Chapter 4 Habitats
4.4.4.6.3 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 • Conduct genetic studies across taxonomic groups to assess degree of population isolation/gene flow and determine taxonomic status (primarily bird taxa thought to be southern Appalachian endemics).
• Initiate habitat-use studies for many species to assess use of microhabitats, forest age classes, and habitat spatial relationships.
• Conduct research on habitat management techniques to successfully establish mixed spruce- northern hardwood stands in non-forested areas or appropriate pure/young northern hardwood stands.
• Research phenological relationships of priority species to better understand how changing climate conditions will affect seasonal availability of food resources.
• Conduct research on impacts of Beech scale on forest regeneration and wildlife.
4.4.4.6.4 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 • Consider and implement silvicultural management at appropriate locations to enhance understory development, provide regeneration and habitat for disturbance dependent species or early successional species and enhance mature forest conditions in young to middle-aged pure stands. Golden-winged Warbler
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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