Influence of landscape elements on population densities and habitat use of three small-mammal species

Corridor effects on population densities and habitat use of 3 small-mammal species were assessed during 1998-2000 in an experimentally fragmented landscape. Corridor presence did not have a statistically significant effect on population densities of cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) or cotton mice (Peromyscus gossypinus); however, a significant effect was observed for old-field mice (Peromyscus polionotus) during 2000. Cotton rats were captured more frequently than expected in corridors, while old-field mice were captured more frequently than expected in habitat-patch interior; and cotton mice exhibited a more uniform distribution across habitat types. These results suggest that landscape fragmentation and habitat structure may have varying effects on population densities of different species.