Differences in Density and Body Condition of Small Rodent Populations on Different Distance from Road

Abstract

This study was conducted to identify the road effect on small rodent populations within fragmented forest areas around the road from June to September 2002, in 9 study sites of Baekdugdaegan mountains, Korea. Two species of small rodents, Korean field mouse Apodemus peninsulae and striped field mouse Apodemus agrarius, were captured in this study. Korean field mouse preferred forest area, and striped field mouse generally has been found edge area around road. Mean body weight of Korean field mouse was significantly different, but that of striped field mouse was not between both distance from road. Korean field mouse is forest-dwelling species and their distribution is limited in forest area. In contrast, striped field mouse has wide distributional range around road. The effects of road is different in each small rodent species and their habitat preferences.