Project T-21-P1

Project Title: Ecology and Genetics of Red Squirrels in Illinois

Community and/or Species Focus: Red squirrel

Goals/Objectives:

1. Investigate the Illinois population's genetic origin
2. Discover state distribution and population stability
3. Understand their resource and habitat uses

Achievements:

1. ​Determined genetic origin to be from Indiana and Michigan
2. The squirrels extended their original range both farther southwest and northwest, but constricted their northernmost range
3. A telemetry study for habitat use determined home ranges (1.7 ha) and core ranges (0.4 ha)
4. Determined no conservation efforts are needed for this species

Post-Project Survey (if applicable): n/a

Project Period: 1/1/06 - 12/31/07

Principle Investigator(s): Thomas Nelson et al. (Eastern Illinois University)

Final Report:

T-21-P1