Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the kinds, population, distribution, and general habits of the mammals of the Lynndyl sand dune area. Only one article concerning the dunes was found, but several have been written on other dunes; however, none was found concerning mammals. Two quantitative studies, plot and transect trappings, were made and general observations were taken within the study area. Three types of plots; Russian thistle, juniper, and baren moving dunes; were trapped and revealed the following species: Dipodomys ordii, Peromyscus maniculatus, Reithrodontomys megalotis, Onychomys leucogaster, and Neotoma lepida. The most numerous animal in all plots was Dipodomys ordii followed in all cases by Peromyscus maniculatus. It was found that D. ordii prefer open sand; P. maniculatus, sage and R. megalotis, dense cover. The greatest activity and highest number of catch was in the summer. The major cause for the higher number of catch was the larger number of immature animals cught, but food availability may have had some effect. More than one breeding season, or at least a fluctuatin breeding season, apparently occurs in both predominant species, but further study on this point is recommended. The weights of the specimens were taken. This aided in determining the age of specimens and their breeding activities. Other mammals in the area are: Dipodomys microps, Lepus californicus, Erethizon dorsatum, Odocoileus hemoinus, Taxidea taxus, Vulpes macrotis, and Canis latrans.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Plant and Wildlife Sciences

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