Wildlife associated with scoria outcrops: implications for reclamation of surface-mined lands

Mark A. Rumble

doi:10.2737/RM-RP-285

Treesearch

Wildlife associated with scoria outcrops: implications for reclamation of surface-mined lands

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Mark A. Rumble

Year:

1989

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/RM-RP-285

Source:

Res. Pap. RM-285. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 7 p

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Download (PDF 1.24 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/22801.pdf

Abstract

Bird and mammal populations using scoria rock outcrop and adjacentsagebrush/grassland habitats were studied. Bird populations and bird species richness were greater in the outcrop habitats than in the surrounding sagebrush/grassland habitats. These differences were attributedto the structural features provided by the outcrops. Most, but not all, small mammal populations also were larger in outcrop habitats. Reclaiming surface-mined lands with rock outcrops would enhance wildlife habitat, especially for birds.

Keywords

scoria, rock outcrops, wildlife, small mammals, birds, habitat selection, reclaimed land, Montana

Citation

Rumble, Mark A. 1989. Wildlife associated with scoria outcrops: implications for reclamation of surface-mined lands. Res. Pap. RM-285. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 7 p