Swift Fox Symposium

Patterns of Range Collapse in Swift Fox and Other Canids

Rob Channell and Mark V. Lomolino, Department of Zoology and Oklahoma Biological Survey, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019.

We analyze spatial patterns in contraction of geographic ranges of swift fox (Vulpes velox) and other species of rare canids and carnivores. Specifically, we test whether ranges tend to collapse toward the range center or periphery and, if peripheral, whether remaining populations tend to be clustered along a particular edge (i.e., north, south east or west). We then compare the patterns for swift fox, other canids, and other carnivores from North America and other continents as well to explore the biotic and geographic features influencing range collapse in endangered species. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of our findings for conserving rare and endangered canids.

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