Subject: Re:Timberline Sparrows
Date: Apr 13 16:47:16 1994
From: Mike Patterson - mpatters at ednet1.osl.or.gov






>Re, "Timberline Sparrow." I suspect this "new species concept" is a make
>work program for biotaxonomists. In any case, what about the seeming
>parallel with White-crowned Sparrows where we have the race gambeli
>nesting in the sub-alpine from near the Canadian border north in Cascades
>& Rockies with pugetensis nesting in brushy cleared areas below -- but
>note that clearcutting has allowed pugetensis to expand its breeding
>range in the Washington Cascades up to at least 4500 feet (eg., near
>Potato Hill on the Yakima Res for example, also at Stevens & SNoqualmie
>Passes... Also I believe the Sierra Nevadea White-crown race oriantha is
>isolated at higher elevations from the lowland nuttallii. Where will it
>end? Is it not now a game of geographic cookie cutting... looking for
>allopatric subspecific populations, then calling them species?
>
>Gene Hunn.


I have often argued that if we are going to use Linnean nomenclature to name
species, we should stick to Linnean rules. Timberline Sparrow would probably
remain a subspecies. If we change the rules we should also change the
nomenclature. Species identifiable by DNA sample only would be seriotypes.
Species clearly making reproductive decision based on song would be sonotypes.
The new taxonomies are making field work increasingly difficult. This does
not mean they are without value. Perhaps it is time time look at the way
we identify differences to distinguish between what can be done in the field
and what can be done in the lab.
It's all just human need for organization anyway. I don't believe for a
minute that Pacific-slope Flycatchers can identify Cordilleran Flycatchers
or Douglas-fir Crossbills recognize Ponderosa Pine Crossbills. It is a
useful human tool for making certain management decision, however.

I would still like some measurements of Timberline Sparrows and a good clear
recording just in case somebody decides to build a ski lodge on MT Jefferson.



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Mike Patterson, Astoria, OR
mpatters at ednet1.osl.or.gov
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