HETEROTROPHS
Beech Marten (Martes foina)- Keystone Species
Beech Martens are found in open forested areas and rocky out croppings through Europe and in western and central Asia. They can commonly be found near areas of human habitations where they make dens in buildings, or natural dens sites include tree hollows, rock crevices or abandoned burrows. They are omnivores and feed on smaller mammals, eggs and fruit. Red foxes, lynxes and mountain lions will prey on the adults.
|
Common Genet(Genetta)-
There are about 30 subspecies of common genets that can be found in Africa, Europe and Middle East. Common genets inhabit forests, rocky hillsides, marshes, scrublands and agricultural lands. They are threatened by habitat loss and hunting because of their fur and body parts that are used in folk medicine. Despite these factors, common genets are not endangered. They are still widespread and very common in the wild.
|
Red Deer(Cervus elaphus)-
Red Deer are found in temperate forests, open woodlands, and mountainous areas. These animals are herbivores and mainly eat grasses, plants, twigs, and mosses. Bodies of deer grow a thicker coat during autumns which provides insulation which helps in maintaining body temperature during the winter season. The winter coat makes it easier to spot the difference between the subspecies. Red deers are now herd and hunted, in controlled quantities, for their meat. There are even hunting seasons, dedicated to these animals. The red deer are rare in some parts of Europe, but are not listed as endangered or vulnerable.
|
Weasels(Mustela)-The weasel is a highly active predator found throughout the United Kingdom. Weasels may live in woodlands, hedgerows, dry-stone walls and long grass. Humans have persecuted weasels over the years; gamekeepers and farmers have always regarded weasels as vermin and trapped them in large numbers. Also many weasels are killed on the roads. Depsite these factors, they remain common and not listed as an endangered species in the United Kingdom.
|
Wild Boar(Sus scrofa)-
There are four subspecies of wild boar that are similar in both size and appearance, but differ in color which depends on the type of habitat. Native wild boars can be found in Africa, Europe and Asia. Wild boars can live in different types of habitat including grasslands, taiga, tropical rainforests, but they prefer deciduous forests. Wild boars are threatened by habitat loss and by commercial hunt. Despite this, wild populations are still stable and they are not listed as endangered species.
|