Showing papers in "Hystrix-italian Journal of Mammalogy in 2014"

Missing the third dimension in geometric morphometrics: how to assess if 2D images really are a good proxy for 3D structures?

Abstract: Procrustean geometric morphometrics has made large use of 2D images for studying three-dimensional structures such as mammalian bones or arthropod exoskeleta. This type of use of 2D data is still widespread today and will likely remain common for several years due to its simplicity, efficiency and low cost. However, using 2D pictures to measure morphological variation in a 3D object is an approximation that inevitably implies measurement error. Despite this being an obvious problem, which was emphasized since the early days of the first applications of geometric morphometrics to biology, whether 2D is a good proxy for 3D has been a rather neglected topic in the literature until very recently. In this paper, using marmot mandibles and crania as an example, I show how to assess the potentially crucial impact of 'missing the third dimension' in 2D landmarks and suggest a new method to test the accuracy of these data: the method is simple and can be easily performed in a user-friendly free software such as MorphoJ. This test is complimentary to other more exploratory analyses, that can also be performed using free programs and might offer a routine protocol to estimate the goodness of the 2D to 3D approximation in geometric morphometrics. Example data and a fully worked out MorphoJ project are provided for readers to learn how to replicate the analysis. Download the complete issue.

First record of a possibly overlooked impact by alien parrots on a bat (Nyctalus leisleri)

Abstract: Although its interferences on native biodiversity are still poorly known, the rose-ringed parakeet Psittacula krameri is currently recorded as one of the 100 worst alien species. The impacts on native fauna by this parrot are mainly represented by the displacement of native birds from nesting sites, with direct lethal attacks observed only against little owls and red squirrels. To date, competition with bats for tree cavities has been hypothesized but not documented yet. We recorded a fatal attack of a parakeet towards a Leisler’s bat (Nyctalus leisleri), roosting or possibly hibernating in a trunk cavity. Although this is the only report available, the fact that both parrots and many bat species use tree cavities suggests that similar cases may be relatively frequent although sporadically observed. This observation puts emphasis on the need to supporting active monitoring and management of introduced species populations to preserve threatened native fauna.

Decreased small mammals species diversity and increased population abundance along a gradient of agricultural intensification

Abstract: Agricultural intensification has been widespread worldwide over the last decades and has lead to a loss of semi-natural habitats. These changes are likely to have aected both the composition and diversity of small mammal communities living in agricultural landscapes. In this context, we comparedpopulationabundance(expressedasanindexofrelativeabundance), speciesrichness(S), andspeciesdiversity(expressedasShannonandPielouindexes)ofsmallmammalassemblages(i.e. sub-sets of the entire small mammal community) living in three areas in North-East Italy positioned alongagradientofagriculturalland-useintensification(measuredwiththeLandscapeConservation Index). We expected that assemblages would be less diverse and dominated by generalist species where the landscape was more intensely cultivated and where semi-natural habitats were less common. In the three areas, from a total of 4630 trap-nights, 668 individuals were captured with Sherman traps, belonging to four species (Apodemus agrarius, A. flavicollis, A. sylvaticus and Microtus arvalis). The results showed that population abundance, type of species present (but not species richness), and species diversity were aected by agricultural intensification and landscape naturalness. In particular, moving from less natural to more natural landscapes, we observed no eect on richness of species but increasing diversity due to a greater abundance of the more specialist species, such as A. agrarius and, partially, A. flavicollis, the latter only present in the most natural area. Generalist species, namelyA. sylvaticus, and those associated withdisturbed environments, such asM. arvalis, were instead more abundant in less natural landscapes. When considering population abundance, the highest overall abundance of small mammals was found in the most disturbed landscape. The results were consistent with those of research carried out in other agroecosystems of Europe and highlight the controversial eect of the anthropogenic impact on small mammal assemblages, since a decrease in species diversity may be associated with an increased overall population abundance, due to the success of few generalist species.

Diet composition of the invasive raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) and the native red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in north-east Germany

Abstract: Carcasses of red foxes (n=256) and raccoon dogs (n=253) were collected throughout Mecklenburg Western-Pomerania (north-east Germany) between August 2004 and January 2007. Frequency of occurrence (FO) and biomass share (BS) were estimated for fifteen and seven food categories, respectively. Diet analyses indicate that both canids are omnivorous and pursue opportunistic feeding strategies. Small mammals (BS=31.2, FO=38.7) and vegetable matter (BS=51.3, FO=63.1) were the most important food resources for red foxes and raccoon dogs, respectively. Interspecies differences were recorded for vegetable matter, small mammals and insects. While red foxes mostly feed on voles, raccoon dogs consumed mice and shrews as often as voles. However, unlike red foxes, raccoon dogs did not use small mammals intensively all year round. Only raccoon dogs preyed on amphibians. There were no differences in carrion consumption between red foxes (BS=21.2) and raccoon dogs (BS=18.2). Both red foxes (FO=8.4) and raccoon dogs (FO=8.0) scavenged on wild boar. Moreover, there was evidence that two red foxes foraged on raccoon dogs and vice versa . Mean annual interspecies diet overlap indices were high. We found clear competition for carrion year-round. The diets determined for raccoon dogs and red foxes were quite similar and a similar food niche breadth was recorded. However, only minor competition is assumed to take place since differences in feeding habits do exist. Download the complete issue.

Surveillance, monitoring and surveys of wildlife diseases: a public health and conservation approach

Abstract: During the past decades the interest in surveillance and monitoring of wildlife diseases has grown internationally. The main reasons could be the following: a) increased size of many wild populations that host pathogens affecting humans; b) the increased economic relevance of some wildlife disease; c) the role played by infections/diseases in the conservation of some wild endangered species. According to the above-described epidemiological situations there is an international need to develop appropriate strategies for the early detection, monitoring and surveys of infectious diseases in wildlife. The paper reviews the epidemiological assumptions on which disease surveillance, monitoring and survey are, or should be, based. The main conclusions are: 1) wildlife disease surveillance and monitoring are long lasting activities that should be implemented when legal bases are available; 2) a wildlife disease introduced in a free area is more likely to be early detected using passive rather than active surveillance; 3) the definition of the "suspect case" largely affects the sensitivity of the whole passive surveillance; thus the suspected case definition should be modulated according to the level of risk; 4) in both active surveillance and monitoring, sampling plays an important role. The sensitivity of any active surveillance/monitoring system is highly dependent from the sampling unit that we define as: " the host subpopulation, whose size can maintain the pathogen during a defined inter-sampling interval ". Such definition merges the ecological, epidemiological and mathematical approaches aimed in controlling or eradicating infections in both domestic and wildlife; 5) When dealing with the conservation-disease interface, a standardized risk assessment procedure including risk mitigation has to become the rule. Download the complete issue.

Spatial and temporal explorative analysis of sarcoptic mange in Alpine chamois ( Rupicapra r. rupicapra )

Abstract: The sarcoptic mange epizootic affecting chamois in the Dolomites Alps since 1995 has risen considerable concern in a management and conservation perspective, due to its strong impact on chamois and ibex populations. A remarkable amount of data has been collected by different wildlife research and management institutions, in order to analyze mange patterns and develop possible strategies to control the disease. The present study is aimed at providing a population-related figure of the spatial and temporal dynamics of clinical sarcoptic mange in alpine chamois, proposing an approach in which relevant basic concepts and parameters, as the definition of the epidemic front and its spreading speed, can be estimated and framed. The epidemic front was referred to the different mountain massifs, corresponding to well established management units of the chamois in the study area; moreover, the mange-related mortality peak at the massif level was used (in substitution of the index case/s) for temporal analysis of the disease spreading. Two speeds of the front have been estimated: a first raw average speed of about 3.38 km/year, and a second refined speed of 4.64 ± 3.12 km/year, more consistent to the variability in the field. The time series analysis showed that the impact of mange increases over the late winter months, reaching a peak in early spring. Our results strengthen the conclusions of previous studies, proposing a new frame to include other studies in progress on the alpine chamois- Sarcoptes interactions. Download the complete issue.

The changing patterns in the distribution of red and grey squirrels in the North of England and Scotland between 1991 and 2010 based on volunteer surveys

Abstract: In the UK, alien grey squirrels have been replacing the native red squirrel for >100 years and by the turn of the century the distribution of grey squirrels had extended to most of central and southern England and Wales (apart from some islands), and large parts of Scotland and Ireland. To understand how this species replacement may continue into the future, we explore 20 years of squirrel records (1991-2010) collected in an unsystematic way by volunteers in northern England and Scotland. To aid analysis, we standardised the data to one record of squirrel presence per 4 km square per year in each of six geographic regions, two in northern England and four in Scotland. Over the 20 years and across all regions, the number of 4 km squares that returned the presence of squirrels increased from 23% to 80%. The evolving distribution pattern of red and grey squirrels differed among the regions and was complex with occupancy records for many 4 km squares changing from red to grey squirrel from one year to the next, but also some changing from grey to red squirrel. The net rate of change, however, was from red to grey squirrel with the exception of the more recent years, 2007-2010, when this trend became less distinct. Estimates of the complete loss of red squirrels assuming current trends, varied from the 2020s in northern England to 2104 in North East Scotland. The recent incertitudes in the replacement of red by grey squirrels may, at least in part, result from increasing efforts to control grey squirrels in these regions. Although the volunteer data presented are valuable, monitoring aims must be clearly defined and sampling designs involving volunteers and professionals must be systematic and of sufficient effort to obtain reliable information on changes in distribution and population trends. Download the complete issue.

Monitoring protocols for the evaluation of the impact of wild boar (Sus scrofa) rooting on plants and animals in forest ecosystems

Abstract: The management of wild boar ( Sus scrofa ) is an issue of increasing global conservation concern. Statistically robust monitoring protocols, allowing the detection of biologically relevant changes in biodiversity indices due to wild boar activities, are crucial tools for the management of wild boar populations. The goal of our study was to present a robust procedure targeted towards elaborating monitoring protocols for the evaluation of the impact of wild boar rooting on forest plants and animals. We compared two pairs of macro-areas characterized by contrasting levels of rooting activity. We then evaluated the effect of rooting on several parameters of four forest communities: understorey vascular plants, ground invertebrates, Carabid beetles and small mammals. We found that the evenness of the Carabid community was significantly higher in high-rooting macro-areas. Moreover, the diversity and evenness indices of understorey vascular plants were higher in high-rooting macro-areas, while the abundance of the Etruscan shrew ( Suncus etruscus ) was higher in the low-rooting macro-areas, although these differences were only marginally significant. The results of the remaining tests were all non-significant. However, confidence intervals of measured effect sizes always included biologically relevant effects; therefore, these results should be considered inconclusive. The magnitude of the effect we detected on several biodiversity indices was considerably small (probably due to a certain degree of rooting affecting currently and in the past all the macro-areas), therefore high sampling effort should be required to detect such subtle differences. Researchers and practitioners should carefully consider the complexity of monitoring the impact of wild boar and the choice of the parameters to investigate since our study clearly shows that monitoring some biodiversity indices requires a substantial investment of sampling effort and a well-structured a priori -planning phase. Failing to do so will inevitably lead to a waste of resources and /or wrong management decisions. Click here to access supplementary files Download the complete issue.

Alien rose-ringed parakeets ( Psittacula krameri ) attack black rats ( Rattus rattus ) sometimes resulting in death

Abstract: The rose-ring parakeet (Psittacula krameri) is one of the most successful invasive birds in its establishment worldwide. Studies addressing its potential impact on native biota mostly focus on birds and little is known about how these and other parakeet species interact with native mammals. Here, we report 21 aggressions of rose-ringed parakeets towards black rats (Rattus rattus) in urban parks in Seville (Southern Spain) and Tenerife (Canary Islands). Either solitary parakeets or, more often, groups of up to 18 attacked rats when they climbed trees close to parakeet nests. Most attacks ended when the rats descended to the ground. However, in two instances (9.5 % of the aggressions) the attacks resulted in the death of the rats as a result of falling to the pavement. These observations add further complexity to a biological invasion, where introduced parakeets have negative impacts on a predator and thus, some native bird species may benefit from their antipredator behavior. More attention should be paid to the interactions between native mammals and the non-native parakeets introduced worldwide.

Seasonal food habits of the red panda (Ailurus fulgens) in Rara National Park, Nepal

Abstract: We documented the seasonal food habits of the red panda Ailurus fulgens based on the analysis of 152 fecal pellet groups in Rara National Park, Nepal, using micro-histological techniques. We also reviewed previous studies documenting the degree of specialization in red panda diets throughout their range. We found that bamboo was the major food item for red pandas in Rara National Park, occurring in 100% of pellet groups in both the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Similarly, bamboo was also reported as the dominant food item (80‐100%) in the diet of red pandas in seven studies conducted throughout their range. These results confirm previous findings and suggest that red pandas may be vulnerable to bamboo loss through anthropogenic impacts, which could influence their survival.

Causes of admission and final dispositions of hedgehogs admitted to three Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers in eastern Spain

Abstract: We studied hedgehog admissions to the three Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers of the Valencian Community (eastern Spain) over a five years period (2009-2013). A total of 490 hedgehogs were admitted: 84% corresponded to common hedgehogs and 16% to Algerian hedgehogs. A bimodal distribution of the admissions was observed along the year, with highest number of admissions during summer and another (lower) peak on winter. Main reasons for admission were casual encounters (41%) and orphaned young hedgehogs (19%). A total of 299 hedgehogs (71% of the individuals that arrive alive to the centers) could be released successfully to the wild, with better recovery indices for animals accidentally found, previously held in captivity and orphaned young; and worst indices for parasitized hedgehogs, affected by infections and by road casualties. With regards to orphaned young hedgehogs, arrival weight was the variable with highest influence over the likelihood of successfully rehabilitation. Finally, involving the general public in the rehabilitation process proved to be very productive, for both environmental awareness purposes and the own rehabilitated animals. Download the complete issue.

Acoustic identification of free-flying Schreiber's bat Miniopterus schreibersii by social calls

Abstract: Despite the recent advances in the identification of bat echolocation calls, some species are still difficult or impossible to distinguish at least under certain habitat conditions. Social calls are generally species-specific and may be successfully used to tell species apart. Echolocation calls of Miniopterus schreibersii can be distinguished from those of Pipistrellus pipistrellus and P. pygmaeus in many cases, especially when a multivariate approach to call identification is used, but call variables of these species still show a certain degree of overlap. In this study we provide a description of M. schreibersii social calls. They can be recorded both in roosting and foraging areas and their structure diers greatly from that known for social calls of the above-mentioned pipistrelles. Recording social calls from this species may lead to unambiguous identification and help assess its distribution when echolocation calls alone do not suce.

Camera trapping ocelots: an evaluation of felid attractants

Abstract: Ocelots ( Leopardus pardalis ) and other wild cats are often surveyed using camera traps to identify individuals for density estimation via capture-recapture analyses or estimate occupancy via detection/non-detection analyses. Though attractants are sometimes used in such surveys, there have not been any evaluations of the effectiveness of common visual and olfactory attractants in field settings. As part of a medium and large mammal camera survey in the San Juan – La Selva Biological Corridor, Costa Rica, we integrated camera trap data within an occupancy modelling framework to estimate the effects of hanging compact disks (visual), cologne (olfactory), and sardines in oil (olfactory) on ocelot detection probabilities. Compact disks appeared to have the most information-theoretic model support, whereas cologne received less model support. The use of compact disks in surveys was also less time-consuming and less expensive than the olfactory attractants. Ocelots are visual hunters and using visual attractants can increase detection probabilities and therefore reduce uncertainty and/or reduce survey effort to obtain robust population or occupancy estimates, although using cologne might also have similar effects. Depending on logistic constraints, we recommend employing several attractants as the most appropriate way to survey ocelots and other rare felids in the future when detection biases are assumed to be strong, particularly as part of mammal community surveys. Download the complete issue.

Inter-specific viral infections: can the management of captive red squirrel collections help inform scientific research?

Abstract: Squirrel pox virus (SQPV) and adenovirus produce pathological disease in native red squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris ). SQPV in particular is a significant factor in regional population declines and is generally prevalent in the UK's introduced grey squirrel ( Sciurus carolinensis ) population as an asymptomatic infection. Despite the role of the grey squirrel as a virus reservoir and potential inter-specific infection pathways being highlighted, there remains a paucity of field study data with known relative inter-specific infection rates and quantified frequency of interactions. Intriguingly, whilst captive zoological red squirrel collections are often present within woodland habitat containing wild grey squirrels, clinical pox cases are rarely observed unless red squirrels are released from the enclosures. In 2011 we monitored grey squirrel activity on an enclosure containing red squirrels. Grey squirrels were present for a cumulative total of 47.5 minutes within the twenty four hours of observation. A range of behaviours were recorded including feeding, and instances where discarded food fell into the red squirrel enclosures below. We interpret the value of these observations in the context of published theories of viral transmission. The local grey squirrels were subsequently culled and tested for evidence of both historical and current SQPV and adenovirus infections. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays did not amplify adenovirus DNA from grey squirrel blood samples, but positive results were recorded in faeces (3/18, 17%) and (10/18, 56%) in parallel spleen samples from the same animals. This variation in tissue specific detection rates suggests that previous long-term surveillance of adenovirus in wild grey squirrels focussing on blood samples may have significantly underestimated true infection rates. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) tests revealed exposure to SQPV by antibody presence in 33% of the animals. Additionally, 22% of the animals contained detectable levels of both viruses. In parallel with laboratory and field studies in 2011, we collated historical unpublished reports and archived data from a range of UK squirrel collections and highlight some key cases of infection. We recommend that further behavioural and viral screening studies are focussed within scenarios where captive red squirrels are sympatric with wild grey squirrels. Download the complete issue.

Winter habitat selection by the European hare (Lepus europaeus) during feeding activity in a farmland area of southern Tuscany (Italy)

Abstract: WeinvestigatedthewinterhabitatusebytheEuropeanhare(Lepuseuropaeus)atthemacro-habitat level in a farmland area of southern Tuscany during feeding activity using spot-light counts. Olive tree groves, cereal stubbles and winter cereals were used more than their availability, whereas ploughed fields, alfalfa and fallow fields were used less than their availability. Olive tree groves were the most used, followed by cereal stubbles. Since approximately 50% of over-wintering cereal stubbles were the result of economic agreements between the hunting district and local farmers, the study confirms the importance of this kind of agro-environmental measure for hare conservation.

Gastro-intestinal helminths in the red-bellied squirrel introduced in Argentina: accidental acquisitions and lack of specific parasites

Abstract: Introduced species may lose their natural parasites when invading a new habitat, may acquire new, local parasites or may introduce parasites from their native range. We studied the gastro-intestinal helminth fauna associated with the red-bellied squirrel Callosciurus erythraeus (Pallas, 1778) introduced in Argentina to evaluate its role as a host of either specific or acquired parasites in two invasion foci. We analyzed entire digestive tracts of 72 red-bellied squirrels captured in the main invasionfocus(Lujan, provinceofBuenosAires)betweenFebruaryandMay2011, andinasecondary focus (Canada de Gomez, province of Santa Fe) in December 2008. We only found two nematode specimens: an adult male belonging to the genus Pterygodermatites (Paucipectines) Quentin, 1969 and another adult male belonging to the genus Stilestrongylus (Freitas, Lent and Almeida, 1973). None of these genera were previously listed for the red-bellied squirrel in introduced areas, but a species of the genus Pterygodermatites was previously reported for this squirrel in its native habitat. These results indicate that, to date, the red-bellied squirrel in Argentina is accidentally parasitised by nematodes acquired in its new environment and has no specific gastro-intestinal helminths. This could be related with a “founder eect” and/or the lack of sciurid rodents that prevent the red-bellied squirrel to be colonized by pre-adapted helminth taxa. Other factors that may play a role are the small number of mammals with arboreal habits and some “encounter barriers” in the new environment that prevent the acquisition of helminths with a wide host spectrum.

Habitat effects on hoarding plasticity in the Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)

Abstract: Hoarding patterns can be classified into two general types: scatter-hoarding and larder-hoarding, but there are intermediate types. Various factors affect hoarding patterns. Animals hoarding identical seeds in different habitats may use different hoarding patterns to adapt to habitat variation. We used a sample-plot investigation method to study cache features and recovery rate of seeds of Arolla pine ( Pinus cembra ) by Eurasian red squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris ) in 2009 and 2010 in two subalpine forests with different tree-species composition in the Italian Alps. Hoarding patterns of red squirrels varied among habitats: the typical scatter-hoarding pattern with most caches including 2-6 seeds is found in spruce ( Picea abies ) dominated forest, while a combination of few large caches (≥10 seeds) and many small caches (less than 10 seeds) is found in Arolla pine dominated forest. Consequently, average number of seeds/cache was higher in the latter habitat. Among five microhabitats, shrubs, grass, moss, fallen leaves, and stone, Eurasian red squirrels preferred fallen leaves and moss as hoarding substrate. Cache recovery investigation indicated that recovery rate was 62% in spruce forest and only 21% in Arolla pine forest. A lower availability of suitable hoarding microhabitat resulted in changes in hoarding patterns of red squirrels in Pinus cembra dominated forest. We suggest that the main factor influencing differences in recovery rate was a higher cone production per tree in Pinus cembra forest. Download the complete issue.

Rediscovery of Mehely's horseshoe bat ( Rhinolophus mehelyi ) in peninsular Italy

Abstract: Rhinolophus mehelyi is strictly confined to the Mediterranean. Its populations are reported to be declining in much of the species' geographical range, which is quite fragmented. In ItalyR. mehelyi was thought to be extinct in peninsular Italy, and still occurring in Sardinia (with large colonies) and Sicily (two remnant colonies). For peninsular Italy its presence was reported only for Apulia (SE Italy) but the latest records dated back to the 1960's. In this note we confirm the presence of this species in the same region for the Zinzulusa Cave (Castro, Lecce).

Will an ancient refuge become a modern one? a critical review on the conservation and research priorities for the red squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris ) in the Iberian peninsula

Abstract: Mediterranean peninsulas are well-known glacial refugia for several mammal species. For Eurasian red squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris ), a forest-dwelling rodent, there is some evidence that population diversification was influenced by these refugia. Here, we review the poorly known history of the red squirrel in the Iberian Peninsula, and discuss current threats to this species, suggesting conservation guidelines and exploring several research lines for forthcoming studies. Red squirrel populations suffered several bottlenecks in Iberia, but recently, after four centuries of absence, this species is expanding throughout the Portuguese territory. Although S. vulgaris taxonomic and genetic status needs further investigation, molecular data support the occurrence of a possible distinct cluster in the Iberian Peninsula. Additionally, a distinct and endemic population was recorded to the Sierra de Espuna, in Spain, which was probably the result of Quaternary climatic and vegetation fluctuations. Two major threats for red squirrels in Europe were identified: (i) habitat deterioration; and (ii) competition with the invasive Eastern grey squirrel ( S. carolinensis ). Conservation actions should focus on the conservation, restoration and appropriate management of suitable forested habitats. Although to date no grey squirrels occur in the wild in the Iberia, the trade and release of this invasive sciurid species is already forbidden by national conservation agencies in both Iberian countries and awareness campaigns are suggested. An integrated research approach using both molecular and ecological data, and a large dataset containing samples from the entire Iberian Peninsula, should be followed to better understand historical, contemporary and future factors that may affect squirrel distribution. Download the complete issue.

Fatal long distance roaming of a male bear highlights survival threats to dispersing bears in the Apennines, central Italy

Abstract: FromSeptember2006throughMay2010, werepeatedlydetectedanadultmalebear(G70)through non-invasive sampling in the Sibillini National Park (SNP; central Apennines, Italy), at the northernmost periphery of the reported Apennine bear range. Notwithstanding sustained sampling effort, we failed to detect bear G70 in SNP after May 2010, but in autumn 2010 it was twice detected, through non-invasive sampling, in the Duchessa Nature Reserve (76 km south of the SNP), revealing its southward travel across the central Apennines. More than one year later (16 January 2012), a male bear was live-captured in the Sirente-Velino Regional Park showing clinical symptoms of Aujeszki’s disease. The bear died overnight, and genotyping revealed it to be bear G70. Although the causes of death were not clearly determined, poisoning, shooting and vehicle accident were ruled out, suggesting more subtle mortality factors (e.g., diseases) were responsible. The long distance movements and the fate of this adult male bear indicate that, even though protected and suitable areas are connected across the Apennines to some degree, the expected expansion of the Apennine bear range from the core distribution might be suering from undisclosed anthropogenic risks of mortality in the peripheral portions of the range.

A lethal interaction between two female roe deer

Abstract: Although aggressive behavioural patterns directed by female ungulates to conspecifics of the same sex have been documented for Cervids and Bovids, lethal interactions are very rare. This note reports the observation of a lethal attack carried out by an adult female roe deer to a subadult one. Apparently, the attacking, older female killed the younger one by striking to the throat/neck and abdomen of the latter, with her incisor teeth. Female roe deer are assumed not to defend territories and live in loose, small groups only in the winter months. Download the complete issue.

Seasonal habitat use in Eurasian red squirrels residing in Iberian hedgerows

Abstract: Hedgerows are considered habitat corridors for Eurasian red squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris ). However, in north Iberia, a red squirrel population resides in hedgerows separating meadows. This study assesses seasonal microhabitat selection in this peculiar squirrel population. The detection rate was higher in winter and autumn than in spring and summer because of the confluence of different biological and environmental factors. Red squirrels were mainly arboreal, though they used the ground to some degree throughout the year. The height at which individuals were seen in shrubs/trees was maximum in spring related to intensive use of high poplars. A seasonal variation in plant selection was found. Red squirrels selected oaks, ivy and poplars positively in winter, poplars, ashes and willows in spring, hazels, wild cherries and willows in summer, and hazels, ashes and willows in autumn, linked with shelter, nest-site and food requirements. Conservation of dense hedgerow networks with a high diversity of shrub and tree species is encouraged. Download the complete issue.

Morphological measurements of pine marten in central Italy

Abstract: The knowledge of morphological features of species can help to understand other related biological aspects. In Italy the European pine marten Martes martes seems to show a recent expansion of its distribution, however information on this species in our Country are scarce. Very few data on biometric measurements are available, mainly referred to the Sardinian population, and the only published study on peninsular populations was based exclusively on cranial morphology. For this reasons we aimed to provide external morphological data on thirty-three pine marten in Tuscany, central Italy. In addition, we found that pine marten appear to be quite distinguishable from the sibling species stone marten M. foina by inspection of coat colour and marking pattern, showing that qualitative diagnosis of external morphological traits can be very useful to identify this species in central Italy. In fact, genetic analyses on samples of hair confirmed the correct attribution. Download the complete issue.

Are nest boxes a useful tool in regional red squirrel conservation programs

Abstract: We examined temporal (annual and seasonal) patterns of nest box occupancy by red squirrels in a coniferous habitat in Great Britain. The effects of woodland habitat variation, and competition from nesting Great tits were investigated over a nine year period using basic linear models with a binomial error structure. Box use varied seasonally with peaks in the summer and autumn and was positively associated with the abundance of larch. 60 nest boxes yielded nine red squirrel carcasses, and although a small number, the material would be useful in genetic and viral infection studies. Nest boxes were not favoured by breeding female red squirrels and only three litters were found. We highlight the value and limitation of nest boxes as a tool in the applied conservation of red squirrels, and make recommendations for future areas of research on this topic. Download the complete issue.

Effect of wildlife refuges on small carnivores in a hunting area in Mediterranean habitat

Abstract: Most of Spain is managed for game hunting, an economic activity that is commonly related to predator control. This practice can affect the diversity and abundance of wild carnivores if, despite that hunting is legally focused on some target species, other species are illegally removed. This note evaluates the changes in the structure of carnivore assemblage between wildlife refuges (no predator control) and private areas managed for game production where, because of little regulation, foxes and crows can be eliminated. Our aim is to test if predator control produces a significant change in the presence of foxes (the target species) or whether it also affects other carnivores. Download the complete issue.

Is the micronucleus test indicative of the chronic exposure to genotoxic agents in all mammals? Implications of the spleen in the results of this test

Abstract: Environmental studies in several countries are including genotoxicity tests as tools to evaluate exposure to contaminants. Most of these tests are developed on sentinel species of mammals. The Ctenomys genus has been used as a sentinel for screening environmental contamination in several countries as Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Uruguay. One of the most used assays has been the in vivo micronucleus test which can be conducted easily on peripheral blood samples since the maturation of erythrocytes involves the loss of the major nucleus. The test potentially can detect genotoxic damage caused by chronic exposures. However, the results obtained may reflect chronic exposure depending on the spleen features that the species have. Until now, there are no studies to determine the role of the spleen in the Ctenomys genus. This note provides new data dealing with this subject and provides an anatomical interpretation of the results obtained. To determine chronic or recently exposure when a sentinel is used, is highly recommended to develop this kind of approaches. Download the complete issue.