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What Drives the Snowshoe Hare Cycle in Canada’s Yukon?

In: Wildlife 2001: Populations

Author

Listed:
  • Charles J. Krebs

    (University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology)

  • Rudy Boonstra

    (University of Toronto, Scarborough Campus, Division of Biology)

  • Stan Boutin

    (University of Alberta, Department of Zoology)

  • Mark Dale

    (University of Alberta, Department of Botany)

  • Susan Hannon

    (University of Alberta, Department of Zoology)

  • Kathy Martin

    (University of Toronto, Scarborough Campus, Division of Biology)

  • A. R. E. Sinclair

    (University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology)

  • J. N. M. Smith

    (University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology)

  • Roy Turkington

    (University of British Columbia, Department of Botany)

Abstract

Snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) and their predators fluctuate cyclically in abundance every 9–11 years in the southwestern Yukon. Peak populations occurred in 1980–1981 and in 1989–90 around Kluane Lake. During the first cycle (1977–84) we tested food limitation hypotheses by providing three hare populations with supplemental food (rabbit chow). Extra food did not prevent the cyclic decline, and neither the timing nor the rate of the decline from 1981-84 was affected by food addition, in comparison with controls. During the second cycle (1986-present) we have been testing the predator hypothesis, and are trying to find out if there is an interaction between predators and food. We have constructed two mammalian predator exclosures (1 km2) and on one of these areas we are adding food. We have fertilized two large areas with nitrogenphosphorus-potassium fertilizer to increase plant production, and we have added hare food to two unfenced areas as well. Within the next 4 years we should be able to evaluate the effects of these manipulations on the snowshoe hare cycle.

Suggested Citation

  • Charles J. Krebs & Rudy Boonstra & Stan Boutin & Mark Dale & Susan Hannon & Kathy Martin & A. R. E. Sinclair & J. N. M. Smith & Roy Turkington, 1992. "What Drives the Snowshoe Hare Cycle in Canada’s Yukon?," Springer Books, in: Dale R. McCullough & Reginald H. Barrett (ed.), Wildlife 2001: Populations, pages 886-896, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-94-011-2868-1_67
    DOI: 10.1007/978-94-011-2868-1_67
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