Developing a habitat model for the endangered Virginia northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus fuscus) in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia

We examined occurrence patterns and habitat data for the Virginia northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus fuscus) in the central Appalachian Moun tains of West Virginia, USA with the intent to develop a habitat model. Top ographic conditions (elevation, landform index, surface curvature, slope gr adient and aspect) and proximity to coniferous cover were evaluated for thr ee study areas where flying squirrel presence has been documented via nest box surveys. In our model, Virginia northern flying squirrel presence was a ssociated with proximity to conifer cover (P < 0.001), but not to any other habitat variables tested. We developed a logistic regression model and imp lemented that within a geographic information system to delineate potential habitat. Statistical relations were not sufficient to predict flying squir rel occurrence with a reasonable degree of confidence. Current nest box mon itoring efforts provide needed year-to-year population trend information, h owever, they are not sufficient to delineate potential habitat using quanti tative approaches. More detailed micro- and macro-habitat relationship stud ies of the Virginia northern flying squirrel will be necessary for successf ul management and eventual recovery of this endangered species. Published b y Elsevier Science Ltd.