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Riparian: Riparian Corridors for Mammal Populations
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In a recent study of the Montane Spruce Region of British Columbia, 65% of vertebrate species were found to be associated with riparian areas (Kinley and Newhouse 1997). While only a few studies have thus far addressed the importance of maintaining these areas for the benefit of mammals, these animals also use the complex habitat for cover and its rich food supply. Deer, raccoons, opossum, and mice need varying amounts of space to move and flourish. Riparian corridors are the transition between the stream and larger forest spaces, or the areas where many mammals find food and shelter. Only a few studies have been conducted on the minimum amount of riparian width required for various types of mammals. Cross (1985, in Wenger 1999) found that riparian zones in mixed conifer forests in southwest Oregon supported higher densities and diversity of small mammal species than did upland forest. The diversity and composition of mammals in riparian habitats of 220 feet or more and bordered by clear-cut forest were comparable to undisturbed sites. Ostensibly, larger mammals like deer and coyote would need greater areas in which to find cover and food. |
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Oxbow River & Stream Restoration; 2905 Klondike Road; Delaware, OH 43015; (740) 362-4134. © 2008 Oxbow River & Stream Restoration, Inc. Last updated July-2008. |
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