AUTHORS: Janet Silbernagel*, University of Wisconsin-Madison
ABSTRACT: Cranes and other waterbirds, some of our most iconic species of concern, often have specialized roosting and foraging habitat requirements related to dynamics of water depth, food availability, and local aquacultural practices, which present unique challenges to map and model. These presentations feature studies that capture the spatial dynamics of waterbird habitat for conservation. We will hear of studies in the US and Asia that involve mapping wetland habitats and change, modeling hydrological alterations, surveying local fishers, and engaging Earthwatch volunteers in crane habitat sampling. To begin, I present an example of waterbird habitat modeling through our work at Caohai Lake in southwestern China to examine habitat changes on black-necked crane habitat. Our study quantified available roosting and foraging habitat for cranes, land cover changes between 2007 and 2017, and the possible impact of a lake level increase. This research shows the importance of continued monitoring of landscape transformation and its effects on vulnerable species such as the black-necked crane. We also predict that a lake level increase would have detrimental impacts on crane habitat at Caohai, an important finding for conservation decision-making. Following the Caohai example, I will introduce the remaining speakers and talks, providing a brief context for the organization of this symposium.