Lava blisters as carnivore traps

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

White, John A.; McDonald, H. G.; Anderson, Elaine; Soiset, James M.

Source:

Special Publication Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Volume 8, p.241-256 (1984)

Call Number:

A84WHI02IDUS

Abstract:

Analysis of the bones of 58 kinds of vertebrate animals found in two Idaho lava blister caves indicates that in one cave, Moonshiner, 30% (42% of biomass) of the animal remains are of carnivorous mammals, such as wolves, coyotes, foxes, badgers, wolverines, martens, and weasels. Carnivores make up 42% (40% of biomass) in the other cave, Middle Butte. In contrast, the percentage of carnivores in the Recent regional fauna or in a "normal" fossil cave fauna, normally ranges from 2 to 5%. This strongly suggests that both caves functioned as selective carnivore traps. Evidently the bone deposit in Moonshiner Cave began accumulating at an earlier time than the deposit in Middle Butte Cave.

Notes:

Reference Code: A84WHI02IDUS

Full Citation: White, J. A., H. G. McDonald, E. Anderson, and J. M. Soiset. 1984. Lava blisters as carnivore traps. Special Publication Carnegie Museum of Natural History 8: 241-256.

Location: ANIMAL EF: MISCELLANEOUS ANIMALS