The ability of small mammals to exploit environmental resources, based
upon a rapid adaptation to short-term changes in population and/or the
environment, as well as to a variety of local conditions, implies a
strong impact upon natural resources. The role played by small mammal
consumers in the flow of energy within natural and man-modified
ecosystems is therefore of equal importance to that of larger,
longer-lived species which have been studied more intensively. This
volume, first published in 1975, looks at small mammal populations with
emphasis being placed on their ecology and energy dynamics. It discusses
the most productive research techniques and research objectives. The
second part of the book deals with the roles of small mammals in
ecosystems ranging from the tropics to the tundra and special
consideration is given to the impact of rodents on man. Research workers
in the fields of mammalogy and ecology will find this an essential book
and agriculturists, foresters and anyone concerned professionally with
the control of small mammals will find much that is of value to their
work.