Chapter 4 Habitats
priority species. Monitoring plans should be coordinated with other existing monitoring programs where feasible. Monitoring of aquatic taxa is critical to assessing species and ecosystem health and gauging the resilience of organisms to a changing climate. These monitoring efforts will inform future decisions on how to manage aquatic species. Priority Conservation Action, Examples of Focal Species or Focal Habitats • Monitor priority small mammal and reptile population trends and habitat use. Small mammals Reptiles 4.4.7.6.3 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
• Investigate the feasibility of using some form of controlled grazing regime to control invasive plants.
• Study Timber Rattlesnake movements, use of hibernacula, and reproductive success at gestation sites.
Timber Rattlesnake
4.4.7.6.4 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
• Initiate a prescribed fire regime to control invasive plants and prevent habitat conversion.
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2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
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