Some data on raccoon dog’s distribution in the Samara Region

Abstract

Raccoon dog is an invasive species which has successfully expanded on the new territory in the Samara region. The paper presents data on its distribution on the Samara Region areas. The studies were conducted on the floodplain, steppe, forest and riparian areas of the region, including both national park Samarskaya Luka and Zhiguli State Nature Biosphere Reserve areas. Collected data proves studied species presence (such as footprints, burrows, temporary shelters) in 12 municipal districts of the region. The paper contains information on the GPS-mapping of burrows and temporary shelters which have been found in the southern part of the protected area of the national park Samarskaya Luka during 20022015. Fifteen burrows and temporary shelters, footprints, urinary points, feces have been found in this area, and the detailed burrows descriptions were provided. Further spread of the population depends on the places suitable for temporary shelters and burrows, presence of water reservoirs areas where raccoon dogs may find food, as well as minimized influence of disturbing factor (anthropogenic press). The data obtained may be useful for employees of nature biosphere reserves, forestry and hunting organizations for invasive species monitoring.