Abstract
The population ecology of the eastern harvest mouse ( Reithrodontomys humulis ) was studied for one year in southeastern Virginia. Maximum observed density (44.4/ha) occurred during winter and was higher than previously reported for this species. Mean lifespan (9.5 weeks) and mean home range size were similar for both sexes. After reaching trappable age, harvest mice show a constant weekly mortality rate of 6%. Female mice weighed significantly more than males, with maximum weights occurring during October and November. Higher weights in females were correlated with reproduction; reproductive peaks occurred in spring (March and April) and autumn (September and October), with little reproduction during the summer (May, June, and July). Plant species composition was not important in describing the habitat of R. humulis .
| Original language | American English |
|---|---|
| Journal | The American Midland Naturalist |
| Volume | 122 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Jul 1989 |
Disciplines
- Biology
Keywords
- Easter Harvest Mouse
- Population ecology
- Reithrodontomys humulis
- Southeastern Virginia