Distribution and abundance of bog lemmings (Synaptomys cooperi and S. borealis) and associated small mammals in lowland habitats in northern Minnesota (sensitive mammals of the Chippewa National Forest)

Publication Type:

Report

Authors:

Source:

Conservation Biology Research Grants Program, Project Report, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, St. Paul, MN, p.43 (1999)

Call Number:

U99CHR01IDUS

Keywords:

heather vole, northern bog lemming, Phenacomys intermedius, southern bog lemming, Synaptomys borealis, Synaptomys cooperi

Abstract:

A high proportion of the mammal species present in Minnesota are at or very near the limit of their geographic range, reflecting the juxtaposition of three major vegetation types: western tallgrass prairie, eastern deciduous forest, and conifer-dominated boreal forests. For a number of these species, precise distributional boundaries and habitat associations in the region are unknown. More thorough understanding of range limits and habitat distribution is needed to predict possible effects of forest management or other land-use practices on these and other animals and to provide a biological basis for decision making about whether management or protection for such species is warranted. Focusing on one subset of habitats, this report describes results of surveys in the Chippewa National Forest conducted to document the occurrence and habitat associations of species (such as the northern bog lemming and western heather vole, known relatively nearby, where they are at the far southern extent of their range) in that forest type and portion of the state. Habitats sampled included grass–sedge meadows, heath bogs, and lowland conifer forests. Few quantitative studies of small mammal abundance and species composition have occurred in these and other peatland-associated habitats. The report discusses survey results and also the habitat associations of some of the mammals captured. [For example, all Synaptomys captured were associated with either unforested or forested habitat (open heath bogs; bogs with sparse, stunted conifers; or lowland conifer, especially black spruce, forest). A shrub layer of ericaceous plants was present at all sites with Synaptomys. In addition, sites where Synaptomys was found were characterized by relatively high numbers of shrews and of individual small mammals, results supporting the view that Synaptomys tend to occur in relatively diverse communities of small mammal species.] Similarity was found among the three habitats in the number of individual small mammals and small mammal species captured, suggesting the three communities maybe be broadly similar for aspects of ecosystem function involving small mammals.