Pennsylvania Fisher Reintroduction Project PENNSYLVANIA GAME COMMISSION BUREAU OF WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT RESEARCH DIVISION PROJECT ANNUAL JOB REPORT

PROJECT CODE NO: 06680

TITLE: Fisher Research/Management

JOB CODE NO: 68001

TITLE: Pennsylvania Fisher Reintroduction Project

PERIOD COVERED: July 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000

COOPERATING AGENCIES: The Pennsylvania State University

WORK LOCATION(S): Northern Pennsylvania

PREPARED BY: Thomas S. Hardisky

DATE: July 11, 2000

Abstract: Since December 1994, 189 fishers have been released at five distinct sites in northern Pennsylvania to restore extirpated populations. No additional releases are planned. Based on radio- tracking results, most released fishers have survived and remain in general release areas. We plan to conduct long-term surveys to monitor reintroduced populations. Final analysis of telemetry data and preparation of the final report is ongoing.

OBJECTIVE

Restore extirpated fisher populations in northern Pennsylvania.

PROCEDURES

Since December 1994, 189 fishers have been released among five sites in Pennsylvania (Table 1). Release sites included Sproul State Forest near Renovo, Quehanna Wild Area, Tioga and Tiadaghton State Forests in the Pine Creek Valley, state game lands in Sullivan and Wyoming counties, and the Allegheny National Forest (ANF). The ANF was the most recent and final fisher reintroduction site.

We developed and continue to refine methods to detect fishers near reintroduction areas. These survey

file:///C|/Game/pgc/reports/wildlife_rep/99wmar/68001-99.htm (1 of 2) [10/29/2003 11:03:44 AM] Pennsylvania Fisher Reintroduction Project methods will be useful for future monitoring of population trends and range expansion. The survey methods include snow tracking, track-plate stations, and photographic stations. We continue to collect reports of fisher sightings throughout Pennsylvania.

FINDINGS

Dr. Thomas Serfass of Frostburg State University is currently compiling all fisher reintroduction and monitoring information for Pennsylvania. This compilation of research results will constitute the final report for this project. Completion of this final report is expected by December 2000.

RECOMMENDATIONS

We should complete an evaluation of this project and prepare a final report by June 30, 2001. Fisher survival, dispersal, home range size, and habitat use should be determined from radiotelemetry results. Although not a goal of this study, we should develop protocols for formal, long-term fisher surveys to monitor the status of reintroduced populations.

file:///C|/Game/pgc/reports/wildlife_rep/99wmar/68001-99.htm (2 of 2) [10/29/2003 11:03:44 AM]