Using ArcGIS to Examine the Potential Habitat Characteristics of Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius) at Lilley Cornett Woods

Author

Wyatt A. Taylor, Eastern Kentucky UniversityFollow

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Creation Date

Spring 2017

Major

Geography

Department

Geosciences

Degree

Undergraduate

Mentor

Kelly Watson

Mentor Department

Geosciences

Abstract

Examining the habitat characteristics of Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putoris) using ArcGIS

This project uses ArcGIS to identify potential habitat of the Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putoris) in Kentucky. Since the 1940s, the populations of these skunks have declined by 90 percent in their range across the Eastern United States. As a result, recent studies are attempting to better understand the habitat characteristics of this rare and reclusive species. I used ArcMap to build a geodatabase of potential Eastern Spotted Skunk habitat, as these skunks are known to live in isolated, forested areas with dense undergrowth and often at higher elevations. The results of this project will be used in future research using field cameras to confirm the presence of the skunks and to better understand the habitat characteristics most favorable for spotted skunks in Kentucky.