4.4 Terrestrial Communities
widespread Lampshade Weaver ( H. pococki ) spider may further limit their ability to shift their ranges.
4.4.7.6 Recommendations Of all the habitats in the state, this ecosystem is among the most vulnerable to the efects of climate change. Tis habitat type cannot be created, thereby making conservation the only option for these unique areas. Given the high number of endemics and disjuncts, climate-related changes greatly threaten biodiversity here. Several of the species face out- right extinction and others, if lost, are unlikely to ever recover within the region. Priority should be given to several measures that may secure them enough time and space to survive both short term environmental disturbances as well as adapt to longer term changes in the climate. Since virtually all examples of this theme are located on public lands and already managed to preserve their natural features, implementation of recom- mended interventions should be feasible. Surveys. Distributional and status surveys need to focus on species believed to be declin- ing or mainly dependent on at-risk or sensitive natural communities.
• Survey for new Peregrine Falcon nests.
• Obtain baseline data on small mammal communities and reptile communities and habitat use (e.g., identify Timber Rattlesnake den sites).
Monitoring. Long-term monitoring is critical to assessing species and ecosystem health over time and gauging the resilience of organisms to a changing climate. Tese eforts will inform future decisions on how to manage species and their habitats. Studies should include identifcation of population trends, as well as assessment of impacts from conserva- tion or development activities. Long-term monitoring sites need to be identifed and moni- toring protocols developed for all priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other existing monitoring programs where feasible. • Monitor endemic species closely for declines in the near future. Transplantation may be required to prevent extinction.
• Continue monitoring the Peregrine Falcon population.
• Monitor priority mammal and reptile population trends and habitat use.
Research. Research topics that facilitate appropriate conservation actions include habitat use and preferences, reproductive behavior, fecundity, population dynamics and genetics, feeding, competition, and food web dynamics. Increased understanding of life histories
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2015 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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