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Lynx acceptance in NE Poland, Lithuania, and Estonia was assessed by using a questionnaire survey. Regions under assessment differed in lynx numbers, population dynamics, and protection status. We examined if public opinion was related to the species conservation status and population size. In the northern part of the investigated territory, respondents were the most realistic as to the knowledge of lynx presence in the region and they accepted better lynxes close to their home. In the southern part, respondents were more positive about lynx number increase; in the north, maintaining current numbers was preferred. The importance of wilderness for respondents was increasing southwards. Thus, the south.north gradient on the lynx acceptance in NE Poland, Lithuania, and Estonia followed the species situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number and spatial distribution of wildlife-vehicle accidents (WVA) in Lithuania in 2002-2007, as registered by the Lithuanian Police Traffic Supervision Service, were analysed. The analysis revealed dangerous roads, most of which were situated in the eastern part of the country. The main factors that influenced the number of WVA involving moose, roe deer, and wild boars registered on Lithuanian roads were the volume of traffic load and the number of vehicles, especially heavy ones, in the country, as well as wildlife population numbers. The observed correlations between the number and spatial distribution of WVA and recorded wildlife inventory data strongly suggest that WVA can be used for indirectly measuring the distributions and populations of wildlife species found in Lithuania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of Lutra lutra in Lithuania was studied in 2007.2008 by surveying spraints and other signs of its presence (so-called standard monitoring methods). In total, 745 sites were checked in various water bodies: rivers, lakes, reclamation ditches, fish farms, and artificial reservoirs. Out of them, 584 (78.4%) were found positive. Fish farms were the most intensively used habitat . otters were found in all surveyed farms. Artificial reservoirs, medium-sized rivers, and streams were also frequently used. Within 100 m in the environs of a water body only anthropogenic landscape (towns, villages) was found to be a negative factor for otter presence. Other habitats both within 100 m in the environs and on the bank within 20 m, as well as regulation of a water body, did not influence the presence of otters. It is concluded that the situation of otters in Lithuania is good. The population is widely distributed across the country and inhabits various water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bank voles (Myodes glareolus) were trapped in north-east Lithuania from October to April in 2004.2008. Investigation of 536 individuals showed that winter growth depression for the species was not strongly expressed, except for the body weight of juveniles in December and January. Only a few skull characters showed stunted growth. The wintering juvenile bank voles attained an average body mass of 14.8 ± 0.07 g and an average body length of 84.3 ± 0.32 mm, while the respective parameters in subadult individuals were 17.0 ± 0.09 g and 86.0 ± 0.37 mm. The successful overwintering of such small bank voles suggests a possible influence of warmer winters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regression equations were computed for determining body mass from skull measurements from 376 bank vole (Myodes glareolus) individuals trapped in seven sites of Lithuania during 1999.2005. The obtained linear and multiple regressions explained 38.58% of the body mass variation. The applicability of regressions was checked on 92 additional specimens. The error of the prediction of the body mass of bank voles was 1.2.4.4%. The obtained equations improve the accuracy of evaluation of biomass consumed and widen possibilities for the analysis of material containing small mammal skull remains. The method is applicable to investigations on the feeding ecology of owls and other myophagous birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]