In 1999 and 2005, the newly restored Yellowstone wolf population experienced significantly reduced pup recruitment suggestive of a disease outbreak. This exploratory research will use new molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to assess viral content of scats as an indicator of temporal and spatial distribution of these pathogens. In addressing these issues, we hope to provide information on how disease may affect the YNP wolf population and the long-term wolf management goals of the Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho wolf recovery area MORE 
No information exists on the status of the Glacier National Parks (GNP) black bear (Ursus americanus) population. Black bears were sampled in 2004 using noninvasive hair collection methods as part of a 7.8 million-acre study of the regional grizzly bear (U. arctos) population. Data from individual bears will be used in mark-recapture models to estimate black bear population size and to describe density patterns in GNP. Because the cost of all fieldwork and 50% o the genetic analysis has been covered by the grizzly bear project, a comprehensive snapshot of the GNP black bear population will be obtained for 12% o a stand-alone study. MORE 
U.S. Department of the Interior |
U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.fort.usgs.gov/brdscience/pobs1.aspx?topic=Genetics
Page Contact Information: Paul_Geissler@usgs.gov
