| Abstract: | From 1984 through 1985 a study was made of the influence of a retained mine highwall on a wildlife community in south central Wyoming. Vegetation species richness and diversity were greater near the highwall compared with two adjacent sites 150 m in front of and behind the highwall. However, vegetation abundance (cover) was greater on the two adjacent sites. Small mammal abundance, richness, and diversity were greater on the highwall than on the two adjacent sites. Male bird abundance, richness, and diversity were greatest in front of the highwall (+ 50 m to + 350 m) compared with the highwall and the area behind the highwall. |
