Overview of forest carnivore survey efforts in the Bitterroot Mountains

Abstract

Disturbance of forested habitats through natural or man-made causes is thought to adversely affect medium-sized carnivores such as the American marten (Martes americana), fisher (Martes pennanti), wolverine (Gulo gulo), and lynx (Lynx lynx). In order to recognize these impacts it is necessary to be able to accurately detect the presence of these species in both natural and disturbed habitats. This is made difficult by the very nature of these animals. They are secretive and, because they are carnivores, are generally found in low abundance. Over the past four years, I have helped develop standardized protocols for the detection of these and other species using remote cameras and tracking plates. Both of these methods are non-intrusive and provide presence/absence information. This research provides the framework for the census of rare species and will allow for the comparison of data obtained from different regions or states.

Parent Publication

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

Citation

Foresman, Kerry R. 2000. Overview of forest carnivore survey efforts in the Bitterroot Mountains. 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. 53-55