SUMMARY 



Surveys of Harlequin Duck habitat were conducted during June 

 through August 1991 in the wilderness portion of the Flathead 

 National Forest. Over 220 miles (352 km) of stream were 

 surveyed, yielding six sightings of Harlequin Ducks, totaling 13 

 individuals and two broods. In addition, eight other sightings 

 in the study area were reported by Forest Service staff and 

 private citizens. Most sightings occurred in the drainage of the 

 South Fork of the Flathead River. Harlequin Ducks are localized 

 and uncommon throughout the area. Descriptive data on stream 

 characteristics such as loafing sites, streambed composition, 

 stream-bank vegetation, and flow rates are presented. Record 

 high spring runoff was recorded in the Flathead River and 

 throughout western Montana during 1991. This reduced brood 

 production to less than 15% of pairs attempting to nest 

 statewide, thus contributing to the already limited productivity 

 of the Harlequin Duck. Despite the low brood numbers, wilderness 

 portions of the Flathead National Forest - particularly 

 tributaries and main-stem waters of the South Fork and Middle 

 Fork of the Flathead River - are identified as significant 

 nesting and rearing areas for Harlequin Ducks in western Montana. 

 Potential management challenges to maintaining this breeding 

 population are discussed. 



