Habitat use and movement patterns of northern alligator lizards (Elgaria coerulea) and western skinks (Eumeces skiltonianus) in southeastern British Columbia

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Many reptiles have different habitat requirements for different activities (e.g., hibernation and nesting/gestation) that may not be satisfied by a single location. Suitable habitat may not only be limited, but also fragmented, making it difficult for animals to move between sites. In this study, the authors examine habitat use and movement patterns of northern alligator lizards (Elgaria coerulea) and western skinks (Eumeces [Plestiodon] skiltonianus). Using mark-recapture (PIT-tags and toe-clips), the authors determine the characteristics of hibernation and summer sites in each species and the extent of movement in each, particularly whether migration occurs between summer and winter habitats. Both species coexisted at many of the same study sites, although some sites had only one of the species, and individuals were found in approximately the same locations in spring, summer, and fall. Thus, hibernation apparently occurs in the same habitat where lizards are active during the summer, and no seasonal migration occurs. In fact, individuals of each species were recaptured on average within 10 m of a previous capture. For each species, individuals were rarely found in the open and were more often found under rocks than in vegetation or under logs; each species also remained close to shrubs and forest edges. Roads apparently are not a major hazard for either species because they have high site-fidelity and do not travel far between hibernation or summer sites. Their requirement for cover means that any disturbance or removal of rocks from their habitats would be detrimental to both species.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology