Research on the relationship between the density of Anatolian ground squirrel (Spermophilus xanthoprymnus Bennet, 1835) nest burrows and soil texture

Abstract

This study examined the correlation between the nest density of the Anatolian ground squirrel (Spermophilus xanthoprymnus) and the characteristics of soil texture and stoniness. This study was conducted in Gençali plain, Isparta province, Türkiye. A mechanical analysis of the soil revealed that clay content varied from 24% to 51%, sand content ranged from 33% to 55%, and dust levels were between 13% and 28%. It was observed that S. xanthoprymnus exhibited a preference for loamy clay soils, with an occurrence rate of 82% in the sampled areas. The analysis indicated that the presence of stones in the soil had a statistically significant positive effect (p < 0.01) on the species’ nest site selection, while the amount of sand had a negative impact (p < 0.05). Nest density increased in habitats with stoniness levels between 9% and 9.5%, whereas a decrease in nest numbers was recorded in areas with stoniness levels either below or above this range.

Keywords: Anatolian ground squirrel; Spermophilus xanthoprymnus; ecology; nest density; soil texture