Ecological Studies of Wolves on Isle Royale - Annual Report 1989-1990 (Covering the thirty-second year of research)
Peterson RO. 1990. Ecological Studies of Wolves on Isle Royale - Annual Report 1989-1990 (Covering the thirty-second year of research). Isle Royale Natural History Association. Houghton, MI
The wolf population on Isle Royale National Park increased slightly to 15 animals in 1990, reversing a 5 year decline and was the result of an unprecedented lack of mortality. Intensified studies of wolves continued in 1989 in order to better understand the factors involved in the recent wolf decline. Seven wolves have now been live-captured and blood-sampled for disease and genetics studies, and were released wearing radiocollars. Genetic loss through inbreeding has the strongest support as an explanation for the wolf decline. Lyme disease effects on wolves remain unknown. While canine parvovirus (CPV) raised initial concern in 1988, we have found no evidence that CPV is currently a problem. The moose population was estimated at 1,216 (+-) 163, after a 25% decline in the last two years. Heavy mortality in 1989 was attributed to the influence of winter ticks, and recruitment of calves was relatively low.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Peterson, Rolf
- Date of Issue
- 1990-03-31
- Publisher
- Isle Royale Natural History Association
- Units
- ISRO
- Keywords
- Aerial Survey, Ecology, Gray Wolf (Canis lupus), Isle Royale National Park, Mammals, Michigan, Monitoring, Moose (Alces alces), Radio Collar