bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Is the British squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris leucourus Kerr) British?
Authors: LOWE V. P. W. , GARDINER A. S. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe form of squirrel described as the British race is reputedly amongst the most easily distinguished of all the races of Sciurus vulgaris, having ear tufts and tail which bleach to a milky whiteness during the summer months. Today most squirrels in the British Isles appear to be variable in colour. The aim of this project was to discover if S. v. leucourus possessed a distinctive skull shape.Differences in skull shape due to age were insignificant in comparison with those due to sex; therefore all age classes were pooled and analysed according to sex by multivariate methods. Apart from S. v. argenteus and 5. v. mantchuricus, of which there was insufficient material, only S. v. lis demonstrated a clear‐cut discontinuity from the other subspecies in both sexes. Skulls of the Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus), the most closely related species, were distinguishable from vulgaris only in the females. The subspecies S. v. lis, on the basis of skull shape, therefore appeared to have better claims to specific rank.S. v. fuscoater was the most heterogeneous in skull shape of all the subspecies analysed. S. v. leucourus was second and overlapped the distribution of ten of the other seventeen subspecies.Of the British Museum's collection of S. v. leucourus (1879–1935) 38% had skull shapes unique to the subspecies. By contrast none of the skulls collected by the Forestry Commission (1972‐74) differed in shape from other subspecies, though 8/14 were of the light‐tailed variety. Moreover, only one of the twelve squirrels with bleached tails in the B.M. collected before 1913 was distinguishable from S. v. fuscoater on skull shape, and then only marginally. The seven skulls in the B.M. which differed most markedly from other races had skins which were indistinguishable from the red form of squirrel on the continent. Therefore S. v. leucourus may describe a sport rather than a subspecies.
Squirrel energetics
Authors: KNEE CLARE 
Published: April 2008

AbstractDirect calorimetry, respirometry and gravimetric techniques have been used independently to study the energy requirements of Grey and Fox squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis and S. niger, respectively). Studies using direct calorimetry and respirometry have produced similar values for the resting metabolic rate (RMR). In contrast to studies on other small mammal species, the average daily metabolic rate (ADMR), as measured by respirometry, has been found to be higher than RMR. RMR is closely correlated with temperature, and young squirrels require more energy per gram of body weight than adults; the effect of other variables on the metabolic energy requirements have not been studied. The experimental conditions of several gravimetric studies have differed and there is a consequent variation in the results; these data do not compare with ADMR values. The seasonal cycle in the daily duration of activity, the availability of food and the stress brought about by human disturbance and confinement in small cages, all affect the daily energy requirement of captive wild squirrels. Accurate analyses are hindered by the wide variation in results for individual squirrels and the difficulty in quantifying production and urinary losses. For these reasons, the compiled energy budgets of laboratory‐held squirrels are unlikely to represent the energy budgets of free‐living individuals or populations. Directions for future research are suggested.
Home range characteristics and correlates in tree squirrels
Authors: DON B. A. C. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractHome range patterns of squirrels in the genera Sciurus and Tamiasciurus are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on the need to use analytical techniques which are appropriate to the questions of interest, and certain weaknesses in published studies are outlined. Variation in home range size between different species, populations of the same species and individuals of the same population is discussed in relation to ecological theory and the biology of tree squirrels. Larger species do not necessarily have larger home ranges. There is an inverse relationship between home range size and population density, but its interpretation is not clear in the absence of experimental studies. Differential utilization of space within the home range is considered to be a common pattern, although it is rarely explicitly described in tree squirrel studies. In general, species of the genus Tamiasciurus defend exclusive territories, whilst those of the genus Sciurus do not. Explanations for these patterns are discussed in terms of ‘economic defendability’ and resource heterogeneity. Problems for future study are suggested.
Status of the Black muntjac, Muntiacus crinifrons, in eastern China
Authors: HO‐GEE LU , HE‐LIN SHENG 
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACTA detailed survey was conducted to show the relative abundance and current known distribution of the Black muntjac population. New information on the distribution, abundance and status of Black muntjac shows it has a small population within a restricted geographical area and habitat range, which covers an area of approximately 76, 500 km2. The relative abundance of the Black muntjac at different locations was divided into three categories, depending on the percentage composition in hunting returns; these correlated with the amount of habitat destruction and hunting pressure. With the additional consideration of reproductive performance, the Black muntjac is doing well in some suitable areas. Data from historical records, and the new discovery of an isolated population in 1980 and 1981 indicated that habitat destruction and hunting greatly reduced the range and numbers of Black muntjac in the last hundred years. The paper also suggests that the current status of the Black muntjac should be given in the Red Data Book as a rare species.
The changing status of the Brown hare (Lepus capensis L.) in Britain
Authors: TAPPER STEPHEN , PARSONS NICOLA 
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACTGame bag records are used to examine temporal and geographical changes in numbers of Brown hares. Records are taken from a survey made by the Oxford Bureau of Animal Population in 1938, which covered over 400 estates, and from the Game Conservancy's National Game Census, which has been monitoring shooting records of between 400 and 500 estates since 1961. Eastern regions of Britain had higher bags of hares than western regions in the three periods; 1891–1910, 1917–1936, 1961–1978. Hare game bags were generally high in counties with large proportions of tilled land. There was no consistent temporal trend in bags from different areas before 1938, but all areas show a considerable reduction in bags since 1961. This reduction is statistically significant. Time‐series analysis of one extended set of data did not show evidence of cyclic fluctuations.
The spread of the Bank vole Clethrionomys glareolus in Ireland
Authors: SMAL C. M. , FAIRLEY J. S. 
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACTThe discovery of the Bank vole Clethrionomys glareolus in Ireland and the published information on its spread are reviewed, and the results of a complete resurvey of its distribution, in 1982, presented. The rate of spread is extremely variable and somewhat unpredictable. Over suitable habitat—agricultural land with hedges and other cover (and sometimes mountain valleys)—spread may average 2–4.5 kmyr‐1 but can sometimes be very much slower. This might be influenced by the type and extent of hedges and of permanent pasture. High ground and moorland usually prevent spread but there have been dramatic exceptions. In 1982 Bank voles occupied probably the whole of Co. Limerick; most of Co. Kerry, with the exception of substantial parts of the mountainous peninsulas in the southwest and contiguous interior; a large part of Co. Cork, though not the south‐east and again excepting portions of the mountainous south‐west, together with a substantial strip of east Co. Tipperary, and the south‐east quarter of Co. Clare.
Population ecology and prevalence of tuberculosis in Badgers in an area of Staffordshire
Authors: CHEESEMAN C. L. , LITTLE T. W. A. , MALLINSON P. J. , PAGE R. J. C. , WILESMITH J. W. , PRITCHARD D. G. 
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACTForty‐five badgers representing five social groups were removed from an area in Staffordshire where tuberculosis had occurred in cattle. Prior to removal, the tuberculosis status of the badger population was investigated by screening faeces samples, collected at fortnightly intervals, and badger social‐group territories were determined by bait‐marking. Samples for cultural and biological examination were taken from the live badgers before euthanasia and detailed post‐mortem examination. The adult badger population density was 6‐2/km2 and Mycobacterium bovis was isolated from samples taken post mortem from eight (17‐8%) badgers. The results are reviewed in relation to previous findings.
Opportunities for reintroducing British mammals
Authors: Yalden D. W. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThere is good evidence that die three rarer British predatory mammals, the Polecat, Pine Marten and Wild Cat, owe their present restricted distribution to intense human persecution. Since this persecution has now diminished considerably, it would be feasible to attempt to reintroduce them to parts of Britain where they were exterminated last century. More important, however, would be attempts to reintroduce mammals which became totally extinct in historic times, including Aurochs, Boar, Brown Bear, Beaver and Wolf. The last of these survived the longest, and is a prime candidate for consideration. There are good ecological reasons for attempting to reintroduce it to Rhum, where the large herd of Red Deer has to be culled by one sixth each year in an attempt to reduce overgrazing and starvation. Evidence of studies in North America suggests that Wolf predation would be a far more efficient way of controlling the Red Deer; and it would be more in keeping with the management objectives of a National Nature Reserve. Similarly an attempt should be made to use genetically ‘reconstituted’ Tarpan and Aurochs to diversify the grazing, rather than domestic ponies and cattle.
Reintroducing Red Squirrels into Regent's Park
Authors: BERTRAM B. C. R. , MOLTU D.‐P. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractIn late 1984 10 young Red Squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) trapped in Scotland were released into Regent's Park and monitored by radio‐telemetry. We wanted to investigate the reasons why the introduced Grey Squirrel has replaced the Red over much of Britain; disease, aggression and ecological competition have all been suggested as the cause. The relevant guidelines governing policy on reintroductions were followed. A few months after release, the animals appear well established. They benefit from a specially‐designed hopper which allows them to feed from it but prevents Grey Squirrels doing so.
Agricultural land use effects on the winter diet of Brown Hares (Lepus europaeus Pallas) in southern Sweden
Authors: FRYLESTAM B. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe winter diet of the Brown Hare in relation to agricultural land use was studied in three different areas (pasture land; mixed farmland; monoculture land) in southern Sweden. Stomachs from Hares were collected during the hunting season (October‐December). By microanalysis of epidermal structures, the plants eaten were determined as to species, genera or families. Altogether 37 plant species/genera were recognized, 20 of which were graminids and the other herbs. Grasses were most frequent at this time of the year and were highly utilized in pasture land and mixed farmland. Among cultivated plants, wheat was most frequent in mixed farmland (20‐5oo) and in monoculture land (48‐5%). Although widely represented in mixed farmland, rape was less utilized (12‐2%), while it was highly utilized in the monoculture land (37‐8%). Hares might possibly avoid rape food in the late autumn due to its content of glucosinulates. But in the absence of alternative food, rape will be more often utilized in monocultures. In all areas wild plants were preferred to cultivated crops, indicating the importance of a rich wild flora available to Hares. The results obtained suggest a way of improving the Hare's habitat.
The ecology of helminths in populations of small mammals
Authors: KEYMER A. E. , DOBSON A. P. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractA review of field data indicates the ubiquitous occurrence of parasites in small mammal communities, with the heligmosome nematodes in many cases dominant members of the helminth fauna. The population dynamics of the heligmosomes are discussed in relation to the interpretation of patterns of infection observed in the field. Laboratory data are then used to indicate ways in which the parasites might reflect or influence the population biology of their hosts. The aim of the paper is to suggest the potential significance of parasitism for the ecology of small mammal populations.
Host diet as a determinant of parasite growth, reproduction and survival
Authors: CROMPTON D. W. T. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractChanges have been observed in the biology of protozoan and helminth parasites of small mammals during a variety of experimental nutritional manipulations ranging from deficiency in a specific nutrient to the general withholding of food from the host. Commonly observed effects include retardations in parasite growth rate, gametogenesis, fecundity, and asexual multiplication. The duration of patency and of the association of a parasite with its host have also been observed to be curtailed. The nutritional responses of parasites during host hibernation require investigation and much research will be needed to explain how perturbations in host dietary composition and intake may lead to the observed effects. Care should be exercised over applying the results from experimental studies to naturally occurring infections, but the experiments are justified because they indicate potential effects, if not their biological significance, and because causation can be determined.
Rhythmic behaviour of intestinal helminths in rodents
Authors: KERBOEUF D. , LEWIS J. W. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractIntestinal helminths exhibit two types of circadian rhythms, either involving the migration of adults worms (Hymenolepis and Syphacia) within the gut or periodic release of eggs by female worms (Aspiculuris and Heligmosomoides) to the exterior of the host to maximize transmission efficiency. By modifying the feeding regimes of rodents, there is clear evidence that these rhythmic processes are directly linked with the digestive and defaecating activities of the host with neurohormonal control mechanisms likely to be involved at least in the migratory behaviour of adult worms. Furthermore, in Heligmosomoides polygyrus rhythmic egg output appears to be dependent upon parasite age and the population density of the host and parasite. A brief reference is also made to studies on long‐term rhythms of egg output by intestinal nematodes and their effect on patterns of host faecal production.
Biology of the Polecat Mustela putorius: a literature review
Authors: BLANDFORD P. R. S. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe available literature on the biology of the European Polecat (Mustela putorius) is collated. Aspects covered are general biology and systematics, distribution, physical characteristics, variation, skeletal characteristics, habitat, general behaviour, diet and predatory behaviour, breeding, juvenile development, population structure, mortality, parasites and diseases, relations with man, and history in Britain. Notes on field signs are also included. Recent and current research on Polecats both in Great Britain and on the European continent are then reviewed and some new information is reported. An extended bibliography lists all major and many minor publications onM. putorius, together with selected references to feral Ferrets (M. furo) and Polecat‐Ferrets (M. putoriusxM.furo).
Dynamics of tuberculosis in a naturally infected Badger population
Authors: CHEESEMAN C. L. , WILESMITH J. W. , STUART F. A. , MALLINSON P. J. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe dynamics of bovine tuberculosis infection in a wild Badger population have been studied since 1981. Faeces are sampled regularly to determine the distribution of infection in the study area. Badgers in known infected social groups, plus the neighbouring groups, are periodically caught and subjected to full clinical and bacteriological examination to monitor the progression of infection within and between groups of Badgers. The interim results of this study are presented and discussed. During 5 years (1981–1985), the temporal spread of infection between social groups in the study area was slow and restricted. Some clinically affected Badgers have survived for long periods. Evidence of infection in individual Badgers indicates that pseudo‐vertical (mother to cub) transmission may be important in the maintenance of infection in the Badger population. There is also evidence of horizontal transmission by bite wounding and aerosol infection. Badger mortality due to Mycobacterium bovis infection was low, and the prevalence of infection in male Badgers is greater than in females. The data accumulated so far show no apparent relationship between Badger population density and the prevalence of M. bovis infection, nor is there any evidence to support the hypothesis that M. bovis infection acts to depress Badger population density significantly below disease‐free levels. Cattle and infected Badgers can co‐exist for long periods without the disease necessarily being transmitted to cattle.
An enquiry into the changing status of the Water Vole Arvicola terrestris in Britain
Authors: JEFFERIES D. J. , MORRIS P. A. , MULLENEUX J. E. 
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACTAn enquiry was conducted into the changing status of the Water Vole Arvicola terrestris in Britain using an analysis of the data contained in County Mammal Reports. These were supplemented by a questionnaire survey and site descriptions from the Waterways Bird Survey organized by the British Trust for Ornithology. There was close conformity between the results obtained from these differing sources. There are indications that the Water Vole population has suffered a long‐term decline this century, possibly due to adverse habitat changes. Pollution of rivers in the 1950s by organochlorine insecticides, compounded in the 1960s and ′70s by the spread of the introduced American Mink Mustela vison have apparendy exacerbated the situation in recent years. All sources agreed that predation by Mink was considered to be the most important single threat to the Water Vole population. An objective survey is required to form the basis for a conservation plan and future monitoring of the Water Vole's status.
Escaped exotic mammals in Britain
Authors: BAKER SIMON J. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe status of the 15 species of exotic mammals naturalized in Britain is briefly reviewed along with the problems they cause and the costs of control. The legislation governing the keeping of exotic mammals is discussed and an assessment is made of the number of mammals kept in Britain for purposes other than food production. These include 3 200 000 kept for experimental purposes, over 12 848 in zoos, 100 000 Mink on farms and over 11 million households with at least one pet. The results of a recent survey of animals held in Britain under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 are presented; nearly 1000 individuals of at least 76 species are held under this legislation.Between January 1970 and October 1989, 293 exotic mammals, of 39 species not normally kept as household pets, were recorded out of captivity on 127 occasions. An analysis of the sources of these exotics and their subsequent fate is presented. It is suggested that monitoring the occurrence of exotic species out of captivity provides information on which species are most likely to establish feral populations in the future. This will allow preventive measures to be planned and their efficacy to be assessed before a new exotic species becomes established.
The past history and recent decline of Badgers Meles tneles in Essex: an analysis of some of the contributory factors
Authors: SKINNER CHRISTINE , SKINNER PAUL , HARRIS STEPHEN 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe past history of the Badger in Essex is reviewed. It is shown that the population has fluctuated in the past, and that heavy gamekeeping pressure probably reduced numbers at the turn of the century, although Badgers were probably never as rare as early recorders believed. In recent years Badgers have been rare or absent in many areas of the county because they did not afford suitable sett sites, and the county as a whole is not particularly good for Badgers. Against this already low‐density Badger population, in the 20 years up to the mid‐1980s, 36 % of known setts had disappeared, with agricultural activities being the major cause of sett losses, and of the remaining setts there was a 14 % reduction in the number occupied by Badgers. Also, the modal sett size was reduced from six holes to three. Direct disturbance affected nearly a quarter of all viable setts in Essex. The significance of these findings is evaluated, and the effects of changing land use, sett disturbance, Badger digging, road deaths and sub‐lethal levels of agricultural chemicals on Badger numbers are discussed and quantified where possible. The possible effects of a continued fragmentation of the Badger population in Essex is reviewed. The need for further research on particular aspects of the problem, and the value of such data in understanding the population pressures facing the Badger elsewhere in Europe, are highlighted.
A review of Killer Whale interactions with other marine mammals: predation to co‐existence
Authors: JEFFERSON THOMAS A. , STACEY PAM J. , BAIRD ROBIN W. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractKiller Whales are well‐known as predators of other marine mammals, including the large Sperm and baleen whales. Members of all marine mammal families, except the river dolphins and manatees, have been recorded as prey of Killer Whales; attacks have been observed on 20 species of cetaceans, 14 species of pinnipeds, the Sea Otter, and the Dugong. Ecological interactions have not been systematically studied and further work may indicate that the Killer Whale is a more important predator for some populations than previously believed. Not all behavioural interactions between Killer Whales and other marine mammal species result in predation, however. Some involve ‘harassment’ by the Killer Whales, feeding by both species in the same area, porpoises playing around Killer Whales, both species apparently ‘ignoring’ each other, and even apparently unprovoked attacks on Killer Whales by sea lions. These non‐predatory interactions are relatively common. We conclude that interactions between Killer Whales and marine mammals are complex, involving many different factors that we are just beginning to understand.
The Black Rat Rattus rattus in the United Kingdom in 1989
Authors: I. TWIGG G. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractThe loss of ground by the Black Rat in the late 1950s continued through the next decade. Since then the number of site records has fluctuated and there has been less constancy in the places recording the presence of the rat. This impermanence of populations together with their small size suggests that introductions are short lived and that the species has only a tenuous foothold in the United Kingdom today. Port records show that rats are still arriving regularly by ship and it is suggested that future developments in climate and trade might further assist entry and make the environment more favourable for the Black Rat.