Spatial analysis of environmental factors at found locations of orphaned mammals (Didelphis virginiana, Procyon lotor, Sciurus carolinensis, and Sylvilagus floridanus) in Champaign County, Illinois, USA

Abstract

Interactions between people and wildlife are increasing as development encroaches on natural habitats. Concurrently, young mammals suspected to be orphans are brought to wildlife rehabilitation centers. Four common orphaned mammals presented to rehabilitation facilities in North America are the Virginia opossum ( Didelphis virginiana , DIVI), common raccoon ( Procyon lotor , PRLO), eastern gray squirrel ( Sciurus carolinensis , SCCA), and eastern cottontail rabbit ( Sylvilagus floridanus , SYFL ) . This study examined the spatial relationship between the originating locations of orphans presented to the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic within Champaign County from 2015 to 2020 (99 Virginia opossums, 80 common raccoons, 441 eastern gray squirrels, and 602 eastern cottontails) and their environment. Environmental factors evaluated included land development, distance to water, and percentage of tree canopy. Spatial and multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that human-wildlife interactions frequently occurred near human developments and varied based on species-specific habitat preferences. Human-wildlife interactions tend to cluster around ecosystems that are selected by both parties. Our findings can inform outreach strategies aimed at reducing unnecessary wildlife admissions and improving resource allocation.

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