Feeding habits and trophic niche overlap of two sympatric mustelidae, the polecatMustela putorius and the beech martenMartes foina

摘要: The diets of the polecatMustela putorius (Linnaeus, 1758) and beech martenMartes foina (Erxleben, 1777) in Luxembourg were investigated by using faecal analysis determination gut contents. Data polecat (121 scats 16 guts) collected around country where populations this species have been sharply declining over past decades. 112 more common widespread marten those areas both mustehds known to be present. Standard techniques applied for analysing data. In winter, small mammals, especially rodents, most abundant food species. Amphibians dominated summer diet whereas fruits important resource during that season. pattern partitioning between is based on use mammals. niche overlap items however limited appears only winter. adaptation allowing alternative sources might avoid competition food.