Spatial pattern of risk of common raven predation on desert tortoises

Publisher: USGS | Science Center: Western Ecological Research Center (WERC, Sacramento) | Format: .PDF

www.werc.usgs.gov — One cause for declines in desert tortoise populations is predation on juveniles by common ravens (Corvus corax), a predatory bird species native to the Mojave Desert. The Recovery Plan for the Desert Tortoise recommended that research be conducted on sources of mortality (including natural predation). This study was implemented to investigate the More... One cause for declines in desert tortoise populations is predation on juveniles by common ravens (Corvus corax), a predatory bird species native to the Mojave Desert. The Recovery Plan for the Desert Tortoise recommended that research be conducted on sources of mortality (including natural predation). This study was implemented to investigate the geographic distribution, level, and demographic impacts of raven predation on tortoise populations. Less...