Population performance of generalist and specialist rodents along habitat gradients

摘要: Population performance along habitat gradients is predicted to differ among species that in their degree of specialization. We compared a specialized rodent (the eastern chipmunk, Tamias striatus) with generalist white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus) occurs across wider range habitats. Populations were seasonally livetrapped on 10 small forested sites every 2 weeks for 4 years. Linear regressions used relate density, residency, and reproduction microhabitat developed by hierarchical factor analysis vegetation variables. Densities both related complexity gradient. Density variability duration residency P. leucopus fewer variables than T. striatus. Associations densities varied more years those Over-winter survival reproductive activity striatus only. performan...