Raccoon Exterminator DeSoto Looking for a Raccoon Exterminator in DeSoto, TX? AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas provides professional raccoon control services using humane and effective wildlife management practices. In this video, you'll learn how our experienced team safely addresses raccoon problems in homes and businesses, removes nuisance animals, and helps…Raccoon Exterminator DeSoto Looking for a Raccoon Exterminator in DeSoto, TX? AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas provides professional raccoon control services using humane and effective wildlife management practices. In this video, you'll learn how our experienced team safely addresses raccoon problems in homes and businesses, removes nuisance animals, and helps protect your property from future wildlife intrusions with long-term prevention strategies. Raccoons frequently seek shelter in attics, crawl spaces, chimneys, garages, and other protected areas where they can build nests and raise their young. Once inside, they may tear insulation, damage ductwork, chew building materials, and leave behind droppings and urine that can create unpleasant odors and sanitation concerns. This video explains the common signs of raccoon activity, how these animals gain access to buildings, and why prompt professional service is essential to limit property damage. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas, we focus on resolving raccoon problems with comprehensive wildlife control solutions. Our process begins with a detailed property inspection to identify entry points and assess the extent of the infestation. We then implement safe removal methods, seal vulnerable access points, and provide wildlife exclusion services to discourage future activity. When needed, we also offer attic cleanup, sanitization, insulation replacement, odor removal, and damage repair to restore affected areas. Watch this video to learn more about Raccoon Exterminator in DeSoto, TX and discover how AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas helps homeowners and businesses solve raccoon problems with dependable, long-lasting solutions. If you're experiencing raccoon activity on your property, contact our team for expert assistance. Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and turn on notifications for more wildlife removal tips, prevention advice, and educational content. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2hfX7uiHHY On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal Of Dallas provides professional and humane raccoon removal services in DeSoto, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas 4925 Greenville Ave Ste 200 Dallas, TX 75206 469-423-9299 Website: https://dallas.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: dallas@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU5vEuK2NZCsb56Bv21OQYw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565888967944 Twitter: https://x.com/aacOfDallas SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Raccoon Removal DeSoto Welcome to the Raccoon Removal DeSoto, TX playlist from AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas. This collection of SoundCloud recordings is designed to help homeowners and business owners better understand raccoon behavior, the risks these animals can pose, and the professional solutions available to remove them safely and…Raccoon Removal DeSoto Welcome to the Raccoon Removal DeSoto, TX playlist from AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas. This collection of SoundCloud recordings is designed to help homeowners and business owners better understand raccoon behavior, the risks these animals can pose, and the professional solutions available to remove them safely and humanely. Whether you're dealing with noises in the attic, overturned trash cans, or signs of wildlife around your property, these audio tracks provide practical information from experienced wildlife removal specialists. Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable animals that often seek shelter in attics, crawl spaces, chimneys, garages, and other protected areas throughout DeSoto, TX. Once inside a structure, they can damage insulation, chew building materials, contaminate areas with droppings, and create unpleasant odors. This playlist explains how to recognize the early signs of a raccoon infestation and why addressing the problem quickly can help minimize property damage and reduce potential health concerns. Throughout this playlist, you'll learn about the humane raccoon removal methods used by AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas. Each recording covers important topics such as comprehensive property inspections, safe trapping techniques, identifying and sealing entry points, and exclusion strategies that help prevent raccoons from returning. The playlist also highlights the importance of cleaning and restoring affected areas after wildlife removal to create a safer and healthier environment. Whether you're searching for professional raccoon removal services or simply want to learn how to protect your property, this playlist offers valuable guidance for residents and businesses in DeSoto, TX. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas is committed to providing reliable wildlife control solutions with a focus on humane practices, customer satisfaction, and long-term prevention. Follow this playlist to stay informed and discover how expert raccoon removal services can help keep your property secure throughout the year. More on Sound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal/sets/aaac-wildlife-removal-desoto On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVoX8jsENQDw AAAC Wildlife Removal Of Dallas provides professional and humane raccoon removal services in DeSoto, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas 4925 Greenville Ave Ste 200 Dallas, TX 75206 469-423-9299 Website: https://dallas.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: dallas@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU5vEuK2NZCsb56Bv21OQYw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565888967944 Twitter: https://x.com/aacOfDallas SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Raccoon Removal Near Me DeSoto Searching for Raccoon Removal Near Me in DeSoto, TX? AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas provides professional raccoon removal services for homeowners and businesses dealing with nuisance wildlife. In this video, you'll learn how our experienced team safely and humanely removes raccoons from attics, crawl spaces,…Raccoon Removal Near Me DeSoto Searching for Raccoon Removal Near Me in DeSoto, TX? AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas provides professional raccoon removal services for homeowners and businesses dealing with nuisance wildlife. In this video, you'll learn how our experienced team safely and humanely removes raccoons from attics, crawl spaces, chimneys, garages, and other areas where they commonly seek shelter. Our goal is to resolve your wildlife problem while helping protect your property from future invasions. Raccoons are resourceful animals that can squeeze through damaged vents, loose soffits, roof gaps, and other small openings to access your home. Once inside, they may tear insulation, damage ductwork, chew building materials, and leave behind droppings and urine that can create unpleasant odors and sanitation concerns. This video explains the common signs of raccoon activity, why prompt removal is important, and how professional wildlife control can help prevent more extensive property damage. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas, we offer more than just raccoon removal. Our comprehensive services include detailed property inspections, humane removal methods, wildlife exclusion, entry point sealing, attic cleanup, sanitization, insulation replacement, odor removal, and damage repair. By addressing both the animals and the conditions that allowed them to enter, we provide long-term solutions that help reduce the risk of future raccoon infestations. Watch this video to learn more about Raccoon Removal Near Me in DeSoto, TX and see why property owners trust AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas for reliable wildlife control services. If you need expert raccoon removal or preventative wildlife solutions, our knowledgeable team is ready to help. Be sure to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and turn on notifications for more wildlife removal tips, prevention advice, and educational videos. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zYvwRr9kDk On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal Of Dallas provides professional and humane raccoon removal services in DeSoto, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas 4925 Greenville Ave Ste 200 Dallas, TX 75206 469-423-9299 Website: https://dallas.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: dallas@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU5vEuK2NZCsb56Bv21OQYw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565888967944 Twitter: https://x.com/aacOfDallas SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Raccoon Removal Baytown AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast is a reputable and reliable company offering top-notch Raccoon Removal services to customers in Baytown, Texas. With years of experience in the industry, they have established themselves as the go-to solution for all raccoon-related issues, providing swift and effective removal…Raccoon Removal Baytown AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast is a reputable and reliable company offering top-notch Raccoon Removal services to customers in Baytown, Texas. With years of experience in the industry, they have established themselves as the go-to solution for all raccoon-related issues, providing swift and effective removal services when it matters most. Raccoons can be a nuisance and a threat to both residential and commercial properties. They can cause damage to structures, contaminate food, and spread diseases. When faced with a raccoon infestation, time is of the essence, and AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast understands this better than anyone else. Their team of licensed and experienced technicians is available 24/7, ensuring that help is just a phone call away. What sets AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast apart from the competition is their humane and eco-friendly approach to raccoon removal. They understand the importance of protecting both the customer's property and the well-being of the raccoons. Their technicians are trained to safely and humanely remove raccoons using non-lethal methods, such as live trapping and relocation. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast also offers comprehensive and long-term solutions to prevent future raccoon infestations. They conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify potential entry points and provide recommendations on how to seal them off effectively. This proactive approach ensures that customers do not have to deal with recurring raccoon problems. The technicians at AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast are not only skilled in raccoon removal but also in handling other wildlife issues. They have the knowledge and expertise to handle a wide range of wildlife removal services, including bat removal, squirrel removal, bird control, and more. Moreover, AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast values transparency and customer satisfaction. They provide upfront and honest estimates, ensuring that customers are aware of the costs involved before any work begins. Their competitive pricing and commitment to quality service make them a trusted and preferred choice for raccoon removal in Baytown, Texas. In conclusion, AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast is a reliable and efficient solution for raccoon removal services in Baytown, Texas. Their humane approach, expertise in wildlife removal, and dedication to customer satisfaction make them the go-to choice for all raccoon-related issues. Customers can trust AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast to provide swift and effective solutions, ensuring a safe and raccoon-free environment. More on Sound Cloud: On YouTube: AAAC Wildlife Removal of Texas Gulf Coast provides professional and humane raccoon removal services in Baytown, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal 726 Gou Hole Rd Baytown, TX 77523 832-662-7677 Website: https://txgulfcoast.aaacwildliferemoval.com Email: txgulfcoast@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbOS5l-xSWQIho_arDIY52Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaacwildliferemovaltxgulfcoast/ Twitter: https://x.com/ric79352 SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaactxgulfcoast Blogger: https://aaactxgulfcoast.blogspot.com/ WordPress: https://aaactxgulfcoast.wordpress.com/ Tumblr: https://aaacwildliferemovaltexas.tumblr.com/
ArticleWildlife Damage Management Technical Series
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Bryan M. Kluever , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center, Gainesville, Florida Follow Lee A. Humberg , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Bryan M. Kluever , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services National Wildlife Research Center, Gainesville, Florida Follow Lee A. Humberg , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, West Lafayette, Indiana Follow Scott C. Barras , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, Moseley, Virginia Follow Date of this Version 2-2026 Document Type Article Citation Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series, February 2026 United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado Abstract Fact sheet about vultures including information about human--wildlife conflicts, the vulture roost, affects on livestock, structures, human health and safety, identification of damage, management methods, legal considerations, and economics. Also included is an overview of the species. DOWNLOADS Since February 27, 2026 COinS
Raccoon In Attic DeSoto Hearing heavy footsteps, scratching sounds, or strange noises above your ceiling? You may have a Raccoon in the Attic in DeSoto, TX. In this video, AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas explains how raccoons enter attics, the damage they can cause, and the safest way to remove…Raccoon In Attic DeSoto Hearing heavy footsteps, scratching sounds, or strange noises above your ceiling? You may have a Raccoon in the Attic in DeSoto, TX. In this video, AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas explains how raccoons enter attics, the damage they can cause, and the safest way to remove them. Our experienced wildlife professionals use humane removal techniques to protect both your property and the animals while providing solutions designed to prevent future infestations. Raccoons often gain access to attics through damaged roof vents, loose soffits, chimneys, or small gaps along the roofline. Once inside, they can tear apart insulation to build nests, damage ductwork, chew wood and other building materials, and leave behind droppings and urine that create unpleasant odors and sanitation concerns. Female raccoons may also choose attics as a safe place to raise their young, making professional removal especially important to ensure the entire family is handled properly and humanely. At AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas, we do more than remove raccoons from your attic. Our team performs a thorough inspection to locate every entry point and identify conditions that attracted the animals in the first place. We provide wildlife exclusion services, seal access points, and offer attic cleanup, sanitization, insulation replacement, odor removal, and minor damage repairs to help restore your attic and reduce the likelihood of another wildlife intrusion. Watch this video to learn more about dealing with a Raccoon in the Attic in DeSoto, TX and discover why homeowners trust AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas for reliable wildlife control services. If you suspect raccoons have moved into your attic, don't wait for the damage to become worse. Contact our team for professional assistance, and be sure to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and turn on notifications for more wildlife removal tips, prevention strategies, and educational content. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPuKpZdWSkA On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal Of Dallas provides professional and humane raccoon removal services in DeSoto, Texas. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal of Dallas 4925 Greenville Ave Ste 200 Dallas, TX 75206 469-423-9299 Website: https://dallas.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: dallas@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU5vEuK2NZCsb56Bv21OQYw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565888967944 Twitter: https://x.com/aacOfDallas SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Bats are the unsung heroes of our ecosystem, playing crucial roles that benefit us all. Hey there, nature lovers! Ever wondered why bats are so important? These little night-flyers might not get as much love as pandas or dolphins, but they’re just as crucial to our planet’s health. Picture this:…Bats are the unsung heroes of our ecosystem, playing crucial roles that benefit us all. Hey there, nature lovers! Ever wondered why bats are so important? These little night-flyers might not get as much love as pandas or dolphins, but they’re just as crucial to our planet’s health. Picture this: you’re enjoying a peaceful evening outdoors, free from the annoyance of buzzing mosquitoes. You can thank bats for that! These nocturnal superheroes are the unsung guardians of our ecosystems, and it’s high time we shed some light on their amazing contributions. Let’s dive into the world of bats and uncover why they truly matter, from pest control to pollination and beyond. Trust me, by the end of this article, you’ll see bats in a whole new light. Key Takeaways Bats contribute significantly to pest control and pollination. They play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Bats have a surprising economic impact on agriculture. Bats as Natural Pest Controllers Alright, let’s get into one of the coolest superpowers bats have – natural pest control. Imagine a world where farmers didn’t have to rely so heavily on chemical pesticides. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, bats are making that dream a reality. These nocturnal ninjas are voracious eaters, especially when it comes to insects. Every night, a single bat can gobble up thousands of insects, including those pesky mosquitoes that love to ruin our summer evenings. But their diet isn’t just about making our BBQs more enjoyable. Bats play a crucial role in agriculture by keeping crop-damaging insects in check. Think about it: fewer bugs munching on crops means less need for chemical pesticides, which is a win for both farmers and the environment. Consider this – in the U.S. alone, bats save the agriculture industry an estimated $3.7 billion a year in pest control services. That’s a lot of cash saved just by letting bats do what they do best. And it’s not just about the money. Reducing pesticide use means healthier ecosystems, cleaner water, and safer food for us all. So, next time you see a bat zipping around at dusk, remember – it’s on a mission to keep our world a little bit greener and our lives a lot less buggy. These tiny pest controllers are a huge asset, silently working behind the scenes to maintain a balanced ecosystem and protect our crops. Who knew such small creatures could have such a big impact? Pollinators and Seed Dispersers Now, let’s talk about another superhero skill that bats possess – their role as pollinators and seed dispersers. You might be thinking, “Wait, bats do more than just eat bugs?” Absolutely! These night-time dynamos are also key players in keeping our ecosystems vibrant and diverse. First off, let’s chat about pollination. You might already know that bees and butterflies are great pollinators, but did you know that bats are too? Many bat species, especially in tropical and desert regions, are essential pollinators for a variety of plants. This includes some plants that produce fruits we love, like bananas, mangoes, and even the agave plant – yes, the one that gives us tequila. Imagine a world without these delicious fruits and, dare I say, tequila! It’s the bats who help keep these plants thriving by transferring pollen as they feed on nectar. But wait, there’s more. Bats also play a crucial role in seed dispersal. Many plants rely on bats to spread their seeds far and wide, promoting forest regeneration and biodiversity. When bats eat fruits, they fly off and later excrete the seeds in different locations, often far from the parent plant. This helps in the growth of new plants and maintains healthy, diverse ecosystems. Forests, especially rainforests, owe a lot to these flying gardeners who help plants colonize new areas and maintain genetic diversity. Imagine bats as the unsung gardeners of the night, working tirelessly to ensure our forests and gardens flourish. Without them, many plant species would struggle to survive, leading to less diverse and resilient ecosystems. Economic Benefits of Bats Alright, folks, let’s dive into the dollars and cents of why bats matter – the economic benefits. You might not think of these little creatures as financial powerhouses, but their contributions to the economy are nothing short of impressive. First up, pest control. As we mentioned earlier, bats are voracious insect eaters. By keeping pest populations in check, they provide a natural service that saves the agriculture industry billions of dollars each year. Fewer pests mean healthier crops and less reliance on expensive chemical pesticides. In the U.S. alone, bats save farmers an estimated $3.7 billion annually. That’s money that can be reinvested into sustainable farming practices, research, and even lower prices for consumers. It’s a win-win situation all around. Now, let’s talk about healthcare. Reducing the use of chemical pesticides, thanks to bats’ natural pest control, means fewer chemicals in our environment. This translates to cleaner water, healthier soil, and, ultimately, better health for humans and wildlife alike. Fewer chemicals in our food and water supply can reduce the risk of pesticide-related health issues, which can save on healthcare costs and improve overall well-being. Bats also boost local economies through tourism. Yep, you heard that right – bat tourism is a thing! Many regions around the world have turned their bat populations into tourist attractions. For example, the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas, is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Every evening, thousands of tourists gather to watch the bats emerge at dusk, bringing significant revenue to the local economy through tourism-related spending on hotels, restaurants, and activities. This kind of eco-tourism not only educates people about the importance of bats but also supports local businesses. And let’s not forget about the indirect economic benefits. Bats play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal, as we discussed earlier. Healthy ecosystems with diverse plant and animal life contribute to the overall stability of our environment, which in turn supports agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. These industries rely on robust ecosystems to thrive, and bats are an integral part of that equation. Fascinating Bat Facts Ready to have your mind blown? Bats are not just essential for our ecosystems and economy; they’re also downright fascinating. Here are some cool bat facts that will make you appreciate these nocturnal marvels even more. Incredible Diversity There are over 1,400 species of bats, making them the second most diverse group of mammals after rodents. They range in size from the tiny bumblebee bat, which weighs less than a penny, to the giant flying fox, with a wingspan of up to six feet. This incredible diversity means that bats have adapted to a wide range of habitats and diets, showcasing nature’s creativity at its finest. Masters of Flight Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight. Unlike birds, bats have flexible wings with a thin membrane of skin stretched over elongated fingers. This unique wing structure allows for remarkable agility and maneuverability in the air, enabling them to catch insects on the fly and navigate through the darkest of nights with ease. Long Lifespan Despite their small size, bats can live surprisingly long lives. Some species of bats can live up to 30 years or more, which is quite impressive when you consider that most small mammals have much shorter lifespans. This longevity allows bats to play a consistent role in their ecosystems over many years. Echolocation Experts Many bats use echolocation to navigate and hunt in the dark. By emitting high-frequency sounds and listening for the echoes that bounce back from objects, bats can create a mental map of their surroundings. This remarkable ability allows them to detect even the smallest insects in complete darkness, making them highly efficient hunters. Social Creatures Bats are incredibly social animals. They often live in large colonies, sometimes numbering in the millions. These colonies can be found in caves, trees, buildings, and even bridges. Living in groups provides bats with safety in numbers and enhances their ability to locate food and mates. Important Pollinators As we’ve discussed, many bats are crucial pollinators. Without them, we’d have a hard time enjoying some of our favorite fruits and plants. In fact, some plants have evolved to bloom at night specifically to attract bat pollinators. These plants often have strong scents and large, pale flowers, making them easy for bats to find in the dark. Disease Fighters Bats play a role in controlling the spread of diseases. By consuming large quantities of insects, they help reduce the population of disease-carrying pests such as mosquitoes. This natural pest control helps lower the risk of diseases like malaria and West Nile virus, protecting both humans and animals. The Plight of Bats As much as we’ve celebrated the incredible awesomeness of bats, it’s time to talk about the challenges they face. Despite their many benefits and fascinating traits, bats are in trouble. Let’s delve into the major threats that are putting these vital creatures at risk. Habitat Loss One of the biggest threats to bats is habitat destruction. Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion are wiping out the natural habitats that bats depend on. Trees, caves, and other roosting sites are being destroyed, leaving bats with fewer places to live and breed. This loss of habitat not only reduces bat populations but also disrupts the ecosystems they help maintain. Disease Bats are susceptible to diseases, just like any other animal. One of the most devastating diseases affecting bats is White-Nose Syndrome (WNS), a fungal infection that has killed millions of bats in North America since it was first discovered in 2006. WNS causes bats to wake from hibernation frequently, depleting their
The Aust Group announced the acquisition of its client, Tri-County Pest Control, Inc. (“Tri-County”), by Lewis Pest Control. Jim Chapman, owner of Tri-County Pest Control, Inc., said in a news release, “After a friend of mine sold their business using The Aust Group and highly recommended their services, I began…The Aust Group announced the acquisition of its client, Tri-County Pest Control, Inc. (“Tri-County”), by Lewis Pest Control. Jim Chapman, owner of Tri-County Pest Control, Inc., said in a news release, “After a friend of mine sold their business using The Aust Group and highly recommended their services, I began to have several private discussions with my family about […] The post Tri-County Pest Control acquired by Lewis Pest Control first appeared on Pest Management Professional.
Researchers have ‘defanged’ a myth about the power of serpent bites The post Baby rattlesnakes don’t pack more venom than adults appeared first on The Wildlife Society.
Alpine WSG Water Soluble Granule Insecticide is a non-pyrethroid, nonrepellent solution that lets you go almost anywhere pests go. The post BASF: Alpine WSG Insecticide first appeared on Pest Management Professional.
Unpaved roads in northern Florida may provide ecological corridors for scrub lizards in areas where timber harvest has interrupted the forest regrowth cycle. “[The unpaved roads] are going to allow these lizards to persist in these mature stands managed for wood pulp,” said David Tevs, a PhD student at the…Unpaved roads in northern Florida may provide ecological corridors for scrub lizards in areas where timber harvest has interrupted the forest regrowth cycle. “[The unpaved roads] are going to allow these lizards to persist in these mature stands managed for wood pulp,” said David Tevs, a PhD student at the University of Montana. Tevs and his colleagues conducted a study published recently in Ecological Research , revealing that some ways humans change the environment can make up for the problems they cause. Road work Tevs and his colleagues started off conducting work on lizard physiology in Ocala National Forest in northern Florida. They were running surveys along unpaved roads that cut through the forest, much of which is managed for wood pulp timber harvest, to answer questions about variations in diet and rates of parasite infection. These roads were a combination of old logging roads, forest management access roads and roads for recreational ATVs or dune buggies. They saw way more lizards along these sandy roads than they did deeper in the forest. Since they kept careful field notes, they realized they could also use the data to conduct a study on the relative abundance of lizards in different types of ecosystems in Ocala, including on these roads. Scrub lizards are currently under consideration for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Credit: David Tevs The team examined the data for the presence of three lizard species: Florida scrub lizards ( Sceloporus woodi ), green anoles ( Anolis carolensis ) and six-lined racerunners ( Aspidoscelis sexlineatus ). Florida scrub lizards are currently under review for potential listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), partly because the scrub ecosystem that they prefer has also been declining in Florida due to development and habitat change. The team confirmed what they had anecdotally seen during surveys. More scrub lizards occurred on the roads than deeper into the forest. “These roads seem really critical, particularly for the Florida scrub lizards,” Tevs said. Tevs said their occurrence on the roads, which vehicles rarely use, is likely because sunny patches and smaller plants on the roadside allow the lizards to regulate their temperatures. They can also hide quickly in the sandy soil in these areas from predators. All of this helps them to move between warmer and cooler microclimates as they need. Scrub lizards are currently under consideration for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Credit: David Tevs In a way, the unpaved roads provide habitat like early successional forests—the kind that grow back within the first five to seven years after wildfires. But since timber harvesters mostly let trees reach maturity before harvesting them for pulp, the region doesn’t see the kind of ecological recycling that burns would provide. Tevs said that the roads also likely provide habitat connectivity between suitable areas. However, he cautioned that the unpaved roads may have negative effects on other aspects of ecology in these forests. Some research shows that they help nonnative grasses spread, for example, and researchers speculate that nonnative brown anoles ( Anolis sagrei ) may use them to disperse. But these roads may also help other species like gopher frogs ( Lithobates capito ), another species currently under review for listing under the ESA, disperse during breeding season. Article by Joshua Rapp Learn
