The Yukon's cavity users

Dr. Katie Aitken’s latest project is investigating an overlooked part of Yukon’s forests: the tree cavities that shelter everything from woodpeckers to squirrels.

Aitken, an associate professor for YukonU's Northern Environmental and Conservation Sciences Program, studies cavity users—birds, mammals, and other species that rely on naturally occurring crevasses or holes in trees for nesting and shelter. These spaces form naturally as trees age or are carved out by “primary excavators” such as woodpeckers.

In an attempt to better understand cavity users, Master’s student Shyloh van Delft and undergraduate assistant Cooper Fraser have been in the field mapping and monitoring these forest homes. Equipped with cameras and automated recording units, they’re tracking which species are using cavities, how often, and for what. Early results have surprised the team as they have discovered many more cavities than expected, but far fewer inhabitants.

The findings could help guide forest management—especially as climate change increases the need for wildfire fuel treatments. Dr. Aitken’s team is working with various organizations to find fire smarting methods that don’t compromise these animals’ important habitats. “Shyloh, my Master’s student, is looking specifically at forest fuel treatment in areas with a lot of cavity users” Aitken explains. “We might be able to make some recommendations.”

The project was made possible with a Scholarly Activity Grant from YukonU. “I wouldn’t have students without it,” says Aitken. “It’s a great opportunity for them to spend the whole summer learning about field work and wildlife ecology.”

It’s quiet work in quiet places—but the knowledge gained could shape how we protect Yukon’s cavity users for years to come.

Learn more about Dr. Aitken and her work here: https://scholar.yukonu.ca/kaitken/