Home Range of Crevice Spiny Lizards (Sceloporus poinsettii) at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Mason County, Texas

Date

2002-05

Authors

Ridenour, Karen C.

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Abstract

Daily movements, home range size, and habitat use patterns were quantified for crevice spiny lizards (Sceloporus poinsettii) at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Mason County, Texas. Habitat parameters also were assessed to determine influence on habitat use during the non-breeding season. Fluorescent powder tracking technique was used to determine the daily movement patterns and home range. Ten male and ten female lizards were captured three times each to determine an average daily movement and home range size. Average daily movements for immature males were 73.4 m and mature males were 52.0 m. Average daily movements for immature females were 54.2 m and mature females were 63.1 m. Average home range size was determined to be 590.0 m2 for females and 660.0 m2 for males. Home ranges overlapped extensively, but crevice spiny lizards were not found to aggressively defend them. Community groups consisted of multiple immature and dominant mature lizards. Behavioral observations were conducted throughout the research period. Data suggested that vertical granite rock surfaces were primary use areas, while the horizontal plane was used to move between vertical surfaces. It is recommended that studies of home range size and daily movements be repeated in future years during breeding season to ascertain trends in movement patterns and multiple usage of home range areas.

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Keywords

sceloporus, crevice spiny lizards, wildlife management, Mason County, Texas

Citation

Ridenour, K. C. (2002). Home range of crevice spiny lizards (Sceloporus poinsettii) at Mason Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Mason County, Texas (Unpublished thesis). Southwest Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.

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