The Occurrence and Origin of Small Mammals on the Islands and Peninsulas of Western Lake Erie

Abstract

Collection of small mammals in the island and peninsula region of western Lake Erie from 1962 to 1967 has provided information on the present distribution of several species. The white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus noveboracensis) was found in wooded areas throughout the region except on two of the smallest islands. Other native small mammals were trapped on Catawba and Marblehead Peninsulas but were not found on any of the islands. Various classical methods by which mice reach islands were considered in reference to the Lake Erie situation. None seemed appropriate for direct movements from mainland to island. Swimming, rafting, and movement across ice may be effective for the shorter inter-island and mainland-to-peninsula movements, but no adequate natural explanation for the longer movements can be offered. Human activity may aid in maintaining mouse populations on the smaller islands, but the limited diversity of island smallmammal fauna suggests a minor role for man in the importation of new animals.