bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An analysis of sightings of Cetacea in British waters
Authors: EVANS P. G. H.
Published: April 2008

An analysis is carried out of all documented sightings of cetaceans in British waters between 1950–1975, received by the Cetacean Group. Two major problems which must be taken into account in such an analysis are difficulties of specific identification and bias from uneven coverage.

The results show that porpoises are present in coastal waters for much of the year. The pattern of movements for this species is rather confused. Most dolphin species show peak numbers in summer, earliest in the north of Britain and later further south. Risso's dolphins may enter British waters rather earlier in spring than other species. Killer whales occur off the west coast of Britain and Ireland mainly between June‐September. Pilot whales are seen in North Britain at most times of the year but otherwise enter British waters along the west coast in spring. Bottle‐nosed whales and the larger whale species, including the Rorquals, are found only on the north and west coasts in summer and early autumn. For all species, herd size increases at the same time as increase in the numbers of sightings reported. Different species have different herd sizes with the largest occurring amongst porpoise and all dolphin species except Risso's dolphin, and the smallest amongst the large whale species. Herds may be accompanied by young individuals in spring‐late summer, depending on the species.
Theoretical aspects concerning transmission of the parasite Skrjabingylus nasicola (Leukart 1842) to stoats and weasels, with a review of the literature
Authors: DUNCAN NEIL
Published: April 2008

Skrjabingylus nasicola belongs to a genus of parasitic nematodes which invade members of the Mustelidae. Despite its widespread occurrence, little is known about the natural mechanisms of transmission. Certain inferences as to how transmission might occur are drawn from indirect sources, such as the behaviour of the nematode first stage larvae, and the severity of infections assessed by quantifying skull damage to the host species. The possibility that the parasite is transmitted in times of food shortage for the host is discussed in the light of previous work and knowledge of the ecology of mustelids.
The biology of aardvark (Tubulidentata‐Orycteropodidae)
Authors: MELTON DEREK A.
Published: April 2008

The aardvark is a large nocturnal mammal with an anatomy highly specialized to cope with a myrmecophagous diet and a fossorial habit. Today it is present throughout Africa south of the Sahara, but the actual distribution is very patchy and in some areas it has been largely exterminated by man.

For many years the species was classified in the Edentata, along with other ‘anteaters’ such as Myrmecophaga and the pangolins. It is now recognized as comprising an order to itself, the Tubulidentata; so named because of the unique structure of the teeth.

Aardvark are generally believed to have evolved from the protoungulates (Condylarthra), although earlier origins for the group have been suggested.

Little is known of the ecology of this animal, no detailed study having been made. Burrows, often quite extensive, are dug and play an important role in the life of aardvark. They are the diurnal resting sites, refuges from nocturnal predators and the places where young are born.

Termites, particularly Macrotermes, and ants (Formicidae) constitute almost the whole diet, being obtained by frequent digging at night. A zig‐zag foraging pattern is used with no particular attention being paid to termite mounds. The senses of hearing and smell both appear to be important in food location.

The extent of man's effects on the animal, through hunting and habitat alteration, is not known. It is concluded that a detailed ecological study is required to assess the need for conservation measures and generally gauge the status of the species.
Population fluctuations of Field voles (Microtus): a background to the problems involved in predicting vole plagues
Authors: TAPPER S. C.
Published: April 2008

The course of various investigations into vole cycles is briefly reviewed and it is shown that an increasing proportion of workers are looking for intrinsic mechanisms of control which might cause the periodic fluctuations; however, no single line of investigation can be said to dominate the field and extrinsic factors such as food supply or predation could be heavily involved. The majority of work has failed to take into account the spatial aspects of these cycles and future work in this field might resolve some of the conflicts about the demographic aspects. As yet few workers have considered vole cycles on a geographical scale and just how these major changes in abundance relate to the local fluctuations of smaller populations is not known. Various methods used to measure vole densities are reviewed and suggestions are made on how they can be used to provide information on different aspects of vole population studies.
The decline of the rarer carnivores in Great Britain during the nineteenth century
Authors: LANGLEY P. J. W. , YALDEN D. W.
Published: April 2008

marten (Martes martes) and Wild cat (Felis silvestris) in Great Britain during the nineteenth century is surveyed, and a series of maps to illustrate the declines is presented. These highlight the different patterns of decline in the three species, and draw attention to the parallels in certain birds of prey. The declines do not match the decline in woodland, which was largely completed before they began. They do coincide with the development of the sporting estate, and moreover the differences between the species can partly be explained by differences in persecution.
The distribution of Apodemus flavicollis in Britain
Authors: CORKE DAVID
Published: April 2008

The restricted distribution of the Yellow‐necked woodmouse (Apodemus flavicollis (Melchior)) in Britain is reviewed and compared with that of the widely distributed woodmouse (A sylvaticus (Linn.)). It appears that A. flavicollis occurs mostly in low‐lying woodland intermixed with arable land, although not all the data agree with this and the precise distribution pattern remains incompletely explained.
Man's impact on seals
Authors: BONNER W. NIGEL
Published: April 2008

The major direct effects of man on seal populations are caused by hunting. Subsistence hunting using traditional methods has a long history and generally resulted in a balance between the hunters and the seals. More recently commercial hunting, using sophisticated methods, has reduced many seal stocks to low levels. In some cases no balance was achieved and either the seals or the industry became extinct. Minor direct effects of man on seals include sport hunting and the destruction of seals for fisheries protection. These are generally of local importance only. Indirect effects may be either detrimental or beneficial to seal stocks. Detrimental effects include fishing operations which may result in the unintentional destruction of seals or compete with seals for available limited fish stocks, habitat destruction, pollution, and anthropogenic disturbance. Beneficial indirect effects include increase of available food stocks resulting from the reduction of another predator, increase of available breeding habitat as a result of human population shifts, and changes in ethical attitudes to seals.
Habitat preferences of ungulates in closed savanna of central Africa
Authors: EVANS P. G. H.
Published: April 2008

Habitat preferences of fifteen species of ungulate were studied between July and September 1975 in dry savanna woodland of Mwabvi Game Reserve, Southern Malawi, Central Africa.

Thirteen vegetation types were recognized using vegetation transects and plotless sampling techniques (but three of these are omitted from further analysis here either because of the difficulty of sampling in a representative manner or because of their infrequency). A combination of six methods was used to study habitat preferences since each had particular advantages or disadvantages, although quadrat sampling of fresh pellets/spoor counts was the most satisfactory and so used predominantly.

The most common and widely distributed species was the Greater kudu, although abundance estimates in different habitats varied according to the method used. Pellet/spoor counts showed heavy use of open grassland by kudu which was not detected by daytime drives. Temporal patterns of activity indicated that the species was moving into more closed woodland during the day and only coming out into open grassland at night. Relative abundance estimates of a species may also be affected by changing group size. The mean group size of kudu increased in more open vegetation, although group size in warthog did not show this relationship. Some species, e.g. impala, reedbuck, and klipspringer showed narrow habitat preferences, occurring in only one or a few vegetation types, whilst others, e.g. kudu, sable, duiker, suni, and grysbok showed much broader preferences.

Mixed Colophospermum mopane /Acacia woodland had the highest species diversity but rather low abundance. Open grassland and Acacia/Albizia woodland had high species diversity together with the greatest abundance of ungulates. Open Julbernardia/Diplorynchus, Brachystegia/Julber‐nardia woodland, and particularly Pterocarpus/Diplorynchus/Combretum hill woodland had the lowest species diversity and abundance of ungulates. Ready access to cover and availability of suitable food plants probably account for the preferences of certain vegetation types over others, whilst the different behavioural ecology and food preferences of each species account for individual species differences. Access to water probably also determines habitat preferences in particular species, and studies during the wet season may show different distributions.
Marine mammal chemoreception
Authors: LOWELL W. R. , FLANIGAN W. F.
Published: April 2008

The presence or absence of a chemoreceptive capacity in marine mammals has drawn relatively little attention from the research community outside the Soviet Union. Toothed whales are typically labelled anosmic (lacking a sense of smell) since they do not have the peripheral olfactory structures typically associated with terrestrial mammals. Baleen whales are known to possess reduced olfactory tracts; their olfactory bulbs also may be reduced or absent. Although the neural structures that mediate taste in terrestrial mammals have been reported to be present in both groups of whales, cetaceans have been considered to have a poor sense of taste because typical mammalian taste receptors have been thought to be absent. Soviet researchers, however, recently have reported that gustatory receptors are present on some cetacean tongues and that the tongue of Tursiops truncatus appear to be well innervated. These workers also have been conducting investigations which seem to be aimed at describing a specialized gustatory capability in cetaceans. No experimental work has been reported by Western scientists. Little work has been done by either Western or Soviet researchers with regard to chemoreception among the other orders of marine mammals (Pinnipedia, Carnivora and Sirenia). Pinnipedia are typically labelled microsmatic (having a poor sense of smell); research has been restricted to histological examination of the nasal pathways, and neural anatomy. Sea otters are credited with a keen sense of smell, but no quantitative work has been reported. The chemosensory abilities of Sirenia remain unknown. The tongues of non‐cetacean marine mammals have been histologically examined and found to resemble those of terrestrial mammals. No other investigations of gustation in non‐cetacean marine mammals have been reported.
A review of the occurrence in British mammals of the major organisms of zoonotic importance
Authors: TWIGG G. I.
Published: April 2008

The occurrence of the major zoonoses in British mammals is discussed. The distribution of leptospiral serotypes across the British Isles and North–West Europe, together with the current absence of rabies, plague and other pathogenic organisms in Britain suggests conditions inimical to their maintenance in the British Isles. It is suggested that this region may represent the end of a geographical line of success for these organisms and the term ‘pathocline’ is proposed.
Wheel‐running activity: a new interpretation
Authors: MATHER JANICE G.
Published: April 2008

The wheel‐running activity of caged mammals has been misinterpreted for many years as a measure of ‘general activity’. A review of the literature and recent experimental evidence suggests that this behaviour has a far more specific function for the animal, and that its major and invaluable experimental use lies as both a field and laboratory tool for the studies of particular forms of migration. This new interpretation allows a greater understanding of the motivations underlying this widely‐monitored behaviour.

It is apparent that the nature of the response to an activity‐wheel has been greatly misunderstood for many years. The behaviour appears to be far more specific than previously thought, reflecting a type of inherent response which is not evident when activity is recorded by other methods. This report indicates that the wheel is used by a caged animal when the individual is motivated to reach an unattainable resource. This results in an urge to travel, either to remove itself from the immediate area, or to search for specific resources. It is proposed that when the goal is perceptually not present, the activity wheel is a specific monitor of ‘exploratory migration’, and reflects the urge to collect information about the location of resources. It implies, therefore, that the use of the activity‐wheel as a simple measure of ‘general activity’ should cease; the major future uses of this particular activity recording device should be in the studies of the daily, ontogenetic and seasonal variation in the incidence of exploratory migration, and the influence upon it of other environ‐ mental factors, as well as a method of investigating goal‐orientation, both in the field and the laboratory. This new interpretation provides a more precise explanation of what is being measured in wheel‐running experiments, and should result in a more specific use of wheel‐activity in experimentation.
Associations between seabirds and cetaceans: a review
Authors: EVANS P. G. H.
Published: April 2008

(1) Seabird‐cetacean associations involve many genera.

(2) Some seabirds/cetaceans associate with more species than others, e.g. minke and pilot whales, Common dolphins and porpoises amongst cetaceans, and gannet & kittiwake amongst seabirds. Killer whale, sperm whale, shag and cormorant have not been recorded in associations, in the N.E. Atlantic.

(3) All observed associations would be predicted on the basis of the diets of the associated species.

(4) Most associations are probably opportunistic or incidental, as a result of concentration of shared prey.

(5) Some species, however, may associate more regularly, e.g. minke & pilot whales, Common dolphin and porpoise amongst cetaceans and gannet amongst seabirds. It is not possible to say which derives benefit from the association, but on theoretical grounds it is most likely to be the seabird.

(6) Minke and pilot whales may drive towards the surface food normally out of reach of seabirds, particularly Procellariformes. Common dolphins feed by herding fast‐moving fish shoals into tight groups which will be a more concentrated food source for diving sea‐birds, such as gannets, and make food more accessible to other species. Porpoises may achieve the same result with inshore shoals of sprats and sand eels, particularly for auks and kittiwakes, and terns.
Some factors influencing the distribution of otters (Lutra lutra)
Authors: MACDONALD S. M. , MASON C. F.
Published: April 2008

The number of sites at which evidence of otters was found and the total number of signs were recorded on fifty 5‐km stretches of rivers in Wales and the West Midlands of England. Data were collected on fifteen parameters of habitat considered to be of importance to otters and subjected to a multivariate analysis.

Evidence of otters was found at thirty‐four stretches. The distribution of sites and signs was correlated with the presence of potential holts (of which 107 were found) and with mature sycamore and ash trees. The measured variables accounted for 52 5% of the overall variation in otter sites and 60 2% of the variation in otter signs. The conservation of otters is discussed in light of the results of the analysis.
The otter (Lutra lutra L.) in Spain
Authors: ELLIOT K. M.
Published: April 2008

In a survey of Spain during June 1981, signs of otters were found at seventy (40%) of the 176 stations investigated. Otters were mainly concentrated in the mountainous north and north‐west and in the plains and mountains of the south‐west. Water pollution appears to be an important limiting factor in some areas.
The otter (Lutra lutra) in Tunisia
Authors: MACDONALD S. M. , MASON C. F.
Published: April 2008

The otter is common and widespread in northern Tunisia and the Oued Medjerda effectively represents a southern limit for the species. The distribution of otters is largely coincident with dense bankside cover, provided mainly by Nerium oleander. Rivers south of the O. Medjerda offer little shelter for the animals.
Activity patterns of the Red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)
Authors: TONKIN J. M.
Published: April 2008

Daily and seasonal patterns of free‐ranging Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) were studied by means of radiotracking. On a seasonal basis, two distinct daily activity rhythms were exhibited. In winter, the squirrels had a short, uninterrupted active phase which is probably an adaptation for conserving energy by minimizing the period of heat loss. In summer, the active phase was more than twice as long as in winter, and was usually broken by a rest period. The activity patterns at the equinoxes were intermediate between summer and winter patterns.

In summer, the biphasic pattern of daily activity of individuals gave rise to a trend towards bimodality in the activity pattern of the population as a whole, although the rest periods and second active periods of different squirrels were not synchronized. Onset of daily activity was associated with daybreak, but cessation occurred well before nightfall.

Superimposed onto the basic seasonal patterns of activity were the effects of feeding requirements, foraging accounting for a mean of 82% of a month's activity. As well as immediate nutritional requirements, the habit of scatter‐hoarding mast had a marked influence on the duration of foraging, causing a peak in activity in September. Although throughout most of the year the foraging time appeared to influence the duration of activity, active time in late winter appeared to be self‐determining, causing squirrels to lose body‐weight rather than to extend the foraging period. Other factors affecting activity patterns are discussed.
Diseases of squirrels in Britain
Authors: KEYMER I. F.
Published: April 2008

Forty Red (Sciurus vulgaris) and thirty‐five Grey squirrels (S. carolinensis) have been subjected to full post‐mortem examinations since 1967. The results, together with other reports of disease in Britain affecting free‐living squirrels, are discussed. There appears to be a higher incidence of disease in Reds than in Greys.

Parapoxvirus infection, which closely resembles contagious pustular dermatitis or orf of sheep, appears to be common in Reds in Norfolk, but does not appear to occur in Grey squirrels. Coccidiosis (Eimeria sciurorum infection) is common in Reds. Both species of squirrels frequently harbour Eimeria spp. parasites in the intestinal tract. Other protozoa that occur include haemogregarines (probably Hepatozoon sp.) and Toxoplasma. Helminths are relatively uncommon, but Enterobius spp. were found in the gut of Reds. Both species of squirrels are commonly infested with fleas, mainly Monopsyllus sciurorum in Reds and Orchopeas howardi in Greys. Lice, especially Neohaematopinus sciuri, and ticks (Ixodes ricinus) also occur in both species.

In spite of reports to the contrary, there is no proof that either species of squirrels contract mange caused by Sarcoptes mites. It is likely that alopecia due to ectoparasitism in both species and parapoxvirus infection in Reds have been mistaken for mange. Fungal and bacterial infections appear to be unusual, although Pasteurella multocida infection was diagnosed in a Red and Yersinia enterocolitica in a Grey squirrel.
Prospects for the chemical control of reproduction in the Grey squirrel
Authors: JOHNSON ELIZABETH , TAIT A. J.
Published: April 2008

A review of the successes and failures of chemosterilization procedures, as applied to a variety of mammalian pest species, is given. Oestrogens and progestins act to prevent ovulation in the female mammal; the frequency of dosing required makes them impractical for use with many species, although they have provided a viable method of contraception for feral cats. Prostaglandins which act to terminate pregnancy might prove more useful, but have so far only been used in humans and domestic animals. Control of male fertility depends either on the inhibition of spermatogenesis or on methods to render the spermatozoa infertile. The actions of the antiandrogen, cyproterone acetate, and chlorohydrin and 6‐chloro‐6‐deoxy sugars are discussed. Preliminary data on the action of prostaglandin F2α and cyproterone acetate on the Grey squirrel are presented.
The distribution and status of large mammals in Benin
Authors: SAYER J. A. , GREEN A. A.
Published: April 2008

Records of the occurrence of larger mammals in Benin for the period 1974—79 are summarized. Quarter degree square distribution maps are given for the more conspicuous species. Abundant populations of savanna mammals exist in the Pendjari and ‘W’ National Parks and adjoining hunting reserves in the north. Programmes to eradicate trypanosomiasis and onchocerciasis will lead to increased agricultural development and a consequent loss of savanna wildlife outside these parks and reserves. There are no effectively protected areas in the forested south and uncontrolled logging followed by agricultural development threatens all forest mammals.
The large mammals of Central Spain. An introductory view
Authors: TELLERÍ JOSÉ LUIS , SÁEZ‐ROYUELA CARLOS
Published: April 2008

In this paper, the characteristics of the community of large mammals in the Province of Burgos (Old Castile, Spain) are evaluated by means of a method of census based on the battues carried out by two parties of hunters specializing in big game. The exhaustive character of the battues guarantees reliable results (Table 1). The historic evolution of these populations is also studied (Fig. 1).

On the other hand, considering predator‐prey relations, the community in question is clearly favourable to the survival of the wolf.
Facts from faeces
Authors: PUTMAN R. J.
Published: April 2008

For any frustrated field‐mammalogists seeking observational data on their elusive study animals, dung may represent the most readily‐available and easily‐collected source of information upon which they may fall back in despair. Yet it is surprising how much ecological information may be deduced from an analysis of faecal depositions. This present article reviews some of the current methods available to the mammalogist for ecological detection from dung and some of the ecological areas in which it may offer information.
Homosexual behaviour and female‐male mounting in mammals—a first survey
Authors: DAGG ANNE INNIS
Published: April 2008

Information from the literature is given on the presence or absence of homosexual behaviour and female‐male mounting in 125 species of mammals, both captive and wild. Such behaviour occurs in the male and often female young of many species soon after their birth. It is more common in young, often in play, than in adults. Adult homosexual behaviour is widespread in male and female mammals (recorded in 63 and 71 species respectively), but common in few species. In males it is most likely to be correlated with dominance and thus to occur in species with hierarchies such as terrestrial monkeys and members of the sheep and goat tribe. In females it is often correlated with sexual condition; a female in heat most often mounted another female, and one in heat was next most likely to be mounted by another female. Anoestral females rarely mounted other anoestral females. Females of 43 species mounted males, which often excited them sexually. Captive mammals tended to mount animals of the same sex more often than did wild ones when comparative data were available. Domestic animals also mounted more man did wild ones, with several exceptions. Some phylogenetic groups of animals displayed similar degrees of homosexual mounting, but there was often considerable variation between closely related species. Nor could homosexual mounting be always correlated with the social structure of a group. The four reasons for, or contexts of, homosexual and female‐male mountings were social play (in 34 species), aggression (19 species), sexual excitement (36 species), and physical contact—non‐play (30 species). This last category included a state of tension, getting attention, greeting, grooming, caressing, reassurance and appeasement. There was some overlap between categories. Homosexual pair‐bonds occur in captive mammals and have been observed throughout the year in non‐captive female Japanese monkeys.
A survey of intraspecific predation within the class Mammalia
Authors: POLIS GARY A. , MYERS CHRISTOPHER A. , HESS WILLIAM R.
Published: April 2008

The occurrence of cannibalism in mammals was studied during a general review of cannibalism (Polis, 1981). In total, there were 146 references documenting intraspecific predation in 75 species of mammals distributed between seven orders. Of these references, 138 refer to cannibalism whereas eight studies refer to intraspecific killing unaccompanied by cannibalism. Of the papers that specified the identity of both the predator and the prey, approximately 80% referred to infanticide (including cannibalism). It appears that infanticide often functions as part of a reproductive strategy. Juveniles and adults are occasional intraspecific prey for some species of Insectivora, Chiroptera, Primates, Lagomorpha, Rodentia, Carnivora, and Artio‐dactyla. Cannibalism was best documented for the carnivores, rodents and primates. In general, cannibalism often occurs during normal predatory activities and is a function of low food availability, environmental stress, and a high density of conspecifics.
The ecology of the golden mole Amblysomus hottentotus
Authors: KUYPER M. A.
Published: April 2008

The Hottentot golden mole Amblysomus hottentotus is a small, blind, burrowing insectivore of solitary habit. It lives in a wide climatic range of terrestrial habitats from sea‐level to 3300 metres in soil temperatures ranging from 0–8d̀C to 32d̀C. Morphological, physiological and behavioural studies were carried out on Amblysomus caught at various altitudes in Natal, South Africa.
The mammals of the Mongolian People's Republic
Authors: MALLON D. P.
Published: April 2008

The mammals of the Mongolian People's Republic are reviewed, their current status and distribution are summarized and distribution maps are provided.
Lick use by large herbivores: a review of benefits and banes of soil consumption
Authors: KREULEN D.A.
Published: April 2008

It has been suggested that soil ingestion in herbivores provides an extra source of essential minerals. The present paper is a follow‐up to this theory, intended to show that other soil properties, like buffering capacity and adsorption capacity, could also form major attractive reasons for soil consumption. Notably, lactic acidosis and disorders caused by forage anti‐quality components (secondary compounds etc.) might be prevented or alleviated by selective soil intake. Harmful effects of soil intake are also briefly reviewed.
Autumn‐winter energetics of Holarctic tree squirrels:a review
Authors: REYNOLDS JONATHAN C.
Published: April 2008

Similarities in general size, geometry, lifestyle, and environment mean that certain energetic constraints are common and peculiar to Holarctic tree squirrels as a group. Holarctic tree squirrels are relatively small, diurnal mammals which, in association with their food niche, maintain activity throughout the autumn‐winter period. Despite this, they exhibit no major morphological or physiological adaptations to minimize energy expenditure at low temperatures; on the contrary, both basal metabolism and conductance are higher than expected on the grounds of physical size. When they are active energy expenditure is therefore strongly influenced by effective ambient temperature for these species when active in their natural autumn‐winter environments. Nest use allows near‐basal metabolism at most natural ambient temperatures. The balance of economical inactivity against feeding rewards offset by cold exposure must therefore be a crucial aspect of the lifestyle of these squirrels.
Reinforcing the native Otter Lutra lutra population in East Anglia: an analysis of the behaviour and range development of the first release group
Authors: JEFFERIES D. J. , WAYRE P. , JESSOP R. M. , MITCHELL‐JONES A. J.
Published: April 2008

The British population of the Eurasian Otter Lutra lutra has shown a serious decline since 1957–1958. In England the surviving population is broken into small fragments which may not be viable. One way to strengthen the population to enable it to recover would be to insert breeding units into the gaps. A practical methodology using captive‐bred Otters in groups of three is described. This was tested successfully in 1983–1985 in East Anglia, with the first two release groups now breeding. The male in the 1983 group was tracked using a radio harness to be sure of survival and to monitor behaviour and use the environment. Data were obtained on die development of a home range in the new environment. Also, useful information was gathered on swimming and hunting speeds, time of emergence, distance travelled each night, activity periods and time spent in each habitat. This behaviour is compared to that of previously tracked wild Otters in Scotland. The very close similarity of many features is encouraging and results may be taken as indicative of the behaviour of wild Otters in lowland Britain.
Feral cattle of Swona, Orkney Islands
Authors: HALL S. J. G. , MOORE G. F.
Published: April 2008

The feral cattle, currently numbering 33, which inhabit the Orkney island of Swona, are described. Their behaviour while foraging for seaweed is compared with that of sheep, and aspects of their social behaviour and population structure are compared with what has been observed among the Chillingham white cattle.
Review of winter trophic relations of soricine shrews
Authors: AITCHISON C. W.
Published: April 2008

This paper attempts to review all those factors that affect the winter trophic relations of soricines in northern, Holarctic areas, from physiological and ecological aspects to prey and predators. Winter is generally a time of food scarcity and low temperatures, often accompanied by snow cover. Winter shrews are characterized by decreased metabolic rates, longer periods in the nest, short foraging periods and the subsequent decreased need to forage. In smaller species the diet generally consists of epigean fauna, while in larger species hypogean fauna is also included, the proportions of which vary seasonally. In areas of snow cover their diets are derived from the subnivean fauna, i.e. soil and litter fauna, overwintering on the soil surface, and consist of many insects, especially beetles, arachnids, small vertebrates and carrion. Their predators include owls and, to a lesser extent, weasels and foxes.
Distribution and current status of Sika Deer, Cervus nippon, in Great Britain
Authors: RATCLIFFE P. R.
Published: April 2008

Introduced populations of Sika Deer are established in many parts of Britain and some, particularly in Scotland, are expanding their range rapidly. The taxonomy of Sika Deer and the timing and location of introductions is reviewed and current information on their range expansion and hybridization with Red Deer is provided. The current state of our knowledge of population parameters is insufficient to provide the basis for sound management in the future. The introduction of Sika Deer to Red Deer areas is considered to be irresponsible because of the likelihood of hybridization and the threat to the genetic integrity of Red Deer.
Microparasites of wild small mammals
Authors: NOWELL F. , HEALING T. D.
Published: April 2008

Little is known of the biology of the majority of microparasites except for those of medical or veterinary importance. It is suggested that techniques already developed for identification and quantification of these important parasites should be modified as necessary and extended to the study of other microparasites. Isolation and maintenance of microparasites in laboratory‐maintained hosts will improve these diagnostic techniques and will also allow investigation of the biology of the parasites under controlled conditions. The value of laboratory‐based experiments as an adjunct to ecological studies is emphasized. Problems of interpretation are indicated.
Studies on the prevalence of haematozoa of British bats
Authors: GARDNER R. A. , MOLYNEUX D. H. , STEBBINGS R. E.
Published: April 2008

Bloodfilms were collected from 491 bats representing 12 of the 15 species of British bats, from a number of sites in England and Scotland, and examined for haematozoa. Trypanosoma (Schizotrypanum) sp. were found in Pipistrelluspipistrellus, Nyctalus noctula, N. leisleri, Eptesicus serotinus and Myotis brandtii, and Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) incertum was found in P. pipistrellus. Both subgenera of trypanosomes appear to be transmitted by the bat bug Cimex pipistrelli. Gametocytes of the haemoproteid Poly‐chromophilus murinus were found in one‐third of Myotis daubentonii examined, and stages of the parasite were found in the vector, the wingless blood‐sucking fly, Nycteribia kolenatii, collected from these bats. The piroplasm Babesia vesperuginis was found in the blood of P. pipistrellus and Myotis mystacinus, and was the only parasite to show evidence of pathogenicity to bats.
Parasite survival and variability in host immune responsiveness
Authors: WAKELIN D.
Published: April 2008

Immune responses are considered to play an important role in the regulation of parasite populations, by virtue of their influences upon the establishment, development, survival and reproduction of parasites in individual hosts. The capacity of hosts to generate and express effective responses is genetically determined and, therefore, variable in a genetically heterogeneous population. Survival of parasites is enhanced when the host's capacity is reduced or absent. Low‐ or non‐responder hosts may play an important part in maintaining parasite population levels. Data derived from field or experimental studies of infections in small mammals are used to illustrate the relationships between genetics, immunity and parasite survival.
Density and distribution of Badgers in south‐west England–a predictive model
Authors: THORNTON PENNY S.
Published: April 2008

This paper describes a predictive model for estimating the density and distribution of Badger social groups, in the south‐west of England, based on habitat characteristics. Main sett density was used as an index of Badger social group density, and a preliminary study to define the different types of Badger sett observed in the field and to establish a relationship between main sett density and social group density is also described. The habitat characteristics that emerged as having the most influence on Badger social group density were the ‘diggability’ of the soils, the topography of the area, altitude, the length of hedgerows and the number of woodland units greater than 1 ha. The application of the model is briefly discussed.
Variation in resource presence, utilization and reproductive success within a population of European Badgers (Meles meles)
Authors: HOFER H.
Published: April 2008

Variation in resource presence and resource utilization was investigated in a high density population of Badgers in Wytham Woods, Oxfordshire. Earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris) contributed the bulk of the diet. Differences between the diet of seven Badger groups were considerable and were most extreme during the summer. Earthworm biomass per habitat remained constant over at least 8 years, while biomass per group territory declined. Pasture fields and mature deciduous woodland (excluding beech‐wood) constituted worm‐rich, high quality, feeding areas. The combined relative proportion of the area of both habitats per group territory was a good predictor of total group consumption of earthworms and of the reproductive output per group, as measured by the number of independent young, while the dispersion of the two habitats determined the configuration of territories.
Animal behaviour at electric fences and the implications for management
Authors: McKILLOP I. G. , SIBLY R. M.
Published: April 2008

Electric fences are cheaper than conventional fences and, because of this, they are being used increasingly to manage mammals. Initial investigatory behaviour at the fence, defensive reactions immediately after shock, and long‐term modifications in behaviour as a result of learning, have been reviewed. This paper (i) suggests that designs of electric fences should take account of animal behaviour and (ii) reviews management solutions.
The family Erinaceidae: a synthesis of its taxonomy, phylogeny, ecology and zoogeography
Authors: CORBET G. B.
Published: April 2008

All species and higher taxa of Recent Erinaceidae are diagnosed, the character‐states most useful in classification are tabulated and the most probable phylogenies presented. Four African species are included in the genusAtelerix.The desert‐adaptedParaechinusis believed to be more closely related toAtelerixthan to the convergentHemiechinus.The ranges of all species are mapped, with emphasis upon areas of parapatry and sympatry. Marginal localities are listed if they are not derived from previously published maps. All nominal fossil species that have been allocated to Recent genera are listed. Ecological data relevant to the interpretations of species boundaries, e.g. relating to diet and habitat, are summarized, and the factors likely to determine the species boundaries are reviewed.
The American Mink Mustela vison in Ireland
Authors: SMAL C. M.
Published: April 2008

The American Mink Mustela vison was first introduced into Ireland in 1951 for commercial fur–farming and has successfully established itself in the wild from escaped stock. Initial concentrations of feral populations were in the north, north–west and in the Midlands, with scattered introductions in the south–west of the country. Data on mink farming and the species' present distribution were gathered from all available sources, including a survey conducted during 1984–1986. The feral mink is now widespread throughout the island with the exception of major portions of western counties, which it is currently colonizing. Populations are stabilizing in established zones and, although there is a need for control measures in certain situations, the overall threat to the limited Irish fauna does not appear as great as initially feared. The spread of the American Mink in other European countries is reviewed briefly.
The adaptive significance of reproductive delay phenomena in some South African Microchiroptera
Authors: BERNARD R. T. F.
Published: April 2008

In the last 8 years, examples of prolonged sperm storage, delayed implantation and retarded embryonic development have been reported from some South temperate Old World Microchiroptera. It is suggested that in the species concerned, hibernation or prolonged periods of hypothermia restrict all reproductive processes to the summer months (September to April) and that this 8‐month period is too short to accommodate a ‘typical’ microchiropteran reproductive cycle. Consequently some form of reproductive adaptation, in which a period of delay occurs in the reproductive cycle, is one requirement for hibernating bats in subtropical and temperate latitudes. The inclusion of a period of reproductive delay during winter effectively lengthens the reproductive cycle and allows gametogenesis to be initiated in the middle of one summer, and parturition to occur early the following summer. It is suggested that the type of reproductive delay evolved by a species may be related to its pattern of winter activity.

It is suggested that in the hibernating members of the Vespertilionidae and Rhinolophidae the typical tropical reproductive strategy of seasonal monoestry has been modified by the inclusion of a period of reproductive delay. The principal effect of this is to lengthen die reproductive cycle so that gametogenesis is initiated in the middle of one summer, and parturition and lactation occur during the following summer, when food is abundant. The diree reproductive delay phenomena recorded in Microchiroptera from Soudi Africa should be regarded as different ways of lengthening the reproductive cycle, possibly determined by the winter activity of the species. Although these ideas are based on observations of the reproduction of African bats, they can equally be used to explain die evolution of reproductive delays in north temperate bats.
Distribution and status of White‐lipped Deer (Cervus albirostris) in the Qinghai‐Xizang (Tibet) Plateau, China
Authors: KAJI KOICHI , OHTAISHI NORIYUKI , MIURA SHINGO , WU JIAYAN
Published: April 2008

We made a preliminary survey of the present status and ecology of the White‐lipped Deer (Cervus albirostris) in the upper Huang He and Chang Jiang River regions of China. Eight mixed herds, ranging in size from 5 to 46 animals each, were observed. The deer lived from the rhododendron scrub just above the spruce forests to alpine grasslands, ranging in altitudes from 4000 to 5000 m. The peak of the rut occurred in October, when breeding herds were composed of a few large stags and hinds. The pasturing of domestic animals in the area influences not only the spatial distribution of the deer, but also the timing of seasonal shifts. The main distribution of the deer is in western Sichuan Province and some scattered populations in Qinghai Province are endangered. The species could survive, given adequate protection.
The genus Macaca: a review of taxonomy and evolution
Authors: FA JOHN E.
Published: April 2008

This paper is a compilation of information on the taxonomy and evolution of the genus Macaca. The various classifications of the macaques since 1916 are provided. Descriptions of all known extant species and general characteristics of each species group are reviewed, and hybridization between the different species discussed. Details are given of the geographic distribution of all species, including the habitats utilized. The available information on the fossil record is collated and this is followed by a discussion of the current interpretations of distributions, in relation to evolution and dispersal of the genus. The paper ends with a synopsis and conclusions which point out areas where further research is needed.
The zoogeography of the mammal fauna of southern Arabia
Authors: DELANY M. J.
Published: April 2008

The southern Arabian fauna is recognized as occupying a montane coastal strip of Saudi Arabia parallel to the Red Sea from Taif southwards, the Yemens and Oman. Brief descriptions of the physical, climatic and vegetational features of the region are provided. Most of the mammal species recorded from the area are assigned to one of the following zoogeographical categories: Palaearctic, Saharo‐Sindian, Afrotropical plus Palaearctic, Afrotropical and Oriental. Most species are Afrotropical with a substantial number Saharo‐Sindian. Palaearctic and more ubiquitous elements are well represented. Examination of species restricted to the region shows Afrotropical species to be most numerous in the Yemens followed by Saudi Arabia. Oman has the best representation of Palaearctic species. There is appreciable endemism within the region. The history of the region and surrounding area has been examined for the past 100 000 years. For much of this time the Arabian Peninsula has experienced considerable aridity apart from about 35000‐17 000 bp and 11000‐6000 bp. World sea levels have fluctuated, probably between‐105 and‐175 m below present levels. Such falls would have facilitated narrow water barriers or land connections between Africa and Arabia. This is supported by historical studies on the palaeofauna, particularly of Israel, which indicate periods of faunal movement into the area from Africa and elsewhere. The significance of the faunal structure is discussed in the light of the historical information. There have probably been influxes into southern Arabia from Africa and the north at times of low sea levels; the penetration of some Afrotropical elements has probably also occurred via Sinai. Penetrations from the west include some of the more widespread species as well as most of the Saharo‐Sindian elements. These conclusions find broad support from the biogeography of birds, freshwater fish, butterflies and plants.
Home‐range analysis using radio‐tracking data–a review of problems and techniques particularly as applied to the study of mammals
Authors: HARRIS S. , CRESSWELL W. J. , FORDE P. G. , TREWHELLA W. J. , WOOLLARD T. , WRAY S.
Published: April 2008

Ninety‐three papers on home‐range analysis using radio‐tracking data were reviewed; these papers were found in a literature search of 18 of the major journals likely to include such papers, published in the 5‐year period to the end of 1988. The review showed that even 25 years after the first radio‐tracking studies, in the majority of papers there was still insufficient attention given to accurate and sufficient data collection, and to using appropriate and sophisticated analytical techniques to assess home‐range size and configuration. This paper is designed to help people undertaking a radio‐tracking study to avoid some of the most common pitfalls. It is based on some of the problems we have experienced studying several species of larger mammals. We use our collective experience to produce a guide on how to plan a radio‐tracking study, to highlight some of the potential problems in designing the study and collecting the data, and to identify some of the difficulties that may be encountered during the analytical stages. The advantages and disadvantages of the most frequently used methods of home‐range analysis are discussed and methods for determining the minimum number of radio‐fixes and techniques for adjusting inadequate sample sizes are described, as are the problems that may be caused by autocorrelated data.
A review of the distribution of all species of deer (Tragulidae, Moschidae and Cervidae) in China
Authors: OHTAISHI NORIYUKI , GAO YAOTING
Published: April 2008

Twenty‐one species of deer occur in China: one species of Tragulidae, three species of Moschidae and 17 species of Cervidae. The foundation of this review is the research conducted in the early 1940s by Allen, combined with the research and investigation by the authors and other Chinese specialists since that time. This paper focuses on the tentative distribution of these species of deer for future research efforts.