Dynamics of a local badger population in the Netherlands over the years 1983–2001
Journal
Mammalian Biology - Zeitschrift fur Saugetierkunde
Authors
R.C. van Apeldoorn, J. Vink and T. Matyáštík
Abstract
Long-term data on badger population dynamics are scarce. For 19 years data on
badger and sett numbers were collected by direct observation of a local
population in the province of Utrecht, the Netherlands. Analysis of these data
show two different patterns of population growth. The first shows a slow growth
in numbers and setts and the second an exponential growth. Spatial dynamics were
also analysed in combination with habitat use. The first increase showed
colonisation of the entire study area by social groups. Subsequently, new groups
settled at the border of the area and inbetween established group territories.
Population dynamics are discussed given the many badger-friendly measures that
were taken.
Keywords
Meles meles; population growth; spatial expansion
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