EVALUATION OF METHODS TO ESTIMATE FIELD VOLE MICROTUS-AGRESTIS ABUNDANCE IN UPLAND HABITATS

C J REDPATH, S J THIRGOOD, S M REDPATH

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

22 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Field vole abundance was assessed on a range of upland habitats in spring and autumn, using live-trapping, snap-trapping and vole sign index methods. Three estimates of vole numbers were derived from live-trapping, five from snap-trapping and one from vole signs. Estimates were compared using a correlation matrix in order to establish the most accurate and consistent method. Snap-trapping for five nights provided enough information to calculate vole density, though the method was time consuming. Vole abundance indices derived from two nights' snap-trapping were significantly correlated with indices from five nights' trapping. Live-trapping and vole sign index were discounted as methods for this study area, as both proved unreliable.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)49-55
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Zoology
Volume237
Publication statusPublished - Sept 1995

Keywords

  • POPULATION
  • NUMBERS

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