Developing a habitat model for the endangered Virginia northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus fuscus) in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia
Rh. Odom et al., Developing a habitat model for the endangered Virginia northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus fuscus) in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, BIOL CONSER, 99(2), 2001, pp. 245-252
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.