[en] The distribution and the present status of the polecat, stoat and weasel in Belgium are presented. At this time, these species are widely distribution all over the country and it seems that they aren't shortly threatened. Some original data on mortality causes are briefly discussed. Undoubtely, it appears that the major ones are trapping and killing by gamekeepers and road casualties, both accounting for more 70 % of the polecat's (n=96) and stoat's (n=45) losses and for 63% (n=101) of the weasel's ones. No information is available about possible death cases due to ingestion of poisoned baits. Poisoning, trapping and hunting are no longeur allowed in the northern part of Belgium (Flanders) but they are permitted in the southern part (Wallony) all over the year without any limitation (except for poisonning). With the legal protection of these animals in prospect, their dietary habits and their main behavioural and demographical characteristics are reviewed.
Disciplines :
Zoology
Author, co-author :
Libois, Roland ; Université de Liège - ULiège > Département de Biologie, Ecologie et Evolution > Zoogéographie
Language :
French
Title :
Atlas des Mammifères sauvages de Wallonie (suite). Le genre Mustela L. en Belgique
Alternative titles :
[en] The genus Mustela L., in Belgium
Publication date :
1984
Journal title :
Cahiers d'Ethologie
ISSN :
0778-7103
Publisher :
Université de Liège. Institut de Zoologie, Liège, Belgium