Demography of a Habitat Generalist, The White-Footed Mouse, in a Heterogeneous Environment

摘要: A population of white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) in southeastern Massachusetts was lived-trapped monthly five habitat types for 5 yr order to study the demography a generalist. We identified three demographic groups (two low density and one high density), which differed primarily density, adult survival, proportion males breeding, variability males. The low-density segments this were at times able achieve performance equivalent high-density segments. Several variables related linearly microhabitat gradients derived from principal components analysis 24 variables, but similar structure found different types. simple model is presented that relates environmental suitability According model, productivity, survival increase, numerical decrease, along gradient increasing suitability. Intensity intrinsic regulation also may increase with suitability, would contribute stability. hypothesize generalists such as Peromyscus leucopus, numbers are regulated stable trajectory areas show little or no poorer habitats. Furthermore, shift conditions improve decline quality. This highly flexible enable populations persist poor