Species at Risk at the Hullett P.W.A

Species at Risk are designated as Extinct, Extirpated, Endangered, Threatened, Special Concern, Not at Risk and Data Deficient, by conservation agencies in the country.

COSEWIC - the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada and COSSARO - the Committee of the Status of Species at Risk in Ontario, designate species at risk in each category on the federal and provincial levels respectively.

Each category represents a risk level were species are in trouble due to numerous reasons such as: habitat loss, contamination, deforestation, draining of wetlands, urban development, etc...

Extinction means that a species no longer exists anywhere in the world. An 'Extirpated' species means the animal/plant is no longer found in an area, i.e. Ontario or Canada, but is found elsewhere. Basically it's the local extinction of a species. An 'Endangered' species is categorized by the species facing imminent extinction or extirpation. A 'Threatened' species is at risk of being endangered, and one of 'Special Concern' is sensitive to human activity and natural events (making it vulnerable).

Some species are 'Not at Risk' and others are classed as 'Data Deficient' as we just don't know for sure as these species have not been assessed at all.

Of Species at Risk, about 24 can be found at Hullett or in the surrounding area. Twelve are birds, three trees/plants, three are fish, five reptiles, and two are insect species. Hullett has habitat that does occur in areas for kilometers away and this is why these species are able to find a home here. Many are affected by habitat loss and efforts such as those taking place here at the Hullett P.W.A by the Friends of Hullett are making homes for these species to live. These species are the 'litmus paper' of our environment's health - they are key indicators. Species at Risk at Hullett (with their designations) include:

Endangered - American Ginseng, Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Prothonotary Warbler, Henslow's Sparrow, Butternut, and Pugnose Shiner. (8)

Threatened - Least Bittern, Black Redhorse, Roadside Dace, Eastern Hognose Snake, and Queen Snake. (5)

Special Concern - Green Dragon, Black Tern, Short-eared Owl, Red-headed Woodpecker, Yellow-breasted Chat, Cerulean Warbler, Red-shouldered Hawk, Eastern Milk Snake, Eastern Ribbon Snake, Monarch, and West Virginia White. (11)

SAR Etiquette - It is imperative to be responsible to others who come after, so they will be able to enjoy the area as well. It is important to stay on the trail as excessive traffic flattens plants, compacts the soil and makes it difficult for plants to absorb moisture. Disturbing a habitat promotes invasive species which is detrimental to the entire area. Do not pick, or dig wildflowers or plants, take a picture or make a sketch!

Species at Risk should be treated with respect. The welfare of the species should come first. Use the trails and keep disturbances to a minimum. Do not feel an obligation to report Species At Risk to anyone. We appreciate the knowledge of presence and wherabouts of species at risk at Hullett, (fohoffice@tcc.on.ca), but it isn't required to report these at all. Remember to have consideration for other naturalists who come after you. Let's work together on this.

Species Account - Week #1 - Hullett's DRAGONS!