We are searching for any information on the degree to which vertebrates create or cause the formation of canopy gaps in forests. For example, Japanese black bears create small canopy gaps in forests (Takahashi et al. 2015, PLOS One) and we have observed where porcupines can girdle and kill fairly large trees. Unfortunately, we have not been able to find much information on this topic in the literature and thus we are seeking help in finding any published accounts even anecdotal ones. Note, we are aware that there is an extensive literature on beavers and elephants and thus our interests lie with other vertebrates. Please send any response to: [email protected]
