Selective damage to tree-seedlings by bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus)

Abstract

Small saplings of Tilia cordata, when planted in deciduous woodlands, are damaged or destroyed by rodents. Experiments with captive animals show that the damage is identical with that caused by bank voles. Bank voles are present at all sites where damage occurs. Small saplings of Betula spp. established naturally in the sites are very rarely damaged. Seedlings of Quercus spp. and Fagus silvatica are damaged or destroyed but small saplings suffer little or no damage attributable to voles. Experiments with captive bank voles demonstrate marked differences between species of tree in their susceptibility to damage. Tilia cordata is often severely damaged or destroyed. Betula spp. suffer little or no damage. Damage and destruction of small saplings is an important factor in the failure of regeneration of T. cordata in English woodlands because of the low density of seedlings and low frequency of large crops of fertile fruits.