Skip to Main Content
 

Global Search Box

 
 
 
 

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Influence of predation on feeding and giving-up density of forest rodents

Abstract Details

2020, BS, Kent State University, College of Arts and Sciences / Department of Biological Sciences.
The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between risk and reward for forest rodents, particularly Eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis). All experiments used giving-up density (GUD) as a tool to assess the perceived risk of predation in different habitats (forested and open), as well as sites with different levels of anthropogenic activity. Bins of counted oil seeds were placed in each habitat at different sites; seeds remaining after two-day feeding trials were collected and counted to determine GUDs. Plastic substrate and game cameras were used in a later experiment to increase foraging difficulty and observe foraging behavior. GUDs were significantly higher at the site with more anthropogenic activity, however, there was no significant difference in GUD between the forested and open habitats. Camera footage revealed many non-rodent foragers (particularly raccoons) eating seeds from the bins, which may account for the difference in GUD across sites. Future studies should consider adding a site with higher human interaction, or possibly new foraging habitats, such as an arboreal patch.
Mark Kershner (Advisor)
47 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Hirsh, M. L. (2020). Influence of predation on feeding and giving-up density of forest rodents [Undergraduate thesis, Kent State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1588332202908538

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Hirsh, Morgan. Influence of predation on feeding and giving-up density of forest rodents. 2020. Kent State University, Undergraduate thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1588332202908538.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Hirsh, Morgan. "Influence of predation on feeding and giving-up density of forest rodents." Undergraduate thesis, Kent State University, 2020. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ksuhonors1588332202908538

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)