A test of the possible reduction of the digging activity of moles in pastures by increasing soil nitrogen

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Schaefer, V. H.

Source:

Acta Theriologica, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Volume 26, Issue 7, p.118-123 (1981)

Call Number:

A81SCH04IDUS

URL:

http://rcin.org.pl/Content/10926/BI002_2613_Cz-40-2_Acta-T26-nr8-118-123_o.pdf

Keywords:

coast mole, earthworm, Lumbricus rubellus, mole control, Scapanus orarius

Abstract:

In this study, the level of nitrogen fertilizer (140 kg N /ha) was found to reduce soil pH and the weights of earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) in the laboratory. Nitrogen fertilizer (70 kg N /ha; 140 kg N /ha) was then applied to 15 coast mole (Scapanus orarius) territories in pastures of a dairy farm in British Columbia in an attempt to reduce the densities of molehills there. In the field, the nitrogen fertilizer did not reduce soil pH as would be expected. No reduction in molehill densities occurred with the fertilizer treatments, possibly because soil (in this case, high in calcium) and weather conditions interfered with the acidifying ability of the fertilizer.