Outbreak of Arvicola terrestris in rice fields in Yugoslavia1

Macedonia is the southern boundary for the distribution of Arvicola terrestris (water vole) in the Balkan peninsula. Until recently, these voles were found in the region only sporadically, showing none of the cyclic population fluctuations characteristic of microtines in the continental part of Europe. An investigation was started in 1984 when the first visible signs of damage to rice in Ko?ansko Valley, caused by numbers of voles, were noted. Since then, population numbers have increased, reaching a density of 1000 individuals per ha on one locality. The causes of such an unexpected outbreak and the methods for determining role abundance are discussed. The construction of a dam and the extension of rice cultivation have reduced the natural habitats of both vole predators and their competitors. Increased pesticide and fertilizer usage have also affected the fauna unfavourably. Efficient control was attained by means of zinc phosphide baits, specially before the rice growing season (i. e. in winter and early spring).