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Austen A Lorenz (Former Employee)

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Shadowy figure of birds flying through golden dusk lit cloudy sky

Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

How do changing conditions in the terminal lakes of the Great Basin effect the migratory birds that depend on them? USGS scientists investigate bird movement and habitat use to find out.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC), Saline Lake Ecosystems Integrated Water Availability Assessment
Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

How do changing conditions in the terminal lakes of the Great Basin effect the migratory birds that depend on them? USGS scientists investigate bird movement and habitat use to find out.
Learn More
A logo for AIMS for Wildlife

AIMS for Wildlife

We are building a 21st century wildlife monitoring system to inform resource management of the impacts of drought, wildfire, land use, climate change, and other landscape level stressors. The Automated Interactive Monitoring System (AIMS) for Wildlife will provide an actionable data stream by combining enormous quantities of wildlife movement data with environmental data and delivering it to...
By
Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
AIMS for Wildlife

AIMS for Wildlife

We are building a 21st century wildlife monitoring system to inform resource management of the impacts of drought, wildfire, land use, climate change, and other landscape level stressors. The Automated Interactive Monitoring System (AIMS) for Wildlife will provide an actionable data stream by combining enormous quantities of wildlife movement data with environmental data and delivering it to...
Learn More
Hands hold up brown goose wearing a brown GPS collar

Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

USGS scientists and partners are studying how growing goose populations in the California Central Valley wintering areas are affecting ducks and other waterfowl.
By
Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

USGS scientists and partners are studying how growing goose populations in the California Central Valley wintering areas are affecting ducks and other waterfowl.
Learn More
Mallard drake taking flight

Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh provides critical habitat for wintering and breeding waterbirds in California. USGS WERC collaborates with the California Department of Water Resources to examine trends in bird declines and to assess the habitat factors driving long-term survival of waterfowl, rails, and other birds in this important area.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh provides critical habitat for wintering and breeding waterbirds in California. USGS WERC collaborates with the California Department of Water Resources to examine trends in bird declines and to assess the habitat factors driving long-term survival of waterfowl, rails, and other birds in this important area.
Learn More
Photo of waterbirds feeding at a flooded agricultural field.

Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

In the Central Valley of California, the few remaining wetlands plus cropland that is flooded after harvest provide critical habitat for wetland-dependent species. However future climate conditions and a growing human population will challenge how they are managed. To support coordinated conservation, wetland restoration, and climate adaptation planning, we partnered with Point Blue Conservation...
By
Western Geographic Science Center
Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

In the Central Valley of California, the few remaining wetlands plus cropland that is flooded after harvest provide critical habitat for wetland-dependent species. However future climate conditions and a growing human population will challenge how they are managed. To support coordinated conservation, wetland restoration, and climate adaptation planning, we partnered with Point Blue Conservation...
Learn More
Photo of a hen pintail with a GPS transmitter.

Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

The Suisun Marsh and Central Valley in California offer some of the world’s most important wetland habitats for waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. Mike Casazza and USGS WERC biologists are providing the science to support and evaluate waterfowl populations and habitat management in North America.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

The Suisun Marsh and Central Valley in California offer some of the world’s most important wetland habitats for waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. Mike Casazza and USGS WERC biologists are providing the science to support and evaluate waterfowl populations and habitat management in North America.
Learn More
Photo of waterbirds feeding at a flooded agricultural field.

Dixon Field Station

WERC scientists at the Dixon Field Station conduct studies from the San Francisco Bay-Delta in California to the Great Basin spanning California and Nevada.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Dixon Field Station

Dixon Field Station

WERC scientists at the Dixon Field Station conduct studies from the San Francisco Bay-Delta in California to the Great Basin spanning California and Nevada.
Learn More

Long-term Trends in Spring and Summer-flooded Wetland area in Suisun Marsh, California Long-term Trends in Spring and Summer-flooded Wetland area in Suisun Marsh, California

We digitized water on the landscape for breeding waterfowl and other wetland-associated species within Suisun Marsh (California, USA) twice each year (spring and summer) during a 38-year period (1984-2021) with remote sensing methods that combined Landsat satellite imagery (composite images) and spectral mixture analysis using Google Earth Engine. This dataset contains the amount of...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Data supporting work to understand the impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose movement ecology Data supporting work to understand the impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose movement ecology

These data describe the prevalence of infection with and antibodies to clade 2.3.4.4b HP H5N1 in Snow Geese in the Central Valley of California, along with corresponding movement data. These data show differential outcomes of HPAI infection in this species.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center

Timing of Occurrence of Waterfowl in U.S. Counties and Canadian Counties, Boroughs, Census Districts, and Other Populated Area Designations with Modeled Exposure Status to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus in 2021-2022 Timing of Occurrence of Waterfowl in U.S. Counties and Canadian Counties, Boroughs, Census Districts, and Other Populated Area Designations with Modeled Exposure Status to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus in 2021-2022

This data provides county level occurrence information for all individuals used in modelling potential exposure and spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAIv) from the 2021-2022 North American outbreak. The data set contains individual identifiers and taxa information, an indicator of exposure, exposure status (Susceptible, Exposed by HPAIv detection in the county, or Exposed by...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Data describing habitat use and availability for wild waterfowl in California, USA Data describing habitat use and availability for wild waterfowl in California, USA

These data describe the overlap of wild waterfowl and domestic poultry operations in California, USA. These data support a paired USGS publication.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl GPS Observations in North America from 2015 to 2023 for Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Waterfowl GPS Observations in North America from 2015 to 2023 for Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

To effectively manage species and habitats at multiple scales, land managers require rapid information on wildlife use of managed areas and responses to landscape conditions and management actions. Global positioning system (GPS) tracking studies of wildlife are particularly informative to species ecology, habitat use, and conservation. Combining GPS data with administrative data, would...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl Disturbance in California and Nevada (2018) Waterfowl Disturbance in California and Nevada (2018)

Long-term environmental management to prevent waterfowl population declines is informed by ecology, movement behavior and habitat use patterns. Extrinsic factors such as human-induced disturbance can cause behavioral changes which may influence movement, and resource needs, driving variation that affects management efficacy. To better understand the relationship between human-based...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Locations of Pacific Flyway Ducks in and near Commercial Livestock Facilities of the Western USA (2015-2021) Locations of Pacific Flyway Ducks in and near Commercial Livestock Facilities of the Western USA (2015-2021)

Zoonotic diseases are of considerable concern to the human population and viruses such as avian influenza (AIV) threaten food security, wildlife conservation and human health. Wild waterfowl and the natural wetlands they use, are known AIV reservoirs, with birds capable of virus transmission to domestic poultry populations. While infection risk models have linked migration routes and AIV...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Habitat Structure Maps for the California Central Valley 2013-2017 Habitat Structure Maps for the California Central Valley 2013-2017

We produced a time series of maps of habitat structure within wetlands of the Central Valley of California. The structure of open water and tall emergent vegetation, such as Typha spp. and Schoenoplectus spp., is critical for migratory birds. Through field observation and digitization of high resolution imagery we identified the locations of tall emergent vegetation, water, and other...
By
Western Geographic Science Center

Wetland Moist Soil Seed Maps for the Central Valley of California 2007-2017 Wetland Moist Soil Seed Maps for the Central Valley of California 2007-2017

We produced a series of maps of moist soil seed plants within managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California from 2007-2011 & 2013-2017. Moist soil seed plants, such as swamp timothy (Crypsis schoenoides) and watergrass (Echinochloa crusgallim), are a critical food source for migratory birds. Vegetation maps were created by classifying Landsat imagery from 2007-2011 and 2013-2017...
By
Western Geographic Science Center
AIMS map
Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway
Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway
AIMS map

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Each dot is a GPS location collected between 2015-2023.

By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
AIMS map

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Each dot is a GPS location collected between 2015-2023.

By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020
Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Fall migration routes for tule geese in 2019 (five geese) and 2020 (four geese) through arrival at Summer Lake Wildlife Area, Oregon. This area experienced massive wildfires in 2020 which resulted in aberrant migration behavior, increased energetic demands, and increased mortality risk.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Fall migration routes for tule geese in 2019 (five geese) and 2020 (four geese) through arrival at Summer Lake Wildlife Area, Oregon. This area experienced massive wildfires in 2020 which resulted in aberrant migration behavior, increased energetic demands, and increased mortality risk.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Filter Total Items: 13

Potential impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) movement ecology Potential impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) movement ecology

While wild waterfowl are known reservoirs of avian influenza viruses and facilitate the movement of these viruses, there are notable differences in the response to infection across species. This study explored differential responses to infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza in Snow Geese (Anser caerulescens) located in the California Central Valley. Though H5 antibody...
Authors
Jeffery Sullivan, Michael Casazza, Rebecca L. Poulson, Elliott Matchett, Cory Overton, Mike Carpenter, Austen Lorenz, Fiona McDuie, Michael Derico, Elizabeth Howerth, David E. Stallknecht, Diann Prosser
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC), Eastern Ecological Science Center

Mitigating risk: Predicting H5N1 avian influenza spread with an empirical model of bird movement Mitigating risk: Predicting H5N1 avian influenza spread with an empirical model of bird movement

Understanding timing and distribution of virus spread is critical to global commercial and wildlife biosecurity management. A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIv) global panzootic, affecting ~600 bird and mammal species globally and over 83 million birds across North America (Dec 2023), poses a serious global threat to animals and public health. We combined a large, long-term...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Cory Overton, Austen Lorenz, Elliott Matchett, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Vijay Patil, Diann Prosser, John Y. Takekawa, Dennis Orthmeyer, Maurice Pitesky, Samuel Diaz-Munoz, Brock Riggs, Joseph Gendreau, Eric Reed, Mark Petrie, Chris Williams, Jeffrey Buler, Matthew J. Hardy, Brian Ladman, Pierre Legagneux, Joel Bety, Philippe Thomas, Jean Rodrigue, Josee Lefebvre, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Potential use of poultry farms by wild waterfowl in California's Central Valley varies across space, times of day, and species: implications for influenza transmission risk Potential use of poultry farms by wild waterfowl in California's Central Valley varies across space, times of day, and species: implications for influenza transmission risk

Interactions between wildlife and livestock can lead to cross-species disease transmission, which incurs economic costs and threatens wildlife conservation. Wild waterfowl are natural hosts of avian influenza viruses (AIVs), are often abundant near poultry farms, and have been linked to outbreaks of AIVs in poultry. Interspecific and seasonal variation in waterfowl movement and habitat...
Authors
Claire S. Teitelbaum, Michael Casazza, Cory Overton, Jeffery Sullivan, Elliott Matchett, Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Diann Prosser
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center

AIMS for wildlife: Developing an automated interactive monitoring system to integrate real-time movement and environmental data for true adaptive management AIMS for wildlife: Developing an automated interactive monitoring system to integrate real-time movement and environmental data for true adaptive management

To effectively manage species and habitats at multiple scales, population and land managers require rapid information on wildlife use of managed areas and responses to landscape conditions and management actions. GPS tracking studies of wildlife are particularly informative to species ecology, habitat use, and conservation. Combining GPS data with administrative data and a diverse suite...
Authors
Michael Casazza, Austen Lorenz, Cory Overton, Elliott L. Matchett, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Fiona McDuie
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Changes in habitat suitability for wintering dabbling ducks during dry conditions in the Central Valley of California Changes in habitat suitability for wintering dabbling ducks during dry conditions in the Central Valley of California

In arid and Mediterranean regions, landscape-scale wetland conservation requires understanding how wildlife responds to dynamic freshwater availability and conservation actions to enhance wetland habitat. Taking advantage of Landsat satellite data and structured and community science bird survey data, we built species distribution models to describe how three duck species, the Northern...
Authors
Erin Conlisk, Kristin Byrd, Elliott Matchett, Austen Lorenz, Michael Casazza, Gregory Golet, Mark Reynolds, Kristin Sesser, Matthew Reiter
By
Western Geographic Science Center

Machine learned daily life history classification using low frequency tracking data and automated modelling pipelines: Application to North American waterfowl Machine learned daily life history classification using low frequency tracking data and automated modelling pipelines: Application to North American waterfowl

Background Identifying animal behaviors, life history states, and movement patterns is a prerequisite for many animal behavior analyses and effective management of wildlife and habitats. Most approaches classify short-term movement patterns with high frequency location or accelerometry data. However, patterns reflecting life history across longer time scales can have greater relevance to...
Authors
Cory Overton, Michael Casazza, Joseph Bretz, Fiona McDuie, Elliott Matchett, Desmond Mackell, Austen Lorenz, Andrea Mott, Mark Herzog, Josh Ackerman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Pathways for avian influenza virus spread: GPS reveals wild waterfowl in commercial livestock facilities and connectivity with the natural wetland landscape Pathways for avian influenza virus spread: GPS reveals wild waterfowl in commercial livestock facilities and connectivity with the natural wetland landscape

Zoonotic diseases are of considerable concern to the human population and viruses such as avian influenza (AIV) threaten food security, wildlife conservation and human health. Wild waterfowl and the natural wetlands they use are known AIV reservoirs, with birds capable of virus transmission to domestic poultry populations. While infection risk models have linked migration routes and AIV...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Elliott Matchett, Diann Prosser, John Y. Takekawa, Maurice Pitesky, Austen Lorenz, Madeline McCuen, Cory Overton, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Megafires and thick smoke portend big problems for migratory birds Megafires and thick smoke portend big problems for migratory birds

In 2020, the fire season affecting the western United States reached unprecedented levels. The 116 fires active in September consumed nearly 20,822 km2 (https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/accessible-view/ Accessed 2020-09-29) with eighty percent of this footprint (16,567 km2) from 68 fires occurring within California, Oregon, and Washington. Although the 2020 fire season was the most extreme on...
Authors
Cory Overton, Austen Lorenz, Eric P. James, Ravan Ahmadov, John Eadie, Fiona McDuie, Mark Petrie, Chris Nicolai, Melanie Weaver, Daniel A. Skalos, Shannon Skalos, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Anna Kennedy, Elliott Matchett, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Informing wetland management with waterfowl movement and sanctuary use responses to human-induced disturbance Informing wetland management with waterfowl movement and sanctuary use responses to human-induced disturbance

Long-term environmental management to prevent waterfowl population declines is informed by ecology, movement behavior and habitat use patterns. Extrinsic factors, such as human-induced disturbance, can cause behavioral changes which may influence movement and resource needs, driving variation that affects management efficacy. To better understand the relationship between human-based...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, Robert Klinger, Cory Overton, Cliff Feldheim, Josh Ackerman, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl use of wetland habitats informs wetland restoration designs for multi‐species benefits Waterfowl use of wetland habitats informs wetland restoration designs for multi‐species benefits

Extensive global estuarine wetland losses have prompted intensive focus on restoration of these habitats. In California, substantial tracts of freshwater, brackish and tidal wetlands have been lost. Given the anthropogenic footprint of development and urbanization in this region, wetland restoration must rely on conversion of existing habitat types rather than adding new wetlands. These
Authors
Michael Casazza, Fiona McDuie, Scott Jones, Austen Lorenz, Cory Overton, Julie Yee, Cliff Feldheim, Josh Ackerman, Karen M. Thorne
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Quantifying drought’s influence on moist soil seed vegetation in California’s Central Valley through remote sensing Quantifying drought’s influence on moist soil seed vegetation in California’s Central Valley through remote sensing

Across the Central Valley of California, millions of wintering waterfowl rely on moist soil seed (MSS) plants that grow in managed seasonal wetlands as a critical source of food. Estimates of MSS plant production are used to set waterfowl habitat targets yet this information is not well known. We created the first Central Valley-wide time series maps of MSS plant distributions and...
Authors
Kristin Byrd, Austen Lorenz, James Anderson, Cynthia Wallace, Kara Moore-O'Leary, Jennifer Isola, Ricardo Ortega, Matt Reiter
By
Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center , Western Geographic Science Center

Good prospects: High-resolution telemetry data suggests novel brood-site selection behavior in waterfowl Good prospects: High-resolution telemetry data suggests novel brood-site selection behavior in waterfowl

Breeding success should increase with prior knowledge of the surrounding environment, which is dependent upon an animal’s ability to evaluate habitat. Prospecting for nesting locations and migratory stop-over sites are well-established behaviors among bird species. We assessed whether ducks in Suisun Marsh, California, USA, a brackish marsh, prospect for suitable wetlands in the week...
Authors
Michael Casazza, Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, David Keiter, Julie Yee, Cory Overton, Sarah Peterson, Cliff Feldheim, Joshua T. Ackerman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge 1.0.0 Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge 1.0.0

The Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge provides an approach for summarizing wildlife GPS data and creates tables, maps, and visualizations. Specifically, the Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, creates an interactive HTML report document that lets users interact with maps of waterfowl locations and filter and sort...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Science and Products

Shadowy figure of birds flying through golden dusk lit cloudy sky

Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

How do changing conditions in the terminal lakes of the Great Basin effect the migratory birds that depend on them? USGS scientists investigate bird movement and habitat use to find out.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC), Saline Lake Ecosystems Integrated Water Availability Assessment
Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

Waterbird Ecology and Movement in the Terminal Lakes Across the Great Basin

How do changing conditions in the terminal lakes of the Great Basin effect the migratory birds that depend on them? USGS scientists investigate bird movement and habitat use to find out.
Learn More
A logo for AIMS for Wildlife

AIMS for Wildlife

We are building a 21st century wildlife monitoring system to inform resource management of the impacts of drought, wildfire, land use, climate change, and other landscape level stressors. The Automated Interactive Monitoring System (AIMS) for Wildlife will provide an actionable data stream by combining enormous quantities of wildlife movement data with environmental data and delivering it to...
By
Land Management Research Program, Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
AIMS for Wildlife

AIMS for Wildlife

We are building a 21st century wildlife monitoring system to inform resource management of the impacts of drought, wildfire, land use, climate change, and other landscape level stressors. The Automated Interactive Monitoring System (AIMS) for Wildlife will provide an actionable data stream by combining enormous quantities of wildlife movement data with environmental data and delivering it to...
Learn More
Hands hold up brown goose wearing a brown GPS collar

Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

USGS scientists and partners are studying how growing goose populations in the California Central Valley wintering areas are affecting ducks and other waterfowl.
By
Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

Goose Population Dynamics in the California Central Valley and Pacific Flyway

USGS scientists and partners are studying how growing goose populations in the California Central Valley wintering areas are affecting ducks and other waterfowl.
Learn More
Mallard drake taking flight

Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh provides critical habitat for wintering and breeding waterbirds in California. USGS WERC collaborates with the California Department of Water Resources to examine trends in bird declines and to assess the habitat factors driving long-term survival of waterfowl, rails, and other birds in this important area.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh Waterfowl and Wildlife Studies

Suisun Marsh provides critical habitat for wintering and breeding waterbirds in California. USGS WERC collaborates with the California Department of Water Resources to examine trends in bird declines and to assess the habitat factors driving long-term survival of waterfowl, rails, and other birds in this important area.
Learn More
Photo of waterbirds feeding at a flooded agricultural field.

Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

In the Central Valley of California, the few remaining wetlands plus cropland that is flooded after harvest provide critical habitat for wetland-dependent species. However future climate conditions and a growing human population will challenge how they are managed. To support coordinated conservation, wetland restoration, and climate adaptation planning, we partnered with Point Blue Conservation...
By
Western Geographic Science Center
Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

Integrating Remote-Sensing and Ecological Forecasting into Decision-Support for Wetland Wildlife Management in the Central Valley of California

In the Central Valley of California, the few remaining wetlands plus cropland that is flooded after harvest provide critical habitat for wetland-dependent species. However future climate conditions and a growing human population will challenge how they are managed. To support coordinated conservation, wetland restoration, and climate adaptation planning, we partnered with Point Blue Conservation...
Learn More
Photo of a hen pintail with a GPS transmitter.

Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

The Suisun Marsh and Central Valley in California offer some of the world’s most important wetland habitats for waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. Mike Casazza and USGS WERC biologists are providing the science to support and evaluate waterfowl populations and habitat management in North America.
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Species Management Research Program, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

Waterfowl Ecology in California and the Pacific Flyway

The Suisun Marsh and Central Valley in California offer some of the world’s most important wetland habitats for waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. Mike Casazza and USGS WERC biologists are providing the science to support and evaluate waterfowl populations and habitat management in North America.
Learn More
Photo of waterbirds feeding at a flooded agricultural field.

Dixon Field Station

WERC scientists at the Dixon Field Station conduct studies from the San Francisco Bay-Delta in California to the Great Basin spanning California and Nevada.
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Dixon Field Station

Dixon Field Station

WERC scientists at the Dixon Field Station conduct studies from the San Francisco Bay-Delta in California to the Great Basin spanning California and Nevada.
Learn More

Long-term Trends in Spring and Summer-flooded Wetland area in Suisun Marsh, California Long-term Trends in Spring and Summer-flooded Wetland area in Suisun Marsh, California

We digitized water on the landscape for breeding waterfowl and other wetland-associated species within Suisun Marsh (California, USA) twice each year (spring and summer) during a 38-year period (1984-2021) with remote sensing methods that combined Landsat satellite imagery (composite images) and spectral mixture analysis using Google Earth Engine. This dataset contains the amount of...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Data supporting work to understand the impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose movement ecology Data supporting work to understand the impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose movement ecology

These data describe the prevalence of infection with and antibodies to clade 2.3.4.4b HP H5N1 in Snow Geese in the Central Valley of California, along with corresponding movement data. These data show differential outcomes of HPAI infection in this species.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center

Timing of Occurrence of Waterfowl in U.S. Counties and Canadian Counties, Boroughs, Census Districts, and Other Populated Area Designations with Modeled Exposure Status to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus in 2021-2022 Timing of Occurrence of Waterfowl in U.S. Counties and Canadian Counties, Boroughs, Census Districts, and Other Populated Area Designations with Modeled Exposure Status to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus in 2021-2022

This data provides county level occurrence information for all individuals used in modelling potential exposure and spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAIv) from the 2021-2022 North American outbreak. The data set contains individual identifiers and taxa information, an indicator of exposure, exposure status (Susceptible, Exposed by HPAIv detection in the county, or Exposed by...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Data describing habitat use and availability for wild waterfowl in California, USA Data describing habitat use and availability for wild waterfowl in California, USA

These data describe the overlap of wild waterfowl and domestic poultry operations in California, USA. These data support a paired USGS publication.
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl GPS Observations in North America from 2015 to 2023 for Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Waterfowl GPS Observations in North America from 2015 to 2023 for Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge

To effectively manage species and habitats at multiple scales, land managers require rapid information on wildlife use of managed areas and responses to landscape conditions and management actions. Global positioning system (GPS) tracking studies of wildlife are particularly informative to species ecology, habitat use, and conservation. Combining GPS data with administrative data, would...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl Disturbance in California and Nevada (2018) Waterfowl Disturbance in California and Nevada (2018)

Long-term environmental management to prevent waterfowl population declines is informed by ecology, movement behavior and habitat use patterns. Extrinsic factors such as human-induced disturbance can cause behavioral changes which may influence movement, and resource needs, driving variation that affects management efficacy. To better understand the relationship between human-based...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Locations of Pacific Flyway Ducks in and near Commercial Livestock Facilities of the Western USA (2015-2021) Locations of Pacific Flyway Ducks in and near Commercial Livestock Facilities of the Western USA (2015-2021)

Zoonotic diseases are of considerable concern to the human population and viruses such as avian influenza (AIV) threaten food security, wildlife conservation and human health. Wild waterfowl and the natural wetlands they use, are known AIV reservoirs, with birds capable of virus transmission to domestic poultry populations. While infection risk models have linked migration routes and AIV...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Habitat Structure Maps for the California Central Valley 2013-2017 Habitat Structure Maps for the California Central Valley 2013-2017

We produced a time series of maps of habitat structure within wetlands of the Central Valley of California. The structure of open water and tall emergent vegetation, such as Typha spp. and Schoenoplectus spp., is critical for migratory birds. Through field observation and digitization of high resolution imagery we identified the locations of tall emergent vegetation, water, and other...
By
Western Geographic Science Center

Wetland Moist Soil Seed Maps for the Central Valley of California 2007-2017 Wetland Moist Soil Seed Maps for the Central Valley of California 2007-2017

We produced a series of maps of moist soil seed plants within managed wetlands in the Central Valley of California from 2007-2011 & 2013-2017. Moist soil seed plants, such as swamp timothy (Crypsis schoenoides) and watergrass (Echinochloa crusgallim), are a critical food source for migratory birds. Vegetation maps were created by classifying Landsat imagery from 2007-2011 and 2013-2017...
By
Western Geographic Science Center
AIMS map
Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway
Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway
AIMS map

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Each dot is a GPS location collected between 2015-2023.

By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
AIMS map

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Distribution of GPS-marked birds that visited the Pacific Flyway

Each dot is a GPS location collected between 2015-2023.

By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020
Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Fall migration routes for tule geese in 2019 (five geese) and 2020 (four geese) through arrival at Summer Lake Wildlife Area, Oregon. This area experienced massive wildfires in 2020 which resulted in aberrant migration behavior, increased energetic demands, and increased mortality risk.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Map showing migration routes superimposed on a wildfire smoke map, with dense smoke covering the northwestern states
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020
Maximum smoke extent and migratory paths of tule geese, 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Tule Goose Migration Tracks, 2019 and 2020

Fall migration routes for tule geese in 2019 (five geese) and 2020 (four geese) through arrival at Summer Lake Wildlife Area, Oregon. This area experienced massive wildfires in 2020 which resulted in aberrant migration behavior, increased energetic demands, and increased mortality risk.

By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
Filter Total Items: 13

Potential impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) movement ecology Potential impacts of 2.3.4.4b highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus infection on Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens) movement ecology

While wild waterfowl are known reservoirs of avian influenza viruses and facilitate the movement of these viruses, there are notable differences in the response to infection across species. This study explored differential responses to infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza in Snow Geese (Anser caerulescens) located in the California Central Valley. Though H5 antibody...
Authors
Jeffery Sullivan, Michael Casazza, Rebecca L. Poulson, Elliott Matchett, Cory Overton, Mike Carpenter, Austen Lorenz, Fiona McDuie, Michael Derico, Elizabeth Howerth, David E. Stallknecht, Diann Prosser
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC), Eastern Ecological Science Center

Mitigating risk: Predicting H5N1 avian influenza spread with an empirical model of bird movement Mitigating risk: Predicting H5N1 avian influenza spread with an empirical model of bird movement

Understanding timing and distribution of virus spread is critical to global commercial and wildlife biosecurity management. A highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIv) global panzootic, affecting ~600 bird and mammal species globally and over 83 million birds across North America (Dec 2023), poses a serious global threat to animals and public health. We combined a large, long-term...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Cory Overton, Austen Lorenz, Elliott Matchett, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Vijay Patil, Diann Prosser, John Y. Takekawa, Dennis Orthmeyer, Maurice Pitesky, Samuel Diaz-Munoz, Brock Riggs, Joseph Gendreau, Eric Reed, Mark Petrie, Chris Williams, Jeffrey Buler, Matthew J. Hardy, Brian Ladman, Pierre Legagneux, Joel Bety, Philippe Thomas, Jean Rodrigue, Josee Lefebvre, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Potential use of poultry farms by wild waterfowl in California's Central Valley varies across space, times of day, and species: implications for influenza transmission risk Potential use of poultry farms by wild waterfowl in California's Central Valley varies across space, times of day, and species: implications for influenza transmission risk

Interactions between wildlife and livestock can lead to cross-species disease transmission, which incurs economic costs and threatens wildlife conservation. Wild waterfowl are natural hosts of avian influenza viruses (AIVs), are often abundant near poultry farms, and have been linked to outbreaks of AIVs in poultry. Interspecific and seasonal variation in waterfowl movement and habitat...
Authors
Claire S. Teitelbaum, Michael Casazza, Cory Overton, Jeffery Sullivan, Elliott Matchett, Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Diann Prosser
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center

AIMS for wildlife: Developing an automated interactive monitoring system to integrate real-time movement and environmental data for true adaptive management AIMS for wildlife: Developing an automated interactive monitoring system to integrate real-time movement and environmental data for true adaptive management

To effectively manage species and habitats at multiple scales, population and land managers require rapid information on wildlife use of managed areas and responses to landscape conditions and management actions. GPS tracking studies of wildlife are particularly informative to species ecology, habitat use, and conservation. Combining GPS data with administrative data and a diverse suite...
Authors
Michael Casazza, Austen Lorenz, Cory Overton, Elliott L. Matchett, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Fiona McDuie
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Changes in habitat suitability for wintering dabbling ducks during dry conditions in the Central Valley of California Changes in habitat suitability for wintering dabbling ducks during dry conditions in the Central Valley of California

In arid and Mediterranean regions, landscape-scale wetland conservation requires understanding how wildlife responds to dynamic freshwater availability and conservation actions to enhance wetland habitat. Taking advantage of Landsat satellite data and structured and community science bird survey data, we built species distribution models to describe how three duck species, the Northern...
Authors
Erin Conlisk, Kristin Byrd, Elliott Matchett, Austen Lorenz, Michael Casazza, Gregory Golet, Mark Reynolds, Kristin Sesser, Matthew Reiter
By
Western Geographic Science Center

Machine learned daily life history classification using low frequency tracking data and automated modelling pipelines: Application to North American waterfowl Machine learned daily life history classification using low frequency tracking data and automated modelling pipelines: Application to North American waterfowl

Background Identifying animal behaviors, life history states, and movement patterns is a prerequisite for many animal behavior analyses and effective management of wildlife and habitats. Most approaches classify short-term movement patterns with high frequency location or accelerometry data. However, patterns reflecting life history across longer time scales can have greater relevance to...
Authors
Cory Overton, Michael Casazza, Joseph Bretz, Fiona McDuie, Elliott Matchett, Desmond Mackell, Austen Lorenz, Andrea Mott, Mark Herzog, Josh Ackerman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Pathways for avian influenza virus spread: GPS reveals wild waterfowl in commercial livestock facilities and connectivity with the natural wetland landscape Pathways for avian influenza virus spread: GPS reveals wild waterfowl in commercial livestock facilities and connectivity with the natural wetland landscape

Zoonotic diseases are of considerable concern to the human population and viruses such as avian influenza (AIV) threaten food security, wildlife conservation and human health. Wild waterfowl and the natural wetlands they use are known AIV reservoirs, with birds capable of virus transmission to domestic poultry populations. While infection risk models have linked migration routes and AIV...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Elliott Matchett, Diann Prosser, John Y. Takekawa, Maurice Pitesky, Austen Lorenz, Madeline McCuen, Cory Overton, Josh Ackerman, Susan De La Cruz, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Megafires and thick smoke portend big problems for migratory birds Megafires and thick smoke portend big problems for migratory birds

In 2020, the fire season affecting the western United States reached unprecedented levels. The 116 fires active in September consumed nearly 20,822 km2 (https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/accessible-view/ Accessed 2020-09-29) with eighty percent of this footprint (16,567 km2) from 68 fires occurring within California, Oregon, and Washington. Although the 2020 fire season was the most extreme on...
Authors
Cory Overton, Austen Lorenz, Eric P. James, Ravan Ahmadov, John Eadie, Fiona McDuie, Mark Petrie, Chris Nicolai, Melanie Weaver, Daniel A. Skalos, Shannon Skalos, Andrea Mott, Desmond Mackell, Anna Kennedy, Elliott Matchett, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Informing wetland management with waterfowl movement and sanctuary use responses to human-induced disturbance Informing wetland management with waterfowl movement and sanctuary use responses to human-induced disturbance

Long-term environmental management to prevent waterfowl population declines is informed by ecology, movement behavior and habitat use patterns. Extrinsic factors, such as human-induced disturbance, can cause behavioral changes which may influence movement and resource needs, driving variation that affects management efficacy. To better understand the relationship between human-based...
Authors
Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, Robert Klinger, Cory Overton, Cliff Feldheim, Josh Ackerman, Michael Casazza
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Waterfowl use of wetland habitats informs wetland restoration designs for multi‐species benefits Waterfowl use of wetland habitats informs wetland restoration designs for multi‐species benefits

Extensive global estuarine wetland losses have prompted intensive focus on restoration of these habitats. In California, substantial tracts of freshwater, brackish and tidal wetlands have been lost. Given the anthropogenic footprint of development and urbanization in this region, wetland restoration must rely on conversion of existing habitat types rather than adding new wetlands. These
Authors
Michael Casazza, Fiona McDuie, Scott Jones, Austen Lorenz, Cory Overton, Julie Yee, Cliff Feldheim, Josh Ackerman, Karen M. Thorne
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Quantifying drought’s influence on moist soil seed vegetation in California’s Central Valley through remote sensing Quantifying drought’s influence on moist soil seed vegetation in California’s Central Valley through remote sensing

Across the Central Valley of California, millions of wintering waterfowl rely on moist soil seed (MSS) plants that grow in managed seasonal wetlands as a critical source of food. Estimates of MSS plant production are used to set waterfowl habitat targets yet this information is not well known. We created the first Central Valley-wide time series maps of MSS plant distributions and...
Authors
Kristin Byrd, Austen Lorenz, James Anderson, Cynthia Wallace, Kara Moore-O'Leary, Jennifer Isola, Ricardo Ortega, Matt Reiter
By
Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center , Western Geographic Science Center

Good prospects: High-resolution telemetry data suggests novel brood-site selection behavior in waterfowl Good prospects: High-resolution telemetry data suggests novel brood-site selection behavior in waterfowl

Breeding success should increase with prior knowledge of the surrounding environment, which is dependent upon an animal’s ability to evaluate habitat. Prospecting for nesting locations and migratory stop-over sites are well-established behaviors among bird species. We assessed whether ducks in Suisun Marsh, California, USA, a brackish marsh, prospect for suitable wetlands in the week...
Authors
Michael Casazza, Fiona McDuie, Austen Lorenz, David Keiter, Julie Yee, Cory Overton, Sarah Peterson, Cliff Feldheim, Joshua T. Ackerman
By
Ecosystems Mission Area, Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)

Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge 1.0.0 Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge 1.0.0

The Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge provides an approach for summarizing wildlife GPS data and creates tables, maps, and visualizations. Specifically, the Custom Wildlife Report Example for Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, creates an interactive HTML report document that lets users interact with maps of waterfowl locations and filter and sort...
By
Western Ecological Research Center (WERC)
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