Geology topics

Corinna A. Pinzari

Publications and source records attributed to Corinna A. Pinzari.

13 recordsLinked to original sources

USGS2023

Seasonal and elevational differences by sex in capture rate of ʻōpeʻapeʻa (Lasiurus semotus) on Hawai‘i Island

The study of nocturnally active bats is difficult even for those species that seasonally congregate. This challenge is particularly acute for ‘ōpe‘ape‘a (Hawaiian hoary bat; Lasiurus semotus ) because of its solitary foliage-roosting behavior. Yet surveys are essential for conservation and management of this endangered species and only land mammal endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. We surveyed for ‘ōpe‘ape‘a at 23 sites and a range of elevations (33–2,341 m) on Hawai‘i Island from May 2018 to August 2021. We captured 138 unique bats (37 female, 101 male) over 224 mist-netting events. We averaged 16 net-hours per bat capture, with peak captures 30–90 min after sunset. We marked all captured individuals in this study with identifying forearm bands and recaptures represented 7% of total captures (10 of 148). We developed generalized linear mixed models to examine the relationship of nightly bat captures by sex to elevation and time-of-year while accounting for variable sampling effort and repeated sampling in this study. Both males and females were captured at low and high elevations with peak capture rates occurring at approximately 930 m. The capture rate for females was highest during the reproductive season (May to September), whereas it was highest for males during the non-reproductive season (October to April). This study informs future fieldwork with a description of ‘ōpe‘ape‘a capture on Hawai‘i Island by sex, elevation, time-of-year and time-of-night, radio transmitter retention, and recapture frequency.

Hawai‘i↗

USGS2021

Hawaiian hoary bat acoustic surveys on Marine Corps Base Hawaii, 2019–2021

The endangered Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus semotus, Vespertilionidae, also known as Aeorestes semotus and ‘ōpe‘ape‘a) occurs on all the principal volcanic islands in Hawai‘i. Advances in acoustic bat monitoring techniques have contributed to the body of knowledge of bat activity and behavior in many areas of the State of Hawai‘i; however, there is still much that is unknown about the population and seasonal distribution of Hawaiian hoary bats on O‘ahu. A two-year acoustic survey for presence of Hawaiian hoary bats was conducted at 17 stations across four Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) properties on O‘ahu to document distribution, seasonal patterns, and foraging activity. Bats were confirmed present at all properties; MCBH Kaneohe Bay on Mōkapu Peninsula, Marine Corps Training Area Bellows (MCTAB) in Waimanalo, Camp H M Smith in Halawa Heights, and Puuloa Range Training Facility (RTF) on the ‘Ewa coastal plain. Hawaiian hoary bats were recorded in airspace at all four properties during important periods of Hawaiian hoary bat life history, including periods of pregnancy, lactation, and pup fledging; however, overall presence was low. Foraging activity as identified from characteristic feeding buzzes was very rare and was recorded on only three nights over the entire study. Within-night bat detection pooled for all nights and stations at each property showed that bat activity was mostly confined to the first several hours of the night at MCBH Kaneohe Bay and Puuloa RTF, whereas bat activity was spread throughout the night at Camp H M Smith and MCTAB. Overall, detection frequency was low (year 1 = 0.009, year 2 = 0.007, average = 0.008) at the study sites on O‘ahu compared to results from acoustic monitoring studies on the islands of Maui and Hawai‘i. However, the low rate of bat presence on MCBH properties is consistent with recent studies at other locations on the Island of O‘ahu. Monitoring the seasonal presence and distribution of Hawaiian hoary bats on MCBH facilities, especially at forest and wetland habitats, could contribute to the broader scientific understanding of islandwide distribution and behavior on O‘ahu, which is essential for species recovery planning and implementation of best management practices.

Hawaii↗

USGS2020

Analysis of genomic sequence data reveals the origin and evolutionary separation of Hawaiian hoary bat populations

We examine the genetic history and population status of Hawaiian hoary bats ( Lasiurus semotus ), the most isolated bats on Earth, and their relationship to northern hoary bats ( Lasiurus cinereus ), through whole-genome analysis of single-nucleotide polymorphisms mapped to a de novo-assembled reference genome. Profiles of genomic diversity and divergence indicate that Hawaiian hoary bats are distinct from northern hoary bats, and form a monophyletic group, indicating a single ancestral colonization event 1.34 Ma, followed by substantial divergence between islands beginning 0.51 Ma. Phylogenetic analysis indicates Maui is central to the radiation across the archipelago, with the southward expansion to Hawai‘i and westward to O‘ahu and Kaua‘i. Because this endangered species is of conservation concern, a clearer understanding of the population genetic structure of this bat in the Hawaiian Islands is of timely importance.

Hawaii↗

USGS2019

Screening and biosecurity for White-nose Fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Ascomycota: Pseudeurotiaceae) in Hawai‘i

Introduced pathogens causing emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are serious contemporary threats to animal, plant, and ecosystem health. The invasive fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans , has established populations of European origin in North America, resulting in mass mortality of several hibernating bat species. Extensive monitoring for this pathogen exists in Europe and North America, but limited screening is taking place elsewhere. We report results from cave surveys on Hawai‘i Island. Substrates in 10 lava-tube caves with elevations up to 3,045 m were swabbed providing samples for screening P. destructans . Interior cave air temperatures spanned temperatures suitable for the growth and survival of P. destructans . Using quantitative PCR, all 85 samples tested were negative for the presence of P. destructans . The biology of the Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus cinereus semotus ) in relation to its unusual use of high elevation caves is discussed because these bats could come into contact with P. destructans should it arrive in Hawai‘i. Large numbers of cave enthusiasts visit Hawaiian caves from across the world after having been inside caves elsewhere including areas with P. destructans . Thus, resource managers in Hawai‘i and other remote areas may want to consider the potential for P. destructans to arrive unintentionally via human activities. Biosecurity measures and periodic screening for P. destructans are especially important in Hawai‘i given the presence of high elevation caves with suitable temperatures for its growth. If P. destructans was introduced to Hawaiian caves, it could affect the local fauna but also act as a source population for colonisations elsewhere.

Hawaii↗

USGS2019

Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) activity and prey availability at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

We examined habitat use and foraging activity of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus), as well as nocturnal aerial insect abundance at Kaloko-Honōkohau National Historical Park located in the coastal region of Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i Island. We evaluated bat activity in two habitat types, wooded shorelines beside brackish water fishponds and xeric lava fields dominated by two invasive plant species: white leadwood (Leucaena leucocephala, Fabaceae), and fountain grass (Cenchrus setaceus, Poaceae). We recorded bat echolocation calls at seven acoustic stations that operated nightly from November 2013 through February 2015. Additionally, three UV light traps were used to collect insects at three locations from dusk to dawn in January, April, July and November 2014. Bat acoustic activity showed seasonal patterns in pulse counts, call-events, feeding buzzes and frequency of occurrence with three major peaks in bat echolocation activity in November–December 2013, April–May 2014, and August–December 2014. Overall, bat acoustic activity was greatest at the shoreline of Kaloko Fishpond. Although there were no significant differences in insect biomass among collection stations, Hawaiian hoary bats use the Park as an important foraging habitat.

Hawaii↗

USGS2019

Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) activity, diet and prey availability at the Waihou Mitigation Area, Maui

Habitat use, diet, prey availability, and foraging ecology of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus, Vespertilionidae), was examined in the east Maui region inclusive of the Waihou Mitigation Area, Pu‘u Makua Restoration Area and the wind energy facility operated by Auwahi Wind Energy, LLC. The study was conducted to inform the mitigation and management requirements of Auwahi Wind Energy. Acoustic monitoring over the three-year period demonstrated that bats are present and actively forage year-round at the Waihou Mitigation Area. Over an 8-month span, 11 bats were uniquely color-banded and released, 3 of which were pregnant or lactating females, and highlights the importance of the area to breeding residents. Our study included the first genetic analysis of Hawaiian hoary bat diet, and confirms the inclusion of Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, and Blattodea among the prey items of this bat identified in previous microscopy-based studies. Hawaiian hoary bats consumed both native and non-native insect species, including several invasive species damaging to crop agriculture. Moths were the primary dietary component, both in prevalence among individual bats and the proportion of gene sequence counts. Through genetic analysis, we identified 18 Lepidoptera families (dominated by Noctuidae, Geometridae, Crambidae, Oecophoridae and Tortricidae) including 24 genus- or species-level taxa. Lepidoptera collected as caterpillars directly from vegetation did not appear in the diet of the 8 bat guano samples at the genus or species level. However, the occurrence of moth larva on native plants suggests that reforestation that includes host plants for these insect families may provide food for locally foraging bats.

Hawaii↗

USGS2019

Hawaiian hoary bat acoustic monitoring on U.S. Army O`ahu facilities

Acoustic sampling for occurrence of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus cinereus semotus ) was conducted at 12 locations on U. S. Army installations on O‘ahu Island, Hawai‘i. Bats were confirmed as present at 10 of these locations: Dillingham Military Reservation, Helemano Military Reservation, Kahuku Training Area, Kawailoa Training Area, Mākua Military Reservation, Schofield Barracks East Range, Schofield Barracks West Range, Schofield Barracks (Mendonca Park Housing), Tripler Army Medical Center, and Wheeler Army Airfield. Our acoustic sampling did not record bat vocalizations at Fort DeRussy or Fort Shafter. Despite the presence of bats at the above 10 locations, foraging activity as identified from characteristic feeding buzzes was observed only at East Range and West Range of Schofield Barracks. Nevertheless, Hawaiian hoary bats were recorded actively searching for prey in airspace at 10 of the 12 areas during important periods of Hawaiian hoary bat life history, including periods of pregnancy, lactation, and pup fledging. Within-night bat activity pooled for all nights and detectors at each location showed bat activity was mostly confined to the first several hours of the night. This acoustic study detected bats at lower rates of occurrence (frequency of detection [“f”] = 0.07) compared to detection probabilities (“dp”) observed on the islands of Hawai‘i (dp = 0.56) and Maui (dp = 0.27), implying either behavioral differences or that they occur at lower densities on O‘ahu. The rate is also consistent with results from two previous acoustic studies conducted on O‘ahu; a year long monitoring study in the northern Ko‘olau Mountains in 2014 (dp = 0.08), and short-term seasonal Army monitoring efforts in 2012 (dp = 0.05 to 0.06).

Hawaii↗

USGS2018

Multi-state occupancy models of foraging habitat use by the Hawaiian hoary bat Lasiurus cinereus semotus

Multi-state occupancy modeling can often improve assessments of habitat use and site quality when animal activity or behavior data are available. We examine the use of the approach for evaluating foraging habitat suitability of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus cinereus semotus ) from classifications of site occupancy based on flight activity levels and feeding behavior. In addition, we used data from separate visual and auditory sources, namely thermal videography and acoustic (echolocation) detectors, jointly deployed at sample sites to compare the effectiveness of each method in the context of occupancy modeling. Video-derived observations demonstrated higher and more accurate estimates of the prevalence of high bat flight activity and feeding events than acoustic sampling methods. Elevated levels of acoustic activity by Hawaiian hoary bats were found to be related primarily to beetle biomass in this study. The approach may have a variety of applications in bat research, including inference about species-resource relationships, habitat quality and the extent to which species intensively use areas for activities such as foraging.

PLoS ONE↗

USGS2018

A test of sex specific genetic markers in the Hawaiian hoary bat and relevance to population studies

We tested the utility of a protocol using genetic markers that previously proved successful to identify the sex of Vespertilionid bats on tissues collected from live bats and carcasses of varying age from the Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus). This molecular method is based on genes unique to X and Y chromosomes in mammals and previously was used successfully on North American hoary bats (L. c. cinereus). We amplified two markers within intron regions of the zinc-finger-X (Zfx) and zinc-finger-Y (Zfy) genes using a multiplexed polymerase chain reaction technique and obtained product bands that were easily visualized using gel electrophoresis. Genotyping determined the sex of 36 individual Hawaiian hoary bat carcasses previously assigned sex only by external genitalia and identified sex for 29 “unknown” bat carcasses that could not be classified by external genitalia. Employing this method for sexing Hawaiian hoary bats will permit more reliable evaluation of the ratio of males to females in subpopulations affected by fatalities from emerging threats. This is critical to the conservation and management of this endangered bat.

Technical Report↗

USGS2016

Winter distribution and use of high elevation caves as foraging sites by the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus semotus

We examine altitudinal movements involving unusual use of caves by Hawaiian hoary bats, Lasiurus cinereus semotus , during winter and spring in the Mauna Loa Forest Reserve (MLFR), Hawai‘i Island. Acoustic detection of hoary bat vocalizations, were recorded with regularity outside 13 lava tube cave entrances situated between 2,200 to 3,600 m asl from November 2012 to April 2013. Vocalizations were most numerous in November and December with the number of call events and echolocation pulses decreasing through the following months. Bat activity was positively correlated with air temperature and negatively correlated with wind speed. Visual searches found no evidence of hibernacula nor do Hawaiian hoary bats appear to shelter by day in these caves. Nevertheless, bats fly deep into caves as evidenced by numerous carcasses found in cave interiors. The occurrence of feeding buzzes around cave entrances and visual observations of bats flying in acrobatic fashion in cave interiors point to the use of these spaces as foraging sites. Peridroma moth species (Noctuidae), the only abundant nocturnal, flying insect sheltering in large numbers in rock rubble and on cave walls in the MLFR, apparently serve as the principal prey attracting hoary bats during winter to lava tube caves in the upper MLFR. Caves above 3,000 m on Mauna Loa harbor temperatures suitable for Pseudogymnoascus destructansfungi , the causative agent of White-nose Syndrome that is highly lethal to some species of North American cave-dwelling bats. We discuss the potential for White-nose Syndrome to establish and affect Hawaiian hoary bats.

Hawaii↗

USGS2016

Acoustic surveys of Hawaiian Hoary Bats in Kahikinui Forest Reserve and Nakula Natural Area Reserve on the Island of Maui

The Kahikinui Forest Reserve and the adjoining Nakula Natural Area Reserve (KFR-NNAR) was established in 2011 as a conservation area on the leeward slope of Haleakalā Volcano on the island of Maui to protect unique natural features and endangered species including the Hawaiian hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus semotus . We recorded bat vocalizations from July 2012 to November 2014 using automated echolocation detectors at 14 point locations in the KFRNNAR. Our study area included remnants of recovering mesic montane forest with interspersed grasses (1,250‒1,850 m elevation, hereafter called “forest”) and xeric subalpine shrubland plant communities (1,860‒2,800 m, hereafter called “shrubland”). Monthly detections of Hawaiian hoary bats, Lasiurus cinereus semotus , within the KFR-NNAR identified areas of high and low detection probability as well as foraging activity. Sixty per cent of all detector-nights had confirmed bat vocalizations and included detections in every month of the study. Monthly detection probability values were highest from July to November 2012; these values were significantly greater than values measured in any month thereafter. Pooled values of detection probabilities, mean pulses/night, percentage of nights with feeding activity, and acoustic detections all were greater in the recovering forest zone than corresponding values from the shrublands. Our data provide baseline levels of hoary bat echolocation activity that may be compared with future studies in the KFR-NNAR relative to success criteria for Hawaiian hoary bat habitat restoration.

Hawaii↗

USGS2015

Two tickets to paradise: multiple dispersal events in the founding of hoary bat populations in Hawai'i

The Hawaiian islands are an extremely isolated oceanic archipelago, and their fauna has long served as models of dispersal in island biogeography. While molecular data have recently been applied to investigate the timing and origin of dispersal events for several animal groups including birds, insects, and snails, these questions have been largely unaddressed in Hawai'i's only native terrestrial mammal, the Hawaiian hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus semotus . Here, we use molecular data to test the hypotheses that (1) Hawaiian L . c . semotus originated via dispersal from North American populations of L . c . cinereus rather than from South American L . c . villosissimus , and (2) modern Hawaiian populations were founded from a single dispersal event. Contrary to the latter hypothesis, our mitochondrial data support a biogeographic history of multiple, relatively recent dispersals of hoary bats from North America to the Hawaiian islands. Coalescent demographic analyses of multilocus data suggest that modern populations of Hawaiian hoary bats were founded no more than 10 kya. Our finding of multiple evolutionarily significant units in Hawai'i highlights information that should be useful for re-evaluation of the conservation status of hoary bats in Hawai'i.

PLoS ONE↗

USGS2013

A five-year study of Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus cinereus semotus ) occupancy on the island of Hawai`i

Using acoustic recordings of the vocalizations of the endangered Hawaiian hoary bat ( Lasiurus cinereus semotus ) collected over a five-year period (2007–2011) from 25 survey areas across the island of Hawai`i, we modeled the relationship between habitat attributes and bat occurrence. Our data support the conclusion that hoary bats concentrate in the coastal lowlands of Hawai`i during the breeding season, May through October, and migrate to interior highlands during the winter non-breeding season. Highest occupancy peaked on the Julian date 15 September across the five-year average and during the season of fledging by the young of the year. Although the Hawaiian hoary bat is a habitat generalist species and occurs from sea level to the highest volcanic peaks on Hawai`i, there was a significant association between occupancy and the prevalence of mature forest cover. Trends in occupancy were stable to slightly increasing during the breeding season over the five years of our surveys.

Hawai'i↗