Effects of Prescribed Burning on Vertebrate Fauna in Four Ecosystem Types in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of prescribed burning on birds and mammals, in Douglas-Fir, Aspen, Lodgepole pine, and sagebrush areas which are subjected to burning. Species composition, population density, dispersion, and standing crop biomass of birds and mammals in the areas to be burned are to be determined. Changes in these parameters as a result of the prescribed burns will be ascertained. Immigration and emmigration of different species into the areas following burns, and the return of former species are being investigated and documented for two years post-burn. In addition, relationships between species diversity and habitat complexity, and the effect that fire and habitat alterations have upon these relationsips will be investigated. Project Number 195.