|
Latest updates from UC Davis ecology, population health, and genetics research
Summary of the Recommendations Document from the Yellow-billed Magpie Working Group, February 2006
Large numbers of Yellow-billed Magpies died from West Nile Virus in years following 2004.
- These numbers likely represent the tip of the iceberg; many more magpies died that were not reported.
- Pathology study of Yellow-billed Magpies infected with WNV indicates rapid severe onset of disease leading to fatality.
- Survivorship of Yellow-billed Magpies exposed to WNV though unknown, is likely to be low.
- Population size of the Yellow-billed Magpie is unknown.
- Yellow-billed Magpies are highly social and inter-dependent birds with colonial roosting and sometimes colonial nesting. A loss of key individuals might precipitate decline of entire colonies.
- The species distribution of Yellow-billed Magpies is effectively an island, most of which is WNV mosquito vector habitat.
- The Yellow-billed Magpie is unique and may have keystone species qualities.
- The Yellow-billed Magpie is one of few California
endemic bird species.
- It is an important and unique member of California's
natural heritage, and prized by many Californians' for their striking
appearance.
- Over 250 central Californians have emailed to www.magpiemonitor.org to report their observations and concern about magpie declines.
For all these reasons, we need your help to answer questions and monitor this species.
Learn how you can help Yellow-billed Magpie research and conservation efforts through the Magpie Monitor Program.
|
