Northern bog lemming survey: 1992

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This report documents results of inventorying for northern bog lemmings (Synaptomys borealis) in northwest Montana in 1992. Objectives this (first) year of study included surveying at least 15 sites with potential habitat for bog lemmings, concentrating on the Kootenai NF; determining efficient and effective survey techniques; and describing habitat where bog lemmings were found. From June 17 to August 21, the authors used Museum Special snap-traps, Sherman live-traps, and/or pitfall (#10 cans) to sample 21 sites; most sites were on the Kootenai NF, but some were on the Flathead, Beaverhead, and Bitterroot NFs. Northern bog lemmings were captured at five of the 21 sites. Elevation of those five sites ranged from 4,760-6,520 ft, and the bog lemmings were caught in or very near thick mats of sphagnum moss. A complete plant community survey was done on only one of the sites where bog lemmings were found. During surveys, at least 13 other small mammal species were identified. At sites where bog lemmings were captured, 0 to 3 other vole species were also captured. One occupied site is the southern-most known site for the species outside of New England. Snap-trapping for bog lemmings was much more successful than live-trapping for identifying new sites. The authors also consider impacts of land management and offer a few management recommendations and list highest-priority research needs.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology