Abstract
(1) In this study I used radiotelemetry to examine patterns of space use by free-ranging California voles (Microtus californicus) both before and after the provision of supplemental food (fresh carrots). In each of the study's 2 years, carrots were provided over an area (100 m2) about the size of a California vole home range. The first run was conducted at peak population density, and the second at low density. (2) Home range core areas were 30-50% larger for males than for females, but peripheral areas were nearly 100% larger for males. Home ranges of those females having access to supplemental food shrank after provisioning, whereas those of males did not. Home ranges of males were nearly 100% larger at low than at high density, whereas those of females were 30-50% larger at low than at high density (the latter difference being non-significant). (3) Home ranges of females often overlapped extensively with those of other females, and nest-sharing was not uncommon. Some females shifted their home ranges after food addition to encompass more of the provisioned area. The addition of food induced overlap between females that had not previously overlapped. (4) Males showed very little overlap with other males, and this was not affected by food addition. Males rapidly occupied home ranges abandoned by adjacent males. (5) Males and females overlapped with each other extensively, but access to females was unequal. I conclude that male M. californicus are strongly territorial, but that females are non-territorial or selectively territorial. Mating is probably polygynous, and the most likely mode is female defence.
Published Version
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