Digital Commons Network^™

Current Status Of Plague And Plague Control In The United States, Jack D. Poland, Allan M. Barnes

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

During the first quarter of the 20th century massive rat-borne plague epidemics occurred in port cities of the United States in conjunction with the last world-wide pandemic which originated in China in 1893. By 1950, plague was found to be firmly established in wild rodent populations in states west of the 100th meridian. Presumably because of improved sanitation coupled with retreat of the world-wide pandemic there have been no human cases in this country associated with urban rats since 1924. However, sporadic cases, fewer than 10 per year, are reported as due to contact with wild rodents, lagomorphs, rural rats, …

The Rat In Hawaiian Sugarcane, Glenn A. Hood, Roger D. Nass, Gerald D. Lindsey

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Heavy losses In Hawaiian sugarcane are caused by Polynesian rats (Rattus exulans), Norway rats (R. norveglcus), and black rats (R. rattus). Relative population levels, movement patterns, damage to sugarcane, and suggested timing of control during five stages of the 2-year crop cycle are described. The progress toward the registering of zinc phosphide for use in crops and the development of other rodenticides are mentioned.

Rodent Control In The Hawaiian Sugar Industry, Allen H. Teshima

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Past and present concepts of rodent control at the 24 sugar plantations of Hawaii are reviewed with particular attention being given to the research efforts of the Experiment Station of the Hawaiian Sugar Planters' Association in improving operational rodent control in sugarcane. Hawaii offers a unique set of conditions: a 2-year crop cycle, a production of over 100 tons of sugarcane per acre, countless numbers of gulches and wasteland bordering crop fields, and a year-long growing season, all having an effect on rat population and habitat.

Vampire Bat Control: A Review And Proposed Research Programme For Latin America, Arthur M. Greenhall

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

In Latin America paralytic rabies transmitted by vampire bats is a major cause of death in cattle. This problem becomes more acute as countries attempt to increase livestock production to feed rapidly expanding human populations. Vaccination has been the principal weapon against rabies, however this offers no protection to domestic animals and poultry against daily predation of vampire bats. Established methods of vampire bat control, though limited, have proved effective and should be continued while more effective methods are being developed and tested. Existing methods are discussed in some detail. Of the approximately 200 kinds of bats found in Latin …

New Factors Controlling Populations Of Land Vertebrates In Great Britain, N. W. Moore

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

The vertebrate fauna of Britain is impoverished by nature. Further, virtually the whole land surface has been altered radically by Man, and all vertebrate species have been profoundly affected both unconsciously and consciously by Man. The rate of change during the last quarter of a century has been far greater than at any other time; new deleterious factors - increased habitat destruction, increased human pressure and motor traffic, myxomatosis and a vast increase in pesticide use have coincided in this period. The public's attitude to several common species (e.g., rabbit, woodpigeon, fox and birds of prey) has been equivocal and …

Importance Of Wildlife Rabies Control, Richard L. Parker

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

ABSTRACT: Rabies in animals has been known in North America for over two centuries, and whether the disease was initially present in wild species or was introduced by dogs, it has been known in skunks for almost a century and a half. Today more rabies cases in wild animals are reported than in domestic animals, and a considerable proportion of both human and domestic animal exposures to the disease are the result of wild-animal contact. The most useful techniques for controlling wild animal rabies today are methods that reduce contact between infected individuals and susceptible individuals; these involve the manipulation …

Chemosterilants As An Approach To Rodent Control, Rex E. Marsh, Walter E. Howard

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Capitalizing on research directed toward oral contraceptives for humans, a wide variety of compounds are now under study for their practical value in inhibiting rodent reproduction to suppress detrimental populations. This paper discusses the specifications of ideal rodent chemosterilants and the advantages of chemosterilants over other methods of control, and compares the potential values of chemosterilants acting on females, males, and both sexes. Specific situations are detailed where chemosterilants will be most valuable in rodent control, together with proposed methods of application. Chemosterilants are not expected to become a panacea for control, but since they are based on sound biological …

Olfaction In Rodent Control, Walter E. Howard, Rex E. Marsh

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

A brief survey is presented of current knowledge on olfaction in rodents and the various roles that odors may play in modifying rodent behavior. Some species at least utilize olfactory cues: to locate food items; to recognize their mother and mates; to mark territory; as an involuntary population density regulator; possibly to recognize predators; as a warning cue against a repellent or toxic substance (poison-bait shyness); and probably, for many other behavioral purposes. The value of using artificial odors in rodent baits to increase bait acceptance is not yet well documented. The addition of attractive natural odors may increase detection …

Mole Control, Lee W. Kuhn

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

ABSTRACT: Four kinds of moles are found in the Pacific coast states but only the Townsend mole (Scapanus townsendii) in Washington and Oregon and the broad-handed mole (Scapanus latimanus) in California are considered economically important. Damage in agricultural areas is caused by mole mounds and burrow systems which reduce pasture production, make harvesting difficult by breaking or plugging machinery, contaminate hay and silage thus, retarding proper curing, contribute to soil erosion and make ready-made homes for invading meadow mice, pocket gophers, and other rodent pests. Moles also damage lawns, gardens, flower beds and occasionally eat or destroy valuable seeds and …

Destruction Of Conifer Seed And Methods Of Protection, M. A. Radwan

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

ABSTRACT: Agents responsible for tosses of conifer seed and methods for seed protection are reviewed. Published information indicates that much seed is destroyed, especially by seed-eating rodents and birds. Improvement of existing protective methods and development of new chemical means are necessary to overcome the problem.

Studies In Microencapsulation Of Rodenticides, P. B. Cornwell

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Warfarin, zinc phosphide, norbormide and alphachloralose have been microencapsulated by the technique of coacervation and fed to laboratory rats (R. norvegicus) and mice (M. musculus). Results are given of experiments in which the concentration of rodenticide, wall material and phase ratio have been varied separately and in combination. Experiments are also reported in which normal and encapsulated rodenticide has been fed together in the same test diet.

Trapping - The Oldest Profession, William D. Fitzwater

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

While trapping is probably the oldest pursuit of man, predating hunting and agriculture, it has not undergone many drastic changes since the first primitive attempts. An arbitrary classification of traps [improvised traps, snares-and nets, cage traps, spring traps and glues] is discussed and examples of each group given. As the behavioral and physical characteristics of vertebrate animals vary so much, it is impossible to discuss trapping procedures in any detail, but certain principles apply to most situations. These are: (1) need for an understanding of the target species' habit patterns, (2) selection of a trap size and design suitable for …

Methods Of Controlling Jackrabbits, James Evans, Paul L. Hegdal, Richard E. Griffith Jr.

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Since 1963, biologists of the Denver Wildlife Research Center have been investigating methods of alleviating agricultural damage by the black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus). Of the several approaches to control, most biological methods (predation, habitat manipulation, disease and parasites, and chemosterilants) appear impractical with present knowledge. Mechanical control except for fence barriers, usually has limited effectiveness. Currently, the most useful approach is still chemical control. Improved baiting techniques and several chemical control agents, including an experimental toxicant highly selective for jackrabbits, are described.

Pocket Gopher Problems And Control Practices On National Forest Lands In The Pacific Northwest Region, Paul R. Canutt

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Pocket gophers of concern to foresters in the Pacific Northwest belong to the genus Thomomys (13). The two species believed responsible for most conifer damage are the northern pocket gopher (T. talpoides) which occurs east of the Cascade mountains in Washington, Oregon, and south into the northeastern edge of California and the nearly identical Mazama pocket gopher (j_. mazama), which ranges throughout western Oregon and into north central California (13). Pocket gopher damage is best known to agriculturalists who for many years have suffered losses to root, hay, fruit, and bulb crops, as well as damage to irrigation canals (23). …

Control Of Freshwater Fish With Chemicals, Robert E. Lennon

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Fish toxicants have been used for nearly 60 years by sport fishery managers to remove predaceous or competing fishes from gamefish waters. The reclamation of lakes and streams by poisoning unwanted fish is considered to be one of the better management tools, and the demand for reclamations is increasing as more waters come under intensive management. Many chemicals have been tried as fish toxicants, but the insecticides rotenone and toxaphene have been most widely used despite their disadvantages of non-selectivity between wanted and unwanted fishes, persistence in water, and toxic effects on aquatic invertebrates. Research in the past 20 years …

Standardization Of Procedures For Developing Vertebrate Control Agents, Nelson B. Kverno

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

In research to develop methods for controlling damage by vertebrates, chemical evaluation procedures vary with every investigator, so that data cannot be meaningfully compared. Toxicology is one common area where standardization is both applicable and desirable. It is recommended that standard guidelines be developed through an international body recognized by the members of the discipline.

Rodent Control Problems In Developing Countries, Robert Z. Brown

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

None of the so-called developing countries has an adequate rodent control program at present. In only a few of these countries is any rodent control research occurring despite the fact that rodent problems are actually quite serious in many regions and potentially so in others. Expertise, techniques and materials from the developed countries are of limited usefulness because of major differences in rodent species involved, standards for food handling and sanitation, and in the cultural contexts in which rodent control must occur. Trained personnel, both for control work and the basic research needed, are in very short supply. In addition, …

The Outlook For Vertebrate Pest Control, Howard A. Merrill

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Because of the increased concern for the environment and the public's positive action toward preservation of all forms of plant and animal life, future control methods for pest animals will require a greater degree of specificity than in the past. Vertebrate pest control does not face a very promising future unless the independent and cooperative effort of both industry and government is expanded. The time has passed when one could use a chemical simply because it was a good poison or repellent. Now, especially when food or feed crops are involved, it is necessary to know a lot more about …

Reproduction Inhibitors For Bird Control, M. R. Woulfe

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Reproduction inhibitors are intended to maintain or control a population at a desired level; toxicants aim at elimination of the population. Azocosterol hydrochloride (SC-12937; 20,25-diazocholestenol dihydrochloride) is a long acting inhibitor of ovulation in the pigeon (Columba liyia) by interfering with cholesterol synthesis and egg yolk formation. Corn impregnated with SC-12937 at the 0.1% level by weight and fed for 10 days has been found to inhibit or diminish reproduction for 5-6 months. Population turnover rate, mortality and longevity of the feral urban pigeon are also discussed.

Importation Of Wildlife, Holger S. Larsen

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

The importation of live birds, mammals, reptiles, fish and amphibians into the United States is a growing problem to law enforcement agencies of the Federal and State governments. Importation of the above types of animals into the United States is supervised by the Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife, of the U. S. Department of the Interior. The function is of a regulatory nature: 1. to insure that no prohibited species enter the United States; 2. to enforce compliance with certain Federal Acts such as (a) the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, (b) the Lacey Act, Title 18 USC, Sec. 42, …

Current Work On Bird Hazards To Aircraft, Victor E. F. Solman

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Collisions between birds and aircraft have caused loss of human life and millions of dollars worth of property damage. The advent of even larger planes may reduce airframe damage, but it seems doubtful that engine damage will be significantly reduced. Dealing with the problem biologically, involves combating the hazards caused both by birds on or near the ground at airfields, and by birds on mass migrations at altitudes up to several thousand feet above ground. Airports can be designed or altered to minimize their attraction to birds. The chance arrival of a flock of birds must be treated as an …

The Organisation Of Rabbit Control (Oryctolagus Cuniculus) In Western Australia, A. R. Tomlinson, C. D. Gooding

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

ABSTRACT: Under Western Australian legislation, landholders have an obligation to control rabbits on their properties; local authorities the responsibility to supervise their work whilst the Agriculture Protection Board has a Statewide supervisory and co-ordination role. Prior to 1950 (when the Agriculture Protection Board was formed) the central role was in the hands of a Government department which, through lack of staff and money was unable to provide adequate supervision, and rabbits were in plague proportions. Since 1950, the Board has actively engaged in a vigorous policy aimed at tighter control and supervision. To enable this, the Board has entered into …

Rodenticides - Problems And Current Research, F. P. Rowe, J. H. Greaves, R. Redfern, A. D. Martin

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

Regarded from both the economic and health aspects, the control of rodents is a pressing world wide problem. Continued improvements in food storage facilities, crop husbandry and environmental control are likely to do much in the long-term to help reduce rodent populations and damage. Looking ahead again, it is possible that biological control methods involving for example the use of reproduction inhibitors or rodent predators or diseases may ultimately be developed for rodent control purposes. In the immediate future however it is likely that rodent control operations will continue to be based on the use of rodenticides.

Some Wildflowers Of Western Australia, C. F. H. Jenkins, A. S. George

Bulletins - 3000 - 3999

MUCH recent discussion on conservation has centred around the importance of wild flower reserves and the need for protecting one of thci State's most important tourist attractions. Although less important to visitors than the flowers, many of our wild animals hold equal interest for nature lovers and scientists, and they also need protection.

ALTHOUGH the brilliance and diversity of West Australian wildflowers are widely appreci­ated, the localities where they can best be observed in their natural state are not so well known.

In this article a brief outline is given of the more important districts in the south western part …

Algal Growth And Decomposition: Effects On Water Quality, Edward G. Foree, John S. Tapp Jr.

KWRRI Research Reports

The chemical composition of algae grown in batch culture depends mainly on environmental conditions, nutrient availability, presence of predators, cell age, and species. The effects of nutrient availability and cell age on the composition of three unialgal cultures (algae + bacteria) and one hetergeneous culture (algae + bacteria + microscopic animals) were evaluated. The cultures were grown in batch culture under both nutrient-abundant and nutrient deficient conditions and the changes in compositions were observed. Luxurious uptake where nutrients are incorporated into cellular protoplasm at levels greater than those necessary for growth, and super-luxurious uptake, where some nutrients are stored rather …

A Permanent Type Poison Station For Porcupine Control, William A. Neitro

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

A method has been devised to protect the poison strychnine-salt blocks used in controlling porcupines, Erethizon dorsatum, from the weather, killing of non-target animals and vandalism. An aluminum poison bait station has been developed which is light weight, durable, camouflaged, and safe. These structures are easily constructed and are relatively inexpensive when longevity is considered. Porcupines are controlled effectively and economically using this method

Conference Participants -- 4th Vertebrate Pest Conference,

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

The Fourth Vertebrate Pest Conference was the largest ever, with 275 registered participants and an estimated additional 50 to 75 persons who attended portions of the conference but did not register. The attendance was made up of individuals having varying interests in vertebrate pest problems, including foresters, agriculturalists, conservationists, pest control operators, vector control specialists, health officials, wildlife specialists, product distributors and manufacturers, instructors and researchers from twenty nine states plus the District of Columbia. Participants from Canada, England, Germany and Japan provided an international touch which contributed greatly to the success of the conference.

Water Resources News, Volume 2, No. 3, March 1970

Water Current Newsletter

NWRRI Announces Approval of Matching Grant Proposals
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 - Landmark Achievement
Chairman of Environmental Quality Council Named by Nixon
River System Engineering - Summer Short Course
Plan to Eliminate Thermal Pollution - Result in Navigation Channels?
Executive Director Appointed to Water Resources Council
Ecologic Aspects of Weather Modification
Ash Commission Reports on Civil Works Functions of the Corps
Hail Suppresion, Next Major Thrust of Weather Modification Research Program
USDA to Fight Water and Soil Pollution from Animal Wastes
Major Clean-Up Proposals Made by Nixon
NSF to Redirect Its Efforts
USGS to Lead Research in Underground …

The Prairie Naturalist Volume 2, No. 1. March, 1970

The Prairie Naturalist

EDITORIAL: Speaking of Ecologists ▪ Paul B. Kannowski

NEEDED: AN ETHICAL BASIS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ▪ Gordon L. Iseminger

THE POPULATION PARADOX ▪ Gary L. Pearson

THE ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS—A CALL TO ACTION ▪ Glen A. Sherwood

NORTH DAKOTA—1970 ▪ Philip B. Aus

Closing Remarks - Fourth Vertebrate Pest Conference, Rex E. Marsh

Vertebrate Pest Conference Proceedings: 4th (1970)

On behalf of the California Vertebrate Pest Committee, which sponsors these conferences, I wish to thank all of the speakers for their contribution to the program and the session chairmen who kept the meeting moving so smoothly. We would like to extend a special thanks to the speakers and participants who have come from other countries to share with us some of their knowledge concerning vertebrate pest problems and their solutions. Hopefully, the acquaintances made here and the exchange of information with our colleagues from distant places will be the beginning of long-lasting friendships and will foster better communications between …