Abstract

Distribution of badger (Meles meles), fox (Vulpes vulpes) and raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) burrows in different habitats and soil types of Lithuania was investigated after surveying 371 pre-selected 1×1-km squares. Analysis of burrow distribution within habitats and soils was made applying digitised habitat data. Statistical data were analysed applying a generalised linear model with Poisson distribution and a logarithmic link function. Badger setts were found in 10, raccoon dog burrows in 11 and fox earths in 15 habitat types. The tendencies were similar for all the three species. Burrowing mammals avoided open or wet places and preferred to dwell in burrows that had been dug out in habitats providing cover. Badgers avoided digging setts in sandy soils but showed tendency to dig setts in sandy loam. Foxes liked to dwell in burrows dug out in soils of very high permeability. Raccoon dogs showed a tendency to avoid burrows dug out in soil of very low permeability.

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