Neotoma magister (Allegheny Woodrat) is a species of management concern throughout its range. Better knowledge regarding timing of activity may improve monitoring and conservation of the species. We used remote cameras to examine activity patterns of Allegheny Woodrats at 9 rock outcrops on Catoosa Wildlife Management Area, TN, February– October 2010. Woodrat activity was documented during all months of study. Highest levels of activity occurred during May and October, during the hours of 02:00–03:00, at <40% full moon illumination, and at minimum nightly temperatures of 5–10 °C. Focusing on periods of greatest activity (late spring and early fall during darker phases of the lunar cycle) may increase efficiency of monitoring ef forts for the species.
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Southeastern Naturalist
Vol. 12 • No. 4
December 2013
Vol. 12 • No. 4
December 2013