Population dynamics and dispersal patterns in common voles (Microtus arvalis)

Outbreaks of common voles (Microtus arvalis) can cause significant losses in agriculture and forestry. To minimise damage it is useful to prevent voles from dispersing from refuges to arable land (Lidicker, 1975; Singleton et al., 2003). To apply timely and spatially targeted management methods, sound knowledge about the distribution patterns of voles at field-refuge-boundaries is required. Field sites for this study, funded 2009-2012 by the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) are located in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Circular grassland areas below wind energy plants are used as replicated experimental refuges. Barrier fences were installed in 10 of 16 refuges that allow immigration but prevent emigration. Capture-mark-release revealed a population expansion August 2010. Individual number rose higher in refuges without barrier fences. Mowing in June and September 2010 had a negative effect on vole abundance. Aerial pictures and telemetry studies are used to detect vole distribution onto the field. The analysis of dispersal dynamics will be continued and appropriate management methods will be tested in the last year of the study.