bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allonursing and Cooperative Birthing Behavior in Yellowstone Bison, Bison bison
Authors: Jones Jennifer D. , Treanor John J.
Published: January 2017

We document allonursing and cooperative birthing behavior in wild Bison near Yellowstone National Park in the western United States. During spring 2007, two female Bison nursed each other’s newborn calves and mutually cleaned both calves and consumed expelled birth material. Intensive cooperative birthing behavior has never been documented in wild Bison before. This observation of allonursing might be explained by kin selection and reciprocal altruism.
Weight Changes in Wild Wolves, Canis lupus, from Ages 2 to 24 Months
Authors: Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

Weights of 118 female and 141 male Minnesota Wolves (Canis lupus) aged 2-24 months increased almost linearly from about 8 kg for females and 10 kg for males at 3 months to 30 kg for females and 32 kg for males at 10-12 months and then tended to increase much more slowly in an overall curvilinear trend. Considerable variation was apparent for both sexes during their first year.
Evidence of Raccoon, Procyon lotor, Range Extension in Northern Alberta
Authors: Latham A. David M.
Published: January 2017

The northern limit of Raccoon (Procyon lotor) distribution in northeastern Alberta and northwestern Saskatchewan remains unclear. I report an observation of a Raccoon that supports claims that this species has expanded its range well into the boreal forest of northeastern Alberta. Agriculture, industrial activity, and global warming may be important factors in facilitating Raccoon range expansion in the boreal regions of Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Late-Winter Habitat Use by Mule Deer, Odocoileus hemionus, in Central Interior British Columbia
Authors: Proulx Gilbert
Published: January 2017

In central interior British Columbia, extensive cut blocks to recover timber killed by the Mountain Pine Beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) could impact negatively on Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) late-winter habitat. This study assessed the possibility of predicting the distribution of potential late-winter habitat for Mule Deer with the BC Vegetation Resources Inventory (VRI) dataset used to produce forestry maps. On the basis of literature review and roadside inventories in December 2004, I predicted that high-quality Mule Deer late-winter habitat would correspond to mature and old conifer-dominated stands with ≤ 20% deciduous species, a canopy closure ≥ 45%, tree heights ≥ 23 m, tree diameter at breast height ≥ 24 cm, and basal area ≥ 45 m2/ha, and would be located on < 60% slopes on south, southeast, southwest or west aspects, or on flat ground. I allocated weight values to these criteria to classify map polygons into high-, medium- and low-quality polygons, and produce predictive maps of late-winter habitat use by Mule Deer. I tested my predictive habitat rating by snowtracking along 18 km of transects in February-March 2006, and 15.6 km of transects in February 2007. I recorded 31 and 12 Mule Deer tracks in 2006 and 2007, respectively, all in high-quality polygons. The observed frequency of tracks per polygon type was significantly (P < 0.001) different from expected. All tracks were in mature and old conifer-dominated stands including 10-60% Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta) and 10-20% Trembling Aspen (Populus tremuloides). This study showed that it was possible to predict the distribution of potential late-winter habitat for Mule Deer using a series of habitat criteria and the VRI dataset. The extensive harvesting of Lodgepole Pine in mixed coniferous stands will undoubtedly have a negative impact on Mule Deer late-winter habitat quality and quantity. The rating of habitat types developed in this study should be used in forest management plans to determine sites that should be protected from logging.
Evidence of Arboreal Lichen Use in Peatlands by White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianus, in Northeastern Alberta
Authors: Latham A. David M. , Boutin Stan
Published: January 2017

Within the past 10 to 15 years, White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) have extended their geographical range to include most of northern Alberta. In the boreal forest they are most abundant in well-drained upland habitat. We report the occurrence of unusually large numbers of deer seen in a large fen complex in the west side of the Athabasca River Caribou range in northeastern Alberta. Further, we report an observation that suggests that deer may be using arboreal lichen (old man’s beard; Bryoria spp. and Usnea spp.) as a winter food in this region. We discuss the potential ecological ramifications of this observation for Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in northeastern Alberta.
Nomadic Behavior of an Old and Formerly Territorial Eastern Coyote, Canis latrans
Authors: Way Jonathan G. , Timm Brad C.
Published: January 2017

We document the fate of a female Eastern Coyote on Cape Cod, Massachusetts that was a breeding resident of a ~30 km2 territory for at least six years (1998 – 2004) and then became nomadic. Her behavior dramatically changed in January 2005, when she was located on six occasions sleeping under sheds and/or decks in highly residential neighborhoods at the southeastern edge of her range. On 11 March 2005 she localized in a small area (95% MCP range = 5.85 km2) at the northeastern edge of her old territory, where she remained until 1 March 2006. After briefly associating with other Coyotes (late-February 2006), her movement patterns changed again. She used a much larger area (~200 km2) until she was shot dead in February 2007. Tracking data indicated that she lived in localized areas during this nomadic period, possibly to avoid resident Coyote packs.
Grizzly Bears, Ursus arctos, in Wapusk National Park, Northeastern Manitoba
Authors: Rockwell Robert , Gormezano Linda , Hedman Daryll
Published: January 2017

We report on nine sightings of Grizzly Bears (Ursus arctos) in northeastern Manitoba in what is now Wapusk National Park. Although biological research in the region has been conducted regularly since 1965, all sightings have been made since 1996. The Grizzly Bears were seen either along rivers known to harbor fish or in an area known for berries.
West Nile Virus as a Cause of Death Among Endangered Eastern Loggerhead Shrikes, Lanius ludovicianus migrans, in West St. Paul, Manitoba
Authors: Lindgren Cory J. , Postey Rosemary , De Smet Ken , Higgs Chris , Thompson Amy B.
Published: January 2017

In July 2006, three Eastern Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus migrans) nestlings were found dead in a nest in West St. Paul, near Winnipeg, Manitoba. The Eastern Loggerhead Shrike is an endangered form in Canada and populations are in decline. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical staining detected West Nile virus in the tissues of the nestlings indicating the cause of death. This is the first confirmed report of West Nile virus in wild populations of Eastern Loggerhead Shrikes in North America. These findings will challenge conservation biologists in their efforts to develop recovery and management plans for the endangered Eastern Loggerhead Shrike, as well as in the implementation of captive rearing programs.
Long Daily Movements of Wolves, Canis lupus, During Pup Rearing
Authors: Mech L. David , Cluff H. Dean
Published: January 2017

Wolves, Canis lupus, on Ellesmere Island traveled a daily round-trip distance of 40.2 km from their den to a landfill during July 2008, plus an undetermined distance hunting after leaving the landfill. Although long travels by Wolves are well known, this appears to be the first documentation of long daily movements by Wolves rearing pups.
Breeding Birds of Mature Woodlands of Point Pelee National Park Prior to Infestation by Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis
Authors: Dodds Holly D. , Otis Gard W.
Published: January 2017

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is a wood-boring beetle native to Asia that now infests and kills ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in North America. Many ecological communities will be dramatically altered by the mortality of ash trees caused by this invasive insect. The EAB recently colonized Point Pelee National Park of Canada in extreme southwestern Ontario, Canada, a site famous for its unusual plant and animal diversity as well as its extraordinary bird migrations. We conducted a census of breeding birds in two ash-rich mature forests at Point Pelee in order to obtain baseline data on the breeding bird communities prior to changes in forest communities that are likely to be caused by the EAB. Here we report the results of the bird census and review possible changes to the breeding bird fauna of Point Pelee that may result from ash tree mortality and the associated disruption of forest communities.
Home Ranges and Spatial Organization of Fishers, Martes pennanti, in Central British Columbia
Authors: Weir Richard D. , Harestad Alton S. , Corbould Fraser B.
Published: January 2017

We described the size and spatial arrangement of aggregate and seasonal home ranges for 17 radio-tagged resident Fishers (Martes pennanti) that were >1.5 years old in two areas of central British Columbia during 1990-1993 and 1996-2000. We estimated home range size for each Fisher from the 95% isopleth of the utilization distribution generated using a fixed kernel model with smoothing selected by least-squares cross-validation (95% FK). For comparison to previous studies, we also calculated the minimum convex polygon estimate of home range size (MCP) for each animal. The aggregate home ranges (95% FK) of female Fishers (mean = 37.9 km², SD = 18.5, range = 10.5 – 81.2, n = 11) were significantly smaller than those of males (mean = 161.3 km², SD = 100.0, range = 46.0 – 225.2, n = 3; P = 0.019). We observed minor overlap among 95% FK home ranges of Fishers of the same sex, but considerable overlap among home ranges of males and females. Home ranges (95% FK or MCP) that we observed in central British Columbia were larger than those reported elsewhere in North America, particularly for males. We suggest that the distribution of resources for Fishers may occur at lower gross densitiesin central British Columbia than in other portions of the Fisher’s range and that suitable habitat in which Fishers can establish home ranges is not found uniformly across the landscape.
Melanistic Tundra Voles, Microtus oeconomus, from Central Yukon
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Nagorsen David W. , Randall Lea A.
Published: January 2017

Colour aberrations are not commonly observed in voles (e.g., Microtus and Myodes); thus, individual observations are of interest. We report two observations of melanism in Tundra Voles, Microtus oeconomus, collected from central Yukon. These are the second and third records of melanistic Tundra Voles, and the first reports from non-insular populations.
Effects of Hierarchy Rank on Caching Frequency in a Captive Coywolf (Eastern Coyote) Canis latrans × lycaon, Pack
Authors: Way Jonathan G. , Cabral Rebecca D.
Published: January 2017

Caching is useful because it ensures a consistent supply of food for animals. However, there is a relative paucity of data concerning which members of canid social units make the most caches. We provide data indicating that dominant members of a captive Coywolf “Eastern Coyote”, (Canis latrans × lycaon) pack did the majority (78%, n = 46 of 59) of caching. Caching is a common activity stereotypically performed by canids, and dominant members of a social unit tend to cache more often.
Comparison of a Population of Eastern Red-backed Salamanders, Plethodon cinereus, under Native Dominant Wood Coverboards and Natural Cover Objects
Authors: Moore Jean-David
Published: January 2017

Artificial cover objects or coverboards have been widely used to study Eastern Red-backed Salamanders (Plethodon cinereus), a species that is very abundant in eastern North America and known to be one of the most common vertebrates within its geographical range. However, recent studies have suggested that potential bias may be associated with the use of coverboards compared with natural cover objects. In this study, age structure and body size (weight and snout-vent length, SVL) of P. cinereus found under coverboards and natural cover objects at Lake Clair (Quebec, Canada) were compared. Coverboards were made of Sugar Maple (Acer sacchrum), a native forest species dominant in the study area. In 2004 and 2005, a total of 162 P. cinereus were found under coverboards, and 156 P. cinereus were found under natural cover objects. No significant difference in the age structure, mean weight, or SVL of P. cinereus was observed between the two sets. This study suggests that the type of coverboard used at Lake Clair is a good method to obtain an accurate index of P. cinereus population demographics, and is similar to that expected under natural cover objects. This technique should help to establish a standard protocol that could better allow direct comparisons among studies in the future. However, more studies are needed to explain the high proportion of adult specimens found under both cover types at Lake Clair relative to studies in other regions in North America.
Nest Success and Duckling Survival of Greater Scaup, Aythya marila, at Grassy Island, New Brunswick
Authors: Tatman Nicole M. , McRoberts Jon T. , Smith W. Andrew , Ballard Warren B. , Kehoe F. Patrick , Dilworth Timothy G.
Published: January 2017

Nesting biology and duckling survival of Greater Scaup (Aythya marila) at Grassy Island on the Saint John River in southern New Brunswick were compared between 1995 and 1996. Grassy Island in New Brunswick is an area that is notably removed from other scaup breeding areas, being located farther south from main breeding areas in North America. The Mayfield estimates of nest success were 61% and 21% in 1995 and 1996, respectively. Mean daily survival rates were 0.99 in 1995 and 0.96 in 1996 and were significantly different (t = 4.86, P < 0.001). Duckling survival was estimated to range from 38 to 54% in 1995, and was 8% in 1996. The lower breeding success in 1996 may have been due to factors associated with decreased temperatures and increased precipitation, but the fact that the breeding location is atypical to other Greater Scaup breeding areas should not be overlooked.
Late-Summer Feeding and Migration Behaviour and Numerical Trends of Common Nighthawks, Chordeiles minor, near Pinawa, Manitoba, 1976-2009
Authors: Taylor Peter
Published: January 2017

Feeding concentrations of Common Nighthawks, Chordeiles minor, during the evening in late summer were observed and counted near the Pinawa, Manitoba, sewage lagoons during 28 of the 34 years from 1976 to 2009. Counts were frequent but non-systematic in 1976-1981, infrequent in 1982-1991, and both frequent and systematic in most years during the period 1992-2009. Results of 226 counts are analysed and interpreted as showing a major decline in the local breeding population during the 1980s but more stable numbers of transient birds, assumed to originate farther north. The timing and other characteristics of feeding and migratory behaviour are discussed. The limitations of interpreting data from a single location are acknowledged and some systematic survey methods are recommended, emphasizing the importance of all-round, long-range visibility to help distinguish between migration and foraging.
Extension of the Known Range of the Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor, in Northwestern Ontario
Authors: Weller Wayne F.
Published: January 2017

I present the first documented records of Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor, from the Red Lake area of Kenora District in northwestern Ontario. A photograph of H. versicolor was taken at a locality west-northwest of the town of Red Lake in 2007 and another east of Red Lake in 2009. H. versicolor choruses were heard at 11 localities east and southeast of Red Lake in June 2008, and were tape recorded at 5. These seven documented records are 46-56 km north-northwest of the previous most northern voucher, west of the town of Ear Falls, and they represent the most northern locations known for H. versicolor in Ontario.
Wolf, Canis lupus, Visits to White-tailed Deer, Odocoileus virginianus, Summer Ranges: Optimal Foraging?
Authors: Demma Dominic J. , Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

We tested whether Wolf (Canis lupus) visits to individual female White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) summer ranges during 2003 and 2004 in northeastern Minnesota were in accord with optimal-foraging theory. Using GPS collars with 10- to 30-minute location attempts on four Wolves and five female deer, plus eleven VHF-collared female deer in the Wolves' territory, provided new insights into the frequency of Wolf visits to summer ranges of female deer. Wolves made a mean 0.055 visits/day to summer ranges of deer three years and older, significantly more than their 0.032 mean visits/day to ranges of two-year-old deer, which generally produce fewer fawns, and most Wolf visits to ranges of older deer were much longer than those to ranges of younger deer. Because fawns comprise the major part of the Wolf's summer diet, this Wolf behavior accords with optimal-foraging theory.
New Records of Vascular Plants in the Yukon Territory VIII
Authors: Bennett Bruce A. , Catling Paul M. , Cody William J. , Argus George W.
Published: January 2017

Forty-seven taxa, 35 native and 12 introduced, are reported as new to the flora of Yukon and nine taxa previously reported are deleted. The new native taxa are: Artemisia arctica ssp. comata, Botrychium alaskense, Botrychium minganense, Bromus richardsonii, Calamagrostis holmii, Carex incurviformis, Carex mackenziei, Carex microchaeta ssp. nesophila, Carex ramenskii, Carex rariflora var. androgyna, Carex tahoensis, Carex xerantica, Carex × flavicans, Deschampsia sukatschewii, Eleocharis erythropoda, Eleocharis macrostachya, Eleocharis mamillata, Erigeron ochroleucus, Impatiens noli-tangere, Limnorchis huronensis, Nymphaea tetragona, Polygonum douglasii ssp. douglasii, Potamogeton natans, Potentilla crebridens ssp. hemicryophila, Puccinellia tenella ssp. langeana, Rumex beringensis, Salix farriae, Salix glauca ssp. Stipuli fera, Saussurea nuda, Saxifraga hyperborea, Saxifraga rivularis ssp. arctolitoralis, Silene soczavana var. macrosperma, Symphyotrichum subspicatum, Taraxacum hyparcticum, and Zannichellia palustris. The new introduced taxa are: Acer negundo, Avena fatua, Camelina microcarpa, Crepis capillaris, Hippophae rhamnoides, Lamium amplexicaule, Linaria dalmatica, Medicago lupulina, Prunus padus, Rumex pseudonatronatus, Valeriana officinale, and Viola tricolor. Deleted taxa are: Aster laevis var. geyeri, Carex athrostachya, Elatine triantha, Camelina sativa, Erysimum cheiri, Galium palustre, Impatiens capensis, Platanthera hyperborea, and Sonchus oleraceus. Vouchers are cited and general notes on distribution and identification are provided. Four of the native taxa reported here are new to Canada: Botrychium alaskense, Carex microchaeta ssp. nesophila, Potentilla crebridens ssp. hemicryophila and Rumex beringensis.
Colonial Waterbirds Nesting on Egg Island, Lake Athabasca, 2009
Authors: Hebert Craig , Nordstrom Wayne , Shutt Laird
Published: January 2017

In June 2009 a census was conducted of colonial waterbirds breeding on Egg Island in western Lake Athabasca. This island supports the largest breeding colony of Caspian Terns (Hydroprogne caspia) in Alberta. California Gulls (Larus californicus) and Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) also nest on the island. One hundred and one Caspian Tern nests (=pairs) were counted during 2009. Since 1990, the number of terns nesting on the island appears stable. However, more frequent surveys of waterbird populations are recommended, particularly in light of growing industrial activity in this region.
Swimming Wolves, Canis lupus, Attack a Swimming Moose, Alces alces
Authors: Jordan P. A. , Peterson R. O. , LeDoux K. A.
Published: January 2017

In August 2008 at a small pond on Isle Royale, Michigan, we saw three Wolves (Canis lupus) run towards and leap at or onto a cow Moose (Alces alces) standing at the shore's edge in water ca. 1.7 m deep. The Moose swam out into the pond with the Wolves swimming in pursuit while attempting, with occasional success, to climb on the back of the Moose. The chase eventually moved out of our view, but a week later we found a Wolf-eaten cow on the pond's shoreline where we estimated it might have been killed. The animal was ca. 14-yr old with arthritic lesions in the pelvic region. This is apparently the first published report of swimming Wolves attacking and killing a swimming Moose, the kill likely having been made as the Moose emerged from the pond. Remains of a second kill in that pond were found shortly thereafter.
Spiked Saxifrage, Saxifraga spicata, Rediscovered in Canada After 110 Years
Authors: Bennett B. A. , Withers S.
Published: January 2017

Saxifraga spicata (Micranthes spicata (D. Don) Small), a large perennial showy saxifrage endemic to the unglaciated regions of Alaska and Yukon, was rediscovered after not having been seen in Canada for 110 years.
Erythrism in the Maritime Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis pallidulus, in Nova Scotia
Authors: Gilhen John
Published: January 2017

The Maritime Garter Snake, Thamnophis sirtalis pallidulus, is highly variable in pattern and colour. Although this subspecies is largely defined on the basis of colour, four colour morphs have previously been described for the subspecies, including a melanistic form. Based on specimens from Nova Scotia, Canada, a fifth, uncommon erythristic variant is added to the complex colour variation known for the Maritime Garter Snake. Erratum for figure included.
Occurrence of Lake Chub, Couesius plumbeus, in Northern Labrador
Authors: Michaud Wendy K. , Perry Robert C. , Dempson J. Brian , Shears Milton , Power Michael
Published: January 2017

Lake Chub (Couesius plumbeus) were recently found in seven previously undocumented locations in northern Labrador. These populations represent the first recorded accounts of this species in the Labrador region north of the Churchill River drainage and east of the George River. Lake Chub likely invaded this region via dispersal routes provided by eastern spillways of glacial Lake Naskaupi.
Subarctic Records and Range Extensions of Two Species of Tiger Beetles (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) in Churchill and Wapusk National Park, Manitoba
Authors: Woodcock Thomas S. , Kevan Peter G. , Roughley Robert E.
Published: January 2017

Two species of tiger beetle (Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) were collected in the vicinity of Churchill, Manitoba and Wapusk National Park. Habitats were dry, sandy areas typically preferred by this family. No tiger beetle has been recorded from this region previously. Cicindela longilabris longilabris was collected in two localities, one south of Churchill and another on a relict beach ridge in Wapusk National Park. Cicindela limbata hyperborea was collected only on the beach ridge, where adults co-occurred with C. longilabris longilabris. These localities represent significant range extensions for both species. Erratum included.
Rosa rugosa as an Invader of Coastal Sand Dunes of Cape Breton Island and Mainland of Nova Scotia
Authors: Hill Nicholas , Beveridge Leah , Flynn Andrea , Garbary David J.
Published: January 2017

Rosa rugosa is described for the first time as an invasive species associated with coastal sand dunes in Atlantic Canada. Our surveys of 24 beaches on western Cape Breton Island and the mainland of northern Nova Scotia from Cheticamp to Fox Harbour showed that 11 of the dune systems (ca. 45%) were colonized. This was more prevalent in Cape Breton where R. rugosa occurred on 9 of 13 systems, whereas only 2 of 9 mainland systems were colonized. Four dunes (three in Cape Breton) were considered heavily colonized with 0.4 - 8.8% of the dune area with cover of R. rugosa. These beaches had 12 - 42 independent clumps with almost monospecific stands over 90% cover. In general, heavily colonized beaches were found adjacent to communities where extensive domestic planting and hedges of R. rugosa occurred and where escapes onto roadsides had occurred. In most colonized beach systems, rhizomes from clones extended 1 - 5 m to produce younger shoots. The absence of Ammophila breviligulata, Lathyrus maritimus and Myrica pensylvanica, from the interior of many clumps of R. rugosa suggests that native dune communities are being negatively impacted. This exacerbates dune integrity already compromised by impacts of sea level rise.
Observations of Bobcats, Lynx rufus, Hunting Black-Tailed Prairie Dogs, Cynomys ludovicianus, in Western South Dakota
Authors: Licht Daniel S.
Published: January 2017

There is a paucity of scientific literature describing Bobcat (Lynx rufus) hunting strategies. I document 13 observations of Bobcats hunting Black-tailed Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) in western South Dakota. In all cases the Bobcats stationed themselves next to a prairie dog mound in an attempt to ambush prairie dogs emerging from their burrows. In eight cases the Bobcats successfully captured a prairie dog emerging from the burrow, in one case the Bobcat turned and captured a prairie dog that had walked up behind it, and in the other cases the Bobcats lunged at the burrow openings, but did not capture a prairie dog. There were two variations of the tactic: in some cases Bobcats entered a colony prior to prairie dog emergence and stationed themselves next to a mound, whereas in other cases Bobcats stationed themselves next to a burrow that a prairie dog had just escaped to. One Bobcat appeared to have waited next to the same mound for at least 7.5 hr. Prairie dogs may comprise a large portion of a Bobcat's winter diet in landscapes where prairie dog colonies exist in close proximity to badlands or woody cover.
Productivity of Ospreys, Pandion haliaetus, Affected by Water Levels Near Loon Lake, Saskatchewan, 1975-2002
Authors: Houston C. Stuart , Scott Frank , Tether Rob B.
Published: January 2017

Between 1975 and 2002, diminished breeding success of Ospreys was associated with drought and falling lake levels in the western half of our study area near the town of Loon Lake, west-central Saskatchewan. Only 46% of nest attempts were successful in the west compared to 72% in the east, producing 0.88 young per accessible nest in the west and 1.42 in the east. Breeding success was greater in the eastern half, where water levels were stable, in spite of increased human use of the resort lakes there. Our unique long-term Canadian data base results support Ogden's 1977 prediction that Osprey productivity may decrease when water levels drop and fish populations are reduced.
Double-litters in Coywolf, Canis latrans × lycaon, Packs Following the Death or Disappearance of a Resident Territorial Male
Authors: Way Jonathan G.
Published: January 2017

Previous research on my Cape Cod, Massachusetts study site documented the killing of a breeding male Coywolf (Canis latrans x lycaon; also called Eastern Coyote) and a subsequent increase in local pack density one year later. This study documents double-litters produced in two packs following the death or disappearance of the original breeding male.
Photographic Evidence of Bobcats, Lynx rufus, in the Kananaskis Valley in Southwestern Alberta
Authors: Lobo Nikhil , Millar John S.
Published: January 2017

During a study on the foraging behaviour of small mammals in the Kananaskis Valley, Alberta, in August 2009, we obtained video evidence of the presence of a Bobcat (Lynx rufus). This is the first confirmed Bobcat sighting in this region of southwestern Alberta.
Verification of a Forest Rating System to Predict Fisher, Martes pennanti, Winter Distribution in Sub-boreal Forests of British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Proulx Gilbert
Published: January 2017

This study verified the ability of a forest rating system to predict the winter distribution of Fisher (Martes pennanti) in the Sub-boreal Spruce Biogeoclimatic Zone of central interior British Columbia. Forest polygons (i.e., homogenous areas with similar forest stand characteristics) were classified according to their age and structural development, canopy closure, basal area in mature trees, average tree diameter at breast height, and percentage of shrub cover. Approximately 170 km of transects randomly distributed across polygons were inventoried (snowshoed) from December to February 2005-2008. A total of 278 Fisher tracks were recorded. The observed frequency of Fisher tracks per polygon type was significantly (P < 0.05) different from expected. The majority (245 or 88.1%) of tracks were recorded in excellent- and high-quality polygons corresponding mostly to mixed coniferous stands. On average, these stands were 138.2 years old, and had 54.4% canopy closure, 38.1 m2/ha basal area, 27.8 cm dbh, and 11.4% shrub cover. This study showed that the forest rating system was adequate to predict Fisher winter distribution, and could be used to develop forest management plans that are compatible with the species habitat requirements.
Territory Size in Mixed-grass Prairie Songbirds
Authors: Jones Stephanie L.
Published: January 2017

I estimated breeding territory size in mixed-grass prairie songbirds, and explored how it varied among bird species, time-of-season, and year. The study was conducted at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge in north-central Montana during 2007-2009. Across all species, months and years, mean breeding territory size was estimated at 0.43 ha (SE = 0.03, n = 129). Estimates were nearly identical across study species: Sprague's Pipits (Anthus spragueii), Grasshopper (Ammodramus savannarum), and Baird's (A. bairdii) sparrows. There was no significant variation in territory size across months, suggesting little to no dependence on nest phase. In contrast, I found significant variation in territory size among years (P = 0.034), that did not interact meaningfully with species (R2 = 0.02, P = 0.603). This suggests that factors that vary annually appear to be affecting all bird species in a similar manner, which could be related to differences in vegetation structure and/or site quality (perhaps as a function of weather) or less likely, variation in population density.
Tardigrades of Fish Creek Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada: A Preliminary Survey
Authors: Grothman Gary T.
Published: January 2017

Tardigrades are cosmopolitan animals with a patchy distribution record, largely due to the limited collection history for this phylum rather than actual rarity. Most Canadian records are from near coastal areas, with a few notable exceptions, most recently one study of tardigrades in central Alberta. The present study reports the occurrence of 12 species or species groups in Fish Creek Provincial Park in southern Alberta. Eight of these taxa are new records for Alberta, and two (Diphascon (Diphascon) granifer and Echiniscus granulatus) are new records for Canada.
Home Range, Movements, and Habitat Utilization of Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada: Disease Management Implications
Authors: Rosatte Rick , Kelly Paula , Power Mike
Published: January 2017

A total of 28 Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis) were fitted with radio-transmitters and their movements were monitored in Scarborough (Toronto), Ontario, in 1986 and 1987. Mean annual home range size for combined sex and age classes of Striped Skunks was 0.9 km2 (SD = 1.4) (range = 0.1-5.0 km2). Home ranges were smaller during winter (avg = 0.04 km2, SD = 0.05) than during fall (avg = 0.67 km2, SD = 1.09) (P = 0.055) but not different from ranges during spring (avg = 0.25 km2, SD = 0.31) or summer (avg = 0.27 km2, SD = 0.43). Nightly movements ranged between 0.1 km and 3.0 km and were greatest during October. Skunks were located more often in field habitats (56% of observations) than in residential (23%), field/industrial (10%), or industrial (8%) habitats. Ecological data on Striped Skunks were used in the design of rabies control tactics for use in urban areas in Ontario, Canada.
North American Deer Mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus, Consuming a Parasitizing Botfly Larva, Diptera: Cuterebridae
Authors: Stewart Frances E. C.
Published: January 2017

During a laboratory study in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada, I videotaped a female North American Deer Mouse, Peromyscus maniculatus gracilis, consuming a botfly larva, Family Cuterebridae, that had just emerged from her chest. Although botfly parasitism has been widely studied in several species of small mammals, there are no prior reports of the host consuming the emerged botfly parasite.
Major Threats Facing Terrestrial Mammals in Canada
Authors: Imre István , Derbowka Darren
Published: January 2017

Largely due to influences related to dramatic human population growth, threats to many species are on the rise globally. An examination of mammals assessed by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) determined the major threats facing terrestrial mammal populations in Canada. Significant threats were associated with habitat loss and overall mortality caused directly by humans. Carnivores and rodents differed substantially in mortality caused directly by humans and loss of food resources. Large mammals were more affected by climate change than small mammals.
American Pygmy Shrew, Sorex hoyi, Consumed by an Arctic Grayling, Thymallus arcticus
Authors: Jung Thomas S. , Milani Angela , Barker Oliver E. , Millar Nathan P.
Published: January 2017

Arctic Grayling, Thymallus arcticus, are rarely reported to consume small mammals. We report an American Pygmy Shrew, Sorex hoyi, consumed by an Arctic Grayling caught in southern Yukon, Canada. This is the first record of an American Pygmy Shrew being consumed by an Arctic Grayling, and it confirms that Arctic Grayling will consume shrews (Sorex spp.) when they are available. We suspect that the body size of prey is a limiting factor in Arctic Grayling consuming small mammals, with some species of shrews being small enough for Arctic Grayling to consume.
Consumption of Bats (Myotis spp.) by Raccoons (Procyon lotor) During an Outbreak of White-Nose Syndrome in New Brunswick, Canada: Implications for Estimates of Bat Mortality
Authors: McAlpine Donald F. , Vanderwolf Karen J. , Forbes Graham J. , Malloch David
Published: January 2017

Across their range, Raccoons (Procyon lotor) will opportunistically exploit bats (Chiroptera) roosting in caves as a source of food. During a significant mortality event associated with white-nose syndrome (WNS) at a cave in eastern Canada, we estimate that Raccoons consumed 3169–3827 dead and dying Little Brown Bats (Myotis lucifugus) and Northern Long-eared Bats (M. septentrionalis) infected with white-nose syndrome, equivalent to 62.0–74.9% of the total bat mortality at this site. However, the generally small dispersal distances of Raccoons and their reduced activity during the period when bats are hibernating suggest that Raccoons are likely not a significant vector for moving the fungus associated with white-nose syndrome, Geomyces destructans, between most caves at this latitude. Nevertheless, since we show that significant numbers of bats can be consumed in hibernacula through opportunistic feeding by Raccoons, estimates of in-cave mortality due to white-nose syndrome should incorporate any evidence of consumption of bats by Raccoons and other predators.
Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) Movements and Behavior Around a Kill Site and Implications for GPS Collar Studies
Authors: Mech L. David
Published: January 2017

Global Positioning System (GPS) radio-collars are increasingly used to estimate Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) kill rates. In interpreting results from this technology, researchers make various assumptions about wolf behavior around kills, yet no detailed description of this behavior has been published. This article describes the behavior of six wolves in an area of constant daylight during 30 hours, from when the pack killed a Muskox (Ovibos moschatus) calf and yearling on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, Canada, to when they abandoned the kill remains. Although this is only a single incident, it demonstrates one possible scenario of pack behavior around a kill. Combined with the literature, this observation supports placing a radio-collar on the breeding male to maximize finding kills via GPS collars and qualifying results depending on whatever other information is available about the collared wolf’s pack.
Butterflies Recorded on Flattop Mountain, Anchorage, Alaska
Authors: Durden Lance A.
Published: January 2017

Eleven species of butterflies were recorded on Flattop Mountain, Anchorage, Alaska, during a four-day period in July 2006: Colias philodice vitabunda (Clouded Sulphur), Pieris angelika angelika (Arctic White), Lycaena dorcas arcticus (Dorcas Copper), Plebejus glandon bryanti (Arctic Blue), Plebejus idas alaskensis (Northern Blue), Plebejus optilete yukona (Cranberry Blue), Boloria charliclea butleri (Purplish Fritillary), Boloria alaskensis alaskensis (Mountain Fritillary), Speyeria mormonia bischoffii (Mormon Fritillary), Oeneis bore mckinleyensis (White-veined Arctic), and Carterocephalus palaemon skada (Arctic Skipperling). Based on previously published distribution maps, the records for Plebejus idas and P. optilete represent range extensions; P. optilete was relatively common in sheltered valleys on the mountain.
Fetid Dogweed (Dyssodia papposa; Asteraceae) and Slender Russian Thistle (Salsola collina; Amaranthaceae), New to Alberta, Canada
Authors: Oldham Michael J. , Gould Joyce , Bowles Jane M.
Published: January 2017

Two non-native vascular plants, Fetid Dogweed (Dyssodia papposa; Asteraceae) and Slender Russian Thistle (Salsola collina; Amaranthaceae), are added to the flora of Alberta, Canada, based on collections and sight records made in 2011. Fetid Dogweed was found along roadsides at eight sites in southern Alberta, and Slender Russian Thistle was found along a hiking trail in Dinosaur Provincial Park near Drumheller. Both species are weedy and are probably expanding their range in North America.
Occurrence of the Maritime Shrew (Sorex maritimensis) in Black Spruce (Picea mariana) Forest Stands in Southeastern New Brunswick
Authors: Henderson Julie , Forbes Graham
Published: January 2017

Twenty-one specimens of Sorex maritimensis (Maritime Shrew) were collected in coniferous forest of central New Brunswick, a habitat considered atypical for the species. We suggest S. maritimensis uses a wider range of habitat types than previously documented.
Implantation and Parturition Dates of North American River Otters, Lontra canadensis, in Southern Missouri
Authors: Roberts Nathan M. , Crimmins Shawn M. , Hamilton David A. , Gallagher Elsa
Published: January 2017

Despite numerous studies of reproductive dynamics of the North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis), relatively little information exists on the implantation or parturition dates of North American River Otters in the wild. We collected carcasses of North American River Otters that had been legally harvested in southern Missouri, USA, between 1997 and 1999 as part of a larger population dynamics study. Embryos (n = 28) were removed from a subset of North American River Otters (n = 9) during necropsy. Using harvest dates and crown–rump length measurements of embryos, we estimated implantation dates, which ranged from 7 December to 12 January, and parturition dates, which ranged from 8 February to 15 March (assuming an implantation time of 63 days). Our results are similar to other studies that have reported parturition dates ranging from mid-January to early May in more extreme latitudes. Our results suggest that variation in implantation and parturition dates among populations are likely related to factors affected by latitude such as photoperiod and winter weather severity.
Distribution and Relative Abundance of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels, Urocitellus richardsonii, According to Soil Zones and Vegetation Height in Saskatchewan During a Drought Period
Authors: Proulx Gilbert , MacKenzie Keith , MacKenzie Neil
Published: January 2017

Richardson’s Ground Squirrels (Urocitellus richardsonii) prefer to establish their burrow systems in fields with shorter vegetation and good visibility. Between 2001 and 2009, warm weather and low precipitation, creating ideal environmental conditions for this species, were common throughout Saskatchewan. We therefore hypothesized that Richardson’s Ground Squirrels would be abundant throughout the agricultural region of the province and would be relatively more abundant in fields with shorter vegetation. In May and June 2008, we selected a total of 36 study plots of 0.49 ha each in 12 randomly selected rural municipalities in the Brown, Dark Brown, Black, and Gray soil zones. Using visual counts of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels and counts of burrow entrances, we found that Richardson’s Ground Squirrels were abundant across the agricultural region of the province, but densities of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels and densities of burrow entrances were generally higher in the drier Brown soil zone than in the other soil zones. In 2009 and 2010, in a study of the effect of vegetation height on the abundance of Richardson’s Ground Squirrels in the Brown soil zone, we found that densities of burrow entrances in five study plots with vegetation ≥15 cm in height were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than densities recorded in five adjacent study plots with vegetation <15 cm in height. Our findings warrant more studies on Richardson’s Ground Squirrels inhabiting fields with short and tall vegetation to determine whether differences in population densities are due to differences in birth and death rates or immigration and emigration.
The Influence of Willow Salix sp. Rose Insect Galls on Moose Alces alces Winter Browsing
Authors: Rea Roy V.
Published: January 2017

Feeding trials were conducted with Moose (Alces alces) habituated to people to determine whether Moose prefer winter shoots of Scouler’s Willow (Salix scouleriana) with or without leafy willow rose insect galls created by rosette willow gall midges (Rabdophaga spp.). After sampling one or two shoots with galls, each Moose in the feeding trial showed a clear aversion to the galls and dropped or spit out parts of the willow shoot containing these structures in subsequent feeding bouts. Despite the reported importance of leafy materials in the fall and winter diets of Moose, these results suggest that morphological attributes of or chemical deterrents within galls may lead Moose to reject these structures in favour of gall-free shoots. Why galls are rejected is speculated upon, but remains untested.
First Specimens of the Marine Eels Venefica ocella and V. tentaculata (Nettastomatidae) from British Columbia
Authors: Hanke Gavin F. , Roias Steven M.
Published: January 2017

Until recently, only the following seven species of marine eels were known to exist in waters off British Columbia (based on literature sources and museum records): Nemichthys scolopaceus, and Avocettina infans (Nemichthyidae, snipe eels), Xenomystax atrarius (Congridae, conger eels), Serrivomer jesperseni (Serrivomeridae, sawtooth eels), Cyema atrum (Cyematidae, bobtail eels), Synaphobranchus affinis (Synaphobranchidae, cutthroat eels), and Thalassenchelys coheni (Colocongridae, worm eels). Histiobranchus bathybius (also in the Synaphobranchidae) is expected to occur in British Columbia, since its range extends from Mexico to Alaska. Recent surveys to determine the viability of crab fisheries facilitated the collection of non-game fishes from by-catch in bottom-trawl samples. Several eels were collected between 2004 and 2006, and they were originally identified as Serrivomer jesperseni (Serrivomeridae). Re-examination of these specimens indicates that they all are duckbill eels (Nettastomatidae), the first records of this family north of 45°39'N along the North American Pacific coast. Both Venefica ocella and V. tentaculata are represented, with V. ocella found farther north than V. tentaculata. All British Columbia specimens are housed at the Royal British Columbia Museum. The collection of new deep-water species in British Columbia reinforces the value of survey sampling to improve our knowledge of biodiversity.
Sea Ice Crossing by Migrating Caribou, Rangifer tarandus, in Northwestern Alaska
Authors: Joly Kyle
Published: January 2017

Long movements across sea ice by Caribou (Rangifer tarandus) in Alaska are relatively uncommon and are not well documented. With rapidly diminishing sea ice cover in arctic waters, these movements may cease altogether. On 26 May 2012, a Caribou crossed a long span (57 km) of sea ice off the coast of Alaska. The cow successfully crossed after traveling 66 km on the sea ice and eventually reached the calving grounds. The highly dynamic nature of sea ice, which is driven by oceanic currents and wind during spring break-up, presents inherent hazards different from lake ice. Based on three years of Global Positioning System (GPS) radio-collar data, Caribou routinely crossed long expanses (30 km) of ice covering the brackish Selawik Lake and shorter stretches (<13 km) on Inland Lake during their spring migration north. There was also a single crossing on the ice covering Selawik Lake during the fall migration south to the wintering grounds that took place in early November 2010. Five GPS-collared Caribou crossed the short frozen span (14 km) of Kotzebue Sound between Cape Krusenstern National Monument and the Baldwin Peninsula in the fall of 2011.
The Impact of Deer Herbivory and Drought on Population Growth of Goodyera pubescens (Orchidaceae) in Southwestern Quebec
Authors: Reddoch Joyce M. , Reddoch Allan H.
Published: January 2017

During the last decade of a 37-year study of Downy Rattlesnake-plaintain (Goodyera pubescens (Willdenow) R. Brown) major herbivory by White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) caused marked decreases in the sizes of two previously expanding populations. The 2012 drought resulted in an additional decline of one population. Because population growth depends on large flowerings, which occur only every four to eight years, recovery to 2002 levels would take several decades under favourable conditions.
Evidence for the Collection of a Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) in Nova Scotia During the 19th Century and its Association with the McCulloch Collection of Birds
Authors: Mills Eric L.
Published: January 2017

Based on several lines of evidence, a specimen of an adult white-morph Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) now on display in the Macdonald Museum of the Annapolis Valley Historical Society in Middleton, Nova Scotia, probably originated from the 19th-century Nova Scotian bird collections of Thomas McCulloch senior (1776–1843) and his son Thomas (1809–1865), likely between 1838 and 1865. The only other records of this species in Canada are sightings in Nova Scotia in 1965 and 1966. This may therefore be the first specimen evidence of the species in Nova Scotia and Canada. Historical evidence links the specimen with the McCulloch collection of birds, part of which has survived at Dalhousie University.
Observations of Wild Cougar (Puma concolor) Kittens with Live Prey: Implications for Learning and Survival
Authors: Elbroch L. Mark , Quigley Howard
Published: January 2017

The Cougar (Puma concolor) is a cryptic species in which social learning or opportunity learning has yet to be documented in the wild. “Opportunity teaching” is teaching in which an animal creates opportunities for conspecifics to observe or participate in operant learning. We present video data on an observation of Cougar kittens exhibiting social learning and inefficiency and inexperience in attempting to kill a live Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) fawn. Our observations provide evidence for the importance of maternal care and they help explain why Cougar kittens less than a year of age have low survival rates.