Project Introduction
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The Cerulean Warbler Atlas Project (CEWAP) was designed to determine the population status and habitat and area requirements of the Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea), a high-priority Neotropical migratory bird. CEWAP began in 1997, focusing on breeding populations within U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Region 5 and the Northeast Region of Partners in Flight (PIF). The project was then expanded to include the entire range of this species. CEWAP engaged volunteer birders and professional biologists to survey known and potential breeding sites of Cerulean Warblers from late May through July. The results were used to develop a detailed atlas of Cerulean Warbler populations in each state and physiographic region, as well as a set of suggested land-management guidelines to enhance regional populations. All occupied sites are plotted on topographical maps. Accompanying data on habitat, landscape characteristics, and land ownership have been compiled and entered into a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) database at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Beginning in late spring and summer, project participants surveyed known and potential Cerulean Warbler breeding sites. They determined the number of breeding pairs and productivity, described nesting habitat, and identified potential threats to the population and its habitat. Field surveys used a tape-playback protocol of Cerulean Warbler vocalizations to elicit a response from territorial birds. Participants received a free research kit that included
The final report, "An Atlas of Cerulean Warbler Populations," is now complete and has been submitted to the USFWS.
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