Habitat Selection by an Insectivorous Rodent: Patterns and Mechanisms across Multiple Scales

摘要: Patterns of habitat selection by small mammals reflect variation in availability resources at a range spatial and temporal scales. I investigated use northern grasshopper mice ( Onychomys leucogaster ) shortgrass prairie related the patterns to distribution vegetation substrate arthropod prey. used powder tracking document microhabitats live-trapping estimate abundance on sites with different soil types amounts shrub cover (macrohabitats). At all scales examined, disturbances (primarily pocket gopher mounds) burrows more than expected based these microhabitats, but showed no affinity for large shrubs. Furthermore, movement suggested that concentrated activities areas high densities mounds burrows. Insect prey were numerous other generally abundant trapping where captured, especially spring early summer. Mounds provide arthropods access subterranean refuges, concentration accessibility prey, thus, may explain intensive mice. Microhabitat variables associated better predictors population density was macrohabitat, which predictability insect Although local best explained suitable foraging microhabitat, relationship between edaphic characteristics suggests it be difficult separate roles microhabitat macrohabitat this wide-ranging species.