AgdaPkt 2004-09-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Rails build elevated nests out of grasses and sticks that are observable from above. In fact, the nests float with the tide. Clapper rail nests are perfecdy adapted to protect eggs from rising water. Made of hollow, buoyant stems of cordgrass, they float up slighdy with the tide. Rails build their nests far into the marsh where eggs and chicks are protected from predators. If surrounding � vegetation doesn't provide adequate cover, the rails will cover the nest with loosely woven canopy of living or dead plant material. Bi�d Island is completely inundated during Bay high tide events. Although winter bird surveys show "pairing" behavior on the Island, there have been no known reports of completed rail nesting behavior on Bird Island. � Outside of nesting behavior, the Bird Island habitat becomes completely inundated during high tide Current Levee Vegetation Gives events. During inundation rails seek refuge in elevated No Visual Cover areas such as the levee wall at Redwood Shores. It is the extent of danger rails could be exposed to during these events that are crucial. Rails are uncommonly tolerant of human beings, and human beings have no reason to harass rails. If we can isolate potential contact with rails to those instances when the rails would be near the levee tops because of a tidal event, we can likewise isolate and prevent the opportunity for a"take" of rails. By coordinating a"rail" closure of the levee top during periods of potential rail use, we can manage the habitat for the benefit of people and for the rails. Besides the closure of the levee tops during �� periods when human/rail contact is as likely as it will ever be, we should strive to provide what the California Clapper rail needs. Native cover, and non- native screening plants (like wild anise that currendy grows on the levee top) must be encouraged and maintained to provide a dense natural cover wall. Those areas of cover observed between the SBCA facility and the levee wall are approximately 3 feet in � height and excellent cover for animals. Adding vegetation adds �isual security Unfortunately, dogs are incompatible in this area. Dog walkers, with dogs on leash, must be restricted from the levee wall. Uncontrolled dogs with negligent dog owners allowing them off leash are a danger to rails and mice and must be prohibited. It is unfortunate, but necessary until such time as dogs are willing to accept the Endangered Species Act. Redwood City will, in consideration of an agreed to phased opening of the levee top, adopt such ordinances as are necessary to enforce and protect this portion of the Bair Island Complex. 29