POPULATION-DYNAMICS AND HABITAT USE OF THE LONG-HAIRED RAT (RATTUS-VILLOSISSIMUS) IN SOUTH-WESTERN QUEENSLAND

A population of Rattus villosissimus was studied during an 18-month pe riod in a sand-dune habitat in south-western Queensland. The populatio n numbers fluctuated dramatically during this time. Increases in popul ation numbers were due primarily to immigration, with reproduction pla ying a secondary role. Rain-induced increases in food availability are the most likely stimuli for these increases. The cause of population decline is not clear from this study, but predation and disease may be important factors. Radio-tracking showed that the spatial activity of the animals was concentrated on the sides of the dunes, and around bu rrows. Temporal activity is influenced by moonlight, with animals rema ining in burrows for long periods of time on bright nights.