Use of mixed-conifer and spruce-fir forests by an introduced population of Abert's squirrels (Sciurus aberti)

Kelly A. Hutton, John L. Koprowski, Vicki L. Greer, Marit I. Alanen, Carol A. Schauffert, Paul J. Young

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Abert's squirrels (Sciurus aberti) are thought to depend on ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) for food sources, cover, and nest sites. Records of Abert's squirrels using other food sources, forest types, and nest trees are rare. In the 1940s, Abert's squirrels were introduced to ponderosa pine forests on Mount Graham in the Pinaleño Mountains of southeastern Arizona. Since 1989, while studying Mount Graham red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus grahamensis), we recorded Abert's squirrel sightings. In over 41,000 field-hours of studying Mount Graham red squirrels, we documented 498 Abert's squirrel sightings in both mixed-conifer and spruce-fir forests. Behaviors observed included feeding, collecting nest material, nest building, intraspecific chases, and interactions with the endangered red squirrels in this nontraditional habitat.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)257-260
Number of pages4
JournalSouthwestern Naturalist
Volume48
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2003

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

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