Changes in trappability of common vole

Abstract

Individuals of Microtus arvalis (Pallas , 1779) were trapped by the CMR method on a 1 ha plot of alfalfa culture. The trappability of individuals in the whole population, as well as separately for both sexes and in particular age groups was calculated from the ratio of actual to all possible trappings. It was found that M. arvalis shows a low trappability. The dynamics of trappability in the investigated population was affected by changes in the activity of individuals depending on phenological factors and occurrence of the breeding season. During the latter period some differences in the trappability of males and females were observed. On the other hand, no changes were found in the trappability of individuals in relation to age.