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Population Dynamics of the Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) (Experience in an Analytical Review of the State of the Problem)

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Abstract—

An analytical review of our own data and published material accumulated to date on the patterns and factors of the population dynamics of the common shrew (Sorex araneus L.) is presented. It was established that sharp fluctuations in the number are typical for the entire distribution area of this shrew. More or less rhythmic fluctuations were registered only at the optimum of the area. Among exogenous and endogenous factors causing all changes, the height of the snow cover and soil freezing depth in winter; spring temperature conditions and rainfall in the winter–spring period; as well as the population level, status, and ecological structure of the populations in the previous year, are the most significant.

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Ivanter, E.V. Population Dynamics of the Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) (Experience in an Analytical Review of the State of the Problem). Biol Bull Russ Acad Sci 47, 844–853 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1062359020070055

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