Approach Stable-isotopes: d 13 C, d 15 N, d D, etc.

1. Investigating novel colonization behaviour and long-range dispersal in American white pelicans Dr. Matt Reudink – postdoctoral fellow, Trent / OMNR E: mattreudink@gmail.com P: 705-755-2269 W: www.ontariopelicans.com Dr. Joe Nocera – Trent / OMNR Dr. Chris Kyle – Trent / OMNR Objectives: (a) create a biogeochemical and genetic map to track the movement of long-distance dispersers and (b) document a novel shift to oceanic breeding colony potential colonization pathway Ontario colonies Approach Stable-isotopes: d13C, d15N, dD, etc. - reflect diet / local water composition at location of tissue (e.g., feathers) growth Trace-elements: heavy metals, minerals - reflect underlying geology of local environment and anthropogenic influences Population genetics: microsatellites - reflect patterns of current and historic gene flow; provide insight into evolutionary history James Bay – near Akimiski First oceanic breeding attempt by American white pelicans Lake Nipigon ? Est. 1991. Large-scale die-off on Boles Island in 2008 Combined, these approaches enable us to create a biogeochemical and genetic “map” that we can use to assign colonizers/dispersers to source colonies ? Black Bay • Significance & Implications • We will provide researchers with a tool to track long-distance movements of migratory animals • Document a novel diet-shift from freshwater to oceanic breeding in northern James Bay • Predict movement patterns and range expansion under climate change scenarios Granite Island breeding in 2007 ? Lake Huron Reports of pelicans in the North Channel – breeding not yet confirmed • American white pelicans • provincially endangered colonial waterbirds • primarily inland freshwater breeders • capable of dispersing hundreds of kilometers • highly susceptible to large-scale die-offs / colony collapse Lake of the Woods Originally easternmost population of American white pelicans www.ontariopelicans.com Pelican photos: Scott Butner Lake Nipigon photo: Anders Nyman