|
U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Northeastern Forest Experiment Station A survey of the mammalian community of West River Memorial Park in New Haven, Connecticut identified 21 species of mammals representing seven taxonomic orders and 13 families. This community of mammals is dominated by resilient-generalist species commonly found in urban environments and/or associated with tidal salt marshes. The white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus) was the most abundant small mammal captured. Rodents represented the greatest number of mammalian species (seven). The high species richness (diversity and relative abundance) of mammals in the park is believed linked to the area's vegetatively diverse patches of closely spaced habitat types. Deciduous woodland habitat, in particular, provides essential life requisites for many species of mammals. The effects of salt marsh restoration and urban development on mammal diversity and abundance are discussed. Mammals would be poor biological indicators of successful salt marsh restoration because of their generalist behavioral characteristics and high adaptability to a wide range of habitats. No mammals listed by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection as endangered, threatened, or of special concern will be adversely impacted by the planned restoration of the salt marsh.
|