The response of prey to Stoat (Mustela erminea) scent |
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| Authors: | Martyn L Gorman |
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| Institution: | Culterty Field Station, Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Newburgh AB40AA, Scotland |
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| Abstract: | Microtus agrestis and Orcadian Microtus arvalis avoid stoat scent and show a reduction in activity when surrounded by it. Such responses probably are adaptive and decrease the chances of an individual suffering predation. Since M. arvalis has been isolated from stoats on Orkney for several millenia the response is innate.
For reasons unknown Apodemus sylvaticus does not respond to stoat scent. |
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