Successful acclimatization of bobak marmot (Marmota bobak) in the forest zone (Udmurt Republic, Russia). Opyt ouspechoï akklimatizatsii stepnogo sourka (Marmota bobak) v lesnoï zone (Oudmourtskaya respoublika, Rossiya). [Acclimatation réussie de la marmotte bobak (Marmota bobak) dans le zone forêt (République Oudmourte, Russie)].

Résumé

Steppe marmot or bobak marmot (Marmota bobak) is a typical inhabitant of steppe landscapes in Eurasia. As a consequence of artificiaI resettlement a viable population of this species has also formed in the forest zone. One of the most northern populations of baibak inhabits the Udmurt Republic (UR), where over 450 marmots were introduced from the Ulianovsk province in 1986-1989. During the last years the "Udmurt" population showed stability in terms of quantity that made up 250-300 animals. Long-term studies of a basic marmot colony near village Cheganda (Karakulinsk district, 55?56' N., 53?29' E.) allow the segregation of a number of factors preceding successful acclimatization of this species in the forest zone, which is not specific for the species. • Biological features of the species: an ecological flexibility, a family-colony way of life, hibernation, eating green herbs, ability to inhabit transected landscapes and gully areas. These features can be considered as bobak's pre-adaptation to the new habitat outside its natural one. • Existence of gully areas suitable for marmots in the southern districts of the UR. Use of multiple gullies as pastures and hay making areas contributes to their deforestation and vegetation's acquiring the features specific for northern meadow steppes. The moderate and intense grazing of livestock prevents herbs from growing high and thus improves habitat conditions for marmots. However, overgrazing leads to the degradation of upper soil and therefore destruction of herbs. A long vegetative period of many herbs. Unlike steppe landscapes, where, as a rule, herbs get entirely adust in July, in the forest zone the mesophile meadow vegetation has a longer vegetative period that provides marmots with good succulent fodder before the autumn frost. • Effective protection measures. At the first stages of the acclimatization work marmots were protected from poachers and stray dogs by district rangers, and then by local people who worked with the Department of Hunting of Udmurt Republic.