Abstract
We studied the effects of forest fragmentation on southern flying squirrels (Glaucomys volans) in southern Illinois, and examined factors influencing nest box use. Ten nest boxes were placed in each of 30 oak-hickory forest fragments. Nest boxes were checked monthly after installation. We measured habitat variables that described the nest box tree, the microhabitat surrounding the nest box tree, and landscape level characteristics of the fragments (isolation and area). Overall, 78% of the 300 nest boxes were used. Glaucomys volans was captured in 24 of the 30 forest fragments, and evidence of squirrel use was found in 4 additional fragments. Only 2 fragments showed no evidence of squirrel use, suggesting G. volans may not be particularly sensitive to effects of fragmentation in a primarily forested landscape like southern Illinois. However, the 2 fragments apparently lacking squirrels were small and isolated. Stepwise logistic regression indicated that G. volans was more likely to use boxes that were on trees with a smaller diameter. Used boxes also occurred in areas with less ground cover, more hard mast trees, and fewer fallen logs than unused boxes.
Department
UNH Library
Publication Date
2000
Journal Title
Biology of gliding mammals
Publisher
Filander
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Recommended Citation
Wong, Catherine; Bollinger, Eric K.; and Nelson, Thomas A., "The Effects of Forest Fragment Size, Isolation, and Microhabitat Variables on Nest Box Use by Southern Flying Squirrels (Glaucomys volans) in Southern Illinois" (2000). Biology of gliding mammals. 2426.
https://scholars.unh.edu/faculty_pubs/2426