Small mammals of the Bitterroot National Forest: Ecological significance and guidelines for management

Abstract

Small mammal literature was reviewed to assess the ecological role of small mammals on the Bitterroot National Forest of western Montana. Small mammals fulfill numerous important roles in forest ecosystems by supporting a wide range of predators, dispersing seeds and mycorrhizal spores, altering vegetation through herbivory and seed predation, and preying on insects. Coarse woody debris (CWD) is among the most important habitat components for forest small mammals. Guidelines are suggested for managing CWD for small mammal populations with an emphasis on CWD recruitment.

Parent Publication

• The Bitterroot Ecosystem Management Research Project: What we have learned

Citation

Pearson, Dean E. 2000. Small mammals of the Bitterroot National Forest: Ecological significance and guidelines for management. In: Smith, Helen Y., ed. 2000. The Bitterroot Ecosystem Management Research Project: What we have learned: symposium proceedings; 1999 May 18-20; Missoula, MT. Proc. RMRS-P-17. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 45-47