Mammal and Wildlife Ecology Laboratory Overview
Wildlife plays a significant role in maintaining ecosystem health, ecosystems services and plant community stability and succession. NRRI’s mammal and wildlife ecology research program is an applied research program that has been studying the direct impacts of environmental change on wildlife, biodiversity, and ecosystem function for almost 20 years. Our research gathers critical data on threatened, endangered and rare species as well as game and non-game species of ecological and economic significance in Minnesota and throughout the western Great Lakes region. We seek to understand species behavior and ecology, how changes in habitat affect wildlife populations and the development of management strategies and how changes in wildlife populations can inform us about changes in the quality and quantity of habitat.
Laboratory Goal
The goal of the Mammal and Wildlife Ecology Laboratory is to advance knowledge about the biology and management of mammals in Minnesota. Environmentally sound economic development requires that we understand and predict the impact of resource management decisions on wildlife species.
Laboratory Objectives
The objectives of the Mammal and Wildlife Ecology Laboratory are to (1) provide knowledge and information to government agencies, the private sector, and individuals that will enable environmentally sound economic development and (2) identify and obtain funding for current resource management problems as identified by our clients and partners.
Research Projects
The Minnesota Fisher Den Box Project is focused on evaluating an emerging habitat management tool to address the declining MN fisher population.
A website of the state's carnivore species -- from the tiny least weasel to the black bear.
Media Coverage
- – Minnesota drivers may hit 20 times the deer reported to state – Duluth News Tribune