Effects of recreational shooting on prairie dog colonies
Article Abstract:
Black tailed prairie dogs live in colonies and are to be found from northern Mexico to southern Canada. The perception that they compete for food with livestock has led to extensive population control, but their falling numbers could cause serious problems for the 200-plus plant species associated with them and resource agencies need to preserve ecological integrity. A new study investigates the effects of recreational shooting on prairie dogs in Montana. It shows that the population in hunted areas declined 35%, against 15% in nonhunted colonies. Prairie dogs in hunted areas were more alert and spent less time foraging than those in control areas.
Publication Name: The Journal of Wildlife Management
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0022-541X
Year: 1998
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Predicting greater prairie-chicken nest success from vegetation and landscape characteristics
Article Abstract:
The declining numbers of greater prairie-chicken in their home ranges has been blamed on predation on nests and adult females, but little is known about the management of nesting habitat. A new study in southwestern Missouri seeks to determine whether vegetation and landscape characteristics near nest sites could be used to predict nest success. It is shown that litter cover is the best predictor of nest success, although grass and woody cover is also beneficial.
Publication Name: The Journal of Wildlife Management
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0022-541X
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
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