Drivers of twoneedle pinyon (Pinus edulis) cone productivity: Implication for wildlife

•Based on tree morphology, higher cone abundance of twoneedle pinyon was predicted by older (larger diameter) trees and lower percent canopy defoliation.•Based on site conditions, representing water availability, higher per-tree cone abundance of twoneedle pinyon was predicted by lower density of reproductive trees and lower heat load.•Overall stand cone production increased with increasing density of reproductive pinyons.•An endemic chipmunk did not select habitat based on 8-year stand cone production, although there was a suggestion that it selected sites exhibiting high annual cone abundance during a high mast year.•Maximizing pinyon cone production would be best met by maintaining dense old growth stands.