Chapter 4 Habitats
Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats
• Expand and/or target monitoring systems to be able to assess current population status and trend information for all wildlife species associated with floodplain forest habitats.
4.3.5.6.3 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 and status helps determine the vulnerability of priority species to further imperilment, in addition to identifying possibilities for improved management and conservation. All studies should provide recommendations for mitigation and restoration. Formal descriptions for known or putative undescribed species and investigations aimed at resolving taxonomic status are needed. Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats • Ensure that research studies targeting birds are long-term, large-scale, replicated studies that have controlled experimental approaches and focus on population demographics and the response of species to habitat manipulations where appropriate (as outlined by the National Partners in Flight Research working group) (Donovan et al. 2002) . Similar research priorities are needed for other floodplain forest taxa including bats, small mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. Bats Small mammals Amphibians Reptiles 4.3.5.6.4 Management Practices Management practices that reduce impacts and work synergistically with other conservation actions are needed to enhance the resilience of natural resources. Particular needs include preserving biodiversity, protecting native populations and their habitats, and improving degraded habitats.
Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats
• Make efforts to retain old growth floodplain forest (for Chimney Swifts, bats, and herpetofauna). Chimney Swift Bats Herps
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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