[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 176 (Monday, September 14, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46914-46930]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-22033]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[FWS-R8-IA-2007-0021; 96100-1671-0000-B6]
RIN 1018-AV21


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Listing the 
Chatham Petrel, Fiji Petrel, and Magenta Petrel as Endangered 
Throughout Their Ranges

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), determine 
endangered status for three petrel species (order Procellariiformes)--
Chatham petrel (Pterodroma axillaris) previously referred to as 
(Pterodroma hypoleuca axillaris); Fiji petrel (Pseudobulweria 
macgillivrayi) previously referred to as (Pterodroma macgillivrayi); 
and the magenta petrel (Pterodroma magentae)--under the Endangered 
Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). This rule implements the Federal 
protections provided by the Act for these three species.

DATES: This rule becomes effective October 14, 2009.

ADDRESSES: Comments and materials we receive, as well as supporting 
information used in the preparation of this rule, are available for 
public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at the 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Scientific Authority, 4401 
N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 110, Arlington, VA 22203.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Monica A. Horton, Biologist, Division 
of Scientific Authority (see ADDRESSES); telephone 703-358-1708; 
facsimile 703-358-2276; e-mail [email protected]. If you use 
a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), call the Federal 
Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires us 
to make a finding (known as a ``90-day finding'') on whether a petition 
to add a species to, remove a species from, or reclassify a species on 
the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants has 
presented substantial information indicating that the requested action 
may be warranted. To the maximum extent practicable, the finding must 
be made within 90 days following receipt of the petition and must be 
published promptly in the Federal Register. If we find that the 
petition has presented substantial information indicating that the 
requested action may be warranted (a positive finding), section 
4(b)(3)(A) of the Act requires us to commence a status review of the 
species if one has not already been initiated under our internal 
candidate assessment process. In addition, section 4(b)(3)(B) of the 
Act requires us to make a finding within 12 months following receipt of 
the petition (``12-month finding'') on whether the requested action is 
warranted, not warranted, or warranted but precluded by higher priority 
listing. Section 4(b)(3)(C) of the Act requires that a finding of 
warranted but precluded for petitioned species should be treated as 
having been resubmitted on the date of the warranted but precluded 
finding, and is, therefore, subject to a new finding within 1 year and 
subsequently thereafter until we publish a proposal to list or a 
finding that the petitioned action is not warranted. The Service 
publishes an annual notice of resubmitted petition findings (annual 
notice) for all foreign species for which listings were previously 
found to be warranted but precluded.

Previous Federal Actions

    On November 28, 1980, we received a petition (1980 petition) from 
Dr. Warren B. King, Chairman of the International Council for Bird 
Preservation (ICBP), to add 60 foreign bird species to the List of 
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (50 CFR 17.11(h)), including two 
species (the Chatham petrel and magenta petrel) that are the subject of 
this final rule. Two of the foreign species identified in the petition 
were already listed under the Act; therefore, in response to the 1980 
petition, we published a substantial 90-day finding on May 12, 1981 (46 
FR 26464), for 58 foreign species and initiated a status review. On 
January 20, 1984 (49 FR 2485), we published a 12-month finding within 
an annual review on pending petitions and description of progress on 
all pending petition findings. In that notice, we found that all 58 
foreign bird species from the 1980 petition were warranted but 
precluded by higher priority listing actions. On May 10, 1985, we 
published the first annual notice (50 FR 19761) in which we continued 
to find that listing all 58 foreign bird species from the 1980 petition 
was warranted but precluded. We published additional annual notices on 
the 58 species included in the 1980 petition on January 9, 1986 (51 FR 
996), July 7, 1988 (53 FR 25511), December 29, 1988 (53 FR 52746), 
April 25, 1990 (55 FR 17475), November 21, 1991 (56 FR 58664), and May 
21, 2004 (69 FR 29354). These notices indicated that the Chatham petrel 
and the magenta petrel, along with the remaining species in the 1980 
petition, continued to be warranted but precluded.
    On May 6, 1991, we received a petition (1991 petition) from ICBP to 
add an additional 53 species of foreign birds to the List of Endangered 
and Threatened Wildlife, including the Fiji petrel. In response to the 
1991 petition, we published a substantial 90-day finding on December 
16, 1991 (56 FR 65207), for all 53 species, and initiated a status 
review. On March 28, 1994 (59 FR 14496), we published a 12-month 
finding on the 1991 petition, along with a proposed rule to list 30 
African birds under the Act (15 each from the 1980 petition and 1991 
petition). In that document, we announced our finding that listing the 
remaining 38 species from the 1991 petition, including the Fiji petrel, 
was warranted but precluded by higher priority listing actions. We made 
a subsequent warranted-but-precluded finding for all outstanding 
foreign species from the 1980 and 1991 petitions, including the three 
species that are the subject of this final rule, as published in our 
annual notice of review (ANOR) on May 21, 2004 (69 FR 29354).
    Per the Service's listing priority guidelines (September 21, 1983; 
48 FR 43098), in our April 23, 2007, Annual Notice on Resubmitted 
Petition Findings for Foreign Species (72 FR 20184), we determined that 
listing six seabird species of the family Procellariidae, including the 
three species that are the subject of this final rule, was warranted. 
In selecting these six species from the list of warranted-but-precluded 
species, we took into consideration the magnitude and immediacy of the 
threats to the species, consistent with the Service's listing priority 
guidelines.
    On December 17, 2007 (72 FR 71298), we published in the Federal 
Register a proposal to list the Chatham petrel, Fiji petrel, and the 
magenta petrel as endangered under the Act, and the Cook's petrel, 
Galapagos petrel, and the Heinroth's shearwater as threatened under the 
Act. We implemented the Service's peer review process and opened a 60-
day comment period to solicit scientific and commercial

[[Page 46915]]

information on the species from all interested parties following 
publication of the proposed rule.
    On December 30, 2008, the Service received a 60-day notice of 
intent to sue from the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) over 
violations of section 4 of the Act and the Administrative Procedure Act 
(APA) for the Service's failure to issue a final determination 
regarding the listing of these six foreign birds. Under a settlement 
agreement approved by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District 
of California on June 15, 2009 (CBD v. Salazar, 09-cv-02578-CRB), the 
Service must submit to the Federal Register final determinations on the 
proposed listings of the Chatham petrel, Fiji petrel, and magenta 
petrel by September 30, 2009, and final determinations on the proposed 
listings of the Cook's petrel, Galapagos petrel, and Heinroth's 
shearwater by December 29, 2009.
    In this final rule, we determine endangered status for three 
foreign seabird species under the Act: Chatham petrel (Pterodroma 
axillaris), Fiji petrel (Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi), and the magenta 
petrel (Pterodroma magentae). We will publish our final listing 
determinations for the Cook's petrel (Pterodroma cookii), Galapagos 
petrel (Pterodroma phaeopygia), and the Heinroth's shearwater (Puffinus 
heinrothi) in a subsequent Federal Register notice.

Summary of Comments and Recommendations

    In the proposed rule published on December 17, 2007 (72 FR 71298), 
we requested that all interested parties submit information that might 
contribute to development of a final rule. We received nine comments: 
six from members of the public, one from an international conservation 
organization, one from the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service 
(NMFS), and one from the New Zealand Department of Conservation 
(NZDOC). In all, three commenters supported the proposed listings. The 
NZDOC provided new information on the Chatham and magenta petrels and 
concluded that the information presented in the December 2007 proposal 
supported the listing of these two species under the U.S. Endangered 
Species Act. Five commenters provided information but did not express 
support of or opposition to the proposed listings.
    General comments we received, as well as comments we received 
regarding the three species that are the subject of this final rule, 
are addressed in the following summary and incorporated into the final 
rule as appropriate. Comments we received regarding the other three 
species of seabirds in the family Procellariidae proposed for listing 
(December 17, 2007; 72 FR 71298) will be addressed in a subsequent 
Federal Register notice announcing our final listing determinations for 
those species.

Peer Review

    In accordance with our policy published on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 
34270), we solicited expert opinions from 14 knowledgeable individuals 
with scientific expertise that included familiarity with the species, 
the geographic region in which the species occurs, and conservation 
biology principles. We received a response from six of the peer 
reviewers from whom we requested comments. The peer reviewers generally 
agreed that the description of the biology and habitat for each species 
was accurate and based on the best available information. New or 
additional information on the current population numbers of each of the 
three species and their threats was provided and incorporated into the 
final rule as appropriate (as indicated in the citations by ``in 
litt.'').
    We reviewed all comments received from the public and the peer 
reviewers for substantive issues and new information regarding the 
proposed listing of the three species, and address them in the 
following summary.

Peer Reviewers' General Comments

    Comment 1: While it is generally true that ``once a population is 
reduced below a certain number of individuals it tends to rapidly 
decline towards extinction,'' without details on what the ``certain'' 
number of individuals is, this statement is superfluous for these 
species. For these species, the issue is not so much reaching certain 
low numbers as whether or not catastrophic threats impacting these 
species are still ongoing.
    Our Response: We concur and have amended this statement in this 
final rule.
    Comment 2: Provide the taxonomic list(s) of birds used to identify 
the species.
    Our Response: We have added information on taxonomy of each species 
to this final rule.

Peer Reviewers' Species-Specific Comments

Fiji Petrel
    Comment 3: The analysis of the population size is not accurate, 
although based on the best available information, since the estimated 
population size is based on single sightings. Until surveys are carried 
out in the catchment area of the main waterway of Gau Island [the 
likely breeding area for this species], the population size of the Fiji 
petrel is unknown.
    Our Response: We agree that surveys of the purported breeding area 
will be important in determining an accurate population size for this 
elusive bird. Although we have acknowledged the lack of certainty 
regarding the current estimate of the population size of this species 
in this final rule, this estimate represents the best available 
scientific data on the population size of the Fiji petrel.
    Comment 4: Two peer reviewers disagreed with the commonly held 
belief that this species nests in ``rocky, mountainous cloud forests'' 
on Gau Island. According to these reviewers, aerial photos of interior 
Gau Island show no ``rocky'' terrain, just steep terrain covered in 
tropical rainforest. Past surveys focused on these ``rocky'' areas (the 
highest parts of the island) without success, based on information 
reported in Jenkins (1986). These peer reviewers suggest that, as no 
nests or birds have been found in the highest parts of the island, 
other possible sites should be considered. According to Jenkins (1986, 
as cited in Priddel et al. in draft), in 1925, Rollo Beck trekked to 
the summit of the island with the chief who indicated that the petrels 
nested not in the summit area but down below in dense canyons on the 
eastern side of the island. Therefore, according to these reviewers, 
future surveys should focus on the unsurveyed catchment of the main 
waterway of the island, particularly the headwaters of the Waiboteigau 
Creek on the eastern side of Gau. This remote lowland area is uncleared 
and lacks roads or trails. According to the peer reviewers, an 
intensive survey of this area for potential breeding sites is planned 
for July 2009 (Carlile and Priddel, in litt. 2008, pp. 2-3).
    Our Response: We have added this new information regarding the 
potential breeding habitat of the Fiji petrel in the remote and 
unsurveyed catchment area of the main waterway of Gau Island to this 
final rule.
    Comment 5: Consider the potential impact of the recently 
established feral pig population in the southern part of Gau Island.
    Our Response: We agree that there may be impacts to the Fiji petrel 
from recently established feral pig populations on Gau Island and have 
included this new information in the discussion of threats under Factor 
C (Disease or Predation) in this final rule.

[[Page 46916]]

New Zealand Department of Conservation's (NZDOC) Comments

Chatham Petrel
    Comment 6: Incidental take of the Chatham petrel by commercial 
long-line fisheries is not a significant threat and is overstated for 
this species. There has been no documented incidental take of small 
Pterodroma petrels in any New Zealand fishery from 1993-2007. New 
Zealand supports a fisheries observer and seabird autopsy program, and 
this species and its close small relatives have not been taken in any 
fisheries operations. Therefore, there is little risk to this species 
from fishing impacts.
    Our Response: We have reexamined our discussion of this threat in 
the proposed rule, and based on the information provided above, we 
agree that commercial long-line fisheries is not a significant threat 
to the Chatham petrel, and have amended this final rule accordingly.
    Comment 7: Pitt Island also has a population of feral pigs that 
could be a potential predator threat to translocated birds that attempt 
to nest outside the predator-proof fence.
    Our Response: We have included, in this final rule, this new 
information regarding the potential threat of predation by feral pigs 
on birds nesting outside the predator-proof fence on Pitt Island.
    Comment 8: We disagree that the existing regulatory protections 
have not reduced the threats to Chatham petrels. The Chatham petrel is 
well-protected in New Zealand under the Wildlife Act of 1953 and access 
to the breeding grounds is strictly controlled under the Reserves Act 
of 1977 (permitted access only for scientific or management purposes). 
In addition, while there might be illegal visits to the breeding 
grounds, the burrows are located some distance from the landing areas 
and are unlikely to be disturbed.
    Our Response: We agree, based on the information provided by the 
NZDOC (2008, in litt.), that existing regulatory mechanisms have 
reduced the threats to the Chatham petrel. As a result, we have amended 
our discussion under Factor D (The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory 
Mechanisms) in this final rule.
    Comment 9: It is unlikely that the Chatham petrel is threatened by 
burrow damage from storm waves. The current breeding sites on the 
[three] islands are mostly above 33 feet (ft) (10 meters (m)) in 
elevation and more than 330 ft (100 m) from the coast. However, there 
is a risk of burrow damage from storm-related tree falls.
    Our Response: We agree that the Chatham petrel is likely not 
threatened by burrow damage from storm waves, although there is a 
potential threat to the birds and their burrows from storm-related tree 
falls. Therefore, we have amended the discussion under Factor E (Other 
Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting the Continued Existence of the 
Species) for this species in this final rule to reflect this new 
information.
Magenta Petrel
    Comment 10: The risk of logging activities on private land 
impacting the magenta petrel is quite low for the following reasons: 
(1) Unprotected breeding sites are more than 3 miles (mi) (5 kilometers 
(km)) from existing roads [which are needed to move vehicles and 
equipment to potential logging sites], (2) over the past 50 years there 
has been no logging of forests near the breeding burrows except to 
clear a thin strip of forest for a reserve boundary fence, and (3) the 
private landowners are aware of the petrel's rare status and are fully 
supportive of its protection.
    Our Response: Based on the information provided above, we agree 
that the magenta petrel is not threatened by logging on private land, 
and we have amended our discussion under Factor A (The Present or 
Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment of Species' 
Habitat or Range) in this final rule.
    Comment 11: The risk to the magenta petrel from long-line fishing 
is probably not as serious as concluded in the proposed rule. There may 
be some risk as the closely related grey-faced petrel (Pterodroma 
macroptera gouldi) is occasionally caught on commercial long lines. 
However, the New Zealand fisheries observer program has not reported 
any incidental take of the closely related white-headed petrel 
(Pterodroma lessonii), which feeds in the same cold, subantarctic 
waters as the magenta petrel.
    Our Response: We have reexamined our discussion of this threat in 
the proposed rule, and based on the information provided by the NZDOC 
and other commenters, we agree that commercial long-line fisheries are 
not a significant threat to the magenta petrel. We have amended this 
final rule accordingly.
    Comment 12: There is not a risk of burrow damage by storm waves 
because the known breeding sites on Chatham Island are at least 660 ft 
(200 m) in elevation and over 3 mi (5 km) from the coast. Storm-related 
windfalls and flooding of breeding sites from rising streams, however, 
do pose a threat to the magenta petrel.
    Our Response: We agree that the magenta petrel is not threatened by 
storm waves, although there is a potential threat of storm-related tree 
falls and flooding from rising streams. Therefore, we have amended the 
discussion under Factor E (Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting 
the Continued Existence of the Species) in this final rule.
    Comment 13: The NZDOC disagreed that one random, naturally 
occurring event, such as a cyclone, during the nesting season could 
destroy the entire known breeding population on Chatham Island. The 
NZDOC acknowledged that there is a risk that some burrows might be 
destroyed during such an event, but it is unlikely that all burrows 
would be destroyed in a major storm because the forest on Chatham 
Island is very resilient to storm damage as it is regularly exposed to 
wind gusts over 60 knots. In addition, some proportion of the breeding 
birds is at sea at any stage of the [breeding] season, so the risk of 
catastrophic loss of all adults in a storm is also unlikely.
    Our Response: Based on this new information regarding the risk of 
destruction of the entire breeding population of magenta petrels due to 
one stochastic event, we have amended our discussion under Factor E 
(Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting the Continued Existence of 
the Species) for this species in this final rule.
    Comment 14: The risk of inbreeding depression is a new threat to 
consider for this species. While the magenta petrel gene pool appears 
to be fairly diverse, the tendency for returning chicks to nest close 
to their natal burrows greatly increases the risk of interbreeding 
among close relatives. Poor fertility rates were found in recent 
seasons where close relatives have interbred.
    Our Response: We have included the threat of inbreeding depression 
in our discussion under Factor E (Other Natural or Manmade Factors 
Affecting the Continued Existence of the Species) for this species in 
this final rule.

Other Comments

    Comment 15: Listing under the Act provides substantial benefits to 
foreign species.
    Our Response: We agree that listing a foreign species under the Act 
provides benefits to the species in the form of conservation measures, 
such as recognition, requirements for Federal protection, and 
prohibitions against certain practices (see Available Conservation 
Measures). In addition, once a foreign species is listed as endangered 
under the Act, a section 7 consultation and an enhancement finding are 
usually required for the

[[Page 46917]]

issuance of a permit. Through various enhancement findings pursuant to 
section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Act, the permit process can be used to 
create incentives for conservation, through cooperation and 
consultation with range countries and users of the resource.
    Comment 16: Listing under the Act can only help these birds by 
drawing attention to their needs and providing much needed funding and 
expertise to address the significant threats they face.
    Our Response: Listing the three species that are the subject of 
this final rule under the Act can provide several benefits to the 
species in the form of conservation measures, such as recognition, 
requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain 
practices (see Available Conservation Measures).
    Comment 17: We would encourage the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
to carefully consider how listing these species under the Act will 
benefit their conservation. Would a listing under the Act prompt U.S.-
based actions that the species would otherwise not receive?
    Our Response: As part of the conservation measures provided to 
foreign species listed under the Act (see Available Conservation 
Measures), recognition through listing results in public awareness and 
encourages and results in conservation actions by Federal and State 
governments, private agencies and groups, and individuals. In addition, 
section 8(a) of the Act authorizes the provision of limited financial 
assistance for the development and management of programs that the 
Secretary of the Interior determines to be necessary or useful for the 
conservation of endangered and threatened species in foreign countries. 
Sections 8(b) and 8(c) of the Act authorize the Secretary to encourage 
conservation programs for foreign endangered and threatened species and 
to provide assistance for such programs in the form of personnel and 
the training of personnel.
    Comment 18: The general statement that the ``long-line fishery * * 
* is the single greatest threat to all seabirds'' erroneously indicates 
long-line fishing as a threat to all seabirds. The main species of 
seabirds killed in long-line fisheries are albatrosses and other 
species of petrels (not Pterodroma species). The characteristics of a 
petrel species vulnerable to long-line fishing (seabird that is 
aggressive and good at seizing prey (or baited hooks) at the water's 
surface, or is a proficient diver) do not describe the five Pterodroma 
species or the Heinroth's shearwater that are proposed for listing 
under the Act. Fisheries bycatch has not been identified as a key 
threat for any of these species; therefore, it is inaccurate to 
characterize long-line fishing as a threat to these species or to all 
seabird species.
    Our Response: We received several comments disputing our statement 
that long-line fisheries threaten all seabirds, including the Chatham 
petrel, Fiji petrel, and magenta petrel (see also Comments 6 and 11 
above). We have amended this final rule accordingly (see Summary of 
Factors Affecting the Species).
    Comment 19: The serious threats to the species are impacts from 
extremely small populations, limited breeding locations or foraging 
ranges, loss and degradation of nesting habitat, invasive alien 
species, introduced predators, and hunting.
    Our Response: We agree that the Chatham petrel, Fiji petrel, and 
magenta petrel are threatened by extremely small populations, limited 
breeding sites, degradation or destruction of nesting habitat, or 
nonnative species. We have incorporated this information into this 
final rule. We are not aware of any information regarding the current 
threat from hunting of any of these seabirds. Harvesting of petrel 
chicks (called muttonbird harvesting), especially shearwater species 
(Puffinus spp.), for food, oil, and feathers prior to European arrival 
may have contributed to the decline of some New Zealand petrel species 
(Tennyson and Millener 1994, pp. 165, 174). Currently, the Maori people 
of New Zealand's southernmost region and their descendents have 
gathering rights to sooty shearwater (Puffinus griseus) chicks on 
islands around Stewart Island. Maori from the Alderman group of islands 
off the Coromandel Peninsula have rights to harvest grey-faced petrels 
(Pterodroma macroptera gouldi). However, we are not aware of any 
information that indicates that the Chatham petrel or the magenta 
petrel is currently threatened by hunting or overcollection in New 
Zealand (Lyver et al. 2007). In addition, we are unaware of any 
information that indicates that the Fiji petrel currently faces threats 
from human hunting or overcollection.
    Comment 20: The primary threats to these species are predation by 
introduced predators and risk at breeding colonies.
    Our Response: We agree that predation by nonnative predators is a 
significant threat to one or more life stages of the Chatham petrel, 
Fiji petrel, and the magenta petrel, and we have incorporated this 
information into this final rule.

Species Information and Factors Affecting the Species

    Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), and its implementing 
regulations at 50 CFR part 424, set forth the procedures for adding 
species to the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and 
Plants. A species may be determined to be an endangered or threatened 
species due to one or more of the five factors described in section 
4(a)(1) of the Act. The five factors are: (A) The present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) 
overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or 
educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of 
existing regulatory mechanisms; and (E) other natural or manmade 
factors affecting its continued existence. Listing actions may be 
warranted based on any of the above threat factors, singly or in 
combination.
    As previously mentioned, several commenters disputed our statement 
that long-line fisheries threaten all seabirds, including the species 
that are the subject of this final rule. According to the U.S. National 
Marine Fisheries Service (Mecum, in litt. 2008) and BirdLife 
International (Small, in litt. 2008), the main seabirds killed in long-
line fisheries are albatrosses and other species of petrels (not 
Pterodroma species). The characteristics of a petrel species vulnerable 
to long-line fishing (a seabird that is aggressive and good at seizing 
prey (or baited hooks) at the water's surface, or is a proficient 
diver) do not describe the three species that are the subject of this 
final rule. According to the commenters, fisheries bycatch has not been 
identified as a key threat for any of these species (Mecum, in litt. 
2008; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, pp. 2-3; Small, in litt. 2008). Therefore, 
we do not believe that long-line fishing is a significant threat to the 
Chatham petrel or Fiji petrel. The NZDOC (in litt. 2008, p. 3) stated 
that there may be some risk to the magenta petrel as the closely 
related grey-faced petrel (Pterodroma macroptera gouldi) is 
occasionally caught on commercial long lines. However, because the New 
Zealand fisheries observer program has not reported any incidental take 
of the closely related white-headed petrel (Pterodroma lessonii), which 
feeds in the same cold, subantarctic waters as the magenta petrel, the 
risk to the magenta petrel from long-line fisheries is not significant 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3). Therefore, we do not believe that long-
line fisheries are a significant threat to the magenta petrel.

[[Page 46918]]

    Below is a species-by-species analysis of the five factors. The 
species are considered in alphabetical order, beginning with the 
Chatham petrel, and followed by the Fiji petrel and the magenta petrel.

I. Chatham petrel (Pterodroma axillaris)

Species Information

    The Chatham petrel (Pterodroma axillaris) is a small, gray and 
white gadfly petrel that is endemic to the Chatham Islands of New 
Zealand (BirdLife International 2008a). Its unique underwing pattern (a 
black diagonal band that runs from the bend of the wing to the body) 
distinguishes this species from other petrels (BirdLife International 
2008a; del Hoyo et al. 1992, p. 247). The Chatham petrel is also known 
by its Maori name, ``ranguru.'' The species was first taxonomically 
described by Salvin in 1893 (Sibley and Monroe 1990, p. 321).

Habitat and Life History

    In general, Chatham petrels are considered pelagic, occurring on 
the open sea generally out of sight of land, where they feed year 
round. They return to nesting sites on islands during the breeding 
season where they nest in colonies (Pettingill 1970, p. 206). Banding 
studies have shown that young birds of this species remain at sea for 
at least 2 years before returning to land to breed and nest. Based on 
limited feeding habits data, the Chatham petrel preys on squid and 
small fish (Heather and Robertson 1997, p. 212).
    The Chatham petrel breeds in lowland temperate forest and scrub in 
habitats with low forest, bracken, or rank grass (BirdLife 
International 2008a; del Hoyo et al. 1992, p. 247). It nests in burrows 
in very friable (brittle) soils on flat to moderately sloping ground 
among low vegetation and roots (BirdLife International 2008a; Marchant 
and Higgins 1990, as cited in BirdLife International 2000, p. 55).

Range and Distribution

    The range of the Chatham petrel changes intra-annually based on an 
established breeding cycle. During the breeding season (November to 
June) (New Zealand Department of Conservation (NZDOC) 2001b, p. 7), 
breeding birds return to breeding colonies to breed and nest. During 
the nonbreeding season, birds migrate far from their breeding range, 
where they remain at sea until returning to breed.
    BirdLife International (2008a) estimates the range of the Chatham 
petrel to be 168,300 square miles (mi\2\) (436,000 square kilometers 
(km\2\)); however, BirdLife International (2000, pp. 22, 27) defines 
``range'' as the ``Extent of Occurrence, the area contained within the 
shortest continuous imaginary boundary which can be drawn to encompass 
all the known, inferred, or projected sites of present occurrence of a 
species, excluding cases of vagrancy.'' Therefore, this reported range 
includes a large area of nonbreeding habitat (i.e., the sea).
    Fossil evidence indicates that the Chatham petrel was once 
widespread throughout the Chatham Islands of New Zealand (NZDOC 2001b, 
p. 5). However, the species is currently only known to breed on one 
island (BirdLife International 2000, p. 55; NZDOC 2001b, p. 5), the 
0.84 mi\2\ (2.18 km\2\) (Oceandots n.d.) South East Island in the 
Chatham Islands, New Zealand (BirdLife International 2000, p. 55; NZDOC 
2001b, p. 5). In 2002, the NZDOC began efforts to expand the species' 
breeding range by releasing chicks onto Pitt Island, an island 
approximately 1.55 mi (2.5 km) northwest of South East Island. Over a 
4-year time period, 200 chicks were transferred to the 98.8-acre (ac) 
(40-hectare (ha)) Ellen Elizabeth Preece Conservation Covenant (Caravan 
Bush), a fenced, predator-free enclosure on Pitt Island. As of 2006, 
four adult birds had returned to the island from the sea to breed, and 
in June 2006, a pair successfully reared a chick. This represents the 
first time in more than a century that a Chatham petrel chick has 
fledged on Pitt Island (BirdLife International News 2006). In 2008, 
there were six pairs of Chatham petrels breeding in the predator-proof 
reserve on Pitt Island (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5). In addition, in 
April 2008, 43 chicks were transferred from South East Island to the 
6.2-ac (2.5-ha) predator-proof fenced site (Sweetwater Conservation 
Covenant) on main Chatham Island (NZDOC News 2008).
    The Chatham petrel's range at sea is poorly known; the species has 
been recorded on several occasions at sea near South East Island, and 
has been recorded once 7.5 mi (12 km) south of the island (West 1994, 
p. 25), and northeast of the Bounty Islands (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 
5). It is believed that the species migrates to the North Pacific Ocean 
in the nonbreeding season, based on the habits of closely related 
species; however, no sightings have been recorded in the Northern 
Hemisphere (Taylor 2000, p. 128).

Population Estimates

    The population of the Chatham petrel is very small, estimated at 
900 to 1,100 birds based on recent research and banding studies (NZDOC, 
in litt. 2008, p. 5), and is showing a decreasing population trend 
(BirdLife International 2008a). The breeding population was estimated 
to be 250 pairs in 2004 on South East Island (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 
5), and the breeding population on Pitt Island was 6 pairs in 2008 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5).

Conservation Status

    The Chatham petrel is ranked as ``Nationally Endangered'' by the 
New Zealand Department of Conservation, which is the second highest 
threat category and signifies that the species has a small population 
size with an ongoing or predicted population decline (Hitchmough et al. 
2005, p. 38; Townsend et al. 2008, p. 11). The species is considered 
``Endangered'' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature 
(IUCN). The species was recently (2009) downlisted from ``Critically 
Endangered'' because ``despite very rapid declines over the past three 
generations, the population stabilized and began to increase since 
2000; a trend boosted by two recent translocations'' (BirdLife 
International 2009).

Summary of Factors Affecting the Chatham Petrel

A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment 
of the Species' Habitat or Range

    The range of the Chatham petrel changes intra-annually based on an 
established breeding cycle. During the breeding season (November to 
June) (NZDOC 2001b, p. 7), breeding birds return to breeding colonies 
to breed and nest. During the nonbreeding season, birds migrate far 
from their breeding range, and they remain at sea until returning to 
breed. Therefore, our analysis of Factor A is separated into analyses 
of: (1) The species' breeding habitat and range; and (2) the species' 
nonbreeding habitat and range.
    The Chatham petrel breeds primarily on one island, the island of 
South East Island in the Chatham Islands, New Zealand (BirdLife 
International 2000, p. 55; NZDOC 2001b, p. 5). The species breeds in 
lowland temperate forest and scrub in habitats with low forest, 
bracken, or rank grass (BirdLife International 2008a; del Hoyo et al. 
1992, p. 247). Since the arrival of European explorers, this breeding 
habitat has contracted extensively, largely as a result of its 
conversion to agricultural purposes (NZDOC 2001b, p. 5; Tennyson and 
Millener 1994, pp.

[[Page 46919]]

165-166). However, we are not aware of any present or threatened 
destruction or modification of the Chatham petrel's habitat on South 
East Island. This island is currently uninhabited by humans (Lechner et 
al. 1997, p. 256), and since 1954, it has been managed as a nature 
reserve for native plants and animals, including fur seals, rare birds 
(including the Chatham petrel), and endangered invertebrates (NZDOC 
n.d.(a)). Access to this island is restricted by permit. In addition, 
since 1961, all livestock has been removed from the island, allowing 
the natural vegetation to regenerate (Nilsson et al. 1994, p. 110; 
NZDOC n.d.(a)). The Chatham petrel's fenced release areas on Pitt and 
Chatham Islands are protected by conservation covenants, and we are 
unaware of any present or threatened destruction or modification of any 
of the species' habitat on either island.
    The Chatham petrel's range at sea is poorly known; the species has 
been recorded on several occasions at sea near South East Island, and 
has been recorded once 7.5 mi (12 km) south of the island (West 1994, 
p. 25), and northeast of the Bounty Islands (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 
5). It is believed that the species migrates to the North Pacific Ocean 
in the nonbreeding season, based on the habits of closely related 
species; however, no sightings have been recorded in the Northern 
Hemisphere (Taylor 2000, p. 128). We are not aware of any present or 
threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of the species' 
current sea habitat or range.
Summary of Factor A
    We are not aware of any scientific or commercial information that 
indicates that the present or threatened destruction, modification, or 
curtailment of the Chatham petrel's habitat or range poses a threat to 
this species. As a result, we do not consider the destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of the species' habitat or range to be a 
contributing factor to the continued existence of the Chatham petrel.

B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or 
Educational Purposes

    We are not aware of any scientific or commercial information that 
indicates that overutilization of the Chatham petrel for commercial, 
recreational, scientific, or educational purposes poses a threat to 
this species. As a result, we do not consider overutilization to be a 
contributing factor to the continued existence of the Chatham petrel.

C. Disease or Predation

Disease
    The information available suggests that petrels in general are 
susceptible to a variety of diseases and parasites, particularly during 
the breeding season, when large numbers of seabirds congregate in 
relatively small areas to breed and nest (BirdLife International 2007a; 
Taylor 2000, p. 23). However, there are no documented records of 
diseases impacting the persistence of the Chatham petrel. Therefore, we 
find that disease is not a threat to this species.
Predation
    The Chatham petrel's breeding range was reduced extensively 
following the arrival of European explorers, largely due to predation 
by introduced species such as rats (Rattus spp.), feral cats (Felis 
catus), and weka (Gallirallus australis), a bird native to the North 
and South Islands and introduced to Chatham and Pitt Islands in the 
early 1900s (Heather and Robertson 1997, p. 213; NZDOC 2001b, p. 7; 
Taylor 2000, pp. 20-21). Currently, no introduced predators are present 
on South East Island (Dowding and Murphy 2001, p. 51). The NZDOC 
manages South East Island under the New Zealand Conservation Act of 
1987 as a nature reserve for the conservation of Chatham Islands flora, 
fauna, and ecosystems (NZDOC n.d.(a)). Access to the island is 
restricted by permit for scientific or conservation purposes only, and 
visitor numbers and movements are strictly regulated. While there is an 
ongoing risk that predators, such as rats or cats, may be inadvertently 
reintroduced to the island by boats transporting conservation and 
research groups to the island, we believe the risk of these predators 
becoming reestablished on the island is quite low because the NZDOC 
monitors and manages the island intensively to maintain the island as a 
predator-free habitat. Therefore, we find that predation by introduced 
species is not a significant threat to the Chatham petrel on South East 
Island, the species' primary breeding location.
    On Pitt Island, Chatham petrel chicks were released within a 98.8-
ac (40-ha) fenced, predator-free breeding habitat. Although this area 
is fenced, and the threat of predation on nesting Chatham petrels is 
reduced, introduced predators, such as rats, feral cats and pigs, and 
weka, are present on this island (BirdLife International News 2002; 
NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 1) and could potentially get inside the fenced 
area or prey on Chatham petrels that leave the fenced area. Therefore, 
we find that predation by introduced species is a threat to the Chatham 
petrel on Pitt Island.
    On Chatham Island, 43 Chatham petrel chicks were released within 
the 6.2-ac (2.5-ha) fenced, predator-free Sweetwater Covenant site in 
April 2008 (NZDOC News 2008). Although this area is fenced, and the 
threat of predation on nesting Chatham petrels is reduced, introduced 
predators, such as rats, feral cats and pigs, and weka, are present on 
this island (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 1) and could potentially get 
inside the fenced area or prey on Chatham petrels that leave the fenced 
area. Therefore, we find that predation by introduced species is a 
threat to the Chatham petrel on Chatham Island.
    We are unaware of any threats due to predation on Chatham petrels 
during the nonbreeding season while the species is at sea.
Summary of Factor C
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that predation by nonnative 
predators, such as rats, feral cats, pigs, and weka, is a threat to the 
continued existence of the Chatham petrel on Pitt and Chatham Island.

D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

    The Chatham petrel is protected from disturbance and harvest under 
New Zealand's Wildlife Act of 1953 and its Reserves Act of 1977. The 
petrel is designated as ``Nationally Endangered'' by the NZDOC, which 
is the second highest threat category and signifies that the species 
has a small population size with an ongoing or predicted population 
decline (Hitchmough et al. 2005, p. 38; Townsend et al. 2008, p. 11). 
Access to the breeding grounds on all three islands is strictly 
controlled (i.e., permitted access only for scientific or management 
purposes). While some illegal visits may occur to the breeding ground 
[on South East Island], the burrows of this species are sited away from 
the main landing areas and are unlikely to be disturbed (NZDOC, in 
litt. 2008, p. 2).
    In addition, the NZDOC developed a 10-year recovery plan for the 
Chatham petrel in 2001, with the goals of protecting the species' 
breeding burrows on South East Island from the broad-billed prion 
(Pachyptila vittata) (see Factor E) and establishing a reintroduced 
population elsewhere within the species' historic breeding range (NZDOC 
2001b, p. 10). New Zealand has implemented management actions for the 
conservation of the species, including establishment of predator-proof 
breeding sites, hand-

[[Page 46920]]

rearing and translocation of chicks to establish additional breeding 
sites, broadcasting of Chatham petrel calls to attract adults to 
protected breeding sites, and nest site protection efforts to prevent 
occupation by the broad-billed prion (Chatham Islands Conservation News 
2008b-e; NZDOC 2001b, p. 8; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5). A measure of 
the success of the recovery plan is the successful establishment of 
breeding individuals on Pitt Island (see Range and Distribution) in 
2006, which increased the breeding range of the species, and the 
introduction of chicks to a protected site on Chatham Island in 2008. 
These efforts are beginning to show some success (see Factor E), but it 
is too early to know the level of success, because it can take fledged 
seabirds years to return to their breeding colony to breed and nest 
(Taylor 2000, p. 15). Similarly, protection of Chatham petrel burrows 
has reduced the population impacts resulting from competition with the 
broad-billed prion (see Factor E); however, this still remains the 
greatest threat to the species.
Summary of Factor D
    We believe the regulatory protections conferred by the New Zealand 
Wildlife and Reserves Acts in combination with the actions implemented 
for the conservation of the Chatham petrel by the NZDOC under the 2001 
recovery plan provide significant protection to the species. As a 
result, we believe that existing regulatory protections have 
significantly reduced the threats from predation by rats, cats, pigs, 
and weka, and competition with the broad-billed prion. However, these 
threats still exist. We, therefore, find that the inadequacy of 
existing regulatory mechanisms is a threat to the Chatham petrel 
throughout its range.

E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting the Continued Existence 
of the Species

Competition With the Broad-Billed Prion (Pachyptila vittata)
    Based on the information available, the predominant threat to the 
Chatham petrel is nest burrow competition between this species and the 
more abundant broad-billed prion (Pachyptila vittata), which numbers 
around 300,000 individuals. The prion not only occupies potential 
Chatham petrel burrows, but has been observed actively evicting or 
lethally attacking eggs, nestlings, and occasionally adults of the 
Chatham petrel. Such competition has resulted in a high rate of pair 
bond disruption and a low rate of breeding success in Chatham petrels, 
despite the high percentage of egg fertility (BirdLife International 
2000, p. 55; Hirschfeld 2007, p. 102; NZDOC 2001b, p. 7).
    To reduce the threat posed by competition with the broad-billed 
prion on South East Island, the NZDOC has implemented nest site 
protection efforts for the Chatham petrel, including placement of 
artificial nest sites and the blockage of burrows to prevent occupation 
by the broad-billed prion (NZDOC 2001b, pp. 12, 14, 16). Although these 
actions are improving the petrel's breeding success (NZDOC 2001b, p. 8; 
Taylor 1999, as cited in BirdLife International 2000, p. 55), only a 
small proportion of breeding burrows occupied by Chatham petrels have 
been located and, therefore, protected (Taylor 1999, as cited in 
BirdLife International 2000, p. 55). Therefore, we consider nest burrow 
competition between this species and the broad-billed prion to be a 
significant threat to the Chatham petrel.
Restricted Breeding Range
    The Chatham petrel's restricted breeding range puts the species at 
a greater risk of extinction. Breeding colonies were once widespread 
throughout the Chatham Islands (Hirschfeld 2007, p. 102; NZDOC 2001b, 
p. 5), a group of about 10 islands within a 24.85-mi (40-km) radius 
covering a total land area of 375 mi\2\ (970 km\2\) (Oceandots n.d.). 
Currently, however, breeding of this species is restricted to South 
East Island (BirdLife International 2007a), a land area of less than 1 
mi\2\ (2.5 km\2\) (Oceandots n.d.), and, as a result of recent release 
efforts, Pitt Island (BirdLife International News 2006; NZDOC, in litt. 
2008, p. 5). It is unknown at this time if the recent translocation of 
Chatham petrel chicks to Chatham Island will result in successful 
breeding pairs. This habitat area is insufficient for the long-term 
survival of the Chatham petrel, particularly since breeding pairs, 
eggs, and nestlings on South East Island, the primary breeding area of 
this species, face the pervasive threat of nest-site competition with 
the broad-billed prion. It is estimated that the self-sustainability of 
the breeding population on Pitt Island as a result of the release 
program will take longer than 4 more years to achieve (NZDOC 2001b, pp. 
18-19).
Stochastic Events
    The Chatham petrel's restricted breeding range combined with its 
colonial nesting habits and small population size of 900 to 1,100 birds 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5) makes the species particularly vulnerable 
to the threat of adverse random, naturally occurring events (e.g., 
cyclones, fire) that destroy breeding individuals and their breeding 
habitat. Fire is a high risk in the Chatham Islands because the climate 
is very dry during the summer, and the vegetation becomes tinder dry. 
If fires do occur, the remoteness of the islands renders the fires 
unlikely to be exterminated by human intervention. Burrow-nesting 
species such as the Chatham petrel are at a high risk because they are 
likely to suffocate from smoke inhalation or to be lethally burned 
inside or while attempting to escape from their burrows (Taylor 2000, 
p. 22).
    Another natural disaster, severe storms, has impacted New Zealand 
historically, and so the likelihood of future impacts of storms is 
high. A severe storm in 1985 stripped two islands in the Chatham 
Islands chain bare of vegetation and soil cover, causing high increases 
in egg mortality of nesting albatrosses (Taylor 2000, p. 23). 
Considered the worst recorded cyclone in New Zealand's history, Cyclone 
Giselle hit New Zealand on April 10, 1968, with wind speeds of 275 km 
per hour (Christchurch City Libraries n.d.). Although we are unaware of 
the impact of this cyclone on the Chatham petrel's population numbers 
or breeding habitat, the severity of the wind, or tree falls created by 
such a storm, has potential to significantly damage Chatham petrel 
burrows. These burrows are particularly vulnerable because they are 
extremely fragile, occurring in soft soils that are easily disrupted by 
severe climatic events (BirdLife International 2008a; NZDOC, in litt. 
2008, p. 2; Taylor 2000, p. 128).
    While species with more extensive breeding ranges or higher 
population numbers could recover from adverse random, naturally 
occurring events such as fire or storms, the Chatham petrel does not 
have such resiliency. Its very small population size and restricted 
breeding range puts the species at higher risk for experiencing the 
irreversible adverse effects of random, naturally occurring events. 
Therefore, we find a combination of factors--the species' small 
population size, the species' restricted breeding range, and the 
likelihood of adverse random, naturally occurring events--to be a 
significant threat to the Chatham petrel.
Summary of Factor E
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that due to the species' 
small population size and restricted breeding range, the continued 
existence of the Chatham petrel is threatened by nest burrow 
competition between this species and

[[Page 46921]]

the more abundant broad-billed prion in its primary breeding area, and 
adverse random, naturally occurring events (e.g., cyclones, fire).

Status Determination for the Chatham Petrel

    We have carefully assessed the best available scientific and 
commercial information regarding the past, present, and potential 
future threats faced by the Chatham petrel. Historically, predation by 
introduced species reduced the Chatham petrel's population numbers 
throughout all of its range (Factor C). Today, however, South East 
Island is predator free, and we believe the risk of these predators 
becoming reestablished on the island is quite low because the NZDOC 
monitors and manages the island intensively to maintain the island as a 
predator-free habitat. Therefore, predation by nonnative predators, 
such as rats, feral cats, pigs, and weka, is only a significant threat 
to the species on Pitt and Chatham Island (Factor C).
    Nest burrow competition between the Chatham petrel and the more 
abundant broad-billed prion is a current, ongoing threat to the species 
that is of high magnitude and that has not been controlled by human 
intervention (Factor E). The broad-billed prion occupies Chatham petrel 
burrows, actively evicting or lethally attacking eggs, nestlings, and 
occasionally adults of the Chatham petrel, and as a result is reducing 
the Chatham petrel's population, which is already very small, estimated 
at 900 to 1,100 individuals (Factor E). Although the NZDOC has been 
actively working to protect Chatham petrel nest sites from the broad-
billed prion, only a small proportion of Chatham petrel breeding 
burrows have been located and protected (Taylor 1999, as cited in 
BirdLife International 2000, p. 55). This threat is magnified by the 
fact that the impacted area is the Chatham petrel's primary breeding 
location (South East Island), and the breeding area is extremely small, 
less than 1 mi\2\ (2.5 km\2\) in size. The only other location where 
the species has been documented to breed is the 98.8-ac (40-ha) 
enclosed area on Pitt Island where Chatham petrels were reintroduced. 
It is currently uncertain whether the species will maintain this 
portion of its range as a breeding area. As of 2006, one pair breeding 
in this area had successfully reared a chick, and in 2008, there were 
six pairs breeding in the predator-proof reserve (Chatham Islands 
Conservation News 2008e; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5).
    The regulatory protections conferred by the New Zealand Wildlife 
and Reserves Acts in combination with the actions implemented for the 
conservation of the Chatham petrel by the NZDOC under the 2001 recovery 
plan have significantly reduced the threats to the species from 
predation by introduced species and competition with the broad-billed 
prion. However, these threats still exist, and despite the efforts 
undertaken in New Zealand to address the threats to the Chatham petrel, 
the species has not recovered (Factor D).
    In general, the fewer the number of populations and the smaller the 
size of each population, the higher the probability of extinction 
(Franklin 1980, pp. 147-148; Gilpin and Soul[eacute] 1986, p. 25; Meffe 
and Carroll 1996, pp. 218-219; Pimm et al. 1998, pp. 757-785; Raup 
1991, pp. 124-127; Soul[eacute] 1987, p. 181). The Chatham petrel's 
small population, combined with its restricted breeding range and 
colonial nesting habits, makes the species particularly vulnerable to 
the threat of random, naturally occurring events. These catastrophic 
events, such as cyclones and fire, are known to occur in New Zealand 
and have the potential to destroy breeding individuals and their 
breeding habitat (Factor E).
    Section 3 of the Act defines an ``endangered species'' as ``any 
species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a 
significant portion of its range'' and a ``threatened species'' as 
``any species which is likely to become an endangered species within 
the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range.'' Because the survival of the Chatham petrel is dependent on 
recruitment of chicks from its breeding range, the severity of threats 
to the species within its breeding range, as described above, puts the 
species in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. Therefore, 
on the basis of the best available scientific and commercial 
information, we determine that the Chatham petrel meets the Act's 
definition of endangered and warrants protection as an endangered 
species under the Act.

II. Fiji petrel (Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi)

Species Information

    The Fiji petrel (Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi) is a small, dark 
brown gadfly petrel that is endemic to Fiji (BirdLife International 
2008b). The species was first taxonomically described by G.R. Gray in 
1860 (Sibley and Monroe 1990, p. 321). In our December 17, 2007, 
proposal (72 FR 71298), we listed the scientific name of the Fiji 
petrel as Pterodroma macgillivrayi, with Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi 
as a synonym. However, the Convention on International Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) standard taxonomic 
and nomenclatural reference for birds (Dickinson 2003, p. 75), as well 
as BirdLife International (2008b), recognizes the species as 
Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi. Therefore, we accept the species as 
Pseudobulweria macgillivrayi, which also follows the Integrated 
Taxonomic Information System (ITIS 2009).

Habitat and Life History

    Very little information is available on the Fiji petrel and its 
life history. However, Fiji petrels are considered pelagic, occurring 
on the open sea generally out of sight of land, where they feed year 
round. During the breeding season, they return to nesting sites on 
islands where they nest in colonies (Pettingill 1970, p. 206).
    There have only been 12 substantiated sightings of the Fiji petrel 
on land since 1965, and a total of 13 historically. These sightings 
have all been of single individuals on Gau Island (BirdLife 
International 2000, p. 55; BirdLife International 2008b; Carlile and 
Priddel, in litt. 2008, p. 3; Priddel et al. in draft), a 52.55 mi\2\ 
(136.1 km\2\) island in Fiji's Lomaiviti archipelago.
    Based on the locations of Fiji petrel sightings on Gau Island, 
researchers have speculated that the species' breeding habitat is most 
likely to be undisturbed, mature forest on rocky, mountainous ground 
within the island's cloud forest highlands (del Hoyo et al. 1992, p. 
248; RARE Conservation 2006a). It has been suggested that, based on the 
nesting habits of other colonial seabirds, Fiji petrels nest in close 
proximity to collared petrels (Pterodroma leucoptera), which nest on 
the ground in this rugged terrain of interior Gau Island (Watling and 
Lewanavanua 1985, p. 233).
    Recently, Priddel et al. (in draft) and Carlile and Priddel (in 
litt. 2008, p. 3) reviewed the available information regarding the 
attempts to discover the nesting sites of this elusive bird. All 
surveys to date have focused on the interior summit area of Gau Island 
within the island's cloud forest highlands. These authors suggest that, 
as no nests or birds have been found in the upland area, other possible 
sites should be considered for surveys. According to Jenkins (1986, as 
cited in Priddel et al. in draft), in 1925, Rollo Beck trekked to the 
summit of the island with the island's chief who indicated that the 
petrels nested not in the summit area but down below in dense canyons 
on the eastern side of the island.

[[Page 46922]]

Therefore, according to Priddel et al. (in draft) and Carlile and 
Priddel (in litt. 2008, p. 3), future surveys should focus on the 
unsurveyed catchment of the main waterway of the island, particularly 
the headwaters of the Waiboteigau Creek on the eastern side of Gau. 
This remote lowland area is uncleared and lacks roads or trails. 
According to Carlile and Priddel (in litt. 2008, pp. 2-3), an intensive 
survey of this area for potential breeding sites is planned for July 
2009.

Range and Distribution

    Although little is known about the Fiji petrel and its life 
history, based on general information common to all other Procellariid 
species, we know that the range of the Fiji petrel changes intra-
annually based on an established breeding cycle. During the breeding 
season, breeding birds return to breeding colonies to breed and nest. 
During the nonbreeding season, birds migrate far from their breeding 
range, where they remain at sea until returning to breed.
    BirdLife International (2008b) estimates the range of the Fiji 
petrel to be 59,460 mi\2\ (154,000 km\2\); however, BirdLife 
International (2000, pp. 22, 27) defines ``range'' as the ``Extent of 
Occurrence, the area contained within the shortest continuous imaginary 
boundary which can be drawn to encompass all the known, inferred, or 
projected sites of present occurrence of a species, excluding cases of 
vagrancy.'' Therefore, this reported range includes a large area of 
nonbreeding habitat (i.e., the sea).
    Although the nesting area of this species has not been located 
(Carlile and Priddel, in litt. 2008, p. 3; Priddel et al. in draft), 
the information available indicates that the species breeds only on Gau 
Island, Fiji, where the few recorded sightings of this species on land 
have occurred (Onley and Scofield 2007, p. 161; Priddel et al. in 
draft; RARE Conservation 2006a; Watling and Lewanavanua 1985, p. 230). 
BirdLife International (2008b) suggests that this species may occur on 
other islands in Fiji, but Priddel et al. (in draft) found no records 
to support this suggestion. The species was originally known from just 
one specimen collected in 1855 on Gau Island. There were no additional 
confirmed sightings of the species until 1984, when an extensive, 16-
month search on Gau Island revealed one additional sighting. The 
researchers used spotlights and recorded collared petrel calls in an 
attempt to attract petrels to the highlands area where the researchers 
were searching. On the first night of spotlighting, a single Fiji 
petrel flew into the researchers' light. No additional birds were found 
on this search expedition (Watling 1986, p. 32; Watling and Lewanavanua 
1985, p. 231). There have been an additional 16 reported sightings of 
this species on land, all on Gau Island, and 10 additional sightings at 
sea; however, many of these reports have not been substantiated 
(Priddel et al. in draft). In 2007, Priddel et al. (in draft) 
summarized all these records, specifying which records were credible. 
The researchers determined that of the 17 recorded sightings on land 
between 1965 and 2007, 12 were highly credible based on researchers' 
identification of dead specimens, photographs of specimens, or live 
specimens. In addition to the sightings on land, there have been 10 
sightings at sea, all since 1960. However, none of these reports have 
been substantiated. Based on researcher observation or detailed 
descriptions, three of these reports are considered by Priddel et al. 
(in draft) to be credible.
    We consider the evidence sufficient to conclude that the Fiji 
petrel breeds on Gau Island because: (1) All 12 substantiated sightings 
of the species on land have been on Gau Island; (2) Procellariids 
return to land only for breeding purposes; and (3) the original 
specimen of this species collected in 1855 was determined to be an 
immature bird, based on its feathers and skull morphology (Bourne 1981, 
as cited in Priddel et al. in draft; Priddel et al. in draft). It is 
therefore reasonable to believe that its nest was in the vicinity.
    The Fiji petrel's range at sea is poorly known; the species has 
been recorded once at sea near Gau Island and once at sea 124.3 mi (200 
km) north of Gau Island (Watling 2000, as cited in BirdLife 
International 2000, p. 55; Watling and Lewanavanua 1985, p. 230).

Population Estimates

    The population of the Fiji petrel is believed to be very small. 
While BirdLife International (2008b) estimates the population to be 
fewer than 50 birds and showing a decreasing population trend, Carlile 
and Priddel (in litt. 2008, p. 3) and Priddel et al. (in draft) state 
that ``the population size is unknown but assumed to be very small (due 
to the lack of sightings)'' and that ``until surveys are carried out * 
* * population size will remain unknown.''

Conservation Status

    The Fiji petrel is considered ``Critically Endangered'' by IUCN 
because it is ``estimated, given the paucity of recent records, that 
there is only a tiny population which is confined to a very small 
breeding area. Furthermore, it is assumed to be declining because of 
predation by cats, which may therefore threaten its long-term 
survival'' (BirdLife International 2008b).

Summary of Factors Affecting the Fiji Petrel

A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment 
of the Species' Habitat or Range

    Based on general information common to all other Procellariid 
species, we know that the range of the Fiji petrel changes intra-
annually based on an established breeding cycle. During the breeding 
season, breeding birds return to breeding colonies to breed and nest. 
During the nonbreeding season, birds migrate far from their breeding 
range, and they remain at sea until returning to breed. Therefore, our 
analysis of Factor A is separated into analyses of: (1) The species' 
breeding habitat and range; and (2) the species' nonbreeding habitat 
and range.
    In 1985, it was estimated that over 27 mi\2\ (70 km\2\) of forest 
habitat up to 2,346 ft (715 m) in elevation was potentially suitable 
for breeding and nesting of Fiji petrels on Gau Island (Watling and 
Lewanavanua 1985, p. 232). Unlike the lowlands of Gau Island, which 
have been cleared to a large extent for settlement, agriculture, and 
forest plantations, the upland interior forests have not been logged 
(Priddel et al. in draft.; Veitayaki 2006, p. 242). The only maintained 
inland trail leads to a telecommunication tower on a mountain peak just 
below Delaco. The 3,115 inhabitants of Gau Island live in coastal 
villages, where the majority live by subsistence fishing and farming, 
and maintain gardens up to 990 ft (300 m) in elevation. Although low-
level forestry activities occur in lowland areas, no other intensive 
industry or agriculture is practiced on the island (Priddel et al. in 
draft). Veitayaki (2006, p. 242) noted that the practice of shifting 
cultivation on Gau Island using improved machinery and the 
indiscriminant use of fire is rapidly progressing toward the cloud 
forests within the interior of the island. However, no information was 
provided to show this is actually occurring.
    Veitayaki (2006, p. 239) described a community-based conservation 
project on Gau Island that has been in place since 2001, whereby 
villagers in the district of Vanuaso Tikina are collaborating with the 
University of the South Pacific to sustainably manage

[[Page 46923]]

their environmental resources. Goals of the project include 
preservation of the upland cloud forest, adoption of sustainable land 
use practices, protection of drinking water, and development of 
alternative sources of livelihood. The success of this project has 
provided momentum beyond the Vanuaso Tikina district, as there is 
interest in incorporating the same sustainable-use practices in the 
other villages on Gau Island (Veitayaki 2006, p. 239).
    In 2003, the World Resources Institute (WRI) reported that less 
than 1 percent (0.88 percent) of Fiji's total land area is protected to 
such an extent that it is preserved in its natural condition 
(EarthTrends 2003). Gau Island, however, is relatively pristine 
compared to most areas of Fiji due to the semi-subsistence lifestyle 
(Veitayaki 2006, p. 241). The Fiji people show great pride in the Fiji 
petrel; it is the emblem of the national airline (Air Fiji) and appears 
on the Fijian $50 banknote (Priddel et al. in draft). Legislation has 
been drafted to protect the Fiji petrel's habitat on Gau Island, once 
nesting colonies have been located (RARE Conservation 2006a) (see 
Factor D). Gau Island's upland forest habitat, where the species may 
breed, remains in a pristine condition and does not appear to be 
threatened with destruction or modification. In their review of our 
December 17, 2007, proposal (72 FR 71298), Carlile and Priddel (in 
litt. 2008, pp. 2-3) suggested that a potential breeding site for the 
Fiji petrel is the unsurveyed catchment of the main waterway of the 
island, particularly the headwaters of the Waiboteigau Creek on the 
eastern side of Gau. According to these reviewers, this remote lowland 
area is unsurveyed, uncleared, and lacks roads or trails. Based on the 
information provided by the reviewers, the lowland area of the 
catchment of the main waterway of the island does not appear to be 
threatened with destruction or modification. Therefore, we find that 
the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of 
this species' purported breeding habitat or range in the upland forest 
or the lowland catchment area on the eastern side of Gau is not a 
threat to the species.
    The Fiji petrel's range at sea is poorly known; the species has 
been recorded once at sea near Gau Island and once at sea 124.3 mi (200 
km) north of Gau Island (Watling 2000, as cited in BirdLife 
International 2000, p. 55; Watling and Lewanavanua 1985, p. 230). We 
are not aware of any present or threatened destruction, modification, 
or curtailment of this species' current sea habitat or range.
Summary of Factor A
    We are not aware of any scientific or commercial information that 
indicates that the present or threatened destruction, modification, or 
curtailment of the Fiji petrel's habitat or range poses a threat to 
this species. As a result, we do not consider the destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of the species' habitat or range to be a 
threat to the continued existence of the Fiji petrel.

B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or 
Educational Purposes

    We are not aware of any scientific or commercial information that 
indicates that overutilization of the Fiji petrel for commercial, 
recreational, scientific, or educational purposes poses a threat to 
this species. As a result, we do not consider overutilization to be a 
threat to the continued existence of the Fiji petrel.

C. Disease or Predation

Disease
    Although several diseases have been documented in other species of 
petrels (see Factor C for the Chatham petrel), disease has not been 
documented in the Fiji petrel. Therefore, we find that disease is not a 
threat to this species.
Predation
    The greatest threat to the long-term survival of the Fiji petrel is 
thought to be predation on breeding birds and their eggs and chicks by 
introduced predators such as rats and feral cats on Gau Island 
(BirdLife International 2000, p. 55). Since nesting colonies of Fiji 
petrels have not been located, predation on the Fiji petrel has not 
been directly observed. However, cats and Pacific rats (Rattus exulans) 
have been found in the highland forests of Gau Island, one of the 
purported breeding areas of the petrel (Imber 1986, as cited in Priddel 
et al. in draft; Watling and Lewanavanua 1985, p. 233). The path to the 
telecommunications transmitter on the summit of Gau Island may have 
facilitated the movement of feral cats, and Pacific and brown rats (R. 
norvegicus), into this habitat (Watling 2000, as cited in BirdLife 
International 2000, p. 55). Feral cats and rats are present in all 
habitats on Gau Island from the coastal lowlands to the highest ridges 
and pose a threat to the Fiji petrel in its presumptive breeding sites, 
as feral cats and rats have caused local extirpations of many petrel 
species around the world (Moors and Atkinson 1984, as cited in Priddel 
et al. in draft; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, pp. 1-2, 5).
    The remains of collared petrels have been found in feral cat scats 
and killings in the highland forests of Gau Island, where the Fiji 
petrel may breed. Despite this predation threat, it is suggested that 
the collared petrel nests successfully due to the species' synchronized 
nesting (i.e., nesting that occurs at the same time). Synchronized 
nesting of collared petrels during the first half of the year produces 
a sudden abundance of eggs and chicks such that local predators (i.e., 
cats) are unable to prey upon all of them. The collection of a first-
flight young of the Fiji petrel on Gau Island in the month of October, 
however, indicates that this species has a more extended or later 
breeding season, putting this more sparsely populated species at 
greater risk of predation (Watling 1986, p. 32). In addition, according 
to Priddel et al. (in draft), there do not appear to be any cliffs or 
mountainous ledges where Fiji petrels could nest out of the reach of 
cats or rats.
    A feral pig (Sus scrofa) population has recently established in 
southern areas of Gau Island and is considered an emerging threat to 
the Fiji petrel, as this area of Gau Island includes the main water 
catchment of the island, one of the purported breeding areas of the 
species (Priddel et al. in draft). Feral pigs have caused the local 
extinction of other species of seabirds on numerous islands (Moors and 
Atkinson 1984, as cited in Priddel et al. in draft; Carlile and 
Priddel, in litt. 2008, p. 4).
    Protecting Fiji petrel nest sites from introduced predators by 
creating barriers around the nests is not possible at this time because 
the exact location of the nesting sites is unknown. There is no 
information indicating that predator eradication has been attempted on 
Gau Island. Even if a predator eradication program were to be 
implemented, protection of the nest sites would be difficult due to the 
permanent habitation of humans on the island and the concern for free-
ranging livestock (Priddel et al. in draft). Even if cats were 
prohibited as pets, there is still a high potential for cats and rats 
to be transported to Gau Island in boats transporting humans or other 
shipments.
    Because the threat of predation by introduced cats and rats has 
severely impacted closely related petrel species, and because there are 
records of these introduced predators as well as feral pigs on Gau 
Island from the coastal lowlands to the highland forests, the purported 
breeding sites of the Fiji petrel, we find that predation is a 
significant threat to the Fiji petrel.

[[Page 46924]]

    We are unaware of any threats due to predation on Fiji petrels 
during the nonbreeding season while the species is at sea.
Summary of Factor C
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that predation by nonnative 
predators, such as rats, feral cats, and feral pigs, is a threat to the 
continued existence of the Fiji petrel throughout all of its breeding 
range.

D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

    The Fiji petrel is protected from international trade under Fijian 
law (Government of Fiji 2002, 2003). However, as discussed under Factor 
B, we do not consider overutilization of the species for commercial, 
recreational, scientific, or educational purposes, such as 
international trade, to be a threat to the Fiji petrel. Therefore, this 
law does not reduce any current threats to the species.
    Community awareness of the conservation significance of the Fiji 
petrel has been promoted in Fiji. From 2002 to 2004, Milika Ratu, a 
local conservationist on Gau Island, led a ``Pride campaign'' (RARE 
Conservation 2006a), a constituency-building program developed by the 
conservation organization RARE (RARE Conservation 2006b). Ratu chose 
the Fiji petrel as the flagship mascot for this movement and used a 
series of high-profile activities to raise awareness of the 
conservation urgency of the species. This campaign resulted in a 
confirmed sighting of a Fiji petrel (RARE Conservation 2006a). A 
follow-up survey to the campaign revealed that 99 percent of the 
participants believed natural resource protection to be important, and 
94 percent were aware that the Fiji petrel is at risk of extinction.
    Based on increased public awareness of the Pride campaign, all 16 
of Gau Island's village chiefs signed a formal agreement supporting the 
creation of a bird sanctuary for the species (Carlile and Priddel, in 
litt. 2008, p. 4; RARE Conservation 2006a).
    The Australian Regional National Heritage Programme continues to 
fund the Pride campaign on Gau Island. The Wildlife Conservation 
Society, BirdLife International, and the National Trust of the Fiji 
Islands are collaborating to work towards implementation of 
conservation recommendations made by Ratu, including minimizing 
predators (RARE Conservation 2006a).
    Since 2002, Carlile and Priddel (in litt. 2008, p. 2) have been 
working with several local organizations and agencies in Fiji, as well 
as with the people of Gau Island, conducting surveys for the Fiji 
petrel, developing a draft recovery plan for the petrel, and training 
the local people in the identification and handling of petrel species 
in general. The recovery plan, however, has not been officially adopted 
or sanctioned by the Fijian government and is not legally enforceable 
(Priddel et al. in draft).
Summary of Factor D
    Although the Fiji petrel is protected from international trade by 
Fijian law (Government of Fiji 2002, 2003) and public awareness and 
support for the species' protection on Gau Island is strong, these 
conservation measures have not significantly reduced the threats to the 
species. Therefore, we find that the existing regulatory mechanisms and 
conservation measures are inadequate to mitigate the current threats to 
the Fiji petrel throughout its range.

E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting the Continued Existence 
of the Species

Small Population Size and Restricted Breeding Range
    Because of the paucity of recorded sightings of the Fiji petrel 
(see Range and Distribution), the population is apparently very small. 
Although the population size is unknown, the IUCN estimates the 
population to be fewer than 50 individuals, with a decreasing trend due 
to predation by introduced predators (BirdLife International 2008b; 
Carlile and Priddel, in litt. 2008, p. 3; Priddel et al. in draft). 
Small population sizes render species vulnerable to any of several 
risks, including inbreeding depression, loss of genetic variation, and 
accumulation of new mutations. Inbreeding can have individual or 
population-level consequences either by increasing the phenotypic 
expression (the outward appearance or observable structure, function, 
or behavior of a living organism) of recessive, deleterious alleles or 
by reducing the overall fitness of individuals in the population 
(Charlesworth and Charlesworth 1987, p. 231; Shaffer 1981, p. 131). 
Small, isolated populations of wildlife species are also susceptible to 
demographic problems (Shaffer 1981, p. 131), which may include reduced 
reproductive success of individuals and chance disequilibrium of sex 
ratios.
    A general approximation of minimum viable population size is the 
50/500 rule (Shaffer 1981, p. 133; Soul[eacute] 1980, pp. 160-162). 
This rule states that an effective population (Ne) of 50 
individuals is the minimum size required in the near term to avoid 
imminent risks from inbreeding. Ne represents the number of 
animals in a population that actually contribute to reproduction, and 
is often much smaller than the census, or total number of individuals 
in the population (N). Furthermore, the rule states that the long-term 
fitness of a population requires an Ne of at least 500 
individuals, so that it will not lose its genetic diversity over time 
and will maintain an enhanced capacity to adapt to changing conditions. 
Therefore, an analysis of the fitness of this population would be a 
good indicator of the species' overall survivability.
    Although the current population size of the Fiji petrel is unknown, 
we presume the population is very small, since recorded sightings of 
the Fiji petrel are few and IUCN estimates the population to be less 
than 50 individuals, with a decreasing trend (BirdLife International 
2008b; Carlile and Priddel, in litt. 2008, p. 3; Priddel et al. in 
draft). As a result, we presume the size of the Fiji petrel population 
falls below the minimum effective population size required to avoid 
imminent risks from inbreeding (Ne = 50 individuals). We 
also presume the population size of the species falls below the upper 
threshold (Ne = 500) required for long-term fitness of a 
population that will not lose its genetic diversity over time and that 
will maintain an enhanced capacity to adapt to changing conditions. 
Therefore, we currently consider the Fiji petrel to be at risk due to 
lack of near- and long-term viability.
    Species with such small population sizes are at greater risk of 
extinction. In general, the fewer the number of populations and the 
smaller the size of each population, the higher the probability of 
extinction (Franklin 1980, pp. 147-148; Gilpin and Soul[eacute] 1986, 
p. 25; Meffe and Carroll 1996, pp. 218-219; Pimm et al. 1998, pp. 757-
785; Raup 1991, pp. 124-127; Soul[eacute] 1987, p. 181). This species' 
risk of extinction is further compounded by its restricted current 
breeding range, which according to the best available information is 
limited to Gau Island, where an estimated 27 mi\2\ (70 km\2\) of 
potential breeding habitat is available. However, based on what is 
known about the species, this is considered a relatively small amount 
of appropriate habitat for breeding, particularly since breeding pairs, 
eggs, and nestlings on Gau Island face the pervasive threat of 
predation by introduced species such as feral cats and rats.

[[Page 46925]]

Stochastic Events
    The Fiji petrel's restricted breeding range combined with its 
colonial nesting habits and small population size (estimated to be 
fewer than 50 birds according to BirdLife International (2008b)) makes 
the species particularly vulnerable to the threat of adverse random, 
naturally occurring events (e.g., cyclones, flooding, and landslides) 
that destroy breeding individuals and their breeding habitat. Fiji is 
vulnerable to the devastating effects of cyclones inter-annually 
between November and April. On average, 15 cyclones affect this country 
each decade (World Meteorological Organization 2004). The most severe 
cyclone within the past 100 years was cyclone Kina in January 1993, 
with wind speeds of 120 knots spanning an area 180 mi (290 km) from its 
center. The Government of Fiji declared the area a disaster, because 
virtually all areas of Fiji were impacted by this cyclone and the 
associated flooding (United Nations (UN) Department of Humanitarian 
Affairs 1993). Landslides are common in Fiji's mountainous areas during 
these severe weather conditions (World Meteorological Organization 
2004), and would be particularly threatening to breeding Fiji petrels 
and their breeding habitat.
    While species with more extensive breeding ranges or higher 
population numbers could recover from adverse random, naturally 
occurring events such as cyclones, the Fiji petrel does not have such 
resiliency. Its very small population size and restricted breeding 
range puts the species at higher risk for experiencing the irreversible 
adverse effects of random, naturally occurring events. One such event 
could destroy the entire breeding population on Gau Island.
Summary of Factor E
    On the basis of this analysis, we find a combination of factors--
the species' very small population size, the species' restricted 
breeding range, and the likelihood of adverse random, naturally 
occurring events--to be a significant threat to the continued existence 
of the Fiji petrel throughout its range.

Status Determination for the Fiji Petrel

    We have carefully assessed the best available scientific and 
commercial information regarding the past, present, and potential 
future threats faced by the Fiji petrel. The species is at risk 
throughout all of its range primarily due to predation by introduced 
feral cats, pigs, and rats within the species' breeding range (Factor 
C). The probability of introduced predators preying on this species is 
high given that introduced feral cats and rats are present in all 
habitats on the island of Gau from coastal lowlands to the high 
interior ridges. Feral cats are documented to prey upon the closely 
related collared petrel in the interior forests of Gau Island, one of 
the purported breeding areas of the Fiji petrel. Furthermore, the 
devastating impact of predation by introduced species has been 
documented in several closely related species. There is no information 
indicating that predator eradication has been attempted on Gau Island. 
This threat is magnified by the fact that these predators likely 
threaten the species throughout its breeding range on Gau Island. A 
recently established feral pig population in the southern part of the 
island potentially threatens the Fiji petrel, particularly if the 
petrel's breeding habitat is in the main water catchment area of the 
island, which is in the southern part of Gau Island. Although the Fiji 
petrel is legally protected from international trade by Fijian law, and 
public awareness and support for the species' protection on Gau Island 
is strong, these measures have not significantly reduced the threats to 
the species (Factor D).
    The Fiji petrel's population size is unknown, but, based on the 
paucity of sightings of this species over the last 150 years, it is 
believed to be extremely small. BirdLife International (2008b) 
estimates the population to be fewer than 50 individuals. This low 
population size puts the species at a high risk of extinction due to 
the lack of near- and long-term viability (Factor E). The low 
population size combined with its restricted breeding and colonial 
nesting habits, typical of all Procellariid species, makes the species 
particularly vulnerable to the threat of random, naturally occurring 
events (e.g., cyclones) that are known to occur in Fiji and have the 
potential to destroy breeding individuals and their breeding habitat 
(Factor E). One such event, such as a cyclone, during the nesting 
season could significantly impact eggs and birds in residence at the 
time of the storm.
    Section 3 of the Act defines an ``endangered species'' as ``any 
species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a 
significant portion of its range'' and a ``threatened species'' as 
``any species which is likely to become an endangered species within 
the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range.'' Because the survival of the Fiji petrel is dependent on 
recruitment of chicks from its breeding range, the severity of threats 
to the species within its breeding range, as described above, puts the 
species in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. Therefore, 
on the basis of the best available scientific and commercial 
information, we determine that the Fiji petrel meets the Act's 
definition of endangered and warrants protection as an endangered 
species under the Act.

III. Magenta petrel (Pterodroma magentae)

Species Information

    The magenta petrel (Pterodroma magentae) is a medium-sized, dark 
gray and white petrel that is native to Chatham Island, New Zealand 
(BirdLife International 2008c). The magenta petrel is locally known as 
``Chatham Island Taiko.'' The species was first taxonomically 
identified by Giglioli and Salvadori in 1869 (Sibley and Monroe 1990, 
p. 323).

Habitat and Life History

    In general, magenta petrels are considered pelagic, occurring on 
the open sea generally out of sight of land, where they feed year 
round. They return to nesting sites on islands during the breeding 
season where they nest in colonies (Pettingill 1970, p. 206). The 
limited feeding habits data show that the magenta petrel preys on squid 
(Heather and Robertson 1997, p. 218; BirdLife International 2008c).
    The magenta petrel breeds exclusively on Chatham Island, New 
Zealand, within relatively undisturbed inland forests (Crockett 1994, 
pp. 53, 56; Imber et al. 1994a, p. 14). It has been reported that prior 
to 1900, indigenous Moriori and Maori harvested large numbers of petrel 
chicks for food (Crockett 1994, p. 57).

Range and Distribution

    The range of the magenta petrel changes intra-annually based on an 
established breeding cycle. During the breeding season (September to 
May) (Imber et al. 1994b, p. 64; Taylor 1991, p. 8), breeding birds 
return to breeding colonies to breed and nest. During the nonbreeding 
season, birds migrate far from their breeding range where they remain 
at sea until returning to breed.
    BirdLife International (2008c) estimates the range of the magenta 
petrel to be 7,568,000 mi\2\ (1,960,000 km\2\); however, BirdLife 
International (2000, pp. 22, 27) defines ``range'' as the ``Extent of 
Occurrence, the area contained within the shortest continuous imaginary 
boundary which can be drawn to encompass all the known, inferred, or 
projected sites of present occurrence of a species,

[[Page 46926]]

excluding cases of vagrancy.'' Therefore, this reported range includes 
a large area of nonbreeding habitat (i.e., the sea).
    The magenta petrel breeds exclusively on Chatham Island, New 
Zealand (Crockett 1994, pp. 53, 56; Imber et al. 1994a, p. 14), the 
largest island in the Chatham Islands chain, covering 348 mi\2\ (900 
km\2\) (Oceandots n.d.). Based on fossil evidence and historical 
records, it is believed that the magenta petrel was once the most 
abundant burrowing seabird on Chatham Island (NZDOC 2001a, p. 5). The 
type specimen for the magenta petrel was first collected at sea in 
1867, and after 10 years of intensive searching the species was 
rediscovered in 1978 in the southeast corner of Chatham Island 
(Crockett 1994, pp. 50, 53). Since then, additional searches have 
resulted in the location and banding of 92 birds (BirdLife 
International 2008c).
    Between 1987 and 2007, the NZDOC located 25 sites occupied by 
nonbreeding birds, and at least 19 breeding burrows all located near 
the Tuku-a-Tamatea River (BirdLife International 2007b; Brooke 2004, p. 
352; Hilhorst 2000, p. 59; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). Although some 
breeding burrows are on private land (Taylor 2000, p. 139), the 
majority of known breeding burrows are located within the Tuku Nature 
Reserve (Reserve) (Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008d).
    The magenta petrel's range at sea is poorly known; however, 
research has documented foraging behavior south and east of the Chatham 
Islands (Howell 2005, as cited in BirdLife International 2008c; Imber 
et al. 1994a, p. 14; Taylor 2000, p. 139). In addition, because the 
original specimen of this species was shot at sea eastwards in the 
temperate South Pacific Ocean, it is believed birds disperse there 
during the nonbreeding season.

Population Estimates

    The magenta petrel population is extremely small, estimated at 120 
to 150 individuals based on population surveys (BirdLife International 
2008c; Hilhorst 2000, p. 59). Though the recent (1999-2007) discovery 
of new burrows and recruitment of birds banded as chicks back to the 
colony may indicate that the population has stabilized as a direct 
result of intensive management (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3), the long-
term trend for the species is decreasing due to predation by introduced 
species (BirdLife International 2008c; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3).

Conservation Status

    The magenta petrel is ranked as ``Nationally Critical'' by the New 
Zealand Department of Conservation, which is the highest threat 
category and signifies that the species has a very high risk of 
extinction in New Zealand (Hitchmough et al. 2005, p. 28; Townsend et 
al. 2008, p. 18). The species is considered ``Critically Endangered'' 
by IUCN because it has ``undergone an extremely rapid historical 
decline over three generations (60 years). It has an extremely small 
population and, although the long-term reduction in numbers may have 
begun to stabilize, it is premature to assume that there is not a 
continuing decline. Furthermore, it is restricted to just one extremely 
small location'' (BirdLife International 2008c).

Summary of Factors Affecting the Magenta Petrel

A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or Curtailment 
of the Species' Habitat or Range

    The range of the magenta petrel changes intra-annually based on an 
established breeding cycle. During the breeding season (September to 
May) (Imber et al. 1994b, p. 64; Taylor 1991, p. 8), breeding birds 
return to breeding colonies to breed and nest. During the nonbreeding 
season, birds migrate far from their breeding range, and they remain at 
sea until returning to breed. Therefore, our analysis of Factor A is 
separated into analyses of: (1) The species' breeding habitat and 
range; and (2) the species' nonbreeding habitat and range.
    The magenta petrel breeds exclusively on Chatham Island, New 
Zealand, within relatively undisturbed inland forests (Crockett 1994, 
pp. 53, 56; Imber et al. 1994a, p. 14). Between 1987 and 2007, the 
NZDOC located 25 sites occupied by nonbreeding birds, and at least 19 
breeding burrows all located near the Tuku-a-Tamatea River (BirdLife 
International 2007b; Brooke 2004, p. 352; Hilhorst 2000, p. 59; NZDOC, 
in litt. 2008, p. 2). Although some breeding burrows are on private 
land (Taylor 2000, p. 139), the majority of known breeding burrows are 
located within the Tuku Nature Reserve (Reserve) (Chatham Island Taiko 
Trust 2008d). This Reserve was established in 1984 to protect 2,900 ac 
(1,238 ha) of habitat for the magenta petrel and other native Chatham 
Island birds (Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008d). In 1993, 494 ac (200 
ha) of contiguous forested land was added to the Reserve by covenant 
(Sweetwater Covenant), and a second covenant expected to be approved in 
the near future will protect an additional 2,718 ac (1,100 ha) of 
habitat adjacent to the Reserve (Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008d).
    In our December 17, 2007, proposal (72 FR 71298), we identified 
logging on private lands to be a threat to magenta petrel nest sites. 
However, based on information provided by the NZDOC during the public 
comment period, we believe that this activity is not a significant 
threat to the magenta petrel (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). While 
breeding burrows have been located on private land, the risk of logging 
activities on these lands impacting magenta petrels is quite low 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). The unprotected breeding sites are more 
than 3 mi (5 km) from existing roads, and the private landowners are 
fully supportive of the protection of these birds and, therefore, 
unlikely to log the areas with breeding burrows (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, 
p. 2). The risk of logging on private land, therefore, is not a threat 
to the magenta petrel.
    On Chatham Island, the significant loss of magenta petrel burrows 
and colonies historically because of livestock grazing (Crockett 1994, 
p. 58) demonstrates that habitat alteration severely impacts magenta 
petrel populations. Natural fires are identified as a threat to the 
magenta petrel's breeding habitat (BirdLife International 2008c; NZDOC 
2001a, p. 7; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). Although the species' 
recovery plan identifies natural fires as a threat to the magenta 
petrel, it does not address mitigation of this threat (NZDOC 2001a, p. 
7). The NZDOC deals with an average of 160 fires in New Zealand each 
year, suggesting that fires are relatively common in New Zealand (NZDOC 
n.d.(b)). Taylor (2000, p. 139) and others (Aikman et al. 2001, as 
cited in BirdLife International 2008c; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2) 
identify natural flooding of burrows as a threat, given that most known 
burrows are in wet areas in valley floors. Taylor (2000, p. 139) also 
notes that destruction of nest sites by pigs and by dogs accompanying 
pig hunters near the burrows threatens the magenta petrel's breeding 
habitat. These threats to the magenta petrel's breeding habitat are 
magnified by the species' restricted habitat area on Chatham Island. 
Because of the very small number of breeding pairs, any loss of 
breeders from the population would increase the species' threat of 
extinction. Therefore, we find that the present or threatened 
destruction, modification, or curtailment of the magenta petrel's 
breeding habitat to be a significant threat to the species.
    The magenta petrel's range at sea is poorly known; however, 
research has documented foraging behavior south

[[Page 46927]]

and east of the Chatham Islands (Howell 2005, as cited in BirdLife 
International 2008c; Imber et al. 1994a, p. 14; Taylor 2000, p. 139). 
In addition, because the original specimen of this species was shot at 
sea eastwards in the temperate South Pacific Ocean, it is believed 
birds disperse there during the nonbreeding season. We are not aware of 
any present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of 
this species' current sea habitat or range.
Summary of Factor A
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that the present or 
threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of the species' 
breeding habitat is a threat to the continued existence of the magenta 
petrel.

B. Overutilization for Commercial, Recreational, Scientific, or 
Educational

Purposes
    We are not aware of any scientific or commercial information that 
indicates that overutilization of the magenta petrel for commercial, 
recreational, scientific, or educational purposes poses a threat to 
this species. As a result, we do not consider overutilization to be a 
contributing factor to the continued existence of the magenta petrel.

C. Disease or Predation

Disease
    Although several diseases have been documented in other species of 
petrels (see Factor C for the Chatham petrel), disease has not been 
documented in the magenta petrel. Therefore, we find that disease is 
not a threat to this species.
Predation
    The available information suggests that the most serious threat to 
the magenta petrel is predation on all life stages (eggs, chicks, and 
adults) of the species by introduced predators, including feral cats, 
pigs, rats, and weka (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). Permanent 
eradication of these introduced predators from Chatham Island is 
difficult due to the permanent habitation of humans on the island. 
Since the 1980s, however, the NZDOC has monitored known breeding 
burrows and has implemented an intensive predator control program, 
including setting extensive trap lines and poisoning to remove 
introduced predators from the magenta petrel's breeding areas (NZDOC, 
in litt. 2008, p. 2; Taylor 2000, pp. 140-142). This effort has 
significantly reduced the threat of predation on adult petrels, with 
only two being found dead in 20 years, as of the year 2000 (Taylor 
2000, p. 140). Loss of chicks by rat predation was a significant 
problem until 1996. Since then the NZDOC has implemented improved pest 
management techniques, and only one chick has been lost to predation in 
the last 11 years at monitored burrows (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). 
The risk to eggs, chicks, and adults at unmonitored sites (undiscovered 
breeding sites), however, is still very high. In 2001, an adult bird 
was found dead from cat predation in a newly discovered breeding site 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). As additional burrows have been located 
and protection from predation expanded over the years, breeding has 
increased and breeding success has improved. In 1994, only 4 breeding 
pairs were known, but in 2004, 15 breeding pairs were observed 
(Hilhorst 2000, p. 59; Taylor 2005, as cited in BirdLife International 
2007b). The breeding population in the 2007-2008 season was 16 pairs. 
Last year (2008) was the most successful year to date for the magenta 
petrel as a record 13 chicks fledged (Chatham Islands Conservation News 
2008g; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5). Seventeen chicks were known to have 
fledged between 1987 and 1999 (Taylor 2000, p. 138), and within a 
single year, 2002, a total of seven chicks fledged (BirdLife 
International 2007b). Eight chicks fledged in the 2005 season, 11 
magenta petrel chicks fledged in the 2006 season, and 8 chicks fledged 
in 2007 (Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2006; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5).
    Even though the predator control program has decreased the threat 
of predation to the magenta petrel, birds, especially chicks, are still 
killed by introduced predators, and only areas where petrels are known 
to breed are protected. Therefore, we find predation by introduced 
species to be a threat to the magenta petrel.
    We are unaware of any threats due to predation on magenta petrels 
during the nonbreeding season while the species is at sea.
Summary of Factor C
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that predation by nonnative 
predators, such as rats, feral cats, pigs, and weka, is a threat to the 
continued existence of the magenta petrel throughout all of its 
breeding range.

D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

    The magenta petrel is protected from disturbance and harvest under 
New Zealand's Wildlife Act of 1953 and its Reserves Act of 1977. The 
petrel is designated as ``Nationally Critical'' by the NZDOC, which is 
the highest threat category and signifies that the species has a very 
high risk of extinction in New Zealand (Hitchmough et al. 2005, p. 28; 
Townsend et al. 2008, p. 18). Access to the breeding sites is strictly 
controlled (permitted access only for scientific or management 
purposes). While some illegal visits may occur to the breeding sites, 
the burrows of this species are located far away from roads on remote 
trails (more than 1 hour walking distance), and are unlikely to be 
disturbed (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3).
    In 1998, the Chatham Island Taiko Trust was established to 
coordinate and administer the activities of the Chatham Island Taiko 
Expedition and personnel supporting research on the magenta petrel 
(Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008b). In addition, the NZDOC developed a 
10-year recovery plan for the magenta petrel in 2001, with the goals of 
preventing further loss of known breeding pairs, maximizing 
productivity at known breeding burrows, locating and protecting 
additional burrows, and establishing an additional predator-proof 
breeding area in southern Chatham Island (NZDOC 2001a, pp. 11-20). New 
Zealand has implemented management actions for the conservation of the 
species, including establishment of predator-proof breeding sites, 
hand-rearing and translocation of chicks to establish additional 
breeding sites, and broadcasting of magenta petrel calls to attract 
adults to protected breeding sites (Chatham Islands Conservation News 
2008a,f; Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008a-d; NZDOC 2001a; NZDOC, in 
litt. 2008, p. 5). A measure of success of the recovery plan has been 
demonstrated by the successful protection of breeding pairs and 
increased productivity resulting from predator control efforts (see 
Factor C). However, the threat of predation on magenta petrels by 
introduced species remains the greatest threat to the species.
    In 2006, a second protected area was established near the southern 
coast of Chatham Island at a location where magenta petrels were known 
to have bred in reasonable numbers 90 years ago. This 18.5-ac (7.5-ha) 
area, protected by landowner covenant, has been fenced to exclude 
livestock in an effort to allow the forest to recover. Within this 
fenced area, 7 ac (3 ha) are enclosed by a predator-proof fence. 
Loudspeakers were placed on the site, and pre-recorded magenta petrel 
calls are being played to attract young males to the ground, where it 
is hoped they will begin to dig burrows and eventually find a mate to 
breed. Remote cameras installed at the Sweetwater Covenant predator-
proof site captured the image

[[Page 46928]]

of an adult magenta petrel visiting the site in November 2007 (Chatham 
Islands Conservation News 2008f; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5). It is too 
early to know the success of this effort because it is anticipated that 
it will take several years for breeding to begin once young males start 
digging burrows. Captive rearing studies of the closely related grey-
faced petrel (Pterodroma macroptera gouldi) have been undertaken, and 
its diet analyzed, to develop methods for captive rearing of magenta 
petrels in captivity should it ever be necessary to `rescue' abandoned 
or malnourished magenta petrel chicks (Chatham Islands Conservation 
News 2008a,f; Chatham Island Taiko Trust 2008a-d; NZDOC 2001a, p. 13).
Summary of Factor D
    We believe the regulatory protections conferred by the New Zealand 
Wildlife and Reserves Acts in combination with the actions implemented 
for the protection and conservation of the magenta petrel by the New 
Zealand government under the 2001 recovery plan and by the Chatham 
Island Taiko Trust provide significant protection to the species. As a 
result, we believe that existing regulatory protections have 
significantly reduced the threats from predation by rats, cats, pigs, 
and weka. However, these threats still exist. Therefore, we find that 
the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms is a threat to the 
magenta petrel throughout its range.

E. Other Natural or Manmade Factors Affecting the Continued Existence 
of the Species

Small Population Size and Restricted Breeding Range
    The magenta petrel population is extremely small, estimated at 120 
to 150 individuals based on population surveys (BirdLife International 
2008c; Hilhorst 2000, p. 59). Though the recent (1999-2007) discovery 
of new burrows and recruitment of birds banded as chicks back to the 
colony may indicate that the population has stabilized as a direct 
result of intensive management (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3), the long-
term population trend for the species is decreasing due to predation by 
introduced species (BirdLife International 2008c; NZDOC, in litt. 2008, 
p. 3). The fact that it took 10 years of intensive searching to 
rediscover the species in 1978 is an indication of the rarity of the 
species.
    Small population sizes render species vulnerable to any of several 
risks, including inbreeding depression, loss of genetic variation, and 
accumulation of new mutations. Inbreeding can have individual or 
population-level consequences either by increasing the phenotypic 
expression (the outward appearance or observable structure, function, 
or behavior of a living organism) of recessive, deleterious alleles or 
by reducing the overall fitness of individuals in the population 
(Charlesworth and Charlesworth 1987, p. 231; Shaffer 1981, p. 131). 
Small, isolated populations of wildlife species are also susceptible to 
demographic problems (Shaffer 1981, p. 131), which may include reduced 
reproductive success of individuals and chance disequilibrium of sex 
ratios.
    In the absence of more species-specific life history data, the 50/
500 rule (as explained under Factor E for the Fiji petrel) may be used 
to approximate minimum viable population sizes. The magenta petrel 
population is extremely small, estimated at 120 to 150 individuals 
based on population surveys (BirdLife International 2008c; Hilhorst 
2000, p. 59). Although the estimated number of individuals is above the 
minimum effective population size (Ne = 50 individuals) 
required to avoid imminent risks from inbreeding according to the 50/
500 rule, during the public comment period on our December 17, 2007, 
proposal (72 FR 71298), we received new species-specific information 
regarding the threat of inbreeding depression in magenta petrels. The 
NZDOC (in litt. 2008, p. 5) informed us that a recent conservation 
genetics study revealed that the magenta petrel gene pool is still 
fairly diverse but that the tendency for returning chicks to nest close 
to their natal burrows greatly increases the risk of close relatives 
interbreeding. The NZDOC has found that in recent seasons where close 
relatives have interbred, magenta petrels had poor fertility rates 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 5). Furthermore, the estimated number of 
magenta petrels falls well below the upper threshold (Ne = 
500) required for long-term fitness of a population that will not lose 
its genetic diversity over time and that will maintain an enhanced 
capacity to adapt to changing conditions. As such, we currently 
consider the magenta petrel to be at risk due to lack of near- and 
long-term viability.
    Species with such small population sizes are at greater risk of 
extinction. In general, the fewer the number of populations and the 
smaller the size of each population, the higher the probability of 
extinction (Franklin 1980, pp. 147-148; Gilpin and Soul[eacute] 1986, 
p. 25; Meffe and Carroll 1996, pp. 218-219; Pimm et al. 1998, pp. 757-
785; Raup 1991, pp. 124-127; Soul[eacute] 1987, p. 181). This species' 
risk of extinction is compounded by its restricted breeding range, 
which is limited to Chatham Island. Based on what is known about the 
species, the breeding habitat available on Chatham Island is a 
relatively small area, particularly since breeding pairs, eggs, and 
nestlings on Chatham Island continue to be threatened by introduced 
species such as feral cats and rats.
Stochastic Events
    The magenta petrel's restricted breeding range combined with its 
colonial nesting habits and small population size of 120 to 150 birds 
makes the species particularly vulnerable to the threat of adverse 
random, naturally occurring events (e.g., storms, fire) that destroy 
breeding individuals and their breeding habitat (NZDOC 2001a, p. 7; 
NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). Fire is a high risk in the Chatham Islands 
because the climate is very dry during the summer, and the vegetation 
becomes tinder dry. Burrow-nesting species such as the magenta petrel 
are at a high risk because they are likely to suffocate from smoke 
inhalation or to be lethally burned inside or while attempting to 
escape from their burrows (Taylor 2000, p. 24).
    Another natural disaster, severe storms, has impacted New Zealand 
historically (see Factor E for the Chatham petrel), and so the 
likelihood of future impacts of storms is high. Although we are unaware 
of the impact of previous cyclones on the magenta petrel's population 
numbers or breeding habitat, the severity of the wind or windfalls 
created by such storms or flooding from rising streams associated with 
storms has the potential to significantly damage magenta petrel burrows 
(NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3). These known burrows are particularly 
vulnerable to flooding because they are located on valley floors (NZDOC 
2001a, p. 7).
    While species with more extensive breeding ranges or higher 
population numbers could recover from adverse random, naturally 
occurring events such as fires or storms, the magenta petrel does not 
have such resiliency. Its very small population size and restricted 
breeding range puts the species at higher risk for experiencing the 
irreversible adverse effects of random, naturally occurring events. 
While one such event may not destroy the entire known breeding 
population on Chatham Island, it may significantly impact any eggs and 
birds in residence at the time of the storm (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 
3). Therefore, we find a combination of factors--the species' small 
population

[[Page 46929]]

size, the species' restricted breeding range, and the likelihood of 
adverse random, naturally occurring events--to be a significant threat 
to the magenta petrel.
Summary of Factor E
    On the basis of this analysis, we find that due to the species' 
very small population size and restricted breeding range, the continued 
existence of the magenta petrel is threatened by inbreeding depression 
and adverse random, naturally occurring events (e.g., storms, fire) 
that destroy breeding individuals and their breeding habitat.

Status Determination for the Magenta Petrel

    We have carefully assessed the best available scientific and 
commercial information regarding the past, present, and potential 
future threats faced by the magenta petrel. The species is at risk 
throughout all of its range primarily due to predation by introduced 
species such as rats, feral cats and pigs, and weka (Factor C). These 
introduced predators are known to destroy magenta petrel eggs, chicks, 
and adults, reducing the species' population (NZDOC 2001a, p. 7; NZDOC, 
in litt. 2008, pp. 2-3), which is already very small (estimated at 120 
to 150 individuals). The NZDOC has been actively working to protect 
magenta petrel nest sites from predation by introduced species, and 
only one chick has been lost to predation in the last 11 years at 
monitored burrows (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 2). However, the risk to 
eggs, chicks, and adults at unmonitored sites (breeding burrows that 
have not yet been located) is still very high.
    The regulatory protections conferred by the New Zealand Wildlife 
and Reserves Acts, in combination with the actions implemented for the 
protection and conservation of the magenta petrel by the New Zealand 
government under the 2001 recovery plan and by the Chatham Island Taiko 
Trust, have significantly reduced the threats from predation by 
introduced species. However, these threats still exist, and despite the 
efforts undertaken in New Zealand to address the threats to the magenta 
petrel, the species has not recovered (Factor D).
    The threat of predation by introduced species is magnified by the 
fact that only a limited amount of breeding habitat is protected from 
habitat alteration or destruction (Factor A). However, the breeding 
habitat that is protected remains at risk from accidental fires and 
stochastic events such as storm-related windfalls and flooding (Factor 
E).
    The magenta petrel's low population size of 120 to 150 individuals 
puts the species at a high risk of extinction due to the lack of near- 
and long-term viability (Factor E). The low population size combined 
with its restricted breeding habitat and colonial nesting habits makes 
the species particularly vulnerable to the threat of random, naturally 
occurring events (e.g., fire, cyclones) that are known to occur in New 
Zealand and have the potential to destroy breeding individuals and 
their breeding habitat (Factor E). One such event, such as a cyclone 
during the nesting season, could significantly impact eggs and birds in 
residence at the time of the storm (NZDOC, in litt. 2008, p. 3).
    Inbreeding depression is a potentially significant threat to the 
magenta petrel (Factor E). A recent genetics study revealed that the 
magenta petrel gene pool appears to be fairly diverse, although the 
tendency for returning chicks to nest close to their natal burrows 
greatly increases the risk of close relatives interbreeding (NZDOC, in 
litt. 2008, p. 5).
    Section 3 of the Act defines an ``endangered species'' as ``any 
species which is in danger of extinction throughout all or a 
significant portion of its range'' and a ``threatened species'' as 
``any species which is likely to become an endangered species within 
the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range.'' Because the survival of the magenta petrel is dependent on 
recruitment of chicks in its breeding range, the severity of threats to 
the species within its breeding range, as described above, puts the 
species in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. Therefore, 
on the basis of the best available scientific and commercial 
information, we determine that the magenta petrel meets the Act's 
definition of endangered and warrants protection as an endangered 
species under the Act.

Available Conservation Measures

    Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or 
threatened under the Act include recognition, requirements for Federal 
protection, and prohibitions against certain practices. Recognition 
through listing results in public awareness and encourages and results 
in conservation actions by Federal and State governments, private 
agencies and groups, and individuals.
    Section 7(a) of the Act, as amended, and as implemented by 
regulations at 50 CFR part 402, requires Federal agencies to evaluate 
their actions within the United States or on the high seas with respect 
to any species that is proposed or listed as endangered or threatened, 
and with respect to its critical habitat, if any is being designated. 
However, given that the Chatham petrel, Fiji petrel, and magenta petrel 
are not native to the United States, we are not designating critical 
habitat in this rule.
    Section 8(a) of the Act authorizes the provision of limited 
financial assistance for the development and management of programs 
that the Secretary of the Interior determines to be necessary or useful 
for the conservation of endangered and threatened species in foreign 
countries. Sections 8(b) and 8(c) of the Act authorize the Secretary to 
encourage conservation programs for foreign endangered and threatened 
species and to provide assistance for such programs in the form of 
personnel and the training of personnel.
    The Act and its implementing regulations set forth a series of 
general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to all endangered 
wildlife. As such, these prohibitions would be applicable to the 
Chatham petrel, Fiji petrel, and magenta petrel. These prohibitions, 
under 50 CFR 17.21, in part, make it illegal for any person subject to 
the jurisdiction of the United States to ``take'' (take includes 
harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or 
collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct) within the United 
States or upon the high seas; import or export; deliver, receive, 
carry, transport, or ship in interstate or foreign commerce in the 
course of commercial activity; or sell or offer for sale in interstate 
or foreign commerce any endangered or threatened wildlife species. It 
also is illegal to possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, or ship 
any such wildlife that has been taken in violation of the Act. Certain 
exceptions apply to agents of the Service and State conservation 
agencies.
    Permits may be issued to carry out otherwise prohibited activities 
involving endangered and threatened wildlife species under certain 
circumstances. Regulations governing permits are codified at 50 CFR 
17.22 for endangered species. With regard to endangered wildlife, a 
permit may be issued for the following purposes: for scientific 
purposes, to enhance the propagation or survival of the species, and 
for incidental take in connection with otherwise lawful activities.

Required Determinations

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    This rule does not contain any new collections of information that 
require approval by the Office of Management

[[Page 46930]]

and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et 
seq.). This rule will not impose new recordkeeping or reporting 
requirements on State or local governments, individuals, businesses, or 
organizations. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is 
not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it 
displays a currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    We have determined that Environmental Assessments and Environmental 
Impact Statements, as defined under the authority of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), need not be 
prepared in connection with regulations adopted under section 4(a) of 
the Act. We published a notice outlining our reasons for this 
determination in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 
49244).

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited in this rule is available 
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or upon request from the 
Branch of Listing, Endangered Species Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service (see ADDRESSES).

Author

    The primary authors of this final rule are staff members of the 
Division of Scientific Authority, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

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

Regulation Promulgation

0
Accordingly, we amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 of 
the Code of Federal Regulations, as follows:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

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


0
2. Amend Sec.  17.11(h) by adding new entries for ``Petrel, Chatham,'' 
``Petrel, Fiji,'' and ``Petrel, magenta'' in alphabetical order under 
``Birds'' to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife as follows:


Sec.  17.11  Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Species                                              Vertebrate population
-------------------------------------------------    Historic range        where endangered or        Status       When      Critical      Special rules
       Common name            Scientific name                                   threatened                        listed      habitat
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
          Birds
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Petrel, Chatham..........  Pterodroma axillaris.  Pacific Ocean--New    Entire...................  E...........      763  NA............  NA
                                                   Zealand (Chatham
                                                   Islands).
Petrel, Fiji.............  Pseudobulweria         Pacific Ocean--Fiji   Entire...................  E...........      763  NA............  NA
                            macgillivrayi.         (Gau Island).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Petrel, magenta..........  Pterodroma magentae..  Pacific Ocean--New    Entire...................  E...........      763  NA............  NA
                                                   Zealand (Chatham
                                                   Islands).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Dated: August 31, 2009.
Daniel M. Ashe,
Deputy Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. E9-22033 Filed 9-11-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P