Research techniques, habitat use, and ecology of northern flying squirrels, and research techniques and distribution of red squirrels in the Black Hills National Forest and northeastern South Dakota

This the first study conducted in northeast South Dakota and throughout the Black Hills on northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) and red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). In northeast South Dakota there are few recent sightings of either species, and in this study neither species was captured; however, red squirrels and middens were observed. Trapping was conducted throughout the Black Hills from May through August, 2005-2007 to determine research techniques and distribution of northern flying squirrels and red squirrels. Both species were captured throughout the Black Hills, their densities differed depending on habitat characteristics. Fifty-nine northern flying squirrels were radio-tracked to determine habitat use within the study area, home ranges, and den site selection. A resource selection function (RSF) habitat model was created for northern flying squirrels to predict habitat use throughout the Black Hills. Northern flying squirrels selected live aspen and birch trees, and snags for denning and pine habitat for foraging.