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GVI Patagonia
Patagonia Research and Exploration
Phase Report 083
September - December 2008
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GVI Patagonia Expedition Report 083
Submitted toGlobal Vision International
S. Diaz (Biologist, Universidad Nacional del Comahue)S. Lambertucci (Biologist, Universidad Nacional del Comahue)
D. Marty (Estancia San Ramn)H. Pastore (Biologist, Universidad Nacional del Comahue)
S. Peris (Professor, Universidad de Salamanca, Spain)J. Sanguinetti (Biologist, Parque Nacional Lanin)
Produced by
Stephen Meyer Country DirectorCatherine Mc Cune Science and Logistics Manager
Alexa Varah Base Manager
And
Ian Baker Expedition Staff Sarah Johnson Expedition MemberHelena Martn Gutierrez Expedition Staff Rajnik Katugaha Expedition Member
Tom Rehaag Expedition Staff Milena Mozzo Expedition MemberRichard Turley Expedition Staff Sebastian Schneider Expedition Member
Becky Bradley Expedition Member David Spindler Expedition MemberDeborah Cairns Expedition Member Debbie Steer Expedition Member
Terry Cook Expedition Member Sandra Stucky Expedition MemberMichael Emmott Expedition Member Nicole Sweaney Expedition Member
Deb Frazer Expedition Member Eva van der Rijst Expedition MemberMichelle Gane Expedition Member Emma Wager Expedition MemberJoseph Jebelli Expedition Member
Edited byRichard Turley GVI field staff
Catherine McCune Science and Logistics Manager
GVI Patagonia
Address: Casilla de Correo 725, San Carlos de Bariloche 8400, Rio Negro, AgentinaEmail: [email protected]
Web page: http://www.gvi.co.uk and http://www.gviusa.com
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Appendix B. Fragua Grande Last Light Datasheet.................................................43Appendix C. Raptor Transects Diagram.................................................................44Appendix D. Raptor Transects and Point Counts Datasheet .................................45Appendix E. Bird Species.......................................................................................46Appendix F. Migratory Bird Census Datasheet ...................................................... 47Appendix G. Map showing Len Valley, Lago Lolog..............................................48
Appendix H. Location of Jabali Transects (Tromen area) ......................................49Appendix I. Cachaa: Vegetation Transect Datasheet ..........................................50Appendix J. Cachaa: Diet and Habitat Use Datasheet......................................... 51Appendix K. Cachaa: A. araucana Datasheet......................................................52Appendix L. Waterfowl Survey Datasheet..............................................................53Appendix M. Waterfowl Results .............................................................................54
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List of Figures
Figure 2-1. Landscape, Estancia San Ramon .....................................................................2Figure 2-2. Fluctuations in condor numbers from September 2007 to December 2008 ......5Figure 2-3. Fragua Grande condorera, Estancia San Ramon .............................................7Figure 2-4. Height and width measurement points of cliff / condorera...............................12
Figure 2-5. Key for perches on cliff diagram ......................................................................13Figure 2-6. Vegetation recording sheet..............................................................................14Figure 2-7. Basic trends in scavenger and raptor distribution from roadside (station A) tofour kilometres into the steppe (station D) .........................................................................18Figure 2-8. Laguna los Juncos, Estancia San Ramon .......................................................20Figure 2-9. Laguna los Juncos observation methodology..................................................21Figure 2-10. Comparison of total average population of birds on Laguna los Juncos, spring2007 - 2008 ........................................................................................................................22Figure 2-11. Changes in total average waterfowl populations throughout the day, Lagunalos Juncos ..........................................................................................................................23Figure 3-1. Volcn Lann and A. araucanabranches, Lann National Park......................26Figure 3-2. Example of data sheet for a red deer transect................................................28
Figure 3-3. Example of plot recording for wild boar transect AP1.....................................31Figure 3-4. Habitat use by wild boar October November 2008......................................32Figure 3-5. Austral parakeets pair in a nest hole, Lann National Park.............................35Figure 3-6. Vegetation transects from an austral parakeet nest tree................................36Figure 3-7. Seed predation transects from female A. araucana trees .............................37Figure 3-8. Number of waterfowl individuals at lakes surveyed, Lann National Park ......40
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1. Introduction
The Patagonia Research and Exploration Expedition has now completed its ninth phase.
This expedition marked a milestone for GVI Patagonia, completing three years worth ofwork and an end to certain projects in the field. Already, the data collected is helping to
identify potential future research areas and providing important data to the national and
international scientific community. Methodologies continue to be improved and focused as
experience is gained collecting data in the field. A full Annual Report (to be initiated in
January 2009) will collate and summarize all expedition efforts. As all data is collected for
our local partners, the report does not include any specific data analysis, but provides a
careful overview of the methodologies and the work accomplished.
GVI Patagonia has realized the goals of this expedition and completed the planned data
collection for our project partners. For the ninth expedition, we have worked together with
our main partners S. Lambertucci of the Universidad de Comahue (San Carlos de
Bariloche), J. Sanguinetti of Parque Nacional Lann, H. Pastore of the Universidad de
Comahue (San Carlos de Bariloche), S. Diaz of the Universidad de Comahue (San Carlos
de Bariloche) and S. Peris of the Universidad de Salamanca (Salamanca, Spain). Projects
are constantly evolving and we are happy to be working with such strong partners.
GVI Patagonia would like to thank the kind support of Estancia San Ramn and the
National Parks of Argentina for their help during this third expedition of 2008.
In the field, GVI Patagonia would like to thank all of the Volunteers and staff that have
helped to make this expedition a success! They have come a long way and dedicated a lot
of their time and effort to help collect this data in Patagonia.
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2. Patagonian Steppe Projects
The steppe area to the east of Bariloche is dry and rugged, and is part of the home range
of one of the strongest populations of Andean condors in South America. GVI Patagonia
works on four projects in this area, based out of an old schoolhouse in Fragua valley onEstancia San Ramn (Figure 2-1), about 30 kilometres northeast of San Carlos de
Bariloche.
The projects are carried out in conjunction with Sergio Lambertucci, a biologist and condor
expert from the Universidad Nacional del Comahue and CONICET, a government national
research agency, San Carlos de Bariloche.
Figure 2-1. Landscape, Estancia San Ramon
The work carried out for S. Lambertucci by GVI Patagonia is as follows:
Daily and regional Andean condor censuses
Condorera and cliff characterisations
Raptor transects
Migratory bird studies
Before beginning the Andean condor and raptor research, all EMs were tested on the
identification and morphology of V. gryphus and the 12 other scavenger and raptor
species. All names were required to be in Latin, with a mandatory minimum pass rate of
95%.
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2.1 Andean Condor Population Studies
The distribution of the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) throughout South America is
declining. One of the biggest birds in the world, the Andean condor makes an impression
in the sky, with a wingspan reaching up to three metres and a height of 1.3 metres. It isvulnerable to human impacts because it has a slow reproduction rate and requires large
foraging areas. Specific threats to the species include intentional hunting by humans,
ingestion of poisoned carcasses, collision with high-tension wires, loss of traditional
foraging grounds, and competition with other animals. Argentina has one of the strongest
populations of Andean condors in South America; by monitoring these populations we
hope to learn more about the natural history of the condor. This information will help
towards the protection of the species and its habitat. The Andean condor is currently listed
in Appendix I by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of WildFauna and Flora (CITES, 2008) and is considered Near-Threatened by the International
Union for Conservation of Nature (Birdlife International, 2008).
S. Lambertucci has been working on a condor monitoring project for over a decade, with
the aim of prioritizing locations for protection based on their importance to the Andean
condor. Due to the condors large home range, it would be difficult to conserve the entire
area. Thus, S. Lambertucci has directed his focus to the cliffs that are used by the condors
as roosting or resting places, like a form of refuge. These cliffs are known as condoreras.There are a number of known condoreras in the province of Ro Negro and Neuqun, over
90% of which are not in protected areas.
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2.1.1 Andean Condor Regional Census
2.1.1.1 Introduction
The purpose of the regional census is to record the number of adult and juvenile condors
(and their sex, when possible) roosting on specified condoreras in the area around San
Carlos de Bariloche. This is completed twice during every expedition, once after training
and once again at the very end of the expedition. By accumulating this data over a period
of years, S. Lambertucci is better able to understand the total size of the Andean condor
population in the region (one census would be insufficient as condor numbers fluctuate
due to seasonal and climactic changes).
The regional census is also used to compare the difficulty condors have using different
condoreras. To do this, EMs observe how often an individual condor flaps its wings before
landing on the cliff. As a birds action equates to its expended energy, this signifies the skill
a condor would need in order to use certain condoreras and questions what factors could
cause a condor to use condoreras with easier, or more difficult, approaches.
The regional census also allows S. Lambertucci the opportunity to gather genetic
information on condors and other species in the area through feather and fur sample
collection. These are also used to study toxins present in the condors environment.
2.1.1.2 Methodology
The position of the condors at last light and first light is noted on a diagram of the
condorera, as well as the condors age and sex when possible. Last light is determined by
when a volunteer can no longer confidentlydistinguish a juvenile condor from the similarly-
coloured rock face, and first light is determined by when a volunteer can confidently
distinguish a juvenile from the rock face.
Every time a condor approaches or lands on a condorera, the hour, time it takes for the
bird to land, and the number of wing flaps completed during this time are recorded. . The
condors sex and age are very important, and an extended effort is made to note these
details. For an example of the flapping data sheet, see [APPENDIX A]
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Finally, samples are collected, both around and on the way to the condorera. Samples
include feathers, pellets, and the hairs of dead animals. All items are placed into plastic or
paper bags, and their location and the date are recorded on the outside.
2.1.1.3 Results
For the census taken over the 34 October, ten condoreras were monitored, five by GVI
EMs and staff. The census taken from the 34 December included 10 monitored
condoreras, seven of which were by GVI EMs and staff.
During the October census, over 200 condors were counted. In the December census the
figure was lower, with a total closer to 150 condors, and with many of the condoreras
observed without any condor presence. During both counts, data concerning a condorslanding flaps was collected. At all approachable condoreras, samples were collected.
At the time of writing, S. Lambertucci has yet to publish the data collected by GVI
Patagonia and has therefore asked that raw data not be included in any GVI reports. He
has, however, given permission for general trends to be displayed. The graph below
(Figure 2-2) illustrates the pattern that has emerged from the data collected from these
regional censuses over the past year.
Figure 2-2. Fluctuations in condor numbers in the study area from December 2007 to December 2008
Annual fluctuation in condor populations w ithin the steppe
NumberofCondors
December December
2007 2008
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2.1.1.4 Discussion
The number of condors found in the two regional censuses this expedition follows the
general trend that has emerged over the past three years. Illustrated in Figure 2-2, the
trend shows condor numbers in the study area as low in the summer months, rising
through the autumn to a peak in late winter and early spring, and then falling again as
summer approaches. The condor population uses a larger area than the area being
monitored, and the birds move to different parts of their range in the summer months when
better weather allows them to move to higher, more exposed areas.
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2.1.2 Andean Condor Daily Census
2.1.2.1 Introduction
In Fragua valley, EMs monitor two condoreras Grande and Roca, at both first light and last
light during this phase of the expedition. This continues data collected over the past two
and a half years from these condoreras.
Figure 2-3. Fragua Grande condorera, Estancia San Ramon
2.1.2.2 Methodology
Daily monitoring consists of a census count of the condors on the condorera and in the sky
at last light and then again in the morning at first light. Again, last light is determined by
when an Expedition Member can no longer confidently distinguish a juvenile condor from
the similarly-coloured rock face, and first light is determined by when a volunteer can
confidently distinguish a juvenile from the rock face. The position of each condor is
recorded on a diagram according to the particular shelf or area of the condorera that is
occupied. Counts are completed at last light and again at first light to ensure the closest
accurate count of birds roosting that night.
A copy of the last light diagram for Fragua Grande is given [APPENDIX B].
As well as condor numbers, a general description of the climatic conditions is recorded,
including temperature, cloud cover, precipitation, wind direction and wind strength. S.
Lambertucci has proposed that the weather conditions and the aspects of the condoreras
in relation to weather are ruling factors for determining site choice by condors. S.
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Lambertucci has weather stations in the area and registers humidity, temperature, rainfall,
wind speed and direction. By having GVI EMs record weather information at the
condoreras, S. Lambertucci can determine when weather patterns arrive at monitored
points, some more than 40 kilometres away from his weather stations.
Finally, at the end of each day, EMs take responsibility for data accuracy. Both the data
sheets and diagrams are checked for completeness by an EM and then stored in the
finished data sheet box for a final check by the base manager.
2.1.2.3 Results
GVI Patagonia completed 23 days of census monitoring of the two condoreras this
expedition.
At the time of writing, S. Lambertucci has yet to publish the data collected by GVI
Patagonia. He has asked that raw data not be included in any GVI reports until he has
published his findings. However, the general pattern emerging from the results this
expedition is that there were consistently more condors present on the condorera at last
light than at first light.
2.1.2.4 Discussion
The fact that there were generally more condors at last light than at first light indicates that
some condors arrived after last light or left before first light. This is similar to the pattern
observed in the last expedition (08 2, 2008). Until publication of his results, S. Lambertucci
can not yet offer an explanation for this behaviour.
Numbers of condors at Grande this year also followed the general trend for the area as a
whole: numbers were low in the summer of 2008, then rose considerably through the
autumn and winter (08 1, 2008 and 08 2, 2008) and remained high this expedition, falling
towards the end of the expedition as summer approached. This fluctuation in numbers
may be attributed to the same factors affecting the population as a whole: in brief, the
condor population uses a larger area than the area being monitored, and the birds move to
different parts of their range in the summer months when better weather allows them to
move to higher, more exposed areas.
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2.2 Condorera and Cliff Characterisation
2.2.1 Introduction
With an increased knowledge of how certain condoreras in the region are used by
condors, S. Lambertucci is expanding his research to examine the surrounding steppearea. He wants to know why certain condoreras are used more than others, and why some
cliffs are used as condoreras whilst nearby similar cliffs are not. What are the factors that
make a cliff suitable for use as a condorera?
To do this, S. Lambertucci is focusing on the physical characteristics of the condorera as
well as the physical and human geographical features of the area, taking into
consideration weather and seasonal variation. At the same time, he is observing how other
plant and animal species also depend on the areas around these cliffs, which provideprotection, food and water resources within the arid steppe region. By understanding what
makes a certain cliff or surrounding area a good place for a condorera, he will have a
better understanding of where conservation of condoreras, with their rare and richly
diverse ecosystem of local flora and fauna, will be most beneficial.
During the 2008 spring expedition, GVI characterised six condoreras and the cliffs around
them, as well as cliffs around two more condoreras that were characterised during the
previous expedition.
2.2.2 Methodology
During a condorera or cliff characterisation several types of data are collected: physical
characteristics of the cliff; physical characteristics of perches; and physical characteristics
of the area. These variables, and the methodologies, are explained in more detail in the
following sections.
In order to locate suitable cliffs to characterise around a condorera, EMs and staff are
provided with maps and satellite images of the area. The aim is to find one suitable cliff at
roughly each cardinal point around the condorera that looks steep enough and large
enough to be useful in the study. Once in the area, EMs then walk to these pre-determined
locations and selected cliffs to characterise. Where possible, one of the four cliffs being
characterised in the area around a condorera should have the same aspect as the
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condorera itself. Cliffs also need to be similar to a condorera in terms of size and
steepness and presence of at least some ledges. Cliffs are to be within five kilometres of
the condorera if possible, though up to ten kilometres away is acceptable if necessary.
2.2.2.1 Condor behaviour and use of the area
If the cliff being characterised is a condorera, and the EMs are staying in the area
overnight, they also carry out first and last light censuses and flap counts: this provides
data on condor behaviour and use of the area.
Data on condor age, sex and movements allows S. Lambertucci to understand the
behaviour of the condors using the particular condoreras. Though this is only a window
into the overall usage of the area throughout the year, it allows S. Lambertucci tounderstand if older, more experienced birds or younger, less experienced birds use
particular condoreras or particular areas of a condorera, and if males or females are more
common in the area. For this reason, it is especially important for the EMs to take the time
to try and identify the age and sex of every condor in the area. This part of the data
collection includes three parts:
First Light and Last Light monitoring
This consists of a census count of the condors on the condorera and in the sky at first lightand at last light. Again, last light is determined by when a volunteer can no longer
confidently distinguish a juvenile condor from the similarly-coloured rock face, and first
light is determined by when a volunteer can confidently distinguish a juvenile from the rock
face. The position of each condor is recorded on a diagram according to the particular
shelf or area of the condorera that is occupied. Counts are completed at last light and
again at first light to ensure the closest accurate count of birds roosting that night. This is
the same methodology used for daily census counts at Fragua Grande and Fragua Roca.
For an example data sheet, see [Appendix B].
Flapping
Every time a condor approaches or lands on a condorera, the hour, time it takes for the
bird to land, and the number of wing flaps (differentiating between flying flaps and landing
flaps) are recorded. The age and sex of the condor is also recorded. By monitoring the
amount of energy a bird needs to land (in terms of flapping, number of landing attempts
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and time taken to land), S. Lambertucci can begin to understand whether some cliffs are
harder to land at than others, and if more experienced birds benefit from using a particular
cliff more than inexperienced birds. In conjunction with other data from the condorera
characterisation, he can also start to understand whether a certain age class would
choose to use a particular condorera and what factors exist to expain the reason for this.For an example of the flapping data sheet, see [APPENDIX A].
Sample collection
Feathers, pellets, and the hairs of dead animals are collected, both around and on the way
to the condorera. If the cliff is not a condorera, sample collection is limited to feathers of
other birds and hair samples from other animals. All items are placed into plastic or paper
bags, and their location and the date are recorded on the outside. S. Lambertucci uses
these samples to collect genetic information on the birds using the area, information oncondor diet, and information on toxic substances in the condors environment.
2.2.2.2 Physical characteristics of the cliff
This part of the characterisation looks at the physical variables that may affect condor use
of a cliff. Properties examined include:
Rock typeOnly a general geological rock type is needed (such as metamorphic, sedimentary or
basaltic). To verify the classification of the rock, a sample is collected, labelled and brought
back to S. Lambertucci.
Height and width of the wall
A GPS and clinometre are used to record these measurements. EMs walk to the actual
edges of the condorera and, using a GPS, record the latitude, longitude, and elevation
(above sea level) at each side and at top and the base (Figure 2-4). If a condorera is madeup of several different parts, multiple points are used to record its full length and height.
Whenever the base or top of the cliff are unable to be reached safely, a clinometre is used
to calculate the angle to the top of the cliff and to the base of the cliff from the viewing
station. In Figure 2-4, the parts in bold type are filled in if the top and base are able to be
reached. The parts in italics are filled in if a clinometre has to be used (distance may have
to be partly estimated).
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General aspect of the wall
Using a compass, the direction in which the cliff is facing is recorded.
Figure 2-4. Height and width measurement points of cliff / condorera (extract from characterisationdata sheet)
2.2.2.3 Physical characteristics of perches
Data includes information on perches along the condorera, allowing insight as to the total
population of condors the area may hold. EMs draw a diagram of the cliff and then
superimpose over this a 15-squared. Ledges that could be used, or are used, as perches
are located within this grid and then categorised as follows:
Size There are three categories used to measure the length of the cliff. If the perch isbigger than the Large category, it is divided into multiple parts and smaller categories are
used. The categories used are:
Small: holding one to two condors
Medium: holding five condors
Large: holding six to 10 condors
Aspect Using only cardinal points, this is done by grid square rather than individual perch.
FaecesA perch is categorised as either having or not having faeces.
Vegetation A perch is described as having vegetation, or as being baren (no vegetation).Cave A perch may be a shallow ledge along the cliff, or may go deeper into the rock face.
If so, it is classified as a cave.
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The following symbols are used to indicate on the diagram the following:
Perches withoutfaeces: Perches withfaeces: Other:
= chico perch = chico perch V = perch with vegetation
= medium perch = medium perch = cave
= grande perch = grande perch
Figure 2-5. Key for perches on cliff diagram (extract from characterisation data sheet)
Height
After examining the entire cliff face, the perch lowest to the ground is measured using the
clinometre and the distance from the ground is recorded. This is also repeated for the
perch highest on the cliff, and its distance from the top of the condorerea is recorded.
Predator Access
After examining the layout of the condorera and the location of the perches along the cliff
face, EMs assess the likelihood of a predator accessing the perches. If the cliff is slightly
sloping, or broken into many parts, it may be easier for predators to approach roosting
locations, as opposed to a steep cliff with difficult access.
2.2.2.4 Physical characteristics of the area
This part of the data collection examines the environment on a larger scale to see if factors
from around the cliff itself make it an appealing condorera. Aspects include:
Availability of food
This examines the number of animals in the area and their rough density per hectar.
Animals include sheep, goat, cow, horse, red deer and guanaco. Data is collected by
speaking to the owner, manager, or worker of the estancia. By understanding what food ispotentially available in the area, it is possible to see the type and quantity available to
supply a condor population of a certain size, as well as the risks posed by certain foods.
Human acivity
This includes anything within sight of the condorera, such as buildings (cities, towns,
farms, houses, etc.), tourism (and the type), livestock (percentage of area covered), and
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plantation (percentage of area covered). Location and distance from the condorera are
recorded using a GPS. Whenever an object is too far away from the cliff to take GPS
coordinates, a bearing and estimated distance is taken.
RoadsThe locations of all trails and roads (paved, dirt or gravel) within sight of the condorera are
recorded using GPS. If the road is too far away to measure using a GPS, its distance is
estimated and a bearing from the cliff is recorded.
Water
The locations of all water resources in the area within sight of the condorera are recorded
using GPS. If the distance to the water source is too far to measure using a GPS, its
distance is estimated and a bearing from the cliff is recorded.
Vegetation
In order to understand the general environment of the area, six 10 metre by 10 metre
squares of vegetation are examined (see Figure 2-6). Vegetation is described in basic
terms (grasses, bushes, trees, water, etc.) and the percentage of each type is measured
within the square.
Figure 2-6. Vegetation recording sheet (extract from characterisation data sheet)
2.2.3 Results
In total, GVI Patagonia EMs spent a combined total of 26 days studying eight locations (in
two locations the condoreras themselves had aready been characterised so EMs only had
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to characterise the surrounding cliffs). In total, 38 cliffs were characterised, six of which
were condoreras and 32 of which were surrounding cliffs not used as condoreras.
In total, GVI Patagonia travelled over 900 kilometres by land rover and foot to study these
sites. This is measured as the crow flies and does not take into account variations interrain.
Of the six condoreras characterised, condors roosted at four of them whilst EMs were in
the area. EMs therefore carried out first and last light monitoring and flap counts. Large
amounts of samples were also gathered during the characterisations.
At one of the more remote condoreras, Chaqueita, one dead juvenile male condor was
found in the valley below the condorera. The location was marked and the corpse wassubsequently collected for further analysis by S. Lambertucci.
As S. Lambertucci has yet to formally publish the data collected by GVI Patagonia, he has
asked that we refrain from using raw data in any GVI reports until he has published his
results.
2.2.4 Discussion
It is, as yet, too early to be able to analyse any data. Until GVI and S. Lambertucci have
collected data on all the condoreras in the study, and until S. Lambertucci has analysed
the data, no trends or conclusions can be drawn.
As for the dead male condor, S. Lambertucci is now collecting genetic information on this
bird, as well as clues indicating why it may have died.
Despite the time-consuming and detailed nature of the data collection, GVI Patagonia EMsand staff did a fantastic job collecting a huge amount of data characterising eight locations
in the space of just a few weeks. A quicker methodology was developed involving high-
definition photographs of the cliffs to locate, label and categorize perches, which proved
time-saving and less subjective than the current method. Finally, there were also some
exhilarating close encounters with curious condors which flew within metres of some lucky
EMs and staff.
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2.2 Four Kilometre Raptor Transects
2.2.1 Introduction
Over the past two years, GVI Patagonia has helped S. Lambertucci study the types of
raptors found in areas close to and then systematically further away from roads. Andeancondors, being such large birds, may have a hard time gaining the momentum to fly away
when on the ground and in a difficult situation, such as near a road with an oncoming car
or near human disturbances. S. Lambertucci wants to know if factors such as these
change raptor distribution, and if so, in what way.
Continuing with the same methodology developed from the summer expedition (08 1,
2008), raptor transects are carried out in two directions; walking from the road out into the
steppe, and the same transect is also completed starting in the steppe and walking back tothe road. This allows the EMs to produce a set of data that is not skewed by the time of
day in which it is collected.
2.2.2 Methodology
A grid system is created along the area around Fragua, extending five kilometres to the
east and five kilometres to the west of a point on Ruta 23, with 11 roadside points along
this east-west line. From each roadside point, a four kilometre transect is measured out to
34o north, and another four kilometre transect is measured out to 214o south.For transect
diagram, see [APPENDIX C]
For each four kilometre transect, a 30-minute census is carried out at the road and then
again at the first, second and fourth kilometres. This gives three census points getting
progressively further from the road, and one census point deeper into the steppe. The road
point is labelled station A, and the following three are station B, station C, and station D
(this one being the furthest into the steppe). The coordinates of the points are identified
using GPS. EMs are expected to look for birds within a 500 metre radius of the census
point, ensuring a reduced chance of double-counting birds and a better chance of
confidently and correctly identifying a bird.
For each location, the start and stop times are recorded, as well as any raptors spotted,
the number of individuals, their estimated distance and bearing, as well as each birds
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behaviour (flying, feeding, mating, fighting, etc). (See [APPENDIX E] for list of raptors).
Raptor species spotted between transect points are also included. At station A and station
D the weather conditions are noted; this is in order to assess whether any weather
changes during the transect have an effect on the number of species spotted over the
entire transect. For the raptor transect data sheet, see [APPENDIX D]
Since some birds are more active in the cooler morning as opposed to the hotter mid-day,
transects are started soon after sunrise. However, due to the length of the transect, the
last station is often not reached until the afternoon. S. Lambertucci worries that this could
produce a skewed number of birds in different locations. To counter this, EM groups also
complete censuses starting at station D, four kilometres into the steppe, and finish the
transect at station A, along the road. To make this possible, EMs leave the night before,
travelling into the steppe for the night, and start the transect early in the morning thefollowing day. Usually, the EMs leave enough time to complete a neighbouring transect on
the way out, resulting in a web of transects completed from station A o station D in the
afternoon, station D to station A in the morning, and of course the standard station A to
station D in the morning.
2.2.3 Results
In total, GVI EMs and staff completed 12 transects over an 80 square kilometre area. Sixwere completed by travelling from station A to D, starting the transect at the road; the other
six were completed in the opposite direction (starting at station D in the steppe and
finishing the transect at station A by the road).
GVI EMs and staff hiked 48 kilometres while completing the actual transects, and over 170
kilometres roundtrip (including the distance travelled to and from the transects). All
distances are measured as the crow files, and do not take into consideration the extremely
hilly terrain.
As S. Lambertucci has yet to formally publish the data collected by GVI Patagonia, he has
asked that we refrain from using raw data in any GVI reports until he has published his
results. He has given permission to include the following graph (Figure 2-7), which is a
very crude analysis of the data to show the general trend in distribution of raptor and
scavenger species from the roadside to the four kilometre point. This analysis only takes
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into account distance from the road and does not consider any of the other factors about
which information was gathered (such as presence of buildings, forests, watercourses
etc.).
Figure 2-7. Basic trends in scavenger and raptor distribution from roadside (station A) to fourkilometres into the steppe (station D)
2.2.4 Discussion
A brief analysis of the results (Figure 2-7) shows that Vultur gryphuswas present through
out the census, but three and a half times more of these birds were found at roadside
stations than further into the steppe. This is broadly consistent with the findings from the
winter expedition where the number of condors was a third higher at the roadside than at
other locations. S. Lambertucci stresses that these numbers relate to condors that were
seen flying; his theory (mentioned briefly in the introduction to this section) that condors
are less likely to be present at roadside stations relates to birds feeding: condors may
have a hard time gaining the momentum to fly away when on the ground and in a difficult
situation, such as near a road with an oncoming car or near human disturbances.
One reason for the high numbers of condors spotted at roadside stations could be that
many of these stations are near to condoreras (Roca, Grande and Ruta). As many of the
roadside stations are monitored early in the morning, with transects moving from station A
to station D, Andean condors would be spotted as they left the condoreras after roosting
there overnight.
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Geranoaetus melanoleucuswas also found in higher numbers at the roadside than further
into the steppe, as was Coragyps atratus, a result consistent with the theory that this last
species is thought to spread its territory with the growth of roads.
All other raptor species had more even distributions along transects, though most speciesshowed a slight propensity to be more common at roadside stations than at the four
kilometre stations. Cathartes aura, a frequenter of this area in the the warmer months of
the year, made a return this expedition after being absent during the winter. Other species,
such as Parabuteo unicinctusand Elanus leucurus, were not spotted at all.
S. Lambertucci stresses that, until proper, detailed analysis of the data is complete, it is
not possible to tell which factors are influencing raptor and scavenger distribution. Initial
findings by S. Lambertucci indicate that some raptor species are being given an advantageby the presence of roads whereas other species do not benefit. However, proximity to
roads is only one factor and is not the sole influence. He expects that distribution is
affected by the presence of estancia buildings and other human presence, also by
proximity to forested areas (including plantations) and other factors about which
information was gathered during the course of each transect.
The EMs ability to travel into the steppe and collect data during raptor transects was
sometimes hindered by very strong winds and heavy rain. Three overnight transectsstarted in the afternoon had to be cancelled due to heavy rain.However, thanks to their
efforts, the data collected will allow a greater insight into the total raptor distribution in this
area throughout the year.
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2.3 Migratory Bird Census
2.3.1 Introduction
S. Lambertucci is working with Paisaje Protegido Ro Limay, a group comprising of
scientists from different national and international NGOs, the Consejo de Medio Ambiente
de Ro Negro and others. They aim to conserve areas of importance near the Ro Limay.
The group is interested in understanding how migrating water birds use the steppe region
and the importance of water resources to their survival. S. Lambertucci is studying Laguna
los Juncos, a privately-protected lagoon on Estancia San Ramn.
In 1998, S. Lambertucci completed his first census counts of migratory birds on Laguna los
Juncos (Figure 2-8). This lagoon, located in the steppe transition zone, is the last lagoon
for many kilometres before the steppe starts in earnest. It is also a major stopping ground
for hundreds of migrating birds in the summer season. S. Lambertucci wants to see
whether the population of its more common migrating species has changed from ten years
ago.
Figure 2-8. Laguna los Juncos, Estancia San Ramon
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2.3.2 Methodology
The lagoon is divided into three sections west, central and east using imaginary lines
drawn between easily-identifiable locations on the lagoon shore. In each of these sections
is an observation point with a clear view of part of the lagoon, from where birds can beeasily counted (see Figure 2-9 below).
Figure 2-9. Laguna los Juncos observation methodology
Three or four EMs are needed to do one survey. One EM starts at the east observationpoint and walks slowly along the east shore to the south side of the lagoon. A second EM
starts at the west observation point and walks slowly along the west shore to the south-
west point of the lagoon. Typically two EMs are stationed at the central observation point,
one with a telescope and the other with binoculars. The telescope is needed because the
central observation point covers the largest area and the opposite shore is distant
At each observation point EMs count and then record on a data sheet the number of birds
of each species present. Birds on the lagoon and along its shore are included. All birds areput into one of two categories: those that are more than 20 metres from the shore (of the
whole lagoon, not just the viewing location), and those that are less than 20 metres from
the shore. Neither raptors nor domestic birds are included. For a list of birds monitored, as
well as their common name, see [Appendix E]. A space is left for birds not on the list. For
data sheet, see [Appendix F].
Key:
= observation point= path walked by observer
- - - = imaginary dividing line= direction of count
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In order to avoid double-counting birds, EMs count in a specific pattern (shown on Figure
2-9 by green arrows). EMs observing from the central station start counting at the east
side of their section and sweep to the west of their section. The EM counting birds in the
east section starts their count at the border with the central section and sweeps east to the
lagoon shore. This means that, once the count is complete, the EMs who did the centraland east sections compare notes: for example, if they both got a group of five A. sybilatrix
on the border between the two sections at the beginning of the count, then this is probably
the same group of ducks and one lot will be discounted. In the same way, the EM covering
the west section will start their count at the lagoon shore and sweep east, to end up at the
dividing line between their section and the central section. In this way, the number of birds
recorded at the end of the observation period for the west and central sections are
compared, and any similar counts are probably duplicates and are therefore corrected.
The census is completed three times a day, in the morning, early afternoon, and evening.
For each census, the start and finish times are recorded, as are weather conditions
(temperature, wind speed and direction, cloud cover and type, and precipitation).
2.3.3 Results
EMs monitored Laguna los Juncos three times a day for seven days, spread over the 10
October to 6 November 2008.
The total average number of birds counted on the lagoon this expedition was 245 birds.
Figure 2-10 shows how this compares to the three previous expeditions.
Figure 2-10. Comparison of total average population of birds on Laguna los Juncos, spring 2007 - 2008
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One of the aims of this project was to see the change in waterfowl numbers over the
course of the day. Below are the average totals taken over the seven days of census.
Figure 2-11. Changes in total average waterfowl populations throughout the day, Laguna los Juncos
In terms of individual species, numbers of Anas species are slightly up in general this
spring compared to last spring, as are numbers of Fulica leucoptera and Podiceps
occipitalis. There are some noticeable absences too: the Chilean flamingo,
Phoenicopterus chilensis, was hardly seen at all, and another coot species, Fulica
armilata, was present in far lower numbers than last spring.
2.3.4 Discussion
The waterfowl species being studied tend to spend the summer in the south of Argentina,
and the winter in the north of the country. Figure 2-10 illustrates this: high numbers of
waterfowl were present on the lagoon in summer 2008, and then numbers fell in the winter
as the birds moved to the warmer north of the country. The rising numbers counted this
spring expedition are evidence of the birds movement back to the south as the weatherimproves. It is interesting to note that numbers this spring are almost exactly the same as
those recorded last spring (the total average numbers show a difference of just 5 birds
more this spring), possibly indicating that the drought experienced since last summer is not
adversely affecting waterfowl migrations.
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It can be seen from Figure 2-11 that more birds were spotted on the laguna in the evening
than at other times of day. This could indicate that birds are using the laguna as a safe
place to roost but may be flying elsewhere to feed during the day. This data might also
reflect the human usage of the area: it could be that there is more human presence in the
morning and middle of the day than there is in the evening; therefore birds are disturbedless in the evening and more likely to be present. Without studies of human use of the
area it is impossible to tell if this is the case.
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2.4 Additional Notes
During their time on the condor project, Expedition Members were fortunate enough to
stay within the private Estancia San Ramn, an incredible location containing a great
range of wildlife that GVI Patagonia is only able to witness because of the condor project.While completing condorera characterizations, EMs also had the priviledge of visiting other
remote locations, including Estancia La Lonja, Estancia El Condor, Estancia San Pedro
and Estancia Pilpilcura.
While travelling to and staying at these locations, EMs spotted lesser rhea (Rhea
pennata), red deer (Cervus elaphus), and guanacos (Lama guanicoe), all of which occupy
the same ecosystem. Also spotted were the Patagonian gray fox (Dusicyon griseus) and
the culpeo fox (Lycalopex culpaeus), and it was often possible to smell nearby hog-nosedskunks (Conepatus chinga). Several times EMs found puma (Puma concolor) tracks, and
some were lucky enough to spot a puma feeding cave with the remains of a recent meal.
(de Bolzn and Bolzn, 2005).
Other species spotted included the Patagonian green racer snake (Philodryas
patagoniensis), mountain viscacha (Lagidium viscacia), hairy armadillo (Chaetophractus
villosus), lesser grison (Galictis cuja), tuco tuco (Ctenomys magellanicus), great horned
owl (Bubo virginianus), long-tailed meadowlark (Sturnella loyca), ringed kingfisher (Ceryletorquata), Chilean flicker (Colaptes pitius), Chilean swallow (Tachycineta leucopyga), and,
at the lagoon, a coipu (Myocastor coypus). (de Bolzn and Bolzn, 2005).
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3.Parque Nacional Lann Projects
Parque Nacional Lann is situated in the Lakes District of Argentinean Patagonia,
bordering Chile. It is named after Volcn Lann which dominates the northern end of the
park and is the highest mountain in the area at 3776 m. The park is diverse and complex,encompassing four major environments: steppe; transition zone (between the forest and
the steppe); humid forest; and alpine environment. A significant portion of three unique
forest types endemic to the northern regions of temperate sub-Antarctic Argentina are
found within the park. These three forest types are characterised by two species of
southern beech, roble pelln (Nothofagus oblique) and raul (Nothofagus nervosa), as well
as the monkey puzzle or pehun tree (Araucaria araucana).
Figure 3-1. Volcn Lann and A. araucanabranches, Lann National Park
During this expedition GVI continued to work directly with the Lann park biologist, Javier
Sanguinetti, on a red deer control program. GVI also continued surveys of the distribution
and movements of wild boar with Hernn Pastore and surveys of austral parakeet
populations around Tromen with Soledad Diaz. During this expedition, a survey of
waterfowl populations on the lakes in the northern half of Lann park, a project overseen byProfessor Salvador Peris, was also completed.
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3.1. Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
3.1.1. Introduction
Red deer (ciervo colorado in Spanish) are an exotic species introduced to Argentina in
the 1920s for trophy hunting. They rapidly spread across the whole country and large
numbers of them can be found in most areas of Lann National Park. They put pressure on
the native, and very rare, huemul deer (Hippocamelus bisulcus) by competing for the same
food as well as for space (H.Pastore). Red deer also change the composition of the forest
understory with their destructive eating habits, making it impossible for some tree species
to reach mature stages and altering the habitat, which in turn affects other species living in
that habitat as well. In fire-damaged areas of the park the red deer are preventing
succession and forest regeneration because they eat the seedlings.
This expedition GVI worked with Javier Sanguinetti, the biologist of Lann National Park,
investigating the abundance and distribution of red deer in the Len Valley near Lago
Lolog (for map see [Appendix G]). This data will help to inform decisions about red deer
culling and hunting quotas. The request from J. Sanguinetti to go and investigate red deer
in this fire-damaged valley came as a result of park rangers spotting large herds of deer in
the area.
Before beginning these transects, the EMs were taught how to recognize deer faeces and
tracks, and to distinguish those from other animals in the area. They also learned how to
tell age and sex of deer.
3.1.2. Methodology
Initially, 12 transects were to be along the valley floor and 12 transects in the ire forest on
the hillside, with these numbers changing depending on initial findings of deer abundance.
This is an explanation of those transects completed.
Transects along the valley floor are 400 metres apart. As the valley floor is about four
kilometres long, 12 transects 400 metres apart would cover this area. The ire forest
covered a much smaller area, so transects set up there are 200 metres apart. Each
transect completed, regardless of location, is 400 metres long.
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In each transect there are 20 plots, one every twenty metres. At each plot a five metre
diameter circle is measured using trekking poles or marked string, and within the circle the
vegetation type and number of signs of deer are recorded. Signs documented include the
number of tracts and the number of pellet groups. A deer track is defined as a path ofdeer prints left by more than one animal following along the same line.
This same information is also recorded between plots (see example of data sheet below,
Figure 3-2).
Signs of live deer are also recorded. If deer are spotted, the GPS location, habitat, number
of animals, sex of animals and age of animals are noted.
Transec
t Plot
GPS
Latitude
GPS
Long.
Vegetatio
n type
# pellet
groups
Presence
of tracks
on the
way to
the plot
Presence
of tracks
within
plot
0
1
2
Figure 3-2. Example of data sheet for a red deer transect
3.1.3. Results
It was immediately obvious that there were large numbers of deer in the valley and that
they were active in both the valley floor and the burned forest. There was very little sign of
new growth in the forest, suggesting that the red deer are eating new seedlings and
preventing regeneration. Out of 136 plots completed in the steppe area (valley floor), signs
of deer were recorded within plots 51.5% of the time, and an average of 4.8 signs were
recorded between each plot. Out of the 117 plots completed in the burned ire forest area,
plots showed signs of deer 29.3% of the time and on average 8.1 signs of deer were found
between plots.
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3.1.4. Discussion
The results indicate extremely heavy red deer activity in the valley and heavy activity in the
ire forest. The information provided to J. Sanguinetti will be used to inform planning
decisions regarding the culling of deer in this valley.
This was an on the spot project for GVI, who responded immediately to a request from J.
Sanguinetti to investigate the numbers of deer in the Len Valley as a result of a recent
sighting by park rangers. Due to a difficulty in accessing the valley and rivers full from
spring snowmelt, only 13 transects were completed in the area. Six of these were carried
out in the ire forest on the hillside to the south of the valley. The other seven were
completed in the steppe area along the valley floor.
Such a remote and immediate project, which involved hiking through difficult terrain into a
remote valley before the trails had been cleared by the rangers, allowed EMs to improve
their skills with the GPS, taught them how to navigate over difficult terrain, and gave them
ample opportunity to improve their river-crossing skills. It also allowed them to see first
hand the results of a huge forest fire and they gained a better understanding of what
happens to the ecosystem following such an event.
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3.2. Wild Boar (Sus scrofa ferus)
3.2.1. Introduction
The wild boar (jabal in Spanish) is an introduced species to Argentina. As in other parts
of the world, it has efficiently established itself in Lann National Park, where its foraging
activities continue to cause significant impacts. Wild boars eat the seeds of the A.
araucana and their rooting habits are very destructive as they prevent seedling
establishment. This is a particular problem given the poorer volcanic soils of Lann
National Park.
GVI Patagonia continues work with Hernn Pastore, a biologist from the National
University of Comahue on the wild boar project, which is part of the A. araucana forest
ecosystem project with J. Sanguinetti. The data collected during this expedition
represents a milestone, for H. Pastore now has enough data to finish his thesis of how wild
boar use different habitats around Tromen. The study is accomplished by carrying out one
kilometre transects through various habitats, collecting data on the presence and size of
wild boar tracks and rooting areas, as well as the presence and number of wild boar
faeces.
The survey transects cover the following habitats:
1. Pure A. araucana
2. Secondary A. araucana
3. Open Forest
4. Humid forest
5. Marsh
6. Shrub land
7. Steppe
The aim of this study is to determine a) seasonal habitat use by wild boar, b) variations in
wild boar diet through out the year (determined by analysis of faeces), and c) group sizes
(determined using the data collected on rootings).
Previous results have shown that wild boar migrate in response to food availability
throughout the year.
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A map showing the transects near Tromen is given in [Appendix H]
3.2.2. MethodologyA GPS is used to find the start and end coordinates of each transect. EMs go to one end
of the transect and use the GPS to determine the bearing to the other end. They then pace
out plots of 100 metres, recording their position at the end of each 100 metre plot using the
GPS. Exceptions to this method occur when the transect does not follow a straight line: in
this case GPS points are used for each 100 metre plot.
EMs walk along the line of the transect looking at the ground for signs of wild boar in a
three metre wide band (1.5 metres to either side of the line). At the end of each 100 metreplot of the transect line, notes are taken of the location, altitude, slope, distance from
water, canopy cover, and general habitat type (see Figure 3-3 for data sheet). The same
details are recorded whenever signs of wild boar, including tracks, new faeces or new
rootings, are found along the transect line.
Figure 3-3. Example of plot recording for wild boar transect AP1
Plot/ Signs of Jabal:
(e.g.: 0-100; rooting, track,
faeces, etc.)
Track 8cm x 6cm, photo AP1 0-100Ai
Rooting 20m x 20m, photo AP1 0-100Aii
Location: (As given by the
GPS - use USR)
Altitude: (metres)
Slope: of the Land (ring the
relevant one)0-5 5-10 10-15 15-20 > 20
Canopy Cover: 0% 0-25% 25-50% 50-75% 75-100%
Distance from Water: (ifwithin 20 metres)
Local Habitat: (irantal,
Lengal, Araucaria etc)
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Deviations from the transect line occur if an obstacle is in the way or if a wild boar trail is
spotted close to the transect line. In the case of obstacles, the transect is continued
around the obstacle, ending up back on the correct bearing. In the case of spotting a wild
boar trail, the transect is continued along the trail for as long as the trail remains near the
transect line and on a similar bearing. When the wild boar trail leads away from thetransect line, EMs move back onto the original course.
Samples of all the faeces found along the transect are collected and dried for analysis of
diet.
Before completing transects, EMs are trained to recognise the vegetation types and to
identify tracks and signs of wild boar, deer, and livestock. They also continue to develop
skills in navigation, including use of GPS and route choices.
3.2.3. Results
Initial analysis of the results from the spring expedition shows that wild boars are using
lenga / ire woodland and steppe areas more than A. araucanawoodlands. This can be
seen in the chart below, which illustrates how many signs of wild boar activity were found
in each type of habitat
Percentage of wild boar signs
Spring, 2008
28%
15%
8%10%
38%
1%0%
Lenga
Estepa
A. araucana
Bush
Nire
Mallin
Bare
.
Figure 3-4. Habitat use by wild boar October November 2008
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3.2.4. Discussion
Previous results from GVI expeditions and H. Pastores work indicate that wild boar tend to
be seasonally migratory based on food availability. Wild boars move around to occupy
sites with more food, for example when A. araucana drop seeds the boars move to A.
araucanaforests to exploit this resource.
Data collected in previous expeditions showed that in 2006, use of A. araucanaforests by
wild boar was low, coinciding with low seed production that year (06 3, 2006). The A.
araucanaexperienced a masting year in 2007, which favoured wild boar reproduction as
there was an abundant food supply, so the population in 2008 was expected to be high.
The data from the summer 2008 expedition showed that there was much higher wild boar
activity in the A. araucana forests than in summer 2006 (08 1, 2008), which H. Pastore
links to the A. araucana mast; there would have been a high population of boar and an
abundant supply of seeds from the mast in 2007.
Seed production by A. araucanawas low in the summer of 2008, so H. Pastore expected
that wild boar would subsequently move to other habitats in search of food. The data
collected appears, on initial analysis, to confirm this: Figure 3-4 illustrates that out of seven
different types of environment studied, A. araucanaforests were fifth on the list in terms of
where signs of wild boar activity were found. 61% of all signs of wild boar activity were
found in forests of southern beech species (lenga and ire), far more than the 9% found inA. araucanaforests. The only environments which showed less wild boar activity than the
A. araucanaforests were the marshes and areas of bare rock, indicating that A. araucana
forests are indeed poor foraging grounds at the moment.
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3.3. Austral Parakeet (Enicognathus ferrugineus)
3.3.1. Introduction
The Austral parakeet (cachaa in Spanish) is the most southerly parakeet species in the
world. They can be found along the Patagonian Andes from Neuqun province to Tierra
del Fuego. Austral parakeets do not have as many conservation problems as other
psitacids; however they do face some, namely deforestation, the introduction of exotic
species and pet trade. The austral parakeet is currently listed in Appendix I by the
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES, 2008). Basic information about the breeding and ecology of these relatively
unstudied birds is important for the National Parks in order to protect the austral parakeet,
and also other cavity nesters in austral forests.
This expedition S. Diaz is collecting information on the birds habitat use and their pre-
breeding and feeding habits. The aim is to compare this information with that collected in
previous years in order to see if there is a link with A. araucanaseed production cycles. S.
Diaz is also interested to discover whether the preceding two dry years have affected the
parakeet population; the food supply has been far lower as a result of the lack of rain and
high temperatures, and it is suspected that the austral parakeets have not had an
adequate food supply.
It is known that austral parakeets are specialist feeders (S. Diaz personal communication).
Their habits include the following:
Spring and early summer: feeding on lenga flowers with high extraction rates of
protein rich pollen
Summer: feeding on lipid-rich seeds of lenga
Autumn: feeding on lipid-rich seeds of lenga, then moving onto A. araucanaseeds
Winter: feeding on mistletoe as well as other parasitic fungi
Austral parakeets lay three to seven eggs during December (though up to 11 eggs have
been recorded) and three to five chicks will fledge in late summer (around the beginning of
March). Both parents take care of the eggs and chicks through out the entire breeding
season (S. Diaz personal communication).
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They nest in tree cavities that either occur naturally or are abandoned magellanic
woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus) nests (see Figure 3-5). They re-use their nests
year after year, and there are some records of austral parakeets using cavities during the
winter. This means that it is important to continue observing the parakeets year-round in
order to fully understand their use of the available habitats (S. Diaz personalcommunication).
Figure 3-5. Austral parakeets pair in a nest hole, Lann National Park
3.3.2. Methodology
The austral parakeet studies are carried out in three different study areas, which are
chosen to cover three forest types:
Lenga forest reaching from the base of Volcn Lann to the road at the border
A. araucanaforest in the border area between Argentina and Chile
Mixed lenga and A. araucanaforest between the aforementioned forests
EMs carried out three different types of austral parakeet work this expedition:
3.3.2.1. Vegetation transects
The aim of these transects is to investigate austral parakeet diet and habitat use (see
[Appendix I] for data sheet). Three transects are carried out in each forest type, and each
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transect starts at a nest tree selected by S. Diaz. A transect is 144 metres long with twelve
one-metre squared plots at 12 metre intervals (see Figure 3-6). In each plot EMs look for
plant species known to be eaten by austral parakeets; they then record the number of
plants of each species (only including those plants that have stems originating within the
plot) and the percentage cover of each species.
Figure 3-6. Vegetation transects from an austral parakeet nest tree
3.3.2.2. Observations of austral parakeet behaviour
The aim of these observations is to find out how austral parakeets are using the threedifferent forest habitats; for example, where are they nesting, feeding, playing and resting
(See [Appendix J] for data sheet). This involved walking slowly along these vegetation
transect lines and recording sightings and behaviour of any austral parakeets spotted. If
austral parakeets are heard but not seen this is also recorded. The behavioural
observations continue 50 metres further on than the vegetation plots, thereby walking
approximately 200 metres from a nest tree through the forest. The same information
(sightings, hearings and behaviour) is also collected whilst walking randomly through
selected areas of forest.
3.3.2.3. Productivity studies on A. araucana
The aim of the A. araucanastudies is to determine the amount of pollen production this
year, in order to compare it with other years (see [Appendix K] for data sheet). In each
forest type, EMs complete cone counts on 15 male A. araucana trees. All visible male
transect
1m2 plot
continuation of transect line
for behaviour observation
nest tree
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cones on a tree are counted. If only a portion of the tree is visible, this fraction is recorded
along with the number of cones counted. (Originally, S.Diaz originally wanted to count
cones on female A. araucanatrees too, to look at seed production, but at the time of the
study the difference between this years cones and next years cones was not evident,
making it impossible to count the correct cones. Therefore no cone counts were carriedout on female trees).
Another assessment of productivity involves counting seeds under female trees. Four
transects are carried out under each female tree, one at each cardinal point, counting
numbers of predated seeds and unpredated seeds. Each transect is 20 metres long by
two metres wide, and is divided into four sections of five metres each (see Figure 3-7
below). The aim of these transects is to discover how many seeds have survived from the
previous year. This information will be compared to similar data collected in previousyears, thereby providing information about relative food availability for austral parakeets.
For each of the 20 selected male and female A. araucanain each study area, EMs record
the height and breadth of the tree. In addition, EMs measure the distance from the
selected A. araucana to the four nearest trees, and record the species and age of these
four nearest trees. Immature trees are not recorded, and are identified as immature if they
are lenga below five metres in height or A. araucanawithout cones).
Figure 3-7. Seed predation transects from female A. araucana trees
20m
2m
5m
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3.3.3. Results
The data collected by GVI volunteers to date shows a clear use of A. araucanaforests as
foraging habitat and the lenga forest as breeding habitat. This year it has been noted that
there are far fewer austral parakeets in all three forest types as compared to previous
years. S. Diaz suspects that this is because of the low levels of seed production by A.
araucanalast year, which means that there is now a low food supply for the parakeets.
3.3.4. Discussion
The data collected are useful for management purposes as they show a clear pattern of
local movements by the parakeets regarding habitat use, in particular A. araucanaforests.
The austral parakeet population is affected by the seed production cycles of the A.
araucana. S. Diaz suspects that the low levels of food availability last autumn will have anadverse affect on parakeet reproduction levels this spring.
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3.4. Waterfowl survey
3.4.1. Introduction
Professor Salvador Peris, of the Universidad de Salamanca, Spain, has a project in
Patagonia determining the impact of American mink (Musteal vison) on the abundance
and diversity of waterfowl populations. Mink are known to be in the lakes in the southern
part of Lann National Park, where they are thought to be affecting waterfowl numbers.
The waterfowl survey of the lakes in the northern part of the park is undertaken to
determine if mink have moved north within the park and, if so, whether or not they are
affecting numbers of waterfowl there.
3.4.2. Methodology
Over a seven day period, 25 waterfowl species (see [Appendix L] for data sheet) are
monitored in 13 lakes in the park, from the Tromen area northwards to Lago orquinco
(See [Appendix M] for map with results superimposed). EMs record the numbers of
observed waterfowl species and also record any signs of mink
.
Each lake has between one and four established monitoring points (depending on the size
and shape of the lake), and each monitoring point is surveyed for half an hour. All
waterfowl species present are counted, taking care not to count individuals more than
once. A diagram of the lake is drawn, indicating vegetation around the shore, and
information is collected regarding the height and extent of reeds, and the extent of grassy
areas around the lake. Weather conditions are also recorded.
The survey is carried out by three teams of EMs at different locations within the park, and
lakes are reached either on foot or by car.
3.4.3. Results
A total of 313 individuals of 25 species of waterfowl were observed during the survey. The
total number of birds observed at each lake is shown in the graph below (Figure 3-8). The
lakes are arranged in order, with the northern-most lakes at the left of the graph, moving
gradually south to the right of the graph. The trend line clearly shows that the numbers of
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waterfowl observed were higher in the northern part of the park than further south. No
signs of mink were found at any of the lakes surveyed.
Figure 3-8. Number of waterfowl individuals at lakes surveyed, Lann National Park
3.4.4. Discussion
It can be seen from the trend line that the numbers of waterfowl are higher in the northern
lakes than in lakes further to the south. This may be because the lakes further south are
nearer to the area where mink are found, and therefore populations in the southern part of
the park are weaker in general. The high number of birds seen at Lago anco may have
something to do with the fact that the lake is very close to human settlements and so food
availability could be higher here.
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4. References
Birdlife International, 2008. Vultur gryphus. 2008 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.www.iucnredlist.org. Retrieved on 28 November 2008.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. 2008.Appendices I, II, III, http://www.cites.org/eng/app/E-Jul01.pdf, 17. Retrieved on 28November 2008.
De Bolzn, M.L.P., Bolzn, N.D., 2005. Patagonia y Antrtica, Vida y Color, 1st edn.Neuhaus Industria Grfica, Buenos Aires.
De la Pea, M.R., Rumboll, M., 1998. Birds of Southern South America and Antarctica, 1stedn. Harper Collins Publisher, London.
GVI Patagonia Expedition Report 06 3. December 2006, pp 5-9, 15, 22.
GVI Patagonia Expedition Report 08 1. April 2008, pp 15-18.
GVI Patagonia Expedition Report 08 2. August 2008, pp 6-7.
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5. Appendices
Note: All Appendices have been modified to fit this page layout.
Appendix A. Condor Flapping Datasheet
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Appendix B. Fragua Grande Last Light Datasheet
(similar, but not exact, diagram used for Frague Grande condorera)
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Appendix C. Raptor Transects Diagram
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Appendix D. Raptor Transects and Point Counts Datasheet
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Appendix E. Bird Species
(Reference: de la Pea and Rumboll, 1998)
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Appendix F. Migratory Bird Census Datasheet
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Appendix G. Map showing Len Valley, Lago Lolog
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Appendix H. Location of Jabali Transects (Tromen area)
Note: This map does not include five transects found near Caa Plantada in the Valle
Magdalena area of the Park.
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Appendix I. Cachaa: Vegetation Transect Datasheet
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Appendix J. Cachaa: Diet and Habitat Use Datasheet
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Appendix K. Cachaa: A. araucana Datasheet
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Appendix L. Waterfowl Survey Datasheet
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Appendix M. Waterfowl Results
3035
78
36
38
58
21
172
46
LagoPulmari1
51
LagunaVerde0
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