IVth International Conference on Dormice (Rodentia, Gliridae)

POPULATION DYNAMICS OF DORMOUSE SPECIES IN HUNGARY

Bakó, B., Kosztra, B. & Nagy, J.

Gödöllo Univ. of Agric. Sci., Dept of Zoology and Ecology, H - 2103 Gödöllo, Páter K. u. 1. Hungary, e- mail: bakobo@rkt.gau.hu

Data dating back to 1851 on Hungary`s three dormouse species (Muscardinus avellanarius, Myoxus glis, Dryomys nitedula) are gathered in the Hungarian Natural History Museum. Until 1995 neither collection data have been analyzed, nor researches have been conducted on this genus. Since 1995 we collected and analyzed Natural History Museum data. The same year field study of the three species began at the Department of Zoology and Ecology in the Gödöllo University of Agricultural Sciences. Field data were collected from 12 localities in Hungary. In Naszaly region, which provides habitat for all three species, data were taken with a monthly regularity.

Since 1851 124 specimens of Muscardinus avellanarius, 76 specimens of Myoxus glis, 56 specimens of Dryomys nitedula have been collected in Natural History Museum. From 1995 to May 1999 data were taken from 134 specimens of Muscardinus avellanarius, 49 specimens of Myoxus glis and 41 specimens of Dryomys nitedula on the field.

Average body measures were calculated by analyzing both collection and field data. Yearly, monthly averages of body weight were calculated as well as averages of sexes. In Naszaly region frequency of being captured was examined according to sex and months. If sample size necessary for a specified level of accuracy we estimated population size. Rates of recaptures were examined on species, sex and yearly bases.

Before Abstracts