• Media type: E-Article
  • Title: Importance of Tree Cavities as Natal Dens for Fishers
  • Contributor: Paragi, Thomas F.; Arthur, Stephen M.; Krohn, William B.
  • Published: Oxford University Press (OUP), 1996
  • Published in: Northern Journal of Applied Forestry, 13 (1996) 2, Seite 79-83
  • Language: English
  • DOI: 10.1093/njaf/13.2.79
  • ISSN: 0742-6348; 1938-3762
  • Origination:
  • Footnote:
  • Description: Abstract We determined characteristics of natal dens used by radio-collared fishers in southcentral Maine. Twelve adult (≥2 yr old) females were monitored for periods of 1-5 yr each during 1984-1989. Estimated whelping dates of 12 litters were March 3-April 1, and females used 1-5 natal dens each until denning ended in early June. All 33 natal dens were in tree cavities on upland sites. Hardwoods composed 94% of the den trees, with aspens accounting for 52%. We recommend that forestry practices allow for a continued supply of mature and decadent hardwoods > 40 cm dbh to replace cavity trees that fall. Where cavity trees must be removed, cutting should be done outside the March-June denning period to avoid disturbance or mortality of fisher litters. North. J. Appl. For. 13(2): 79-83.
  • Access State: Open Access