BOG TURTLE (GLYPTEMYS MUHLENBERGII) DISPERSAL CORRIDORS AND CONSERVATION IN NEW YORK, USA

Identifying potential corridors for local movements and dispersal is an important but often difficult part of conservation planning for rare species. New spatial analysis tools facilitate mapping of potential movement pathways, provided sufficient detail is known about the habitat use, dispersal behavior, and threats to a species, and appropriately specific regional habitat and landscape feature data are available. Using previously collected detailed habitat data (mapped remotely and field-verified), we identified potential core habitat for endangered Bog Turtles in a 590-km(2) area in their northern range. We created a landscape resistance map based on habitats, roads, water bodies, and slope, and then calculated least-cost corridors for maintaining both population complei and regional network connectivity, identified points of vulnerability in these corridors, ascertained the relative importance of each core habitat and corridor for maintaining connectivity across the network, and mapped likely road-crossing sites. The model results were supported by records of Bog Turtles found away from core habitats. Our results can be used directly for prioritizing sites for acquisition and management, reviewing land development proposals, educating landowners, locating road signs or crossing aids, and other conservation measures. The results are particularly relevant as this species responds to both land use alterations and climate change.