Space utilization of Peromyscus: social and spatial factors.

Abstract Space utilization of Peromyscus maniculatus bairdi and P. leucopus noveboracensis was studied in laboratory enclosures. After 1 week, individuals were given access to twice as much space for an additional week. The new area was either vacant or was occupied by a similarly experienced conspecific of the same or opposite sex. Patterns of space utilization and reaction to the doubling of space were species specific. Each species displayed specific patterns of social behaviour and only P. maniculatus reproduced. Both species exhibited similar patterns of space utilization in the presence of another individual. Social regulation of space utilization did not result from territorial defence of mutually exclusive areas, but from the initial mutual avoidance of two individuals.