Predicted Spatial Distribution of the Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius) in Virginia Using Detection and Non-Detection Records

The geographic distribution of a species is fundamental component in understanding its ecology and necessary for forming effective conservation plans. For rare elusive concern, accurate maps predicted occurrence are particularly problematic often highly subjective. Spilogale putorius (Eastern Spotted Skunk) populations have experienced large declines since the 1940s. Their behavior perceived rarity result low detection probability when using conventional methods sampling small mammals. Low causes uncertainty as to where Eastern Skunks could be management concern. We modeled verifiable non-detection records obtained throughout Virginia from 2010 2020. Occurrence data consisted trapping reported Department Wildlife Resources, incidental photo-verified reports sightings road-killed animals, remote-camera detections. Non-detections were presumed at baited locations following intense survey efforts. fit models generalized linear modeling an information-theoretic framework package ‘stats’ Program R. Our results incidated greater presence Blue Ridge westward, increasing with slope steepness along northeastern- southeastern-facing slopes decreasing southeastern- southwestern-facing slopes. Emergent rock outcrops prominent northeastern offer ample protective rocky cover, whereas mixed Quercus spp. (oak), Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel), Rhododendron maximum (Rosebay Rhododendron) forest communities southern-facing provide suitable areas both which critical spotted skunk survival reproductive success. analysis provides insight into relationships between landscape features Skunk distributions across Virginia. Understanding these this vulnerable species.