While Yosemite's physical setting is breathtaking, its wildlife is also wondrous and more vulnerable. Several endangered species, including great grey owls, bighorn sheep, peregrine falcons and several kinds of amphibians dwell in the Park. While bears have been unnaturally domesticated, feasting on human food which has compromised their long term health, other animals have been displaced or have perished due to other environmental conditions that disrupt mating, feeding, and nesting behavior. Wildlife management projects seek to protect Yosemite's animal populations through carefully assessing environmental conditions that affect animals and implementing programs to aid their long-term survival and health.
Current Projects
FUNDING NEEDED: $407,508
Pacific Fisher Mammal Research
The Pacific fisher, a medium-sized forest mammal associated with mature and old growth forests, has disappeared from more than half its former range in California and is in danger of becoming extinct in the state. This project will collect data necessary to determine the abundance, distribution, and possible population limiting factors that have led to the continuing scarcity of Pacific fishers, a relative of the mink and otter. Once the reasons for Pacific fisher scarcity in the Park are understood, proactive steps can be taken to help with restoration of the animal to the Park and thereby allow natural processes to prevail.
Yosemite Toad Status & Trends
The Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus), once common in the Sierra Nevada, has disappeared from more than 50% of the sites where it occurred historically. Currently a Federal candidate species for listing under the Endangered Species Act, the Yosemite toad may be a harbinger for the future for other species. Scientists will identify the toad’s complete range and the condition of its habitats within the Park and determine the current distribution and population status of this species. Study results will also aid Park staff in determining what management actions are needed to protect and restore this species within its historic range.
Completed Projects
Reestablishment of bighorn sheep and peregrine falcons. Construction and installation of over 2,000 bear-proof food storage lockers to curtail incidents between humans and black bears and to keep bears from becoming habituated to human food.