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Previously, we showed that registration effort and traffic intensity explain 90% of variation in roadkill numbers, 70% of variation in numbers of recorded species and 40% of diversity variation. Here we analysed the comparatively rare roadkills of semi-aquatic mammals in Lithuania, northern Europe, covering the period of 2007–2021, relating these to monitoring effort. From over 30,000 roadkills, European beaver was registered 43 times, American mink 26 times, otter 22 times and muskrat two times, with the average roadkill indexes being 0.000065, 0.00076, 0.00061 and 0.00010 ind./km/day, and the maximum indexes being 0.067, 0.028, 0.048 and 0.016 ind./km/day, respectively. These data show the roadkills are not common events. Their occurrences did not correspond to population numbers (beaver over 40,000, American mink about 8–10,000 and otter about 3–5000 individuals in 2020–2021) nor to traffic intensity. However, for all these species, registration effort (number of times the route was driven, this being 300–400 on the most investigated routes) was the main factor, with more registrations being on the small number of best-sampled main roads. As two of these species, American mink and muskrat, are invasive species in EU, while otter is protected in most of the countries, registrations of their roadkills should be enhanced (using targeted efforts by hunters or citizen scientists for example) in order to obtain a better approximation of the roadkilled numbers of these species and thus be able to use this knowledge in species management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive mammal species outside their natural range are causing damage to native ecosystems. Raccoon dogs were first observed in Lithuania in 1948, and since then, they have spread across the country. Surveys of this species stopped in 1997; therefore, numbers and trends are currently unknown. Raccoons were first observed in Lithuania in 2012, with only a few sporadic reports over the decade. Both species are listed as EU species of concern. Between September 2019 and July 2021, we evaluated the distribution and density of these animals using camera traps (system with a motion trigger/sensor that activates a camera to take a photograph when an animal is present) at 85 locations with a total sampling effort of 11,501 camera trap days. Raccoon dogs were identified in 57 locations (67.1% of all surveyed) and raccoons in 1 location (1.2%). The average relative shooting frequency of raccoon dogs was 5.12 photos/100 days and that of raccoons was 0.18 photos/100 days. The abundance of raccoon dog was not uniform. In the northeastern part of Lithuania, their relative shooting frequency was significantly higher than in western part (6.26 and 2.31 photos/100 days, respectively; p < 0.05). Raccoons were present in only one location; however, during the study period, they were registered 21 times. This indicates that a viable population has developed and could become a source of further invasion in the nearest future, requiring immediate control actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithuanian wolves form part of the larger Baltic population, the distribution of which is continuous across the region. In this paper, we evaluate the genetic diversity of the Lithuanian wolf population using mitochondrial DNA analysis and 29 autosomal microsatellite loci. Analysis of the mtDNA control region (647 bp) revealed 5 haplotypes distributed among 29 individuals and high haplotype diversity (0.658). Two haplotypes were distributed across the country, whilst the others were restricted to eastern Lithuania. Analysis of microsatellites revealed high heterozygosity (H=0.709) and no evidence for a recent bottleneck. Using detection of first generation migrants, four individuals appeared to assign better with populations genetically differentiated from those resident in Lithuania. These immigrants were males carrying rare mitochondrial haplotypes and were encountered in the eastern part of the country, this indicates that Lithuania is subject to immigration from differentiated populations. Additionally, we did not detect any signs of recent hybridisation with dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on the reproduction of the root vole (Microtus oeconomus) in Lithuania, the margin of its geographic range, are presented in the context of litter size analysis. In Lithuania, the breeding season lasts from April until the end of October. h e average litter size was 5.93 ± 0.11 (2-14), decreasing from a mean of 8.0 embryos in June to 4.3 in October, with 2-3 litters per year. The average body mass of breeding females was 40.4 ± 0.6 (16.5-77.0) g. However, 6.25% of females start breeding with a body mass of under 25 g. Litter size was found to increase from south to north in the geographical distribution range of the species and is described by the regression Litter size = 0.11147 x latitude - 0.2646 (R² = 0.79). The small litter size and the comparatively small number of litters in the Lithuanian population indicate that reproduction is similar to that of other populations in the southern part of the geographical range of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the estimation of body mass in Microtus oeconomus, best models were selected from 26 skull and pelvic characters, measured in 824 individuals trapped in Lithuania between 2001 and 2009. Correlations between the 20 measured characters and body mass were strong (r=0.6, p<0.0001). Seven linear and multiple regressions predicted body mass with an error in the range of 5.5-15.0% from the actual (measured) body mass, and this difference was not significant. This high degree of accuracy in estimation allows the use of the presented models to evaluate body mass from the prey remains of M. oeconomus, using various characters measurable in the remains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which examined the changes in the distribution of root vole (Microtus oeconomus) in Lithuania. The study identified the stability of species distribution and abundance over a long period of time. It found that 13 localities with proportions of Microtus oeconomus are located in the south and west of Lithuania. Study authors discovered that the main habitats for Microtus oeconomus include reedbeds, meadows, shrubby areas and shores of water bodies. They also found the factors that influence the changes in Microtus oeconomus distribution, including land use, land reclamation systems, and naturalization of land reclamation systems.

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]

The aim of this study was to assess pelvis morphometry in the root vole (Microtus oeconomus) and to test if pelvis measurements or indices differ depending on vole sex, age and, particularly in females, breeding history. After measuring the length of the ischium (P1), the greatest length of the pubis (P2) and the width of the pubis (P3) in 445 vole individuals strapped in 2004-2008 in Lithuania, it was found that the most significant differences in the pelvis between males and females of M. oeconomus were in adult animals. The main sex-related difference in the pelvis of these voles was the width of the pubis. In all age groups of males, index P1/P2 was higher compared to females, while P1/P3 and P2/P3 were statistically significantly lower (P<0.05). After puberty, the width of the pubis gained almost 3- fold increase in males, while in females it remained the same. According to parousity, the length of the ischium and the greatest pelvis length were growing in the following order: nulliparous < primigravid < primiparous < multiparous females (differences not significant). The width of the pubis and index P1/P2 did not change. Differences in indices P1/P3 and P2/P3 were statistically significant between nulliparous and primiparous females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is a highly invasive species, therefore knowledge regarding the population size, trends and spatial distribution is important for species assessment and for the planning of control measures. In Lithuania, however, as such surveys would require the concerted action of many hunting clubs, raccoon dog surveys have not been carried out since 1997. In this study, we investigated whether roadkill data for the species could be used as a means for monitoring the population. For the period in which surveys were conducted, we found a strong correlation between the numbers surveyed and the numbers of animals hunted and between those hunted and the number of roadkills. Therefore, we consider that roadkill counts may be used as a proxy for a survey at the countrywide scale. Practical implementation of the method is proposed. The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is one of the most frequently killed species on Lithuanian roads. As an invasive species, up-to-date knowledge of population size, trends and spatial distribution is critically important both for species assessment and for the planning of control measures. In Lithuania, however, raccoon dog surveys have not been carried out since 1997. We investigated, therefore, whether roadkill counts on predefined routes could be used as a proxy for a survey. Our dataset includes survey numbers for the period 1956–1997, hunting bag sizes for 1965–2020 (including the spatial distribution of the hunting bag in 2018–2020) and roadkill data relating to 1551 individuals between 2002–2020. At the most local scale, that of the hunting areas of hunting clubs, correlations between the numbers of hunted and roadkilled individuals were negative and insignificant or absent. At the country scale, however, we found significant correlation both between the numbers surveyed and hunted in 1965–1997 (r = 0.88), and between those hunted and the number of roadkills in 2002–2020 (r = 0.56–0.69). Therefore, we consider that roadkill counts on predefined and stable routes may be used as a proxy for a survey at the country scale. Practical implementation of the method is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Granivorous murids, namely striped field (Apodemus agrarius), yellow-necked (Apodemus flavicollis), and harvest (Micromys minutus) mice, occur in a variety of habitats and live syntopically in agricultural areas. Agroecosystems may be quite complex isotopically with δ15N values being influenced by many internal and external fluxes. Using isotopic (δ15N and δ13C) compositions from hair samples, we analysed isotopic niches of granivores in apple and plum orchards, raspberry and currant plantations, and nearby meadows in Lithuania. As the main hypothesis, we expected differences in the isotopic niches of these species (being a proxy for their diet), minimising interspecific competition. Striped field and yellow-necked mice were trapped in every habitat. Therefore, syntopic co-occurrence of granivores depended on the presence of harvest mice in the apple orchards, raspberry plantations, and meadows that served as control habitats. All species were fully separated according to δ15N values, presuming different amounts of food of animal origin in their diet. The separation of species according to δ13C was not expressed in all habitats. The core dietary niches of these species were fully separated in the apple orchards and raspberry plantations. Intraspecific differences of the isotopic niche were not present in any of the three species: that is, resources were equally used by males and females, adults, subadults, and juveniles. In agricultural habitats, diets and trophic positions of syntopic granivorous small mammals are not known sufficiently. Agroecosystems may be quite complex isotopically and the most complex situation concerns the nitrogen-15 isotope as δ15N values are influenced by many internal and external fluxes. We analysed the isotopic niches of striped field (Apodemus agrarius), yellow-necked (Apodemus flavicollis), and harvest (Micromys minutus) mice living sympatrically and syntopically in apple and plum orchards, raspberry and currant plantations, and nearby meadows that were used as control habitats. Carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope ratios from hair samples were used as a proxy for their diet. As the main hypothesis, we expected differences in the isotopic niches of these three species, minimising interspecific competition. All species were fully separated according to δ15N values, presuming different amounts of food of animal origin in their diet. The separation of species according to δ13C was not expressed in all habitats. The core dietary niches of these species were fully separated in the apple orchards and raspberry plantations. Intraspecific differences of the isotopic niche were not present in any of the three species: that is, resources were equally used by males and females, adults, subadults, and juveniles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single specimen of the Mediterranean water shrew (Neomys anomalus) was trapped in west Lithuania in 2009. Characteristics of N. anomalus shared by this specimen include: the keel on the ventral side of the tail only extending to the proximal third of the tail length, and the hind foot length and several skull measurements being significantly smaller than N. fodiens. The habitat of the specimen was flooded sedge meadows and reeds. A review of the skull collection at the Nature Research Centre (Vilnius, Lithuania) and its associated biometric data yielded two more N. anomalus individuals from the west of the country. These records extend the species' distribution by over 350 km to the north and represent a new mammal species for Lithuania and the Baltic countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildlife mortality caused by vehicles is a serious conservation and economic problem as collisions with large mammals are global, pervasive and increasing. We analysed 14,989 reports of ungulate-vehicle collisions (UVC) that occurred in Lithuania from 2002 to 2017. We analysed UVC data for four major ungulate species (roe deer, red deer, moose and wild boar) and checked for potential seasonal or daily trends. The temporal distribution of collisions was species-dependent. UVC analysis showed strong monthly and hourly pattern. Most occurrences took place before or during sunrise (dawn) and after or during sunset (dusk) during the year. In spring, the highest UVC peaks occurred early in the morning and late in the evening, while in winter these peaks occurred in late mornings and early evenings. With most UVC occurring on Fridays, daily variations were weak. We conclude that temporal variations of UVC distributions are result of a complex interaction of phenological factors and animal behaviour. The information provided in this study reinforces the knowledge on the dynamics and patterns of UVC and represents an important element for the identification of mitigation measures. Our findings suggest that efforts to reduce UVC should also focus on driver attitudes considering the seasonal and daily variations in UVC. Image 1 • Temporal distribution of animal-vehicle collisions (UVC) is species dependent. • Numbers of traffic accidents are decreasing, numbers of UVC – increasing. • Relationship between temporal patterns and UVC occurrences is not random. • UVC mainly occur after sunset and before sunrise and in closest time. • The total number of UVC was highest during spring and autumn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We analysed 21,911 wild mammal roadkills of 32 species in Lithuania, 2002–2017. • Police Traffic Service data was compared to data from professional biologists. • Professional data led to a reevaluation of roadkills, hotspot numbers and locations. • Traffic intensity and ungulate population size explained 63–93% of roadkills. • Road characteristics and sampling effort explained 90% of variation in roadkill numbers. With considerable under-reporting of roadkills, the impact of transport on biodiversity is mostly underestimated. The main goal of this study was to compare official roadkill records with data collected by professional biologists. On roads with different traffic intensities, we compared species richness, diversity indices and species composition with regard to the data sources and performed roadkill hotspot analysis. Biologists recorded more mammal species killed, a higher diversity index and a different composition of dominants in the roadkills, as well as different numbers and locations of hotspots. Traffic intensity and population size explained 63–93% of the variation in roadkill numbers in ungulates. Professional monitoring effort and traffic intensity explained nearly 90% of variation in roadkill numbers, 70% of variation in recorded species and 40% of diversity variation. With greater accuracy than available official data, professional roadkill diversity data should be used in wildlife-vehicle accident analysis and in planning road safety infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Representatives of genus Sarcocystis (Apicomplexa, Sarcocystidae) are parasites of mammals, birds, and reptiles. They are characterized by two-host prey-predator life cycle. Rodents are reservoirs of zoonotic diseases and play a significant role in a spread of pathogens. At present, about 40 Sarcocystis species are known to form sarcocysts in muscles and brain of rodents. Most of Sarcocystis spp. in these hosts have been characterized by morphological methods and life cycle investigations. In the present study a new Sarcocystis species, S. myodes is described in skeletal muscles of the bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus) from Lithuania using morphological, molecular, and phylogenetic analysis. Based on five genetic loci, S. myodes was most closely related to Sarcocystis spp. using predatory mammals as their definitive hosts. The analysis of previous studies indicates that Sarcocystis spp. diversity in voles is not fully revealed. Furthermore, some Sarcocystis spp. formerly detected in voles are important pathogens. Therefore, further molecular examinations are needed for the revision of Sarcocystis spp. in these hosts. Numerous rodent species have been broadly examined for Sarcocystis parasites. Nevertheless, recent investigations on Sarcocystis spp. in voles are lacking. As many as 45 bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus) captured in several locations in Lithuania were examined in the present study. Based on morphological, genetic, and phylogenetic results, sarcocysts detected in one bank vole were described as Sarcocystis myodes n. sp. Using light microscopy analysis, the observed sarcocysts were ribbon-shaped, 6000–3000 × 70–220 µm in size. Sarcocysts were characterized by a relatively thin (about 1 μm) and apparently smooth cyst wall. The lancet-shaped bradyzoites were 9.6–12.0 × 3.1–4.6 μm in size. By transmission electron microscopy, the sarcocyst wall was up to 1 μm thick, parasitophorous vacuolar membrane had small knob-like blebs. Based on 18S rDNA, 28S rDNA, cox1, rpoB, and ITS1 loci, S. myodes showed highest similarity with S. ratti from the black rat (Rattus rattus). According to phylogenetic placement, S. myodes was most closely related to Sarcocystis spp. that employ predatory mammals as their definitive hosts. Morphologically, sarcocysts of S. myodes have similar features to those of S. cernae, S. dirumpens, and S. montanaensis described in voles, however, they use birds of prey or snakes as their definitive hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, Bartonella infections are known to inflict a wide range of mammals and, within rodents alone, more than 20 Bartonella species have been detected. There is, however, a lack of studies on the presence of Bartonella spp. in rodents in the Baltic region. We analysed 580 individuals belonging to eight small rodent species trapped in coastal and continental areas of Lithuania during 2015–2016. The presence of Bartonella DNA was examined by real-time PCR targeting the ssrA gene. The molecular characterization of the bacteria strains was based on sequence analysis of two housekeeping genes (rpoB, groEL) and the intergenic spacer region (ITS). For the rodents overall, the prevalence of Bartonella spp. was 54.8%, while the prevalence figures for each of the individual species were 8.3% in M. musculus, 15.8% in A. agrarius, 33.3% in M. arvalis, 42.4% in M. glareolus, 53.4% in M. oeconomus, 57.5% in M. minutus, 79.6% in A. flavicollis to 80% in M. agrestis. Sequence analysis revealed that the Bartonella strains belonged to the B. grahamii, B. taylorii, B. rochalimae, B. tribocorum, B. coopersplainsensis and B. doshiae genogroups. The highest Bartonella infection rates and the highest species diversity were both detected in rodents captured in the coastal area. To our knowledge, these are the first reports of the presence of B. coopersplainsensis, B. doshiae and B. tribocorum in Lithuania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Some species of Sarcocystis parasites form cysts in the brains of small mammals. These parasites have been shown in laboratory experiments to be transmitted by Buteo buzzards. However, there is a lack of studies identifying these parasites in natural definitive hosts. In the current investigation, we examined brain tissues of small mammals and small intestines of two buzzard species collected in Lithuania for Sarcocystis spp. Species of Sarcocystis were confirmed using DNA sequence analysis. Of the eleven small mammal species inspected, only bank voles were infected with cysts of Sarcocystis glareoli. The prevalence of this parasite in the brain of vole hosts reached 9.1%. Based on genetic examination, half of the investigated common buzzards were positive for S. glareoli. Furthermore, two Sarcocystis species, including a putative new species, were detected in the small intestines of rough-legged buzzards. Our results indicate that Buteo buzzards play an important role in transmitting rarely studied Sarcocystis parasites forming cysts in the tissues of small mammals. Representatives of the genus Sarcocystis are worldwide distributed apicomplexan parasites characterised by two-host prey-predator relationships. Sarcocystis spp. produce sarcocysts in the muscles and brains of intermediate hosts and develop sporocysts in the intestines of definitive hosts. Two species, Sarcocystis glareoli and Sarcocystis microti, previously assigned to the genus Frenkelia, form cysts in the brains of rodents and are transmitted through the common buzzard (Buteo buteo). In our study, brain samples of 694 small mammals caught in different regions of Lithuania were examined for Sarcocystis spp. Additionally, 10 B. buteo and two rough-legged buzzards (Buteo lagopus) were tested for sporocysts of the analysed parasites. Sarcocystis species were identified based on 28S rRNA sequence comparison. Of the eleven species of small mammals tested, Sarcocystis parasites were observed only in the bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus). Cysts of S. glareoli were detected in 34 out of 374 C. glareolus (9.1%, 95% CI = 6.4–12.5%). Molecular investigation showed the presence of only S. glareoli in the intestines of 50% of B. buteo. Furthermore, two species, Sarcocystis sp. Rod3 and Sarcocystis sp. Rod4, were confirmed in B. lagopus. Our results demonstrate the need for further studies on Sarcocystis cycling between rodents and birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The tundra vole's (Alexandromys oeconomus) distribution in Lithuania has been documented for 70 years, yet its genetic diversity remains unexplored. We analyzed vole samples from northern and western sites in Lithuania, using mtDNA sequence analysis. Despite landscape barriers, our phylogenetic analyses placed Lithuanian voles in the Central European phylogroup, suggesting an origin from northeastern Poland. Genetic diversity in Lithuanian A. oeconomus at the mtDNA loci was low compared to other European samples, revealing distinctions from Poland and Northern Europe. Genetic divergence among western and northern Lithuanian samples, coupled with low variability, provides novel insights into species phylogeography and the influence of barriers on colonization dynamics. The distribution and spread of the tundra vole (Alexandromys oeconomus) in Lithuania have been documented over the last 70 years, but the genetic diversity of the species has not been studied. In this study, we examined A. oeconomus trapped in three sites in northern and western Lithuania using mtDNA sequence analysis of the cytb and control region. The western and northern sites are separated by anthropogenic landscape barriers. The western site is subject to regular spring flooding. Phylogenetic analyses of the studied individuals placed them in the Central European phylogroup, suggesting that Lithuanian A. oeconomus originated from northeastern Poland. In Lithuania, the genetic diversity of A. oeconomus at both mtDNA loci was relatively low (Hd < 0.6, π < 0.002) compared to that found in other European samples (Hd = 0.833–0.958; π = 0.00402–0.01552). Individuals analyzed in Lithuania were genetically different from samples collected in Poland and Northern Europe (ΦST > 0.15, p < 0.05). The genetic divergence between the western and northern samples of A. oeconomus in Lithuania, together with the low genetic variability among the voles studied, provides new insights into the phylogeography of the species and the influence of barriers on the colonization of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Small mammals not only play an important role in ecosystems, but they also can transmit a wide range of pathogens to humans and domestic animals. The data on protozoan Sarcocystis parasites in orchard-dwelling small mammals are still scarce. Members of the genus Sarcocystis form sarcocysts in the muscles of intermediate hosts and develop sporocysts in the intestines of definitive hosts. In the present study, 679 muscle samples of small mammals, collected in commercial orchards and berry plantations in Lithuania, were screened for Sarcocystis parasites via DNA analysis. The prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. was low as only nine pooled muscle samples were found to contain the parasites examined. Four species were identified in the examined small mammals, including two potentially new Sarcocystis species that were detected in the muscles of voles. The phylogenetic results suggested that birds and mammals are the definitive hosts of the Sarcocystis spp. identified in the current study. Small mammals are an important group of wildlife that can transmit pathogens to humans and animals. There is a lack of comprehensive studies on the protozoan parasites of the genus Sarcocystis in agricultural areas. The aim of the current research was to evaluate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp., and to identify the parasite species found in the skeletal muscles of rodents and insectivores from commercial orchards. A total of 679 muscle samples from small mammals, mainly rodents (n = 674), belonging to eight species were examined. Muscle samples were pooled into groups, then digested, and the presence of the Sarcocystis species was confirmed by molecular methods. The examined parasites were determined in five rodent species, Apodemus agrarius, A. flavicollis, Clethrionomys glareolus, Microtus arvalis, and M. oeconomus. The prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. was low: 2.23% in voles and 0.79% in mice. Based on a sequence comparison of cox1 and 28S rDNA, four species were identified: S. myodes, Sarcocystis cf. strixi, Sarcocystis sp. Rod1, and Sarcocystis sp. Rod2. This is the first report of S. myodes in A. agrarius, A. flavicollis, and M. arvalis. The identified species were most closely related to Sarcocystis spp., and were transmitted by predatory mammals and birds. Future studies are needed to describe the species morphologically, as well as to define the host spectrum and to evaluate their possible pathogenicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phylogeography of the filed vole (Microtus agrestis) in Eurasia was thoroughly examined using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) of the cytochrome b (cytb) gene. However, the former conclusions about genetic variability and the contact zone of eastern and western genetic lineages in Lithuania were based on the analysis of a very limited number of individuals. In the present study, we examined 74 M. agrestis individuals trapped in four sites in the eastern, northern, and western parts of the country using sequence analysis of cytb and D-loop. Totals of 25 new cytb haplotypes and 19 new D-loop haplotypes were identified for this species. Higher nucleotide diversity was observed for D-loop (π = 0.01147 ± 0.00070) as compared to cytb (π = 0.00694 ± 0.00039). The phylogenetic analysis based on both loci revealed the presence of two genetic lineages, i.e., the eastern and western ones, which were mixed in Lithuanian samples, with the exception of the Rusnė site in the west of the country. Only the western lineage was observed in this island population of M. agrestis; the sample differed in low genetic variability and genetic differentiation from other investigated samples. We found D-loop to be an appropriate locus for the evaluation of the genetic variability of M. agrestis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Europe, zoonotic Leptospira spp. and orthohantaviruses are mainly associated with specific rodent hosts. These pathogens cause febrile human diseases with similar symptoms and disease progression. In Lithuania, the presence of Dobrava‐Belgrade orthohantavirus (DOBV), Tula orthohantavirus (TULV) and Leptospira spp. in rodent reservoirs is still unknown, and Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) was detected in bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus) at only one site. Therefore, we collected and screened 1617 rodents and insectivores from Lithuania for zoonotic (re‐)emerging Leptospira and orthohantaviruses. We detected Leptospira DNA in six rodent species, namely striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius), yellow‐necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis), bank vole, common vole (Microtus arvalis), field vole (Microtus agrestis) and root vole (Microtus oeconomus). Leptospira DNA was detected with an overall mean prevalence of 4.4% (range 3.7%–7.9% per rodent species). We detected DOBV RNA in 5.6% of the striped field mice, PUUV RNA in 1% of bank voles and TULV RNA in 4.6% of common voles, but no Leptospira DNA in shrews and no hantavirus‐Leptospira coinfections in rodents. Based on the complete coding sequences of the three genome segments, two distant DOBV phylogenetic lineages in striped field mice, one PUUV strain in bank voles and two TULV strains in common voles were identified. The Leptospira prevalence for striped field mice and yellow‐necked mice indicated a significant negative effect of the distance to water points. The detection of (re‐)emerging human pathogenic Leptospira and three orthohantaviruses in rodent reservoirs in Lithuania calls for increased awareness of public health institutions and allows the improvement of molecular diagnostics for pathogen identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populations of the forest dormouse (Dryomys nitedula Pallas, 1778) are widespread across Europe and south-western Asia, but their ability to survive in a mosaic of forest stands is insufficient, and they are extremely scarce in Russia. In 2013–2019, we studied the taxonomic and ecological composition of forest stands in the Middle Volga. Forest dormice were recorded in 30% of the investigated forest stands, being 4–70 ha in size. Habitats of the forest dormouse were characterized by higher species richness of woody plants, by presence of woody plant species with juicy fruits, dry fruits and seeds, and by dominance of shrubs (52.1% of all plant species). Out of 98 species of gymnosperms and angiosperms, species belonging to families Rosaceae and Salicaceae dominated. Out of the 98 registered plants, 43 species formed juicy and 55 species formed dry fruits and seeds, including Quercus robur L., Corylus avellana L., Tilia cordata Mill. Alien plant species (26.4%) had no impact on the habitat attractivity. Favorable conditions for existence the forest dormouse in the Middle Volga are secured by high diversity of woody plants in the forest stands, providing these animals with plant-based food. Usage of only optimal habitats resulted in patchy distribution of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conservation of large carnivores is a formidable challenge for biodiversity conservation. Using a data set on the past and current status of brown bears (Ursus arctos), Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), gray wolves (Canis lupus), and wolverines (Gulo gulo) in European countries, we show that roughly one-third of mainland Europe hosts at least one large carnivore species, with stable or increasing abundance in most cases in 21st-century records. The reasons for this overall conservation success include protective legislation, supportive public opinion, and a variety of practices making coexistence between large carnivores and people possible. The European situation reveals that large carnivores and people can share the same landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Primary objectives of national parks usually include both, the protection of natural processes and species conservation. When these objectives conflict, as occurs because of the cascading effects of large mammals (i.e., ungulates and large carnivores) on lower trophic levels, park managers have to decide upon the appropriate management while considering various local circumstances. 2. To analyse if ungulate management strategies are in accordance with the objectives defined for protected areas, we assessed the current status of ungulate management across European national parks using the naturalness concept and identified the variables that influence the management. 3. We collected data on ungulate management from 209 European national parks in 29 countries by means of a large-scale questionnaire survey. Ungulate management in the parks was compared by creating two naturalness scores. The first score reflects ungulate and large carnivore species compositions, and the second evaluates human intervention on ungulate populations. We then tested whether the two naturalness score categories are influenced by the management objectives, park size, years since establishment, percentage of government-owned land, and human impact on the environment (human influence index) using two generalized additive mixed models. 4. In 67.9% of the national parks, wildlife is regulated by culling (40.2%) or hunting (10.5%) or both (17.2%). Artificial feeding occurred in 81.3% of the national parks and only 28.5% of the national parks had a non-intervention zone covering at least 75% of the area. Furthermore, ungulate management differed greatly among the different countries, likely because of differences in hunting traditions and cultural and political backgrounds. Ungulate management was also influenced by park size, human impact on the landscape, and national park objectives, but after removing these variables from the full model the reduced models only showed a small change in the deviance explained. In areas with higher anthropogenic pressure, wildlife diversity tended to be lower and a higher number of domesticated species tended to be present. Human intervention (culling and artificial feeding) was lower in smaller national parks and when park objectives followed those set by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 5. Our study shows that many European national parks do not fulfil the aims of protected area management as set by IUCN guidelines. In contrast to the USA and Canada, Europe currently has no common ungulate management policy within national parks. This lack of a common policy together with differences in species composition, hunting traditions, and cultural or political context has led to differences in ungulate management among European countries. To fulfil the aims and objectives of national parks and to develop ungulate management strategies further, we highlight the importance of creating a more integrated European ungulate management policy to meet the aims of national parks. • We used the naturalness score to assess ungulate management in protected areas. • Ungulate management in national parks varied greatly among European countries. • Ungulate management reflects differences in legislation, policy and traditions. • An integrated European ungulate management framework for national parks is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]