LE3 .A278 1984

1984

Smith, Peter

Acadia University

Bachelor of Science

Honours

Biology

Biology

This study examines the status of Piping Plover, Charadrius melodus Ord., in Nova Scotia, the hypothesis that recreational activities adversely affect plover reproductive success, and the effectiveness of Piping · Plover interpretation signs. Research, largely undertaken in 1983, was centered at Johnstons Pond, Shelburne Co., although visits were made to nearly all other provincial beaches with suitable habitat. The provincial population in 1983 was 64-69 pairs. This represents a significant decrease, at a rate of approximately 1 pair/year over the past 8 years. Nest and hatching success were 69.7 and 55.8% respectively, while fledging success for chicks aged~ 10 days and~ 17 days was 2.6 and 2.3 young/pair/ successful nest. Fledging success was significantly reduced from 3.1 to 1.6 young/successful nest with respect to low and high human disturbance. In addition to human recreational activities, wet weather also altered behavioural patterns and probably contributed to chick mortality. Encouragingly, Piping Plover interpretation signs in conjunction with a publicity program appear to reduce disturbance and seem to have a positive influence on fledging success. Upon these bases, management recommendations were formulated.

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