Structural changes in family areas of the steppe marmot (Marmota bobak) under succession in reserve areas

The structure and development of marmot family areas were studied in conditions of the long-term decline in animal abundance caused by the succession of vegetation in the Striltsivsky Steppe (Luhansk Oblast) after the area has been protected from human use. The size of family area, effective area, average length of the paths and burrow number were used as assessment criteria. The majority of family areas in the reserve belongs to unstable type with low animal abundance, unstable structure, small area and burrow numbers. Development stages of the family areas were distinguished as follows: steady decline of the family group size, changes in the area structure, fragmentation and disappearance.

Abstract licence: CC BY-SA

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