Feeding habits of invasive American mink (Neovison vison) in northern Germany—potential implications for fishery and waterfowl

摘要: In order to collect ecological data of invasive American mink (Neovison vison) at a fishpond area in northeastern Germany, we conducted telemetry study which 14 were radio-tracked. During this project, 2,502 scats from radio-tracked individuals collected the period October 2003 2005. Investigated principally prey on fish, small mammals and birds (eggs inclusive), whereas amphibians, reptiles invertebrates caught infrequently. Analysing different seasons, found significant seasonal variations diet composition. spring, hunted similar amounts. summer, made up main part followed by mammals. autumn, proportion decreased, fish gained importance. This trend continued during winter period, when preyed almost exclusively fish. Amphibians, crustaceans, insects, molluscs only occasionally scat samples. Among birds, mainly Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra) Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos). Mammalian was clearly dominated water vole (Arvicola terrestris) among especially perch (Perca fluviatilis), roach (Rutilus rutilus) carp (Cyprinus carpio). Results demonstrate that is an opportunistic predator, hunts its according availability vulnerability, respectively. Despite high portions their autumn diet, economic damage caused seems be negligible. However, predation rates breeding season indicate potential negative impact waterfowl.