The age structure of the pine marten (Martes martes L.) population in the Lithuanian mixed-deciduous forest

Abstract

To determine pine martens (Martes martes L.) age structure a research was carried out in 2010–2012 at ASU Game management laboratory. The investigation included 32 pine martens which were hunted in mixed-deciduous forest according to LR Hunting Regulations. The age of martens was determined employing two methods: crista sagitallis externa coalescence and mandibular teeth attrition level. After the research the martens were divided into three age groups: yearlings, two-year-old and older than two-year-old specimens. The results showed that the yearlings comprise from 53% to 62% of the pine marten population structures in the Lithuanian mixed-deciduous forests. Yearling individuals’ number, analysing by two methods, differs by 9.4 %. Adult pine marten individuals’ number, analysing by two methods, differs by 6.3 %. Statistical comparison of two age determination methods using the categorical data, relation of medium strength has been found between M. martes population groups formed by both age methods. Better results could be achieved by completing teeth cutting and cement layers counting.