Lynx in old-growth forest
(Photo courtesy of USFWS)
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Forest Carnivores
Martens and Fishers and Lynx, Oh My!
Lions, tigers and bears get a lot of press, yet the forests of
North Cascades have their own toothy creatures that can take down
the most illusive prey. In 2003, park scientists began searching
for signs of carnivore activity in these wild forests. Marten, fishers,
lynx and wolverines are in their research scope. Finding these creatures
isn't as easy as one might imagine—4x4 vehicles can't carry
researchers on old-growth safaris. They must hike the trails and
travel cross-country through old-growth forest to set up their study
sites.
Researchers record animal activity using cameras and motion detectors.
An animal snaps its own picture by crossing in front of the electronic
sensor. Read Roger's Updates to see how the study is working
out.
Forest carnivores are excellent indicators of forest health, because
only healthy forests can sustain reproducing populations of these
always-hungry animals.
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Roger's
Update #1
Critical
Thinking : 