Snowshoe hare populations fluctuate over a period of several years and are thought to send the cats on migration routes in what’s known as the “travelling wave” theory. In a changing boreal region, scientists want to know where and how lynx move across the landscape to better understand how the larger system is connected.
Researchers will build on on-going research in national wildlife refuges by placing satellite tracking collars on cats to better understand the dynamics across the region. Isotypes in the cats’ teeth as well as genetic markers give more clues about lynx movement. This project involves collaboration with local trappers.
The project is a collaboration among the University of Alaska Fairbanks, Yukon Environment, Yukon and Alaska trappers, US Fish & Wildlife Service, National Park Service and NWB LCC.
