Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Date
2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Biology
Committee Chair
Michael Kennedy
Committee Member
Charles Lessman
Committee Member
Steve Reichling
Abstract
The goal of this study was to assess the interspecific associations of mesopredators (raccoon, Procyon lotor; Virginia opossum, Didelphis virginiana; coyote, Canis latrans; bobcat, Lynx rufus) in western Tennessee using long-term scent-station data and camera-trapping methods. First, a review of past literature regarding interspecific relationships of the species was completed. Spatial associations were evaluated using 11 years of scent-station data from Milan Army Ammunition Plant (Carroll and Gibson counties, Tennessee). Results of the study showed an association between raccoons and Virginia opossums (positive) and between Virginia opossums and coyotes (negative). Spatial and temporal associations were assessed using camera traps at Milan Army Ammunition Plant and Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge (Haywood Co., Tennessee). Results of the study indicated that spatial associations between mesopredators were mostly random and inconsistent. Temporal overlap was assessed and indicated that raccoons and Virginia opossums exhibited the greatest overlap and bobcats and Virginia opossums exhibited low overlap.
Library Comment
Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.
Notes
Open Access
Recommended Citation
Snyder, Colten Taunton, "Interspecific associations of mesopredators in western Tennessee: I. a review of mesopredator associations from the scientific literature; II. mesopredator associations determined from long-term scent-station data; III. spatial and temporal patterns of interspecific associations of mesopredators from camera-trap data." (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3654.
https://digitalcommons.memphis.edu/etd/3654
Comments
Data is provided by the student.