Radio-tracking of Peromyscus leucopus

Abstract

Miniature radio transmitters and 'local' triangulation methods were used to monitor the movements of free-ranging Peromyscus leucopus. A sexually mature male and female were studied in detail during two sessions within a 6-week period. Positions were recorded on 107 occasions, giving home ranges of 1.26 ha for the male and 0.91 ha for the female. Extensive home range overlap, correspondence in patterns of movement, the bearing of a litter by the female, and the lack of other adults in the study area indicate pair activity. The equipment and methods described will enable more thorough studies of the ecology and behavior of small, highly mobile rodent species in the future.