SOME QUESTIONS OF THE ECOLOGY OF STEPPE MARMOT IN THE SOUTHERN URALS (ANALYSIS OF THE ACTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL-FACTORS)

On the example of study of the marmot population (Marmota bobak) in Ch elyabinsk Oblast in the summer of 1999, new information was obtained o n the effect of anthropogenic and ecological factors, and also their j oint action on marmot settlement. It is necessary to study population dynamics in order to exactly determine the level (number) of marmots t o be taken by sex and age. Such study is the only scientifically subst antiated way to guarantee long-term use of biological resources. A gre ater number of marmots was noted outside the boundaries of the reserve than inside it: 33 and 10 individuals per 1 km2, respectively. The ma ximum number of marmots is found in the steppe; fewer, in perennial gr asses; and the least, in fields of annual crops.