Taylor Shimabukuro Thesis Proposal, Monday, May 9, 2022 at 9:00am

Waterbird reproductive success is determined, in part, by the composition and arrangement of ground cover types, such as open water, vegetation, and mudflats, which provide resources to meet the needs of nesting adults and foraging chicks. As a result, the recovery of endangered waterbirds is partially dependent on managing hydrology and vegetation to optimize habitat for reproductive success. Until now, challenges in monitoring these highly dynamic wetland environments hindered our ability to determine relationships between waterbird habitat use and reproductive success. Recent advances in affordable technology now allow us to assess variability in ground cover at multiple temporal and spatial scales. In this study I will apply these novel technologies to evaluate habitat use and reproductive success in three endangered waterbirds, ‘Alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian Coot; Fulica alai), ‘Alae ‘Ula (Hawaiian Gallinule; Gallinula galeata sandvicensis), and Ae‘o (Hawaiian Stilt; Himantopus mexicanus knudseni) at Hāmākua Marsh State Wildlife Sanctuary on the island of O‘ahu. I will: (1) compare proportional ground cover used for nesting amongst the three species; (2) evaluate nest-site selection for each species; and (2) determine habitat use of two species of chicks, Ae‘o and ‘Alae ‘ula. The results of this study will guide managers regarding how ground cover can be managed for reproductive success.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87027109814

Meeting ID: 870 2710 9814

Passcode: 764828