Fort Davis National Historic Site Aoudad Impact Study Citizen Science Project
Decker K . Fort Davis National Historic Site Aoudad Impact Study Citizen Science Project. National Park Service
Barbary sheep, locally known as aoudad, are a non-native species at Fort Davis National Historic Site that pose a threat to the park's cultural and natural resources. Their trampling behavior can lead to soil erosion, while their wallowing and feeding habits may threaten the native flora, crucial for the park's ecosystem. In addition, park staff have identified aoudads climbing on top of historic structures which can lead to the structures' degradation. Allowing visitors to record aoudad presence throughout the park can assist staff with identifying potential hotspots for resource damage and inform management strategies that target specific areas or behaviors before they escalate. Harnessing the collective observations of park visitors can create a robust understanding of aoudad impact while educating the public on the significance of their contributions to conservation efforts.
- Type
- Survey
- Authors
- Decker, Katlynn
- Publisher
- National Park Service
- Units
- FODA
- Keywords
- aoudad, barbary sheep, FODA, Fort Davis National Historic Site, survey, wildlife