Effects of Seismic Exploration on Pygmy Rabbits

Pygmy rabbit behavior and above ground burrow characteristics were monitored during seismic exploration in northern Utah in the fall of 2008. Burrow entrance characteristics (height and width) were evaluated at distances up to 250 m from the geophone line before and after the seismic survey. Burrow heights after the seismic survey were significantly lower than pre-treatment measurements 25m from the geophone line, but were unchanged at farther distances. Burrow height was reduced by minor sloughing presumably caused by sonic vibrations emitted by vibroseis trucks. Burrow entrances were collapsed if they received a direct hit by a vibroseis tire or shaker pad. Radio collared pygmy rabbits living near the seismic activity were not displaced from their home ranges by the seismic exploration. Vibroseis tracks typically extended an average of 16 m on either side of the geophone line, and most burrow effects were experienced within ~10 m of this impact zone. A 50m buffer around known active burrow sites is therefore sufficient to prevent damage to pygmy rabbit burrows by seismic exploration. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effects of seismic exploration on rabbits living in the direct path of seismic activity. ____________________________________ In Monaco, T.A. et al. comps. 2011. Proceedings – Threats to Shrubland Ecosystem Integrity; 2010 May 18-20; Logan, UT. Natural Resources and Environmental Issues, Volume XVII. S.J. and Jessie E. Quinney Natural Resources Research Library, Logan Utah, USA.