The influence of undergrowth distribution on utilization of space by bank vole populations

Abstract

Maria MAZURKIEWICZ Mazurkiewicz M., 1986: The influence of undergrowth distribution on utilization of space by bank vole populations. Acta theriol., 31, 4: 55-69. [With 2 Tables & 7 Figs.] Studies were made in 1-hectare areas situated in 9 types of tree stand of the influence of clustered and random distribution of undergrowth on the spatial organization of Clethrionomys glareolus (Schre-ber, 1780). It was found that in areas with clustered undergrowth the population made use of a smaller space and reached greater local densities (on the utilized site) when total density was the same, as compared with areas in which undergrowth was distributed at random. In all ranges of local densities the home ranges were larger where there was random undergrowth distribution than where it was clustered , while the mean number of animals on a trapping site, forming the measure of contacts between individuals, was maintained on a similar level. In both types of area (clustered or random undergrowth distribution) the home ranges of sexually active females were similar in size, and the mean number of females on a trapping site was approximately 1, regardless of their local density.