Mapping an elusive arboreal rodent: combining nocturnal acoustic surveys and citizen science data extends the known distribution of the edible dormouse (Glis glis) in the Czech Republic

摘要: Abstract Surveying mammals is always a challenge for field biologists. When those are nocturnal and mostly arboreal, as in the case of dormice (Gliridae), task proves even more difficult. During summers 2015 2016 we carried out national survey edible dormouse (Glis glis) distribution Czech Republic. Twenty-one trained surveyors conducted acoustic surveys 640 mapping squares (a 11.2 x 12 km grid) presence typical loud squeaks churring calls. Additionally, published articles newspapers magazines, radio interviews to raise awareness among public invite them contribute their own observations, commonly inhabit people’s homes. This led over 360 which 237 belonged were precisely georeferenced. The detected 175 1830 surveyed sites. data from combined, was 192 squares. previous collection period, 1950–2011, only 137 Our study substantially extends known species, including several isolated populations. It also confirms healthy populations NW E country validates new species model. Thanks its characteristic night calls, show that surveying very efficient tool suggest use whenever there need distributional data. In addition, citizen science have great potential supplement this but on cannot replace targeted by wildlife Thus, our recommendation records supplementary source, unless considerable effort devoted into raising about species.