A preliminary distributional list of the mammals of Virginia

Abstract

The objective of this study has been to list the mammals of Virginia and determine their intra-state distribution in so far as possible in the time allotted. Four procedures have been followed in conducting the study, namely, examination of available literature, collecting study material, examination of museum specimens and field observations.

At the present time much effort is being exerted by research workers to establish a system of management for game animals which will aid in restoring these species to depleted areas in the State. The information on occurrence and distribution brought together by this study should be of aid to the game manager in working out more efficient practices, as all species of a fauna are interdependent. Not only will this knowledge be of considerable aid to the game manager in solving problems relative to valuable species and predatory species in a particular area, but it will also be of interest to the general public in that some forms affect agriculture practices. The mammiferous fauna of Virginia bear an important relation to mammals of other parts of the eastern United States, since several species occurring here are intermediate between northern and southern forms.