Despite its importance for wildlife, most forests in the Pacific Northwest contain low volumes of large downed wood compared to fine woody debris (FWD). We used a replicated experiment to compare short-term responses of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and western red-backed voles (Clethrionomys californicus) among 3 arrangements of FWD: piled, lopped and scattered, and pile burning, a commonly used method of fuel reduction in commercial Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) forests in southwest Oregon, USA. We assessed habitat use, density, and survival of mice and voles during 2 consecutive summers (Jun–Aug 1999 and 2000). Both mice and voles used FWD cover disproportionately from its availability, and they differed in their responses to specific FWD arrangements. Mice used piled FWD (proportional use = 37.0%, 90% CI = 33.0–44.0) 43% more than expected (26.0). Number of mice captured (&#x1d465; = 1.9 mice, 90% CI = 1.5–2.5) and index of home range size (&#x1d465; = 4.8 m, 90% CI = 0.7–8.9) at individual FWD ...

Research on the World's Deserts

Small Mammal Responses to Fine Woody Debris and Forest Fuel Reduction in Southwest Oregon

Scientific study of the relationships between living organisms and their environment

Research on the World's Deserts

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Small Mammal Responses to Fine Woody Debris and Forest Fuel Reduction in Southwest Oregon

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