Paleo-archeological remains of the Vancouver Island marmot (Marmota vancouverensis), implications for an endangered species [Restes paléo-archéologiques de la marmotte de l'île de Vancouver (M. vancouverensis), implications pour une espèce en danger].

Résumé

Confined to a small area on south-eastern Vancouver Island with a population of 200-400, Marmota vancouverensisis the only endangered mammal endemic to Canada. Historical records suggest that this species was more widespread but any conservation strategy has been hindered by a lack of data and clear evidence of any threats. Recently discovered archaeological remains demonstrate that M. vancouverensis was exploited by aboriginal peoples. Marmot remains have now been found in one coastal midden and four remote, high elevation cave sites. The sites are all prehistoric (radiocarbon dates 700-2700 BP) and peripheral to extant colonies. Marmots were incidental in the coastal midden, but were the dominant species in high elevation sites with counts of individuals ranging from 13-80. A variety of age groups were represented from juveniles with milk teeth to old adults. Cut marks on bones are consistent with human butchering for meat or pelts. The impact of this hunting on marmot populations is not clear. However, climatic changes coupled with human hunting could account for the current distribution of M. vancouverensis.