Seasonal changes in energy economy of farmed polecat as evaluated by body weight, food intake and behavioural strategy.

摘要: An analysis of seasonal changes in energy budget the farmed polecat (Mustela putorius) was performed subarctic climate. Cyclical variations were found body weight male polecats from maximum values February (2.1 kg) to minimum June–July (1.5 kg). There only minor females. a direct relationship between and voluntary intake on one hand (r=0.89) an inverse locomotor activity (r=−0.88) other hand. Energy significantly (p<0.05) higher during winter (224 kcal/animal/day) than summer (142 kcal/animal/day). Total time spent outside nest at its months (60 min/day). The results suggest that polecats, absolute food induce weight. Seasonal seem be less important balance regulation. fact females showed variation supports role sexual hormones control