Using GIS techniques to test a model of the coexistence of the golden-mantled ground squirrel, Callospermopholis lateralis, and the least chipmunk, Tamias minimus
Abstract
Predator-prey interactions extend beyond direct predation and can influence prey behavior and habitat use. This “ecology of fear” has been studied in a wide variety of taxa, and differences in perceived predation risk have been demonstrated to impact species coexistence. Previous research (Smith 1991, Baas 2011) on the golden-mantled ground squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis) and the least chipmunk (Tamias minimus) has indicated that these species have differing foraging efficiencies at different distances from cover; T. minimus is more efficient close to cover, and does not venture too far from safety, while C. lateralis is able to exploit “riskier” habitat in the center of a meadow. The aim of this study was 1) to test the continued coexistence of C. lateralis and T. minimus to determine if their patterns of meadow usage are stable and 2) to use geographic information systems (GIS) to refine the methodologies used by Smith (1991) and Baas (2011). Raster analysis in GIS was utilized to locate meadows with appropriate habitat and determine the distance from cover and area of each meadow. Meadows were observed visually and with camera traps to record the presence of one or both sciurid species. Data was analyzed using logistic regression and it was found that both distance from cover and area of a meadow contribute to species composition. Results are consistent with past studies, indicating that the coexistence of these two species is stable. This research provides further evidence that the non-consumptive effects of predators promote species diversity.
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