The Status of the Black-Tailed Jackrabbit in Missouri

Date of Graduation

Summer 1987

Degree

Master of Science in Biology

Department

Biology

Committee Chair

Lynn Robbins

Abstract

Fluctuations in the Black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) population in Missouri during the past twenty year period were analyzed relative to habitat changes. Areas where hares were found previously were compared to areas where populations or individuals still exist. A mail survey with 636 returned questionaires resulted in 10% positive responses of reported sightings. Posters and other media generated additional reported localities. A total of 114 sightings since 1985 have been submitted and 99 of these were investigated. Earlier studies in 1969 and 1979 had indicated a decrease in range and population numbers. This trend has continued and the remaining animals are very localized and scattered. They are now found only in association with legumes and overgrazed pastures or small tracts of grain crops.

Subject Categories

Biology

Copyright

© Jamie L Norton

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

Share

COinS