Abstract
The intentional introduction of exotic animals can generally be expected to yield unanticipated biological consequences. Single-purpose introductions frequently result in ecological catastrophe. Islands are particularly vulnerable to such assault. Arctic foxes [Alopex lagopus), released for fur farming on the Aleutian Islands, formerly devoid of land predators, have significantly altered nesting avifaunal diversity, abundance, and productivity. A program for restoring the historical distribution and abundance of critically affected bird species is described. In a long-term study, biological control methods are proposed to test the hypothesis that introduced sterile red foxes [Vulpes fulva), apparently, a competitively superior species, will markedly reduce or extirpate resident Arctic foxes.
Recommended Citation
West, Edward W. and Rudd, Robert L.
(1983)
"Biological Control of Aleutian Island Arctic Fox: A Preliminary Strategy,"
International Journal for the Study of Animal Problems: Vol. 4:
No.
4, Article 14.
Available at:
https://www.wellbeingintlstudiesrepository.org/ijsap/vol4/iss4/14