Facing multiple threats: A new look at at-risk wildlife
Many at-risk wildlife species face multiple, interacting stressors such as fire, disturbance, and invasive species. While often studied separately, less is known about their combined effects on vulnerable populations. CEG and University of Washington researchers are investigating how these stressors impact five key species around two US military bases: the Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo (Texas), and Mazama pocket gopher, Streaked Horned Lark, and Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly (Pacific Northwest).
Effective management requires understanding how stressors interact—sometimes in unpredictable ways—and how already-stressed populations respond to new challenges and opportunities. To address this, we are using scenario-based models to simulate various combinations of stressors and management actions to evaluate potential outcomes. This applied research aims to clarify how interacting stressors influence at-risk species, and how managers can plan effective and situation-specific management decisions.