Abstract
The aim of this study was to contribute to the broader knowledge of the biology of invasive species - the American mink (Neovison vison) and to gain basic information about its arrival and activity in the area of Havlíčkův Brod. American mink started emerging on the river Sázava near Havlíčkův Brod at the turn of the 1980's.
First animals to be radio-tracked were caught in 2004. Altogether six individuals were followed until 2012, three of them were males and three females.
Significant sex-dependent differences in behaviour were discovered during the study. Males and females differ in the size of their home ranges, with male ranges being larger.
Further difference lies in activity during the day and night. Male activity is directed mostly to the night hours, whereas females are active during both day and night.
Very distinctive difference can be observed in breeding season (March, April), when males' home ranges practically disintegrate and the individuals use much larger areas. During this time, males visit home ranges of several females and are able to travel long distances.
Females usually stay within their hame ranges during breeding season.