Crop damage by small mammals in no-till cornfields

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Population levels and food habits of small mammals in no-till corn planted in corn residue, corn planted in treated sod, and conventionally disked fields showed that deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) dominated rodent communities and that thirteenlined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus) accounted for more than 10% of all animals captured. Rodent damage to corn seedlings was less frequent than insect and weather damage. At the time of corn emergence, rodents primarily consumed deleterious insects and weed seeds rather than corn seeds and seedlings. General control of rodents to protect planted corn in no-till systems is unwarranted.