Skip to main content
eScholarship
Open Access Publications from the University of California

Factors Contributing to the Outbreak of Richardson’s Ground Squirrel Populations in the Canadian Prairies

Abstract

In the last decade, Richardson’s ground squirrel populations have reached epidemic levels in western Canada. A review of socio-economic conditions and field research findings suggests that such outbreaks are the result of many factors working synergistically on ground squirrel population dynamics and dispersal: 1) drought conditions, 2) poor grassland management, 3) low cattle prices due to bovine spongiform encephalopathy, 4) inefficient rodenticides, 5) loss of predators, and 6) loss of family-size operations to large-scale landowners. In the light of recent outbreaks experienced in western Canada, we now know that the control of Richardson’s ground squirrel populations requires a long-term management program, integrating sustainable grassland management techniques with an effective conservation of mammalian and avian predators, and the sensible use of effective rodenticides. The success of such a multi-faceted management program will depend on the establishment of an effective education program, the institution of incentive programs for a better management of grassland ecosystems, the implementation and enforcement of rules to better monitor the production and distribution of effective poisons, and minimizing excessive use by producers.

Main Content
For improved accessibility of PDF content, download the file to your device.
Current View