Ecology and space use in a relict population of the European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) at the north-western edge of its distribution range
2008
Abstract
The study is focused on demography and space use in an isolated population of European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) living on the periphery of its distribution range. Data were collected during the three year period using standard mark-recapture method combined with frequent observations in a defined 2 ha area of the golf range of Olšová Vrata, 5 km south-east of Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic.
Results seems to be consistent with data from other European ground squirrel populations, but it should be pointed out that the demographical characteristics observed are usually close to upper limiting (mortality, body mass) or lower limiting values (density, survival).