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G. B. Rathbun

Publications and source records attributed to G. B. Rathbun.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
USGS1995

Can Dugongs Survive in Palau?

In August 1991 we surveyed dugongs Dugong dugon in the coastal waters of Palau using methods similar to aerial surveys conducted in 1977, 1978 and 1983. Twenty-six dugongs (including four calves) were seen, a count within the range obtained previously. The rate at which dugongs were seen per unit flight-time was lower than for any of the other surveys, despite the observers being more experienced than those used in the past. More than 20 knowledgeable Palauan residents (including five dugong hunters) were interviewed about dugong abundance, mortality and natural history. They told us that the illegal killing of dugongs occurs openly. We found locally crafted jewellery made from dugong ribs for sale illegally at four stores. Unless poaching is stopped, we believe that dugongs will become extinct in Palau as they have in several other archipelagoes.

Biological Conservation↗
USGS1990

Status of the greater flamingo in Haiti

Although flamingos in Haiti can still be found in most areas of their historical range, survey results indicate that numbers have declined drastically over the last 50 years. The coastal mangrove lagoons between Grand Saline and Gonaïves, the inland lakes of Étang Saumâtre and Trou Caïman, and Ile de la Gonâve have been, and remained, the major areas used by flamingos. The species has been extripated from areas with high human population densities (Ile à Vache, Les Cayes, and Cap-Haïtien). No evidence of breeding activity was obtained. The last nesting colony known to occur in Haiti was reported in 1928. Available data suggest that Haiti is mostly utilized by flamingos for feeding and roosting during non-breeding, winter dispersal from Great Inagua, and perhaps Cuba. Flamingo numbers in Haiti are estimated at about 900 (±600) birds. Population trends in Haiti are likely declining due to increasing human disturbance, habitat degradation, and exploitation for food and trade.

Colonial Waterbirds↗