Focal species in tundra systems: gyrfalcon, willow ptarmigan

Long-term databases track changes in the population parameters of the top predator (gyrfalcon) and the keystone prey (willow ptarmigan).
Three study areas spaced north to south across the Yukon are surveyed annually. Breeding density and productivity are key variables along with breeding chronology. Ground search in late winter is used to survey ptarmigan, while air survey to known nest sites tracks gyrfalcon numbers. 

Ongoing reports and publications cover significant details and trends. Currently evidence points to a disruption to normal population cycling, and suggests a declining overall trophic response in the system.

This project is a part of the Biodiversity Monitoring Program with the YukonU Research Centre.

Project Team

Project Lead: Dave Mossop, Professor Emeritus, Yukon University
Research Support: Yukon University students

Partners
  • Department of Environment, Government of Yukon
  • Ministry of Environment, Government of British Columbia
Funders

Parks & Conservation AND Fish and Wildlife Branch, Department of Environment, Government of Yukon

International Polar Year

Private funders

As well as annual proposals made to various sources.