Distribution of the eastern pipistrelle (Perimyotis subflavus) in southwest Nova Scotia relative to landscape factors

Abstract

The eastern pipistrelle ( Perimyotis subflavus ) in Nova Scotia has a restricted range, exhibits distinct behavioral characteristics, and is likely isolated from conspecific populations. In the region they require clumps of Usnea lichen for roosting, which is typically found in mature spruce and balsam fir trees. This association may make this population vulnerable to forest alteration. The goal of this research was to increase local knowledge of eastern pipistrelle ecology in Nova Scotia, contributing towards their conservation. Specifically, I acoustically monitored the activity of eastern pipistrelles at 90 river sites (40 in 2005 and 50 in 2006) throughout southwest Nova Scotia using Anabat II detectors to determine the regional distribution of the population and quantify the effects of landscape composition on species activity while controlling for night and site effects. The results of echolocation monitoring indicate that the eastern pipistrelle occurs within a minimum area of 10 020 km 2 mostly in the interior of southwest Nova Scotia. The best landscape predictor of the magnitude of eastern pipistrelle activity was non-forested land area within commuting distance of river sites, suggesting that eastern pipistrelles are less active in landscapes where forests are cleared for agriculture, settlements and timber production. Therefore this forest associated species may be negatively impacted by intensive forestry practices in the region, which can eliminate potential roosting habitat for bats.