Local Distribution and Coexistence of two Species of Peromyscus in Vermont

Microhabitat utilization by Peromyscus maniculatus and P. leucopus was investigated in a northern hardwoods forest in southern Vermont. Species of Peromyscus were identified by analysis of salivary amylase. P. maniculatus used forest microhabitats which were relatively open, with less low vegetation and larger trees than other microhabitats. P. leucopus was negatively associated with P. maniculatus abundance and occupied thickly vegetated areas and shallower slopes. Exposed rock enhanced coexistence of these Peromyscus species.