Technical Appendix 7: Mammalia Baseline Survey

Transcription

1 Ix-Xaghra l-hamra and Tal-Qortin, l/o Mellieha PROPOSED GOLF COURSE AND SUPPORTING FACILITIES Technical Appendix 7: Mammalia Baseline Survey Supporting Document for Environmental Impact Statement Prepared by: JOHN J. BORG On behalf of Malta Tourism Authority September 2005

2 Environmental Impact Statement Mammalia Baseline Survey Report for: Malta Tourism Authority Auberge D'Italie Merchants Street Valletta CMR 02 Malta September 2005 Authored by: John J. Borg Issued by: Adrian Mallia Approved by: Kevin Morris 2 nd Floor, BSL Centre B kara Road San Gwann SGN 08 info@adi-associates.com Tel/Fax: /

3 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION...1 DESK STUDY...1 Materials & Methods...1 Area of Study...2 Systematic List of Maltese Mammalian Fauna...2 FIELD WORK...22 Methods...22 Visits to Study Area & Species Observed...23 FIGURES Figure 1: Location of Live Traps...26 Figure 2: Transect lines and routes of mobile surveys...27 Figure 3: Location of droppings...27 Figure 3: Location of droppings...28 TABLES Table 1: Visits to Study Area...23 Table 2: Species observed (excluding those trapped)...24 Table 3: Mammals caught in Live-Traps...24 i

4 MAMMALIA BASELINE SURVEY INTRODUCTION 1. The purpose of the study is to describe the current mammal population on the site of the proposed Golf Course project, in accordance with MEPA s draft Terms of Reference and BS 4142:1997. This report is in two parts: a desk study and a report of survey. DESK STUDY 2. The Maltese Islands are host to some twenty different species of terrestrial mammals. Fifty percent of these mammals are bats; they have been present in Malta since at least the late Pleistocene, as demonstrated by bone remains from Ghar Dalam. The remaining ten mammals have been introduced into the Maltese islands by man. 3. The Maltese terrestrial fauna includes the following species: Insectivora; Algerian Hedgehog Atelerix algirus fallax, Pygmy White-toothed Shrew Suncus etruscus etruscus and Sicilian Shrew Crocidura sicula calypso. Chiroptera; Greater Horse-shoe Bat Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Lesser Horse-shoe Bat R. hipposideros minimus, Schreiber s Bat Miniopterus schreibersii, Maghrebian Bat Myotis punicus, Serotin Eptesicus serotinus, Noctule Nyctalus noctula, Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus, Kuhl s Pipistrelle P. kuhlii, Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus and European Free-tailed Bat Tadarida teniotis. Carnivora; Common Weasel Mustela nivalis. Rodentia; Wood Mouse Apodemus sylvaticus, Black Rat Rattus rattus, Brown Rat R. norvegicus, and Western House Mouse Mus domesticus. Lagomorpha; Common Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus. Materials & Methods 4. This report gives an overview of records of terrestrial mammals from the Xaghra l-hamra and Tal-Qortin area in Manikata (the Area of Study) collected by the 1

5 author over an eighteen-year period. An on going study was initiated in 1987, with systematic visits throughout the Maltese Islands, including the Xaghra l-hamra area. Data were collected through direct observations, through the use of an electronic bat detector, by means of live traps, collection of dead specimens, and through discussions with farmers. Area of Study 5. The Area of Study on which this report is based is the coastal area to the west, north, and south of Manikata, known as ix-xaghra l-hamra and Tal-Qortin, as identified for the possible development of an 18-hole golf course. (See Figure 1.) Systematic List of Maltese Mammalian Fauna Order: Insectivora Gray, 1827 Sub-order: Erinaceomorpha Family: Erinaceidae Fischer, 1817 Genus: Atelerix (Lereboullet, 1842) Atelerix algirus (Lereboullet, 1842), Qanfud tal-ferq, Algerian Hedgehog Morphometrics: The Algerian Hedgehog is a mammal of small dimensions with a body length ranging between 225 and 275mm and a tail reaching a length of 20-25mm. Distribution: This species of hedgehog is present in Northwest Africa, but it is also found in the southern parts of Spain, the Balearic Islands, and the southwestern coast of France. Origin of Maltese Population: No hedgehog remains were ever found in Maltese Quaternary deposits and there is reason to believe that the hedgehog is a "recent" addition to the Maltese fauna. Holocene skeletal remains have been found, amongst other places, in the cultural layers of Ghar Dalam (Storch 1970). It is generally agreed that the Phoenicians introduced the Algerian Hedgehog into Spain, Southern France, and possibly also the Maltese Islands around 1,000 BC, probably as a means of pest control. In the 19 th Century, Chevalier Antonio Schembri introduced the hedgehog on the island of Comino to control the large cockroach population there. The hedgehog was first recorded for the Maltese islands by Gulia (1858). He gave the name Erinaceus europeaus for the Maltese Hedgehog and this was followed by subsequent authors. In 1963, doubts arose on the true identity of the Maltese hedgehog. Specimens of Maltese hedgehogs were sent to the Natural History Museum in London by G. Lanfranco and there it was confirmed that our hedgehog was in fact the North African species Atelerix algirus. 2

6 Further research have all confirmed that A. algirus is the only species of hedgehog present in the Maltese Islands. Presence: The Algerian Hedgehog is present on Malta, Gozo, and on Comino but is absent from all the other smaller islands. Two colour morphs are recognised: one being a light coloured shade and the other of a darker colour. Both shades are frequently encountered but the lighter shade appears to predominate. Status: This species is frequent to common in most areas in Malta and Gozo, its status on Comino is not well-known. Healthy populations have been recorded in the Northwest part of Malta, especially between Manikata and Rabat. A healthy population is known at Munxar in Gozo with up to twenty individuals frequently counted near a rich food source. Actual numbers are unknown but they may be on the decline due to increase in traffic along country lanes and the use of pesticides in agriculture. Status in the study area: The Ghajn Tuffieha Manikata area supports a very healthy population of the Algerian Hedgehog. Previous observations by the author ( ) revealed a population density of more than 10 individuals per square kilometre. Habitat: The preferred habitat of the hedgehog is densely vegetated land, marshlands, cultivated land, and valleys. It is also frequently encountered in urban and sub-urban areas. Ecology and Breeding Biology: Hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal but may also venture out in broad daylight. In the Maltese Islands, they have no natural predators although the ever-increasing stray cat population may be cause for concern for the survival of this species. Hedgehogs do not burrow; they use dry leaves to construct their nest and sleeping site. Because of the mild winters, hedgehogs do not hibernate in Malta, but they may go into a state of torpor for short periods during cold spells. During this period of sleep, the body temperature falls to that of their surroundings and the heartbeat is also very much reduced. The nest is constructed under thick vegetation, piles of wood or in rubble walls. Hedgehogs give birth from May to October, mostly until mid September. Females may produce up to two litters each year, with each litter containing between 4 and 5 young. After a gestation period of about days, the young are born, blind but not naked. At birth the spines are not visible, as they are covered by the swollen skin, but soon after birth the skin shrinks and the spines are revealed; their eyes open when they are about 12 days old. The young remain in the nest for a period of about 3 weeks, when the mother takes out the family each night in 3

7 search of food. All the young survive birth; unlike for example, rabbits that suffer a high embryo mortality rate. However, if the mother is disturbed soon after birth, she may eat her offspring. It is thought that between 20 and 30% of the young die in their first month of life. Feeding & Diet: The Hedgehog feeds mainly on insects, molluscs, and other invertebrates. It occasionally also preys on small birds, micro-mammals, and young snakes. Conservation: The main threat to the species still appears to be road mortality but the increase in feral cat population is also having a drastic effect on the hedgehog population. Anecdotal evidence from an area in Rabat, where cats were virtually absent in the first half of the 1990s, indicates that hedgehogs were frequently seen in the grounds of the Catacombs but their numbers started to decline as soon as the cat population started to increase in the latter part of the 1990s. Destruction of their natural habitat may also be affecting numbers. Furthermore, an unknown number of hedgehogs are still taken by some people to be kept as pets. 4

8 Sub-order: Soricomorpha Family: Soricidae Fischer, 1817 Subfamily: Crocidurinae Milne-Edwards Genus: Suncus Ehrenberg, 1832 Suncus etruscus (Savi, 1822) Bugeddum Zghir, Pygmy White-toothed Shrew Morphometrics: One of the smallest mammals in the world, and Malta s smallest mammal. Head and body length between 35 and 52mm, tail 24-30mm, hind foot 7-8mm, weight g (Borg ). Distribution: Southern Europe, Mediterranean Islands, and North Africa; also in Asia. Presence: Present in Malta, not recorded from Gozo and the smaller islands. Status in the Study Area: An Etruscan Shrew has been reported caught by a cat in spring Another young individual was reported dead near the Manikata Church in summer The species retiring and nocturnal habits as well as their shyness from exploring live traps render this species extremely difficult to assess and study. Habitat: Coastal as well as inland. Present in urban, sub-urban, as well as rural habitats; from sea level to the highest parts of Malta. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Pairs form during the breeding season and tolerate juveniles for a long time in the nest. During winter, they become aggressive towards any conspecifics. The lateral flank glands, which give off a strong musky odour, are especially developed in males during the breading season. Births take place from early March to September. It is believed that all sub-adults reach sexual maturity after their first winter. The gestation period is of 26 / 27 days (in captivity), litter size 2-5 with up to 5 litters per year (in captivity). The young are born blind and naked, and weighing only 0.2g. Their eyes open on the 13 th day and they are weaned after 20 days. Following their tenth day, the young are moved; if disturbed the female leads them by caravanning. Feeding & Diet: Active mainly at dawn and dusk, to a lesser extent also at night; feeds mainly on invertebrates (up to the size of grasshoppers). Conservation Problems: The species is legally protected. Nonetheless, it is occasionally killed when mistaken for a mouse. It is frequently taken by cats, especially during the warmer months. It is very sensitive to insecticides and herbicides. 5

9 Order: Chiroptera Blumenbach, 1774 Family: Rhinolphidae Gray, 1825 Sub-family: Rihinolophinae Gray, 1825 Genus: Rhinolophus Lacépéde, 1799 Rhinolophus hipposideros (Bechstein, 1800), Rinolofu Zghir, Lesser Horseshoe Bat Morphometrics: The Lesser Horse-shoe Bat is the smallest European Rhinolophid bat. The sub-species R.h.minimus present locally is smaller than its European congener. The head and body length ranges between 32 and 35mm, the forearm length 34-37mm, ear 11-15mm, and it is 4-5g in weight. Distribution: It is found in most of the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, south Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Poland, Czechoslovakia, Ukraine, and the Mediterranean countries and islands. Presence: A widespread bat recorded from Malta and Gozo, usually in single figures but a large winter roost of around 50 individuals is known from one locality in Malta (Borg et al 1997). Its presence has been reported by Adams (1870), Gulia (1890, 1914), Despott (1927), Lanza (1959), Van den Brink (1967), Lanfranco (1969), Savona-Ventura (1984a, 1984b), Borg (1989), Borg et al (1990), Borg et al (1997). Status: Frequent and widely distributed, but highly vulnerable to disturbance. Numbers are on the decline due to disturbance, use of pesticides in agriculture, and reduced hunting areas. Status in the Study Area: Single individuals recorded roosting in dark crevices along the north side of the valley near Manikata. Habitat: Frequents caves and other subterranean habitats, in areas with high humidity, occasionally in buildings, roosting at heights ranging from metres from the ground. While asleep every individual hangs freely and separately from the other roosting bats. It has been frequently noted feeding in overgrown areas, especially those having running water, such as at Buskett in Malta, and Lunzjata Valley in Gozo. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Males, which are first to arrive in the winter roosts, are generally more numerous than the females. One large winter roost is shared with Lesser Mouse-Eared and Grey Long-Eared bats, but although using the same cave, they roost in three different areas, away from visual contact of each another. Winter roosts are occupied between September and March, when the females move into the nurseries. 6

10 The female of this species matures sexually in its first year and mating occurs from late summer to early autumn. Aerial nuptial chases have been observed where a male flew around the female for a variable number of times then lands behind and over her. Unlike larger bat species, where copulation is a lengthy matter, in the Lesser Horseshoe Bat, it is over in a short time. In other countries, nurseries are often shared with other species, but in Malta, this bat has always been found alone. Only an estimated half or two thirds of the females in a nursery give birth. A single offspring is born, usually between mid-may and early June. The young open their eyes after 8-10 days, and are completely independent at 5-6 weeks. In exceptional cases, this bat has been recorded to reach an age of twenty years, but the average life span is of only four years. Hunting & Diet: A very skilful and fairly fast flier, with almost whirring wing movements; hunts in valley bottoms, along vegetated walls and along hedges, amongst bushes and shrubs. It flies very low to the ground at a height of around 5 meters. It is known to take prey from the ground, from rocks, and off leaves, but also in flight. Diet mainly includes small nocturnal beetles, moths, and mosquitoes. Its regular feeding spots are usually littered with insect remains. Conservation Problems: Disturbance in winter roosts, loss of roosting sites, and pesticides. 7

11 Family: Vespertilionidae Gray, 1821 Sub-family: Vespertilioninae Gray, 1821 Genus: Myotis Kaup, 1829 Myotis punicus (Felten, 1977), Farfett il-lejl Widnet il-gurdien, Mediterranean Mouse-eared Bat Morphometrics: The Mouse-eared bat of the Maltese Islands has long been a subject of debate amongst researchers. Its larger size, compared to its European congener, Myotis blythi oxygnathus has led to its confusion with the Greater Mouse- Eared Bat Myotis myotis. Distribution: This bat is restricted to Sardinia, Corsica, and Malta. It is also present in the Maghreb region of Africa. Presence: This species is found on Malta and Gozo. Recent studies have shown that inter-island movements occur frequently. The species was reported by Lanza (1959), Van den Brink (1967), and Lanfranco (1969) as M.b. oxygnathus (Monticelli); by Strelkov (1972) as M.b.omari Thomas; by Felten et al. (1977), Savona-Ventura (1984a, 1984b), Borg (1987), Borg & Cachia-Zammit (1988, 1994), Zava & Borg (1989), Borg et al (1990), Borg et al (1997), Borg (1998) presented an analysis of this bat s status, morphometrics, movements, and diet. Status: Uncommon and widely distributed, and exhibiting regular interisland/colony movements. A declining species with over 50% of the population lost in the last ten years. Status in the Study Area: The Mouse-eared Bat roosts in a number of caves in the Manikata region and these bats usually hunt over the open grounds of ix- Xaghra l-hamra, especially over fields and sparsely vegetated areas, where they feed mainly on species of Coleoptera and Odonata. Habitat: In Malta the species is essentially a cave dwelling bat, occasionally encountered also inside abandoned or seldom used human habitations. It feeds in valleys, cultivated land, and gardens. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Males are present in both winter roosts as well as in nurseries, where females start arriving by the end of March. In some localities, such as Ghar Hasan, the winter roost is also used as a nursery. In other cases, the winter roost and the nursery may be several kilometres distant from one another. The Lesser Mouse-eared bats roost by hanging freely from the ceiling, but may also enter narrow cracks. The number of bats in a roost varies from single males, to several tens of bats, with both sexes represented. No known roost exceeds one hundred individuals. In winter roosts, the Lesser Mouse-eared Bat has been found 8

12 in the company of Lesser Horseshoe bats and Grey Long-eared bats, although in separate clusters. Males wander more widely from one roost to another. Ringed individuals from roosts in Malta have been re-trapped on Gozo. Courtship takes place in late summer, and by early September, pairs engage in courting rituals. Sometimes up to four or five males have been observed mounting a single female. One male may have a harem of females. In general, the average ratio in Malta is of five females for every male, but the ratio is much lower in the two larger nurseries/roosts. Females mature in their second calendar year, when a single, naked pink coloured baby bat is born in late April or early May, depending on the weather. Unlike in most other bats, the young are left in a crèche with some females while the mother bat goes out hunting alone. The young first open their eyes when five or six days old and by the third week of their life, they are completely covered with fur. Adult teeth develop fully within 40 days from birth. They are able to fly when 20 days old and are independent after around 40 days. At least 95% of all young born manage to leave the nursery. The maximum age recorded for this species in Europe is 22 years. The oldest Lesser Mouse-eared bat in Malta, ringed when already an adult, was over10 years of age when last caught in The average life span of this bat is of 4-5 years. Feeding & Diet: The bats emerge after dark and their flight is slow and at low altitude. They pick off food from ground and in mid-air. Diet consists of Orthoptera - Acrididae, Gryllidae, Tettigoniidae 65% (Platycleis intermedia most abundant), Coleoptera - Tenebrionidae, Scarabaeidae 15%, Lepidoptera - Sphinggidae, Noctuidae 20% (Borg 1998). Conservation problems: Its large size and roosting habits, makes this species particularly prone to attacks by vandals. At least two large nurseries have been destroyed in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Human disturbance in winter roosts, illegal taking, target shooting, and pesticides are some of the causes contributing to the decline in numbers. 9

13 Genus: Pipistrellus Kaup, 1829 Pipistrellus pygamaeus (Schreber, 1774), Pipistrell, Soprano Pipistrelle Morphometrics: The smallest bat in Europe and in Malta. Head and body length 35-44mm, forearm mm, ear mm. Distribution: Found nearly all over Europe and the Mediterranean. Present also in the Balkans and in the east as far as the Caucasus Mountains. Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo, and Comino, mainly in small colonies, but roosts/nurseries of 100+ individuals also encountered. Reported by Lanza (1959), Van den Brink (1967), Lanfranco (1969), Storch (1970), Borg (1987), Borg et al (1990), Borg et al. (1997). Status: Presently, the most numerous bat on the islands; a vulnerable population, declining in numbers. Status in the Study Area: The Soprano Pipistrelle is the most common of all the five species recorded in the area. It can be frequently observed flying along the narrow streets and along paths. Single bats seasonally roost in narrow cracks and crevices in a number of buildings. It has been recorded all year round. Habitat: This is predominantly a house-dwelling bat, found in cities, towns, and villages, as well as in wooded and vegetated areas. Roosting sites are located in cracks in buildings and in narrow ventilators. Several roosts may be used in a single season. Up to now it has never been found hanging freely when asleep but always crammed in narrow crannies or cracks. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Both males and females of this species mature in their first year, although some males may mature in their second year. Pipistrelles are territorial bats, with the males retaining and vigorously defending their territory against other males, especially during the mating season. The females visit the mating roosts only temporarily and one male may have up to 10 females in his harem. Nurseries are occupied from late March to September. The young are born in late April. Naked and blind, the young first open their eyes when five days old and are able to fly at 4 weeks of age. Females usually give birth to a single offspring but twins are not infrequent. By late August, the adults abandon the nursery later followed by the young. By early October, most nurseries are deserted. The maximum age for this species recorded in Europe is 16 years, but they normally live between 4 to 5 years. Feeding & Diet: This species emerges early, sometimes even while the sun is still over the horizon. In late autumn, it may also be observed during the day. Flight is 10

14 rapid and erratic, normally between 5 and 10 metres above ground, sometimes low over ground. It moves considerable distances from the roost to hunt and it feeds in all types of habitats. In autumn, it frequents damp valley bottoms and streets, where it has been noted feeding around street lamps, and in vegetated and cultivated land. The species may feed throughout the whole night, but it frequently returns to the roost after only 1-2 hours. It feeds mainly on tiny insects, mosquitoes, and small moths. A single bat usually eats up to 2,000 mosquitoes per night. Conservation Problems: The species is highly vulnerable to disturbance, especially when encountered inside or around human habitation, where roost entrances are frequently cemented. It is also often used for target practice by bird shooters. Pesticides are also responsible for decline in its numbers. 11

15 Pipistrellus kuhli (Kuhl, 1817), Pipistrell ta' Kuhl, Kuhl's Pipistrelle Morphometrics: (Maltese Specimens) This species closely resembles the Soprano Pipistrelle but is slightly larger in size. Head and Body length 40-47mm, Forearm , Ear 12-13mm, Weight 5-10g. Distribution: Found in south and southwestern Europe along both sides of the Mediterranean, east to the Caucasus Mountains. Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo, and Comino. First mentioned by Gulia (1890) and by Lanfranco (1969), both authors listed it as rare. Recently reported as frequent (Borg et al 1990, Borg et al 1997). Status: More common than previously thought. Usually found feeding in the company of P. pipistrellus. Status in the Study Area: Kuhl s Pipistrelle is less common than P. pygmaeus. It frequents the same habitats as P. pygmaeus. Single bats have been recorded in October December and April May. Habitat: Similar to P. pygmaeus. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Very little is known about this bat, but it seems to share the same habits as those of the Soprano Pipistrelle. Roosts singly or in very small colonies of less than 10, frequently sharing roost with the Soprano Pipistrelle. Frequently observed in urban areas, feeding in the lamp-lighted zones in the company of P. pygmaeus. Females sexually mature in their first calendar year. Twin births are very frequent. Young bats are already in flight by early June. Individuals may live up to eight years. Feeding & Diet: This species emerges in late dusk or complete darkness, flying at low altitudes above ground, over water, in vegetated areas, and around white light street lamps. Flight is rapid and agile. Feeds on small flying insects. Conservation Problems: Same as Soprano Pipistrelle. 12

16 Plecotus austriascus (Fischer, 1829), Farfett il-lejl Widnejh Kbar, Grey Longeared Bat Morphometrics: (Maltese Specimens) Head and body length mm, forearm length mm, Tragus width 5-6.2mm, weight g. Distribution: Present in central and southern Europe, the Mediterranean and Balkan regions, east to Caucasus Mountains. Presence: Present on Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Reported by Adams (1870), Gulia (1890, 1914), Lanza (1959), Boffa (1966) and Van der Brink (1967). All listed it under Plecotus auritus. Reported also by Borg (1987), Borg et al (1990), and Borg et al (1997). Status: Frequent and widely distributed, vulnerable to disturbance due to roosting habits. Status in Study Area: No roosting sites of the Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus have been discovered in the Study Area but single bats have been heard and seen feeding among foliage of mature trees. Habitat: Frequents all types of habitat, from densely vegetated areas to sea cliffs. Roosts in caves and other hypogea throughout the year and, in autumn, prefers human habitations, especially from September and early October. Resistant to cold temperatures; it can be found roosting in caves with temperatures between 8 and 10 C. Normally solitary, two occasionally encountered, but may also be in the company of Lesser Horse-Shoe and Lesser Mouse-eared Bats. Hangs free from walls, but also in crevices. Ecology & Breeding Biology: This is a sedentary species, distance between summer and winter roosts less than 20km. Very little is known about the species reproductive behaviour. Mating occurs in late summer, probably through to early spring. Nurseries are small usually 5 to 10 females together. One offspring is usually born between late April and early May. The young leave the nursery by late August. Young bats are normally found inside human habitations in late summer. Feeding & Diet: This species emerges after dark. Its flight is slow and fluttering, occasionally hovering. It is very agile in confined spaces. Hunts mainly in thick vegetated areas like Buskett, Girgenti, and other tree-covered areas, and also along cliff-faces. It feeds mainly on moths, caterpillars, and spiders. Prey is picked off the ground, gleaned off leaves or in mid air. Conservation Problems: Use of pesticides and human disturbance. 13

17 ORDER: CARNIVORA Bowdich, 1821 Family: Mustelidae Fischer, 1817 Genus: Mustela Linnaeus,1758 Mustela nivalis Linnaeus, 1766, Ballotra, Weasel Morphometrics: The smallest European carnivore. Males are distinctively much larger than females. Head and body length cm (males), cm (females). Distribution: Present throughout Europe (except in Iceland and Ireland). It is present also in Asia, most of North Africa, and the Americas. Presence: Although bone remains from the late Pleistocene have been unearthed from one locality it is possible that the original stock of the present population was introduced by the Romans in 55B.C. (Borg in prep). Found only on Malta, absent from Gozo and the smaller islands. Status: Rare, but widely distributed. Status in Study Area: The Weasel is frequently reported in the Manikata area, where it is believed to hold a healthy population. Singles have been recorded along rubble walls in late autumn and throughout spring. Habitat: Found in all types of habitats, may also be encountered in urban and suburban areas. Ecology & Breeding Biology: The weasel is both diurnal and nocturnally active. Its slender body renders it agile and it easily accesses narrow cavities in pursuit of prey. It is also a very agile climber. During spring, males are more active than females, the latter saving energy for their pregnancy by remaining in the nest feeding on stored food. Weasels have to eat every 24 hours to avoid starvation. Normally a solitary species, no pair bond between adults, male does not partake in rearing of young. The weasel reaches sexual maturity after its first year of life. Breeding activity commences in early spring and females give birth to 4-6 young twice a year. The first litter is born in late March or early April, unless food is scarce, in which case breeding may fail altogether. When prey is abundant, a second litter can be produced in July. Females from the first brood may become pregnant at this time. The nest is either constructed in dry rubble walls or simply taking over a rodent s nest. The young become independent after 8 / 9 weeks. Feeding & Diet: The weasel is a carnivore, preying mainly on mice, rats, young rabbits, small birds and their eggs. 14

18 Conservation Problems: Previously more common, declining in numbers, mainly due to loss of habitat, increasing traffic in country lanes at nights and direct persecution mainly through illegal shooting. 15

19 ORDER RODENTIA Bowdich, 1821 Sub-Order: Myomorpha Family: Muridae Gray, 1821 Subfamily: Murinae Murray, 1866 Genus: Apodemus Kaup, 1829 Apodemus sylvaticus (Linnaeus, 1758), Gurdien tal-kampanja, Wood Mouse Morphometrics: Head-body length mm, males are slightly larger than females. Tail length mm, hind foot length 20-24mm, Condylo-basal length 22-26mm. Weight 13-27g; females considerably heavy during pregnancy. Distribution: Widespread throughout Continental Europe and the British Isles and southern Scandinavia. Presence: Recorded on Malta and Gozo; not recorded from Comino. Status: Frequent in rural areas in Malta and Gozo. Status in Study Area: This species has been recorded twice in the area, both dead specimens found near the Manikata Church. One male in 1999 and another, also a male, in Habitat: Woodlands, scrubland, and agricultural land; also in rural and suburban areas. It is highly adaptable to its surrounding environment. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Nests consist of leaves and shredded grasses, often underground. Excavates own burrow, often with one entrance plus nest and food chamber. Communal nests in winter, possibly involving both sexes. Feeding & Diet: Seeds, grasses and fruit. Conservation Problems: Increase in the feral cat population. 16

20 Genus: Rattus Frisch, 1775 (Fischer, 1803) Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout, 1769), Far tal-kampanja, Brown Rat Morphometrics: Head & body length mm, Tail mm, Hind foot 40-45mm, Ear 18-23mm. Distribution: A rat of Asian origin, west to south-eastern Siberia being its native distribution. Now present on all continents, with the exception of the Arctic and Antarctica, as a result of human travels. Presence: Its presence has been confirmed on Malta, Gozo, Comino, and Cominotto, but may also be present on the other smaller islands such as Fungus Rock and Selmunett. Status: Its status is considered as frequent but may be very common in some years where it may reach pest proportions. Status in Study Area: Common in fields and along rubble walls, sometimes also near food sources (litter, etc.). Habitat: Urban and suburban localities in places where human refuse can be found as well as on agricultural land. Frequent in manure and rubbish dumps. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Mainly nocturnal but may be seen also during daytime; especially young individuals. Daylight foraging may also suggest a very large population. May travel 3 to 4km each night, usually keeping close to rubble walls, but may also be seen crossing roads. Changes roost every ten to fifteen days. Large colonies develop from a single pair or from a pregnant female. Rattus norvegicus breeds throughout the whole year and its reproduction rate is increased if the population is decreased by trapping or poisoning. Females are sexually mature after 8-12 weeks of life, gestation period days. Litter size 1 15 although averages 7-9. May have up to five litters per year. The average lifespan is of 18 months, with a maximum of 3 years. Feeding & Diet: The species is a mainly a scavenger but also exhibits predatory habits in procuring its food. It mainly feeds at dusk throughout the night until dawn. Not infrequently observed during daylight hours. It has a diversified diet, which includes scraps of animal and vegetable origin. It is known to prey on small mammals, birds and their eggs. Several species of ground and low nesting birds frequently fall victim to this rat. 17

21 Conservation problems: None. The Brown rat is a species that reaches pest proportions, especially in places where it has no natural enemies. Its presence in human environments has important economic and sanitary implications: it destroys and pollutes foodstuffs, as well as being a vector of numerous infectious diseases of viral and bacterial origin able to affect both domestic animals and man. 18

22 Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758), Far Iswed, Black Rat Morphometrics: Head and body length mm, tail length mm. hind foot 30-38mm, ear 24-27mm, weight g. Distribution: A species of Asian origin, probably originated from the Indian Peninsula. Nowadays the Black Rat has a cosmopolitan distribution, especially in temperate and tropical zones. Presence: Present on all the major islands and some of the smaller ones, including Fungus Rock. A species whose presence on the islands coincides with the arrival of the first settlers in 7,000 B.P. (Before Present) as is shown by bone remains excavated from Neolithic sites. Status: Very Common. Status in Study Area: Frequent, especially near urban and sub-urban zones. Habitat: Almost always near buildings, but may also lives on rocks, cliffs, and boulder screes. Present also in wooded areas. Ecology & Breeding Biology: Mainly nocturnal with peak activity 2-3 hours after sunset. Its home range appears to be small with very little wanderings, usually less than 50m from the roost/nest. May reach a population density of 55 individuals per ha. Highly territorial and females are more aggressive than males although dominant males are highly aggressive. They may chase away larger animals from food sources. A dominant male may have up to three subordinate females. The breeding season is from late February to the end November. Females reach sexual maturity between their 12 th and 16 th week of life. The gestation period is of 21 days, litter size 1-16 averaging 7 with 3-5 litters per year. The average lifespan in the wild is less than 18 months.. Feeding & Diet: Omnivorous, but with a greater tendency to vegetable food than R. norvegicus. Conservation Problems: None 19

23 Genus: Mus Linnaeus, 1758 Mus domesticus Linnaeus 1758, Gurdien tal-imramma, Western House Mouse Morphometrics: Head-body 72.7mm (58-85mm), Ear 11.2mm (9mm mm), tail 67.8mm (61-83mm), hind feet 15.3mm (15-17mm), weight 18.1g ( g). Distribution: Cosmopolitan. Found wherever man is present. Presence: Arrived through man s activities. No remains have been found in Pleistocene deposits. Bone remains have been found along remains left by Neolithic Man c.a. 7,400 years ago. Status: Widespread and very common. Status in Study Area: Abundant throughout. Habitat: An extremely versatile species, present in all types of habitat. Frequent in houses and in the near vicinity; found also in stores, factories, abandoned houses, fields, and scrubland. Mostly in urban and sub urban areas, but remains from Barn owl pellets suggests also rural areas. Ecology & Breeding Biology: The House Mouse is active throughout the day but it is even more so during the night. They construct tunnels where the nest is placed in the shelter of a rock or detritus material. In houses,, they take shelter behind furniture and fridges, inside kitchen cupboards and inside cracks in walls. Can become very territorial, especially in years with high numbers. In this case, it is only the dominant males that may possess a territory and therefore breed. If food is available, breeding goes on uninterrupted throughout the year. Females give birth between 5 and 7 young each time and reproduction may be repeated every three or four weeks. With the young attaining sexual maturity at the age of fifty days, one can imagine the rapid demographic growth this species has in the absence of predators and an unlimited food supply. In the Maltese Islands, the House Mouse s natural predators are the diurnal and especially the nocturnal raptors (falcons and owls) and the weasels. These predators play a fundamental role in the demographic control of this rodent pest that is harmful to agriculture and conserved products. Feeding & Diet: The bulk of its food is made up mainly of seeds, but the House Mouse may utilize a great variety of food items; every imaginable food source procured by man can be attacked and consequently damaged. Conservation Problems: None. 20

24 ORDER: LAGOMORPHA Brandt, 1855 Genus: Oryctolagus Lilljeborg, 1874 Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758), Fenek Selvagg, Wild Rabbit Morphometrics: Head and body length mm, tail length 40-80mm, hind foot 75-95mm,ear 65-70mm, weight 1,200 2,500g. Distribution: Throughout the Western Palaearctic, except most of Fennoscandia. Introduced to all continents, except Antarctica. Presence: Arrived on the islands through man s activities, probably by the Phoenicians on their return voyages from the Iberian Peninsula. Status: Frequent to locally common on Malta and Gozo, common on Comino. Status in the Study Area: Common, and in some years very common, especially along the western shoreline. Habitat: Mainly on sea-cliff ledges and garrigue, present also in good numbers at the Ghadira and is-simar Nature Reserves. Ecology & Breeding Biology: The rabbit is usually crepuscular and nocturnal but may also forage during the day where there is no human interference. Mating occurs throughout the year but most litters are born between February and September, peaking in April-June. Females born early in the season are capable of breeding in the same year. The early litters have a better chance of surviving winter. Females are sexually mature in about 3 months and males in their fourth month. Gestation period is of 28 to 33 days. Litters vary in size between 3 and 12 offspring, averaging 5. May have up to seven litters each year. The maximum lifespan is of 9 years. Feeding & Diet: Feeds on a selection of leaves of nutritious species from a wide range of vegetation, including agricultural crops such as cereals. Conservation Problems: Not threatened, but over-hunting and occasional outbreaks of Myxomytosis cause considerable decline in numbers. 21

25 FIELD WORK 6. A survey of the mammalian fauna within the Study Area was carried out between the second week of October and the second week of December 2005, and two other surveys (by car) were carried out during late evenings in late August. Methods 7. A total of six evening/night visits were carried out in the Study Area shown in Figure 1. Visits were carried out late in the afternoon up to three hours after sunset. The Study Area was surveyed by the following different methodologies; Setting 30 live traps in different locations; Walking transect surveys using ultra-sound bat detectors and infra-red light intensifiers; Surveys by car along asphalted and dirt roads using ultra-sound bat detectors; Collecting and analyzing animal droppings / food remains Collecting any other material present (fur, bones, etc) 8. The weather conditions during the period covered (October December) in 2005 were favourable for mammal research except for the month of December when, in the second week, temperatures plummeted to around 11 C (7 C chill factor)on the 12 th. 9. A set of 30 live traps were set on six nights at different locations of the study area. 25 of these traps were set for micro mammals and five for the large rodents. All the traps were set in the same locations throughout the survey period. Traps were baited with toasted bread dipped in peanut butter (See Figure 1). 10. A Mini Bat Detector and a Zenith infra-red light intensifier were used while walking in different parts of the delineated zone (See Figure 2) as well as from the car along roads and paths. Ultra-sonic vocal calls emitted by bats and shrews become audible through the bat detector. Behavioural activities where observed by means of the IRLI. 11. Remains left by mammals differed according to families or groups. Some families such as shrews and rabbits relieve themselves in a common area. These areas are known as latrines and these latrines provide a good sample of droppings for analysis. Bats choose single feeding areas and it is common to encounter insect elytra or discarded moth wings in these traditional feeding areas. Droppings from large rodents although similar to those of large bats or geckoes are easily identifiable due to their hard matter. The analysis of these droppings was carried out at the laboratory of the 22

26 NMNH by means of a Nikon binocular microscope. The locations from where droppings/remains were collected are marked on Figure 3. Visits to Study Area & Species Observed Table 1: Visits to Study Area Day Sunrise Sunset Temperature Avg High Avg Low Mean 15 October :09 18: November :34 16: November :41 16: November :48 16: December :55 16: December :03 16: Visit 1: 15 th October The first visit was carried out to identify the best locations for the setting of traps and to identify the routes to be taken for the night surveys (see Figures 1 and 2.). Very few specific observations were carried out; the only mammal species recorded on the date were twelve Soprano Pipistrelles Pipistrellus pygmaeus feeding in Area C. Rattus droppings were collected from one site in Area B. Visit 2: 11 th November & Thirty traps were set in the early morning. Twenty five longworth-type traps for micro-mammals and five large rodent traps (Figure 1). The evening visit resulted in 14 x Mus domesticus, 1 x Apodemus sylvaticus and 2 x Rattus rattus. All specimens (except for R. rattus) were released alive after the relevant data were collected. All the Mus domesticus and Apodemus sylvaticus had their fur clipped so that any recaptures would be noted. Visit 3: 18 th November A cross-line transect survey was carried out using ultrasonic bat-detectors and infrared light intensifiers. Four bat species were noted, namely Rhinolophus hipoosideros, Myotis punicus, Plectous austriacus and Pipistrellus pygmaeus. Two Atelerix algirus were recorded in two different areas and one, possibly two Suncus etruscus were heard calling (through bat-detector). Several sightings of large rodents were noted. Also one Oryctolagus cuniculus was seen running on the west side of the garrigue in Area A. Several droppings pertaining to Rattus species were collected from a number of areas (see Figure 3). 23

27 Visit 4: 25 th November & The same numbers of traps (30) were set in the early morning in the exact same areas as on 11 th November. The evening visit resulted in: 15 (4 of which were re-traps) Mus domesticus, 2 Rattus rattus, 1 Rattus norvegicus and 1 Mustela nivalis. The remaining traps (8 & 1) where not triggered. All the relevant data from the House and Wood mice were collected but the rats and the Common Weasel were released without measurements. Visit 5: 02 nd December A cross-line transect survey similar to the one carried out on the 3 rd visit resulted in very few sightings. The low temperature resulted in very little activity. The absence of bats was very much in evidence; only one Myotis punicus and two Pipistrellus sp were recorded. Rats were again conspicuous in much of the delineated area. Four Algerian hedgehogs were noted crossing footpaths in Area C. Visit 6: 12 th December & The majority of live traps were set in the same areas as those of the previous two visits with the exception of three traps, which had to be moved a few metres away due to pools formed by rain water. Out of thirty traps only six contained an animal. This was due to low temperature and cold winds. Four (one of which was a re-trap caught on the 11 th November) House Mouse, and two Brown Rats Rattus norvegicus were found. Two of the House Mice were found dead inside the traps but all the others were still very much alive. Table 2: Species observed (excluding those trapped) Species No recorded Date Area Recorded Atelerix algirus 2 18 th November 2005 B = 1, C = 1 Atelerix algirus 4 2 nd December 2005 C Suncus etruscus (2) 18 th November 2005 B Rhinolophus hipposideros 1 18 th November 2005 B Myotis punicus 2 18 th November 2005 A = 1, B = 1 Myotis punicus 1 2 nd December 2005 B Plecotus austriacus 2 18 th November 2005 B Pipistrellus pygmaeus th October 2005 C Pipistrellus pygmaeus th November 2005 A = 1B = 7, C=3 Pipistrellus species 3 2 nd December 2005 B Oryctolagus cuniculus 1 18 th November 2005 A Table 3: Mammals caught in Live-Traps Species No trapped Date Area Recorded Mus domesticus A = 9, B = 4, C = 1 Apodemus sylvaticus B = 1 24

28 Species No trapped Date Area Recorded Rattus rattus A = 1, B = 1 Mus domesticus A = 5, B = 7, C = 2 Rattus rattus A = 1, C = 1 Rattus norvegicus B = 1 Mustela nivalis B = 1 Mus domesticus A = 1, C = 3 Rattus norvegicus B = 1, C = 1 Note: Re-trapped mice were caught in the same trap originally trapped in = very little dispersion. 25

29 Figure 1: Location of Live Traps 26

30 Figure 2: Transect lines and routes of mobile surveys 27

31 Figure 3: Location of droppings 28

32 REFERENCES Adams, A.L Natural History and Archaeology of the Nile Valley and Malta. I- XVI, 1-295, Edmonston & Douglas, Edinburgh. Boffa, C The Islets of Comino and Filfla. Lux Press, Malta. Borg, J Report on the Bat population of the Maltese Islands. Pp In: Stebbings, R.E./IUCN. The Conservation of European Bats. Christopher Helm, London. Borg, J.J The Lesser Mouse-Eared Bat Myotis blythii punicus Felten,1977 in Malta. Notes on Status, Morphometrics, Movements, and Diet (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Naturalista Siciliano S.IV,XXII (3-4) : Borg, J.J Bat Data Sheets for the Maltese Islands. Environment Protection Directorate/MEPA. Borg, J.J Notes on the status, distribution, and morphology of the pygmy white-toothed shrew Suncus etruscus (Savi, 1822) in Malta (Mammalia, Insectivora, Soricidae). Cent. Med. Nat. Vol.4 (1): Borg, J.J. (in prep). On the origin of the terrestrial mammalian fauna in the Maltese Islands. Borg, J., M. Fiore, C. Violani & B. Zava., Observations on the Chiropterofauna of Gozo, Maltese Islands. Boll. Mus. Reg. Sci. Nat. Torino, 8 (2): Borg, J. & R.Cachia-Zammit Avian, Chiropteran and other remains in Barn Owl Tyto alba pellets from Gozo. il-merill 24 : Borg, J. & R. Cachia-Zammit., Diet of the Barn Owl Tyto alba in a rural area in Gozo. il-merill 28: Borg, J.J. & P.M. Sammut., Note on the Diet of a Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriacus (Fischer, 1829) from Mdina, Malta (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae). Central Mediterranean Naturalist 3(4); Borg, J.J. & J. Sultana., On the Occurrence of the Black Rat Rattus rattus on Hagret il-general (Mammalia, Rodentia). Central Mediterranean Naturalist 4(4):. Borg, J.J., C. Violani & B. Zava., The Bat Fauna of the Maltese Islands. Myotis 29

33 (35): Despott, G Annual Report on the working of the Museum Department Report of the Curator of the Natural History Section. Govt. Print. Office, Malta. Felten, H., F. Spitzenberger & G. Storch., Zur Kleinsaugerfauna West Anatoliens. Tiel IIIa Senckenbergiana boil., 58 (1-2): Gulia, G Repertorio di Storia Naturale. Malta. Anglo-Maltese. Gulia, G Elenco dei Mammiferi Maltesi in. il Naturalista Maltese., 1(2): 2-3. Gulia, G Uno Sguardo alla Zoologia delle Isole Maltesi. IX Congress International di Zool. tenu a Monaco du Mars : Lanfranco, G Vagrant Hedgehog in Malta Sunday Times of Malta 16 th Feb Lanfranco, G Maltese Mammals (Central Mediterranean) Malta, 28pp.+ plts. I- VIII. Lanfranco, G.G. & P.J. Schembri., Vertebrates other than birds. In (Schembri P.J. & J.Sultana Eds.) Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands. Dept of Information, Malta.: Lanza, B. in. Toschi, A, & Lanza, B., Fauna d'italia Vol IV, Mammalia Generalita,Insectivora, Chiroptera; Bologna: Ed. Calderini. Malec, F. & Storch, G., Der Wanderigel, Erinaceus algirus Duvernoy & Lereboullet, 1842, von Malta und seine Beziehungen zum nordafrikanischen Herkunftsgebiet. Saugetierkundliche Mitteilungen 20 (1-2). Mitchell-Jones, A.J., Amori, G., Bogdanowicz, W., Krystufek, B., Reijnders, P.J.H., Spitzenberger, F., Stubbe, M., Thissen, J.B.M., Vohralik, V. & Zima, J., Atlas of European Mammals. The Academic Press, London. Savona-Ventura, C., 1984a. Observations of the Genus Myotis in Maltese caves. Potamon 13: Savona-Ventura, C., 1984b. A Study of the genus Myotis Kaup (1829) in Malta 30

34 (Mammalia: Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae). Central Mediterranean Naturalist. 1(3): Storch, G., Holozane kleinsaugerfunde aus der Ghar Dalam-Hohle, Malta (Mammalia, Insectivora, Chiroptera, Rodentia). Senckenbergiana boil. Frankfurt a. M., 51: Strelkov, P Myotis blythi (Tomes 1857), distribution, geographical variability and differences from Myotis myotis (Borkhausen, 1797). Acta Theriol. Warszava. 17: Van Den Brink, F.H., A Field Guide to the Mammals of Britain and Europe. Collins. London. Zava, B. & J. Borg., Sulla Presenza di Myotis blythi Tomes 1857 Nella Grotta Dei Latitanti Di Santa Ninfa. I Gessi di Santa Ninfa. Ser II Vol 3:

35 Appendix I: Conservation Status of Species 32

36 Table 1. Maltese and International Legislation and Treatises Species EPA Bonn Bern EEC/92/43 Eurobats XX/2001 Atelerix algirus X Appendix II Annex IV Suncus etruscus X Appendix III Annex III Rhinolophus X Annex II Appendix II Annex II & IV Annex I hipposideros Myotis punicus X Annex II Appendix II Annex IV Annex I Pipistrellus X Annex II Appendix II Annex IV Annex I pygmaeus Pipistrellus kuhlii X Annex II Appendix II Annex IV Annex I Plecotus X Annex II Appendix II Annex IV Annex I austriacus Tadarida teniotis X Annex II Appendix II Annex IV Annex I Mustela nivalis X Appendix III Oryctolagus cuniculus X Table 2. National and International Status of mammals according to IUCN Criteria Species National Status International Status (IUCN) Atelerix algirus I Suncus etruscus V(?) *Rhinolophus hipposideros VU: A1c VU:A2c *Myotis punicus VU: A1c LR:1c *Pipistrellus pygmaeus VU: cd LR:1c *Pipistrellus kuhlii VU: C1 LR:1c *Plecotus austriacus EN: B1a LR:1c *Tadarida teniotis VU: D1 LR:1c Apodemus sylvaticus Mustela nivalis RR(?) * Chiroptera after Borg 2002, other mammals after Lanfranco & Schembri (1989) Legend to Table 2I (from Schembri & Sultana 1989 Red Data Book for the Maltese Islands). X taxon is extinct from the Maltese islands E taxon is endangered locally V taxon is vulnerable locally R taxon is rare locally RR taxon is very rare locally I taxon s status in the Maltese Islands unknown (?) following any other symbol signifies uncertainty in the information given Chiroptera Borg 2002 Bat Data Sheets for the Maltese islands (after IUCN) EN taxon is Endangered, VU taxon is Vulnerable, 33

37 Under Section V (the criteria for Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable) there is a hierarchical alphanumeric numbering system of criteria and subcriteria. These criteria and subcriteria (all three levels) form an integral part of the Red List assessment and all those that result in the assignment of a threatened category must be specified after the Category. Under the criteria A to C and D under Vulnerable, the first level of the hierarchy is indicated by the use of numbers (1-4) and if more than one is met, they are separated by means of the '+' symbol. The second level is indicated by the use of the lower-case alphabet characters (a-e). These are listed without any punctuation. A third level of the hierarchy under Criteria B and C involves the use of lower case roman numerals (i-v). These are placed in parentheses (with no space between the preceding alphabet character and start of the parenthesis) and separated by the use of commas if more than one is listed. Where more than one criterion is met, they should be separated by semicolons. The following are examples of such usage: 34

38 Appendix 2: Annotated checklist of the mammalia observed during fieldwork 35

39 Annotated Check List For status and ecological data please refer to desk study Algerian Hedgehog Atelerix algirus (Lereboullet, 1842), The Ghajn Tuffieha Manikata area supports a healthy population of Algerian Hedgehogs. A total of 53 individuals were counted in three night visits. The number is biased towards those individuals that either frequents those areas where cat food is present (close to the Manikata Church) or those ones that cross the roads and so are easily visible. The presence of Hedgehogs during the survey was recorded in all the three areas. Pygmy White-toothed Shrew Suncus etruscus (Savi, 1822) One specimen found dead along path in Area B close to thick vegetation. Singles were heard by means of the bat detector in Areas A and B. Unlike its larger cousins the Crocidura shrews, this species of shrew is known to avoid traps. Therefore, the single individual recorded does not reflect the scarcity of this species in the area. Lesser Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus hipposideros (Bechstein, 1800) One bat was heard calling through the bat detector in Area B close to a thick clump of vegetation. Single bats may use the old gunpost in Area C as well as some of the farmhouses. Maghrebian Bat Myotis punicus (Felten, 1977) A small colony was discovered in 1987 by the author located inside a cave on the east side of Area B. This colony usually holds up to four males. Crevices in the area may also hold single Myotis bats. During the survey flying and calling bats were heard on two dates; two on the 18 November in Areas A and B (one each) and one in Area B on 2 nd December Grey Long-eared Bat Plecotus austriascus (Fischer, 1829) A single bat was seen and heard feeding around a clump of trees in Area B on the 18 November. Apart from caves, Plecotus austriacus also roosts in human habitations such as farmhouses and seldom-used rooms. Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygamaeus (Schreber, 1774) A small colony was found in an abandoned farmhouse on the north-east side of Area A. A total of 12 bats were seen emerging during two visits in August. Flying bats were recorded on the 15 th October with a total of 12 bats counted flying over fields in Area C and on the 18 th November, 11 bats were seen flying in all the three areas (A = 1, B = 7, C=3) 36

40 Weasel Mustela nivalis Linnaeus, 1766 A young male was trapped inside one of the larger rodent traps set in Area B on the 25 th November. Farmers reported that they sometimes see weasels especially in Area C while two bird trappers informed that on rare occasion s weasels venture into the trapping site to prey on the tethered decoy birds in Area A. Wood Mouse Apodemus sylvaticus (Linnaeus, 1758) An adult female was trapped in Area B on the 11 th November. This species appears to be shyer and less common than Mus domesticus. Biometrics from Apodemus and Mus were taken as part of an ongoing study on these two species. Brown Rat Rattus norvegicus (Berkenhout, 1769) Frequent in all areas especially around agriculture land. Three males trapped on two occasions; two from Area B and one from C. because of their aggressive nature the two rattus species were released with no data collected. Black Rat Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758) Six individuals were trapped (4 males + 2 females). Common in all the study area especially close to regular food sources (farm houses and accumulated rubbish). Droppings collected from a number of areas in all the three sites. Western House Mouse Mus domesticus Linnaeus 1758 Very common especially near human habitations or farmhouses were a total of 30 individuals mainly young males were trapped. Twelve of these mice were re-trapped in the same trap that they were originally caught in, suggesting very little dispersion. Trapped mice had their fur clipped in various parts of their body to facilitate recognition when re-trapped. Vegetation left to dry in mounds were particularly favoured where in one case a total of 22 mice were counted running out of such a shelter. Wild Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758) Formerly more common but numbers declined in the last 10 years (farmers comments). An adult of the grey form was seen on the 18 th November in Area A. Accumulations of droppings were more evident close to the cliffs along the west side of Areas A and B. 37

41 Appendix 3: Plates 38

42 Chiropterofauna of the Xaghra l-hamra Qortin area Rhinolophus hipposideros Myotis punicus Plecotus austricaus Pipistrellus pygmaeus and young (Photographs by John J. Borg) 39

43 Other Mammals of the Xaghra l-hamra Qortin area Oryctolagus cuniculus Skulls of Rattus norvegicus (L) and R. rattus (R) (Photographs by John J. Borg) 40