Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Natural Sciences

First Advisor

Saarinen, Emily

Area of Concentration

Environmental Science

Abstract

Conserving biodiversity presents challenges in today’s highly modified and fragmented environment. In this study, I analyzed six imperiled western U.S. species, three avian species; California condor (Gymnogyps californianus), Columbian sharp-tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus columbianus), and Western bluebird (Sialia Mexicana) and three butterfly species; Palos Verdes blue butterfly (Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis), Taylor’s Checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha taylori), and Oregon Silverspot butterfly (Speyeria zerene hippolyta). I compiled recovery methods, biology and threats pertaining to each species’ translocation program. Within recovery plans, habitat restoration and captive breeding work to support wild population persistence in future years. Translocation is a management technique that encompasses reintroduction, augmentation and assisted colonization (climate change). Translocations are an important conservation tool as major range shifts are expected among biota in future years given climate change. I also calculated species vulnerability using NatureServe’s Climate Change Vulnerability Index to evaluate specific climate change threats. Together, these analyses explained primary threat sources connected to land use choices and demonstrated index scores of varying levels of increased vulnerability due to anticipated climate change impacts in future decades.

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