A comparative small mammal population study between two areas of dwarf shrub heath on the Great Orme Country Park, Llandudno.

Abstract

This study took place on the Great Orme Country Park and Local Nature Reserve,
Llandudno, and set out to answer a number of questions concerning the understudied
small mammal populations located within the SSSI protected dwarf shrub heath
community. Two areas of dwarf shrub heath (NVC classification H8c) were studied
on opposite sides of the headland, in a comparative population investigation to
identify any significant differences between the faunal species present. These sites
were chosen as a result of the heavy tourist pressure on the site, which receives some
500,000 visitors annually, as it was thought that the thick heathland would provide
cover and security for the traps to mitigate any public interference. Following
research into the topic, it was decide to use Longworth Live Traps laid out in a 6x6
grid format, with ten metres between traps, with the aim of estimating population size
and density, and identifying individuals from which to construct observed home
ranges. The investigation was successful, in that distinct populations of small
mammals were identified across the two sites, with different species occupying the
two areas. The controlling factors for species distribution were not identified, but it
was surmised that the surrounding land use plays an important part in the presence of
certain species. A number of key questions were raised, providing potential for future
research into areas such as habitat composition in relation to faunal distribution;
predation of small mammals by raptors and owls through the analysis of pellets; and
species specific studies related to annual population dynamics.