Distribution of the Cabrera vole (Microtus cabrerae) in its first reported areas reassessed by live trapping

The distribution and population parameters of the Cabrera vole (Microtus cabrerae), was assessed through live trapping in its first recorded distribution area (Sierra de Alcaraz, Albacete, Spain). Most sites sampled did not show the presence of M. cabrerae, although a number of other rodents and shrews were captured. In the only area where a stable population of M. cabrerae was found, the population density fluctuated from low numbers in winter to spring densities similar to those of other rodents and shrews, which were similar to those reported in the literature. Distribution of this rodent was very patchy at microscale. Some of the original sites could not be sampled as a result of conversion of the vole habitat into agricultural land, M. cabrerae might be more scarce and sensitive to habitat transformation than previously reported. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.