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Characterization of upland habitat of the marbled murrelet in the Exxon Valdez oil spill area. Restoration project 93051b (forest service component). Exxon Valdez oil spill restoration project final report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:377344
This study documents ecological characteristics of areas in the Exxon Valdez oil spill area in southcentral Alaska with contrasting marbled murelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) detection levels. A total of 73 vegetation and 41 physical site variables were evaluated. Marbled murrelet activity level (number of detections) and the frequency of occupied behavior (behaviors indicative of nesting) increased with increasing area of coniferous forest. There was a positive relationship between activity level and the number of mossy platforms in trees. Significant correlations with an index of incoming solar radiation are interpreted as indicating a preference of marbled murrelets for sites sheltered from high winds and severe cold during the nesting period.
Research Organization:
Forest Service, Anchorage, AK (United States)
OSTI ID:
377344
Report Number(s):
PB--96-194931/XAB
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English