Mammals of Northwestern South Dakota

"Mammals of Northwestern South Dakota" by Kenneth W. Andersen and J. Knox Jones is a scientific publication that was published in the early 1970s. This book presents a detailed study of the mammalian fauna in Harding County, South Dakota, a region that has been relatively overlooked in terms of biological research on mammals. The authors aim to document over 50 species of mammals known to inhabit this area, contributing valuable knowledge to the field of mammalogy and the understanding of biodiversity in the Northern Great Plains. The book begins by setting the geographical and climatic context of Harding County, describing its rolling hills, grasslands, and the specific habitats these mammals occupy. Following this introduction, the authors provide accounts for each species observed, including their characteristics, reproductive data, and ecological context. The information is based on collection efforts conducted in several field studies between 1960 and 1970, detailing various species such as coyotes, deer, and various small mammals. In addition to the principal accounts, the text also mentions ten species that are suspected to occur in the region but have not yet been confirmed. Overall, the work serves as both a resource and a reference for researchers and enthusiasts interested in the wildlife of northwestern South Dakota.