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SAMPLE PROJECT TITLE

Space Use and Behavior of Sherman’s Fox Squirrels in Suboptimal Habitat: Implications for Conservation

SAMPLE PROJECT OBJECTIVE

Sherman’s fox squirrel habitat preferences, dispersal patterns, and use of space in suboptimal conditions in the Tosohatchee State Reserve in Christmas, Florida, will be examined so as to determine the immediate effects on movement patterns and settlement for this species.

SAMPLE PROJECT ABSTRACT, SUMMARY, OR CREATIVE STATEMENT

Some populations of Sherman' s fox squirrel appear to be persisting in habitats that are considered suboptimal for this species, such as at the Tosohatchee State Reserve near Christmas, Florida. Therefore, to determine the habitat preferences, dispersal patterns and use of space that occur under marginal conditions, we will collect data on the behavior and use of space of individuals at the Tosohatchee reserve. We will assess home range, reproductive success, and densities of this population and compare them to published estimates of fox squirrels elsewhere, such as those done by Moncrief (1993). This pilot study will also determine the best trapping methodology and handling techniques to use for this species, as well as testing other methodologies such as radio telemetry. Information from this study will also be used in future research examining the adaptive value of the large body size and the unique coloration of this subspecies (the top of the head is black, with white nose and ears). Future plans include expanding the study to Wekiwa Springs State Park, where Sherman's fox squirrels live in higher densities. The specific questions addressed in this study, when considered in light of the extensive literature on other fox squirrels in North America, will shed light on the immediate effects of habitat fragmentation on movement patterns and settlement of individuals in this species. This information can be used to greater understand the dynamics of recruitment and dispersal in Sherman's fox squirrels, which will be especially useful in future conservation efforts of this species.

SOURCES CITED (Optional)

Altmann, J. 1974. Observational study of behaviour: sampling methods. Behaviour 49: 227-267.

Kantola, A.T., and S.R. Humphrey. 1990. Habitat use by Sherman’s fox squirrel (Sciurus niger shermani) in Florida. J. Mammal. 71: 411-419.

Moncrief, N.D., J.W. Edwards, and P.A. Tappe, eds. 1993. Proceedings of the Second Symposium on Southeastern Fox Squirrels, Scurus niger. Martinsville, Va.: Virginia Museum of Natural History.