ECOLOGY OF THE STOAT IN NOTHOFAGUS FOREST: HOME RANGE, HABITAT USE AND DIET AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF THE BEECH MAST CYCLE

摘要: Summary: We studied the ecology of a high-density population stoats in Fiordland, New Zealand, summer and autumn 1990-91 following Nothofagus seeding 1990. Results are compared with findings from same area 1991-92, period lower stoat density. In year, minimum home ranges (revealed by radio-tracking) four females averaged 69 ha those three males 93 ha; range lengths 1.3 km 2.5 respectively. Neither difference was statistically significant. For combined sexes, average year significantly less, length shorter, than year. When we diet that two years, there were no significant differences frequencies occurrence birds or invertebrates guts. Overall, bird remains found 56% guts, 28%. Possum occurred 6% male but never females. Mice only detected when they 54% Lagomorphs more often guts during lowerdensity years (26%) (7%). Seedfall forest is synchronous periodic. Following seedfall, mouse density rises dramatically, followed sharp rise numbers. It has been suggested mice feed on abundant seed turn increase because large numbers available to them. suggest situation complex increases not mouse, also (and possibly invertebrate), densities may contribute high productivity seedfall.