A Population Study of the Prairie Vole (Microtus ochrogaster) in Northeastern Kansas

by Edwin Perry Martin

"A Population Study of the Prairie Vole (Microtus ochrogaster) in Northeastern Kansas" by Edwin P. Martin is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This comprehensive study focuses on the ecology and population dynamics of the prairie vole, outlining its significance in grassland ecosystems and its interactions with vegetation and other wildlife. At the start of the work, Martin introduces the prairie vole as a key species within Kansas grasslands, explaining its impact on vegetation and its role in local food chains. The opening section provides a detailed account of the initial challenges in studying the vole population, including previous research findings and the recovery of grassland habitats on the University of Kansas Natural History Reservation. With an emphasis on methodological rigor, the introduction sets the stage for a thorough examination of various ecological aspects including habitat preferences, population densities, life history, and food habits of the prairie vole.