|
Pacific tree frogs were introduced at Port Clements in 1964 and by the
1980's had spread all over Graham and much of Moresby Islands.
Their
calls in the spring are now much a part of Islands' life but there is
concern that they may be displacing the native Northwestern toad.
In
2002, the red-legged frog (picture) was also identified on the Islands.
|
|
|
Muskrats
were released near Masset and in the Tlell area in the1920's.
Their
population exploded between 1936/37 and then abruptly dropped off.
Muskrats
are seldom seen now although studies indicate that their population may be
increasing again.
|
|
|
|
In 1929 and 30, 16
Rocky Mountain elk were released in Queen Charlotte City. They spread
out but are mostly established in the pontoons and muskegs of Graham
Island, althought there are also some on Moresby Island.
Their
population appears to be stable at 40 -100 animals. They haven't
increased substantially as they might have if the coastal Roosevelt elk had
been introduced.
|
|
|
|
Birds have been
introduced to Haida Gwaii as well. Their impacts haven't been studied
extensively and most, such as the house sparrow are considered low
impact.
European
starlings (picture) are of more concern. Their population has increased
dramatically since being introduced in the 1980's.
They
are in direct competition to native berry-eating birds as well as to
cavity nesting birds such as the saw-whet owl.
|
|
|
|
Feral animals are
domestic animals that have gone wild. There is quite a list of feral
animals on Haida Gwaii.
Pictured
here are some of the cattle from the feral herd at Cape Ball. Starting
with the earliest European settlers in Masset cattle have been escaping
or released periodically and gone wild.
Their
long term impacts include changes in plant species composition due to
browsing, trampling and intensive grazing, possibly dune blowouts and
the spread of weedy species.
|
|
|
|
Rabbits were let loose
many times by early settlers. They don't appear to thrive on Haida
Gwaii but in other places in the world, including many islands, they have been known to cause
serious problems.
Cats
and dogs have also gone wild. Their precise impacts haven't been
studied but impacts may be surmised by their nature as predators.
Pigs
and goats have also gotten free but they did not establish populations. Their
impacts in many other places of the world are of serious concern.
|
|
return to top of
page
|