In the absence of reliable survey data, habitat modelling can direct conservation and fishery management efforts. We have constructed a model designed to predict high-value inshore rockfish habitat, based on the variables of topographical complexity and kelp density. When applied in our pilot study area, this model showed remarkable accuracy at predicting areas previously identified by commerci...

The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), is one of the world's most endangered species. Habitat loss and fragmentation have reduced its numbers, shrunk its distribution, and separated the population into isolated subpopulations. Such isolated, small populations are in danger of extinction due to random demographic factors and inbreeding. We used least-cost modeling as a systematic approach to ...

The brown-nosed coati (Nasua nasua) is a carnivorous species found in all the Brazilian biomes, some of which are endangered areas. The aim of this work was to determine the habitat use and selection, home range and core area of N. nasua in the Cerrado biome, central region of Tocantins, Brazil. The study was carried out in an area of approximately 20 000ha from May 2000 to July 2002. A total o...

Many species of wildlife depend on riparian habitats for various life-history functions (e.g., breeding, foraging, overwintering). Although this unique habitat is critical for many species, delineations of riparian zones and buffers for various taxa are lacking. Typically when buffer zones are determined to mitigate edge effects, they are based on criteria that protect aquatic resources alone a...

The Gap Analysis Program (GAP) is a nationwide effort to find areas of suitable habitat in the US, which if protected from habitat degradation, may help to preserve the native animal and plant biodiversity. In recent years, the GAP protocols used to analyze habitat data have become more scale and species dependent. This research describes the creation of a Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS)...

The threatened Kirtland’s warbler Dendroica 25 pairs and at least nine nests fledged young. One male ringed as a fledgling returned to breed in two subsequent kirtlandii breeds in stands of young jack pine Pinus banksiana growing on well-drained soils in Michigan, years. After a 19-year period of population stability, the Kirtland’s warbler population increased four-fold during USA. We summariz...

Whether by design or default, single species management often serves as an umbrella for species with similar habitat requirements. In recent decades the focus of National Forest management in the Sierra Nevada of California has shifted towards increasing closed canopy mature forest conditions through the protection of areas occupied by the California Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis...