The influence of behaviour and season on habitat selection by a small mammal

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dc.contributor.authorBos, D.
dc.contributor.authorCarthew, S.
dc.date.issued2003
dc.descriptionThe definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com
dc.description.abstractThis study examined the selection of habitat by Ningaui yvonneae, a small, nocturnal insectivorous marsupial of semi-arid regions of southern Australia. In addition to idengifying habitat preferences, the study was concerned with idengifying how habitats were used, and for what purpose they were valued. Triodiairritans (hummock grass) was the most preferred habitat component overall. However, other habitat components were found to be of equal or greater preference during certain seasons and for certain behaviours. The importance of considering behaviour in studies of habitat selection was discussed. Habitat selection by N. yvonneae appeared to be influenced by predation risk and energetic reward. The selection for Triodia is thought to be due to its provision of protection and foraging opportunities. However, leaf litter was preferred over Triodia for foraging, possibly because it offered greater energetic returns. To minimise predation risk while in leaf litter, ningauis remained close to Triodia and moved larger prey items to the edge of Triodia for consumption.
dc.description.statementofresponsibilityDarren G. Bos, Susan M. Carthew
dc.identifier.citationEcography: pattern and diversity in ecology, 2003; 26(6):810-820
dc.identifier.doi10.1111/j.0906-7590.2003.03584.x
dc.identifier.issn0906-7590
dc.identifier.issn1600-0587
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/2440/1738
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherMunksgaard Int Publ Ltd
dc.source.urihttp://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.0906-7590.2003.03584.x
dc.titleThe influence of behaviour and season on habitat selection by a small mammal
dc.typeJournal article
pubs.publication-statusPublished

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