An apparent overexploited lynx population on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Bailey, Theodore N.; Bangs, Edward E.; Portner, Mary F.; Malloy, John C.; McAvinchey, Richard J.

Source:

Journal of Wildlife Management, Wiley on behalf of the Wildlife Society, Volume 50, Issue 2, p.279-290 (1986)

Call Number:

A86BAI01IDUS

URL:

http://www.jstor.org/stable/i293771

Keywords:

Canada lynx, lynx, Lynx canadensis

Abstract:

Available data suggest that lynx (Felis lynx) were overexploited during the last decade on the 7,972-km2 Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (KNWR), especially in its accessible portions. Lynx harvest during the anticipated peak population (1983–1984) was >80% below that of the last peak (1973–1974) despite increased trapping effort, adequate habitat, and abundant prey. The majority (66%) of lynx taken from 1977–1984 came from remote habitats rather than accessible, prey-abundant habitats. Radio-collared lynx mortality, primarily from trapping, increased from 41 to 86% between 2 trapping seasons (1982–1983 and 1983–1984) and totaled 90% during 649 days (1982–1984). Mortality rates were higher for adult males (88%) than adult females (45%). Two radio-collared adult females with young used 50- and 89-km2 areas while 2 adult males used 64- and 783-km2 areas. Lowland (129 m) forest in a 1947-burned area and upland (346 m) transitional habitats were utilized by lynx. Estimated snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) densities were as high as 1,233/km2 in a 1947-burned forest during 1983 and 1984. Low lynx numbers and harvest and other data, despite abundant habitat and prey, indicated a depressed lynx population. Management implications and actions taken are discussed.