Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Four Foreign Parrot Species, 49202-49236 [2011-19532]

Agencies

• Fish and Wildlife Service
• DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 153 (Tuesday, August 9, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 49202-49236]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-19532]



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Vol. 76

Tuesday,

No. 153

August 9, 2011

Part III





Department Of The Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service





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50 CFR Part 17





Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Four Foreign Parrot 
Species; Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 153 / Tuesday, August 9, 2011 / 
Proposed Rules

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R9-ES-2010-0099; MO 92210-0-0010 B6]
RIN 1018-AX50


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Four Foreign 
Parrot Species

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule; 12-month finding.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to 
list as endangered the Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia) and 
the yellow-crested cockatoo (C. sulphurea), and to list as threatened 
the white cockatoo (C. alba), under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, 
as amended (ESA). We are taking this action in response to a petition 
to list the following four parrot species: Crimson shining parrot 
(Prosopeia splendens), Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), 
white cockatoo (C. alba), and yellow-crested cockatoo (C. sulphurea) as 
endangered or threatened under the ESA. This document, which also 
serves as the completion of the status review and as the 12-month 
finding on the petition, announces our finding that listing is not 
warranted for the crimson shining parrot. We also propose a special 
rule for the white cockatoo in conjunction with our proposed listing as 
threatened for this species. We seek information from the public on the 
proposed listing, proposed special rule, and status review for these 
species.

DATES: We will consider comments and information received or postmarked 
on or before October 11, 2011.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments by one of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. 
Follow the instructions for submitting comments on Docket No. FWS-R9-
ES-2010-0099.
     U.S. mail or hand-delivery: Public Comments Processing, 
Attn: FWS-R9-ES-2010-0099, Division of Policy and Directives 
Management; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MS 
2042-PDM; Arlington, VA 22203.
    We will not accept comments by e-mail or fax. We will post all 
comments on https://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we 
will post any personal information you provide us (see the Information 
Requested section below for more information).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Janine Van Norman, Chief, Branch of 
Foreign Species, Endangered Species Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Room 420, Arlington, VA 22203; 
telephone 703-358-2171. 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)(B) of the ESA (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) requires 
that, for any petition to revise the Federal Lists of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife and Plants that contains substantial scientific or 
commercial information that listing the species may be warranted, we 
make a finding within 12 months of the date of receipt of the petition 
(``12-month finding''). In this finding, we determine whether the 
petitioned action is: (a) Not warranted, (b) warranted, or (c) 
warranted, but immediate proposal of a regulation implementing the 
petitioned action is precluded by other pending proposals to determine 
whether species are endangered or threatened, and expeditious progress 
is being made to add or remove qualified species from the Federal Lists 
of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. Section 4(b)(3)(C) of 
the ESA requires that we treat a petition for which the requested 
action is found to be warranted but precluded as though resubmitted on 
the date of such finding, that is, requiring a subsequent finding to be 
made within 12 months. We must publish these 12-month findings in the 
Federal Register.
    If the listing of a species is found to be warranted but precluded 
by higher-priority listing actions, then the petition to list that 
species is treated as if it is a petition that is resubmitted on the 
date of the finding and is, therefore, subject to a new 12-month 
finding within one year. 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.
    In this document, we announce that listing Philippine cockatoo and 
yellow-crested cockatoo as endangered is warranted, and we are issuing 
a proposed rule to add those species as endangered under the Federal 
Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. We find that 
listing the crimson shining parrot as endangered or threatened is not 
warranted. We further find that listing white cockatoo as threatened is 
warranted, and we are issuing a proposed rule to add that species as 
threatened under the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened 
Wildlife and Plants.
    Prior to issuing a final rule on this proposed action, we will take 
into consideration all comments and any additional information we 
receive. Such information may lead to a final rule that differs from 
this proposal. All comments and recommendations, including names and 
addresses of commenters, will become part of the administrative record.

Previous Federal Actions

Petition History

    On January 31, 2008, the Service received a petition dated January 
29, 2008, from Friends of Animals, as represented by the Environmental 
Law Clinic, University of Denver, Sturm College of Law, requesting we 
list 14 parrot species under the ESA. The petition clearly identified 
itself as a petition and included the requisite information required in 
the Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR 424.14(a)). On July 14, 2009 
(74 FR 33957), we published a 90-day finding in which we determined 
that the petition presented substantial scientific and commercial 
information to indicate that listing may be warranted for 12 of the 14 
parrot species. In our 90-day finding on this petition, we announced 
the initiation of a status review to list as endangered or threatened 
under the ESA the following 12 parrot species: Blue-headed macaw 
(Primolius couloni), crimson shining parrot (Prosopeia splendens), 
great green macaw (Ara ambiguus), grey-cheeked parakeet (Brotogeris 
pyrrhoptera), hyacinth macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus), military 
macaw (Ara militaris), Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), 
red-crowned parrot (Amazona viridigenalis), scarlet macaw (Ara macao), 
white cockatoo (Cacatua alba), yellow-billed parrot (Amazona collaria), 
and yellow-crested cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea). We initiated the 
status review to determine if listing each of the 12 species is 
warranted, and initiated a 60-day public comment period to allow all 
interested parties an opportunity to provide information on the status 
of these 12 species of parrots. The public comment period closed on 
September 14, 2009.
    On July 21, 2010, a settlement agreement was approved by the Court 
(CV-10-357, D. D.C.), in which the Service agreed to (in part) submit 
to the Federal Register by July 29, 2011, a determination whether the 
petitioned action is warranted, not warranted, or warranted but 
precluded by other listing actions for no less than four of the

[[Page 49203]]

petitioned species. This Federal Register document complies with the 
first deadline in that court-ordered settlement agreement. We will 
announce the 12-month findings for the remaining parrot species for 
which a 90-day finding was made on July 14, 2009 (74 FR 33957) in 
subsequent Federal Register notices.

Information Requested

    We intend that any final actions resulting from this proposed rule 
will be based on the best scientific and commercial data available. 
Therefore, we request comments or information from other concerned 
governmental agencies, the scientific community, or any other 
interested parties concerning this proposed rule. We particularly seek 
clarifying information concerning:
    (1) Information on taxonomy, distribution, habitat selection and 
trends (especially breeding and foraging habitats), diet, and 
population abundance and trends (especially current recruitment data) 
of these species.
    (2) Information on the effects of habitat loss and changing land 
uses on the distribution and abundance of these species (particularly 
the conversion of habitat to biofuel production on Halmahera Island and 
any data on Bacan Island related to the white cockatoo).
    (3) Information on the effects of other potential threat factors, 
including live capture and hunting, domestic and international trade, 
predation by other animals, and any diseases that are known to affect 
these species or their principal food sources.
    (4) Information on management programs for parrot conservation, 
including mitigation measures related to conservation programs, and any 
other private, nongovernmental, or governmental conservation programs 
that benefit these species.
    (5) The potential effects of climate change on these species and 
their habitats.
    Please include sufficient information with your submission (such as 
full references) to allow us to verify any scientific or commercial 
information you include. Submissions merely stating support for or 
opposition to the action under consideration without providing 
supporting information, although noted, will not be considered in 
making a determination. Section 4(b)(1)(A) of the ESA directs that 
determinations as to whether any species is an endangered or threatened 
species must be made ``solely on the basis of the best scientific and 
commercial data available.''

Public Hearing

    At this time, we do not have a public hearing scheduled for this 
proposed rule. The main purpose of most public hearings is to obtain 
public testimony or comment. In most cases, it is sufficient to submit 
comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal, described above in the 
ADDRESSES section. If you would like to request a public hearing for 
this proposed rule, you must submit your request, in writing, to the 
person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section by 
September 23, 2011.

Factors Affecting the Species

    Section 4 of the ESA (16 U.S.C. 1533) and implementing regulations 
(50 CFR 424) set forth procedures for adding species to the Federal 
Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. Under section 
4(a)(1) of the ESA, a species may be determined to be endangered or 
threatened based on any one or a combination of the following five 
factors:
    (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; or
    (E) Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued 
existence.
    In considering what factors might constitute threats, we look 
beyond the actual or perceived exposure of the species to the factor to 
determine how the species responds to the factor and whether the factor 
causes actual impacts to the species. If there is exposure to a factor, 
but no response, or only a positive response, that factor is not a 
threat. If there is exposure and the species responds negatively, the 
factor may be a threat and we then attempt to determine how significant 
a factor it is. If the factor is significant, it may drive or 
contribute to the risk of extinction of the species such that it is 
considered to be a threat. In some cases, there is little information 
available regarding the status of the species, in part due to their 
remoteness.
    This finding addresses the following four species of parrots: 
crimson shining parrot, Philippine cockatoo, white cockatoo, and 
yellow-crested cockatoo. For each of these parrots, we evaluate the 
five factors under ESA Section 4(a)(1) on the species. In some cases, 
we found under a factor that a threat was contributing to the 
extinction risk for multiple species, while some factors constituted a 
threat for some of the species but not others. In some cases, the 
factors affecting species are the same or very similar and in other 
cases the factors are unique. In each evaluation, we clearly identify 
what species is being addressed, and if the threat applies to more than 
one species.

Species Information

A. Crimson Shining Parrot (Prosopeia splendens)

Taxonomy and Species Description

    The crimson shining parrot (Prosopeia splendens, Peale, 1848) is 
endemic to Fiji, where it is found in forests, on agricultural lands, 
and around human habitation (International Union for Conservation of 
Nature (IUCN) 2008). Its most closely related species are P. personata 
(G. R. Gray, 1848), masked shining parrot, which occurs on Viti Levu; 
and P. tabuensis (Gmelin, 1788), maroon (red) shining parrot, which 
occurs on Vanua Levu and Taveuni. P. splendens and these two other 
species are recognized by the Integrated Taxonomic Information System 
(ITIS) (ITIS 2011, https://www.itis.gov) as valid species. Absent peer-
reviewed information to the contrary and based on the best available 
information, we consider P. splendens to be a valid species.
    The crimson shining parrot's head, neck, and underparts are a 
bright red. It is a medium-sized parrot, with a length of 45 
centimeters (cm) (18 inches (in)). It has been observed in flocks of up 
to 40 birds in the past, but more recently in flocks of up to 12 birds. 
During the day, this species is generally quiet and becomes vocal 
towards dusk, at which time it becomes more active. A blue collar 
extends across the back of its neck; its back and rump are bright 
green. Its flight feathers and tail are green, strongly covered with 
blue. Its bill and feet are black, and its irises are orange. Males and 
females are similar morphologically; however, the bill of males is 
larger, and the head of males is more square-shaped than females. It 
differs from the maroon shining parrot in its size and coloration; 
crimson shining parrots are generally smaller than maroon shining 
parrots. Rump feathers on the crimson shining parrot do not have the 
red edges that can be seen on the maroon shining parrot. The main 
visible features that distinguish the crimson shining parrot from the 
masked shining parrot and the maroon shining parrot are the scarlet 
rather than maroon underparts and the blue collar at the back of the 
neck.

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Distribution, Habitat, Biology

    There is little to no information available regarding this species. 
The crimson shining parrot, also known as the Kadavu musk parrot, is 
endemic to the islands of Kadavu and Ono in Fiji. These two islands are 
separated by a narrow channel, often navigated by kayaks and other 
small boats. This species has also been reported on the island of Viti 
Levu in the Upper Navua Conservation Area (Tokaduadu 2008, pp. 5, 7), 
where they are thought to be escaped pet birds. There are no known 
records of this species successfully breeding other than on the islands 
of Kadavu and Ono (https://www.NatureFiji.org, accessed January 4, 
2011). The island of Kadavu is remarkable in that it has the highest 
number of endemic birds per land area in the world. It hosts two areas 
designated by Birdlife International (BLI) as Important Bird Areas 
(IBAs), including Mount Nabukelevu which is located on the southwestern 
end of Kadavu Island. Mt. Nabukelevu, has the largest area of montane 
forest on the island. These IBAs are a way to identify conservation 
priorities (BLI 2008j, pp. 1-2) and are considered to be globally 
important areas for the conservation of bird populations. A site is 
recognized as an IBA based on the occurrence of key bird species that 
are vulnerable to global extinction or whose populations are otherwise 
irreplaceable. These key sites for conservation are small enough to be 
conserved in their entirety and large enough to support self-sustaining 
populations of the key bird species. Mount Nabukelevu's montane forest 
is critical for five globally threatened bird species, including the 
crimson shining parrot (BLI 2011d, p. 1; BLI 2010c, p. 1).
    Very little is known about the ecology of this species in the wild 
(NatureFiji 2011, pp. 1-2). Although in captivity this species has been 
known to exhibit aggression in males, it is a social species in the 
wild (Lin and Lee 2006, p. 188). It has been observed in flocks of up 
to approximately 40 birds (Tabaranza 1992 as cited in BLI 2001, p. 
1679) but more recently it has been observed in flocks of up to 12 
individuals. Flocking is thought to serve several purposes including 
mate selection, and learning food sources and eating techniques 
(Cameron 2007, pp. 115, 144)
    In 2004, the population estimate was 6,000 mature birds, with a 
declining population (Jackson and Jit 2004 in BLI 2010a, p. 1). 
However, the species' population estimate was inferred from population 
surveys conducted on another species, the Masked Shining-Parrot 
(Prosopeia personata) (BLI 2010a, pp. 1-2). Surveys found that the 
crimson shining parrot occurred at similar population densities as that 
of the masked shining parrot. In two BirdLife International surveys, 86 
crimson shining parrots were recorded in 38 standardized observer-
hours, similar to the mean of 1.9 masked shining parrots per hour 
recorded at 18 sites across Viti Levu (BLI 2010a, pp. 1-2). Masked 
shining parrots were estimated to occur at approximately 29 birds per 
km\2\ in lowland native forest. The 2004 crimson shining parrot 
population was estimated using the density of masked shining parrots 
and the estimated 225 km\2\ (87 mi\2\) area of dense and medium-dense 
forest on Kadavu (Jackson and Jit 2004 in BLI 2010a, p. 1). However, we 
do not have detailed information about how the surveys on Kadavu were 
conducted; they may have occurred at a time when the species is not 
active or visible. There is no evidence that the survey protocol used 
is appropriate to infer the population density of this species. Nor is 
there evidence suggesting the two species have the same ecological 
characteristics, levels of disturbance, and habitat requirements. For 
example, Viti Levu has a more dense human population than that on the 
islands of Kadavu and Ono, and human population density often directly 
influences species population density. Additionally, we do not know the 
historical population of the crimson shining parrot; this species may 
never have had a large population, as it is only known to be endemic to 
Kadavu and Ono Islands, so we do not know if this species has 
experienced a decrease in population size or if its population has been 
fairly consistent. Furthermore, species that are endemic to islands 
tend to have smaller population sizes due to a smaller carrying 
capacity of the island. This species is described as being ``widespread 
and common'' on Kadavu and population information on the East Kadavu 
IBA also lists this species as common (BLI 2011a, p. 1; BLI 2011f, 
unpaginated). Additionally, notes from a 2006 birding trip report 
indicate that the crimson shining parrot would be ``hard to miss'' on 
Kadavu (Skevington and Mathieson 2006, unpaginated). Although the best 
scientific information available indicates the population of crimson 
shining parrots number 6,000 individuals, there is no historical 
population data to indicate this species has declined or is currently 
declining. Given the reports from BirdLife International (BLI 2011a, p. 
1; BLI 2011f, unpaginated) and the lack of support for a declining 
population, we consider the crimson shining parrot to be common on 
Kadavu.
    Its range is estimated to be 460 km\2\ (178 mi\2\). However, BLI 
(2000, pp. 22, 27) defines a species' ``range'' as the ``extent of 
occurrence,'' which is ``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.''
    Kadavu is the fourth largest of Fiji's islands, at 410 km\2\ (158 
mi\2\). Kadavu has a human population of 8,700 people and is a 
mountainous, rugged island with high peaks and precipitous cliffs (Fiji 
Guide 2011). There are few roads and is therefore mainly accessible by 
boat. The Kadavu Island group is 83 km (45 nautical miles) south of 
Viti-Levu, Fiji's main island. Kadavu is rugged and mountainous with 
few roads. The Kadavu Island group also includes nearby Ono Island, off 
the eastern tip of Kadavu, as well as a number of smaller islands. Ono 
is 30 km\2\ (12 mi\2\) in size (Planetary Coral Reef Foundation (PCRF) 
2010). This island group has 12,000 Fijians living in 72 traditional 
village communities (PCRF 2010), and there is one airstrip. The primary 
means of income is subsistence agriculture and fishing.

Conservation Status for the Crimson Shining Parrot

    Fiji is actively involved in forest protection efforts; a new 
Forest Policy was adopted in 2007 (Fiji Ministry of Fisheries and 
Forestry 2009, p. 1). Crimson shining parrot is also protected by 
Fiji's Endangered and Protected Species (EPS) Act of 2002. 
Additionally, Fiji's first national nongovernmental organization (NGO), 
Nature Fiji, was established recently, and its goal is conservation of 
its wildlife. Nature Fiji is working closely with BLI to develop a 
conservation program to protect endangered wildlife in Fiji such as the 
crimson shining parrot.
    In 1981, the crimson shining parrot was listed in Appendix II of 
the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild 
Fauna and Flora (CITES). At that time, almost all Psittaciformes 
species (i.e., parrots) were included in Appendix II. CITES is an 
international agreement where member countries work together to ensure 
that international trade in CITES-listed animals and plants is not 
detrimental to the survival of wild populations. This is achieved by 
regulating import, export, and re-export of CITES-listed animal and 
plant species and their parts and products through the use of a 
permitting system (https://

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www.cites.org). CITES entered into force in 1975, and is an 
international treaty among 175 nations, including Fiji and the United 
States. In the United States, CITES is implemented through the U.S. 
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et 
seq.).
    Appendix II includes species that are not necessarily threatened 
with extinction, but may become so unless trade is subject to strict 
regulation to avoid utilization incompatible with the species' 
survival. International trade in specimens (dead or live) of Appendix 
II species is authorized through permits or certificates. International 
trade in specimens of Appendix II species is authorized when: (1) The 
CITES Scientific Authority of the country of export has determined that 
the export will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in 
the wild; and (2) the CITES Management Authority of the country of 
export has determined that the specimens to be exported were legally 
acquired (UNEP-WCMC 2008a, p. 1).
    In 1988, the crimson shining parrot was described by the IUCN as 
lower risk/least concern, and the status changed to vulnerable in 2000 
(IUCN 2008; BLI 2010a), which is its current IUCN classification. The 
authority for compilation of information and determining the 
appropriate risk extinction category for bird species on the IUCN Red 
List is Birdlife International, and is cited frequently throughout this 
document. However, IUCN rankings do not confer any actual protection or 
management.

Evaluation of Factors Affecting the Crimson Shining Parrot

    This section contains an assessment in which we evaluate the 
effects of any of the five factors listed in section 4(a)(1) of the ESA 
on the species. Listing actions may be warranted based on whether any 
of the five factors under section 4(a)(1), singly or in combination, 
places the species in danger of extinction now or in the foreseeable 
future. Each evaluation is specific to this species identified unless 
we specify that the evaluation is for more than one species.

Factor A. The Present or Threatened Destruction, Modification, or 
Curtailment of Its Habitat or Range

    There is little to no evidence of destruction, modification, or 
curtailment of this species' habitat, in fact, there is recent evidence 
of reforestation efforts and conservation of the species' habitat 
taking place (BLI 2011a, p. 1; Fiji Daily Post 2007, 2009, 
unpaginated). It was suggested that this species is roughly estimated 
to be declining at the rate of forest loss, which had been estimated to 
be 0.5 to 0.8 percent per year across Fiji (Claasen 1991 in BLI 2011a, 
p. 1), and that forest loss may be higher on Kadavu due to fires in 
recent years (BLI 2011a, p. 1). However, there is no information on the 
extent of past or current forest loss. Not only does the United Nations 
describe deforestation in Fiji as modest when compared with the rest of 
Melanesia (UN 2011, p. 1), but also local communities on Kadavu are 
implementing reforestation efforts and conservation of this species' 
habitat as described above (Fiji Daily News 2007, unpaginated). 
Although the eastern part of the island is experiencing pressures from 
agricultural encroachment, there is no evidence that agricultural 
encroachment or forest loss due to fires currently threatens the 
crimson shining parrot (NatureFiji 2011, pp. 1-2).
    Forests on Kadavu were heavily logged in the late 1960s and early 
1970s, and habitat loss and degradation of habitat for agricultural 
purposes continues. However, approximately 75 percent of the island 
remains forested; East Kadavu IBA is reported to have the largest area 
of old-growth forest in Kadavu, including extensive areas of lowland 
rainforest. Furthermore, the crimson shining parrot is reported to use 
degraded habitats extensively (BLI 2011a, p. 1; BLI 2011f, 
unpaginated). Most river estuaries and bays still hold large areas of 
mangroves, which are used by the crimson shining parrot for feeding 
(and possibly breeding), and pressure on mangrove forest here is not 
currently significant (BLI 2011a, p. 1).
    BLI and Nature Fiji are working with landowners on Kadavu to 
conserve these forested natural areas and to increase awareness of the 
value of maintaining these areas in a little-disturbed state (BLI 
2011e, p. 1). NGOs are working with the landowners in the Mount 
Nabukelevu area to create awareness about the value of their forests 
and the benefits of establishing ``Permanent Forest Estates'' (PFEs) 
(described below) on their lands. These NGOs are also working to help 
build the capacity of indigenous communities to continue forest 
conservation on their own (BLI 2011e, p. 3). BLI, through the Darwin 
Initiative, has worked with the Kadavu's Department of Forestry and 
local communities on Kadavu to protect this species' habitat. The 
Darwin Initiative, implemented by the United Kingdom, assists countries 
that are rich in biodiversity but poor in financial resources to meet 
their objectives under one or more of the three major biodiversity 
conventions. BLI conducted a workshop on Kadavu to teach sustainable 
agricultural practices and ways to reduce soil erosion which 
subsequently supports community livelihoods. Later, the villages of 
Lomati, Nabukelevuira, Qalira, and Daviqele committed to protect 1,500 
hectares (3,707 ac) of their forest that had been designated as an 
Important Bird Area (IBA) on Mount Nabukelevu in Kadavu (Fiji Daily 
News 2007).
    On Kadavu, particularly in the area of Mount Nabukelevu, many 
forest-owning mataqalis (clan or landowning units) are under pressure 
to convert their forests into agricultural land (BLI 2011e, p. 1). In 
2010, 10 mataqalis signed an agreement with an NGO to protect the 
forests of Mount Nabukelevu for the next 20 years (BLI 2011f; 
NatureFiji 2011). The community-declared protected area now includes 10 
mataqali (clan) lands plus a native reserve. Additionally, the 
Government of Fiji recognizes that maintaining forests is critically 
important for Fiji's people and biodiversity and has taken steps to 
preserve its country's resources. In 2007, Fiji introduced the Fiji 
Forest Policy, which promotes sustainable forest management. One of the 
foundations of the new Forest Policy is the concept of ``Permanent 
Forest Estates'' (PFEs). The policy promotes sustainable management of 
healthy forests by providing sustainable development incentives for 
landowners. In addition, the government of Fiji initiated a campaign to 
plant one million trees in 2010 to halt or slow ecological degradation 
associated with the depletion of the world's forests. Fiji launched its 
One Million Trees Campaign in support of the 2010 International Year of 
Biodiversity, and in 2011 as the International Year of Forests. Fiji 
indicated that they had surpassed their goal, and participants had 
succeeded in planting over one million trees (Fiji Ministry of 
Information 2011).
    Although forest loss may be occurring within the range of the 
crimson shining parrot, we have no information on the extent of forest 
loss or evidence to suggest that this loss has impacted or is currently 
affecting this species. The crimson shining parrot is found in forests, 
agriculture lands, around human habitation, and is known to use 
degraded habitats extensively. Furthermore, there is no information 
indicating this species is declining. Additionally, we have no 
information to suggest that habitat loss may become a threat to this 
species in the future such that it may contribute to the risk of 
extinction of this species. Fiji has implemented proactive policies and

[[Page 49206]]

protections with respect to its forests. Local conservation activities 
are occurring on Kadavu; indigenous communities are interested in 
preserving this species and its habitat. Therefore, we do not find that 
the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of 
its habitat or range is a threat to the crimson shining parrot now or 
in the foreseeable future.

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

    Conservation projects on Kadavu are believed to have reduced the 
numbers of parrots trapped for trading, but this species is still 
thought to be captured in small numbers for domestic and international 
trade (BLI 2010a, p. 1). As indicated above, this species has been 
listed in Appendix II of CITES since 1981. The United Nations 
Environment Programme--World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) 
manages a CITES Trade Database on behalf of the CITES Secretariat. We 
queried the UNEP-WCMC CITES Trade Database for gross data on export and 
import of this species since 2000, and found no record of trade in this 
species (UNEP-WCMC 2011, accessed January 4, 2011.)
    Each Party to CITES is responsible for compiling and submitting 
annual reports to the CITES Secretariat regarding their country's trade 
in species listed in the CITES Appendices. The data from submitted 
annual reports is compiled into the database, and it provides a 
mechanism by which CITES trade can be assessed. Due to the time needed 
to compile the data, the most recent year for which comprehensive trade 
statistics are available is normally 2 years prior to the current year. 
UNEP-WCMC acknowledges that the data are not always accurate (UNEP-WCMC 
2011, p. 5). They indicate that it is not uncommon for the quantity of 
specimens traded to be considerably less than the amount specified on 
the permits and that the quantity specified on the permits is 
frequently the quantity that is reported in annual reports. They 
further clarify that trade transactions that may have been authorized 
by the issuance of permits but never have taken place, as well as 
inaccurately reported volumes of trade, will exist in the UNEP-WCMC 
CITES database. UNEP-WCMC also acknowledges that gross and net outputs 
from the CITES database are often overestimates of the quantities 
traded because in cases where different quantities are reported by the 
importing and exporting countries, the CITES database program selects 
the larger quantity. Errors do occur in the database, and the numbers 
may not be entirely accurate, but they do provide an approximate 
representation of international trade that is occurring through CITES. 
However, we consider the UNEP-WCMC CITES trade data to be the best 
available information pertaining to international trade in CITES-listed 
species.
    Although it has been reported that birds are taken as gifts and 
there is some illegal trade overseas, it is thought to occur in small 
numbers (BLI 2010a, p. 1). Conservation projects described under Factor 
A have reduced the numbers of birds trapped for the pet bird trade (BLI 
2011a, p. 1). BLI reports that four communities have set up village 
protected areas on Kadavu, and they conduct regular bird surveys under 
their own initiative. Additionally, it is protected by law against 
trading and transfers out of Kadavua and Ono (NatureFiji 2011, p. 2). 
There appears to be substantial protection, awareness, and local 
conservation of this species occurring. Because there is no evidence of 
poaching (i.e., hunting by people to gain at least a temporary living 
from the activity) or illegal trade of this species occurring at levels 
such that it may contribute to the risk of extinction of the crimson 
shining parrot, or information indicating poaching or trade may 
increase in the future and rise to the level of a threat, we believe 
that overutilization for commercial, recreation, scientific, or 
educational purposes is not a threat to the species.
    We are unaware of any other information currently available that 
addresses overutilization for commercial, recreation, scientific, or 
education purposes that may be affecting the crimson shining parrot. We 
found no evidence of overutilization due to historic or cultural use of 
this species by local populations. Based on the best available 
scientific and commercial information, we find that overutilization for 
commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes is not a 
threat to the crimson shining parrot now or in the foreseeable future.

Factor C. Disease or Predation

    Predation by introduced mammals such as feral cats (Felis catus) 
and rats (Rattus spp.) were identified as possible factors affecting 
this species. There was little to no information found regarding the 
occurrence of predation or disease in Fiji, particularly with respect 
to the crimson shining parrot. As is the case on many remote islands, 
Fiji has no native terrestrial mammals. Introduced mammals such as 
rats, mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), cats and dogs prey heavily on 
Fiji's native wildlife (Morley 2004 in Olson et al. 2009, p. 1). 
However, the mongoose is not present on Kadavu Island and the only 
current predator definitely known to occur on Kadavu is cats. Cats on 
Kadavu are known to threaten ground-nesting birds, particularly on the 
coasts, but they are not known to threaten the crimson shining parrot. 
There are no known predators on Ono Island to our knowledge. Studies 
have found that predation rates by introduced predators are lowest in 
natural forests more than 4.5 km (2 mi) from forest edges or roads 
(Olson et al. 2006). Kadavu's terrain consists of volcanic, 
mountainous, dense rainforest; sandy beaches; rocky coastline; and 
mangrove swamps. The island has a significant portion of relatively 
undisturbed forested areas. The islands' forested areas may act as 
refugia from predation by alien predators, such as the feral cat, for 
native species such as the crimson shining parrot.
    Researchers suggest that maintaining minimally-disturbed forests is 
one of the most cost-effective strategies for protecting species (Olson 
et al. 2009, p. 1). Because this species resides in dense forests far 
from edges and roads, this species is not likely to be significantly 
affected by nonnative predators. The crimson shining parrot likely has 
natural predators, but we were unable to find information that any 
natural predators are having an impact on this species. Although 
predation occurs in Fiji, particularly by nonnative species, the best 
available information does not indicate that predation is a threat to 
the crimson shining parrot on Kadavu or Ono now, or may become a threat 
in the future.
    We are not aware of any occurrence of disease that may be affecting 
the crimson shining parrot. In conclusion, we find that neither disease 
nor predation is a threat to the crimson shining parrot in any portion 
of its range now or in the foreseeable future.

Factor D. The Inadequacy of Existing Regulatory Mechanisms

    Various regulatory mechanisms are in place to protect the crimson 
shining parrot. This species is listed on Fiji's Endangered and 
Protected Species (EPS) Act of 2002 which is the legislation that 
implements CITES. As discussed under Factor B, the government of Fiji 
is adequately controlling international trade. According to a review 
conducted for CITES with respect to national legislation to determine 
each country's ability to implement CITES effectively, Fiji meets the 
requirements for

[[Page 49207]]

implementing CITES (CITES 2011a; https://www.cites.org, SC59 Document 
11, Annex p. 1). In addition to the absence of legal trade, there is no 
indication that this species is traded illegally at levels such that it 
may contribute to the risk of extinction of the crimson shining parrot. 
Based on the lack of trade, and as discussed under Factor B, we do not 
consider international trade to be a threat to the crimson shining 
parrot. Therefore, protection under CITES is an adequate regulatory 
mechanism.
Wild Bird Conservation Act
    The import into the United States of all of these species: the 
crimson shining parrot, Philippine cockatoo, white cockatoo, and 
yellow-crested cockatoo, is regulated by the Wild Bird Conservation Act 
(WBCA) (16 U.S.C. 4901 et seq.), which was enacted on October 23, 1992. 
The WBCA is implemented under 50 CFR part 15 and has limited or 
prohibited imports of exotic bird species into the United States since 
1992. The purpose of the WBCA is to promote the conservation of exotic 
birds by ensuring that all trade involving the United States is 
sustainable and is not detrimental to the species. The WBCA is a 
stricter conservation measure than CITES, and import of these parrot 
species into the United States requires issuance of a WBCA import 
permit. WBCA permits may be issued to allow import of listed birds for 
various purposes, such as scientific research, zoological breeding or 
display, or personal pets, when certain criteria are met. The Service 
may approve cooperative breeding programs and subsequently issue import 
permits under such programs. Under the cooperative breeding program, 
wild-caught birds may be imported into the United States if they are a 
part of Service-approved management plans for sustainable use. At this 
time, none of the four parrot species discussed in this document is 
part of a Service-approved cooperative breeding program, and there are 
no approved management plans for wild-caught birds of these species.
    Under the provisions of WBCA, any individual importing their pet 
bird to the United States for the first time must reside outside of the 
United States for at least 12 continuous months. In addition, in order 
to control diseases, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service requires veterinary health certificates 
and health inspections for pet birds, and implements quarantine 
procedures for birds imported into the United States. A report 
published in 2006 showed that imports of parrot species to the United 
States declined from the mid-1980s to 1991 (Pain et al. 2006, pp. 322-
324). Parrot imports to the United States were already declining before 
the enactment of the WBCA, but the WBCA largely curtailed the import of 
wild parrots; we find it is an adequate regulatory mechanism for all 
four of these parrot species.
    As discussed under Factor B, local protections are in place on the 
islands where this species exists. The governmental institutions 
responsible for oversight of the conservation of this species have a 
good legal framework to manage wildlife and their habitats. Not only 
are local NGOs involved in conservation activities for this species, 
but there also appears to be adequate capacity at various levels to 
protect this species and its habitat. The forestry regulations appear 
to be effective; there are no reports of illegal logging on the islands 
of Kadavu and Ono. Most of Fiji's forests are managed or owned by local 
communities, which have incentive to protect the native habitat. 
Ownership of native lands is not transferable through land sales, but 
user rights can be transferred via land leases (Leslie and Tuinivanua 
2010, p. 10). These landowning groups are deeply attached to their 
lands and Fiji's forestry policy supports the local ownership of its 
lands. Within this species' habitat, the forested areas are being 
adequately managed and protected by these mataqalis.
    Environmental education, conservation initiatives, and restoration 
efforts are occurring on Kadavu. Another NGO working on Kadavu to 
protect this species is the Matava Foundation (https://foundation.matava.com/2011-projects) which is a local NGO associated 
with a resort on the island. In addition to the conservation efforts in 
place, the remoteness of these islands likely serves as an additional 
protection for this species. The crimson shining parrot occurs on two 
islands, and both islands are extremely remote and fairly undeveloped. 
These factors all likely serve as additional protections for this 
species.
    In summary, the existing regulatory mechanisms appear to be 
adequate. There are no current records of this species in international 
trade, and the government of Fiji is actively conducting environmental 
stewardship projects. There is nothing to suggest that this factor is a 
threat to the species. Local conservation activities involving 
indigenous communities are occurring on Kadavu and this species and its 
habitat appear to be well protected. Fiji has enacted various laws and 
regulatory mechanisms to protect and manage wildlife and their 
habitats. As described above in our review, we found that the 
government of Fiji and NGOs are implementing many projects and 
mechanisms that will likely have a positive impact on this species and 
its habitat. Reforestation and conservation efforts are occurring. The 
best scientific and commercial information available indicates that the 
crimson shining parrot is not in danger of extinction or likely to 
become so within the foreseeable future due to inadequate regulatory 
mechanisms.

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

    In this section, we examined whether invasive species are threats 
to the crimson shining parrot. The eastern part of Kadavu supports 
several bird species that are endemic to Kadavu. BLI indicated that 
logging and roads (see Factor A) may be facilitating the movement of 
invasive species. Logging enables alien invasive species such as rats 
and cats, and in some cases, Indian or common mynahs (Acridotheres 
tristis), jungle mynahs (Acridotheres fuscus), and Spathodea 
campanulata (African tulip trees), to invade the forests along logging 
roads and clearings. The island of Kadavu may be experiencing invasive 
species, but there is no evidence that invasive species are occurring 
to an extent that they are threats to the crimson shining parrot. Nor 
is there evidence that invasive species are a threat on Ono Island, 
where the crimson shining parrot is also known to occur. BLI is 
creating community-based conservation groups at Fiji's key conservation 
sites such as Kadavu Island, and is working with communities to address 
issues such as effectively dealing with invasive species (BLI 2011g, p. 
3). We found no other natural or manmade factors that might affect the 
continued existence of the crimson shining parrot now or in the future. 
Based on the best available information, we find that there are no 
other natural or manmade threats to the continued existence of the 
crimson shining parrot throughout its range now or in the foreseeable 
future.
Significant Portion of the Range
    Having determined that the crimson shining parrot is not in danger 
of extinction or likely to become so within the foreseeable future 
throughout all of its range, we must next consider whether there are 
any significant portions of the range where the crimson shining parrot 
is in danger of extinction

[[Page 49208]]

or is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
    The Act defines an endangered species as one ``in danger of 
extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range,'' and 
a threatened species as one ``likely to become an endangered species 
within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion 
of its range.'' The term ``significant portion of its range'' is not 
defined by the statute. For the purposes of this finding, a portion of 
a species' range is ``significant'' if it is part of the current range 
of the species, and it provides a crucial contribution to the 
representation, resiliency, or redundancy of the species. For the 
contribution to be crucial it must be at a level such that, without 
that portion, the species would be in danger of extinction.
    In determining whether a species is threatened or endangered in a 
significant portion of its range, we first identify any portions of the 
range of the species that warrant further consideration. The range of a 
species can theoretically be divided into portions in an infinite 
number of ways. However, there is no purpose to analyzing portions of 
the range that are not reasonably likely to be significant and 
threatened or endangered. To identify only those portions that warrant 
further consideration, we determine whether there is substantial 
information indicating that: (1) The portions may be significant, and 
(2) the species may be in danger of extinction there or likely to 
become so within the foreseeable future. In practice, a key part of 
this analysis is whether the threats are geographically concentrated in 
some way. If the threats to the species are essentially uniform 
throughout its range, no portion is likely to warrant further 
consideration. Moreover, if any concentration of threats applies only 
to portions of the species' range that clearly would not meet the 
biologically based definition of ``significant'' (i.e., the loss of 
that portion clearly would not reasonably be expected to increase the 
vulnerability to extinction of the entire species to the point that the 
species would then be in danger of extinction), such portions will not 
warrant further consideration.
    If we identify portions that warrant further consideration, we then 
determine their status (i.e., whether in fact the species is endangered 
or threatened in a significant portion of its range). Depending on the 
biology of the species, its range, and the threats it faces, it might 
be more efficient for us to address either the ``significant'' question 
first, or the status question first. Thus, if we determine that a 
portion of the range is not ``significant,'' we do not need to 
determine whether the species is endangered or threatened there; if we 
determine that the species is not endangered or threatened in a portion 
of its range, we do not need to determine if that portion is 
``significant.''
    Applying the process described above for determining whether a 
species is threatened in a significant portion of its range, we 
considered status first to determine if any threats or potential 
threats acting individually or collectively threaten or endanger the 
species in a portion of its range. We have analyzed the potential 
threats and determined they are essentially uniform throughout the 
species' range.

Finding for the Crimson Shining Parrot

    Section 3 of the ESA 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.'' In this finding, we determine whether the petitioned action 
is: (a) Not warranted, (b) warranted, or (c) warranted but precluded 
(see Background, above).
    As required by the ESA, we considered the five factors separately 
and in combination in assessing whether the crimson shining parrot is 
endangered or threatened throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range. We examined the best scientific and commercial information 
available regarding the past, present, and future threats faced by the 
crimson shining parrot. We reviewed the petition, information available 
in our files, and available published and unpublished information 
regarding this species and its habitat.
    We do not have long-term population trend data for the crimson 
shining parrot. This species has always been an island endemic and may 
have always had a small population; island endemics tend to have 
smaller population sizes. Without historical population information, we 
do not know if this species has experienced a decrease in population 
size or if its population has been fairly consistent. Furthermore, this 
species is reported as common and widespread. During our review of the 
status of the species, we evaluated the potential threats to the 
crimson shining parrot including: habitat loss and habitat degradation, 
take for the pet trade, disease and predation, the inadequacy of 
regulatory mechanisms, and other natural or manmade factors such as 
invasive species. We found no information that habitat loss is a threat 
to the crimson shining parrot. We conclude that the present or 
threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or 
range is not a threat to the crimson shining parrot. We found no 
information that poaching for the pet trade is a threat to the species. 
This species is not in international trade according to the UNEP-WCMC 
trade database. Additionally, education and public awareness campaigns 
are occurring in Kadavu. Fiji is actively involved in forest protection 
efforts; a new Forest Policy was adopted in 2007 (Fiji Ministry of 
Fisheries and Forestry 2009, p. 1). We found no evidence that disease 
or predation affects the wild crimson shining parrot population. In 
addition, this species is protected by laws against trading and 
transfers out of Kadavu and Ono. We also concluded that there are no 
other natural or manmade factors that are threats to the species 
(Factor E).
    The best available information indicates that there is little 
disturbance on the islands where the crimson shining parrot naturally 
occurs. Habitat loss is often a threat to wildlife, however, in this 
case, there is no evidence that habitat loss is affecting the crimson 
shining parrot. On the contrary, this species is said to occupy altered 
habitat extensively. Conservation efforts for this species have been 
underway within the past few years to ensure long-term conservation of 
habitat where this species exists; local groups on Kadavu are 
implementing reforestation and conservation programs. Based on the lack 
of threats acting on this species throughout its range as described 
above, and the lack of information indicating the species population is 
in decline, we determine that this species is not in danger of 
extinction now, nor is it likely to become endangered within the 
foreseeable future, throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range. Therefore, we find that listing the crimson shining parrot as a 
threatened or endangered species is not warranted.

Species Information

B. Philippine Cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia)

Taxonomy and Species Description

    The species was first taxonomically described by M[uuml]ller in 
1776 (BLI 2011b). We accept the species as C. haematuropygia, which 
follows the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS 2011).
    Cockatoos are only found in Australasia--a few archipelagos in 
Southeast Asia (Philippines, Indonesia,

[[Page 49209]]

East Timor, Tanimbar, Bismarck, and Solomon), New Guinea, and 
Australia--suggesting that the modern species arose after the breakup 
of Gondwanaland, the southern supercontinent that existed 200 to 500 
million years ago. The 19th century naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace 
was among the first to note the break in Australasian and Asian fauna. 
Wallace's line runs between the islands of Bali and Lombok, Borneo and 
Sulawesi, and south of the Philippines. Cockatoos are present on Lombok 
and Sulawesi, but not on Bali and Borneo. The line represents the 
western edge of a zone of overlap between Australasian and Asian fauna 
(known as Wallacea), with the eastern edge defined by the Australian 
continental shelf (Lydekker's Line) (White and Bruce 1986, p. 32; 
Cameron 2007, pp. 1-3). These oceanic islands of Wallacea have high 
levels of endemism, meaning the species that occur there are unique to 
those islands.
    The Philippine cockatoo, or red-vented cockatoo, is locally known 
as the ``katala'' and ``kalangay,'' and has a helmet crest and a red 
undertail (Rowley 1997). Cockatoos are a distinct group of parrots 
(order Psittaciformes), distinguished by the presence of an erectile 
crest (Collar 1989, p. 5; Cameron 2007, p. 1) and the lack of dyck 
texture in their feathers. Dyck texturing is a microscopic texturing 
that produces blue and green coloration and is present in the plumage 
of other parrots (Brown and Toft 1999, p. 141).

Biology, Distribution, and Habitat

    This species is endemic to the Philippines, an archipelago of 
approximately 7,000 islands. The total area of the Philippines is 
30,000,000 ha (74,131,614 ac) (Kummer 1991, p. 44). The Philippine 
cockatoo requires lowland primary or secondary forests with suitable 
nesting tree cavities and food sources, within or adjacent to riparian 
or coastal areas with mangroves (IUCN 2008i). The species is reported 
to use regenerating forest and even heavily degraded forest, as long as 
emergent nest trees survive. However, its nest sites are restricted to 
lowlands (Widmann and Widmann 2010, pers. comm.).
    The Philippine cockatoo is a food generalist; its diet varies based 
on the seasons. It consumes seeds, legumes, fruit, flowers, buds, and 
nectar. It will also eat agricultural crops such as corn and rice, and 
has been observed feeding on Moringa oleifera (commonly known as 
malunggay or horseradish tree). Interestingly, the government of the 
Philippines introduced a bill in 2010, in the Fifteenth Congress of the 
Republic of the Philippines, First Regular Session, to encourage 
planting Moringa oleifera due to economic benefits (Senate Bill 1349 
2010, pp. 1-7). The Philippine cockatoo has also been observed feeding 
on the fruits of Sonneratia, a mangrove species (Tabaranza 1992; 
Lambert 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1683).
    This species nests in tree cavities, and produces two to three eggs 
per season (Cameron 2007, p. 140). Breeding generally occurs March 
through June (BLI 2001, p. 1684), and both sexes participate in nest 
building (Widmann et al. 2001, p. 135). The period between incubation 
and fledging is generally about 95 days (Cameron 2007, p. 140). The 
species prefers nests high in the tree canopy, generally around 30 m 
(98 ft) (BLI 2001, p. 1683), but nest heights between 12 and 35 m (39 
to 114 ft) have also been observed (Widmann et al. 2001, p. 135). The 
diameter of the cavity openings observed has been between 10 and 25 cm 
(4 and 10 in) (Widmann et al. 2001, p. 135). Some artificial nest boxes 
have been installed to increase nesting habitat; the species exhibits a 
preference for horizontal rather than vertical nest boxes (Low 2001, p. 
3). Some of the tree species they use for roosting include 
Dipterocarpus grandiflorus (common names: apitong, tempudau, tunden, 
lagan bras aput) and Intsia bijuga (common names: Borneo-teak, Moluccan 
ironwood, and merbau asam), as well as coconut trees (Lambert 1994b in 
BLI 2001, p. 1686). They also use Garuga floribunda (no common name 
[ncn]) and Sonneratia alba (ncn) (Cameron 2007, p. 35).

Population Estimates

    Based on recent reports, it is likely that between 450 and 1,245 
individuals remain in the wild. Surveys indicated that until around the 
1980s, the Philippine cockatoo was fairly common within the Philippine 
archipelago (Collar et al. 1998; Boussekey 2000, p. 138, BLI 2010, p. 
1). Historically, it was known to exist on 52 islands in the 
Philippines; now, it is believed to exist on eight islands (BLI 2011a, 
p. 1).
    The species' current range is significantly reduced from its 
historic range. In the past, the species was reported to have been 
commonly found throughout the Philippines except for northern and 
central Luzon (Delacour and Mayr 1946; DuPont 1971 in Boussekey 2000, 
p. 138; Collar et al. 1999 in Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 23). It was 
common throughout the Philippines as recently as the 1950s. Between 
1980 and 2000, there was a 60 to 90 percent population decline 
throughout its range (Boussekey 2000, p. 138). In the early 1990s, the 
population was estimated to be between 1,000 and 4,000 (Tabaranza 1992 
and Lambert 1994b in BLI 2001, p. 1681).
    Snyder et al. (2000) reported the following population surveys. A 
1991 survey estimated between 800 and 3,000 birds exist on Palawan 
(Pandanas, Bugsok, and Bancalan Islands were thought to support 100 to 
300 individuals and Dumaran 150 to 250 individuals), and possibly a few 
hundred were thought to exist in the Tawi-Tawi region (Lambert 1993b, 
1994b). A single pair was found on Siquijor in 1991 (Evans et al. 
1993). A few were found at Mount Isarog, Luzon in 1988 (Goodman and 
Gonzales 1990), and a few pairs were found in Mindoro at Malpalon 
(Dutson et al. 1992). On Masbate, birds were observed in 1993 (Curio 
1994), and the species has been recorded a few times in singles or 
small numbers in Rajah Sikatuna National Park, Bohol since 1989 (Brooks 
et al. 1995b). In 1994, two pairs (Dutson in litt. 1997) were seen on 
Tawi-Tawi, and the species was considered widespread there in 1995-
1996, although apparently more often seen in captivity than in the wild 
(two singles were observed in Batu-Batu and a single and a pair in 
Buan) (Allen in litt. 1997). Three birds were observed on Simunul, 
Tawi-Tawi in 1996 (Allen in litt. 1997; Dutson et al. 1996). The 
species is considered extinct on Cebu (Brooks et al. 1995a) and Negros 
(Brooks et al. 1992). Recent population counts and estimates are below; 
however, this information is not a complete representation of the 
population, but is the best available information. Some islands may not 
hold viable populations and may be functionally extinct.
    Between 2004 and 2010, the population estimate decreased from 1,000 
to 4,000 individuals to 450 to 1,245 individual birds in the wild 
(Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 23; BLI 2010b; Widmann and Widmann 2010, 
pers. comm.). This species currently is found in the Culasian Managed 
Resource Protected Area (CMRPA), Palawan, Dumaran Island (negligible 
population), Pandanan and Bugsok Islands, Polillo Island Group, Rasa 
Island, Tawi-Tawi, and possibly on Samar Island. An estimated 
additional 400 individuals may survive in the Sulu archipelago; 
however, only sparse information is available for this area (Widmann et 
al. 2007; Widmann et al. 2009a; Widmann et al. 2010a). Subpopulations 
away from Palawan and the Sulus are thought to be very small, and do 
not likely have viable populations (Widmann 2010, pers. comm.) The 
extent these populations are interbreeding is unclear at this time.

[[Page 49210]]

Detailed discussion of each of these areas follows.

 Table 1--Population Counts and Estimates of Philippine Cockatoo Between
               2007 and 2010 on Islands in the Philippines
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Number of individuals based on recent
   observation, population count, or                 Location
                estimate
------------------------------------------------------------------------
60.....................................  Bugsok Island (40 to 80
                                          estimated).
20.....................................  Burdeos, Polillo Islands.
3......................................  CMRPA, Palawan Island.
23.....................................  Dumaran, Lagan.
80.....................................  Pandanan Island.
2......................................  Patnanungan, Polillo Islands.
280....................................  Rasa Island.
4......................................  Samar.
200....................................  Tawi-Tawi (100 to 400
                                          estimated).
672....................................  TOTAL*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Note: This is not a full population survey; it documents birds
  actually counted, observed, or estimated (Widmann 2010, pers. comm.).

Culasian Managed Resource Protected Area

    This area is in the south of Palawan Island and is 1,954 hectares 
(ha) (4,828 acres (ac)). The total land area of Palawan is 
approximately 1.5 million ha (3.7 million ac), including the 1,767 
islands and islets surrounding the main island. This species exists 
both within the actual designated protected area (CMRPA) and in the 
areas surrounding the protected area on Palawan Island. Philippine 
cockatoos are thought to travel between Palawan Island and nearby Rasa 
Island. This species has been known to fly from the mainland to 
offshore islands as far as 8 km (5 mi) away from the mainland to roost 
and breed. No roosting sites are known in the CMRPA and surrounding 
areas (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 23); however, there have been recent 
sightings there: four were observed in September 2009, and three were 
observed in December 2009 (Widmann et al. 2010a, p. 37). At least two 
Philippine cockatoos persist inside the protected area, but they have 
not bred in the last 4 years.
    CMRPA has been described as exhibiting the ``empty forest 
syndrome.'' Although its forest is largely intact, little wildlife 
remains due to hunting pressure and poaching. In the small population 
that was protected only recently here, there are no indications that 
the species' status is improving. Only one breeding pair exists outside 
of the reserve. Cockatoo poaching occurred in this area within the past 
3 years, and breeding in the 2009-2010 season failed. Because all nests 
have been systematically poached over many years, extinction of this 
population is likely to occur suddenly due to lack of recruitment 
(Widmann and Widmann 2010, pers. comm.).

Dumaran Island

    On Dumaran Island, which is off the northeastern coast of Palawan, 
three areas are managed by the Katala Foundation's Philippine Cockatoo 
Conservation Programme (PCCP). Two of those are protected areas: the 
Omoi Cockatoo Reserve and the Manambaling Cockatoo Reserve (Widmann et 
al. 2009b, p. 7). The third area is Lagan, which is also monitored and 
managed by the PCCP. On Dumaran Island, the protected suitable forest 
patches are each very small: 1.5 and 0.6 km\2\ (0.6 and 0.2 mi\2\), 
respectively (Widmann and Widmann 2008, p. 24). On this island in 2008, 
although 10 eggs were counted, only two birds fledged (Widmann et al. 
2009b, p. 6). Recovery is slow; they started with fewer than 20 bi