METHODS 



Harlequin Duck summer habitat has been defined by Wallen and 

 Groves (1989) as low gradient mountain creeks and rivers that are 

 greater than 10 meters wide, lined by dense vegetation along 

 their streambanks and contain high quality water. Streams 

 surveyed were selected using these criteria, recommendations by 

 Montana Natural Heritage Program Staff, and reported sightings of 

 Harlequin Ducks in the FNF . The study began on June 24 and ended 

 on August 28, 1991 . 



Three types of surveys were utilized: dry land, floating, 

 and wading. Early in the study, when streams were in their flood 

 stage, wading and floating were not possible, and land surveys 

 (i.e. walking and bushwacking along streambanks) were most 

 practical. Later, as water levels dropped and currents quieted, 

 wading and floating became possible. Both wading and floating 

 were far more accurate than land surveys. During land surveys 

 the observer's view of the stream was often obstructed by 

 vegetation and other obstacles. Hens and young birds will 

 occasionally hang close to the bank, thus avoiding detection from 

 the land. 



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