Journal article
Survey indicators for pygmy rabbits: Temporal trends of burrow systems and pellets
DM Sanchez, JL Rachlow, AP Robinson, TR Johnson
Western North American Naturalist | BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIV | Published : 2009
DOI: 10.3398/064.069.0402
Abstract
Obtaining estimates of absolute abundance for rare or cryptic species can be challenging. In these cases, methods using indirect indicators such as sign might offer useful indices of population size. Pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis) are small, burrowing lagomorphs for which methods for population assessment and monitoring are needed. Current tools for estimating relative abundance rely on detecting and assessing fecal pellets and burrow systems. We evaluated temporal changes in each of these indicators to gauge their potential usefulness as indicators of relative and absolute abundance of pygmy rabbits. Pellet persistence was strongly influenced by environmental exposure, and based on ..
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Funding Acknowledgements
Thanks to J. Witham for his extensive assistance with burrow surveys and other aspects of the project. Thanks to WA. Estes-Zumpf, B. Waterbury, V. Guyer, and numerous volunteers from Idaho Bureau of Land Management, Montana Bureau of Land Management, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, University of Idaho, and the United States Forest Service, for their help with burrow censuses. The Leadore Ranger District, especially D. Hilliard, M. Steck, and R. Riebe, provided vital logistic support and housing. The Salmon Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management provided essential funding and logistic support, as did Idaho Department of Fish and Game State Wildlife Grants. K. Steinborst provided valuable guidance regarding analysis of pellet and vegetation data. D. Sanchez was funded by the Office of the President, University of Idaho, during 2002-2005.