Nest site selection by the harvest mouse (Micromys minutus) on arable farmland.

Abstract

Field margins and beetle banks were systematically searched for Harvest Mouse (Micromys minutus) nests on arable farmland to investigate the selection of nesting habitat. Cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata) was selected for nest building in beetle banks with its stems providing support for the nests and the fresh growth being used for nest construction. The main nest supporting species in field margins were bramble (Rubus fruticosus) and thorns (Crataegus monogyna and Prunus spinosa). The nest was constructed with grasses intertwined within these species. Nest density was greater in the beetle banks where a greater proportion of the habitat was suitable for nest building.