Introduction of foxes to Alaskan islands - history, effects on avifauna, and eradication

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1993
Authors:Bailey, EP
Journal:Resource Publication - US Fish & Wildlife Service
Volume:193
Date Published:1993
Keywords:Rattus norvegicus, Vulpes vulpes
Abstract:

The first recorded introduction of foxes was in 1750 when Russians released Arctic foxes Alopex lagopus from the Commander Islands on Attu, the westernmost island in the Aleutians. Russians released red Vulpes vulpes and Arctic foxes on other islands mainly in the early 1800's. By the 1930's, >450 islands had been stocked mainly with Arctic foxes for fur farming. Besides foxes, Norway rats Rattus norvegicus, ground squirrels Spermophilus undulatus and other mammals were introduced. Foxes eliminated populations of Aleutian Canada geese Branta canadensis leucopareia on all except three small islands. Populations of seabirds, particularly burrow-nesters, were also drastically reduced by foxes. Personnel from the Aleutian Islands National Wildlife Refuge began eliminating foxes in 1949, and spectacular recoveries of bird populations have been recorded. Introduced foxes remain on 46 islands, mostly in the Aleutians and off the Alaska Peninsula.

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