Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and mesocarnivores in a Mongolian protected area

Author:

Davaasuren Delgerchimeg1ORCID,Mazzamuto Maria Vittoria2,Tranquillo Claudia3,Enkhbat Undrakhbayar1,Munkhtsog Bayaraa1,Bayanmunkh Ulam-Urnukh1,Yunden Altanbagana1,Dolphin Jeff2,Gansukh Sukhchuluun1,Koprowski John2

Affiliation:

1. Institute of Biology , Mongolian Academy of Sciences , Ulaanbaatar , Mongolia

2. Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources , University of Wyoming , Laramie , WY , USA

3. Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences , University of Insubria , Varese , Italy

Abstract

Abstract Prey-predator interactions across time and space strongly influence many animal communities. This study unveils the first insights into the ecology of the Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) in Mongolia, and specifically in Bogd Khan Mountain Strictly Protected Area. We used by-catch data obtained from camera traps to analyze activity patterns and potential interactions with mammalian predators. Red squirrels exhibited primarily diurnal activity with occasional nocturnal forays, while potential predators like foxes (Vulpes vulpes, Vulpes corsac) and martens (Martes foina, Martes zibellina) displayed cathemeral and nocturnal patterns, respectively. The diurnal Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul) showed the greatest activity overlap with squirrels. Suggesting predator avoidance behavior potentially mediated by olfactory cues, squirrel activity was negatively impacted by marten presence, which was in turn potentially affected by human disturbance. We highlight the need for further investigations, particularly regarding the dietary composition of Pallas’s cats in forested habitats and the broader ecological implications of human disturbance on predator–prey dynamics within this crucial conservation area.

Funder

Science and Technology Foundation of Mongolia

Global engagement, University of Wyoming

American Center for Mongolian Studies

Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming

Koprowski Conservation Research Lab

Publisher

Walter de Gruyter GmbH

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