Home range size and body mass differences of Virginia opossums (Didelphis virginiana) living in urban and rural environments
by Wright, Jeffrey D., M.S., TRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY, 2008, 48 pages; 1461622

Abstract:

The United States becomes more urbanized every year, which presents new challenges to wildlife. It is important to learn how species residing in these areas respond to urbanization in order to effectively manage their populations. In an attempt to better understand the spatial requirements of opossums living in an urban setting, individuals were tracked within the city limits of Kirksville, MO and their home range size was estimated using ArcView. Home range estimates from this study were combined with data from previous urban research and were then compared to home range sizes of rural animals. Body mass was of Kirksville, MO opossums was compared to that of a rural population. Urban animals average smaller home range sizes and were significantly heavier than those living in a rural setting. Male opossums significantly increased the size of their home range during breeding season but female home range size did not change.

 
AdviserM. Scott Burt
SchoolTRUMAN STATE UNIVERSITY
SourceMAI/ 47-04, p. , Mar 2009
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsEcology; Zoology
Publication Number1461622
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