The snow vole Chionomys nivalis (Martins, 1842) (Mammalia, Rodentia, Cricetidae) on the Sibillini Mountains (Central Italy)

Abstract

The distribution of the snow vole Chionomys nivalis along the Apennines needs updates and detailed studies. In particular, the presence on some mountains should be confirmed with more recent objective findings. In the present work, a revision is made of the snow vole’s presences on the Sibillini Mountains, considering bibliographic records and a museum specimen. Then details are given about the capture of an individual in 2014. This specimen allows to confirm in an objective way the presence of the species on the Sibillini Mountains in recent times and the genetic analysis allowed the comparison with other European specimens.