Predators 



The research on predation, particularly where timber wolves and coyotes are 

 most concerned, was directed toward assessing the effects of predators on big game 

 and livestock and developing efficient control methods. 



Because of staff changes some parts of the program were delayed. Those 

 projects dealing with control methods were continued on schedule and most have 

 now reached the stage where they can be applied. An experimental poison- 

 ing program in Sioux Lookout and Port Arthur Forests Districts removed 75 

 animals from a study area of 10,000 square miles over a period of three winters. 

 Aerial surveys during the current year showed that wolves were almost eliminated 

 from the area. Application of this method to management of predators in areas 

 remote from human habitation is now possible but as yet no way has been found 

 to eliminate accidental killing of fur bearers and birds. Its use in Ontario will be 

 closely controlled. 



Continued aerial surveys as part of the research on wolf populations in 

 Algonquin Park have shown no significant increase in numbers even though there 

 has been no control of wolves in the area since 1958. Reporting on this project 

 is now underway. 



Wildlife Diseases and Parasites 



Of the numerous diseases and parasites which are known to affect various 

 species of wildlife in Ontario, few are spectacular in their effects. Most, however, 

 undoubtedly affect the efficiency of their host; some are responsible for widespread 

 mortality. Continued research to establish the presence and incidence of diseases 

 and parasites has provided the background for intensive studies of those which are 

 thought to be of special importance to the maintenance of harvestable densities of 

 wildlife. Two of the most important studies are those on rabies and kidney worm 

 in mink. 



RABIES 



This disease, which has received a great deal of public attention in recent 

 years, is the subject of an intensive research project. The disease, which affects red 

 foxes and skunks primarily among wildlife species in Ontario, has been most 

 prevalent in southern Ontario during the past three years. Here the disease is also 

 being transmitted to livestock, and there is a continuing danger of human contact 

 v\'ith rabid animals. Research is primarily directed toward ascertaining the relation 

 between the disease and the density of fox populations; current studies of changes 

 in fox populations, movements and distribution in King Township in the Lake 

 Simcoe Forest District, have shown a low level of fox numbers and a relatively 

 low but persistent incidence of the disease. 



KIDNEY WORM 



Further research on the incidence and effects of the kidney worm in wild mink 

 has shown an increase in affected animals in the Parry Sound Forest District where 

 the study is centred. The disease is affecting about 42% of the mink this year as 

 compared to 30% in the previous year. There have been no clear-cut effects on 

 the size of the population or pelt quality of mink and the study is continuing. 



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