Current distribution and changes in number of the spotted souslik, Spermophilus suslicus, in the eastern part of its range

The current state of the spotted souslik range on the Volga River region wa s studied. The pattern of distribution is mosaic and stipulated by the inte nsive economic exploitation of the territory (Plough lands amount to 60%) a nd a high percentage of the forested area. Twenty-four geographically separ ated populations of the species are distinguished. A high number of animals was found mainly in the biotopes represented by pastures, unused fields an d small flat bottom valleys.