ABOUT THE CORRIDOR: RESEARCH: ANIMAL STUDIES

Haas, Christopher D. 2000. Distribution, relative abundance, and roadway underpass responses of carnivores throughout the Puente-Chino Hills. (5.62 MB)

During 1997-1999 the Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority and CalTrans funded a monitoring program for animal movement. The purpose of this study was to identify certain key animals and to study their distribution through the Corridor. Bobcat, coyote, deer, and gray fox were the target species. Understanding their movement and abundance, (or lack there of), would contribute to understanding of the health of the ecosystem. 

Chris Haas performed the two-year study as part of his graduate studies at Cal Poly Pomona. Chris divided the Corridor into a grid and measured animal presence on a regular schedule. He would spread gypsum powder in a two foot square and then place a rock with an attractive scent. Each day, for the next five days, he would return to the site and read the tracks of the animals that were lured in.

In addition, certain sites were also fitted with motion detector cameras. When an animal passed close enough, the camera was able to catch it on film. 

The results of his study on how animals use culverts and under crossings are attracting national attention.

Follow this link to see a photo gallery of Chris' work.

Lyren, Lisa M. 2001. Movement Patterns of Coyotes and Bobcats Relative to Roads and Underpasses in the Chino Hills Area of Southern California + appendices.  (14.7MB)

From November 1997 through February 2000, Lisa Lyren examined the home range characteristics, underpass use, and vehicle-related mortality patterns of coyotes and bobcats primarily along the 71 Freeway.  Lisa captured and radio-tracked 29 coyotes and 4 bobcats.

Her study found that the core-use area sizes increased as home ranges became larger.  Although home range sizes among all coyote age classes were similar, juveniles had smaller core-use areas than yearlings and adults.  Coyote home range and core-use area sizes were similar between sexes, home range location, and road crossing behavior.

Over half of the coyotes and half of the bobcats had core-use areas the overlapped the 71 Freeway.  Lisa determined that coyotes used underpasses significantly more than bobcats.

Lisa's results show that roadway underpasses can be effective tools in animal movement.  Consequently, properly installed wildlife fencing can help decrease animal mortality and help facilitate safe movement between core-use areas.