Effects of cave gating on population trends at individual hibernacula of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis)
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Published source details
Crimmins S.M., McKann P.C., Szymanski J.A. & Thogmartin W.E. (2014) Effects of cave gating on population trends at individual hibernacula of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis). Acta Chiropterologica, 16, 129-137.
Published source details Crimmins S.M., McKann P.C., Szymanski J.A. & Thogmartin W.E. (2014) Effects of cave gating on population trends at individual hibernacula of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis). Acta Chiropterologica, 16, 129-137.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Install and maintain cave gates to restrict public access Action Link |
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Install and maintain cave gates to restrict public access
A replicated, before-and-after study in 1979–2009 of 20 caves in the USA (Crimmins et al 2014) found that installing cave gates resulted in population increases or decreased rates of decline for 13 of 20 colonies of Indiana bat Myotis sodalis. Thirteen of the populations were declining before cave gates were installed, and either increased (8 populations) or continued to decline at a reduced rate (5 populations) after installation (data reported as statistical model results). Seven of the populations were increasing before cave gates were installed, and either declined (4 populations) or continued to increase at a reduced rate (3 populations) after installation (data reported as statistical model results). Annual population counts were carried out between 1979 and 2009 using a standard protocol before (during 4–15 years) and after (during 4–16 years) installation of cave gates. All caves had average populations of >100 individuals. Change-point detection modelling was used to estimate population trends. The authors state that confounding factors, such as gate design, human activities and regional differences were not accounted for.
(Summarised by: Anna Berthinussen)
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