bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractThis 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

AbstractIntroduced 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

AbstractLittle 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

AbstractBloodfilms 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

AbstractImmune 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

AbstractThis 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

AbstractVariation 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

AbstractElectric 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

AbstractAll 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

AbstractThe 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

ABSTRACTIn 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.SUMMARYIt 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

ABSTRACTWe 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

ABSTRACTThis 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

ABSTRACTThe 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

AbstractNinety‐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

AbstractTwenty‐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.
Comparison and quantification of carnivore diet by faecal analysis: a critique, with recommendations, based on a study of the Fox Vulpes vulpes
Authors: REYNOLDS JONATHAN C. , AEBISCHER NICHOLAS J. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractFailure to address many of the difficulties inherent in the analysis of carnivore faeces has hitherto limited the value of this technique in comparing carnivore diets or quantifying carnivore food consumption. In this review, major problems are discussed, and improved procedures designed to overcome them are recommended.The principal improvements recommended for laboratory procedures address the microscopic fraction of faeces, which cannot be analysed visually. This fraction may be derived from a variety of sources, leading to bias in previous techniques, particularly with regard to the importance of earthworms and birds. Attention to the microscopic fraction is necessary for correct comparison or quantitative determination of diet.Particular attention is given to statistical procedures which quantify the errors that arise in collection of samples, or during analysis. Clear statement of such errors will lead to greater comparability between studies. The procedures recommended here define the limits to accuracy in relation to sample size, total faecal production, and laboratory methods. In conjunction with adequate pilot studies, these techniques will allow more effective design of ecological studies relating to carnivore diet and food consumption.
Evolutionary origins of the mammary gland
Authors: BLACKBURN DANIEL G. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractBecause the mammary gland has no known homologue among the extant reptiles, attempts to reconstruct its evolution must focus on evidence from living mammals. Of the numerous structures that have been hypothesized to have given rise to the mammary gland, only three remain as plausible progenitors: sebaceous glands, eccrine glands and apocrine glands. Ancestral mammary glands are usually assumed to have produced a copious watery secretion like that of human eccrine sweat glands. However, in terms of anatomy, physiology, development and topographical distribution, mammary glands are more similar to apocrine and sebaceous glands than to typical eccrine glands. Nevertheless, each of the three populations of cutaneous glands exhibit specializations unlikely to be primitive for the mammary gland. The mammary gland either predated full differentiation of mammalian cutaneous glands or, more probably, evolved as a neomorphic mosaic that combined the properties of apocrine and sebaceous glands. Consequently, ancestral, prototypic lacteal glands may have had the capacity to synthesize and secrete small amounts of organic substances, as do sebaceous and apocrine glands of living mammals.
The subfamilies and tribes of the family Bovidae
Authors: GENTRY A. W. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractIn this paper 112 skeletal characters in 27 living species of bovids are used in cladistic and phenetic analyses of the relationships among the tribes in the family. Consideration and modification of the cladistic analysis leads to the conclusion that bovids cluster around four foci in ascending evolutionary sequence: Boselaphini and allies; Antilopini and some Neotragini; the Caprinae; and a group of African antelopes containing Aepyceros, Alcelaphini, Reduncini and Hippotragini. This conclusion is quite closely compatible with the phenetic distance analysis of the same data, provided die latter is read as if primitive or early bovids share more similarities than divergently advanced ones and hence associate more closely. Given the primitiveness of Boselaphini and allies, the crucial finding is that Caprinae link with African antelopes and that Antilopini are more remote. Cladistic and phenetic analyses of 32 characters in 12 extinct bovid species produce similar groupings, but also throw doubt on the classification of Aepyceros, Reduncini and Hippotragini alongside Alcelaphini within a clade of African antelopes. As a result of these two sets of studies, of living and of extinct bovids, minimal alterations are proposed to the arrangement of bovid tribes. In addition, Saiga is placed in the Antilopini, and, with less assurance, Pelea in the Neotragini, Aepyceros in the Alcelaphinae, and Pantholops in the Caprinae. The contribution of the fossil record to understanding bovid evolution is considered.
Badger Meles meles setts–architecture, internal environment and function
Authors: ROPER T. J. 
Published: April 2008

AbstractBadger setts vary considerably in size, ranging from simple single‐entrance burrows to complex tunnel systems hundreds of metres long with multiple entrances and underground chambers. Data from 19 excavated setts show that main setts are larger than other setts in terms of area and volume, and contain more chambers, nests and latrines; but setts of different sizes and types are built according to the same basic architectural principles. Little is known about the environmental conditions within setts, other than that temperature and humidity are constant in parts of a sett that are at least 7 m from the nearest entrance. Setts are used for breeding and as sleeping places and refuges, but a question remains as to the functional value of large setts. It is suggested that large main setts allow members of a social group to avoid one another underground, especially when breeding. Little is known about the use of other types of sett.