Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Status for the Rota Bridled White-Eye (Zosterops rotensis) From the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Note: EPA no longer updates this information, but it may be useful as a reference or resource.

[Federal Register: January 22, 2004 (Volume 69, Number 14)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 3022-3029]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr22ja04-16]

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service
50 CFR Part 17
RIN 1018-AI16

Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Status
for the Rota Bridled White-Eye (Zosterops rotensis) From the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, determine endangered
status pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, for
the Rota bridled white-eye (Zosterops rotensis), a bird. The Rota
bridled white-eye is a recognized species of white-eye endemic to the
island of Rota, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The Rota
bridled white-eye was once widespread, possibly occupying forested
habitat at all elevations. The total population of the Rota bridled
white-eye was estimated at 1,167 individuals in 1996, representing a
decline of 89 percent from the 1982 estimated population of 10,763
individuals. The Rota bridled white-eye has continued to decline: In
1999, the population estimate was approximately 1,092 individuals. The
Rota bridled white-eye is currently found in four patches of mature wet
forest at elevations above 200 meters (650 feet). The reasons for this
species' decline are likely the degradation or loss of habitat due to
development, agricultural activities, and naturally occurring events;
avian disease; predation; and pesticides. This final rule implements
the protection provisions of the Act.

DATES: This rule is effective February 23, 2004.

ADDRESSES: The administrative file for this rule is available for
inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office,
300 Ala Moana Boulevard, Room 3-122, Box 50088, Honolulu, HI 96850.
To request copies of regulations on listed species, or for
inquiries on prohibitions and permits, write or visit the Service's
Portland Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species
Permits, 911 NE., 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232-4181.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gina Shultz, Assistant Field
Supervisor, at the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see
ADDRESSES section) (telephone (808) 792-9400; facsimile (808) 792-
9580).
Endangered Species, Portland Office (see ADDRESSES section)
(telephone (503) 231-2063; facsimile (503) 231-6243).

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

The Rota bridled white-eye (Zosterops rotensis) is endemic to the
island of Rota, U.S. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
(CNMI). The fourth largest island in the Mariana Archipelago, Rota is
approximately 86 square kilometers (km2) (33 square miles (mi \2\)),
and is composed of a series of uplifted coral limestone plateaus with a
volcanic outcrop. The climate is tropical marine with high humidity and
uniform temperatures throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures
are approximately 12 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), with
approximately 200 centimeters (cm) (80 inches (in)) of rainfall
annually and about 80 percent humidity. Rainfall averages 27 cm (10.6
in) per month during the wet season and 9.6 cm (3.8 in) per month
during the dry season.
The Rota bridled white-eye is a small flocking bird in the Family
Zosteropidae, Order Passeriformes. The name white-eye is derived from
the ring of white feathers around each eye. The plumage is tinged with
yellow, and the bill, legs, and feet are yellow-orange (Pratt et al.
1987). Wing, tail, and tarsal lengths taken from 21 adult birds
captured by the Mariana Avian Rescue and Survey (MARS) Project averaged
5.6 cm (2.2 in), 3.8 cm (1.5 in), and 2.6 cm (1 in), respectively
(Scott Derrickson, National Zoological Park, in litt. 1998). Average
weights taken from birds captured for the MARS Project were 9.7 grams
(0.3 ounces) for males and 9.2 grams (0.3 ounces) for females (S.
Derrickson, in litt. 1998).
All of the bridled white-eyes in Micronesia, including the Rota
bridled white-eye, were placed under one species, Zosterops
conspicillatus, by Stresemann (1931). Later, the bridled

[[Page 3023]]

white-eyes in the Mariana Islands were recognized as three separate
subspecies: Z. c. rotensis (Rota), Z. c. saypani (Saipan and Tinian),
and Z. c. conspicillatus (Guam) (Mees 1969). However, the Rota bridled
white-eye is now considered to be a full species, Z. rotensis, on the
basis of recent genetic evidence from mitochondrial DNA sequences
(Slikas et al. 2000) and unpublished differences in plumage,
vocalizations, and behavior (H. D. Pratt, in litt. 1994, as cited in
Collar et al. 1994).
Rota bridled white-eyes are primarily found in native forests and
introduced Acacia confusa (sosugi) forests at upper elevations in
Rota's Sabana region (Amidon 2000). On Saipan and Guam, bridled white-
eyes were recorded at a wide range of elevations in native and
introduced forests, suburban areas, beach strands, wetlands, and
grasslands at a wide range of elevations (Craig 1996; Jenkins 1983).
Rota bridled white-eyes forage primarily by gleaning insects from
leaves in the upper, outer layers of trees, but also feed on seeds,
nectar, flowers, and fruits (Craig and Taisacan 1994; Amidon 2000). The
majority of the foraging observations were recorded in Elaeocarpus joga
(yoga) trees (Amidon 2000). However, these birds have also been
observed foraging in eight other tree species, including Hernandia
labyrinthica (oschal), Merrilliodendron megacarpum (faniok), and sosugi
(Amidon 2000).
Rota bridled white-eyes are highly gregarious and are often
observed foraging in small groups of five to seven birds (Craig and
Taisacan 1994). These foraging groups sometimes include rufous fantails
(Rhipidura rufifrons) (Amidon 2000). Historically, flock sizes were
larger, but available evidence indicates that group sizes have
decreased as the population has declined (Craig 1989; Craig and
Taisacan 1994; Fancy and Snetsinger 2001; Derrickson, in litt. 2001).
Home ranges of Rota bridled white-eye flocks are estimated to be at
least 150 meters (m) (495 feet (ft)) in diameter (Craig and Taisacan
1994).
Very little is known about the breeding biology of the Rota bridled
white-eye. Twenty-three nests have been recorded (Yamashina 1932; Pratt
1985; Lusk and Taisacan 1997; Amidon 2000), and the discovery dates of
these nests indicate that the breeding season extends at least from
December to August. However, a year-round breeding season may be more
likely, as indicated by breeding records of bridled white-eye species
and subspecies (Marshall 1949; Jenkins 1983). Clutches from four Rota
bridled white-eye nests consisted of one to two light blue eggs
(Yamashina 1932; Amidon 2000). Observations of 7 active nests by Amidon
(2000) indicate incubation and nestling periods of at least 10 and up
to 12 days, and observations of 1 banded nestling indicates a fledgling
period of at least 8 days. Nests were found above 320 m (1,056 ft)
elevation in oschal, yoga, faniok, and sosugi trees with diameter at
breast height (dbh) between 23 cm (9 in) and 60.2 cm (24 in) (Pratt
1985; Lusk and Taisacan 1997; Amidon 2000). Rota bridled white-eye
nests were commonly suspended between branchlets and leaf petioles and
were composed of rootlets, woven grass or Pandanus spp. fibers, moss,
spider webs, and a yellow cotton-like material (Lusk and Taisacan 1997;
Amidon 2000).
Very little is known about the past distribution and abundance of
bridled white-eyes on Rota. Early descriptions by Baker (1948)
described this species as numerous and found at lower elevations.
Residents of Rota during the post-World War II years also remember
seeing white-eyes at low elevations in Songsong Village (Engbring et
al. 1986). However, in 1975, Pratt et al. (1979) found no white-eyes in
the lowland areas and observed birds in the Sabana region only at upper
elevations. The current distribution of Rota bridled white-eyes
indicates that the highest densities are found in the high-elevation
wet forests on the Sabana (Amidon 2000; Fancy and Snetsinger 2001).
Most Rota bridled white-eye nests with recorded locations (22 out of 23
nests) were also recorded in high-elevation wet forest (Pratt 1985;
Lusk and Taisacan 1997; Amidon 2000). Whether this distribution is the
result of habitat preference or is simply an artifact of population
decline is unknown; however, the species appears to have been mostly
limited to this distribution since at least the 1960s (Fancy and
Snetsinger 2001).
In 1977, a bird survey, conducted only on the Sabana, estimated
Rota bridled white-eye densities to be 22 birds/km2 (35
birds/mi2) (Ralph and Sakai 1979). The first island-wide
survey of forest birds was conducted in 1982. During this survey,
bridled white-eyes were found only in forested areas above 300 m (984
ft) (Engbring et al. 1986). The average bridled white-eye density on
Rota was determined to be 183 birds/km2 (292 birds/
mi2), with an island population estimate of 10,763 birds.
Other surveys following the 1982 survey showed little change in the
white-eye distribution, but did show a decline in white-eye numbers
(Engbring 1987, 1989; Craig and Taisacan 1994). A 1994 survey found
that densities had decreased 27 percent (155 birds/km2 (248
birds/mi2)) from the 1982 estimate (Ramsey and Harrod 1995).
In the fall of 1996, a survey by Fancy and Snetsinger (2001) estimated
the population of Rota bridled white-eyes to be 1,167 birds. This
estimate indicated an 89 percent decline from the 1982 estimate. In
addition, this survey determined that the population was restricted
primarily to four patches of forest covering an area of about 254
hectares (ha) (628 acres (ac)) above 200 m (656 ft) elevation. Ninety-
four percent of the Rota bridled white-eyes were found to occur in
these patches. In 1999, survey work by Amidon (2000) estimated the Rota
bridled white-eye population to be 1,092 within the high-density areas
identified by Fancy and Snetsinger (2001).
The forest in these four high-density areas can be described as a
type of cloud forest, with growths of epiphytic ferns and orchids,
because of the cloud buildup over the Sabana region (Fosberg 1960;
Falanruw et al. 1989). Amidon (2000) found that the primary overstory
components of three of the four high-density Rota bridled white-eye
areas were oschal and yoga. The remaining area of the overstory was
almost exclusively faniok.
Currently, 85 percent of the Rota bridled white-eye population
occurs on public lands and 15 percent occurs on private lands. There is
no U.S. Government-owned land in the CNMI; all public lands are
administered by the Mariana Public Land Authority for people of Mariana
Island descent. Approximately 60 percent of the land on Rota is
administered by the Mariana Public Land Authority, although much of it
has been leased to private individuals.
The Rota bridled white-eye is listed as a critically endangered
species in the most recent list of threatened animals of the world by
the World Conservation Union (IUCN) (2002). The IUCN list provides an
assessment of the conservation status of species on a global scale in
order to highlight species threatened with extinction and, therefore,
promote their conservation. According to the IUCN, a critically
endangered species is one facing an extremely high risk of extinction
in the wild in the immediate future. Also, in 1991, the CNMI government
listed the Rota bridled white-eye as threatened or endangered (the CNMI
makes no distinction between the threatened and endangered categories).

Previous Federal Action

Federal action on the Rota bridled white-eye began when we
published a

[[Page 3024]]

Notice of Review in the Federal Register on December 30, 1982 (47 FR
58454). The Rota bridled white-eye was included as a Category 2
candidate for Federal listing. Category 2 species were those for which
conclusive data on biological vulnerability and threats were not
currently available to support publication of a proposed rule.
Subsequent Notices of Review, published on September 18, 1985 (50 FR
37958), January 6, 1989 (54 FR 554), and November 21, 1991 (56 FR
58804), also designated this species as a Category 2 species.
In the November 15, 1994, Notice of Review (59 FR 58982), the Rota
bridled white-eye was moved from a Category 2 candidate to a Category 1
candidate for Federal listing. Category 1 species were those for which
we had on file substantial information on biological vulnerability and
threats to support preparations of listing proposals, but for which
listing proposals had not yet been published because they were
precluded by other listing activities.
In the February 28, 1996 (61 FR 7596), and September 19, 1997 (62
FR 49398), Candidate Notices of Review, we discontinued category
designations and listed the Rota bridled white-eye was listed as a
candidate species. We define candidate species as those for which we
have sufficient information on biological vulnerability and threats to
support a proposal to list the species as threatened or endangered.
On August 29, 2001, a settlement agreement was announced between
the Service, the Center for Biological Diversity, and others regarding
endangered species litigation. The terms of agreement required that the
Service submit to the Federal Register, on or by September 29, 2001, a
proposed rule to list the Rota bridled white-eye as endangered. On
October 3, 2001, we published a proposed rule to list the species as
endangered (66 FR 50383). Because all available listing funds in 2002
were used to fund the proposal and designation of critical habitat for
other species required by court order, we were not able to finalize our
decision to list the Rota bridled white-eye. On August 22, 2002, the
U.S. District Court in Hawaii approved an agreement between the Service
and the Center for Biological Diversity to modify the court-ordered
deadlines for submitting final critical habitat designations for the
Kauai cave amphipod (Spelaeorchestia koloana), Kauai cave wolf spider
(Adelocosa anops), and Blackburn's sphinx moth (Manduca blackburni). In
consideration for an extension of time on these critical habitat
proposals, the Service committed to take final action on the proposal
to list the Rota bridled white-eye by January 15, 2004.

Summary of Comments and Recommendations

In the proposed rule (66 FR 50383), we requested that all
interested parties submit comments on the proposal. We also contacted
all appropriate Commonwealth and Federal agencies, local governments,
landowners, and other interested parties and invited them to comment.
The comment period closed on December 3, 2001 (66 FR 50383).
During the public comment period, we received five comment letters.
Commenters included one Federal agency, two organizations, and two
individuals. We did not receive any comments from State agencies. In
total, none of the commenters opposed the listing, three supported the
listing, and two were neutral.
This final rule incorporates and addresses comments and information
we received during the comment period. We address substantive comments
concerning the rule below. Comments of a similar nature are grouped
together.

Peer Review

In accordance with our July 1, 1994, Interagency Cooperative Policy
for Peer Review in Endangered Species Act Activities (59 FR 43270), we
solicited the expert opinions of three independent specialists
regarding pertinent scientific or commercial data and assumptions
relating to the taxonomy, population status, and supporting biological
and ecological information for the Rota bridled white-eye. The purpose
of such review is to ensure that listing decisions are based on
scientifically sound data, assumptions, and analyses, including input
of appropriate experts and specialists. Information and suggestions
provided by reviewers were incorporated or addressed as applicable.
We received peer reviews from three experts. All agreed that the
Rota bridled white-eye is imperiled throughout its range, and that the
proposed rule was based on scientifically sound data, assumptions, and
analysis. These experts' comments are incorporated in the final rule
and summarized in the following responses to comments.
Comment 1: Several commenters stated that critical habitat should
have been proposed for the Rota bridled white-eye at the time the
proposed rule was published. Two peer reviewers and two commenters
suggested that critical habitat be designated as soon as possible.
Our Response: As stated in the proposed rule, we believe that
designation of critical habitat for the Rota bridled white-eye would be
prudent. However, due to our limited listing budget, we are not able to
propose critical habitat for the Rota bridled white-eye at this time
and it is essential to the conservation of the species that this final
listing decision be published promptly. See 16 U.S.C. 1533(b)(6)(c)(i).
When funds become available, we will propose critical habitat for the
Rota bridled white-eye as required under section 4(a)(3) of the Act.
Comment 2: One commenter requested information on the plans that
will be proposed for the recovery of the species.
Our Response: A recovery plan will be developed, in coordination
with stakeholders. This plan will identify recovery objectives and
describe specific management actions necessary to achieve the
conservation and long-term survival of the species. We anticipate that
these management actions will include habitat protection and
restoration, and efforts to study and reduce Rota bridled white-eye
mortality.
Comment 3: One commenter suggested that high mosquito densities
within the Rota bridled white-eye's range and resulting blood loss
should be considered a limiting factor.
Our Response: We do not agree that blood loss from high mosquito
densities is having an impact on species survival. Compared to other
areas of Rota, mosquito densities appear to be higher on the Sabana
within the Rota bridled white-eye's range (Amidon pers. obs. 1999).
However, high mosquito densities would also likely impact other bird
species and reduce their abundance in this region. Review of bird
survey results do not indicate that the abundance of native species
differs between the Sabana region and other areas of the island (Amidon
unpubl. data 2000).

Summary of Factors Affecting the Species

Section 4 of the Act and our regulations issued to implement the
Act's listing provisions (50 CFR part 424) establish the procedures for
adding species to the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened
Species. We may determine a species to be endangered or threatened due
to one or more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the
Act. These factors and their application to the Rota bridled white-eye
are as follows:
A. The present or threatened destruction, modification, or

[[Page 3025]]

curtailment of its habitat or range. The Mariana Islands are believed
to have been colonized by humans at least 4,000 years ago (Craib 1983).
Before European contact, the island of Rota was thought to have had a
large human population that moved into the area from insular (interior)
southeast Asia and Melanesia and modified most of the island's
vegetation (Fosberg 1960). During the Spanish administration (1521-
1899), the island was largely depopulated, and the vegetation probably
recovered on most of the island until the Japanese administration from
1914 to 1944 (Fosberg 1960; Engbring et al. 1986). During the Japanese
administration, much of the level land was cleared for sugar cane
cultivation, including areas on the Sabana, and additional areas were
also cleared on the Sabana for phosphate mining (Fosberg 1960; Engbring
et al. 1986). Rota was heavily bombed but not invaded during World War
II (Engbring et al. 1986). In 1946, one-fourth of the total area of
Rota was covered in well developed forest, but this was broken later
into small parcels or located along the base of cliffs (Fosberg 1960).
By the mid-1980s, Engbring et al. (1986) reported that 60 percent of
Rota was composed of native forest, although a good portion of this was
in an altered condition. The majority of the mature native forest was
found along the cliffs of the upper plateau, with the forest on level
portions of the island being mostly secondary growth. Today, less than
60 percent of the native limestone forest remains (Falanruw et al.
1989), and there are plans for further projects, such as agricultural
homesteads and resort development in the As Mundo and As Rosalia areas,
in the remaining limestone forest, and the available habitat for the
Rota bridled white-eye.
Although the habitat in the limestone forest may be threatened by
development, the majority of the high-elevation forests on the Sabana
have not been subjected to development and large-scale clearing in the
past because of their rugged topography. The forests have, however,
received extensive typhoon damage in recent years, which has increased
fragmentation and reduced the availability of breeding and foraging
habitat. In 1988, typhoon Roy hit Rota with winds of over 241
kilometers per hour (150 miles per hour) and completely defoliated
almost all of the forests of Rota (Fancy and Snetsinger 1996). In some
areas, 50 percent of the trees were downed, and 100 percent of the
trees suffered limb damage. The wet forests of the upper cliffline were
drastically altered by this storm and have been heavily degraded (Fancy
and Snetsinger 2001; Derrickson, in litt. 2001). In December 1997,
Supertyphoon Paka hit Rota, and much of the upper plateau was
defoliated again. These storms have resulted in the degradation and
destruction of high-elevation wet forests on Rota and have limited the
available nesting and foraging sites for the Rota bridled white-eye.
This habitat loss may be the primary factor in the range restriction
and population decline of the Rota bridled white-eye over the last two
decades (Amidon 2000; Fancy and Snetsinger 2001; Derrickson, in litt.
2001).
Although land clearing on the Sabana has been limited, it may have
played a part in the extent of typhoon damage to the forests on the
Sabana. Clearings increased forest fragmentation on the Sabana, and
thus increased the amount of forest edge, especially in the center and
this increased forest exposure to typhoon damage. Probably the damage
caused by typhoons might not have been as extensive if the forests on
the Sabana had not been fragmented by land clearing.
B. Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or
educational purposes. Valued for their songs, some species and
subspecies of white-eyes are kept as pets in Asian countries (Moreau
and Kikkawa 1985). However, there are no reports of Rota bridled white-
eyes in the pet trade. Unrestricted collecting or hunting is not known
to be a factor currently affecting this species. Vandalism is a
potential concern for this species. Rare plants on Rota have been the
target of vandals who feared the plant's existence was an impediment to
development (Raulerson and Rinehart 1997); however, we have no evidence
of such vandalism directly affecting Rota bridled white-eyes.
C. Disease or Predation. Black drongos (Dicrurus macrocercus), a
bird species from Asia, was thought to have been introduced to Rota
from Taiwan by the Japanese South Seas Development Company in 1935 to
control destructive insects (Baker 1948). Black drongos were noted for
their aggression toward and occasional predation on small passerines
(Ali and Ripley 1972; Maben 1982). On Guam, black drongos were observed
eating a Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus) (Maben 1982), rufous
fantails (Rhipidura rufifrons), a Mariana swiftlet (Aerodramus
bartschi) (Perez 1968), and either a bridled white-eye or a Guam
broadbill (Myiagra freycineti) (Drahos 2002). A black drongo was also
observed eating a Rota bridled white-eye (Amidon 2000). In addition to
predation, Maben (1982) observed black drongos harassing native and
introduced doves (Order Columbidae), cardinal (Micronesian) honeyeaters
(Myzomela rubratra), and Micronesian starlings (Aplonis opaca). Drongos
have also been observed harassing other potential drongo predators such
as crows and raptors (Ali and Ripley 1972; Maben 1982; Melville 1991).
Craig and Taisacan (1994) believe that a relationship exists
between the abundance and distribution of black drongos and the decline
and range restriction of the Rota bridled white-eye. Engbring et al.
(1986) found black drongos to be uncommon in the forests of the upper
plateau, where the Rota bridled white-eye is found, and abundant in
lowlands. In lowland areas, the rufous fantail, another potential prey
species of the black drongo, was also found to be uncommon, while birds
too large to be prey for black drongos were abundant (Engbring et al.
1986). Amidon (2000) analyzed 1982 and 1994 bird survey data and found
that black drongo numbers had increased on the Sabana between 1982 and
1994, while Rota bridled white-eye numbers decreased. However, Amidon
did not find a negative relationship between black drongo, Rota bridled
white-eye, and rufous fantail abundance estimates at survey stations on
the Sabana.
Not all researchers agree that the black drongo was the main factor
in the decline and range restriction of the Rota bridled white-eye.
Maben (1982) found that, although they would harass other birds on
Guam, black drongos did not regularly attempt to prey on them. Birds
have also been reported to forage within black drongo territories and
nest near active black drongo nests without harassment (Ali and Ripley
1972; Shukkur and Joseph 1980; Maben 1982). Michael Lusk of the Service
(unpublished data) observed no interactions between black drongos and
Rota bridled white-eyes during a 1993-1994 study of their interactions
on Rota (cited in Fancy and Snetsinger 1996). In addition, Amidon
(2000) observed only one black drongo predation on a Rota bridled
white-eye over 11 months, despite efforts to record observations of
black drongo predation on Rota bridled white-eyes. However, it is
possible that black drongo predation or harassment, in combination with
other factors, such as habitat loss, may be limiting the Rota bridled
white-eye population (Amidon 2000; Fancy and Snetsinger 2001).
The brown treesnake (Boiga irregularis) is recognized as the major
factor in the decline of native forest birds on Guam (Savidge 1986,
1987). There have been 46 sightings and 8 captures of brown treesnakes
on Saipan

[[Page 3026]]

since 1982 (Nate Hawley, CNMI Department of Fish and Wildlife, in litt.
2002), and a population of this voracious predator may now be
established on Saipan (Hawley, in litt. 2002). Presently, no
observations of live brown treesnakes have been recorded on Rota,
although two confirmed dead brown treesnakes have been found on Rota
(Hawley, in litt. 2002). Currently, brown treesnakes are not believed
to be a factor in the decline of the Rota bridled white-eye (Fancy and
Snetsinger 2001). However, given that the brown treesnake is well
established on Guam and may now be established on Saipan, and that two
dead brown treesnakes were found on Rota, the accidental introduction
of the brown treesnake to Rota is a serious potential threat.
Two species of introduced rat, Asian house rat (Rattus tanezumi)
and Polynesian rat (R. exulans), have been recorded on Rota (Johnson
1962; Flannery 1995). Recent work by Service personnel on Rota, and
opportunistic trapping and observations for the Guam rail release
program, have indicated that high densities of rats exist on Rota
(Fancy and Snetsinger 2001). Introduced rats have been found to be
major predators of native birds in Hawaii, New Zealand, and other
Pacific Islands (Atkinson 1977, 1985; Robertson et al. 1994). It
appears unlikely that rat predation is responsible for the Rota bridled
white-eye's restricted distribution because rat numbers within their
range are similar to other areas outside their range on Rota (Amidon
2000). However, rat predation may be limiting the recovery of the
species and may, in combination with other factors, be playing a role
in the population decline.
Avian disease has also been implicated as a potential factor in the
population decline and range restriction of the Rota bridled white-eye.
In Hawaii, research has indicated that avian disease was a significant
factor in the decline and distributional change of the native avifauna
(van Riper et al. 1986; Warner 1968). Observations made by biologists
and veterinarians who have worked on Rota, however, do not indicate the
presence of pathogens or an epidemic (Fancy and Snetsinger 1996; Pratt
1983). Research on Guam has not revealed the presence of significant
levels of disease (Savidge 1986). The presence of the haematozoans,
Plasmodium spp. (Savidge 1986) and Haemoproteus spp. (Marshall 1949;
Savidge 1986), in bridled white-eyes on Saipan has been reported.
However, these parasites were considered to be relatively benign based
on the good physical condition of the birds (Savidge 1986). In
addition, 21 Rota bridled white-eyes captured by the MARS Project were
sampled for avian disease, and no diseases were detected (Glenn Olsen,
Biological Resources Division, pers. comm. 2000). However, no large-
scale studies on the presence and effect of disease on the native birds
of Rota have been conducted. Therefore, the role of avian disease in
the decline and range restriction of the Rota bridled white-eye remains
unclear. However, the accidental introduction of a new avian disease,
such as West Nile virus, could also pose an additional threat to the
species.
D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms. In 1991, the
CNMI government listed the Rota bridled white-eye as threatened or
endangered (the CNMI makes no distinction between the threatened and
endangered categories) (Public Law 2-51). However, CNMI regulations do
not prohibit the taking of CNMI-listed threatened and endangered
species (Kevin Garlick, Service, in litt. 1997).
In addition to listing the species, the CNMI has also designated a
protected area on the Sabana in 1994 through Rota Local Law No. 9-1
(Sabana Protected Area Management Committee 1996). A plan was developed
to manage this protected area as part of an effort by the CNMI
government to limit development in this upper elevation area (Sabana
Protected Area Management Committee 1996). Zones of activities have
been designated for the protected area, with rules established for each
zone. A number of activities are allowed to occur in the protected area
in certain zones, such as farming, hunting, forestry, and medicinal use
of plants. Many of these activities require a permit from the CNMI
Department of Lands and Natural Resources. Conservation zones within
the protected area have been established in areas critical to the
continued survival of bats on Rota (Sabana Protected Area Management
Committee 1996). These conservation zones also correspond to most of
the current range of the Rota bridled white-eye. However, vegetation
that is 15 cm (6 in) diameter at breast height or less may be permitted
to be removed in certain zones, including the bat conservation zone.
Removal of this vegetation may have negative effects on Rota bridled
white-eye nesting and foraging habitat. While preservation of these
forested areas is believed to also be essential for the long-term
stability of the Rota bridled white-eye, not all of its habitat occurs
within the Sabana Protected Area. In the As Rosalia area, there are
plans for projects such as agricultural homesteads and resort
development. Since the Rota bridled white-eye is not protected from
take as a CNMI-listed species, and since the Sabana Protected Area
affords minimal habitat protection for this species, regulatory
mechanisms to protect this species are inadequate.
E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting Its Continued
Existence. The use of pesticides has been implicated as a potential
factor in the decline of the Rota bridled white-eye (Fancy and
Snetsinger 2001). However, little information is available on the use
of pesticides in the post World War II Mariana Islands. The U.S.
military is reported to have liberally applied DDT (1, 1-bis
(chlorophenyl)-2, 2, 2 trichloroethane) on the Mariana Islands during
and after WWII (Baker 1946; Grue 1985). Pesticide use on Guam was
implicated as a potential factor in the decline of Guam's avifauna
(Jenkins 1983; Diamond 1984; Drahos 2002). But concentrations of DDT
and DDE (1, 1-bis (chlorophenyl)-2, 2-dichloroethane) in Mariana
swiftlet carcasses and guano were considered to be too low to cause
mortality or reproductive failure (Grue 1985; Savidge 1986). The
insecticide malathion was also used to control the introduced melon fly
(Dacus cucurbitae) in 1988 and 1989 on Rota (Engbring 1989). However, a
study to monitor the status of birds on Rota before and after the
insecticide application did not detect any adverse effects on
populations there (Engbring 1989). Approximately 90 to 95 percent of
crops grown on Rota are root crops, such as sweet potato and taro, so
pesticide use tends to be minimal. The most commonly used insecticides
on Rota are diazinon, sevin, and malathion, which are used to control
insects on vegetables and livestock (John Morton, Service, pers. comm.
1998). It is not known what impacts these insecticides may have on the
Rota bridled white-eye.
The small population size and limited distribution of the Rota
bridled white-eye places this species at risk from naturally occurring
events and environmental factors. In particular, typhoons pose a
serious threat, directly and indirectly, to the white-eye and other
avian populations (Wiley and Wunderle 1993). This threat can also be
exacerbated by human land-use practices, which can affect the extent of
damage caused by these storms (see ``The Present or Threatened
Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment of its Habitat or Range,''
above). Direct effects include mortality from winds and rains. Indirect
effects include the short-term and potential long-term loss of food
supplies, foraging habitat, nests, nest and roost sites, and
microclimate

[[Page 3027]]

changes. For example, in December 1997, Supertyphoon Paka defoliated
trees and removed large amounts of epiphytic growth and associated
organic matter from the forests of Rota (John Morton, pers. comm.
1998). This may have resulted in lower-quality foraging and breeding
habitat and decreased availability of nesting material for the Rota
bridled white-eye until the forests regenerated from the typhoon.
Typhoon damage can also lead to long-term forest composition changes
(Lugo and Scatena 1996), which can affect bird community composition.
For example, Amidon (2000) found that Rota bridled white-eye abundance
decreased on the Sabana between 1982 and 1994, while black drongo,
collared kingfisher (Halcyon chloris), and Micronesian starling
abundance increased. These changes in bird abundance may be related to
changes in habitat caused by typhoon Roy in 1988.
In making this determination, we have carefully evaluated the best
scientific and commercial information available regarding the past,
present, and future threats faced by this species. Based on this
evaluation, we are listing the Rota bridled white-eye as endangered.
The Rota bridled white-eye is endemic to the island of Rota, and its
population has declined an estimated 89 percent from 1982 to 1996. This
species is threatened by one or more of the following: habitat
degradation or loss due to development, agricultural activities, and
naturally occurring events such as typhoons; predation by black drongos
and rats; and inadequate existing regulatory mechanisms. The small
population size and limited distribution make this species particularly
vulnerable to extinction from random environmental events. Because the
Rota bridled white-eye is in danger of extinction throughout all or a
significant portion of its range, it fits the definition of endangered
as defined in the Act.

Critical Habitat

Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as the (i)
specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at
the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found
those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation
of the species, and (II) that may require special management
considerations or protection, and (ii) specific areas outside the
geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed in
accordance with the provisions of section 4 of the Act, upon a
determination by the Secretary that such areas are essential for the
conservation of the species. ``Conservation'' means the use of all
methods and procedures needed to bring the species to the point at
which listing under the Act is no longer necessary.
Section 4 of the Act and implementing regulations (50 CFR 424 part
12) require that, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, the
Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) designate critical habitat at the
time the species is determined to be endangered or threatened unless
publishing the listing rule more promptly is essential to the
conservation of the species. Our implementing regulations (50 CFR
424.12(a)) state that the designation of critical habitat is not
prudent when one or both of the following situations exist: (1) the
species is threatened by taking or other human activity, and
identification of critical habitat can be expected to increase the
degree of threat to the species, or (2) such designation of critical
habitat would not be beneficial to the species.
We find that designating critical habitat is prudent for the Rota
bridled white-eye. Consistent with applicable regulations (50 CFR
424.12(a)(1)(i)) and recent case law, we do not expect that the
identification of critical habitat will increase the degree of threat
to this species of taking or other human activity. In the absence of a
finding that critical habitat would increase threats to a species, if
any benefits would result from critical habitat designation, then a
prudent finding is warranted. In the case of this species, some
benefits may result from designating critical habitat. The primary
regulatory effect of critical habitat is the section 7 requirement that
Federal agencies refrain from taking any action that destroys or
adversely modifies critical habitat. While a critical habitat
designation for habitat currently occupied by this species may not
change the section 7 consultation outcome because an action that
destroys or adversely modifies such critical habitat is also likely to
result in jeopardy to the species, in some instances a section 7
consultation would be triggered only if critical habitat is designated
(e.g., unoccupied habitat). Some educational or informational benefits
also may result from designation of critical habitat.
Section 4(b)(6)(C) of the Act states that the final critical
habitat designation shall be published with the final listing
determination unless ``(i) it is essential to the conservation of such
species that the regulation implementing such determination be promptly
published. * * *'' The Rota bridled white-eye has declined by
approximately 90% since 1982 and is currently threatened by one or more
of the following: habitat degradation or loss due to development,
agricultural activities, and naturally occurring events such as
typhoons; predation; and inadequate existing regulatory mechanisms. The
small population size and limited distribution make this species
particularly vulnerable to extinction from random environmental events.
Nearly all of our listing funds are being used to comply with court
orders and court-approved settlement agreements to complete listing
determinations or petition findings, we were unable to additionally
propose critical habitat with the proposal to list this species and the
final listing rule. We will develop a proposal to designate critical
habitat for the Rota bridled white-eye as soon as funding is available
and in accordance with other priority listing actions.

Available Conservation Measures

Conservation measures provided to endangered or threatened species
under the Act include recognition, recovery actions, requirements for
Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain practices.
Recognition through listing encourages and may result in conservation
actions by Federal, State, and local agencies, private organizations,
and individuals. The Act authorizes possible land acquisition and
cooperation with ``States,'' including the CNMI, and requires that
recovery plans be developed for all listed species. Funding is
available through section 6 of the Act for the CNMI to conduct recovery
activities. We discuss the protection required of Federal agencies and
the prohibitions against taking and harm for the Rota bridled white-eye
below.
Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, requires Federal agencies to
evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is proposed or
listed as endangered or threatened, and also with respect to its
critical habitat, if any is proposed or designated. Regulations
implementing this interagency cooperation provision of the Act are
codified at 50 CFR part 402. Section 7(a)(4) requires Federal agencies
to confer with us on any action that is likely to (a) jeopardize the
continued existence of a species proposed for listing or (b) result in
destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat. If a
species is listed, section 7(a)(2) requires Federal agencies to ensure
that activities they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to
jeopardize the continued existence of the listed species or destroy or
adversely modify its critical habitat. If a Federal action may affect a
listed species or its critical habitat, the

[[Page 3028]]

responsible Federal agency must enter into consultation with us, under
section 7(a)(2) of the Act.
Federal agency actions that may affect the Rota bridled white-eye
and may require consultation with us include, but are not limited to,
those within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, Federal Emergency Management
Agency, Federal Aviation Administration, and Federal Highway
Administration.
There are no federally owned lands on the island of Rota. Parts of
Rota have been used as, or are under consideration for use as, training
areas by U.S. armed forces. In the past, some military training has
occurred at the Rota airport and on Angyuta, an island near the
commercial port. Neither area is within the known range of the Rota
bridled white-eye. Federally supported activities that could affect the
Rota bridled white-eye or its habitat in the future include, but are
not limited to, low-altitude helicopter maneuvers, road construction
and improvements, and radio tower construction within areas occupied by
the Rota bridled white-eye.
Listing the Rota bridled white-eye necessitates the development and
implementation of a recovery plan for the species. This plan will bring
together Federal, Commonwealth, and regional agency efforts for
conservation of the species, and will also establish a framework for
agencies to coordinate their recovery efforts. It will set recovery
priorities and estimate the costs of the tasks necessary to accomplish
the priorities. It will also describe the site-specific management
actions necessary to achieve conservation and survival of the species.
The Act and implementing regulations found at 50 CFR 17.21 set
forth a series of general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to all
endangered wildlife. The prohibitions of section 9(a)(2) of the Act,
implemented by 50 CFR 17.21 for endangered species, make it illegal for
any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to take
(includes harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, or
collect; or attempt any of these), import or export, ship in interstate
commerce in the course of a commercial activity, or sell or offer for
sale in interstate or foreign commerce any listed species. It is also
illegal to possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, or ship any such
wildlife that has been taken illegally. Further, it is illegal for any
person to attempt to commit, to solicit another person to commit, or to
cause to be committed, any of these acts. Certain exceptions apply to
agents of the Service and CNMI conservation agencies.
Permits may be issued to allow people and groups to carry out
otherwise prohibited activities involving endangered wildlife under
certain circumstances. Regulations governing permits are codified at 50
CFR 17.22 and 17.23. Such permits are available for scientific
purposes, to enhance the propagation or survival of the species, and/or
for incidental take in the course of otherwise lawful activities.
Permits are also available for zoological exhibitions, educational
purposes, or special purposes consistent with the purposes of the Act.
Requests for copies of the regulations regarding listed wildlife and
inquiries about permits and prohibitions may be addressed to the
Service's Portland offices (see ADDRESSES and FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT sections).
It is our policy, as published in the Federal Register on July 1,
1994 (59 FR 34272), to identify to the maximum extent practicable at
the time a species is listed those activities that would or would not
likely be a violation of section 9 of the Act. The intent of this
policy is to increase public awareness of the effect of this listing on
proposed and ongoing activities within the range of the species. We
believe that permitted scientific activities or recreational activities
within forested areas that support populations of Rota bridled white-
eyes would not likely result in a violation of section 9.
Activities that we believe could potentially harm the Rota bridled
white-eye, and would likely violate section 9, include, but are not
limited to:
(1) Unauthorized collecting, handling, possessing, selling,
delivering, carrying, transporting, or shipping of the species;
(2) Intentional introduction of alien species that compete with or
prey on bird species, such as the introduction of the predatory brown
treesnake to islands that support bird populations; and
(3) Activities that disturb Rota bridled white-eyes and disrupt
nesting and foraging, and destruction or alteration of forested areas
required by the bridled white-eye for foraging, perching, breeding, or
rearing young.
Questions regarding whether specific activities will constitute a
violation of section 9 of the Act should be directed to the Field
Supervisor of the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see FOR
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section). Requests for copies of the
regulations regarding listed species and inquiries regarding
prohibitions and permits may be addressed to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, Endangered Species Permits, 911 NE 11th Avenue, Portland, OR
97232-4181 (503/231-2063; facsimile 503/231-6243).

National Environmental Policy Act

We have determined that an Environmental Impact Statement and
Environmental Assessment, as defined under the authority of the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, need not be prepared in
connection with regulations adopted pursuant to section 4(a) of the
Act. We published a notice outlining our reasons for this determination
in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).

References Cited

A complete list of all references cited in this rulemaking is
available upon request from the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife
Office (see ADDRESSES section).

Author

The primary author of this final rule is Fred Amidon, Biologist,
Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office (see ADDRESSES section).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.

Regulation Promulgation

? For reasons given in the preamble, we amend part 17, subchapter B of
chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set forth
below:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

? 1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C.
4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500, unless otherwise noted.

? 2. Amend ``17.11(h) by adding the following, in alphabetical order
under BIRDS, to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to read
as follows:

Sec. 17.11 Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
(h) * * *

[[Page 3029]]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Species Vertebrate population
----------------------------------------------------------- Historic range where endangered or Status When Critical Special
Common name Scientific name threatened listed habitat rules
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * * * *
Birds
* * * * * * *
White-eye, Rota bridled............ Zosterops rotensis... Western Pacific Ocean- Entire............... E 741 NA NA
U.S.A. (Commonwealth
of the Northern
Mariana Islands).
* * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dated: January 12, 2004.
Steve Williams,
Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 04-1297 Filed 1-21-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P

Notices For
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Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Status for the Rota Bridled White-Eye (Zosterops rotensis) From the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

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