[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]








                        Biological and Natural Community Analyses of Riparian
                  Communities Within the Coastal Zone of Kent County, Delaware
                                                       (Task No. 94-9)


                                                       FINAL REPORT





                                                          Submitted to:


                             DELAWARE COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM


                                                         February 1995



                                                                 by

                                          Delaware Natural Heritage Program
                                                Division of Fish and Wildlife
                         Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
                         4876 Haypoint Landing Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977, (302) 653-2880








                                                   Principle Investigators:

                                       Keith Clancy       ......................... Community Ecologist
                                       Christopher M. Heekscher             ....... Zoologist
                                       William McAvoy          .................... Botanist
                                       Avery Dalton       .......................... Data Manager


                                                                                                                          -9










                          Biological and Natural Community Analyses of Riparian
                    Communities Within the Coastal Zone of Kent County, Delaware
                                                         (Task No. 94-9)

                                                         FINAL REPORT





                                                            Submitted to:


                               DELAWARE COASTAL MANAGEMENT                                PROGRAM


                                                           February 1995




                                                                   by

                                            Delaware Natural Heritage Program
                                                 Division of Fish and Wildlife
                           Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control
                          4876 Haypoint Landing Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977, (302) 653-2880




         -S
        -j


                                                     Principle Investigators:

                                        Keith Clancy       ......................... Community Ecologist
                                        Christopher M. Heckscher              ....... Zoologist
                                        William McAvoy          .................... Botanist
                                        Avery Dalton       ......................... Data Manager










                                                   ACKNOWLEDGUYIENTS


                We would like to thank several individuals who have contributed to the collection of zoological,
                botanical and natural community information. Special thanks to Joseph McLaughlin for zoological
                inventory along the Choptank River, and to Harold B. White for assistance in identifying many
                Odonata species. Additional thanks go to Janet Ebert and Jack Holt for their rare plant surveys and
                natural community data collection. Thanks also go to R. Watson and Logan Miller, of the
                Delaware Solid Waste Authority for allowing access to their site along the Cow Marsh Branch,
                and to Dennis Ho, of Delaware's Department of Transportation for permission to survey Del DOT
                property along the Choptank River. A final thanks go to L. Miller for providing the color
                photograph reproduced as Fig. 11. Funding for this project was provided to the Delaware Natural
                Heritage Program by a grant from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration
                through the Delaware Coastal Management Program.





                       (BIOLOGICAL AND NATURAL COMMUNITY ANALYSES OF RIPARIAN
                  COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE COASTAL ZONE OF KENT COUNTY, DELAWARE


                                                         INTRODUCTION


                     The primary objective of this project was to undertake a biological and natural community
                 assessment of the riparian habitats along selected streams in Kent County, Delaware. The full
                 array of natural communities were assessed and described, and their quality noted. In addition,
                 surveys were undertaken to locate rare species of plants and select groups of animals, and to
                 identify any significant avian habitats. The results of this project provides up-to-date information
                 on the presence of State rare species and Federally listed threatened and endangered species in
                 riparian habitats, and provides locations and descriptions of the natural communities surveyed.
                 These data can be used in protection and conservation activities at the state and county level within
                 Kent County; in order to facilitate conservation activities, the data collected will be incoporated
                 into the Natural Heritage Program's database and will be entered into the Department of Natural
                 Resource's GIS System.

                    This report presents data from the second year of a two year study assessing the quality of
                 habitats found in Xent County (see Heckscher et al. 1994). The first year's (1992-93) study,
                 initially restricted to the coastal plain pond habitat (i.e. Delmarva Bays), was expanded to include
                 all habitat types, when it was discovered that many of the ponds in Kent County were degraded.


                                                             METHODS


                 Preliminary work involved a review of the DNHP database for previously conducted field work
                 in Kent County, including data from the 1992-93 study. These data were then used as an aid in
                 selecting survey sites for the 1994 field season. In addition, potential inventory sites were also
                 identified by reviewing United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps for Kent
                 County and by reviewing recent color infrared (CIR) aerial photography. These data and
                 information helped direct the DNHP staff into selecting study sites that were expected to yield
                 high quality habitats. Three river systems were chosen: (1) Choptank River; (2) St. Jones River;
                 and (3) Murderkill River.

                 Data for each site were recorded onto field forms; these data included habitat descriptions
                 (including notes on relative quality), natural community assessments, and presence of rare and
                 common species.

                 Natural Community/Botanical Inventories

                 Natural community assessments and descriptions were made by recording species compositions
                 in each habitat type, and determining the dominant species present in each stratum (tree, shrub,
                 herb). In those habitats that were deemed to be of sufficient quality, one or more plots (of varying
                 sizes) were established and each species' percent cover value was estimated. Names applied to the









                 natural communities described in this report, utilize the scientific names of one or more of the
                 dominant, or characteristic species in the community; in some cases, only general terminology is
                 used. After each "technical" name is a more general name. A brief description follows each
                 community name.

                 The natural communities herein described are primarily characterized by their vegetation, rather
                 than by edaphic or other physical or biological parameters. The botanical inventories, which
                 included searches for rare species, are linked to the natural community assessments. Therefore,
                 both the natural community and botanical survey components of this project are treated together.

                 Zoological Inventory

                 Zoological inventories were undertaken in similar fashion for all three study areas, focusing on
                 animal species which the DNHP currently tracks, excluding fish and mammals. Birds were
                 inventoried by sight and song while walking or boating through study areas. Select groups of
                 invertebrates (e.g. Lepidoptera, Anisoptera, and Zygoptera) were collected and identified with the
                 aid of a sweep net. Reptiles and amphibians were surveyed by visually inspecting different sites
                 within the river corridors (modification of the VES method, Crump and Scott, 1994). Survey
                 areas within the watersheds were visited at least once during the study period.

                 Species were assigned a B, M, or W depending on their breeding, migratory or wintering status,
                 respectively. Rare species (S 1 to S3) were considered element occurrences of conservation concern
                 if they were utilizing the river system for reproduction (i.e. breeding); these species are
                 highlighted (see appendices). Rare migratory and wintering species are normally not considered
                 element occurrences of conservation concern by the DNHP. A comprehensive species list with
                 respective state ranks is found in Appendix I.

                 Site specific information for rare species found during this project are available upon request (the
                 use of this information may be restricted).

                                                  RESULTS AND DISCUSSION


                 Natural Heritage biologists undertook biotic surveys in a variety of riparian habitats along the
                 Choptank, St. Jones and Murderkill Rivers in Kent County (see Kent County map insert); these
                 sites are described, in detail, below. Surveys were undertaken in Palustrine and Estuarine wetland
                 habitats which included hardwood swamps, scrub-shrub wetlands, tidal and non-tidal freshwater
                 marshes, brackish and salt marshes, and (occasionally) terrestrial forests. Natural communities are
                 classified (i.e. named and described) based on their dominant vegetation. Botanical and zoological
                 inventories focused on State rare and Federal listed species. Rare species, and their ranks, are
                 listed for each site where discovered. See Appendix 5 for definitions of state ranks. Property
                 ownership and protection status are listed for each site surveyed, as well as additional survey
                 needs. Apparent threats which might degrade the ecological quality of each site are discussed
                 where appropriate.


                                                                  2








                 Due to the extreme mobility of animals and the fact that they may have large territories and utilize
                 several habitat types, the zoological results will be presented in three separate sections at the end
                 of the results section for the St. Jones, Murderkill, and Choptank Rivers. Where appropriate
                                                                               4
                 habitat usage by animals will be discussed. An animal list is provided for each watershed.

                 Survey Sites


                 1. St. Jones Rive


                 Surveys were undertaken in areas along the St. Jones River, from the mouth of the Delaware Bay
                 upstream to the city of Dover, and in habitats along a number of tributaries of the St. Jones River
                 [e.g. Beaver Gut Ditch, Cypress Branch, Tidbury Creek (see Figs. 1-3)]. Good to excellent
                 quality tidal marshes were sampled from the mouth of the Delaware Bay upstream to Dover, while
                 swamp forests ranging from poor to excellent quality were surveyed along the minor tributaries.
                 In addition, several good quality, but small, terrestrial forests were surveyed.

                 L L Beaver Gut Ditch (Fig. 1):

                 SUE LOCATION/DESCRUMON: This narrow tributary is located just north of Magnolia and
                 extends in a northeast direction for almost two miles (from west of HWY 113A until it empties
                 into the St. Jones River just past RD 364). It consists of salt to brackish marshes, scrub-shrub
                 wetlands, palustrine forests, and narrow terrestrial hardwood forests (see below).

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:

                 0 Spartina alterniflora Saft Marsh [Smooth cordgrass salt marsh] - moderate quality.

                 A narrow tidal marsh dominated by Spartina altemiflora, with scattered colonies of S. patens, and
                 Phragmites australis. This marsh extends, in a narrow band on either side of Beaver Gut, for a
                 distance of approximately 1.0 km. Ivaftutescens thickets and small clumps of Distichlis spicata
                 are also present. Occasional individuals of Atriplex patula and Amaranthus cannabinus may be
                 found. Phragmites is more abundant in the upper reaches of this community, which grades into
                 a more diverse, but narrow brackish marsh (Peltandra colonies are more common here).

                 m Fagus grandifolia-Quercus alba-Liquidambar styraciflua Forest Association [beech-white
                 oak-sweet gum forest] - poor quality.

                 An extremely small upland hardwood forest adjacent to Beaver Gut is dominated by Fagus, with
                 lesser quantities of Quercus alba and Liquidambar. Additional species, in lesser numbers, include
                 Liriodendron, A@ssa, Juniperus virginiana, Carya sp., flex opaca, Quercus rubra, Prunus
                 serotina, Gaylussacia ftondosa, Rhododendron sp., and Smilax rotundifolia. The herbaceous
                 stratum was extremely sparse and included Epifagus virginiana. Most of this woodland tract
                 experienced damage from the 1994 ice storm (many of the large beech trees had limbs and tree

                                                                   3








                 tops broken-off). Primarily because of the small size of this upland forest, it is designated as poor
                 quality.

                 0 Acer rubrum Streamside Forest Association [red maple swamp] - poor to moderate quality.

                 The upper end of Beaver Gut grades into a palustrine hardwood swamp forest dominated by Acer
                 rubrum (ca. 60-70% cover). Less abundant trees and shrubs include Nyssa sylvatica, Magnolia
                 virginiana, Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Clethra alnifolia, Lindera benzoin, Viburnum dentata var.
                 lucida, Itea virginica, Ilex opaca, - L verticillata, and Vaccinium corymbosum. Herbs include
                 Impatiens capensis, Dioscorea villosa, Woodwardia areolata (frequent), Boehmeria cylindrica,
                 Sambucus canadensis, Decodon verticillatus, Symplocarpusfoetidus, Cuscuta sp., and Mitchella
                 repens. Woody vines include Smilax rotundifolia, Toxicodendron radicans, Parthenocissus, Rubus
                 sp., and Vitis rotundifolia. Several weedy taxa are also present: e.g. Rosa multiflora, Lonicera
                 japonica (dense in some areas)," Polygonum pensylvanicum, and Ailanthus altissima (near road).

                 Overall, this swamp forest is rather disturbed (as evidenced by the weedy species). The upland
                 buffer on the north side is practically absent and it is very limited on the south side.

                 Rare Plants discovered along Beaver Gut Ditch:

                 No plants of Special Concern were observed along Beaver Gut Ditch.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/current protection is limited to regulations
                 related to tidal wetlands.


                 THREATS: Eutrophication from surrounding agricultural run-off; urban development.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: North side of the stream near mouth of stream.


                 1.2. Cypress Branch (Fig. 1):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRIPTION: This stream is located immediately north of Beaver Gut,
                 and also flows in a northeast direction to the St. Jones River. Surveys were undertaken primarily
                 in the palustrine forests located between RD 363 and Hwy 113A. The habitats associated with this
                 stream corridor are very similar to those found along the Beaver Gut Ditch. The headwaters of
                 Cypress Branch consists of narrow palustrine forests with virtually no vegetated buffers to the
                 wetlands. West of Hwy 113A, a substantial housing development is located on either side of the
                 stream with houses built right to the border of the wetland. The Cypress Branch is included within
                 the core boudaries of the St. Jones River National Estuarine Research Reserve System.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventoriza:

                    Acer rubrum Swamp Forest Association [red maple swamp] - moderately good quality.

                                                                   4








                 A red maple-dominated swamp forest is located in the headwaters of the Cypress Branch (above
                 Cypress Pond). Other woody species include Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Chamaecyparis thyoides,
                 Nyssa sylvatica, Liquidambar, Ilex opaca, Clethra, Itea virginica, Diospyros virginiana,
                 Leucothoe racemosa, Hex verticillata, Magnolia virginiana, Rhododendron viscoswn,
                 Toxicodendron radicans, and Lonicerajaponica. The herbaceous stratum is relatively diverse and
                 includes such species as Arisaema triphyllwn, Symplocarpusfoetidus, Mitchella repens, Impatiens
                 capensis, Liliwn superbwn, Helonias bullata, Boehmeria cylindrica, Iris versicolor, Lycopus sp.,
                 Viola cucullata, Decodon verticillatus, Peltandra virginica, and Carex spp.

                 Downstream from this community, in the salt marsh on both the east and west sides of RD 363,
                 are found numerous standing dead Atlantic white cedar trees. Previously, this area of the Cypress*
                 Branch consisted of extensive white cedar swamp, but now consists of salt marsh. The increased
                 salinity levels are possibly a result of several factors (e.g. sea-level rise, stream deeping/
                 channelization, and major storm events). A major hurricane struck Delaware's coastline in 1878
                 and may be the cause of Atlantic white cedar loss here.

                   Green cypress is another common name for Chamaecyparis thyoides (Atlantic white cedar)

                    Acer rubrum-Clethra alnifolia-Rosa palustris Scrub-Shrub Wetland [mixed scrub-shrub
                 marsh] - good quality.

                 This community is located in the transitional zone between hardwood swamp forest and open
                 emergent tidal marsh and is floristically quite diverse. Shrubs present in this community include
                 Acer rubrum, Clethra alnifolia, Rhododendron -viscoswn, Vaccinium corymbosum, Rosa palustris,
                 Magnolia virginiana, Myrica cerifera, Alnus serrulata, and Wburnwn sp. The herb layer is also
                 diverse and consists of such species as Aster sp., Ifis versicolor, Decodon verticillatus, Boehmeria
                 cylindrica, Sagittaria latifolia, Impatiens capensis, Sambucus canadensis, Peltandra virginica,
                 Pontederia cordata, Nuphar lutea, Nymphaea odorata, Eleocharis spp., Hypericwn virginicwn,
                 Osmunda cinnamomea, 0. regalis, and nalictnan pubescens.

                 0 Spartina alterniflora Salt Marsh [cordgrass salt marsh] - good quality.

                 Downstream from the scrub-shrub swamp occurs a relatively good quality cordgrass marsh
                 dominated by S. alterniflora, with small inclusion stands of Phragmites australis (not extensive
                 here). Other species present, but in low numbers, include S. patens, S. cynosuroides, Distichlis
                 spicata, Schoenoplectus robustus, Atriplex patula, Rwne-x verticillatus, Iva ftwescens, and
                 Baccharis halamifolia. As mentioned above snags of Atlantic white cedar are frequent in this
                 marsh, testimony to this habitat's former forested status.

                 E Mixed Quercus spp.-Pinus taeda Forest Association [oak-pine forest] - poor to moderate
                 quality.

                 This terrestrial community occurs as a very narrow buffer along the wetlands associated with the

                                                                   5








                 Cypress Branch and expands into a larger forest tract along the north side and upper end of the
                 branch. It is characterized by a mixture of hardwoods and pines and ranges from immature,
                 second growth to mature woodland. In addition to the oaks (Q. alba, Q. falcata, Q. rubra) and
                 P. taeda, other species present include Sassaftas, Prunus serotina, Liquidambar, Nyssa, Pinus
                 virginiana, Nyssa sylvatica, Acer rubn4m, Ilex opaca, Vaccinium spp., C@pripediwn acaule,
                 Yipularia discolor, Chimaphila maculata, and Carex sp.

                 Rare Plants discovered along Cypress Branch:

                 Several rare plants were discovered along the Cypress Branch:

                 Chamaecyparis thyoides                      S3             Atlantic white cedar
                 Helonias bullata                            S3, LT         swamp pink

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/current protection is limited to regulations
                 related to tidal wetlands.


                 THREATS: Agricultural run-off; urban sprawl.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: The oligohaline marshes of the upper end, as well as
                 additional surveys are needed in the swamp and terrestrial forests.

                 1.3. Tidbury Creek (Fig. 2):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRIMON: Surveys of this tributary were undertaken from just west
                 of Hwy 113A downstream to the mouth of the St. Jones River. The oligohaline tidal marshes were
                 of good quality and relatively diverse. Grasses, sedges, smartweeds, and jewelweeds (to name a
                 few) were common on hummocks in the muck. Further shoreward the open, emergent marsh,
                 becomes more of a scrub-shrub marsh, while downstream the oligohaline marsh grades into a
                 brackish/salt marsh with an abundance of Spartina alterniflora.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                 0 Peftwdra Wiginica-Pontedefia conlaid Emergent Marsh [arrow arum-pickerel weed marsh]
                 - good quality.

                 Peltandra virginica was dominant in the low-lying regularly tidal zones, with lesser amounts of
                 Pontederia cordata and Nuphar lutea. This community association is of low floristic diversity.

                 m Impatiens capensis-Amaranthus cannabinus-Polygonum punctatunt Marsh Association
                 Uewelweed-water hemp-smartweed marsh] - good quality.

                 A diverse, herbaceous marsh dominated by the above three species but also including a wide array

                                                                6








                 of species including 7halictrum pubescens, Boehmeria cylindrica, Pilea pumila, Agrostis
                 perennans, 77zelypterispalustfis, Lobelia cartfinalis, Bidensfirondosa, Apios ameficana, Saururus
                 cernuus, Hibiscus moscheutos, Scutellafia latefiflora, 0smunda regalis, Onoclea sensibilis,
                 Cuscuta gronovii, Leersia oryzoides, Ptilimnium capillecewn, Sium suave, Elymus virginicus,
                 Phalaris arundinacea, Asclepias incarnata, and Carex spp. Further shore-ward more woody
                 species are present, and this community intergrades into the following community.

                 0 Acer rubrum-Clethra alnifolia-Rosa palustfis Scrub-Shrub Wetland [mixed scrub-shrub
                 marsh] - good quality.

                 This scrubby habitat, located along the edge of the streamside forest, contains a diverse
                 assemblage of woody species with Acer rubrwn, Magnolia virginiana, and Rosa palustils
                 especially common. Other woody species include Clethra aln@folia, Toxicodendron radicans, Rex
                 spp., Nyssa sylvatica, and Viburnum dentata var. lucida. The herb stratum is also diverse and
                 includes the same species as noted in the previous community. This community type is also very
                 similar to the community found along Cypress Branch (see above).

                 0 Spanina aftemiflora Salt Marsh [cordgrass saft marsh] - good quality.

                 This low diversity marsh  occurs near the mouth of Tidbury Creek and extends a short distance
                 upstream where it intergrades into a freshwater marsh. The salt marsh is primarily comprised of
                   rd grass, with lesser amounts of Spartina patens, Atriplex patula, Phragmites australis
                 Distichlis spicata, Baccharis halimifolia, and Iva ftutescens. West of RD 356A, where the marsh
                 co

                 is less brackish, additional species such as Kosteletzkya virginica, Hibiscus moscheutos,
                 .4inaramhus cannabinus, Thelypterispalustris, Schoenoplectus robustus, Ptilimniwn capillaceum,
                 Asclepias incarnata, and 7@pha angustifolia are present.

                 Rare Plants discovered along TidbuU C

                 No plants of Special Concern were observed in areas surveyed along Tidbury Creek.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: County and private/current protection is limited to
                 regulations related to tidal wetlands. Part of Tidbury Creek is found within the boundaries of
                 Tidbury Creek County Park.

                 THREATS: Pollution from runoff-, further logging of uplands; urban sprawl.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: More surveys could be undertaken in the marshes in the
                 upper reaches of Tidbury Creek.

                 1.4. Lower St. Jones River (Fig. 3):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRII'TION: Surveys were unde              rtaken from near the river's mouth,

                                                                 7








                 upstream to Barker's Landing. This area encompasses a vast contiguous, low diversity, Spartina
                 altendflora salt marsh community. The marsh in the lower portion of this River (within 1.5 miles
                 of the Bay) has undergone channelization and extensive grid-ditching for purposes of mosquito
                 control. Both the tall and short forms of S. altemiflora are present, with the latter dominant
                 throughout the marsh. Near the Delaware Bay the marsh has undergone some open marsh water
                 management (OMWAM) activities, and several dikes have been established. Throughout the
                 Lower St. Jones River Estuary, little or no buffers are present; in some areas farming extends to
                 the marsh's edge, as does a golf course located on Dover Air Force Base property. Occasional,
                 narrow terrestrial mixed, or hardwood forest communities occur adjacent to the St. Jones estuary;
                 these are typically of poor quality and were not surveyed in any detail.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:

                 0 Spartina altemiflora Salt Marsh [cordgrass saltmarshl - fair to good qaulity.

                 A salt marsh dominated by the short form of the smooth cordgrass, S. alterniflora; the tall form
                 is usually present along the lower slopes of tidal guts and along the grid ditches. Other less
                 abundant species in this community include baftwescens, Baccharis halim@fblia, Spartina patens,
                 Distichlis spicata, Spartina cynosuroides, Attiplex patula, Schoenoplectus robustus, Phragmites
                 australis, and Salicornia sp. Phragmites occurs in small, scattered colonies and does not appear
                 to be too much of a nuisance; it usually appears in areas that have been disturbed (e.g. along roads
                 and adjacent to bridges).

                 Rare Plants discovered in the Lower St. Jones Riv


                 No plants of Special Concern were observed during surveys of the Lower St. Jones River.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: County, State and private/protection is afforded a
                 portion of the NERRs site along this stretch of the River and the Little Creek Wildlife Area near
                 the Delaware Bay; in addition, all of this area is tidal and thus afforded protection through tidal
                 wetlands regulations (though these reglations do not protect wetlands from impacts from non-point
                 source pollutants).

                 THREATS: Pollution from runoff (in many areas agricultural fields end at the edge of the
                 marsh); further logging of uplands; urban sprawl.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: More surveys are needed in the marshes of the St. Jones

                 Zoological Inventori :

                 The St. Jones watershed provides crucial feeding areas for many resident and migratory wetland-
                 associated birds including the Great egret (SI), Snowy egret (SI) Glossy ibis (SIB) Great blue
                 heron (S2), and Northern harrier (SIB, S3N). The ecological integrity of the salt, brackish and

                                                                   8








                 freshwater marshes are crucial to maintain in order to provide long-term protection to these
                 species during migration and the nesting season. The upper portions of the watershed include
                 freshwater tidal marshes surrounded by palustrine and upland hardwood forests. However, buffers
                 here are minimal and their loss likely has proved detrimental to the native fauna diversity in these
                 regions. Nevertheless, they remain crucial to the natural functioning of the upper St. Jones River.
                 Surrounding palustrine and upland forest should be protected and restored. Further degradation
                 of these forests and buffers will decrease the natural ecological functioning of the St. Jones
                 Estuary.

                 The brackish marshes within the watershed support cover, feeding areas and breeding sites for
                 many vertebrate and invertebrate species. Additionally, these marshes are crucial to migratory
                 species of butterflies which depend on these wetlands (Appendix 2).
                 The saltmarshes and mud flats associated with the St. Jones River (as well as the Murderkill
                 River, see below) provide foraging areas for numerous bird species including crucial migratory
                 bird foraging areas. Some species are strictly associated with the open sandy beaches along the
                 mouth of the river. Indeed this is a globatly signWicant foraging site for migratory shorebirds
                 (e.g. red knots, sanderlings, dunlins, ruddy turnstones, sernipalmated sandpipers). Protecting this
                 site from surrounding land development as well as recreationists, should be addressed
                 immediately. Additional rare species found at the mouth of the St. Jones, include the Black
                 Sldmmer (SIB). This species was found in large numbers during portions of the nesting season,
                 and likely nested here.

                 In addition to the sandy beaches along the river, there were other significant discoveries. A pair
                 of Bald eagles (SIB, LT) attempted to nest, in the vicinity of Lebanon. It is unknown whether
                 these birds ever produced eggs. However, it is known that they eventually abandoned the nest,
                 yet the pair continued to roost and feed along the St. Jones. It was noted that the open marshes
                 provided crucial nesting habitat for the Coastal plain swamp sparrow (S3B), a taxon endemic to
                 the mid-Atlantic tidal marshes. While these open marshes regularly provided nesting territories
                 of Northern Harriers (SIB), none were observed during the 1994 nesting season. The reason for
                 the sudden disappearance of this species is unknown, however, the potential exists for the harrier
                 to return as an important predator and a regular nesting species. See Appendix 2 for a complete
                 list of animal species observed in the St. Jones River watershed.


                 H. MurderkUl River


                 Biotic inventories of the Murderkill River Estuary were undertaken in habitats from the mouth of
                 the Murderkill at Delaware Bay upstream to west of Hwy 13, along second and third order
                 tributaries (e.g. along Ash Gut, Browns Branch, Black Swamp Creek, Spring Branch, Beaver
                 Ditch and in the Big Cripple Swamp). Much of the habitat surveyed proved to be very difficult
                 to traverse as numerous limbs and "snapped" tree tops were scattered throughout, and the substrate
                 consisted of soft deep muck interspersed by hummocks often too far apart to allow for easy
                 movement. The palustrine forests were comprised primarily of red maple-green ash canopies with
                 diverse understories, and are of relatively good quality.

                                                                  9









                 11.1. Ash Gut (Fig. 4):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRIMON: Ash Gut was surveyed from RD 35 to the mouth of the
                 Murderkill River. Habitats along this tributary include hardwood swamp forests, extremely narrow
                 upland hardwood forests, scrub-shrub wetlands and emergent marshes near the tributary's mouth.
                 Much of the forest was damaged from the recent ice storm.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                 0 Acer rubrum. Swamp Forest [red maple swamp] - fair quality.

                 An Acer rubrum-dominated swamp with scattered individuals of Fraxinus pennsylvanica, and
                 Liquidambar styraci(lua. Lifiodendron and Prunus serotina occurs along the wetland's edge. Other
                 woody and herbaceous species encountered include Clethra (abundant), Lindera benzoin, Smilax
                 rotundifolia, Rhododendron viscosum, Sambucus, Symplocarpusfoetidus (extremely abundant;
                 + 80 % cover in areas), Woodwardia areolata, Osmunda cinnamomea, 0. regalis, Peltandra
                 iftinica, Fragaria sp., Viola sp., Impatiens capensis, Boehmeria, Arisaema triphyllum, Athyrium
                 filix-femina, Glechoma hederacea, and Carex spp. Throughout most of this forest there is only
                 ca. 40% total cover value due to the abundant downed trees and broken tree limbs. The extremely
                 abundant Symplocarpus may have developed in response to an opening-up of the canopy.

                 N Acer rubrumlCornus amomum-Alnus serrulata Strearnside Scrub Wetland [red maple-
                 ash/dogwood-alder scrub wetland] - excellent quality.

                 An extensive, narrow, strearnside scrub wetland occurs along either side of Ash Gut as one
                 approaches its mouth (also see community description below). This natural community occurs as
                 a narrow band along the water's edge and is dominated by Acer rubrwn and Fraxinus
                 penn.sylvanica in the low canopy (15-20' in height), although the Fraxinus occurs less frequently
                 here than further downstream. This tidally influenced community is extremely diverse and is
                 comprised of Magnolia virginiana, Clethra alnifolia, Itea virginica, Rosa palustris, Viburnum
                 nudum, V. prunii/blium, Ile-x verticillata, Rhododendron viscosum, Vacciniwn corymbosum,
                 Asclepias incarnata var. pulchra, Apios americana, 0smunda regalis, 7hetypteris palustris,
                 77zalictri,an pubescens, Hibiscus moscheutos, Aster spp., Carex comosa, C lacustris, Lobelia
                 cardinalis, Ins versicolor, Bidens laeWs, Schoenoplectus spp., and hlyperician virginicum, to name
                 a few. Virtually identical to community type found along Browns Branch and elsewhere along the
                 Murderkill River.


                 m Pe&andra Wrginica-Nuphar lutea Emergent Alarsh [arrow arum-spatterdock marsh] - good
                 quality.

                 An emergent non-persistent plant association found in the upper portions of Ash Gut. This
                 community is generally of very low diversity and is found in the lower portions of the tidal marsh
                 (in freshwater).


                                                                 10










                 Rare Plants discovered along Ash Gu

                 No plants of Special Concern were observed during surveys of the Ash Gut.

                 OWNERSHILP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/current protection is limited to regulations
                 related to tidal wetlands.


                 THREATS: Pollution from runoff;, further logging of uplands; urban sprawl.

                 ADDMONALSURV            EY NEEDS: Upstream along Ash Gut and an unnamed tributary west of
                 RD 35.


                 H.2. Browns Branch/Big Cripple Swamp (Fig. 5):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRUMON: Browns Branch was surveyed from the mouth of the
                 Murderkill River upstream to below McCauley Pond, and also above McCauley Pond (Fig. 5a).
                 The habitats surveyed consisted of medium-high quality hardwood swamp forests, scrub-shrub
                 wetlands, and emergent marshes. The swamp forest experienced extensive damage caused by the
                 1994 winter ice storm; numerous broken tree limbs and snapped tree tops were strewn throughout
                 the swamp.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical InventorieS:


                 m Acer rubrum-Fraxinus pennsylvanica Swamp Forest [red maple-green ash swamp] -
                 excellent quality.

                 A diverse floodplain fresh tidal swamp forest dominated by maple and ash, with scattered Nyssa
                 sylvatica, and Magnolia virginiana. The woody understory is comprised of Clethra alnifolia, Rosa
                 palustris, Cornus anionzion, Alnus serrulata, Itea virginica, Toxicodendron radicans, Lindera
                 benzoin, Vacciniurn corymbosion, Leucothoe racemosa, Viburnion dentata var. lucida, Magnolia
                 virginiana, and Ilex opaca. The herb stratum is also diverse and consists of Imaptiens capensis,
                 Boehnieria cylindrica, Leersia virginica, Ifis versicolor, Cicuta maculara, Lilizan superbion, Carex
                 seorsa, Sium suave, Potygonum arifoliwn, Osmunda regalis, Thalictrian pubescens, Peltandra
                 virginica, Carex gynandra, C comosa, C. lupulina, C straminea, C folliculata, Afisaema
                 ttiphyllion, Platanthera clavellata, Viola cf. cucullata. The vegetation occurs primarily on
                 hummocks surrounded by tidal muck.

                 E Acer rubrum-Liquidamabar styraciflua Swamp Forest [red maple-sweet gum swamp] - good
                 to excellent quality.

                 This community is nearly identical to the previous type, and consists of a similar species
                 composition, but with a preponderance of Liquidwnbar rather than Fraxinus in the canopy.








                 Further upstream (above McCauley Pond) there appears to be a greater floristic diversity with the
                 fOUOwing woody species typically found: Acer, Liquidambar, Liriodendron, Fraxinus americana,
                 Carpinus caroliniana, Nyssa sylvatica, Rex opca, Prunus serotina, Cornusflorida, Betula nigra,
                 Quercus michauxii, Q. phellos, Clethra, Lindera benzoin, Viburnum dentata var. lucidum, Rosa
                    Itiflora, Smilax spp., Toxicodendron radicans, Itea virginica, Magnolia virginiana, Aralia
                 spinosa, Hex verticillata, Lonicera japonica, Aronia arbutifolia, and Cornus amomum, among
                 mu

                 others. The herbaceous layer is diverse, comprised of dozens of species, including typical wetland
                 species such as Afisaema triphyllum, Impatiens capensis, Boehmeria cylindrica, Botrychium
                 dissectum, 7@pha latifolia, Ranunculus recurvatus, Smilax herbacea, C@perus strigosus, Alisma
                 cordatum, Carex spp., Mikania scandens, Onoclea sensibilis, Woodwardia areolata, Osmunda
                 cinnamomea, 0. regalis, Mitchella repems, and Saururus cernuus. Much damage from 1994
                 winter ice storm was observed.


                 0 Fraxinus pennsylvanicalComus amomum-Alnus sen-ulata Strearnside Scrub Wetland [ash-
                 dogwood-alder scrub wetland] - excellent quality.

                 An extensive, narrow, streamside scrub wedand occurs on.either side of the Browns Branch from
                 below McCauley Pond to the mouth of the Murderldll River (this community also occurs along
                 the Murderkill east and west of Browns Branch). This natural community occurs as a narrow band
                 along the water's edge and is dominated by Fraxinus pennsylvanica and Acer rubrum in the low
                 canopy (15-20' in height); Fraxinus may be the sole representative in the canopy along some
                 stretches. This tidally influenced community is extremely diverse and is comprised of additional
                 species such as Quercus bicolor, Alnus maritima, Lyonia ligustrina, Magnolia virginiana, Clethra
                 alnifolia, Rosa palustris, Viburnum nudum, V. pruniffiblium, Ilex verticillata, Asclepias incarnata
                 var. pulchra, Acorus calamus, Amaranthus cannabinus, Zizania aquatica, Hibiscus moscheutos,
                 Kosteletzyka virginica, Aster spp., Carex comosa, C lacustris, Lobelia cardinalis, Bidens laevis,
                 Schoenoplectus spp., and Triadenum walteri.

                 a Taxodium distichumlAcer rubrum Floodplain Swamp Forest [bald cypress swamp] - good
                 quality.

                 A small inclusion community (< 1 acre), but highly significant due to the fact that this site is one
                 of the two most northern, naturally occurring populations of bald cypress in North America.
                 Taxodium is the dominant canopy tree (60-70' in height), with Acer rubrum and Nyssa sylvatica
                 in the sub-canopy. The understory consists of species found throughout the Murderldll swamp
                 forests and include Aronia arbutifolia, Whurnun dentata var. lucida, Vaccinium corymbosum,
                 Clethra alnifolia, Leucothoe, Rhododendron viscosum, Rosa palustris, Itea virginica, Ile-x spp.,
                 Cornus amomum, Smilax rotundifolia, Toxicodendron radicans, Arisaema triphyllum, Lilium
                 superbum, Lobelia cardinalis, Impatiens capensis, Iris versicolor, Ocuta maculata, Boehmeria
                 cylindrica, Lycopus sp., Osmunda spp., Sium suave, Thalictrum pubescens, and Thelypteris
                 palustris, to name a few.




                                                                  12








                Rare Plants discovered along  Browns Branch/Big Cripple Swamil:

                Carex gynandra                              S2                    a sedge
                Carex lacustris                             S1                    lake sedge
                Dryoptefis ctistata                         S2                    crested shield-fern
                Taxodium distichwn                          S2                    bald cypress

                OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently not protected except for that portion
                under tidal regulations.

                THREATS: Pollution from runoff-, further logging of uplands; urban sprawl.

                ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: There is a significant amount of high quality, tidal swamp
                forest (Big Cripple Swamp) that was incompletely surveyed and needs to be thoroughly surveyed
                in the near future; also much of the headwaters of Browns Branch need to be surveyed (though
                much of this area consists of very narrow stream corridors).

                11.3. Black Swamp Creek (Fig. 6):

                A small stretch of Black Swamp Creek was surveyed from Hwy 13 west to RD 284. Habitats
                consisted of mixed hardwood swamp forests and young second growth oak-pine uplands. Many
                of the trees along this creek had been damaged by the winter ice storm of 1994. An assemblage
                of rare species were discovered along this stretch (see below).

                Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                0 Quercus alba-Q. michauxii Floodplain Forest Association [oak swamp forest] - excellent
                quality; little disturbed.

                A rather uncommon natural community association with Quercus alba and Q. michaurii as co-
                dominant canopy species. Some rather impressive-sized oaks, several with dbhs > 36." The
                understory consists of Acer, Liquidwnbar, Carpinus caroliniana, Clethra alnifolia, Lindera
                benzoin, Toxicodendron radicans, flex opaca, Onna arundinacea, Osmunda regalis, 0.
                cinnamomea, Mitchella repens, Liliwn superbwn, Pilea pwnila, Peltandra virginica, Carex spp.,
                and Amianthwn muscatoxicewn. This natural community is small in size and grades into the more
                common community described next.

                N Acer rubrum-Liquidambar styracWua-Fraxinus americana Swamp Forest [maple-gum-ash
                swamp] - good quality.

                In addition to the above three species, the tree stratum is comprised of Liriodendron, Magnolia
                virginiana, Carpinus caroliniana, Quercus phellos, Q. palustris, Betula nigra, Diospyros
                virginiana, flex opaca, Prunus serotina, and Chionanthus virginicus. The understory shrubs and

                                                               13










                 vines consist of Clethra alnifolia, Alnus serrulata, Lindera benzoin, Leucothoe racemosa, Ilex
                 vertcillata, Vaccium corymbosum, Viburnum nudum, V. dentata var. lucida, Aronia arbutifolia,
                 Cornis amomum, Rhododendron viscosum, Rosa palustris, Corylus americana, Parthenocissus,
                 Campsis radicans, Toxicodendron radicans, Lonicera japonica, Vitis sp., Smilax spp., and
                 Dioscorea villosa. The herbaceous layer is extremely diverse, consisting of too many species to
                 list here, but those most frequently encountered include Osmunda regalis, Saururus cernuus,
                 Onoclea sensibilis, 0smunda cinnamomea, Athyrium filix-femina, Impatiens capensis, Arisaema
                 triphyllum, Lilium superbum, Thalictrium pubescens, Thelypterus palustris, Symplocarpus foetidus, 
                 Mitchella repens, Carex spp., Oxypolis rigidior, Woodwardia areolata, Iris versicolor, Lobelia
                 cardinalis, and Viola spp.

                 This community type may also be found from east of Hwy 13 to Killens Pond State Park (see
                 below).

                 Rare Plants discovered along Black Swamp Creek:

                 The following plants of Special Concern have been located in habitats associated with Black
                 Swamp Creek:

                 Swamp Forest:

                 Amianthium muscaetoxicum                   S2                    fly-poison
                 Quercus bicolor                            S2                    swamp white oak
                 Smilax pseudochina                         S2                    long-stalked greenbrier
                 Toxicodendron vernix                       S3                    poison sumac

                 Terrestrial Oak-Pine Forests:


                 Chimaphila umbellata                       S2                    wintergreen 
                 Deschampsia flexuosa                       S2                    crinkled hairgrass
                 Lechea villosa                             S2                    hairy pinweed
                 Paronychia canadensis                      S3                    forked chickweed


                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: private/not protected. 
                 THREATS: Additional logging, agricultural run-off; urban sprawl.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: The entire length of Black Swamp Creek west of RD 284
                 should be surveyed.

                 II.4 Murderkill River/Killens Pond State Park (Fig. 7):



                                                               14








                 This site extends from Hwy 13 east to Coursey Pond and includes exceptionally good quality
                 hardwood swamp forests along the Murderkill and good to poor quality terrestrial forest
                 communities.


                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                   Acer rubrum-Liquidambar styraciflua Swamp Forest Association - excellent quality.

                 An association very similar, if not identical, to the community that occurs west of Hwy 13 (along
                 Black Swamp Creek); see above. However, in this stretch of the Murderkill (west of Killens Pond
                 and east of Hwy 13), Fraxinus americana is less common and Carpinus caroliniana is an abundant
                 element of the understory. See above for species composition (similar). Additional species found
                 here but not along Black Swamp Creek include the Federally Threatened swamp pink, Helonias
                 bullata (S3), the rare sedge, Carex collinsii, and several individuals of bald cypress, Taxodium
                 distichum (S2); the latter species appears to have been planted.

                   Quercus alba-Liquidambar styrac&?ua-Litiodendron tuhpifera Forest Association [white oak-
                 sweet gum-poplar forest] - good quality.

                 A terrestrial forest surveyed on the south side of the Murderkill which occurs above the floodplain
                 forest. Other woody species here include Quercusfalcata, Q. coccinea, Q. marilandica, Cornus
                 florida, Pinus taeda, P. virginiana, Carya tomentosa, Sassafras albidum, Magnolia virginiana,
                 Acer rubnan, flex opaca, Vaccinium stamineum, V. cL vacillans, Viburnum dentata var. lucida,
                 Amelanchier cf. arborea, Prwuis serotina, Witis ratundifolia, Aralia spinosa, Kalmia angustifiblia,
                 and Smilax rotundifolia. The herbaceous layer is quite sparse, but includes C@pripedium acaule,
                 Tipularia discolor, and Mitchella repens.

                 0 Acer rubrum-Fraxinus pennsylvanica Swamp Forest [maple-ash swamp] - fair quality.

                 This community occurs between Killens and Coursey Ponds and is characterized by the presence
                 of Acer and Fraxinus as co-dominants, with scattered Liquidambar styraciflua (50-60 % canopy
                 cover). Much winter storm damage was evident by the numerous downed trees and broken limbs.
                 The understory consists of Clethra, Lindera and Vaccinium corymbosum as nearly codominant
                 shrubs. Other common woody species and herbs include Vibunuon spp., Rex opaca, I. verticillata,
                 Carpinus, Saururus (abundant), Boehmeria, Arisaema, Cicuta maculata, Impatiens, Sphagnum
                 sp., Peltandra, Ludwigia palustris, Carex spp., Gaultheria procumbens, Symplocarpus foetidus,
                 Woodwardia areolata, W. virginica, and Viola sp.

                 0 Mixed Herbaceous Freshwater Marsh - good quality.

                 A diverse, freshwater marsh occurs on either side of the Murderkill River, just west of Coursey
                 Pond. This marsh contains the following species: Alnus serrulata, Rosa palustris, Salix sp.,
                 Clethra, Acer rubn4m, Quercus palustris, Cephalanthus, Cornus amomum, Carex stricta

                                                                 15








                 (abundant), Betula sp., Sagittaria latifolia, Peltandra, Leersia oryzoidnes, Boehmeria cylindrica,
                 Decodon, Saururus, Juncus effusus, Galiwn sp., Onoclea sensibilis, Iris versicolor, Hydrocotyle,
                 Cuscuta sp., Polygonwn sp., and 0smunda regalis.

                 0 Fagus gmndjfoUa-,Ufiodendmn tufiptfem Terrestrial Forest [beech-tulip poplar woods] -
                 good quality.

                 On the south side of the Murderkill and west of Coursey Pond occurs a relatively good quality
                 mature beech-poplar woods; some portions of this woods were previously logged (in the last 20
                 years). Additional speci@s here include Quercusfalcata, Q. alba, Q. cf. prinus, Pinus taeda, P.
                 Wrginiana, Carya tomentosa, Rex opaca, Euonymus americanus, Magnolia virginiana, Epigaea
                 repens, Chimaphila maculata, Tipularia discolor, Lycopodiwn sp., and C@pripediwn acaule.

                 Rare Plants discovered alone Murderkill Riyer/Killens Pond State Par


                 Swamp Fores :

                 Carex collinsii                               S3                     Collin's sedge
                 Helonias bullata                              S3, LT                 swamp pink


                 Terrestrial Habitats:


                 Helianthemum propinquwn                       S2                     low frostweed
                 Kalmia angustifolia                           S2                     sheep laurel
                 Lupinus perennis                              S1                     blue lupine

                 OWNERSHIENPROTECTION STATUS: Private and State/State Park portion relatively well
                 protected, while private holdings are not protected.

                 THREATS: Logging of terrestrial and palustrine forests on private lands, agricultural run-off.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Floodplain forests need additional surveys.

                 H.5. Spring Branch (Fig. 7):

                 A narrow palustrine forest, along Spring Branch between RI)s 385 and 386, was surveyed.
                 Habitats consist of red maple and bald cypress communities. Spring Branch flows into the
                 Murderkill east of Killens Pond State Park.


                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                   Acer rubrum Floodplain Swamp Forest [red maple swamp] - fair quality.


                                                                  16








                 'Ppieg red maple-sweet gum swamp with fairly good species diversity. Contains species typical
                 of the floodplain forests along the Murderldll River.

                 N Taxodium distichumlAcer rubrum Floodplain Swamp Forest [bald cypress-red maple
                 swamp] - fair quality.

                 An isolated, small community found within an otherwise hardwood swamp system. Significant
                 in that this stand of bald cypress may represent the northern most naturally occurring population
                 in North America. Additional species here include Pinus taeda, Chamaecyparis thyoides
                 (scattered), Liquidantbar, kssa, Alnus serrulata, Clethra, Magnolia virginiana, Lindera benzoin,
                 Rhododendron viscoswn, flex opaca, Rosa palustris, Viburnum dentata var. lucida, Leucothoe,
                 Toxicodendron radicans, Arisaema, Care-x spp., Impatiens capensis, Ifis versicolor, Boehmeria,
                 Glyceria striata, Osmwida spp., Thelypteris palustris, Thalictrian pubescens, Symplocarpus, Viola
                 sp., Woodwardia areolata, and Sphagnwn sp.

                 Rare Plants discovered along S12ring Branch:

                 Chamaecyparis thyoides                      S3                     Atlantic white cedar
                 Taxodium distichum                          S2                     bald cypress

                 OWNERSHIEP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/not-protected.

                 THREATS: Pollution from run-off; logging.

                 ADDMONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Surveys are needed both upstream and downstream from site.

                 H.6. Pratt Braneb/Andrews Lake (Fig. 8):

                 The Pratt Branch above Andrews Lake was accessed via boat and surveyed from the headwaters
                 of the millpond upstream to near RD 382. Most of this area was hard-hit by last winter's ice
                 storm.


                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventories:


                 E Acer rubrum Swamp Forest [red maple swamp] - fair quality.

                 Red maple is the dominant tree along this stretch, in some areas this tree forms 100% of the
                 canopy. Scattered Fraxinus pennsylvanica, kssa and Liquidambar are also present. The
                 understory is very diverse and contains such species as Carpinus, Liriodendron, Rex opaca,
                 Quercus alba. Q. michauxii, Comus florida, Clethra alnifolia (dominant), Vacciniwn
                 corymbosum, Ilex verticillata, L opaca, Euonymus americanus, Viburnum dentata var. lucida,
                 Leucothoe, Magnolia virginiana, Aralia spinosa, Itea, Sambucus canadensis, Lindera, Saururus,
                 Gratiold virginiana, Peltandra virginica, Thalictn4m pubescens, Scutellaria, Lobelia cardinalis,

                                                                17








                 Osmunda cinnamo    mea, and Viola sp., to name a few.

                 Rare Plants discovered along Pratt Branch/Andrews

                 Toxicodendron vemix                          S2                     poison sumac

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private/currently not protected.

                 THREATS: Agricultural run-off; further development.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Only a small portion of this stream has been inventoried,
                 additional surveys are needed further upstream although the streamside forest is extremely narrow
                 at this point.

                 11.7. Lower-Murderkill River (Fig. 9):

                 SITE LOCATION/DESCRIPTION: Surveys were undertaken from near the mouth of the
                 Murderkill at South Bowers, upstream to near Frederica. Like the St. Jones, this area encompasses
                 a vast contiguous, low diversity, Spartina altemiflora (tall and short) salt marsh community, that
                 has undergone some channelization and grid-ditching for purposes of mosquito control. Both the
                 tall and short forms of S. altendflora are present, with the latter dominant throughout the marsh.
                 In several locations along the Murderkill open marsh water management (ONIWAM)
                 impoundments have been created. And like the St. Jones, the lower Murderkill has a limited
                 amount of forested buffers. In many areas cropland extends to the marsh's edge. Only a limited
                 amount of terrestrial forested habitats are present, and these were not surveyed in any detail.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventorie@:

                 w Spartina alterniflora Salt Marsh [cordgrass saftmarsh] - fair to good quality.

                 This community is the typical salt marsh habitat present in Delaware, it is dominated by the short
                 form of the smooth cordgrass, S. altendflora. Much less abundant is the tall form (usually present
                 along the lower slopes of tidal guts and along the grid ditches). Also present, but less common,
                 are Iva fmtescens, Baccharis halimifolia, Spartina patens, Distichlis spicata, Spartina
                 cynosuroides, Atfiplexpatula, Schoenoplectus robustus, S. pungens, Phragmites australis, and
                 Salicomia sp. The often noxious Phragmites, usually occurs as small, scattered colonies but may
                 form pure dense stands (e.g. near Frederica).


                 Rare Plants discovered in the Lower Murderkill:


                 No plants of Special Concern were observed during surveys of the Lower Murderkill River.

                 OWNERSHIP/PROTECTION STATUS: Private and State/protection is limited to regulations








                 related to tidal wetlands; portions of Murderkill State Fish and Wildlife Area..

                 THREATS: Agricultural run-off; further development; additional logging.

                 ADDITIONAL SURVEY NEEDS: Additional surveys are needed along the Murderkill River
                 between Frederica and South Bowers.


                 Zoological Inventorim:

                 The lower portions of the Murderkill River ecosystem are very similar to the St. Jones River
                 watershed, with brackish to salt marshes predominating. The importance of a forested buffer is
                 also crucial to the ecological integrity of this watershed. Much of the surrounding uplands have
                 been cleared and a minimal buffer remains. Like the St. Jones, the faunal diversity has been
                 severely degraded in this system due to the loss of upland forests. Many species also face threats
                 from the spread of Phragmites which may be enhanced by continued ecological disturbances
                 taking place within the watershed. See Appendix 3 for a complete list of animal species observed
                 in the Murderkill River watershed.


                 Freshwater (more frequently in the upper reaches), brackish and saltmarshes within the Murderkill
                 ecosystem provide foraging and nesting areas for many species of birds as well as crucial feeding
                 habitat for many migratory birds and invertebrates. The freshwater marshes provide habitat for
                 an array of odonate species (see Appendix 3).

                 The Bronze copper (S2) was discovered nectaring within the freshwater/brackish marsh transition
                 zone of the Murderkill River. This species was using the Murderkill for feeding and likely is
                 reproducing in these wetlands. In addition, the bronze copper has been observed in this area in
                 previous years. Also, the Great Blue Heron (S2B) was a regular forager throughout the breeding
                 season and likely nested in the upper portions of this watershed. Other Species of Special
                 Concern observed in this region were the Pileated woodpecker (S3) and the Great Blue Skimmer
                 (S3). These species were found in the mature upland and palustrine forests of the upper Murderkill
                 watershed. The forests along the Murderkill should be targeted for protection and restoration, as
                 they not only provide crucial habitat for Pileated woodpeckers, Great Blue Herons, and the Great
                 Blue Skimmer, but also support important migratory bird foraging areas as well as acting as an
                 important wetland buffer.

                 The open high salt and brackish marshes supported impressive populations of Coastal plain swamp
                 sparrows (S3B), Sharp-tailed sparrows (S3B) and Seaside sparrows (S3B). The greatest threat to
                 these species is the encroachment of invasive plants such as phragmites. Phragmites invasion is
                 accelerated by habitat altering practices such as road or powerline construction. Phragmites
                 threatens the ecological integrity of this entire watershed and has already become well established
                 in some areas. Efforts should be made to control this pest species immediately.

                 A Bald Eagle (SIB, LT) pair has been noted as nesting/breeding adjacent to the marshes of the

                                                                 19








                 Murderkill River over the past several years. The eagle pair was not observed by Natural Heritage
                 biologists during 1994 surveys (also check with Division of Fish and Wildlife, DNREC, non-game
                 and endangered species personnel).

                 M. ChoWnk River (Figs. 10-11):

                 Extensive biotic surveys were undertaken in palustrine and terrestrial habitats along both sides of
                 the Choptank River from Mud Millpond at RD 209, south to the Maryland State line and east
                 along the Cow Marsh Branch to RD 208.

                 In general, the riparian habitats associated with the Choptank include some of the finest and most
                 diverse habitats found in Kent County, and is home to many species of rare plants and several rare
                 animals (see lists below). The floodplain swamps are primarily composed of red maple, with
                 lesser amounts of ash in the canopy; the understory is floristically diverse. Walking in the swamp
                 forest is difficult due to the soft and deep muck, although some areas have closely-spaced
                 hummocks allowing for easier access.

                 Although much of the habitats surveyed were of good quality, the river and its adjacent habitats
                 have not been immune from anthropogenic. impacts. Much of the upland forests have experienced
                 past logging events, and old sand pits and ponds have been created in several areas (e.g. Del DOT
                 property on west side, along both sides of the eastern portion of the Cow Marsh Branch, and along
                 the east side of the Choptank north of RD 211). Also refer to Fig. 11, a 1994 true color
                 photograph of the area south of RD 211, which highlights the upland impacts; note the substantial
                 upland forested buffers.

                 Natural Communities/Botanical Inventorie3:


                 0 Acer rubrum-Fmxinus pennsylvanica Floodplain Swamp [red maple-ash swamp] - good to
                 excellent quality.

                 The floodplain forest along either side of the Choptank River and Cow Marsh Branch consists of
                 a canopy dominated by red maple (Acer rubrum) and ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), with scattered
                 individuals of Betula nigra, Quercus palustris, Q.phellos, Carpinus caroliniana, Liquidambar
                 styraciflua, and Magnolia virginiana. The more abundant sub-canopy trees and shrubs include
                 Clethra alnifiblia, Ilex opaca, L venicillata, Magnolia virginiana, Itea virginica, Lindera benzoin,
                 and Viburnum dentata var. lucida. The herbaceous stratum is rather diverse and includes such
                 typical floodplain species as Saururus cernuus, Osmunda cinnamomea, 0. regalis, Woodwardia
                 areolata, Boehmeria cylindfica, Impatiens capensis, Sium suave, Lobelia cardinalis, Lilium
                 superbum, Scutellaria spp., Carex spp., Mitchella repens, Afisaema triphyllum, Platanthera
                 clavellata, 7helypterispalustris, Symplocarpusfoetidus, Ifis versicolor, and the uncommon Isoetes
                 riparia, Cphioglossum vulgatum, and Dryoptefis ctistata.

                 Due to the difficulty in accessing the swamp forest via foot and the long time involved in

                                                                  20








                 traversing this habitat only a small portion of this swamp was surveyed and additional surveys are
                 needed.


                 a Mixed Emergent Herbaceous Marsh

                 A narrow emergent marsh occurs in several open areas along the edge of the Choptank River and
                 Cow Marsh Branch and is comprised of such species as Impatiens capensis, Peltandra virginica,
                 Saururus cernuus, Zizania aquatica, Iris versicolor, Alisma subcordatwn, Apios wnericana,
                 Boehmeria cylindrica, Polygonum spp., Carex spp., and Pontederia cordata, among others.

                 Although this community type occurs in limited quantity along the Choptank, only brief surveys
                 were undertaken, and additional surveys are much needed.

                 N Mixed Quercus spp.-Carya tomenlosa Mesic Forest Association [oak-hickory forest] - good
                 quality immature/mature forest.

                 The terrestrial habitats that grade into palustrine forest, and are associated with the Choptank
                 River, consist of relatively diverse immature and mature stands of mixed hardwoods that include
                 Quercus spp. (alba, falcata, rubra, stellata), Liquidwnbar, Sassaftas, Carya tomentosa,
                 Liriodendron tulipifera, Fagus grandifolia, Hex opaca, Pinus virginiana, Juniperus virginiana,
                 Juglans nigra, Asimina triloba, and Carpinus caroliniana among the tree species. The shrubs and
                 herbs include Cornusflorida, Vacciniwn spp., Gaylussaciafirondosa, Magnolia virginiana, Rex
                 opaca, Euonymus wnencanus, Chimaphila maculata, C umbellata, C@pripediwn acaule, Galiwn
                 spp., Carex pensylvanica, C. swanii, Deschwnpsia fle-xuosa, Aquilegia canadensis, Aralia
                 nudicaulis, Panicum boscii, Aspleniwn platyneuron, Paronychia canadensis, Podophyllum
                 peltatum, Asarum canadenis, Asclepias variegata, Tipularia discolor, Mitchella repens,
                 Lycopodium lucidulum, L. digitatwn, Opuntia hwnifitsa, Smilacina racemosa, Silene stellata,
                 Uvulariaperfoliata, Smilax glauca, Lonicerajaponica, Scutellaria elliptica, and Parthenocissus
                 quinquefolius.

                 All of the upland forests have been cleared at one time or another. If left alone, these should
                 develop into mature forests. A very interesting, young second growth woods occurs on an "island"
                 within the swamp; a short soil-constructed road connects it to the uplands of the "mainland." This
                 11 island" is floristically interesting and contains a number of rare species that include Aquilegia
                 canadensis (Sl), Arabis canadensis (S2), Aristolochia serpenteria (S3), Asclepias variegata (SI),
                 Deschampsia flexuosa (S2), Lycopodiwn tristachywn (S2), Paronychia canadensis (S2),
                 Polygonwn scandens var. cristatwn (SI), Pycnanthemum incanwn (SI), and Triostewn
                 angustifoliwn (SI). These species may require the semi-open conditions of young woods in order
                 to persist.

                 Rare Plants discovered along Cho-1-2tank RiVer:

                 Surveys of the upland and wetland habitats associated with the Choptank River resulted in the

                                                                 21








                  discoveries of numerous rare plant species (see List below). Significant discoveries included: (1)
                  a large population of Aquilegia canadensis (Sl), on the upland "island" (this is the first Coastal
                  Plain population found in a more or less natural habitat); (2) an abundant population of the rare
                  quillwort, Isoetes riparia (Sl); (3) the hairy snoutbean, Rhynchosia tomentosa (Sl), which had
                  been ranked as an SH and apparently was last collected in 1937; (4) the bluntleaved grapefern,
                  Botrychium oneidense (SI), a New State Record; (5) three birds or nodding pogonia, 7Wphora
                  trianthophora (Sl), which was previously ranked as an SH and was last collected sometime prior
                  to 1860; and (6) a population of the large twayblade, Liparis Ulifolia (S2), representing a new
                  county record. The 7Wphora may have been the most significant discovery, as this species was
                  only (formerly) known, in Delaware, from near Hockessin on the Piedmont, and throughout its
                  range, only a few populations are known to occur on the Coastal Plain Province.

                  Rare Plants Along the ChoUink Riv

                  (1) Terrestrial Habitats:

                  Agalinis tenuifolia                               S1                       Slender false-foxglove
                  Aletrisfarinosa                                   S2                       White-tubed colicroot
                  Andropogon gerardii                               S1                       Big bluestem
                  Aquilegia canadensis                              S1                       American columbine
                  Arabis canadensis                                 S2                       Sicklepod
                  Arabis lyrata                                     S1                       Lyre-leaf rock-cress
                  Aristolochia serpentaria                          S3                       Virginia snakeroot
                  Asclepias variegata                               S1                       White milkweed
                  Aster linariffiblius                              S1                       Stiff-leaved aster
                  Castanea pumila                                   S3                       Chinquapin
                  Chaerophyllum tainturieri                         SU                       Southern chervil
                  Chimaphila umbellata ssp.
                   cisatlantica                                     S1                       Wintergreen
                  Comandra umbellata                                S3                       Bastard toadflax
                  Commelina erecta var.
                   erecta                                           S1                       Slender dayflower
                  Cunila origanoides                                S2                       Dittany
                  qperus refractus                                  S1                       Reftexed flatsedge
                  Deschampsiaflexuosa                               S2                       Crinkled hairgrass
                  Desmodium laevigatwn                              S3                       Smooth tick-trefoil
                  Helianthemum propinquum                           S3                       Low frostweed
                  Lechea villosa                                    S2                       Hairy pinweed
                  Leptoloma cognatwn                                S1                       Mountain hairgrass
                  Lespedeza hirta                                   S2                       Hairy busliclover
                  Lespedeza steuvei                                 S1                       Tall bushclover
                  Lycopodiwn tristachywn                            S2                       Deep-root clubmoss
                  Paronychia canadensis                             S2                       Forked chickweed

                                                                      22








                 Paronychia fastigiata                           SI                      Cluster-stemmed chickweed
                 Polygontan scandens var.
                   ctistattan                                    S1                      Climbing false-buckwheat
                 Pycnanthemum incanian                           S1                      Mountain mint
                 Pycnanthemian setoswn                           S2                      Awned mountain-mint
                 Rhynchosia tomentosa                            SI                      Hairy snoutbean
                 Scutellafia elliptica                           S3                      Hairy skullcap
                 Sporobolus clandestinus                         S1                      Rough dropseed
                 Pichostema setacewn                             S1                      Narrow-leaf blue curls
                 7Wostewn angustifolium                          S1                      Yellowleaf tinker's weed
                 Tnphora tnanthophora                            S1                      Three birds
                 Viola pedata                                    S1                      Birdfoot violet
                 Woodsia obtusa                                  S2                      Bluntlobed woodsia


                 (2) Palustrine Habitats:


                 Carex aggregata                                 S1                      A sedge
                 Botrychiian oneidense                           S1                      Blunt-lobed
                                                                                           grapefern
                 Dryopteris cristata                             S2                      Crested shieldfem
                 Eleocharis quadrangulata                        S3                      Square-stem spikerush
                 Isoetes ripaiia                                 S1                      River quillwort
                 Lysimachia hyb7ida                              S2                      Lance-leaved loosestrife
                 Ophioglossum vulgation                          S2                      Southern adder's
                                                                                           tongue
                 Rotala ramosior                                 S3                      Toothcup
                 Triadenian walteri                              S3                      Walter's St. John's-wort
                 Xyris torta                                     S2                      Slender yellow-eyed grass

                 Although surveys for the Federally listed       (Threatened) swamp pink, Helonias bullata, were
                 unsuccessful (historical collections of the swamp pink are known from the Choptank River area),
                 we are not ruling-out the possibility of rediscovering this plant here during future surveys.

                 Zoological Inventories:

                 The Choptank River drainage was surveyed for animal species from just below Mud Millpond
                 (Road 207) to the Maryland state line. The floodplain of Cow Marsh Creek was surveyed from
                 the Choptank River to Road 208 bridge. The floodplain and surrounding upland forests were
                 included in inventory. Birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies were
                 targeted for in-depth inventory; other taxonomical groups represented on species lists are anecdotal
                 observations. The Choptank River and surrounding uplands have proven to be extremely variable,
                 yet support a unique suite of animal species which should make this ecosystem a conservation
                 priority for the state of Delaware. See Appendix 4 for a complete list of animal species observed

                                                                    23








                 in the Choptank River watershed.

                 Pristine palustrine forests cover most of the floodplain. These are interspersed with riparian open
                 freshwater emergent and scrub-shrub wetlands which border the Cow Marsh and Choptank Rivers.
                 Additionally, abandoned borrow pits exist adjacent to the Choptank north of Road 211, creating
                 interesting species assemblages.

                 The palustrine forests are home to several forest interior neotropical migrant passerines such as
                 the Kentucky warbler (S3B), Louisiana waterthrush (S3B), and Yellow-throated vireo (S3B) [see
                 animal list below for additional species). Many of these birds are in decline in Delaware, and
                 deserve special conservation attention. The surrounding intact upland forests are crucial to
                 conserve in order to maintain these species populations. These upland forests also support
                 additional populations of nesting forest interior species.

                 Additional animal species of conservation concern which were found to be dependant on these
                 palustrine forests, include the Barred owl (S2), Red-shouldered hawk (S2), and Pileated
                 woodpecker (S3). All three of these species require extensive tracts of mature floodplain forests
                 for successful reproduction. The existing upland forests which border this system are crucial in
                 maintaining the ecological integrity of the floodplain forests and therefore the long-term existence
                 of these species. All three of these species are important forest predators which have disappeared
                 from most of Delaware's woodlands.


                 The Choptank River was historically known as a reliable nesting site for the Cerulean warbler
                 (S1B, C2). This species is associated with mature deciduous floodplain forests, and is sensitive
                 to the fragmentation of surrounding upland forests. Unfortunately, the cerulean warbler was not
                 found during this survey. Its disappearance from the Choptank River is most likely associated with
                 past timbering practices along this river corridor in which many large American beech (Fagus
                 grandifolia) trees were extracted. However, there is potential that this species may either be extant
                 within remote areas of these forests, or could recolonize the Choptank drainage in the future.

                 The high diversity of odonate species was reflective of the variety of different wetland habitats
                 found within the study area. Palustrine forests, open freshwater marshes and seepages, riverine
                 wetlands and abandoned borrow pits provided a diversity of wetland microhabitat which proved
                 suitable for a diverse suite of species. Most notable was the Blue-faced meadowfly (Sl),
                 Blackwater bluet (S2), Blue corporal (S2), and Cyrano Darner (S3).

                 The Eastern pond mussel (formerly SH, now SI) was discovered submerged within a sandy/gravel
                 bed in Cow Marsh Creek 0.2 miles east of the confluence of the Choptank River. This was the
                 first discovery of this species in Delaware in over 15 years. The presence of this species may
                 indicate relatively high water quality in this creek.

                 Additional rarities found during 1994 include the Eastern kingsnake and Eastern earth snake (Sl).
                 The Rough-green snake (S2) has been found within this survey area in recent years but was not

                                                                  24








                 found in 1994. A population of Rough-green snakes probably. remains extant since extensive
                 habitat alteration has not recently taken place. Like most of the rare animal species found, long-
                 term survival of these snakes is largely dependant on the ecological integrity of the upland forests
                 which surround the Choptank riverine floodplains.

                                                          CONCLUSIONS


                 Although the 1994 surveys of the St. Jones, Murderkill, and Choptank River systems were not
                 entirely comprehensive, the results of field inventories identified, several areas of biodiversity
                 significance and high quality habitats. At the same time, the surveys underscored the general lack
                 of buffers *in many areas along these river systems (especially along the St. Jones River and in the
                 lower portion of the Murderkill River). Throughout the St. Jones and Murderkil Rivers, adequate
                 vegetative buffers are lacking, while in comparson, a substantial amount of buffer is present along
                 the Choptank; see Figs. I - 11.

                 Areas of high biological significance (i.e. quality habitat and rare species assemblages) include:
                 the Browns Branch and Big Cripple Swamp, Black Swamp Creek, and the Murderkill at Killens
                 Pond State Park; the Cypress Swamp and Tidbury Creek of the St. Jones River, and all of the
                 Choptank River. The Choptank River contains exceptionally high quality habitats that should be
                 a conservation priority.

                 The lower St. Jones River and Murderkill River include an abundance of salt marsh habitat critical
                 to certain groups of fauna, especially migratory wading birds, shorebirds and wintering waterfowl
                 and raptors. Near the mouths of these two rivers are important feeding areas for migrating
                 shorebirds.


                 Additional surveys are needed in parts of the lower St. Jones and Murderkill watersheds, within
                 the Big Cripple Swamp, the upper Browns Branch, along Black Swamp Creek, and throughout
                 the Choptank River.

















                                                                  25



           'Kent- County urvey i'tes


                                                                                                                                              LEGEND

                                                                                                                                                       Roads
                                                                                                                                                       water
                                                                                                                                                       sites




































                                                                                                                                                N

                                               q










                                                                    0


                                                                                                               This map is prepared primarily for internal DNREC
                                                                                                               resource management purposes. The information
                                                                                                               contained hereon is preliminary and is subject to
                                                                                                               change or modification at any time. Use of this
                                                                                                               information by others is at their own risk and the
                                                                                                               DNREC in no way guarantees the accuracy of the information.







                                                                                                                I R                            B--@ S E




                                                                                                                                      2
                                                                                                                                                         A

                                                                                                      7


                                           A



                                                                                                                                                 dio To





                                                  A




                                                                                      x25


                                                                                                                          4@

                                                                                                           /0


                                                                                                                                                    4@- -






                                                                           17
                                                                                                                      16                                   -4







                                                                                                                                                           4@



















                                                             X42
                                                                                                                TO




                                                                                                                    Mapolia
                                                                                                              *Water


                                            FIG. 1.          Beaver Gut Ditch (below); Cypress Branch.
                                                            (Frederica Quadrangle)














                                                                                                                                                   W
                                                                                                                                                      A
                                                                                                                                                     113        CD







                                                                                                                                                                                            0

                                                                                                                                                                                                   .N.2.N.11:1 ... . .... . ....


                                                                          \@cld Fel'Ib-s
                                                                                                                                                                                                         ----------



                                                                                                                                                                                                         . . .........................
                                                                                                                                                                                                           .. ...........



                                                                                                                                                                                                  . ..........
                                                                                                                                                                          ........... .


                                                                                                                                                                              . .........






                                                                                                                                                                                           4
                                                                                                                                                              j
                                                                                                                                                                  jOrng Sun


                                                                          6she            im






                                                                                                                                                            Trailer








                                                                      FIG. 2. Tidbury Creek.
                                                                                                (Wyoming Quadrangle).













                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 0

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  A-A
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               ify
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               6X9


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                t
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     L I                        T L E                                      C Rj@--,-


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           x
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            @V                                                                                                             ......         ...

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      A
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                C,


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                . . . ....
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    qN
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             I                          L




                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      ........ ........



                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          .......... .
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     ... ....... I . ...





                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              ...........


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        X/4-


                                                                                                                                     X17
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       A,


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               C
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  4f
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   4
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  -                                                                                                                                                                   igh&







                                                                                                                                                  FIG. 3. Lower St. Jones River.
                                                                                                                                                                                                 (Frederica Quardrangle)











                                                                                                                                                                                 201-)


                                      :@@/'/U n i on Cem

                                      ?9







                                                             35
                                                                                 it
                                                                                If
                                                                                                                                          F       erica.








                                                        32                                                                                                          -t-


                                                                                                                                                                                 -q,4: L-,

                                                                                                                                                                              -t7-Lf




                                                                                                                                                          -7-

                                                                      17




                                                                                                                                                     A7
                                                                                                                                                   et


                                                    r



                                                          @@.Ilters

                                                                                                                                                                              Iv

                                                                         Db---





                                                                    V
                                                     24




                                                                                         Fork





                                                                                                                            27






                                                   FIG. 4. Ash Gut.
                                                                        CFrederica, XWord Quadrangles)























                                                                                                                                          -ES ti
                                                         ;I    ch







                                                                                                                                     AT-







                                                                                                                        G4    "P"
                                  -30,


                                                24
                                                                                                            g7
                                                    O@o























                                  7,  Afe Ca
                                             ,UZ






                                                                                                                                     '35





                                                 FIG. S.            larowas Branch/Big Cripple Swamp.
                                                                   (Muford Quadrangle)













                                                             A6

                          f




                                                              %
                                             All,



                          Ce n"





















            ,30


                                                                  ,,so









                   FIG. 5A. Browns Branch AboveM'cCauley Pond.
                             (Harrington Quadrangle)






















                                                                                                                                      54
























                                                                                                                                                                                    sm
                                                                                                                                                                                           55












                                                                                                                              '40,






                                                                                                                                                       02
                                                                                                                                    em'.
                                                                                                                                               13M
                                                                                              J
                                                                                                                                                                    50
                                                                                                                      eo





                                                                                                                                                                          It

                                                                                                                                                                         -41
                                                                                                     -01



















                                                     FIG. 6. Black Swamp Creek.
                                                                         (Harrington Quadrangle)











                                                                                                                ON)

                                                                                                                                                              50













                                         /-50                                                              1k                                                                                            -P
                                                                                                                                                                                                                     -17
                                                                                                                                                                                    COuqr 8
                                                                                                                           too

                                                                         6'0                                                           46





                                                                                                                S FA-TE PARK




                                                                   F, -v










                                                                                                                                                                   53


                                                                                                                                        it


                                                                                                                                        it

                                      42



                                              FIG. 7. Murderkill River/Killens                                    Pond State Park
                                                              (below); Spring Branch.
































                                            Lal k









                                                     0

















                    FIG. 8. Pratt Branch/Andrews Lake.
                           (Wyoming Quadrangle)





































                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          X7












                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               ..........
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              4@1

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  ZZ










                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Jt-


















                                                                                                                   It









                                                                                                        R ID                         NECK
                                                                                              LIFE                                      AREA!


                                                                                                                                                                      FIG. 9.                                                         Lower Murderkill River,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  (Frederica Ouadrangle)




























                             %


                                                                                      _J1
                        ?_                                                                                                         .  il.,                                        I---
                                                                  b                      H3NHOJ             @Hvkv
                                                                                                                                   11 It
                                                                                                                                                A








                                                                                       14
                        LIN,



                                                                                      RE                                            7
                                                                       I/bEL
                                                                          7@FAVYEKND






                                                                                    TH                                         lp
                                                  0









                                           A













                                                                            Eli








                                                                                Ak



                            P

















                            'w




                                                  Z-1






                      FIG. 11. Chontank River below RD 211 (note County landfill,
                                   K,--
                                sand pits and ponded areas in the wetland)








                  Appendix 1. Comprehensive Zoological Species List for St. Jones River, Murderkill
                  River, and Choptank River watersheds



                  Birds                                                                          State Rank

                  Acadian flycatcher                              Empidonax virescens               S4B
                  American goldfinch                              Carduelis tristis                 S5
                  American black duck.                            Anas rubfipes                     S4B
                  American crow                                   Corvus brachyrhynchos             S5
                  American robin                                  Turdus migratorius                S5
                  American redstart                               Setohaga ruticilla                SlB
                  Bald eagle                                      Haliateeus leucocephalus          SIB
                  Bam swallow                                     Hirundo rustica                   S5B
                  Barred owl                                      Strix varia                       S2
                  Belted kingfisher                               Ceryle aleyon                     S4B
                  Black and white warbler                         Mniotilta varia                   S4B
                  Black skimmer                                   Rynchops niger                    SIB
                  Blue grosbeak                                   Guiraca caerulea                  S4B
                  Blue jay                                        Cyanocitta cristata               S5
                  Blue-grey gnatcatcher                           Polioptilla caerulea              S4B
                  Boat-tailed grackle                             Quiscalus major                   S4
                  Brown creeper                                   Certhia americana                 S4N
                  Brown thrasher                                  Toxostoma rufiun                  S5B
                  Brown-headed cowbird                            Molothrus ater                    S5
                  Carolina wren                                   Thryothow ludovicianus            S4
                  Carolina chickadee                              Parus carolinensis                S5
                  Cedar waxwing                                   Bombycilla cedrorum               S4
                  Chipping sparrow                                Spizella passerina                S5B
                  Clapper rail                                    Rallus longirostris               S5
                  Coastal plain swamp sparrow                     Melospiza georgiana               S3B
                                                                   nigrescens
                  Common tern                                     Sterna hirundo                    SlB,S3N
                  Common grackle                                  Quiscalus quiscula                S5
                  Common yellowthroat                             Geothlypis trichas                S5B
                  Common snipe                                    Gallinago gallinago               S3N
                  Double-crested cormorant                        Phatacrocorax auritus             S4
                  Downy woodpecker                                Picoides pubescens                S5
                  Eastern pheobe                                  Soyornis pheobe                   S5B
                  Eastern kingbird                                7@rannustyrannus                  S5B
                  Eastern wood pewee                              Contopus virens                   S4B
                  European starling                               Sturnus vulgaris                  SE
                  Field sparrow                                   Spizella pusilla                  S5


                                                                    26








                  Fish crow                                        Corvus ossifragus                  S5
                  Forster's tern                                   Sternaforsteri                     SlB,S3N
                  Glossy ibis                                      Plegadisfalcinellus                S2B
                  Gray catbird                                     Dumetella carolinensis             S5B
                  Great egret                                      Casmerodius albus                  S2B
                  Great blue heron                                 Ardea herodias                     S2B
                  Great crested flycatcher                         Myiarchus crinitus                 S5B
                  Great black-backed gull                          Larus marinus                      SlB,S5N
                  Green-backed heron                               Butorides striatus                 S5B
                  Hairy woodpecker                                 Picoides villosus                  S5
                  Hermit thrush                                    Catharus guttatus                  S4N
                  Herring gull                                     Larus Argentatus                   S3B,S5N
                  House finch                                      Carpodacus mexicanus               SE
                  Indigo bunting                                   Passerina cyanea                   S5B
                  Kentucky warbler                                 Oporornisformosus                  S3B
                  Killdeer                                         Charadrius vociferus               S5B
                  Laughing gull                                    Larus atricilla                    S3B,S4N
                  I-east tern                                      Sterna antillanan                  SlB,S2N
                  Lincoln's sparrow                                Melospiza lincolnii                SZN
                  Louisiana waterthrush                            Seiurus motacilla                  S3B
                  Mallard                                          Anas platyrhynchos                 S5B
                  Marsh wren                                       Cistothorus palustfis              S4B
                  Mouming dove                                     Zenaida macroura                   S5
                  Northern flicker                                 Colaptes auratus                   S5
                  Northern cardinal                                Cardinalis cardinalis              S5
                  Northern harrier                                 Circus cyaneus                     SlB,S3N
                  Northern parula                                  Parula americana                   SIB
                  Northern bobwhite                                Colinus virginianus                S5
                  Northern rough-winged swallow                    Stelgidopteryx serripennis         S4B
                  Orchard oriole                                   Icterus spurius                    S4B
                  Osprey                                           Pandion haliaetus                  S4B
                  Ovenbird                                         Seiurus aurocapillus               S5B
                  Pileated woodpecker                              Dryocopus pileatus                 S3
                  Pine warbler                                     Dendroica pinus                    S4B
                  Prothonotary warbler                             Protonotaria citrea                S4B
                  Red eyed vireo                                   Vireo olivaceus                    S5B
                  Red knot                                         Calidris canutus                   S2N
                  Red-bellied woodpecker                           Melanerpes carolinus               S5
                  Red-shouldered hawk                              Buteo lineatus                     S2B,SZN
                  Red-tailed hawk                                  Buteo jamaicensis                  S5
                  Red-winged blackbird                             Agelaius phoeniceus                S5
                  Ring-billed gull                                 Larus Delawarensis                 S5N
                  Royal tern                                       Sterna maxima                      S3N

                                                                      27








                 Ruby crowned kinglet,                          Regulus calendula                 S4N,SZN
                 Ruby-throated hummingbird                      Archilochus colubris              S5B
                 Ruddy turnstone                                Arenaria interpes                 S2N
                 Sanderling                                     Calidris alba                     S3N
                 Scarlet tanager                                Piranga piranga                   S4B
                 Seaside sparrow                                Ammodramus maritimus              S3
                 Sharp-shinned hawk                             Accipenser striatus               S3N
                 Sharp-tailed sparrow                           Ammodramus caudacutus             S3B,S2N
                 Snowy egret                                    Egretta thula                     SiB
                 Song sparrow                                   Melospiza melodia                 S5
                 Tree swallow                                   Tachycineta bicolor               S4B
                 Tufted titmouse                                Parus bicolor                     S5
                 Turkey vulture                                 Cathartes aura                    S5
                 White-eyed vireo                               Vireo griseus                     S5B
                 White-throated sparrow                         Zonotrichia albicollis            S5N
                 Willet                                         Catoptrophorus sentipalmatus      S4B
                 Wood duck                                      Aix sponsa                        S4B
                 Woodthrush                                     Zonotrichia albicollis            S5B
                 Yellow warbler                                 Dendroica petechia                S4B
                 Yellow-billed cuckoo                           Coccyzus americanus               S4B
                 Yellow-breasted chat                           Icteria virens                    S4B
                 Yellow-rumped warbler                          Dendroica coronata                S5N
                 Yellow-throated vireo                          Vireo flavVrons                   S3B


                 Mammals


                 Beaver                                         Castor canadensis                 S3
                 Gray squirrel                                  Sciurus carolinensis              S5
                 Muskrat                                        Ondatra zibethicus                S5
                 River otter                                    Lutra canadensis                  S3
                 White-tailed deer                              Odocoileus virginianus            S5

                 Reptiles and Amoibians

                 Gray treefrog                                  Hyla versicolor                   S4
                 Green frog                                     Rana catnitans                    S5
                 New Jersey chorus frog                         Pseudacris triseriata             S4
                 Northern spring peeper                         Hyla crucifer                     S5
                 Southern leopard frog                          Rana sphenocephala                S5
                 Diamond-backed terrapin                        Malaclemys terrapin               S4
                 Eastern box turtle                             Terrapene carolina                S5
                 Eastern kingsnake                              Lamprpeltis getula                S2
                 Eastern earth snake                            Virginia valeriae                 Sl

                                                                   28








                 Northern watersnake                             Nerodia sipedon                   S5

                 Dra2onflies

                 River cruiser                                   Macromia spp.
                 Black mantled glider                            Tramea lacenua                    S3
                 Blue corporal                                   Libellula deplanata               S2
                 Blue dasher                                     Pachydiplax longipennis           S5
                 Blue-faced meadowfly                            Sympetrum ambiguum                S1
                 Cherry-faced meadowfly                          Sympetrum internurn               S4
                 Common Baskettail                               Yetragoneuria cynosura            S4
                 Common whitetail                                Libellula lydia                   S5
                 Cyrano darner                                   Nasiaeschna pentacantha           S3
                 Eastern Pond hawk                               Erythemis simplicicollis          S5
                 Eastern amberwing                               Perithemis tenera                 S5
                 Fawn darner                                     Boyeria vinosa                    S4
                 Great blue skimmer                              Libellula vibrans                 S3
                 Mocha emerald                                   Somatochlora linearis             S4
                 Needhams skimmer                                Libellula needhami                S5
                 Ruby meadowfly                                  Sympetrum rubicundulwn            S4
                 Seaside dragonlet                               Erythrodiplax berenice            S5
                 Slaty skimmer                                   Libelluld incesta                 S5
                 Fragile forktail                                Ischnura posita                   S5
                 Blackwater bluet                                Enallagma weewa                   S2
                 Blue-fronted dancer                             Argia apicalis                    S4
                 Blue-tipped dancer                              Argia tibiallis                   S4
                 Eastern forktail                                Ischnura verticallis              S5
                 Eastern red damsel                              Amphiagrion sauciwn               S4
                 Ebony jewelwing                                 Calopteryx maculata               S5
                 Familiar bluet                                  Enallagma civile                  S5
                 Slender spreadwing                              Lestes rectangularis              S4
                 Sparkling jewelwing                             Calopteryx dimidiata              S3
                 Stream bluet                                    Enallagma exulans                 S5
                 Turquiose bluet                                 Enallagma divagens                S4
                 Violet dancer                                   Argiafumipennis violacea          S5


                 Butterflies


                 Orange sulfur                                   Colias eurytheme                  S5
                 American painted lady                           Vanessa virginiensis              SZB
                 Black swallowtail                               Papilio polyxenes                 S4
                 Bronze copper                                   Lycaena hyllus                    S2
                 Buckeye                                         Junonia coenia                    SZB

                                                                   29









                 Clouded sulfur                                 Colias philodice                 S5
                 Dogface butterfly                              Colias cesonia                   SE
                 European cabbage white                         Pieris rapae                     SE
                 Least skipperling                              Ancyloxypha numitor              S5
                 Monarch                                        Danaus plexippus                 S5
                 Pearly crescentspot                            Phyciodes tharos                 S5
                 Red admiral                                    Vanessa atalanta                 SZB
                 Red spotted purple                             Limenitis arthemis               S5
                 Silver spotted skipper                         Epargyreus clarus                S5
                 Spring azure                                   Celastrina ladon                 S5
                 Tiger swallowtail                              Papilio glaucus                  S5
                 Variegated fritillary                          Euptoieta claudia                SZB

                 Bivalves


                 Eastern pondmussel                             Ligumia nasuta                   S1































                                                                  30








                  APPENDIX 2. Animal species found during 1994 inventory of the St. Jones River
                  Those in boldface represent Species of Special Concern.



                  * (B = Nesting within study area; M = migrant through study area; W = wintering within
                  study area; a combined rank is given if species equally depends on, study area for migratory,
                  breeding or wintering space)

                  Common nam                                      Scientific Name                      al
                                                                                                 Slatg


                  BIRDS



                  American avocet                                 Recurvirostra americana           M
                  American black duck                             Anas rubripes                     B
                  American robin                                  Turdus migratorius                B
                  American goldfinch                              Carduelis tristis                 B
                  Bald eagle                                      Hafiateeus leucocephalus          B (nest
                                                                                                    failed)
                  Bam swallow                                     Hirundo rustica                   B
                  Belted kingfisher                               Ceryle alcyon                     B
                  Black skimmer                                   Rynchops niger                    B?
                  Blue j ay                                       C@anocitta cristata               B
                  Boat-tailed grackle                             Quiscalus major                   B
                  Brown-headed cowbird                            Molothrus ater                    B
                  Carolina chickadee                              Parus carolinensis                B
                  Carolina wren                                   Thryothorus ludovicianus          B
                  Clapper rail                                    Rallus longirostris               B
                  Common grackle                                  Quiscalus quiscula                B
                  Common snipe                                    Gallinago gallinago               ?
                  Common tem                                      Sterna hirundo                    M
                  Common yellowthroat                             Geothlypis trichas                B
                  Eastern kingbird                                2)?rannus tyrannus                B
                  Eastern wood pewee                              Contopus virens                   B
                  European starling                               Sturnus vulgaris                  B
                  Fish crow                                       Corvus ossif-ragus                B
                  Forster's tern                                  Sternaforsten                     M
                  Glossy ibis                                     Plegadisfalcinellus               M
                  Great black-backed gull                         Lants matinus                     M
                  Great blue heron                                Ardea herodias                    NEB
                  Great egret                                     Casmerodius albus                 M
                  Great crested flycatcher                        Myiarchus crinitus                B
                  Green-backed heron                              Butorides striatus                B


                                                                    31








                 Gray catbird                                   Dumetella carolinensis            B
                 Herring gull                                   Larus argentatus                  M
                 Killdeer                                       Charadrius vociferus              B
                 Laughing gull                                  Larus atricilla                   M
                 Least tem                                      Sterna antillarum                 M
                 Mallard                                        Anas platyrhynchos                B
                 Marsh wren                                     Cistothorus Palustris             B
                 Mourning dove                                  Zenaida macroura                  B
                 Northern cardinal                              Cardinalis cardinalis             B
                 Northern harrier                               Orcus cyaneus                     M
                 Red eyed vireo                                 Vireo olivaceus                   B
                 Red-tailed hawk                                Buteojamaicensis                  B
                 Red-winged blackbird                           Agelaius phoeniceus               B
                 Red knot                                       Calidris canutus                  M
                 Ring-billed gull                               Larus Delawarensis                B
                 Royal tern                                     Sterna maxima                     M
                 Ruby crowned kinglet                           Regulus calendula                 W
                 Ruddy tumstone                                 Arenaria interpes                 M
                 Sanderling                                     Calidris alba                     M
                 Seaside sparrow                                Ammodramus maritimus              B
                 Scarlet tanager                                Piranga piranga                   B
                 Sharp-shinned hawk                             Accipenser striatus               M
                 Snowy egret                                    Egretta thula:                    M
                 Song sparrow                                   Melospiza melodia                 B
                 Tree swallow                                   Tachycineta bicolor               B
                 Tufted titmouse                                Parus bicolor                     B
                 Turkey vulture                                 Cathartes aura                    B
                 Yellow-rumped warbler                          Dendroica dominica                M
                 Yellow warbler                                 Dendroica petechia                B
                 Willet                                         Catoptrophorus semipalmatus       B

                 REPIMU AND AMPHIBLANS


                 Diamond-backed terrapin                        Malaclemys terrapin               B
                 Northern spring peeper                         Hyla crucifer                     B
                 Southern leopard frog                          Rana sphenocephala                B


                 MAACNIALS


                 River otter                                    Lutra canadensis                  B
                 Muskrat                                        Ondatra zibethicus                B
                 White-tailed deer                              Odocoileus virginianus            B



                                                                  32











                DRAGONFLIES


                Seaside dragonlet                            Erythrodiplax berenice          B
                Eastern Pond hawk                            Erythemis simplicicollis        B

                DAMSELFLIES


                Familiar bluet                               Enaqllagma civile                B
                Eastern amberwing                            Perithemis tenera                B
                Blue-fronted dancer                          Argia apicalis                   B

                BUTTERFLIES

                Buckeye                                      Juonia coenia                    M
                European cabbage white                       Piens rapae                      B
                Orange sulfur                                Colias eurytheme                 B
                Monarch                                      Danaus plexippus                 B
                Dogface butterfly                          Colias cesonia                     ?




























                                                                33
 








                 APPENDIEK 3. Animal species found during 1994 inventory of the Murderkill River*.
                 Those in boldface represent Species of Special Concern.


                 * (B = Nesting within study area; M = migrant through study area; W = wintering within
                 study area; a combined rank is given if species equally depends on study area for migratory,
                 breeding or wintering space)

                 Common-name                                  Scientific nmg                 &aim*


                 BIRDS


                 Acadian flycatcher                           Empidonax virescens              B
                 American crow                                Corvus brachyrhynchos            B
                 American goldfinch                           Carduelis u1stis                 B
                 American robin                               Turdus migratorlus               B
                 Barn swallow                                 Hirundo rustica                  B
                 Belted kingfisher                            Ceryle alcyon                    B
                 American black duck                          Anas nibripes                    B
                 Blue-grey gnatcatcher                        Polioptilla caerulea             B
                 Blue grosbeak                                Guiraca caerulea                 B
                 Bluejay                                      C@anocitta cristata              B
                 Carolina chickadee                           Parus carolinensis               B
                 Carolina wren                                Thryothorus ludoviciania         B
                 Cedar waxwing                                Bombycilla cedrorwn              B
                 Clapper rail                                 Rallus Iongirostris              B
                 Coastal plain swamp                          Melospiza georgiana              B
                  sparrow                                       nigrescens
                 Common grackle                               Quiscalus quiscula               B
                 Common tern                                  Sterna hirundo                   M
                 Common yellowthroat                          Geothlypis trichas               B
                 Double-crested cormorant                     Phalacrocorax auritus           M/F
                 Downy woodpecker                             Picoides pubescens               B
                 Eastern kingbird                             7@rannus tyrannus                B
                 Eastern pheobe                               Sayornis pheobe                  B
                 Eastern wood pewee                           Contopus virens                  B
                 European starling                            Sturnus vulgaris                 B
                 Fish crow                                    Corvus ossifragus                B
                 Great blue heron                             Ardea herodias                  MNB
                 Great crested flycatcher                     Myiarchus crinitus               B
                 Green-backed heron                           Butorides striatus               B
                 Hairy woo  dpecker                           Picoides villosus                B

                                                                 34









                 Herring gull                                 Larus Argentatus                M/W
                 House finch                                  Carpodacus mexicanus            B/W
                 Indigo bunting                               Passerina cyanea                B
                 Least tem                                    Stenta antillarum               M/F
                 Mallard                                      Anas platyrhynchos              B/W
                 Marsh wren                                   Cistothorus palustris           B
                 Mourning dove                                Zenaida macroura                B
                 Northern bobwhite                            Colinus virginianus             B
                 Northern cardinal                            Cardinalis cardinalis           B
                 Northern flicker                             Colaptes auratus                B
                 Northern rough-winged swallow                Stelgidopteryx serripennis      B
                 Orchard oriole                               Icterus spurius                 B
                 Osprey                                       Pandion haliaetus               B
                 Pileated woodpecker                          Drympus pileatus                B
                 Pine warbler                                 Dendroica pinus                 B
                 Prothonotary warbler                         Protonotaria citrea             B
                 Red-bellied woodpecker                       Melanerpes carolinus            B
                 Red-eyed vireo                               Vireo olivaceus                 B
                 Red-winged blackbird                         Agelaius phoeniceus             B
                 Seaside sparrow                              Ammodramus maritimus            B
                 Scarlet tanager                              Piranga piranga                 B
                 Sharp-tailed sparrow                         Ammodramus caudacutus           B
                 Song sparrow                                 Melospiza melodia               B
                 Snowy egret                                  Egretta thula                   F
                 Tree swallow                                 Tachycineta bicolor             B
                 Tufted titmouse                              Parus bicolor                   B
                 Turkey vulture                               Cathartes aura                  B
                 Yellow-billed cuckoo                         Coccyzus americanus             B
                 Yellow-rumped warbler                        Dendroica coronata              M/W
                 White-eyed vireo                             Vireo griseus                   B
                 Wood duck                                    Aix sponsa                      B
                 Woodthrush                                   Zonotrichia albicollis          W
                 Willet                                       Catoptrophorus semipalmatus     B


                 NUNMALS


                 River otter                                  Lutra canadensis                B
                 White-tailed deer                            0docoileus virginianus          B


                 AMPHIBIANS


                 Gray treefrog                                Hyla versicolor                 B
                 Northern spring peeper                       Hyla crucifer                   B

                                                                35








                 Southern leopardfrog                           Rana sphenocephala               B

                 DRAGONE1M

                 A river cruiser                                Macromia spp.                    B
                 Black mantled glider                           Trwnea lacerata                 M?/B?
                 Cherry faced meadowfly                         Sympetrwn intemwn                B
                 Common whitetail                               Libellula lydia                  B
                 Eastern amberwing                              Pefithemis tenera                B
                 Great blue skimmer                             Libellula vibrans                B
                 Needhams skimmer                               Libellula needhami               B
                 Seaside dragonlet                              Erythrodiplax berenice           B

                 DAMSELFLIES


                 Blue fronted dancer                            Argia apicalis                   B
                 Eastern forktail                               Ischnura verticallis             B
                 Familiar bluet                                 Enallagma civile                 B


                 BUTTERFLIES


                 Alfalfa butterfly                              Colias eurytheme                 B
                 American painted lady                          Vanessa virginiensis             B
                 Black swallowtail                              Papilio polyxenes                B
                 Bronze copper                                  Lycaena hyllus                   B
                 Buckeye                                        Junonia coenia                   B
                 Clouded sulfur                                 Colias philodice                 B
                 Dogface butterfly                              Colias cesonia                   B
                 Least skipperling                              Ancyloxypha nwnitor              B
                 Monarch                                        Danaus plexippus                 B
                 Pearly crescentspot                            Phyciodes tharos                 B
                 Red spotted purple                             Limenitis arthemis               B
                 Silver spotted sk@pper                         Epargyreus clants                B
                 Spring azure                                   Celastfina ladon                 B
                 Tiger swallowtail                              Papilio glaucus                  B
                 Variegated fritillary                          Euptoieta claudia                M/B?









                                                                  36









                  APPENDIEK 4. Animal species observed along the Choptank River during the 1994 field
                  season*. Those in boldface represent Species of Special Concern.


                  * (B = Nesting within study area; M = migrant through study area; W = wintering within study
                  area; a combined rank is given if species equally depends on study area for migratory, breeding
                  or wintering space).

                  Common name                                      Scientific name                 StAtLLS*


                  BIRI)S


                  Acadian flycatcher                               Empidonax virescens               B
                  American crow                                    Corvus brachyrhynchos             B
                  American goldfinch                               Carduelis tristis                 B
                  American robin                                   Turdus migratotius                B
                  American redstart                                Setohaga ruticilla                M
                  Barred owl                                       Strix varia                       B**
                  Black and white warbler                          Mniotilta vatia                   M
                  Blue-gray gnatcatcher                            Polioptilla caerulea              B
                  Blue grosbeak                                    Guiraca caerulea                  B
                  Blue j ay                                        C@anocitta cristata               B
                  Brown creeper                                    Certhia wnericana                M/W
                  Brown thrasher                                   Toxostoma rufiun                  B
                  Carolina chickadee                               Parus carolinensis                B
                  Carolina wren                                    Thryothorus ludovicianus          B
                  Cedar waxwing                                    Bombycilla cedron4m               B
                  Chipping sparrow                                 Spizella passefina                B
                  Common grackle                                   Quiscalus quiscula                B
                  Common yellowthroat                              Geothlypis tfichas                B
                  Downy woodpecker                                 Picoides pubescens                B
                  Eastern pheobe                                   Sayonfis pheobe                   B
                  Eastern wood pewee                               Contopus virens                   B
                  Field sparrow                                    Spizella pusilla                  M
                  Fish Crow                                        Corvus ossifragus                 B
                  Gray catbird                                     Dwnetella carolinensis            B
                  Great blue heron                                 Ardea herodias                    M
                  Great crested flycatcher                         Myiarchus crinitus                B
                  Green-backed heron                               Butofides striatus                B
                  Hairy woodpecker                                 Picoides villosus                 B
                  Hermit thrush                                    Catharus guttatus                 M
                  Indigo bunting                                   Passerina cyanea                  B
                  Kentucky warbler                                 Oporomisfomosus                   B


                                                                     37








                  Lincoln's sparrow                              Melospiza lincolnii              M
                  Louisiana waterthrush.                         Seiurus motaciUa                 B
                  Northern cardinal                              Cardinalis cardinalis            B
                  Northern flicker                               Colaptes auratus                 B
                  Northern parula                                Parula americana                 M
                  Ovenbird                                       Seiurus aurocapillus             B
                  Fileated woodpecker                            Dryocopus pileatus               B
                  Pine Warbler                                   Dendroica pinus                  B
                  Prothonotary warbler                           Protonotaria citrea              B
                  Red-bellied woodpecker                         Melanerpes carolinus             B
                  Red-eyed vireo                                 Vireo olivaceus                  B
                  Red-shouldered hawk                            Buteolineatus                    B
                  Red-winged blackbird                           Agelaius phoeniceus              B
                  Ruby-throated hummingbird                      Archilochus colubris             B
                  Scarlet tanager                                Piranga piranga                  B
                  Tufted titmouse                                Parus hicolor                    B
                  Turkey vulture                                 Cathartes aura                   B
                  White-eyed vireo                               Vireo griseus                    B
                  Mite-throated sparrow                          Zonotrichia albicollis           W
                  Woodthrush                                     Hylocichla mustelina             B
                  Wood duck                                      Aix sponsa                       B
                  Yellow-billed cuckoo                           Coccyzus americanus              B
                  Yellow-breasted chat                           Icteria virens                   B
                  Yellow-rumped warbler                          Dendroica dominica               M
                  Yellow-throated vireo                          Vireo flavifrons                 B

                  NLAMMALS


                  Beaver                                         C49or canadensis                 B
                  Gray squirrel                                  Sciurus carolinensis             B
                  White-tailed deer                              Odocoileus virginianus           B

                  REIIHM AND AWHIBLANS


                  Chorus frog                                    Pseudacris triseriata            B
                  Green frog                                     Rana camitans                    B
                  Southern leopard frog                          Rana sphenocephala               B

                  Eastern box turtle                             Terrapene carolina               B
                  Eastern earth snake                            Virginia valeriae                B
                  Eastern kingsnake                              Lamprpeftis getula               B
                  Northern watersnake                            Nerodia sipedon                  B



                                                                   38












                  DRAGONFLIES


                  Blue corporal                                   Libellula deplanata                 B
                  Blue dasher                                     Pachydiplax longipennis             B
                  Blue-faced meadowfly                            Sympetrum ambiguum                  B
                  Common Baskettail                               Tetragoneuria cynosura              B
                  Common whitetail                                Libellula lydia                     B
                  Cyrano darner                                   Nasiaeschna pentacantha             B
                  Eastern pondhawk                                Erythemis simplicicollis            B
                  Familiar bluet                                  Enallagma civile                    B
                  Fawn darner                                     Boyeria pinosa                      B
                  Fragile forktail                                Ischnura posita                     B
                  Great blue skimmer                              Libellula vibrans                   B
                  Mocha emerald                                   Somatochlora linearis               B
                  Ruby meadowfly                                  Sympetrum rubicundulum              B
                  Slaty skimmer                                   Libellula incesta                   B

                  DAMSELFLIES


                  Blackwater bluet                                Enallagma weewa                     B
                  Blue-tipped dancer                              Argia tibiallis                     B
                  Eastern red damsel                              Amphiagrion saucium                 B
                  Ebony jewelwing                                 Calopteryx maculata                 B
                  Slender spreadwing                              Lestes rectangularis                B
                  Sparkling jewelwing                             Calopteryx dimidiata                B
                  Stream bluet                                    Enallagma exulans                   B
                  Turquiose bluet                                 Enallagma divagens                  B
                  Violet dancer                                   Argia fumipennis violacea           B

                  BUTTERFLIES


                  Dogface                                         Colias cesonia                      M
                  European cabbage white                          Pieris rapae                        B
                  Monarch                                         Danaus plexippus                    M/B
                  Orange sulfur                                   Colias eurytheme                    B
                  Pearl crescent-spot                             Phyciodes tharos                    B
                  Red admiral                                     Vanessa atalanta                    M/B
                  Red-spotted purple                              Limenitis arthemis                  B
                  Silver spotted skipper                          Epargyreaus clarus                  B
                  Tiger swallowtail                               Papilio glaucus                     B





                                                                    39
 


  I
  I          BIVAINDS
  I          Eastern pondmussel.                Ugumia nasuta            B
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  1                                               40
  1



 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I          APPENDIEK 5. Rare Species State Ranking Criteria.
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 I
 1                       41
 1







                             EIGLANAMN OF SrATE RAMG FOR SPECIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN

                   Ranks are based on a system developed by The Nature Conservancy to measure the rarity of a species. Each
               taxon is given a global and state rank. The global rank reflects the rarity of the species throughout the world and
               the state rank reflects the rarity within Delaware. State and global ranks am used to priontize conservation and
               protection efforts so that the rarest of species receive immediate attention. The primary criteria for ranldng species
               is the number of known distinct occurrences or populations. Ranks for individual species are annually updated and
               are based on current knowledge.

               STATE RANKS


               S1 Extremely rare; typically 5 or fewer known occurrences in the state; or only a few remaining individuals; may
               be especially vulnerable to extirpation.

               S2 Very rare; typically between 6 and 20 known occurrences; may be susceptible to becoming extirpated.

               S3 Rare to uncommon; typically 21 to 100 known occurrences; S3 ranked species are not yet susceptible to
               becoming extirpated in the state but may be if additional populations are destroyed.

               S4 Common; apparently secure under present conditions; typically 100 or more known occurrences, but may be
               fewer with many large populations; usually not susceptible to immediate threats.

               S5 Very common; demonstrably secure under present conditions.

               SU Status uncertain; an uncommon species considered to be of concern and of conservation priority in the state,
               but there is inadequate data to determine rarity. Also includes uncommon species of uncertain nativity in the     state.

               SH Historically known from the state but not verified for an extended period (usually 15 years); there are
               expectations that the species may be rediscovered.

               SX Species has been determined or presumed to be extirpated. All historical occurrences have been searched or
               all known sites have been destroyed, and a thorough search of potential habitat has been completed.

               SA   Accidental in state, including species (usually birds or butterflies) recorded once or twice or only at very great
               intervals, hundreds or even thousands of miles outside their usual range; a few of these species may even have bred
               on the one or two occasions they were recorded; examples include European strays or western. birds on the East
               Coast and vice-versa.


               SB Regularly occurring species that are known to breed in the state (typically applies to birds).

               SE Exotic in the state, not a part of the native flora; may be native elsewhere in North America (e.g. western
               United States).

               SN Regularly occurring, usually migratory and typically non-breeding species for which no significant or effective
               habitat conservation measures can be taken in the state; tins category includes migratory birds, bats, sea turtles, and
               cetaceans which do not breed in a given state but pass through twice a year or may remain in the winter (or, in a
               few cases, the summer).

               SR Reported from the state, but without persuasive documentation that would provide a basis for either accepting
               or rejecting the report.

               SRF Species reported falsely (in error) from the state, but this error persists in the literature.

               ST Species whose taxonomic status are uncertain (i.e. may not be taxonomically distinct from other closely related
               taxa)-











                                                LITERATUFX CITED



               Crump, M. L. and N. J. Scott. 1994. Standard techniques for inventory and monitoring: Visual
                  Encounter Surveys in Heyer W. R., M. A. Donnelly, R. W. McDiarmid, L. C. Hayek and
                  M. S. Foster, eds. Measuring and monitoring biological diversity, standard methods for
                  amphibians, Smithsonian Instituation Press, Washington and London 364p.

               Heckscher, C. M., K., Clancy, and W. McAvoy. 1994. Biological and natural community
                  analyses of the coastal zone of Kent County, Delaware (Task No. 92-4). Unpublished report
                  submitted to the Delaware Coastal Managenment Program, Division of Soil and Water,
                  Department of Natural Resources, Dover, Delaware.



































                                                          42



                                                                       i                              I
                                                                          3 6668 14111986 9
                                                                                                    . I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I
                                                                                                      I

                                              li@-