Blue Racer
Blue Racer
Photo credit: Joe Crowley
Lake Erie Watersnake
Lake Erie Watersnake
Photo credit: Joe Crowley
Small-mouthed Salamander
Small-mouthed Salamander
Photo credit: Tom Hossie
Unisexual Ambystoma
Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
Photo credit: Joe Crowley

Species information

The following is a report on progress made towards the protection and recovery of Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor foxii), Lake Erie Watersnake (Nerodia sipedon insularum), Small-mouthed Salamander (Ambystoma texanum) and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) (Ambystoma laterale – texanum) in Ontario from 2007 to 2021, based on Ontario’s species-specific recovery policy. This report meets the legislative requirement for a review of progress under the Endangered Species Act, 2007 (ESA or “the Act”). The Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) are listed as endangered on the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List under the ESA, while the Lake Erie Watersnake is listed as Special Concern on the Species at Risk in Ontario (SARO) List. Throughout this report, the Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) is often referred to as the “Unisexual Ambystoma”.

Blue Racer has been classified as a species at risk since 1973. It was originally classified as an endangered species and was listed as such under the ESA when it came into force in June 2008.

Lake Erie Watersnake has been classified as a species at risk since 1977. It was classified as an endangered species and was listed as such under the ESA when it came into force in June 2008. The species was re-classified as a species of special concern in June 2017.

Small-mouthed Salamander has been classified as a species at risk since 2000. It was originally classified as a threatened species, and was re-classified as endangered and listed as such when the ESA came into force in June 2008.

Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) has been classified as a species at risk since 2017. It was listed as an endangered species under the ESA in June 2017.

Blue Racer has been protected from being killed, harmed, harassed, captured or taken since 1973. The habitat of Blue Racer has been protected from being damaged or destroyed since 2008.

Lake Erie Watersnake was protected from being killed, harmed, harassed, captured or taken between 1977 and 2017. The habitat of the Lake Erie Watersnake has been protected from being damaged or destroyed from 2008 to 2017.

Small-mouthed Salamander has been protected from being killed, harmed, harassed, captured or taken since 2000. The habitat of the Small-mouthed Salamander has been protected from being damaged or destroyed since 2013.

Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) has been protected from being killed, harmed, harassed, captured or taken since June 2017. The habitat of the Unisexual Ambystoma have been protected from being damaged or destroyed since 2017.

The species-specific recovery policy for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake and Small-mouthed Salamander, known as the Government Response Statement (GRS) was originally published in 2017. With the more recent listing of the Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population), the GRS was updated in 2019 to include this additional species. The GRS includes the government’s recovery goals for each species and the actions and priorities it intends to lead or support to help achieve those goals. The science advice provided in the recovery strategies (Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) was considered when developing recovery actions in the GRS. As legislated in the Act, the purpose of this Review is to report on progress made towards implementing the protection and recovery actions in the GRS. The review can also help identify opportunities to adjust and adapt the implementation of protection and recovery actions to achieve the recovery goals for each species.

Blue Racer

1973, 2008 Listed as endangered
 
1973 Species protected
 
2008 Habitat protected through the general definition of habitat under the ESA since 2008.
 
2015 Recovery strategy finalized
 
2019 Government response statement finalized
 
2022 Review of progress finalized
 

Lake Erie Watersnake

1977, 2008 Listed as endangered
 
1977-2017 Species protected
 
2008-2017 Habitat protected through the general definition of habitat under the ESA since 2008.
 
2015 Recovery strategy finalized
 
2017 Listed as special concern
 
2017 Species and habitat protection removed
 
2019 Government response statement finalized
 
2022 Review of progress finalized
 

Small-mouthed Salamander

2000 Listed as threatened
 
2000, 2008 Species protected
 
2005, 2008 Listed as endangered
 
2013 Habitat protected through the general definition of habitat under the ESA since 2013.
 
2018 Recovery strategy finalized
 
2019 Government response statement finalized
 
2022 Review of progress finalized
 

Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander population dependent)

2017 Listed as endangered
 
2017 Species protected
 
2017 Habitat protected through the general definition of habitat under the ESA since 2017.
 
2018 Recovery strategy finalized
 
2019 Government response statement finalized
 
2022 Review of progress finalized
 

Further information about Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, including the threats they face and actions being taken to help protect and recover these species, is available on the Government of Ontario webpages for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). A summary on the progress towards the protection and recovery of these species and an annual update on the broader species at risk program (i.e. the Introduction to the 2022 Review of Progress report) is available on the Review of Progress towards the Protection and Recovery of Ontario’s Species at Risk webpage.

Snapshot: Progress towards the protection and recovery of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)

Progress towards meeting the recovery goal

  • The recovery goal in the Government Response Statement (GRS) for Blue Racer  in Ontario is to maintain the species’ distribution and ensure a viable, self-sustaining population.
  • The recovery goal in the Government Response Statement (GRS) for Lake Erie Watersnake in Ontario is to maintain the current abundance and distribution of the species in Ontario.
  • The recovery goal in the Government Response Statement (GRS) for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) in Ontario is to ensure long-term viability and persistence of the Ontario populations by managing threats and increasing population abundance, distribution and connectivity.
  • Progress has been made towards implementing the majority of the government-led actions. Progress has also been made towards implementing all of the government-supported recovery objectives and the majority of the associated actions. Examples of progress to-date include:
    • Extensive stewardship efforts carried out by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), which have been supported through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program (SARSP). Over the past decade, the NCC has managed, restored and created over 100 hectares of habitat for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and the Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) across Pelee Island.
    • Survey and monitoring programs have been implemented by SARSP partners for the Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population), which have greatly improved our understanding of species’ distributions and population trends.
    • A long-term, multi-facetted survey, monitoring and research program for the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) was initiated by Trent University in 2015, with support through the SARSP. This work, which is ongoing, has been systematically addressing most of the knowledge gaps identified in the GRS for these SAR salamanders.
  • Based on progress to date, the overall direction provided in the GRS should continue to guide recovery efforts for the Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, with particular focus on the actions identified as high priority.

Occurrences and distribution

  • Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent) occur on Peele Island in Western Lake Erie.
  • Blue Racer has a range of approximately 34 square kilometres on Pelee Island based on recent observations, and was historically distributed across an additional 26 square kilometers. There are 265 historical observations of the Blue Racer on the mainland of Ontario, where the species is considered to be extirpated. Since 2008, the species has been observed in seven additional square kilometers in which it was not previously known to occur. The species’ presence has been re-confirmed in three square kilometers that were considered to be historical in 2008, while 13 square kilometers have changed from extant to historical based on a lack of recent observations.
  • Lake Erie Watersnake has a range of approximately 62 square kilometres based on recent observations of the species, and a total range of 71 square kilometres when historical observations are included. Since 2008, the species’ presence has been re-confirmed in five square kilometers, the species has been observed in 12 additional square kilometers in which it was not previously known to occur, and three square kilometers have changed from extant to historical based on a lack of observations.
  • Nine populations of Small-mouthed Salamander have been documented on Pelee Island. Seven of these populations are extant, whereas the remaining two are considered historical. Since 2008, four populations have been newly identified as a result of recent survey and monitoring work.
  • Ten populations of Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) have been documented on Pelee Island. Currently, seven of these populations are extant, one is considered to be historical, and the remaining two are locally extirpated. Since 2008, the status of one population changed from extant to historical based on the date that it was last observed, while four populations were newly identified as a result of recent survey and monitoring work.

Government-supported stewardship projects

  • Through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program, the Government of Ontario has enabled its stewardship partners to conduct 29 projects (by providing $2,417,377 in funding) that have supported the protection and recovery of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander, and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). Three of these projects focussed exclusively on Blue Racer ($278,003), five focussed exclusively on Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) ($406,797), and one focussed exclusively on Lake Erie Watersnake ($6,395), while the other 20 projects ($1,726,181) focused on multiple species at risk, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).
  • The government’s support helped its stewardship partners to involve 31,932 individuals who volunteered 31,043 hours of their time towards protection and recovery activities for species at risk, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). The estimated value of these voluntary contributions, as well as additional funding and in-kind support, is $2,447,586.
  • Stewardship partners reported that through their actions 167 hectares of habitat were enhanced for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).
  • Stewardship partners reported providing outreach on multiple species at risk, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population), to 65,822 individuals.

Supporting human activities while ensuring appropriate support for species recovery

  • The Government of Ontario has issued six permits for Blue Racer (three ‘protection or recovery’ permits were issued under clause 17(2)(b), and three ‘overall benefit’ permits were issued under clause 17(2)(c) of the ESA) and four permits for Lake Erie Watersnake (one ‘protection or recovery’ permit was issued under clause 17(2)(b) and three ‘overall benefit’ permits were issued under clause 17(2)(c) of the ESA). To date, no permits have been issued for Small-mouthed Salamander or Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).
  • One agreement was entered into for multiple species at risk that included Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake and Small-mouthed Salamander. This agreement was enabled through Ontario Regulation 242/08 (prior to the July 1, 2013 amendment).
  • Sixteen activities have been registered for Blue Racer for the purposes of Ontario Regulation 242/08 under the ESA, with seven activities registered under ‘Drainage works’ (section 23.9), one registered under ‘Ecosystem protection’(section 23.11), six registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17), and two registered under ‘Threats to human health and safety, not imminent’ (section 23.18). Six activities have been registered for Lake Erie Watersnake, with two registered under ’Drainage works’ (section 23.9), three registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17), and one registered under ‘Threats to human health and safety, not imminent’ (section 23.18). Sixteen activities have been registered for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)activities registered under ‘Ecosystem protection’ (section 23.11), one registered under ‘Transition - development ongoing when species first listed, etc.’ (section 23.13), and 13 registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17).

Reporting on the progress towards the protection and recovery of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)

Recovery goal

The government’s goal for the recovery of the Blue Racer in Ontario is to maintain the species’ distribution and ensure a viable, self-sustaining population.

The government’s goal for the recovery of the Lake Erie Watersnake is to maintain the current abundance and distribution of the species in Ontario.

The government’s goal for the recovery of the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) is to ensure long-term viability and persistence of the Ontario populations by managing threats and increasing population abundance, distribution and connectivity.

The implementation of government-led and government-supported actions demonstrates progress towards reaching the desired objectives and the recovery goal set out in the GRS.

Progress towards implementing government-led actions

Progress has been made towards implementing the majority of government-led actions identified in the GRS, which include:

  • Explore opportunities to work collectively with the Township of Pelee, including the Pelee Island Environmental Advisory Committee, the federal government and local partners to develop an integrated (landscape/place-based) approach to managing species at risk with consideration of ecosystem values and sustainable resources on Pelee Island. This may include:
    • continuing to implement the Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan to address the invasive species (e.g., Phragmites) that threaten Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
    • continuing to implement Ontario’s Invasive Species Act to address the invasive species identified in the Act (e.g., Phragmites) that threaten Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
    • educating other agencies and authorities involved in planning and environmental assessment processes on the ESA
  • Explore opportunities to work collectively with the Township of Pelee, including the Pelee Island Environmental Advisory Committee, the federal government and local partners to integrate approaches to stewardship and implementation of recovery activities including:
    • encouraging collaboration, and establishing and communicating annual priority actions for government support in order to reduce duplication of stewardship efforts
    • supporting conservation, agency, municipal and industry partners, and Indigenous communities and organizations to undertake activities to protect and recover Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). Support will be provided where appropriate through funding, agreements, permits (including conditions) and advisory services
    • undertaking communication and outreach to increase public awareness of species at risk in Ontario
    • encouraging the submission of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) data to the Ontario’s central repository through the citizen science projects that they receive data from (e.g., the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas) and directly through the Natural Heritage Information Centre
  • Continue to monitor, protect and manage habitat for the four species in protected areas on Pelee Island (e.g., Lighthouse Point and Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserves). Continue to work collaboratively with local partners to enhance and restore habitat for species at risk within these protected areas.

Ontario Parks monitors, protects, and manages habitat for the four species in protected areas on Pelee Island (e.g., Lighthouse Point and Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserves). These management activities include invasive species management, habitat management of encroaching shrubs, managing recreational pressures, and supporting research and partner efforts. Ontario Parks also supports ongoing inventory and monitoring of species at risk through research and inventory activities, and by facilitating activities of other organizations and individuals. For example, Ontario Parks staff conduct regular (annual) monitoring programs for a variety of species including Small-mouth Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma on Pelee Island.

Between 2014 and 2017, the Government of Ontario conducted province-wide surveillance for B. dendrobatidis (Bd) and B. salamandrivorans (Bsal), the fungi that causes the deadly Chytridiomycosis disease in amphibians. Samples were collected and tested from 1041 frogs, toads and salamanders across Ontario. The Bd fungus was found in 113 samples from 11 species. However, Chytridiomycosis was not detected, suggesting that serious disease outbreaks resulting from the presence of the Bd fungus are rare in Ontario. Bsal was not detected, but models of climatic suitability and salamander species richness were generated to predict where Bsal would be most impactful to salamanders if introduced to Ontario. This work provides important new information about the prevalence of these pathogens in Ontario and the potential threat they pose to species at risk salamanders on Pelee Island.

Additional progress made towards implementing these actions is described in the following sections.

Ontario’s Invasive Species Act

The GRS for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) indicates that invasive species (e.g., invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis ssp. australis)) pose a threat to the survival and recovery of these species in Ontario. The Ontario Invasive Species Strategic Plan, 2012 and the Invasive Species Act, 2015 provide the policy and legislative framework to support the prevention, detection and control of invasive species in Ontario. Through the implementation of this policy and legislative framework, the Government of Ontario has been taking steps to reduce the threat that invasive species pose to the Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma. In particular, to prevent its further spread and introduction, in 2016 invasive Phragmites was listed as a restricted species under the Invasive Species Act. It is now illegal to import, deposit, release, breed/grow, buy, sell, lease or trade this restricted invasive species in Ontario. It is also illegal to bring a restricted species into a provincial park or conservation reserve and to possess, transport, deposit or release them in these protected areas. In addition, the Government of Ontario has been taking action to advance the management of invasive Phragmites by working with partners to identify innovative solutions to control this invasive plant. For example, the Government of Ontario is working with partners on a pilot project that uses an overwater herbicide to control invasive Phragmites and has also been working with federal agencies to support research into biological control agents.

Guides and resources

Effective protection and recovery of species at risk and their habitat requires comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of species’ occurrence and distribution. Many species at risk snakes are rare, occur at low densities and are difficult to detect. In response to the need for reliable, science-based survey methods for Ontario’s species at risk snakes, including the Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake, the Government of Ontario developed a Survey Protocol for Ontario’s Species at Risk Snakes in 2016.

Several of the recovery actions for Blue Racer involve monitoring and creating suitable habitat to help improve population viability and connectivity on Pelee Island. In 2018, a Best Management Practices for Identifying, Managing and Creating Habitat for Ontario’s Species at Risk Snakes was developed. This document provides in-depth science advice that will help inform and facilitate several of the habitat-related recovery actions for Blue Racer.

The Government of Ontario has also supported the development of Best Management Practices to minimize the adverse impacts of invasive Phragmites (Phragmites australis) on species at risk by providing direction on the control of Phragmites in species at risk habitats in Ontario, and has also supported the development of the Best Management Practices for Invasive Phragmites (2021) by the Ontario Invasive Species Plant Council.

Occurrences and distribution

In Ontario, the Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) are only found on Pelee Island. The largest population of the Lake Erie Watersnake occurs on Pelee Island, while smaller populations are found on nearby islands in western Lake Erie.

For the review of progress for the Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake, occurrence information has been assessed at a landscape scale using one by one kilometre grid “squares” to approximate the distribution of these species. The squares were used to estimate where the species have been recently observed (i.e., has been observed within the past 20 years) as well as squares where the species occurrence data are considered to be historical footnote 1. Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) have a finite number of small, isolated populations on Pelee Island that are associated with specific breeding sites, and up-to-date information on the location and status of these populations is available based on recent survey and monitoring work. For this review of progress, this detailed population-level information was used to describe the recent and historical distribution of Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma.

Blue Racer

The Blue Racer has been recently observed in 34 squares on Pelee Island, and there are 26 additional squares with historical observations of the species on the island. This equates to a potential island-wide range of approximately 34 square kilometres based on recent observations of the species, and an additional 26 square kilometres based on historical observations. There are also 265 historical observations of the Blue Racer on the mainland of Ontario in the Point Pelee and Grand Bend areas. However, based on the age of those records, the species is considered to be extirpated in those regions.

The government’s central repository at the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) has received 926 records of Blue Racer. These records are based on observations between 1971 and 2021 and come from a variety of sources. Since 2008, the NHIC has received 526 records of the species. These records have refined our knowledge of the species’ past and present distribution in Ontario, which helps inform protection and recovery efforts for the Blue Racer. Based on records that have been received since 2008, the species’ presence has been re-confirmed in three squares that were identified as historical in 2008, and the species has been observed in seven additional squares in which it was not previously known to occur. The identification of seven squares in which the species was not previously known to occur likely does not represent an increase in the species distribution on the landscape, but rather increased knowledge about the distribution of the species based on recent search effort. Since 2008, 13 squares have changed from extant to historical based on a lack of observations in the past 20 years. It is possible that the species persists in these 13 squares despite the lack of recent occurrence records. However, the trend toward an increasing number of historical squares over time despite considerable search effort in recent years suggests an ongoing decline in the distribution of this species in Ontario.

Lake Erie Watersnake

The Lake Erie Watersnake has been recently observed in 62 squares, and there are nine additional squares with historical observations of the species. This equates to a potential range of approximately 62 square kilometres based on recent observations of the species, and an additional nine square kilometres based on historical observations. The species is considered to be extirpated in two of these historical squares, which represent two small islands on which the species has not been observed in over 50 years despite recent search effort.

The government’s central repository at the Natural Heritage Information Centre (NHIC) has received 3,337 records of Lake Erie Watersnake. These records are based on observations between 1910 and 2021 and come from a variety of sources. Since 2008, the NHIC has received 162 records of the species. These records have refined our knowledge of the species’ past and present distribution in Ontario, which helps inform protection and recovery efforts for the Lake Erie Watersnake. Based on records that have been received since 2008, the species’ presence has been re-confirmed in 5 squares that were identified as historical in 2008, and the species has been observed in 12 additional squares in which it was not previously known to occur. The identification of 12 squares in which the species was not previously known to occur likely does not represent an actual increase in the species distribution on the landscape, but rather increased knowledge about the distribution of the species based on recent search effort. Since 2008, three squares have changed from extant to historical based on a lack of observations in the past 20 years. Overall, these data suggest that the species’ distribution in Ontario has likely remained relatively stable since the ESA came into force in 2008, which demonstrates alignment with the GRS goal for this species. 

Small-mouthed Salamander

In Ontario, the Small-mouthed Salamander is only found on Pelee Island. Nine populations of Small-mouthed Salamander have been documented in Ontario. The number of populations reported here is based on an assessment of Small-mouthed Salamander distribution and habitat connectivity on Pelee Island. This assessment considered the NHIC occurrence data, a recent study on salamander movement and habitat connectivity on Pelee Island (Smith 2022) and consultation with species experts (Hossie pers. comm. 2022) . Seven of these populations are extant (i.e., the species was observed within the past 20 years), and two are extirpated. The historical loss of most of the wetland and forest habitat on Pelee Island has severely fragmented this species’ habitat, and these remaining populations are isolated from each other by large expanses of unsuitable habitat.

The government’s central repository at the NHIC has received 169 records of Small-mouthed Salamander. These records come from a variety of sources and represent over 326 individuals that were observed between 1984 and 2019. Since 2008, the NHIC has received 153 of these records, representing 163 individuals. These records have helped to refine our knowledge of the species’ past and present distribution in Ontario and are important in informing protection and recovery efforts for the Small-mouthed Salamander. Records that have been submitted since 2008 have confirmed the status of three extant populations and indicate that four previously undocumented populations have been discovered.

The extirpation of two populations some time in the 1990s represents a historical decline in the distribution of this species in Ontario. The four newly identified populations are the result of extensive search effort expended by researchers from Trent University. These newly identified populations likely do not represent an actual increase in the number of populations on the landscape, but rather increased knowledge about the distribution of the species. Overall, these data suggest that the species’ distribution in Ontario has remained relatively stable since this species was added to the SARO List. Maintaining a stable distribution while addressing other key elements of the GRS goal (mitigating threats, increasing connectivity) demonstrates progress toward facilitating future increases in the species distribution and aligns with the overall GRS goal of ensuring long-term viability and persistence of the Ontario populations

Unisexual Ambystoma

In Ontario, the Unisexual Ambystoma is only found on Pelee Island. Ten populations of Unisexual Ambystoma have been documented in Ontario. The number of populations reported here is based on an assessment of Unisexual Ambystoma distribution and habitat connectivity on Pelee Island. This assessment considered NHIC occurrence data, a recent study on salamander movement ecology and habitat connectivity on Pelee Island (Smith 2022), and consultation with species experts (Hossie pers. comm. 2022). Seven of these populations are extant (i.e., the species was observed within the past 20 years), one is historical, and two are extirpated. The historical loss of most of the wetland and forest habitat on Pelee Island has severely fragmented this species’ habitat, and these remaining populations are isolated from each other.

The government’s central repository at the NHIC has received 874 records of Unisexual Ambystoma. These records come from a variety of sources and represent over 2,413 individuals that were observed between 1984 and 2019. Since 2008, the NHIC has received 866 of these records representing 1,434 individuals. These records have helped to refine our knowledge of the species’ past and present distribution in Ontario, and they are important in informing protection and recovery efforts for the Unisexual Ambystoma.

Records that have been submitted since 2008 have confirmed the status of three extant populations and indicate that four previously undocumented populations have been discovered. Due to a lack of recent records from a private property on the northwest corner of the island, the status of one population that was previously known to be extant is now considered to be historical.

The extirpation of two populations some time in the 1990s represents a historical decline in the distribution of this species in Ontario. The four newly identified populations are the result of extensive search effort expended by researchers from Trent University. These newly identified populations likely do not represent an actual increase in the number of populations on the landscape, but rather increased knowledge about the distribution of the species. Overall, these data suggest that the species’ distribution in Ontario has remained relatively stable since these species was added to the SARO List. Maintaining a stable distribution while addressing other key elements of the GRS goal (mitigating threats, increasing connectivity) demonstrates progress toward facilitating future increases in the species distribution and aligns with the overall GRS goal of ensuring long-term viability and persistence of the Ontario populations

Despite considerable search effort in recent years, no new records have been submitted from the northwest corner of the island due to restricted access to the property on which the salamanders occur. Thus, the change in status of this population from extant to historical is not necessarily reflective of any actual change in the abundance or distribution of the species. The most recent search effort in this area occurred in 2000 and indicated that the population was healthy and did not show any evidence of decline at that time. In circumstances such as this, a precautionary approach should be used when interpreting the historical status; until updated information is available for this population, it is recommended that it continue to be treated as extant for the purposes of species at risk protection and recovery decisions.

It is possible that there are observations of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma that have not been submitted to the government. Encouraging the submission of observations of this species is included in the GRS as a government-led action. Submission of species observations increases our knowledge of where they occur and is important in informing ongoing protection and recovery actions for these species.

Everyone is encouraged, or may be required by an authorization or approval to submit observations of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, and any other species at risk observed, to the NHIC for incorporation into the provincial record of observations.

  • 926
    observations of Blue Racer were submitted to the NHIC since 2008
  • 3,337
    observations Lake Erie Watersnake were submitted to the NHIC since 2008
  • 169
    observations of Small-mouthed Salamander were submitted to the NHIC since 2008
  • 866
    observations of Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamader population dependent) were submitted to the NHIC since 2008

Government-supported stewardship projects

An important government-led action in the GRS for these species is to support partners to undertake activities to protect and recover the species. Through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program the government has supported 29 projects ($2,417,377) designed to contribute to the protection and recovery of Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, among other species footnote 2 . Three of these projects focussed exclusively on Blue Racer ($278,003), five focussed exclusively on Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma ($406,797), one focussed exclusively on Lake Erie Watersnake ($6,395), while the other 20 projects ($1,726,181) focused on multiple species at risk, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and/or Unisexual Ambystoma. In addition to the government funding, partners focusing exclusively on these species reported they were successful in securing additional funding and in-kind support from other sources (Blue Racer: $200,375; Lake Erie Watersnake: $4,000; Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma: $559,586), as did partners with broader projects designed to benefit multiple species at risk, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma ($1,683,625). The in-kind support includes time and expertise provided by volunteers.

Stewardship partners reported that provincial funding helped them to secure in-kind support by involving:

  • 50 individuals who volunteered 1,696 hours of their time towards protection and recovery activities that focused exclusively on Blue Racer, which has an estimated value of $75,152
  • 57 individuals who volunteered 2,767 hours of their time towards protection and recovery activities that focused exclusively on Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, which has an estimated value of $129,552
  • two individuals who volunteered 80 hours of their time towards protection and recovery activities that focused exclusively on the Lake Erie Watersnake, which has an estimated value of $4,000

Partners also reported that through both their efforts and the efforts of their volunteers to implement GRS actions, they were successful in enhancing and/or creating 167 hectares of habitat on Pelee Island that will benefit Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma. In addition, stewardship partners reported providing focused outreach on Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma to 368 individuals, as well as broad outreach on multiple species, including Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma to 65,454 individuals.

The remainder of this section highlights two projects supported through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program that contribute to government-supported recovery actions for these species.

Trent University’s Pelee Island salamander inventory and monitoring projects

With the support of the SARSP, a long-term survey, monitoring and research program on the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) was initiated in 2015 by Dr. Dennis Murray and Dr. Thomas Hossie at Trent University. This intensive, range-wide program has greatly improved our knowledge of these species and their recovery needs in Ontario. Researchers conducted extensive surveys for these species annually by setting minnow traps in known and potential breeding ponds in the early spring to capture breeding adults; dip-netting for larvae in known and potential breeding sites during the summer; and establishing and searching cover board arrays throughout terrestrial habitat. These surveys have provided detailed information on the current distribution of these species in Ontario and led to the discovery of several previously unknown breeding sites, increasing the total number of known primary breeding sites from three in 2008 to 11 in 2021. Researchers marked adult salamanders using Visible Implant Elastomer, which involves injecting a small amount of non-toxic elastomer under the skin. By using different colour combinations in different locations on the body, researchers can identify individual salamanders when they are recaptured. By sampling the population over multiple years and using these mark-recapture techniques, researchers were able to estimate local population abundance at several of the main breeding sites across the island.

Researchers were also able to determine the relative proportion of Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) at each site by extracting and analysing genetic samples from captured individuals. Population estimates for individual breeding sites ranged from hundreds to over a thousand salamanders, depending on the site. However, the genetic analysis revealed that Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) accounted for most of the sampled individuals and that the Small-mouthed Salamanders only made up 3.8% of the adults and 5.1% of the larvae that were sampled. When compared to estimates from a similar study from 1984-1991, these results indicate that there has been a statistically significant decrease in the proportion of Small-mouthed Salamander at sites with comparable data, except for one site where Small-mouthed Salamanders have remained rare (i.e., <2% of the local assemblage). Unfortunately, this research has also found that Blue-spotted Salamanders, which are an alternate host for Unisexual Ambystoma on the island, have disappeared from much of the island; only 3 individuals have been captured despite thousands of salamander samples being collected since 2015.

Nature Conservancy of Canada Habitat Creation, Restoration and Management

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) owns several properties on Pelee Island, which are managed for biodiversity conservation. With support from the SARSP, the NCC has restored, created and managed habitat for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) across several properties on Pelee Island over the past decade. For example, the NCC has created three ponds for the purpose of providing breeding habitat for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma and, in 2021, one of these ponds was documented to support successful breeding by these species. By working closely with Trent University researchers also supported by SARSP, NCC was able to modify the other two ponds in 2021 to be better suited as breeding habitat. In 2022, all three ponds were successfully used for breeding by the salamanders. On another property, the NCC has restored 34.4 hectares of habitat for Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) by creating grassland, open alvar and wetlands in an old agricultural field. The NCC has also been actively managing existing habitats across Pelee Island to maintain suitable conditions for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). These habitat management activities have included extensive removal of invasive woody species in Blue Racer habitat, as well as controlling invasive phragmites in several areas occupied by Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).

Species at Risk Stewardship Program

  • 29

    projects included Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander, Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander population dependent)

  • $2,417,377

    for multi-species projects that included Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander, Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander population dependent)

  • $2,447,586

    in additional funding and in-kind support

  • 31,932

    volunteers

  • 31,043

    volunteer hours

  • 65,822

    people received outreach

  • 167

    hectares of habitat enhanced

Supporting human activities while ensuring appropriate support for species recovery

Supporting partners through authorizations and their associated conditions is an important government-led action.

Permits

Six permits have been issued for Blue Racer, and four permits have been issued for Lake Erie Watersnake since these species became protected under the ESA. To date, no permits have been issued for Small-mouthed Salamander or Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).

The six permits issued for Blue Racer include three ‘protection or recovery’ footnote 3 (17(2)(b)) permits, and three ‘overall benefit’ (17(2)(c)) permits. The four permits issued for Lake Erie Watersnake include one ‘protection or recovery’ permit and three ‘overall benefit’ permits, and all of these permits overlap with those issued for the Blue Racer.

Of the three ‘protection or recovery’ permits issued for Blue Racer, two were issued exclusively for that species, and one was issued for multiple species, including Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake. These permits authorized:

  • capturing and marking Blue Racers for mark-recapture surveys
  • capturing Lake Erie Watersnakes to identify the species, if required
  • collecting Blue Racer blood samples for DNA analysis to determine the genetic health of the population and sex of individuals

The three ‘overall benefit’ permits were issued for multiple species, including Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake. Several of the conditions included in the permits were designed to implement government-supported actions identified in the GRS for these species, including:

  • constructing and monitoring habitat features, such as artificial hibernacula, rock piles and brush piles
  • enhancing habitat through activities such as planting grasses and trees
  • implementing a Vegetation Management Plan to ensure that created or enhanced habitat would be maintained and protected for the duration of the permi.

Conditions designed to minimize adverse effects include:

  • ceasing all activities within 30 metres of a species at risk snake, if encountered
  • having a qualified biologist on site to ensure the safe relocation of any Blue Racers found on the work site

More detailed information regarding ‘protection and recovery’ and ‘overall benefit’ permits for these species is available through the Environmental Registry of Ontario.

Agreements

One drainage agreement was entered into for multiple species at risk that included Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake and Small-mouthed Salamander. This agreement was enabled through Ontario Regulation 242/08  (prior to the July 1, 2013 amendment). Conditions of the agreement involve implementing actions in the mitigation plan, including, but not limited to:

  • providing training and equipment to handle species at risk reptiles and amphibians
  • not undertaking activities that would disturb habitat (e.g., hibernacula or breeding ponds) during sensitive periods for these species unless otherwise authorized
  • relocating species at risk to a safe area away from the work site, but not more than 250 metres from the capture site

To date, no agreements have been issued for Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).

Registrations

Since 2013, 25 activities that may affect Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and/or Unisexual Ambystoma or the habitat of these species have been registered for the purposes of Ontario Regulation 242/08 under the ESA. Of these 25 activities:

  • sixteen included Blue Racer or its habitat, with seven activities registered under ‘Drainage works’ (section 23.9), one registered under ‘Ecosystem protection’(section 23.11), six registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17), and two registered under ‘Threats to human health and safety, not imminent’ (section 23.18)
  • six included Lake Erie Watersnake or its habitat, with two registered under ’Drainage works’ (section 23.9), three registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17), and one registered under ‘Threats to human health and safety, not imminent’ (section 23.18)
  • sixteen included Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) or their habitatactivities registered under ‘Ecosystem protection’ (section 23.11), one registered under ‘Transition - development ongoing when species first listed, etc.’ (section 23.13), and 13 registered under ‘Species protection, recovery activities’ (section 23.17)

Registrations require the registrant to comply with all conditions of the regulation, such as:

  • preparation of a mitigation plan by at least one species expert for each species that may be affected by registered activities
  • monitoring the effects of activities to species at risk, and the effectiveness of steps taken to minimize adverse effects on these species
  • training employees and contractors to identify species at risk and their habitats
  • 4
    protection or recovery permits
  • 6
    overall benefit permits
  • 1
    agreement
  • 38
    registrations

Progress towards implementing government-supported actions

Government-supported actions are organized under overarching recovery objectives. Progress has been made towards achieving all government-supported recovery objectives and implementing the majority of the associated actions identified in the GRS for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma.

Objective: Work collaboratively to increase habitat quality for the Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population).

  • Action No. 1 (High Priority) – Using community knowledge and species expertise, develop, promote and implement best management practices to manage existing habitat for the Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) including:
    • prescribed burns to prevent woody succession in Blue Racer habitat, with consideration for the safety of neighbouring properties, snakes and other rare species present on-site
    • targeted removal of native or invasive woody vegetation in Blue Racer habitat, with consideration for other species at risk, using appropriate and approved methods
    • removal of invasive species such as Phragmites along shoreline habitat for Lake Erie Watersnake and at known breeding sites for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
    • managing vegetation to support suitable habitat conditions and maintaining appropriate wetland and forested habitat features such as cover objects and forest cover for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
    • buffering against potential site-level effects of environmental contaminants on water quality in Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) breeding habitat
    • managing existing and new infrastructure, such as drainage works, in a way that reduces the negative effects on Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) habitat, with additional consideration for neighbouring properties
  • Action No. 2 – Collaborate with community members and organizations to strategically increase the amount of suitable habitat available for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) by:
     

    Blue Racer (High Priority)

    • identifying and assessing existing habitat and identifying candidate areas for habitat enhancement, restoration and creation where there are willing partners
    • creating a mosaic of suitable habitat types such as grassland, savannah and edge habitat, with a focus on increasing connectivity between suitable habitat patches
    • creating hibernation, nesting and shelter habitats and monitoring and documenting their effectiveness

    Lake Erie Watersnake

    • identifying and assessing existing habitat and identifying candidate areas for habitat enhancement, restoration and creation where there are willing partners
    • restoring shoreline habitat and increasing structural heterogeneity, and increasing connectivity between areas of habitat
    • creating suitable hibernation and shelter habitats and monitoring and documenting their effectiveness

    Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (High Priority)

    • identifying and assessing existing habitat and identifying sites adjacent to or between known locations for potential habitat enhancement, restoration and creation where there are willing partners
    • enhancing, restoring and creating suitable habitat such as ephemeral pools and surrounding forested areas in appropriate areas
  • Action No. 3 (High Priority) Work with local partners to maintain adequate water levels and quality, and hydrology that sustain the breeding sites and migratory routes for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). This may include buffering for the potential effects of climate change on water levels in the future and exploring opportunities to support hydrology at a watershed scale (e.g., restoring riparian habitat).

Under this objective, moderate progress has been made towards implementing Action No. 1 and Action No. 2, while initial progress has been made towards Action No. 3.

Progress has been made toward the first and second actions through several SARSP projects. Extensive stewardship efforts carried out by the Nature Conservancy of Canada, which have been supported by SARSP, have made a major contribution to the implementation of these actions. Over the past decade, the NCC has managed, restored and created over 100 ha of habitat for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and the Unisexual Ambystoma across Pelee Island. For example, the NCC has created several small ponds on their properties for Small-mouthed Salamanders and Unisexual Ambystoma. In 2022, all three ponds were successfully used for breeding by salamanders. The NCC has also been working with and engaging the local municipality, community members and other stewardship partners to undertake a variety of other habitat management projects on conservation lands on Pelee Island. Several other individuals and organizations  have also contributed toward this objective. For example, Wildlife Preservation Canada, Ontario Nature, 8 Trees Inc., Scales Nature Park and Natural Resource Solutions Inc. have been working under the umbrella of several collaborative SARSP projects to restore and manage Blue Racer habitat on Pelee Island. These projects have included prescribed burns and mechanical removal of woody plants to manage and restore habitat, as well as extensive creation of hibernation, nesting and shelter habitats. Another project led by a local resident resulted in the creation of  8.1 ha of habitat for Blue Racer and Small-mouthed Salamander, among other species at risk, by converting an old agricultural field into wetlands, field and forest habitat. The habitat restoration work included the creation of three wetlands intended to provide salamander breeding habitat, as well as planting native herbaceous vegetation, shrubs and trees.

Action No. 1 and No. 2 have also been supported by authorization conditions requiring habitat restoration and enhancement activities to mitigate impacts of authorized projects on Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma. Planting grasses and trees, constructing wetlands and artificial hibernacula, and adding brush piles to the landscape are a few examples of these required mitigation activities, and required monitoring to ensure these activities were effective.

Research undertaken by Trent University and supported through the SARSP has made progress toward addressing Action No. 3 to maintain breeding habitat and migratory routes on Pelee Island. Researchers modelled habitat suitability and salamander movement to predict connectivity between breeding sites and identify road mortality hotspots. Another published study identified several important characteristics of breeding sites, including water depth, water temperature, canopy cover, presence of leaf litter and emergent vegetation, and crayfish burrows around the pond margin. The results of this research are already helping to inform habitat enhancement and creation efforts, as well as the identification of areas where habitat restoration efforts are most likely to improve connectivity. The NCC and other stewardship partners are currently making use of this valuable information to inform ongoing habitat enhancement and creation efforts to assist salamanders on Pelee Island.

Objective: Work in partnership with the Pelee Island community to reduce threats to the Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) through increasing public awareness, promoting local stewardship of the species and their habitats, and implementing threat mitigation techniques.

  • Action No. 4 (High Priority) Collaborate with local organizations and initiatives to reduce threats to the species, including road mortality and persecution. For example:
    • developing programs to reduce road mortality, which may include installing signs and publicizing the need for cautious driving, particularly in areas of high mortality for these species
    • producing educational materials to increase public awareness, such as promoting the need to share the shoreline with Lake Erie Watersnakes
    • implementing techniques to reduce rates of road mortality (e.g., ecopassages, barrier fencing, traffic calming measures), particularly in areas of high mortality for these species
  • Action No. 5 – Promote local stewardship of the Blue Racer and the Lake Erie Watersnake that includes:
    • developing social marketing strategies to help influence public perceptions and behaviours that negatively affect snake populations
    • producing stewardship publications to highlight success stories and engage the public in snake conservation,
    • increasing awareness of incentive programs and how landowners can benefit from protecting and restoring Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake habitat

Under this objective, initial progress has been made towards implementing both actions. Several projects funded through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program have provided education and engagement opportunities for the local community to help increase awareness of these species and promote local stewardship actions. For example, NCC and Ontario Nature organized a collaborative research forum on Pelee Island in 2018 and 2019. The events included presentations on the work being carried out by multiple stewardship partners, as well as a discussion period for local landowners to ask questions and voice ideas. The team from Trent University has undertaken additional community outreach by delivering a presentation to the local school in March 2016 and hosting ‘Salamander Walks’ as part of the ‘Pelee Buzz’ for members of the community in March 2018, 2019, and 2022. These types of events provide an important opportunity for local community members to learn about and become engaged in species at risk recovery initiatives on the island. Researchers from Trent University have also assisted in the filming of an educational video on salamanders, as well as a documentary discussing species-at-risk on Pelee Island. Finally, NCC has worked closely with the local municipality to establish and maintain hiking trails with interpretive signs to engage and inform the community and visitors about the unique habitats and species present on Pelee Island. An additional trail, wildlife viewing blind, and signs are in progress for NCC’s newly created 24-hectare wetland, which will further enhance the appeal of the island as a conservation destination and provide opportunities for visitors to learn more about SAR recovery initiatives.

Objective: Improve knowledge of species’ population trends, habitat usage and distribution.

  • Action No. 6 – Collaborate with local partners and community members to develop and implement survey and monitoring programs to:
     

    Blue Racer (High Priority) and Lake Erie Watersnake

    • estimate the population abundance and distribution of the Blue Racer and the Lake Erie Watersnake and monitor trends over time
    • monitor changes in Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake use and suitability of habitat
    • identify areas with high rates of road mortality between occupied habitats
    • survey for the Lake Erie Watersnake on other Lake Erie islands (e.g., Hen, Middle Sister and North Harbour Islands), where feasible, in order to determine if the species is still present in these areas

    Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) (High Priority)

    • estimate the population abundance and distribution of both salamander species at known sites
    • estimate the proportion of each species relative to the salamander complex
    • monitor suitability of habitat including terrestrial (e.g., canopy cover, soil moisture and cover object availability) and aquatic (e.g., water level, pH, pollutants and fish presence) features
    • monitor population trends and monitor changes in genetic composition and recruitment of the salamander complex over time
    • identify areas with high rates of road mortality between occupied habitats
    • survey for the two species at potential sites with suitable habitat in order to identify additional populations and refine knowledge on the distribution of the salamander species

Under this objective, moderate progress has been made toward implementing Action No. 6. for the Blue Racer, while considerable progress has been made toward implementing Action No. 6 for the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma.

With support from the SARSP, Wildlife Preservation Canada, in collaboration with Ontario Nature, 8 trees, Scales Nature Park, Natural Resource Solutions Inc., University of Toronto and Queens University began a collaborative survey and monitoring program for the Blue Racer in 2019. The program was specifically designed to allow for a comparison of population estimates to a previous study from 20 years ago, with the goal of assessing trends in Blue Racer population size and distribution over the past two decades. This updated information on species distribution and abundance will be instrumental in assessing ongoing impacts of local threats, as well as the effects of recent and ongoing habitat improvement projects. Unfortunately, the results of this work suggest that the Blue Racer population has likely declined over the past 20 years, with considerably lower captures and abundance estimates at one site in particular. As part of this project, road mortality surveys were also carried out across the known range of the Blue Racer on Pelee Island to identify areas with high rates of road mortality between occupied habitats.

With support from the SARSP, researchers from Trent University developed and implemented an extensive survey and monitoring program for the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma on Pelee Island in 2015. Considerable search effort in suitable habitat across Pelee Island has greatly improved our knowledge of the distribution of these species in Ontario, as well as the location of occupied breeding sites throughout their range (see Occurrences and distribution). Using mark-recapture techniques and genetic analysis, researchers have been able to generate preliminary population estimates, as well as estimate the proportion of each species at several locations. The results of this work facilitate assessments of trends over time by comparing to historical data, as well as by establishing a baseline to which future estimates can be compared. Based on the results of this work, the overall proportion of small-mouthed salamanders on Pelee Island is estimated to be 4.5-5.1%, which represents a statistically significant decline from estimates of 14.9% in the early 1990s.

These projects included work to identify and monitor key sites for road mortality of Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma.

Objective: Increase knowledge of threats to the species, species-specific habitat requirements and ecological limitations

  • Action No. 7 – Investigate the structural, thermal and chemical properties of hibernation and nest/gestation sites to inform the creation and maintenance of these sites for the Blue Racer and the Lake Erie Watersnake. Assess the effectiveness of created hibernation habitats.
  • Action No. 8 – Research Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) habitat use (e.g., breeding sites, migration routes and overwintering sites) and habitat connectivity (including dispersal barriers).
  • Action No. 9 – Investigate the effectiveness of techniques to create breeding ponds for the two salamander species, including the factors that influence the quality of created breeding habitats.
  • Action No. 10 – Investigate the effects and severity of known and potential threats to Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake, and identify potential mitigation measures as appropriate, including:
    • examining the potential effects of Double-crested Cormorants and Wild Turkeys on the species and/or their habitat
    • investigating the potential effects of disease (e.g., Snake Fungal Disease) and other identified threats to the species and their habitat
  • Action No. 11 – Investigate the effects and severity of known and potential threats to Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population), and identify potential mitigation measures as appropriate, including: investigating the extent that environmental contaminants are directly or indirectly affecting the productivity and/or survival rates of the two salamander species;
    • examining the potential effects on the salamander complex of predation by Wild Turkeys and habitat alteration caused by the turkeys
    • investigating the potential effects of climate change on the species and their habitat, and the relationship between habitat suitability and hydrology
    • investigating the potential effects of disease (e.g., ranaviruses, chytrid fungi), and parasites (e.g., trematode) on Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population)
  • Action No. 12 – Conduct assessments to determine population targets for achieving self-sustaining and genetically viable Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent) populations in Ontario.
  • Action No. 13 – Investigate the ecological relationships in the Ambystoma salamander complex on Pelee Island to assess potential demographic constraints to species’ recovery (e.g., related to reproductive output, recruitment, and survival in the larval and adult life stages).
  • Action No. 14 – Investigate the potential need for, and feasibility of, assisted recruitment techniques to support the recovery goal for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population). If found to be feasible and necessary, implement, evaluate, adapt and improve recruitment techniques with consideration for the species’ ecology and the salamander complex as a whole. An example of a priority recruitment technique is:
    • exploring the potential benefits and need for a cost-effective head-starting protocol/program (e.g., reproductive monitoring, artificial incubation of eggs, and release of juveniles)

Under this objective, initial progress has been made toward implementing Actions No. 10, 11, 12 and 14, while considerable progress has been made toward Actions No. 7, 8, 9, and 13.

The progress that has been made toward Actions 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 and 14 for the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma is largely the result of an extensive and ongoing monitoring and research program initiated by Trent University in 2015, which has received continued support through the SARSP from 2015 through to 2022/2023. This long-term, multi-facetted research program has begun systematically addressing most of the knowledge gaps identified in the GRS. For example, researchers have set up a long-term mark-recapture study to assess the ecological relationships in the Ambystoma salamander complex on Pelee Island; studied habitat use and identified techniques for creating and improving breeding habitat; and modelled and assessed habitat connectivity across the island. They have also conducted a study to assess the impact of several potential threats to Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, including road mortality and predation by Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). They found that Wild Turkey predation likely represents a significant source of mortality to juvenile salamanders on Pelee Island, while road morality is likely a negligible threat to these species in most areas of the island. These researchers have been working diligently to ensure that the results of their work are helping to inform species status assessments, the development of recovery documents, and ongoing habitat creation and enhancement efforts on Pelee Island. For example, the NCC has constructed and improved several breeding ponds that were created for Small-mouthed Salamanders and Unisexual Ambystoma based on the results of this research. Several of these ponds are now occupied by breeding salamanders, larvae, and juveniles have recently been documented emerging from 3 of these newly constructed ponds.

The Blue Racer survey and monitoring program described above under Action No. 6 is also an important first step in achieving Action No. 12. In addition to providing updated estimates of Blue Racer population abundance, this work also included genomic analyses on Blue Racer blood and tissue samples to improve estimates of genetic distinctiveness, inbreeding, and effective population size on Pelee Island. This research will help to determine population targets for achieving self-sustaining and genetically viable Blue Racer populations in Ontario.

Considerable progress toward Action No. 7 has been made through SARSP projects led by Natural Resources Solutions Inc. and Wildlife Preservation Canada and in partnership with 8Trees Inc. to create and assess the suitability of Blue Racer habitat on Pelee Island. This project included the creation of a Habitat Suitability Index model to assess the quantity and quality of suitable Blue Racer habitat across Pelee Island; an investigation of the properties of natural and artificial hibernation sites and nest sites; and an evaluation of the effectiveness of habitat creation and restoration techniques (prescribed burns vs mechanical removal of woody plants; effectiveness of created hibernation and nesting sites).

Initial progress has also been made toward Action No. 10 through a SARSP project that has begun investigating Blue Racer road mortality and predation of Blue Racer by Wild Turkey to assess the scope and magnitude of this threat. Several recent research studies have also made progress toward assessing the threat of snake fungal disease to snake species at risk in Ontario, which has direct applicability to Blue Racer and Lake Erie Watersnake.

Summary of progress towards meeting the recovery goal

The recovery goal for Blue Racer is to maintain the species’ distribution and ensure a viable, self-sustaining population.

The recovery goal for Lake Erie Watersnake is to maintain the current abundance and distribution of the species in Ontario.

The recovery goal for Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma (Small-mouthed Salamander dependent population) is to ensure long-term viability and persistence of the Ontario populations by managing threats and increasing population abundance, distribution and connectivity.

Effort made towards the government-led and government-supported actions, which are discussed in detail in the previous sections, has helped to make progress towards these goals. For example, a research and monitoring program led by researchers at Trent University and supported through the SARSP has systematically begun addressing most GRS actions for the Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma over the past seven years and has made considerable progress toward several of the high priority actions. Extensive habitat restoration, management, and creation efforts carried out by the Nature Conservancy of Canada have also made important progress toward several high priority actions for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, including improving habitat quality and connectivity for these species throughout large portions of their range. The local municipality, local landowners and several other conservation organizations have also made major contributions to the implementation of recovery actions for these species. The progress made toward implementing these actions represents an important step in maintaining the current distribution of these species and ensuring the long-term viability of their populations on Pelee Island.

Progress toward these goals has been especially notable in the case of the Lake Erie Watersnake. The implementation of recovery actions for this species has resulted in an apparently stable population, which is in strong alignment with the recovery goal for this species. This success resulted in the down-listing of the species in 2017 from Endangered to Special Concern. Although considerable progress has been made toward the implementation of many of the recovery actions for the Blue Racer and Small-mouthed Salamanders, both species appear to have experienced ongoing declines over the past few decades. Thus, continued efforts towards implementing the government-led and government-supported actions are especially important to be able to secure stable, viable populations and meet the recovery goals for these species.

Recommendations

As stated in the GRS, this review of progress can be used to help identify whether adjustments to the implementation of GRS actions are needed, to achieve the protection and recovery of the species. Based on progress to date, the overall direction provided in the GRS for Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma, particularly the implementation of actions identified as high priority, should continue to guide protection and recovery of the species.

Initial progress has been made towards GRS Actions No. 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 and 14, but substantial work is required to fully implement these actions. For example, many of the investigations under the broad objective of increasing knowledge of threats to the species, species-specific habitat requirements and ecological limitations (see Progress towards implementing government-supported actions) are in their initial stages, and additional research is required to fully address these knowledge gaps.

While moderate to considerable progress has been made towards GRS Actions No. 1, 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 13, further work is still required to fully implement each of these actions. For example, moderate progress has been made toward enhancing, restoring, and creating habitat for these species (Actions No. 1 and 2). However, additional efforts to further increase the quality, quantity and connectivity of habitat for Blue Racer, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma are essential to achieve viable populations of these species over the long term. In areas where habitat has been created and enhanced, ongoing habitat management will also be crucial in maintaining these habitats, such as controlling woody vegetation to maintain open-canopy conditions for Blue Racer or preventing and introduction and spread of invasive species in Small-mouthed Salamander breeding habitat. Similarly, moderate to considerable progress has been made toward implementing Action No. 6 to develop and implement survey and monitoring programs. While the establishment of these monitoring programs represents important progress toward implementing this action, these monitoring programs need to be maintained over the long-term to provide meaningful data on population trends. This is especially true of the Unisexual Ambystoma since changes in the genetic composition of the populations adds considerable complexity to the assessment of species trends over time and long-term population viability.

Protecting and recovering Blue Racer, Lake Erie Watersnake, Small-mouthed Salamander and Unisexual Ambystoma will continue to be a shared responsibility that will require the involvement of many individuals, organizations and communities. Financial support for the implementation of actions may be available through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program. The government can also advise if any authorizations under the ESA or other legislation may be required to undertake a project. By working together, progress can continue to be made towards protecting and recovering these species in Ontario.

References

Hossie, Thomas. Assistant Professor, Biology Department, Trent University. E-mail communication to Joe Crowley on June 6, 2022.

Smith, Graeme. 2022. Assessing habitat suitability and connectivity for an endangered salamander complex. M.Sc. thesis, Trent University, Peterborough, ON.


Footnotes

  • footnote[1] Back to paragraph A population is considered historical if it has not been recorded within the last 20 years. Historical populations may still exist, but updated information is not available.
  • footnote[2] Back to paragraph Some projects supported through the Species at Risk Stewardship Program may require a 17(2)(b) permit in order to carry out the project. As a result, some 17(2)(b) permits indicated in this report may have been issued to authorize those projects.
  • footnote[3] Back to paragraph ‘Protection or recovery’ permits are issued if the purpose of the activity is to assist in the protection or recovery of a species at risk.