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Redpath SHA, Marks NJ, Menzies FD, O'Hagan MJH, Wilson RP, Smith S, Magowan EA, McClune DW, Collins SF, McCormick CM, Scantlebury DM. Impact of test, vaccinate or remove protocol on home ranges and nightly movements of badgers a medium density population. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2592. [PMID: 36788237 PMCID: PMC9929337 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28620-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In the British Isles, the European badger (Meles meles) is thought to be the primary wildlife reservoir of bovine tuberculosis (bTB), an endemic disease in cattle. Test, vaccinate or remove ('TVR') of bTB test-positive badgers, has been suggested to be a potentially useful protocol to reduce bTB incidence in cattle. However, the practice of removing or culling badgers is controversial both for ethical reasons and because there is no consistent observed effect on bTB levels in cattle. While removing badgers reduces population density, it may also result in disruption of their social behaviour, increase their ranging, and lead to greater intra- and inter-species bTB transmission. This effect has been recorded in high badger density areas, such as in southwest England. However, little is known about how TVR affects the behaviour and movement of badgers within a medium density population, such as those that occur in Northern Ireland (NI), which the current study aimed to examine. During 2014-2017, badger ranging behaviours were examined prior to and during a TVR protocol in NI. Nightly distances travelled by 38 individuals were determined using Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements of animal tracks and GPS-enhanced dead-reckoned tracks. The latter was calculated using GPS, tri-axial accelerometer and tri-axial magnetometer data loggers attached to animals. Home range and core home range size were measured using 95% and 50% autocorrelated kernel density estimates, respectively, based on location fixes. TVR was not associated with measured increases in either distances travelled per night (mean = 3.31 ± 2.64 km) or home range size (95% mean = 1.56 ± 0.62 km2, 50% mean = 0.39 ± 0.62 km2) over the four years of study. However, following trapping, mean distances travelled per night increased by up to 44% eight days post capture. Findings differ from those observed in higher density badger populations in England, in which badger ranging increased following culling. Whilst we did not assess behaviours of individual badgers, possible reasons why no differences in home range size were observed include higher inherent 'social fluidity' in Irish populations whereby movements are less restricted by habitat saturation and/or that the numbers removed did not reach a threshold that might induce increases in ranging behaviour. Nevertheless, short-term behavioural disruption from trapping was observed, which led to significant increases in the movements of individual animals within their home range. Whether or not TVR may alter badger behaviours remains to be seen, but it would be better to utilise solutions such as oral vaccination of badgers and/or cattle as well as increased biosecurity to limit bTB transmission, which may be less likely to cause interference and thereby reduce the likelihood of bTB transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie H A Redpath
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
| | - Nikki J Marks
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
| | - Fraser D Menzies
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Belfast, BT4 3SB, Northern Ireland
| | - Maria J H O'Hagan
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Belfast, BT4 3SB, Northern Ireland
| | - Rory P Wilson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales
| | - Sinéad Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
| | - Elizabeth A Magowan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
| | - David W McClune
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland
| | - Shane F Collins
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Belfast, BT4 3SB, Northern Ireland
| | - Carl M McCormick
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, BT4 3SD, Northern Ireland
| | - D Michael Scantlebury
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens' University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland.
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2
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Maag N, Mallord JW, Burgess MD, Lüpold S, Cristinacce A, Arlettaz R, Carlotti S, Davis TM, Grendelmeier A, Orsman CJ, Riess M, Stelbrink P, Pasinelli G. Accounting for predator species identity reveals variable relationships between nest predation rate and habitat in a temperate forest songbird. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e7411. [PMID: 36254300 PMCID: PMC9557003 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nest predation is the primary cause of nest failure in most ground-nesting bird species. Investigations of relationships between nest predation rate and habitat usually pool different predator species. However, such relationships likely depend on the specific predator involved, partly because habitat requirements vary among predator species. Pooling may therefore impair our ability to identify conservation-relevant relationships between nest predation rate and habitat. We investigated predator-specific nest predation rates in the forest-dependent, ground-nesting wood warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix in relation to forest area and forest edge complexity at two spatial scales and to the composition of the adjacent habitat matrix. We used camera traps at 559 nests to identify nest predators in five study regions across Europe. When analyzing predation data pooled across predator species, nest predation rate was positively related to forest area at the local scale (1000 m around nest), and higher where proportion of grassland in the adjacent habitat matrix was high but arable land low. Analyses by each predator species revealed variable relationships between nest predation rates and habitat. At the local scale, nest predation by most predators was higher where forest area was large. At the landscape scale (10,000 m around nest), nest predation by buzzards Buteo buteo was high where forest area was small. Predation by pine martens Martes martes was high where edge complexity at the landscape scale was high. Predation by badgers Meles meles was high where the matrix had much grassland but little arable land. Our results suggest that relationships between nest predation rates and habitat can depend on the predator species involved and may differ from analyses disregarding predator identity. Predator-specific nest predation rates, and their relationships to habitat at different spatial scales, should be considered when assessing the impact of habitat change on avian nesting success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nino Maag
- Swiss Ornithological InstituteSempachSwitzerland
| | | | | | | | | | - Raphaël Arlettaz
- Division of Conservation Biology, Institute of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
| | | | | | | | | | - Michael Riess
- Department of BiologyUniversity of MarburgMarburgGermany
| | | | - Gilberto Pasinelli
- Swiss Ornithological InstituteSempachSwitzerland
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental StudiesUniversity of ZürichSwitzerland
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3
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Magowan EA, Maguire IE, Smith S, Redpath S, Marks NJ, Wilson RP, Menzies F, O’Hagan M, Scantlebury DM. Dead-reckoning elucidates fine-scale habitat use by European badgers Meles meles. ANIMAL BIOTELEMETRY 2022; 10:10. [PMID: 37521810 PMCID: PMC8908954 DOI: 10.1186/s40317-022-00282-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Recent developments in both hardware and software of animal-borne data loggers now enable large amounts of data to be collected on both animal movement and behaviour. In particular, the combined use of tri-axial accelerometers, tri-axial magnetometers and GPS loggers enables animal tracks to be elucidated using a procedure of 'dead-reckoning'. Although this approach was first suggested 30 years ago by Wilson et al. (1991), surprisingly few measurements have been made in free-ranging terrestrial animals. The current study examines movements, interactions with habitat features, and home-ranges calculated from just GPS data and also from dead-reckoned data in a model terrestrial mammal, the European badger (Meles meles). Methods Research was undertaken in farmland in Northern Ireland. Two badgers (one male, one female) were live-trapped and fitted with a GPS logger, a tri-axial accelerometer, and a tri-axial magnetometer. Thereafter, the badgers' movement paths over 2 weeks were elucidated using just GPS data and GPS-enabled dead-reckoned data, respectively. Results Badgers travelled further using data from dead-reckoned calculations than using the data from only GPS data. Whilst once-hourly GPS data could only be represented by straight-line movements between sequential points, the sub-second resolution dead-reckoned tracks were more tortuous. Although there were no differences in Minimum Convex Polygon determinations between GPS- and dead-reckoned data, Kernel Utilisation Distribution determinations of home-range size were larger using the former method. This was because dead-reckoned data more accurately described the particular parts of landscape constituting most-visited core areas, effectively narrowing the calculation of habitat use. Finally, the dead-reckoned data showed badgers spent more time near to field margins and hedges than simple GPS data would suggest. Conclusion Significant differences emerge when analyses of habitat use and movements are compared between calculations made using just GPS data or GPS-enabled dead-reckoned data. In particular, use of dead-reckoned data showed that animals moved 2.2 times farther, had better-defined use of the habitat (revealing clear core areas), and made more use of certain habitats (field margins, hedges). Use of dead-reckoning to provide detailed accounts of animal movement and highlight the minutiae of interactions with the environment should be considered an important technique in the ecologist's toolkit.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. A. Magowan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
- Randox Laboratories Ltd. Crumlin, Antrim, Northern Ireland UK
| | - I. E. Maguire
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
- Randox Laboratories Ltd. Crumlin, Antrim, Northern Ireland UK
| | - S. Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
| | - S. Redpath
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
| | - N. J. Marks
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
| | - R. P. Wilson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute of Environmental Sustainability, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - F. Menzies
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - M. O’Hagan
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Veterinary Epidemiology Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - D. M. Scantlebury
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL Northern Ireland UK
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Lovell C, Li S, Turner J, Carbone C. The effect of habitat and human disturbance on the spatiotemporal activity of two urban carnivores: The results of an intensive camera trap study. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e8746. [PMID: 35342605 PMCID: PMC8933609 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
With rising urbanization, the presence of urban wildlife is becoming more common, increasing the need for wildlife-friendly spaces in urban planning. Despite this, understanding is limited to how wildlife exploits urban environments and interacts with human populations, and this is vital to our ability to manage and conserve wildlife in urban habitats. Here, we investigate how two urban mammal species, the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) and the European badger (Meles meles), exploit urban environments. Using intensive camera trap surveys, we assessed how habitat and human disturbance influenced the spatiotemporal activity of these species across south-west London. Firstly, we found elevated activity levels of both species at boundaries and within built-up areas, suggesting movement paths follow anthropogenic features. However, badgers were most active in woodland, indicating the importance of high cover habitats suitable for setts and foraging. Secondly, we found badger activity levels were negatively affected by human activity, whilst foxes were unaffected. Further investigation suggested foxes may adapt their activity patterns to avoid human disturbance, with badger activity patterns less plastic. Whilst the results of this study are useful for both the conservation and management of urban wildlife populations, these results also show potential factors which either facilitate or limit wildlife from fully exploiting urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Lovell
- Department of GeographyUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Shiya Li
- Department of Life SciencesImperial College LondonBerkshireUK
| | - Jessica Turner
- Institute of ZoologyZoological Society of LondonLondonUK
- School of Biological and Chemical ScienceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Chris Carbone
- Institute of ZoologyZoological Society of LondonLondonUK
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5
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Soil δ 13C and δ 15N baselines clarify biogeographic heterogeneity in isotopic discrimination of European badgers (Meles meles). Sci Rep 2022; 12:200. [PMID: 34997035 PMCID: PMC8741785 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Isotopic techniques have been used to study phenomena in the geological, environmental, and ecological sciences. For example, isotopic values of multiple elements elucidate the pathways energy and nutrients take in the environment. Isoscapes interpolate isotopic values across a geographical surface and are used to study environmental processes in space and time. Thus, isoscapes can reveal ecological shifts at local scales, and show distribution thresholds in the wider environment at the macro-scale. This study demonstrates a further application of isoscapes, using soil isoscapes of 13C/12C and 15N/14N as an environmental baseline, to understand variation in trophic ecology across a population of Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) at a regional scale. The use of soil isoscapes reduced error, and elevated the statistical signal, where aggregated badger hairs were used, and where individuals were identified using genetic microarray analysis. Stable isotope values were affected by land-use type, elevation, and meteorology. Badgers in lowland habitats had diets richer in protein and were adversely affected by poor weather conditions in all land classes. It is concluded that soil isoscapes are an effective way of reducing confounding biases in macroscale, isotopic studies. The method elucidated variation in the trophic and spatial ecology of economically important taxa at a landscape level. These results have implications for the management of badgers and other carnivores with omnivorous tendencies in heterogeneous landscapes.
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Bae HK, Lee JK, Eom TK, Lee DH, Rhim SJ. Ecological factors influencing the selection of sett location by the Asian badger Meles leucurus. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.2981/wlb.00910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Kyoung Bae
- H.-K. Bae, J.-K. Lee, T.-K. Eom, D.-H. Lee and S.-J. Rhim (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3098-1148) ✉ , School of Bioresource and Bioscience, Chung-Ang Univ., Ansung, South Korea
| | - Jae-Kang Lee
- H.-K. Bae, J.-K. Lee, T.-K. Eom, D.-H. Lee and S.-J. Rhim (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3098-1148) ✉ , School of Bioresource and Bioscience, Chung-Ang Univ., Ansung, South Korea
| | - Tae-Kyung Eom
- H.-K. Bae, J.-K. Lee, T.-K. Eom, D.-H. Lee and S.-J. Rhim (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3098-1148) ✉ , School of Bioresource and Bioscience, Chung-Ang Univ., Ansung, South Korea
| | - Dong-Ho Lee
- H.-K. Bae, J.-K. Lee, T.-K. Eom, D.-H. Lee and S.-J. Rhim (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3098-1148) ✉ , School of Bioresource and Bioscience, Chung-Ang Univ., Ansung, South Korea
| | - Shin-Jae Rhim
- H.-K. Bae, J.-K. Lee, T.-K. Eom, D.-H. Lee and S.-J. Rhim (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3098-1148) ✉ , School of Bioresource and Bioscience, Chung-Ang Univ., Ansung, South Korea
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The challenge of estimating wildlife populations at scale: the case of the European badger (Meles meles) in Ireland. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-021-01528-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
AbstractEstimating population size in space and time is essential for applied ecology and wildlife management purposes; however, making accurate and precise estimates at large scales is highly challenging. An example is the European badger (Meles meles), a widespread and abundant mammal in Ireland. Due to their role in the epidemiology of bovine tuberculosis, the species has been culled in agriculturally dominant landscapes with the intention of reducing spillback infection to local cattle populations. Despite several studies using different approaches having estimated badger populations at different time points and scales, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the current population and its future trajectory. To explore this uncertainty, we use published data and expert opinion to estimate a snapshot of probable badger population size using a Monte Carlo approach, incorporating variation in three key components: social group numbers, group size, and culling efficacy. Using this approach, we estimate what the badger population in Ireland would be with/without culling, assuming a steady-state population at carrying capacity, and discuss the limitations of our current understanding. The mean estimate for the badger population size was 63,188 (5–95th percentile, 48,037–79,315). Population estimates were sensitive to the assumption of mean group size across landscape type. Assuming a cessation of culling (in favour of vaccination, for example) in agricultural areas, the mean estimated population size was 92,096 (5–95th percentile, 67,188–118,881). Despite significant research being conducted on badgers, estimates on population size at a national level in Ireland are only approximate, which is reflected in the large uncertainty in the estimates from this study and inconsistencies between recording of data parameters in previous studies. Focusing on carefully estimating group size, factors impacting its variation, in addition to understanding the dynamics of repopulation post-culling, could be a fruitful component to concentrate on to improve the precision of future estimates.
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Nagy E, Benedek I, Zsolnai A, Halász T, Csivincsik Á, Ács V, Nagy G, Tari T. Habitat Characteristics as Potential Drivers of the Angiostrongylus daskalovi Infection in European Badger ( Meles meles) Populations. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060715. [PMID: 34200340 PMCID: PMC8228055 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
From 2016 to 2020, an investigation was carried out to identify the rate of Angiostrongylus spp. infections in European badgers in Hungary. During the study, the hearts and lungs of 50 animals were dissected in order to collect adult worms, the morphometrical characteristics of which were used for species identification. PCR amplification and an 18S rDNA-sequencing analysis were also carried out. Global and local spatial autocorrelation methods were used to detect high-rated and low-rated infected animal clusters. We conducted a binary logistic regression analysis along with hierarchical agglomerative clustering to determine the relation between selected biotic and abiotic variables, and the prevalence of an A. daskalovi infection. We found a high prevalence (72%) and moderate mean intensity (14.1) of Angiostrongylus sp. infection. Morphology and sequencing revealed that all animals were infected by A. daskalovi. The results of both spatial autocorrelations suggested that the spatial distribution of infected badgers was more spatially clustered than random. The results of an analysis of the correlation between habitat characteristics and infection showed that the infected animals could be associated with dry and open landscape habitats without extended and connected canopy. It is suggested that the territorial behaviour of badgers and the landscape-directed aggregation of potential intermediate hosts might be the drivers of an A. daskalovi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Nagy
- Institute of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry, University of Sopron, H-9400 Sopron, Hungary; (E.N.); (T.T.)
| | - Ildikó Benedek
- Institute of Animal Breeding, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (I.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Attila Zsolnai
- Institute of Animal Breeding, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (I.B.); (A.Z.)
| | - Tibor Halász
- Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (T.H.); (Á.C.); (V.Á.)
- Somogy County Forest Management and Wood Industry Share Co., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Csivincsik
- Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (T.H.); (Á.C.); (V.Á.)
- One Health Working Group, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary
| | - Virág Ács
- Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (T.H.); (Á.C.); (V.Á.)
| | - Gábor Nagy
- Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; (T.H.); (Á.C.); (V.Á.)
- One Health Working Group, Kaposvár Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary
- Correspondence:
| | - Tamás Tari
- Institute of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry, University of Sopron, H-9400 Sopron, Hungary; (E.N.); (T.T.)
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9
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Breaking down population density into different components to better understand its spatial variation. BMC Ecol Evol 2021; 21:82. [PMID: 33975536 PMCID: PMC8111954 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-021-01809-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Population size and densities are key parameters in both fundamental and applied ecology, as they affect population resilience to density-dependent processes, habitat changes and stochastic events. Efficient management measures or species conservation programs thus require accurate estimates of local population densities across time and space, especially for continuously distributed species. For social species living in groups, population density depends on different components, namely the number of groups and the group size, for which relative variations in space may originate from different environmental factors. Whether resulting spatial variations in density are mostly triggered by one component or the other remains poorly known. Here, we aimed at determining the magnitude of the spatial variation in population densities of a social, group-living species, i.e. the European badger Meles meles, in 13 different sites of around 50 km2 across France, to decipher whether sett density, group size or proportion of occupied sett variation is the main factor explaining density variation. Besides the intrinsic factors of density variation, we also assessed whether habitat characteristics such as habitat fragmentation, urbanisation, and resource availability, drove both the spatial variation of density components and local population densities. RESULTS We proposed a new standardised approach combining use of multiple methods, namely distance sampling for estimating the density of occupied sett clusters, i.e. group density, and camera and hair trapping for genetic identification to determine the mean social group size. The density of adult badgers was on average 3.8 per km2 (range 1.7-7.9 per km2) and was positively correlated with the density of sett clusters. The density of adult badgers per site was less related to the social group size or to the proportion of occupied sett clusters. Landscape fragmentation also explained the spatial variation of adult badger density, with highly fragmented landscapes supporting lower adult densities. Density components were linked differently to environmental variables. CONCLUSIONS These results underline the need to break down population density estimates into several components in group-living species to better understand the pattern of temporal and spatial variation in population density, as different components may vary due to different ecological factors.
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10
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Effect of selective removal of badgers ( Meles meles) on ranging behaviour during a 'Test and Vaccinate or Remove' intervention in Northern Ireland. Epidemiol Infect 2021; 149:e125. [PMID: 33958017 PMCID: PMC8161305 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268821001096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the Eurasian badger (Meles meles) as a wildlife host has complicated the management of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in cattle. Badger ranging behaviour has previously been found to be altered by culling of badgers and has been suggested to increase the transmission of bTB either among badgers or between badgers and cattle. In 2014, a five-year bTB intervention research project in a 100 km2 area in Northern Ireland was initiated involving selective removal of dual path platform (DPP) VetTB (immunoassay) test positive badgers and vaccination followed by release of DPP test negative badgers (‘Test and Vaccinate or Remove’). Home range sizes, based on position data obtained from global positioning system collared badgers, were compared between the first year of the project, where no DPP test positive badgers were removed, and follow-up years 2–4 when DPP test positive badgers were removed. A total of 105 individual badgers were followed over 21 200 collar tracking nights. Using multivariable analyses, neither annual nor monthly home ranges differed significantly in size between years, suggesting they were not significantly altered by the bTB intervention that was applied in the study area.
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11
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Roberts BR, Cox R, Osborne JL. Quantifying the relative predation pressure on bumblebee nests by the European badger ( Meles meles) using artificial nests. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:1613-1622. [PMID: 32076538 PMCID: PMC7029100 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Bumblebee populations are declining. Factors that impact the size and success of colonies act by either limiting resource availability (bottom-up regulation) or causing mortality, for example, pesticides, disease, and possibly predation (top-down regulation). The impact of predation has not been quantified, and so, the current study used novel artificial nests as a proxy for wild bumblebee nests to quantify the relative predation pressure from badgers in two habitats: woodland and grassland, and at two nesting depths: surface and underground. Badgers occur across most parts of the UK and are known to predate on bumblebee nests. We found that significantly more artificial nests (pots containing bumblebee nest material) were dug up compared with control pots (pots without bumblebee nest material). This shows that artificial nests have the potential to be used as a method to study the predation of bumblebee nests by badgers. In a location of high badger density, predation pressure was greater in woodland than grassland, whereas no difference was observed in relation to nest depth. Woodland and grassland are shared habitats between bumblebees and badgers, and we suggest that higher predation may relate to activity and foraging behavior of badgers in woodland compared with grassland. We discuss how badger predation in different habitats could impact different bumblebee species according to their nesting behaviors. Understanding the relative impact of badger predation on bumblebee colonies provides key information on how such top-down regulation affects bumblebee populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Cox
- National Wildlife Management CentreAnimal and Plant Health AgencyGloucestershireUK
| | - Juliet L. Osborne
- Environment and Sustainability InstituteUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
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12
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Kotze R, Keith M, Winterbach CW, Winterbach HEK, Marshal JP. The influence of social and environmental factors on organization of African lion (Panthera leo) prides in the Okavango Delta. J Mammal 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyy076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robynne Kotze
- Centre for African Ecology, School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
| | - Mark Keith
- Eugène Marais Research Chair for Wildlife Management, Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | | | - Jason P Marshal
- Centre for African Ecology, School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
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Allen AR, Skuce RA, Byrne AW. Bovine Tuberculosis in Britain and Ireland - A Perfect Storm? the Confluence of Potential Ecological and Epidemiological Impediments to Controlling a Chronic Infectious Disease. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:109. [PMID: 29951489 PMCID: PMC6008655 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful eradication schemes for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) have been implemented in a number of European and other countries over the last 50 years. However, the islands of Britain and Ireland remain a significant aberration to this trend, with the recent exception of Scotland. Why have eradication schemes failed within these countries, while apparently similar programs have been successful elsewhere? While significant socio-economic and political factors have been discussed elsewhere as key determinants of disease eradication, here we review some of the potential ecological and epidemiological constraints that are present in these islands relative to other parts of Europe. We argue that the convergence of these potential factors may interact additively to diminish the potential of the present control programs to achieve eradication. Issues identified include heterogeneity of diagnostic testing approaches, the presence of an abundant wildlife reservoir of infection and the challenge of sustainably managing this risk effectively; the nature, size, density and network structure of cattle farming; potential effects of Mycobacterium bovis strain heterogeneity on disease transmission dynamics; possible impacts of concurrent endemic infections on the disclosure of truly infected animals; climatological differences and change coupled with environmental contamination. We further argue that control and eradication of this complex disease may benefit from an ecosystem level approach to management. We hope that this perspective can stimulate a new conversation about the many factors potentially impacting bTB eradication schemes in Britain and Ireland and possibly stimulate new research in the areas identified.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R. A. Skuce
- Veterinary Science Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, United Kingdom
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14
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Tammeleht E, Kuuspu M. Effect of competition and landscape characteristics on mesocarnivore cohabitation in badger setts. J Zool (1987) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Tammeleht
- Department of Zoology Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
| | - M. Kuuspu
- Department of Zoology Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences University of Tartu Tartu Estonia
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15
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O’Brien J, Elliott S, Hayden TJ. Use of hedgerows as a key element of badger (Meles meles) behaviour in Ireland. Mamm Biol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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16
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17
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Impact of human land use patterns and climatic variables on badger (Meles meles) foraging behaviour in Ireland. MAMMAL RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s13364-015-0242-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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18
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Seasonal dietary shifts and food resource exploitation by the hog badger (Arctonyx collaris) in a Chinese subtropical forest. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-014-0881-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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19
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Obidziński A, Pabjanek P, Mędrzycki P. Determinants of badgerMeles melessett location in Białowieża Primeval Forest, northeastern Poland. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2013. [DOI: 10.2981/11-074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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20
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Affiliation(s)
| | - P. A. Fleming
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences; Murdoch University; Murdoch; WA; Australia
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21
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Reid N, Etherington TR, Wilson GJ, Montgomery WI, McDonald RA. Monitoring and population estimation of the European badgerMeles melesin Northern Ireland. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.2981/11-016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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22
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LARA-ROMERO C, VIRGÓS E, REVILLA E. Sett density as an estimator of population density in the European badger Meles meles. Mamm Rev 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2907.2011.00194.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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23
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Kauhala K, Holmala K. Landscape Features, Home-Range Size and Density of Northern Badgers (Meles meles). ANN ZOOL FENN 2011. [DOI: 10.5735/086.048.0403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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24
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Menzies F, Abernethy D, Stringer L, Jordan C. A comparison of badger activity in two areas of high and low bovine tuberculosis incidence of Northern Ireland. Vet Microbiol 2011; 151:112-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2011.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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25
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Estimates of regional population densities of badger Meles meles, fox Vulpes vulpes and hare Lepus europaeus using walked distance sampling. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-011-0536-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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26
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Balestrieri A, Remonti L, Prigioni C. Observations on marking behaviour in a low-density population of European badgers (Meles meles). Acta Ethol 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-011-0093-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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27
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Kauhala K, Auttila M. Habitat preferences of the native badger and the invasive raccoon dog in southern Finland. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.4098/j.at.0001-7051.040.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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28
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Balestrieri A, Remonti L, Prigioni C. Habitat Selection in a Low-Density BadgerMeles melesPopulation: A Comparison of Radio-Tracking and Latrine Surveys. WILDLIFE BIOLOGY 2009. [DOI: 10.2981/08-027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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30
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Markov NI. Spatial distribution and structure of badger (Meles leucurus Hodgson, 1847) setts in islands of the Ob River floodplain. RUSS J ECOL+ 2009. [DOI: 10.1134/s1067413609060083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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31
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Farm husbandry and badger behaviour: opportunities to manage badger to cattle transmission of Mycobacterium bovis? Prev Vet Med 2009; 93:2-10. [PMID: 19846226 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2009.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2008] [Revised: 08/25/2009] [Accepted: 09/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a serious disease of cattle in the UK in terms of the economic impact on the farming industry. The disease has proven difficult to control in the cattle population and the Eurasian badger (Meles meles) is a source of infection. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential to employ farm husbandry and biosecurity practices to reduce bTB transmission risks. Here we review the potential routes of bTB transmission between badgers and cattle and explore the options for managing cattle and badger behaviour with a view to reducing the risks of inter-species transmission at pasture and within farm buildings. We discuss the relative merits of different cattle grazing regimes, habitat manipulations and badger latrine management in reducing the potential for badger-cattle contact at pasture. The physical exclusion of badgers from farm buildings is suggested as the simplest, and potentially most effective, method of reducing contact and opportunities for disease transmission between badgers and cattle. However, more research is required on the effectiveness, practicalities and costs of implementing such measures before specific guidance can be developed.
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Sleeman DP, Davenport J, More SJ, Clegg TA, Collins JD, Martin SW, Williams DH, Griffin JM, O’Boyle I. How many Eurasian badgers Meles meles L. are there in the Republic of Ireland? EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-008-0244-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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33
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Rosalino L, Santos MJ, Beier P, Santos-Reis M. Eurasian badger habitat selection in Mediterranean environments: Does scale really matter? Mamm Biol 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mambio.2007.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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34
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Loureiro F, Rosalino LM, Macdonald DW, Santos-Reis M. Use of multiple den sites by Eurasian badgers, Meles meles, in a Mediterranean habitat. Zoolog Sci 2008; 24:978-85. [PMID: 18088174 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.24.978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2007] [Accepted: 06/13/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Den sites are a conspicuous feature of Eurasian badgers, Meles meles, and in many environments include large communal burrows used by several group members. In Serra de Grândola, southwest Portugal, nine badgers from three social groups were captured and radio collared from 2000 to 2004. A total of 1,787 locations of badgers in their resting sites were registered along with a brief description of the type of site and weather conditions. Resting sites were grouped according to structure (burrows, shrubs, rocks, hollow trees and man-made structures) and function (main, secondary and occasional). Although main setts were the most frequently used shelter (62.25%), an average of 14 (SD 7.55) resting sites were used in each territory. The pattern of use varied seasonally, showing differences according to sex and social group. Overall, females used more than twice as many occasional resting sites as did males. Generally burrows, predominantly main setts, were most frequently used during winter and autumn, whilst non-burrow shelters were preferred during spring and summer, when the weather was hot, dry and not windy. Proximity to food patches had no apparent influence on the location of resting sites. Our results offered no support for the foraging-related hypotheses that multiple resting sites are a means of conserving energy or of maintaining proximity to rich food patches. We suggest that other factors such as thermoregulation needs, disturbance, and reproductive status, could be influencing the observed pattern of resting-site use by badgers in Serra de Grândola.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Loureiro
- Universidade de Lisboa, Centro de Biologia Ambiental/Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Campo Grande, Lisbon, Portugal.
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35
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Delahay RJ, Ward AI, Walker N, Long B, Cheeseman CL. Distribution of badger latrines in a high-density population: habitat selection and implications for the transmission of bovine tuberculosis to cattle. J Zool (1987) 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2006.00271.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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36
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Delahay RJ, Carter SP, Forrester GJ, Mitchell A, Cheeseman CL. Habitat correlates of group size, bodyweight and reproductive performance in a high-density Eurasian badger (Meles meles) population. J Zool (1987) 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.2006.00165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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37
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Spatial organization and behaviour of badgers (Meles meles) in a moderate-density population. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-006-0268-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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38
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Bodin C, Benhamou S, Poulle ML. What do European badgers (Meles meles) know about the spatial organisation of neighbouring groups? Behav Processes 2006; 72:84-90. [PMID: 16443332 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2006.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2005] [Revised: 12/12/2005] [Accepted: 01/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
European badgers (Meles meles) live in groups. Although they can distinguish between a member of their own group, a member of a neighbouring group and a stranger, their ability to understand that neighbouring individuals belong to different groups inhabiting different places, and possibly to build up some representation of the spatial organisation of neighbouring groups remains to be shown. In this study, we conducted a pilot homing experiment to test such ability. Radio-collared badgers were displaced to the home ranges of neighbouring groups and their homing performances were compared to those of badgers displaced either to the periphery of their own group's home range or beyond the neighbouring home ranges. When released in their own home range, badgers homed rapidly and efficiently, whereas when released beyond the neighbouring groups' home ranges (whatever the distance) they did not home. In contrast, badgers released in the home range of a neighbouring group performed some random search there, before returning to their setts quite efficiently. These results suggest that badgers may consider their neighbours as members of different groups inhabiting different places close to their own home range, but their ability to build up some spatial representation of neighbourhood relationships could not be demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Bodin
- CNRS-CEFE, 1919 route de Mende, F-34293 Montpellier cedex 5, France
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39
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Kauhala K, Holmala K, Lammers W, Schregel J. Home ranges and densities of medium-sized carnivores in south-east Finland, with special reference to rabies spread. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03192650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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40
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Population dynamics of badgers (Meles meles) in Oxfordshire, U.K.: numbers, density and cohort life histories, and a possible role of climate change in population growth. J Zool (1987) 2006. [DOI: 10.1017/s0952836902000158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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41
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Pope LC, Domingo-Roura X, Erven K, Burke T. Isolation by distance and gene flow in the Eurasian badger (Meles meles) at both a local and broad scale. Mol Ecol 2005; 15:371-86. [PMID: 16448407 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2005.02815.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Eurasian badgers, Meles meles, have been shown to possess limited genetic population structure within Europe; however, field studies have detected high levels of philopatry, which are expected to increase population structure. Population structure will be a consequence of both contemporary dispersal and historical processes, each of which is expected to be evident at a different scale. Therefore, to gain a greater understanding of gene flow in the badger, we examined microsatellite diversity both among and within badger populations, focusing on populations from the British Isles and western Europe. We found that while populations differed in their allelic diversity, the British Isles displayed a similar degree of diversity to the rest of western Europe. The lower genetic diversity occurring in Ireland, Norway and Scotland was more likely to have resulted from founder effects rather than contemporary population density. While there was significant population structure (F ST = 0.19), divergence among populations was generally well explained by geographic distance (P < 0.0001) across the entire range studied of more than 3000 km. Transient effects from the Pleistocene appear to have been replaced by a strong pattern of genetic isolation by distance across western Europe, suggestive of colonization from a single refugium. Analysis of individuals within British populations through Mantel tests and spatial autocorrelation demonstrated that there was significant local population structure across 3-30 km, confirming that dispersal is indeed restricted. The isolation by distance observed among badger populations across western Europe is likely to be a consequence of this restricted local dispersal.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Pope
- Department of Animal and Plant Sciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
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43
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Macdonald DW, Newman C, Dean J, Buesching CD, Johnson PJ. The distribution of Eurasian badger,Meles meles, setts in a high-density area: field observations contradict the sett dispersion hypothesis. OIKOS 2004. [DOI: 10.1111/j.0030-1299.2004.12879.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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44
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Increasing frequency of bite wounds with increasing population density in Eurasian badgers, Meles meles. Anim Behav 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2003.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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45
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Seasonal and spatial pattern of shelter use by badgersMeles meles in Białowieża Primeval Forest (Poland). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03192510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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46
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Bartmańska J, Nadolska M. The density and distribution of badger setts in the Sudety Mountains, Poland. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03192497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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47
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Shirley MD, Rushton SP, Smith GC, South AB, Lurz PW. Investigating the spatial dynamics of bovine tuberculosis in badger populations: evaluating an individual-based simulation model. Ecol Modell 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3800(03)00167-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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48
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49
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Kowalczyk R, Zalewski A, Jedrzejewska B, Jedrzejewski W. Spatial organization and demography of badgers (Meles meles) in Bialowieza Primeval Forest, Poland, and the influence of earthworms on badger densities in Europe. CAN J ZOOL 2003. [DOI: 10.1139/z02-233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
From 1996 to 2001 we studied the spatial organization and demography of Eurasian badgers, Meles meles, in Białowieża Primeval Forest in eastern Poland, one of the best preserved woodlands in temperate Europe. Badger density estimated on the basis of main sett distribution (0.54 sett/10 km2) and group size (3.9 individuals per sett, on average) was 2.11 badgers/10 km2. Average annual productivity of the population was 64% and the mortality rate of badgers >1 year old was 2238% per annum. The size of territories of badger groups (n = 7), estimated by radio telemetry, varied from 8.4 to 25.5 km2 (mean 12.8 km2). Individual home ranges of badgers (n = 13) covered, on average, 9.3 km2, and varied seasonally and among animals of different age and sex classes (from 4.0 to 24.4 km2). Home ranges of adult badgers were significantly larger than those of subadults. Badgers occupied larger home ranges in summer, when earthworm availability was low. The size of both group territories and individual home ranges was influenced by the distribution of oaklimehornbeam (OLH) forests, habitats rich in earthworms. Based on our findings and a review of literature, we propose that the standing crop of biomass of earthworms (Lumbricus spp.), the main food of badgers in a large part of their geographic range, and mean annual temperature are crucial factors shaping the densities of badgers in the European temperate and boreal zones. We also suggest that abundance of food resources is the essential factor underlying the great variation in badger sociality (from pairs to large groups).
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Tanaka H, Yamanaka A, Endo K. Spatial distribution and sett use by the Japanese badger, Meles meles anakuma. MAMMAL STUDY 2002. [DOI: 10.3106/mammalstudy.27.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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