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Show ecosystem. Eight species of amphibians, two species of turtles, nine species of lizards and eight species of snakes were identified in the biological resource inventory and study at the request of the Utah Legislature prior to 1976 ( Rawley et al., 1974). Some of these species occur on the islands in the lake. Locations and records of occurrence can be examined in The Great Salt Lake Biotic System ( Rawley et al., 1974). Mammals A total of six species or subspecies of mammals have been identified around the lake and on islands in the main body of the lake. Many of the species are rodents. Other species present include bats, rabbits, porcupines, coyotes, foxes, bobcats, mountain lions and deer. DPR and DWR have established antelope and California bighorn sheep on Antelope Island. Locations and records of occurrence can be examined in 77K? Great Salt Lake Biotic System ( Rawley etal., 1974). Birds Avifauna associated with the lake and its environs are abundant and diverse. Groups include waterbirds, shorebirds and marsh- associated songbirds. Over 250 different species have been identified. Several million birds use the lake area in spring, summer and fall migration. Some unique winter visitors occur in the area including one of the largest concentrations of Bald eagles in the 48 contiguous United States. The lake is of hemispheric importance to many populations of birds. Waterbirds on Great Salt Lake GSL has extensive populations of colonial waterbirds. These species can be found on the lands or marshes adjacent to the lake, or on the islands and dikes/ causeways within the lake. There are three primary habitat types utilized by these birds for nesting locations: shoreline playas, emergent vegetation and areas of woody vegetation. Habitat Relationships Shoreline Playas Some examples of ground nesters include California gulls, which nest on islands in the lake and on dikes or causeways that transect the lake. Egg Island and dikes at the IMC Kalium Ogden Corp. operation in Bear River Bay are sites for gull colonies. One of the world's largest nesting colonies of White pelicans occurs on Gunnison Island. This extremely remote island provides security from disturbance and predators. The pelicans fly from the island to forage for fish in the freshwater marshes and reservoirs, then return to bring food to the pod. Adult pelicans leave the pod between 18- 72 hours. Black- necked stilts and American avocets nest on mudflats and playas around the lake. These sites are adjacent to favored shallow water feeding areas. Snowy plovers select playas with little vegetation around the lake for nesting sites. Emergent Vegetation Birds which select the interface of open water areas and the beginning of the emergent vegetation ( such as bulrush species) of the exterior marshes include White- faced ibis, Franklin gulls and tern species, which are often found together 75 |