Should diet be based on biomass? Importance of larger prey to the American marten

摘要: Most research on diet of the American marten (Martes americana) has concluded that based percentage frequency occurrence, small mammals such as voles (Arvicoli- nae) are primary prey items. We investigated in New Brunswick by occurrence and also caloric intake, which we feel better rep- resents importance items diet. Our results reflected those from previous research; comprised 45% (26.4% Murinae 15.8% Sorex spp.), with ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus), spruce (Canachites canadensis), red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus), flying (Glaucomys_sabrinus), snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) comprising 31% However, when considering each item using minimum estimates, hare, grouse, approximately 95% total calories consumed. On our study area, where large available, 10 years track indices for marten, 5 trap data over a 1 0-year peri- od indicated correlation larger increasing abundance following year, but was related inversely small-mammal same or year. suggest should change understanding foraging strat- egy, habitat quality, population modeling centered previously mam- mals species.