Two common species of small mammals are not significantly disturbed by industrial activity near their homes, according to a new study by University of Alberta scientists.
Two common species of small mammals are not significantly disturbed by industrial activity near their homes, according to a new study by University of Alberta scientists.
Researchers examined populations of deer mice and red-backed voles in the boreal forest of northeastern Alberta over two summers to determine how factors like noise, traffic and industrial activity were affecting the animals.
The researchers compared the activity levels, average body mass and numbers of mice and voles living in areas close to compressor stations and roads, with those in areas with no infrastructure or industrial activity.
“Our results suggest that the effects of roads and infrastructure producing chronic noise are minimal and unlikely to be drivers of their population dynamics or behaviour,” said Julia Shonfield, who conducted the research during her PhD studies under the supervision of U of A ecologist Erin Bayne.
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Image via Julia Shonfield.
