Long distance field crossings by hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) in fragmented landscapes

摘要: The hazel dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius) is an arboreal species with suspected limited capabilities of moving over open ground. To date, however, only one study has investigated gap crossing in experimental manner. We here report the results empirical assessment dormice by means a translocation study. translocated 12 dormice, 10 completely isolated patches and 2 hedgerow. Our show how, at least under conditions homing, may abandon forest areas cross fields (with grass or mowed) travelling up to 106 m. In most cases was relatively quick (concluded within night) but case it lasted several days. our experiment suggest that stepping stone approach connectivity be possible management strategy where not implement continuous network hedgerows.