Effect of capture and season on fecal glucocorticoid levels in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and red-backed voles (Clethrionomys gapperi)

The effect of confinement and season on fecal glucocorticoid (GC) levels in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) and red-backed voles (Clethrionomys gapperi) was determined. Deer mice confined in a Sherman trap more than 4 h had fecal GC levels that were significantly higher than those in individuals that remained in a trap 4 h or less. However, this treatment may not be stressful for red-backed voles as neither plasma nor fecal GC levels were significantly elevated after 12 h of confinement. In addition, a clear temporal pattern in the secretion of fecal GCs was observed between mid June and early November in both species. (C) 2001 Academic Press.