Wildlife Use of Riparian Vegetation Buffer Zones in High Voltage Powerline Rights-of-Way in the Quebec Boreal Forest

摘要

TransEnergie operates a network of 33,000 km of high voltage powerlines. Approximately 6000 riparian vegetation buffer zones are located in these rights-of-way (ROWs), mostly to protect stream habitat. A field study was conducted in 1998 and 1999 to compare spring and summer wildlife activity in riparian vegetation buffers in rights-of-way to that in riparian habitat in adjacent forest. Vegetation structure in buffers consisted of a low stratum with a high herbaceous cover and high stem density of small DBH. Riparian vegetation in adjacent forest was characterized by higher vegetation, and a lower stem density with a higher mean DBH. A total of 49 buffer zones were sampled for vegetation, mammals, and anurans. We captured 1436 individuals from 11 species of small mammals during 10,080 trap-nights over two years. Results show a similar abundance of small mammals in buffers and adjacent forest but there were differences in species composition and species diversity. Pigmy shrew and rock vole, two uncommon species in this region, were captured in both habitats. The presence of black bear, snowshoe hare, ruffed grouse, and porcupine was detected inside vegetation buffers. Anuran and bird vocal activity was similar in buffers and adjacent forest.