Premium
Survival and behaviour of captive‐born weasels ( Mustela nivalis nivalis ) released in nature
Author(s) -
Hellstedt Paavo,
Kallio Eva Riikka
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
journal of zoology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.915
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1469-7998
pISSN - 0952-8369
DOI - 10.1017/s0952836905006618
Subject(s) - biology , zoology , ecology , seasonal breeder
The behaviour and survival of captive‐born least weasels Mustela nivalis nivalis released in nature were reported in this study. Altogether 27 captive‐born and six wild‐caught weasels were equipped with radio transmitters and their survival was studied as a function of age and season. The daily mortality rate was generally higher in captive‐born than in wild‐caught weasels. The survival of captive‐born weasels was highest if they were released during the summer and hence when they were young. Differences in the behavioural patterns of captive‐born and wild‐caught weasels were apparent. Captive‐born weasels were often more visible in the field and were less timid than wild‐caught weasels. Results suggest that to be successful, restocking of weasels should be done with young animals, which are preferably released during the season with abundant food resources.