Cooperative Ecosystem Studes Unit, North and West Alaska CESU

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The United States Geological Survey is offering a funding opportunity to a CESU partner for research in performing molecular genetic analysis of New England cottontails sampled throughout the species range. Once widespread throughout the New England states and eastern New York, populations of New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis) have declined dramatically in recent decades due to habitat loss and fragmentation, and the species is currently under review as a candidate for federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. In response to the status of the species, several state, federal and non-governmental organizations have established measurable conservation goals that are in place via a Range-wide New England Cottontail Conservation Initiative. Obtaining genetic data to understand the extent of genetic diversity, characterize metapopulation connectivity and identify conservation units are germane to this initiative.

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