Knowledge Synthesis of Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow Science
WARC researchers have developed a literature review of science on the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow focused on topics relevant to upcoming management decisions.
The Science Issue and Relevance: The Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow (CSSS; Ammospiza maritima mirabilis) is a federally endangered species endemic to southern Florida and is found in the freshwater prairies of Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. The restoration and management of suitable habitat and environmental conditions (e.g., fire interval, days dry) for this non-migratory species is viewed as a critical
means to the recovery and maintenance of its subpopulations and is an important goal of Everglades restoration. The CSSS is strongly associated with short-hydroperiod (i.e., flooded for only a few months per year) marl prairie habitat, one of the most diverse floral and faunal communities in the Everglades. The major threats to the CSSS are diminished habitat suitability through altered hydroperiods, changes to fire frequency, and woody encroachment.
Methodology for Addressing the Issue: We have developed a literature review of science on the CSSS focused on topics relevant to upcoming management decisions. Topics include background information (e.g., life history, genetics), ecology (e.g., habitat requirements, trophic interactions), challenges with determining population estimates, and potential impacts from climate change. The review provides information on several CSSS models and decision support tools available for water management and restoration planning in the Everglades. Each major section of the synthesis is summarized by an infographic designed for a public audience.
Future Steps: This synthesis has been provided to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The report can be used as a foundation for the upcoming Species Status Assessment for the CSSS and for updating the Recovery Plan.
Everglades Depth Estimation Network
Joint Ecosystem Modeling
Everglades Depth Estimation Network (EDEN)
Joint Ecosystem Modeling: Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow Helper
Joint Ecosystem Modeling: Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow Marl Prairie Indicator
WARC researchers have developed a literature review of science on the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow focused on topics relevant to upcoming management decisions.
The Science Issue and Relevance: The Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow (CSSS; Ammospiza maritima mirabilis) is a federally endangered species endemic to southern Florida and is found in the freshwater prairies of Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. The restoration and management of suitable habitat and environmental conditions (e.g., fire interval, days dry) for this non-migratory species is viewed as a critical
means to the recovery and maintenance of its subpopulations and is an important goal of Everglades restoration. The CSSS is strongly associated with short-hydroperiod (i.e., flooded for only a few months per year) marl prairie habitat, one of the most diverse floral and faunal communities in the Everglades. The major threats to the CSSS are diminished habitat suitability through altered hydroperiods, changes to fire frequency, and woody encroachment.
Methodology for Addressing the Issue: We have developed a literature review of science on the CSSS focused on topics relevant to upcoming management decisions. Topics include background information (e.g., life history, genetics), ecology (e.g., habitat requirements, trophic interactions), challenges with determining population estimates, and potential impacts from climate change. The review provides information on several CSSS models and decision support tools available for water management and restoration planning in the Everglades. Each major section of the synthesis is summarized by an infographic designed for a public audience.
Future Steps: This synthesis has been provided to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The report can be used as a foundation for the upcoming Species Status Assessment for the CSSS and for updating the Recovery Plan.