The Distribution and Habitat Selection of Introduced Eastern Grey Squirrels, Sciurus carolinensis, in British Columbia

Authors

  • Emily K. Gonzales Centre for Applied Conservation Research, University of British Columbia, Forest Sciences Centre, 3004-2424 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z4

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v119i3.143

Keywords:

Eastern Grey Squirrels, Sciurus carolinensis, distribution, habitat selection, invasive, British Columbia

Abstract

Eastern Grey Squirrels were first introduced to Vancouver in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia in 1909. A separate introduction to Metchosin in the Victoria region occurred in 1966. I surveyed the distribution and habitat selection of Eastern Grey Squirrels in both locales. Eastern Grey Squirrels spread throughout both regions over a period of 30 years and were found predominantly in residential land types. Some natural features and habitats, such as mountains, large bodies of water, and coniferous forests, have acted as barriers to expansion for Eastern Grey Squirrels. Given that urbanization is replacing conifer forests throughout southern British Columbia, it is predicted that Eastern Grey Squirrels will continue to spread as habitat barriers are removed.

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Issue

Vol. 119 No. 3 (2005)

Section

Articles

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