Stable isotope analysis as a minimal-invasive method for dietary studies on the highly endangered Common hamster (Cricetus cricetus)

Abstract

Abstract This study applied the analysis of stable isotope ratios as a minimally-invasive tool to estimate the diet of Cricetus cricetus for the first time. We took hair and food samples of three different populations of C. cricetus and analyzed stable carbon and nitrogen ratios. The stable isotope ratios in hamster hairs differed significantly within and between populations according to different sampling seasons and animal ages. Additionally, the isotopic signatures of potential food samples differed between sampling sites and food categories. The isotopic mixing models illustrated that diet composition varied with season and food availability. During the summer season hamsters living in agricultural areas mainly fed on green and ripe crop. In contrast to this, during the winter season ripe crop was the main food component for hamsters in agricultural areas while hamsters living in urban areas fed almost exclusively on nuts. These are, despite a wide variety of available food sources, most suitable for hoarding in the burrow. We conclude that stable isotope analysis of hamster hairs is an appropriate minimal-invasive method to investigate correlations between available and consumed food sources throughout the overall distribution of this species.