Subject
Voles Books
Best books
Henry S. (Henry Sheldon) Fitch
Aspects of Reproduction and Development in the Prairie Vole (Microtus ochrogaster)
"Aspects of Reproduction and Development in the Prairie Vole (Microtus ochrogaster)" by Henry S. Fitch is a scientific publication produced in the mid-20th century. This thorough biological study focuses on the prairie vole, detailing aspects of its reproduction and development in relation to ecological factors and population dynamics. Written in the context of the University of Kansas Museum of Natural History publications, it sheds light on the species' mating habits, gestation, litter sizes, and other demographic characteristics over a four-year period. The book provides an extensive examination of the prairie vole's reproductive cycle, identifying that the species breeds year-round, with varying rates of reproduction influenced by environmental conditions. Fitch's study includes data on litter sizes averaging around 3.37 young, gestation periods of approximately 21 days, and observations about the social behavior of voles that suggest a non-territorial and somewhat communal lifestyle. Through live-trapping and careful observations, Fitch presents critical insights into the care of young, potential cannibalism among voles, and the impact of environmental factors on population stability and changes over time. The combination of meticulous data collection and detailed observations makes this publication a valuable resource for understanding the ecology and lifecycle of the prairie vole.
Sydney Anderson
The Baculum in Microtine Rodents
"The Baculum in Microtine Rodents" by Sydney Anderson is a scientific publication written in the mid-20th century. This work focuses on the anatomy of the baculum—a bone found in the penis of many placental mammals—and its implications in determining the taxonomy and relationships among various species of microtine rodents, particularly within the genus "Microtus". The text includes detailed anatomical descriptions, methodologies used for specimen collection, and discussions around the significance of the baculum in understanding species variation and evolution. At the start of the publication, Anderson introduces the importance of the baculum in microtine rodents, emphasizing its utility in taxonomic studies when combined with other anatomical features. The opening sets the stage for an intricate examination of previous research on the baculum from different species and varieties of rodents, including "Microtus", "Synaptomys", and "Clethrionomys". The author outlines the methods for preserving and examining the baculum, providing insights into the anatomical orientation and the variations observed across different specimens, thereby establishing a foundation for the detailed accounts that follow in the subsequent chapters.
E. Raymond (Eugene Raymond) Hall
Comments on the Taxonomy and Geographic Distribution of North American Microtines
"Comments on the Taxonomy and Geographic Distribution of North American Microtines" by E. Raymond Hall and E. Lendell Cockrum is a scientific publication written in the early 1950s. The book focuses on the classification and geographic ranges of North American microtines, a group of small rodent-like mammals, particularly voles and lemmings. It reflects a meticulous examination of existing literature and specimens to resolve discrepancies in microtine taxonomy. In their work, Hall and Cockrum systematically review various subspecies of microtines, sharing their findings on several species such as Synaptomys cooperi and Clethrionomys gapperi. They analyze taxonomic classifications, document specimen measurements, and provide geographic distribution data to clarify the relationships and range of these rodents. Ultimately, the publication offers valuable insights into the complexities of microtine taxonomy and biology, serving as a crucial resource for researchers in mammalogy and related fields.
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