269 
WATERFOWL BREEDING GROUND SURVEY IN SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY 
F. V. Schmidt, P. D. McLain and F, Ferrigno 
Introduction 

The objectives of the breeding ground survey conducted in southern 
New Jersey during the spring and early summer of 1952 were as follows: 
A. To gather data for the estimation of a production index 
by the aerial transect method, 
B. To continue ground observations on the Tuckahoe and 
Egg island areas in order to determine annual trends 
in production, 
CG. To compare results obtained by aerial and ground 
observations of broods on the same transect, 
D. To record additional pertinent information in regard to 
waterfowl nesting and production. 
The aerial transect method was first carried out in New Jersey in 1951 ona 
reconnaissance basis. Transects were established in the various strata of the 
State based on Braun's ecological classification. A sample design was drawn up 
by Mr. Earl L. Atwood, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Biometrician. The 
results obtained in 1951 by this sampling method permitted the elimination of those 
strata having populations below which it is feasible to sample. Accordingly, only 
the ditched tidal marsh, unditched tidal marsh, and the Atlantic Slope Section of 
the oak-pine region were sampled in 1952. 
Ground observations on broods have been carried out in the fresh water 
impoundments at Tuckahoe since 1947 in order to determine trends in production. 
It must be pointed out, however, that the impoundments are being managed 
experimentally and such important factors affecting nesting and brood production 
as water levels and existing vegetation may vary considerably from year to year. 
Ground observations on broods were also conducted at Egg Island on transects 
representing a 20 percent sample of the area in 1951 and 1952. Additional data 
on the nesting population was also recorded. 
Methods Used in Sampling, and Area Covered 
Aerial Transect 
All observations on the aerial transects were confined to a 1/8-mile segment. 
Altitudes from which observations were made varied from 50 to 300 feet. The 
planes utilized in this work were single engined Aeroncas. 
The recommendation was made that all observations be carried out during 
the period 1/2 hour before sunrise to two and 1/2 hours after sunrise, and from 
3 hours before sunset to sunset. In 1951 it was impossible to combine the 
flights to these periods as early morning fog and afternoon thundershowers were 
prevalent at the time the brood counts were carried out. Favorable weather 
conditions were encountered in 1952, 
