Mammals

In 1994, as part of sitewide biological surveys, observations of mammals or evidence of their presence were made seasonally along transects and during timed or time-constrained searches into selected habitats. Incidental observations of mammals were also recorded while moving from site to site, walking to and from sites, and while cruising roads. A total of 14 mammal species were identified during observations. The white-tailed deer was the most common mammal observed by sight, as was expected given their high numbers. They are found in all natural habitats as well as in developed areas. They rely heavily on the annual crop of acorns produced by the various oak species on site. White-tailed deer are less common in the pine plantation areas than in the pitch pine/oak forest and wetland sites. No deer hunting (gun or bow) is allowed on the BNL property, however, beginning in 2015 the Lab began conducting deer management. Hunting is allowed in cooperative hunting areas adjacent the site to the east.

Other species commonly observed on site but in low numbers were raccoon, muskrat, cottontail rabbits, gray squirrel, eastern chipmunk and red fox. White-footed mouse and other small mammal signs were observed throughout the site in various habitats except grasslands and mowed areas. Individual meadow voles or indications of their presence were observed in fields and emergent wetland areas where they are common. Other species including groundhog, pine vole, and meadow jumping mouse were also observed on site.

Except for white-tailed deer, most mammals, including eastern cottontail, woodchuck, gray squirrel, and eastern chipmunk, were less common than expected on the Brookhaven Labsite. Certain species such as mink and weasel exist on site, but probably in very low numbers. Opossum and striped skunk were not seen during surveys but have been observed by staff.

Bat surveys conducted through acoustic surveys and mist netting have confirmed the presence of big brown bat, eastern red bat, hoary bat, silver-haired bat and the federally endangered northern long-eared bat. The little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) was likely here historically, but as with many other species, their numbers have been decimated by white-nose syndrome (Pseudogymnoascus destructans). Tri-colored bat has been found in areas adjacent to the Lab by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, thus they are likely to use the site, however, their presence on site has not been confirmed.