Using Stepping Stones and Translocations to Facilitate Dispersal for the Endangered Ord's Kangaroo Rat, Dipodomys ordii.

Abstract

Animals with restricted dispersal, like the Ord’s kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ordii), are sensitive to habitat loss and fragmentation. I researched two conservation tools that have the potential to help stabilize the Alberta kangaroo rat population: stepping stones and translocations. Using survey data and habitat mapping, I determined that many inter- dune distances in Alberta exceed the estimated dispersal ability of most kangaroo rats. I developed an algorithm to locate potential stepping stone locations to restore connectivity and prioritized them based on their contribution to the network functional connectivity. I then evaluated if translocations could be used in place of natural dispersal to increase rescue and recolonization of isolated habitats. My findings indicate that (1) four strategically placed stepping stones will positively impact the functional connectivity of the dune network, and (2) translocations can lead to successful site establishment, with evidence of occupancy observed in seven of the sixteen translocations.