An analysis of trail-following behaviour in the wood mouse, Apodemus sylvaticus

Abstract. The daily movements of individual wood mice were recorded in the field using fluorescent pigments to investigate trail-following behaviour. The observed trail networks, corresponding to the accumulation of their traces over several days, were consistent with a strong tendency to follow previous traces. This was confirmed by a computer simulation of random movements modulated by trace attraction. The possible implications for the rodents' orientation mechanisms, caused by this way of moving in their home area, are discussed.