The response of prey to Stoat (<i>Mustela erminea</i>) scent

Abstract

Microtus agrestis and Orcadian Microtus arvalis avoid stoat scent and show a reduction in activity when surrounded by it. Such responses probably are adaptive and decrease the chances of an individual suffering predation. Since M. arvalis has been isolated from stoats on Orkney for several millenia the response is innate. For reasons unknown Apodemus sylvaticus does not respond to stoat scent.