known populations of this species is protected within a National Park and a Reserve. Although the species is not specifically protected under national law in Brazil, no threat has been identified for which such overarching protection is required.
Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence: There is no information to indicate that any other natural or manmade factors are adversely affecting this species.
Therefore, we conclude that this species is not in danger of
extinction or likely to become an endangered species within the
foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its
range, and that listing of the greywinged cotinga is no longer warranted.
Findings on Species for Which Listing Is Warranted but Precluded
Issuance of proposed listing rules for most of the warrantedbut precluded species, even those with the highest listing priority numbers (i.e., 1, 2, or 3) will continue to be precluded over the next year due to the need to complete pending proposals to determine if other species are endangered or threatened. Over the next year, we will work on final determinations for three African antelopes (scimitarhorned oryx [Oryx dammah], addax [Addax nasomaculatus], and dama gazelle [Gazella dama]); the Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii); and the scarletchested parakeet (Neophema splendida) and turquoise parakeet (Neophema pulchella). We must also make the required 12month petition findings on the Mexican bobcat (Lynx rufus escuinapae) and seven foreign butterfly taxa (Teinopalpus imperialis, Protographium marcellinus [previously referred to as Eurytides marcellinus], Mimoides lysithous harrisianus [previously referred to as Eurytides lysithous harrisianus], Parides ascanius, Parides hahneli, Troides [= Ornithoptera] meridionalis, and Pterourus esperanza [previously referred to as Papilio esperanza]).
In addition, we must meet our other statutory and treaty
obligations. In determining the resources for listing warrantedbut
precluded species, we must balance these needs with the resources
needed for completing the other nondiscretionary activities funded
under the International Wildlife Trade budget component of the
International Affairs program. This budget component includes not only
all of these listing activities, but also issuing permits under the Act
and mandatory activities for U.S. implementation of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora [[Page 29360]]
(CITES), the Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992, certain permitting
provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, issuing Injurious
Wildlife permits under the Lacey Act, and parts of the Pelly Amendment
(section 8 of the Fisherman's Protective Act). Therefore, the resources
available for listing actions under the Act for foreign species is
limited by competing nondiscretionary activities funded from the International Wildlife Trade budget.
Based on these considerations, we have determined that sufficient resources are available to proceed with the five highestpriority species, which were previously found to be warranted but precluded in our reviews (see ``Findings on Species for which Listing is Warranted'' below).
We have found that, for the following 51 species, listing continues to be warranted but precluded. As previously indicated, this means that immediate publication of a proposed rule to list the species is precluded by higherpriority listing actions, and that we are making expeditious progress to add and remove species from the List, as appropriate. We will continue to monitor the status of these species as new information becomes available. Our review of new information will determine if a change in status is warranted, including the need to emergency list any species.
Junin flightless grebe (Podiceps taczanowskii)
The Junin flightless grebe is confined to Lake Junin, which is located 4,080 m above sea level in central Peru (Fjeldsa 1981, as cited in O'Donnel and Fjedsa 1997). The lake, which covers approximately 14,320 hectares, reaches a depth of 10 m in its center and is bordered by extensive reed marshes. These reed marshes can be continuous in places, but also form a mosaic with stretches of open water. Considerable areas of the lake are shallow, with the bottom densely covered with Chara (del Hoyo et al. 1992). The Junin grebe is a bird of open lake habitat and stays far offshore in the center of the lake for part of the year. However, during the breeding season, it goes to areas of tall Scirpus (californicus) tatora or bays and channels in the outer edge of the 25kmwide reed marshes surrounding the lake (O'Donnel and Fjedsa 1997). The Junin grebe feeds mainly on fish (Orestias), which make up approximately 90% of its diet (del Hoyo et al. 1992).
The Junin grebe experienced a dramatic decline during the 20th Century. The species was considered abundant in 1938, and common in 1961, with estimates of several thousand birds (del Hoyo et al. 1992). Current population estimates for the Junin grebe are between 50 and 249 birds, with a decreasing population trend (BirdLife International 2000). Because of this decline, and because it is endemic to one Andean lake, the Junin grebe qualifies as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List (IUCN 2002). The decline in numbers of this species was brought about by pollution of Lake Junin by local mining activities and variations of up to 7 m in water level, which is controlled by a hydroelectric power station. These changes in water level caused nesting and foraging areas to dry out (BirdLife International 2000), and in 1969, the vegetation of Lake Junin appeared to be dyed yellow with breakdown products of sulphuric acids and toxic fumes from a copper mine (del Hoyo et al. 1992). Of less significance was the introduction of trout in the 1930s, which replaced native fish species. Since 1975, some conservation measures have been implemented: Lake Junin was declared a reserve, and the Peruvian government nationalized the mines of Cerro del Pasco in an attempt to prevent pollution by the mine (del Hoyo et al. 1992).
The Junin flightless grebe does not represent a monotypic genus. It faces threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. It therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
Fiji petrel (Pterodroma macgillivrayi)
The Fiji petrel is marine and presumably pelagic (del Hoyo et al. 1992). It was originally known from just one specimen collected in 1855 on Gau Island and more recently from eight records of sightings on the island since 1983 (BirdLife International 2000). The only other record is a reported sighting at sea over 200 km north of Gau (Watling 2000, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). The Fiji petrel's breeding grounds have yet to be discovered, but may be located in areas of undisturbed mature forest or on rocky, mountainous ground (del Hoyo et al. 1992). The Fiji petrel is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN because it is inferred, given the paucity of recent records, that there is only a tiny population confined to an extremely small breeding area (IUCN 2002). The population is estimated at fewer than 50 individuals and is assumed to be declining because of predation by cats, which may threaten its longterm survival (BirdLife International 2000). However, very little is known about the species. It is protected under Fijian law, and priorities for the species include conducting surveys on Gau and other suitable islands and reinforcing existing community awareness (BirdLife International 2000).
The Fiji petrel does not represent a monotypic genus. The magnitude
of threat to the species is high, but the immediacy of threat is non imminent. Therefore, it receives a priority rank of 5.
Chatham petrel (Pterodroma axillaris; Previously Referred to as Pterodroma hypoleuca axillaris)
The Chatham petrel is found only on South East Island (Rangatira) in the Chatham Islands of New Zealand (BirdLife International 2000). It is marine and presumably pelagic, and breeds on coastal lowlands and slopes in areas with low forest, bracken, or rank grass (del Hoyo et al. 1992). It nests in burrows amongst low vegetation and roots on flat to moderately sloping ground (Marchant and Higgins 1990). This species is classified as Critically Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List because it is restricted to South East Island and inferred to be continuing to decline due to competition from other native burrowing seabirds (IUCN 2002). The population estimate for this species is 800 1,000 birds with a decreasing population trend (BirdLife International 2000). There is intense competition for burrows on South East Island with the abundant broadbilled prion (Pachyptila vittata), which may be the cause of the observed low breeding success and high rate of pair bond disruption (ibid.). As a conservation measure, artificial nest sites have been provided, and burrows have been blocked to prevent occupation by P. vittata (ibid.). Although these actions have greatly improved breeding success, only a small proportion of breeding burrows have been found (Taylor 2000).
This species does not represent a monotypic genus. It has a restricted range and its population is declining. The threat to the species is high and imminent. Therefore, this species receives a priority rank of 2.
Cook's petrel (Pterodroma cookii)
Cook's petrel is endemic to New Zealand. It is marine and highly
pelagic in temperate and subtropical waters, and rarely approaches land
except at nesting colonies (del Hoyo et al. 1992). Cook's petrel breeds
on Little Barrier, Great Barrier, and Codfish Islands (del Hoyo et al.
1992) and occupies thickly forested high ridges and slopes, up to 700 m
above sea level (BirdLife International 2000). This species is
classified as Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List because it has a very small range when breeding, and
[[Page 29361]]
although population numbers are increasing, there is a danger that the
population on Great Barrier Island may be lost (IUCN 2002). Population
estimate for this species is 100,000 birds and increasing (BirdLife
International 2000). Threats to this species are predominantly from
invasive species such as cats, black rats (Rattus rattus), Pacific rats
(R. exulans), and the weka (Gallirallus australis), which are major
predators of adults and chicks (Heather and Robertson 1997; Taylor
2000). By 1980, cats were eradicated from Little Barrier Island, and
wekas were eradicated from Codfish Island between 1980 and 1985 (Taylor
2000). Pacific rats were successfully eradicated from Codfish Island in
August 1998, and eradication from Little Barrier Island has been proposed (Conservation News 2002).
This species does not represent a monotypic genus, and has a fairly
good population size, which is increasing. Its primary threat is a
limited breeding range and predation by introduced species. However,
the threats have been reduced by eradication of introduced predators,
which is ongoing. Therefore, the threat is moderate and imminent, and the species receives a priority ranking of 8.
Galapagos petrel (Pterodroma phaeopygia; Previously Referred to as Pterodroma phaeopygia phaeopygia)
The Galapagos petrel is a pelagic marine bird endemic to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador (BirdLife International 2000). It breeds on Santa Cruz, Floreana, Santiago, San Cristobal, Isabela, and possibly other islands in the archipelago (Cruz and Cruz 1987; H. Vargas and F. Cruz in litt. 2000, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). This species is classified as Critically Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List because of its history of declines (IUCN 2002). In the early 1980s, this species underwent extremely rapid declines, in some cases by as much as 81 percent in 4 years, and the species is likely to have declined by more than 80 percent in the last 60 years (three generations) (ibid.). The population estimate for this species is 20,00060,000 birds with a decreasing population trend (BirdLife International 2000). Threats for this species include introduced dogs, cats, and pigs, which take eggs, young, and adults; black rats and brown rats (R. norvegicus), which take eggs and chicks; nestsite destruction by goats, donkeys, cattle, and horses; and predation by the Galapagos hawk (Buteo galapagoensis) (Cruz and Cruz 1987; Cruz and Cruz 1996). Predator control and petrel monitoring is occurring on Floreana, Santa Cruz, and Santiago Islands (H. Vargus and F. Cruz in litt. 2000, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). The breeding areas on Santa Cruz, Floreana, and San Cristobal have been severely restricted due to clearance of vegetation for agriculture and intensive grazing (Cruz and Cruz 1987; Cruz and Cruz 1996), and at least half the breeding range is still farmed on Santa Cruz (Baker 1980, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). The Galapagos Islands are a national park and were declared a World Heritage Site in 1979 (BirdLife International 2000).
This species does not represent a monotypic genus, but it is declining and has persistent threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. Therefore, this species receives a priority rank of 2. Magenta petrel (Pterodroma magentae)
The magenta petrel is known from Chatham Island, New Zealand. It breeds in a fragmented colony under dense forest (BirdLife International 2000) and is marine and presumably pelagic (del Hoyo et al. 1992). The magenta petrel was rediscovered in 1978 after 10 years of intensive searching (Crockett 1994, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). This species is listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN because it has undergone a historic decline that is assumed to be greater than 80 percent in 60 years, it has a very small population, and it is restricted to one extremely small location (IUCN 2002). The population is estimated to number 100150 individuals, and the long term reduction in numbers may have begun to stabilize (BirdLife International 2000). However, it is premature to assume that there is not a continuing decline. The species is predominantly threatened by introduced species that take eggs, chicks, and adults, or compete for or cause the destruction of burrows (BirdLife International 2000).
The magenta petrel does not represent a monotypic genus. The magnitude of threat to the species is high, and the immediacy is imminent. It therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
Heinroth's shearwater (Puffinus heinrothi)
The Heinroth's shearwater is known from the Bismarck Archipelago and around Bougainville in Papua New Guinea and Kolombangara in the Solomon Islands (Buckingham et. al. 1995, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). It is marine and presumably pelagic (del Hoyo et al. 1992). It is likely to breed on high, inaccessible mountains, where introduced rats, cats, and dogs are potential threats to this species. There are a number of target actions identified for this species by BirdLife International, which include various surveys and assessing the presence of introduced mammals on suspected breeding grounds (BirdLife International 2000). The Heinroth's shearwater is categorized as Vulnerable by the IUCN on the basis that there may be a very small population and breeding range (IUCN 2002). The population estimate for this species is 250999 birds with an unknown population trend (BirdLife International 2000). There is no substantial evidence of a decline (IUCN 2002).
Heinroth's shearwater does not represent a monotypic genus. It faces threats that are moderate and nonimminent. Therefore, it receives a priority rank of 11.
Greater adjutant stork (Leptoptilos dubius)
The greater adjutant stork previously occurred, often in huge numbers, in much of South and Southeast Asia, from Pakistan through northern India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, to Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Viet Nam, and Cambodia (BirdLife International 2000). However, the species has experienced a dramatic crash, and currently, the population estimate is at 700800 birds (BirdLife International 2000). Breeding populations of the species remain in only two very small and highly disjunct populations: One in Assam (Saikia and Bhattacharjee 1989, as cited in BirdLife International 2001) and the other in Cambodia (Mundkur et al. 1995, as cited in BirdLife International 2001). In the last century, there were vast colonies of millions in Burma, and del Hoyo et al. (1992) indicate that in Calcutta there was ``almost one on every roof.'' It frequents marshes, lakes, paddyfields, and open forest, and is often found in dry areas, such as grasslands and fields. It is commonly found at carcasses and rubbish dumps at the edges of towns.
The greater adjutant is classified as Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List. The key threats are direct exploitation, particularly at nesting colonies, habitat destruction, particularly lowland deforestation and the felling of nest trees, and drainage, conversion, pollution, and overexploitation of wetlands. The Indian population is also considered threatened by the reduced use of open rubbish dumps for the disposal of carcasses and foodstuffs (BirdLife International 2000).
The greater adjutant stork does not represent a monotypic genus,
but it faces threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. It therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
[[Page 29362]]
Andean flamingo (Phoenicopterus andinus)
The Andean flamingo is restricted to highaltitude salt lakes in the high Andes, mainly between 3,500 and 4,500 m, from southern Peru through Bolivia to northern Chile and northwestern Argentina (del Hoyo et al. 1992). Population assessments for this species are difficult and vary greatly, but it is believed that 50,000100,000 individuals existed until the mid1980s. The collection of eggs to sell as food was intensive during the mid20th Century and early 1980s, with estimates of thousands of eggs being taken. Unfavorable water levels due to weather and manipulation, mining activities, erosion of nest sites, and human disturbance may also affect productivity. The latest population estimate, from 1997, was 33,927 birds, which suggests the species had declined rapidly during the preceding 1015 years (BirdLife International 2000). Very low breeding success has been reported for this species (del Hoyo et al. 1992). The Andean flamingo was recently categorized as Vulnerable by the IUCN and is listed in Appendix II of CITES. Threats to this species include ongoing exploitation and a decline in habitat quality (IUCN 2002). Local conservation actions include habitat management, prevention of eggcollecting, and raising public awareness (BirdLife International 2000).
The Andean flamingo does not represent a monotypic genus. It faces threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. It therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus)
The Brazilian Merganser is found in extremely low numbers at a few, highly disjunct localities in southcentral Brazil (BirdLife International 2000). Its range also extends into eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. It is found in rapid, torrential streams and fastmoving rivers surrounded by dense tropical forests. The species is believed to be mainly sedentary and presumably maintains its territory all year round (del Hoyo et al. 1992). The Brazilian merganser is a good swimmer and diver, and feeds primarily on fish and occasionally on aquatic insects and snails (Collar et al. 1992).
Recent records from Brazil, and particularly a recent northerly range extension, indicate that the status of this species is better than previously thought (BirdLife International 2000). However, it remains close to extinction and is considered Critically Endangered (IUCN 2002). The population is currently estimated at 50249 individuals and is decreasing (BirdLife International 2000). Threats include the perturbation and pollution of rivers, which result predominately from deforestation, agriculture, and diamond mining in the Serra da Canastra area. Dambuilding has flooded suitable habitat, especially in Brazil and Paraguay, and hunting and collection of exhibition specimens in Argentina are considered contributory factors to this species' decline (BirdLife International 2000). The Brazilian merganser is considered extinct in Mato Grosso do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo, and Santa Catarina (ibid.). There is only one recent record from Misiones, Argentina (Benstead 1994; Hearn 1994, as cited in Collar et al. 1994), and it was last recorded in Paraguay in 1984 (BirdLife International 2001). There is little, if any, habitat left (Brooks et al. 1993, as cited in Collar et al. 1994). This species is legally protected in Brazil, where it occurs in three Brazilian national parks (del Hoyo et al. 1992).
This species does not represent a monotypic genus, but it faces threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. It therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
Cauca guan (Penelope perspicax)
The cauca guan is endemic to the west slopes of the West and Central Andes (Risaralda, Quindio, Valle del Cauca, and Cauca), Colombia (Collar et al. 1992). The stronghold for the species is in the Ucumari Regional Park, Risaralda (BirdLife International 2000). The Cauca guan inhabits large, humid primary forests at 1,6002,150m (Salaman in litt. 1999, as cited in BirdLife International 2000). Records at 9001,600m have been from plantations of exotic broadleaf trees, secondary forest, and forest edge (BirdLife International 2000). This species was not considered uncommon at the beginning of the 20th Century, but has suffered from severe loss of habitat (del Hoyo et al. 1994). The current population estimates is 1,0002,499 individuals with a decreasing trend (BirdLife International 2000). It is also hunted for food even in some protected areas, except in Ucumari (ibid.). It is listed as Endangered by IUCN because it has a very small range in which severely fragmented habitat patches are declining (IUCN 2002). Its population is believed to be very small and divided into extremely small subpopulations, which are inferred to be declining from ongoing habitat loss and hunting (ibid.).
This species does not represent a monotypic genus, but faces threats that are high in magnitude and imminent. This species therefore receives a priority rank of 2.
Southern helmeted curassow (Pauxi unicornis)
The southern helmeted curassow is known from central Bolivia and central and eastern Peru, where it inhabits dense, humid, lower montane forest and adjacent evergreen forest at 4501,200m (BirdLife International, 2000). The fallen nuts of the almendrillo (Bryrsonima wadsworthii) constitute this species' major food, and it presumably also takes other fallen fruits, including those from three types of laurels and negrillo (del Hoyo et al. 1994). The southern helmeted curassow is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, and the population is estimated at fewer than 10,000 birds, with a decreasing population trend (BirdLife International 2000). In Bolivia, professional hunters have caused a decline in the population. In addition, local people in the area fashion cigarette lighters from the curassow's horn, or casque (Cordier 1971, as cited in Collar et al. 1992). In Amboro National Park, the bird is often eaten and its head skewered for use in folk dances (Hardy 1984, as cited in Collar et al. 1992). Other threats include forest clearing within its range, road building and development, and in Peru, oil exploration (BirdLife International 2000). Large parts of the southern helmeted curassow's range are protected by inclusion in the Amboro and Carrasco National Parks. Further work in the low Andean foothills and outlying ridges in the region of the PeruBolivia border is likely to reveal new populations (Collar et al. 1992). Discovery of new populations, as well as increased protections in Bolivian national parks and other specific measures to conserve the species, could lead to future reclassification (IUCN 2002).
The southern helmeted currasow does not represent a monotypic genus. It faces threats that are moderate in magnitude and imminent. Therefore, it receives a priority rank of 8.
Bluebilled curassow (Crax alberti)
The bluebilled curassow historically occurred in northern
Colombia, from the base of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta west to the
Sinu Valley and south in Magdalena Valley to north Tolima (BirdLife
International 2000). It inhabits humid forest in lowlands and foothills
and on lower mountain slopes in the tropical zone. This species of
curassow occurs up to 1,200 m, but is more common below 600 m (del Hoyo et al. 1994). It feeds on fruit, shoots,
[[Page 29363]]
invertebrates, and possibly carrion (BirdLife International 2000).
The bluebilled curassow is categorized as Critically Endangered in the 2002 IUCN Red List and is listed in Appendix III of CITES by Colombia. The species was not common anywhere in the Santa Marta region at the beginning of the 20th Century, although it was perhaps most numerous in the humid lowlands of the north coast (Todd and Carriker 1922, as cited in Collar et al. 1992). It was becoming very rare (Haffner 1975, as cited in Collar et al. 1992), and by the 1980s it had disappeared from most places in which it had previously been found (Estudillo Lopez 1986, as cited in Collar et al. 1992). The population was estimated at 1,0002,500 birds in 1994, and local reports have indicated more recent and rapid declines (BirdLife International 2000). Previous reports indicated that, outside of a few forest patches bordering national parks, the species is almost extinct (L.M. Renjifo, Z. Calle, D. Rodriguez personal communications, as cited in Brooks and Strahl 2000). However, some sites believed to harbor the spec
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Robert R. Gabel at the above address,
or by telephone, 7033581708; fax, 7033582276; or email,
ScientificAuthority@fws.gov.