Effect of high density on the short term Calomys musculinus spacing behaviour: A fencing experiment

摘要: We studied the short term spacing behavioural responses of corn mice (Calomys musculinus) with regard to population density in four 0.25 ha enclosures (two control and two experimental) 2007 breeding season. The goal this research was test hypothesis that behaviour only operates among C. musculinus adult females. estimated 207 home ranges study: 1) range size overlap degree males females relation density; 2) settlement distances juveniles centre activity their mothers proportion between them density. found adults were determined by sex At high had significant smaller more exclusive ranges, might reflect induced territoriality derived from social restrictions. Female sizes remained similar irrespective density, they kept both experimental enclosures. Thus, maintained territories independent values. conclude it could have a role regulating abundances limiting number acquire spaces.