Nest predator distribution among clearcut forest, forest edge and forest interior in an extensively forested landscape

Publication Date

1998

Journal or Book Title

Forest Ecology And Management

Abstract

The distribution of avian and mammalian nest predator species in clearcut forest, forest edge and forest interior habitats was assessed on four study plots in 1992 and 1993 using line transect counts. Red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) and eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus) were detected more often than expected by chance in mature forest than clearcut forest (P<0.05). Linear regressions of sciurid abundance incorporating conifer basal area and distance from clearcut borders explained 75% and 60% of the variation in the abundance of red squirrels and eastern chipmunks, respectively; however, the regression equation of eastern chipmunk abundance was only marginally significant (P=0.07). Abundance of blue jays (Cyanocitta cristata) did not differ between clearcuts and mature forest (P>0.05) and was not significantly correlated with conifer basal area or distance from clearcut borders (P>0.05). We conclude that the distribution of two important nest predator species, the eastern chipmunk and the red squirrel, are primarily influenced by the distribution of conifers. However, the distribution of eastern chipmunks and red squirrels are affected by clearcut borders as well.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/S0378-1127(97)00253-3

Volume

104

Issue

1-3

Pages

151-156

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS