The effects of livestock grazing on the bog turtle [Glyptemys (= Clemmys) muhlenbergii]
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Published source details
Tesauro J. & Ehrenfeld D. (2007) The effects of livestock grazing on the bog turtle [Glyptemys (= Clemmys) muhlenbergii]. Herpetologica, 63, 293-300.
Published source details Tesauro J. & Ehrenfeld D. (2007) The effects of livestock grazing on the bog turtle [Glyptemys (= Clemmys) muhlenbergii]. Herpetologica, 63, 293-300.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Cease livestock grazing: Wetland Action Link |
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Cease livestock grazing: Wetland
A replicated, site comparison study in 2000–2001 in wet meadow or fen areas on farmlands in New Jersey, USA (Tesauro & Ehrenfeld 2007) found that ungrazed areas had fewer bog turtle Glyptemys muhlenbergii captures and densities and lower occurrence of juvenile turtles compared to grazed sites. Overall bog turtle captures and density in formerly grazed sites (captures: 3 individuals/site; density: 8 turtles/ha) was lower than in currently grazed sites (6, 25). Juvenile turtles were found less frequently in formerly sites (33%) compared to currently grazed sites (75%). Each hectare of 12 formerly grazed (no livestock for at least 10 years) and 12 grazed (under constant grazing for >50 years; 11 grazed by cattle, one by horses) sites were visually searched for a total of 15 hours over at least three visits in April–September 2000–2001. All captured turtles were sexed, measured, marked by notching shells and released at site of capture.
(Summarised by: Maggie Watson, Katie Sainsbury)
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