A Survey of Water Vole (Arvicola Terrestris) Habitation of Coignafearn

A survey of water vole ( Arvicola terrestris) habitation of Coignafearn Estate, Scotland

Rebecca Priestley July 2011

Contents

1. Introduction………………………………………………………………………………..1 2. Study area………………………………………………………………………………….2 3. Method……………………………………………………………………………………..3 4. Results……………………………………………………………………………………..4 4.1. Evidence of water vole presence…………………………………………………….4 4.1.1. Burrow entrances………………………………………………………………4 4.1.2. Under-snow tunnelling………………………………………………………...4 4.1.3. Latrine sites…………………………………………………………………….5 4.1.4. Foraging………………………………………………………………………..6 4.1.5. Nests…………………………………………………………………………...6 4.1.6. Live sightings………………………………………………………………….6 4.1.7. Dead individuals……………………………………………………………….7 4.1.8. Tracks………………………………………………………………………….7 4.2. Distribution of water voles………………………………………………………8-10 4.2.1. Allt Fionndairnich…………………………………………………………….11 4.2.2. Allt Calder & Allt Odhar Mòr...... 12 4.2.3. Allt Deamhaidh...... 13 4.2.4. Allt Coire Challich...... 14 4.2.5. Allt Fionnach...... 15 4.2.6. Elrick Burn, Allt Glas a’Charbaid, Allt Glas a’Bheòil & Allt Glas a Chùil...... 16-17 4.2.7. Allt Creagach...... 18 4.2.8. Abhainn Crò Chlach...... 19-20 4.2.9. River Eskin...... 21 4.2.10. Other Burns...... 22 4.3. Habitat Characteristics...... 23 4.3.1. Slope………………………………………………………………………….23 4.3.2. Speed & type of water flow……………………………………………… 23-24 4.3.3. Vegetation…………………………………………………………………….24 4.3.4. Altitude……………………………………………………………………….25 4.4. Population size……………………………………………………………………..26 4.5. Evidence of predators……………………………………………………………...26 5. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………..27 Acknowledgements…………………………………………………………………………..28 References……………………………………………………………………………………29 Appendices……………………………………………………………………………….30-35

1. Introduction

The water vole (Arvicola terrestris ) has repeatedly been shown to be Britain’s most declining mammal ( Barreto et al 1998, Strachan et al 2000 ). The main threat is predation by invasive American mink ( Mustela vison ) (Lambin et al. 1998), but habitat degradation and fragmentation, together with corresponding population fragmentation and isolation have also contributed to its decline (WildCru 2004, Lambin et al 1998 ). Together these factors have resulted in an 88% decrease in just seven years, with some populations having declined by 98% (Strachan et al. 2000).

Approximately 40% of the UK population is believed to occur in mainland Scotland, with a large proportion of these found in upland environments (Capreolus 2005). Although many sites in the Cairngorms and surrounding areas have been surveyed for water vole presence, Coignafearn Estate, in the centre of the Monadhliath Mountains, has not.

Water vole ecology and habitat

Water voles have a characteristic rounded body with a blunt muzzle and short rounded ears nearly hidden by the fur. Pelage is usually mid-red brown in colour, but upland individuals are frequently melanistic, turning the coat black (Strachan 1997). Adults weigh between 200 and 350g and measure approximately 29cm from nose to tail tip. They are normally exclusively vegetarian, consuming a mixture of sedges, rushes and grasses.

Water voles create an extensive burrow system of tunnels linking food and nest chambers, with entrances both above and below water. Upland water vole populations are thought to exist as a series of metapopulations, which frequently undergo periods of localised extinction and new colonisation (Lawton et al. 1991). Prime habitat is densely vegetated with riparian plants including sedges, rushes, grasses and reeds. They tend to select slow-flowing water courses with earthy as opposed to rocky banks, and as such, ponds, streams and ditches make excellent habitat and may even be preferred to the main river channel (Strachan 1997).

The water vole is a protected species and is listed under Schedule 5 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act. The UK Species Action Plan for the water vole requires conservation action to be directed to strongholds for the species and, consequently, areas believed to support water vole populations unaffected by mink should be of prime conservation interest.

The objective of this study was therefore to survey Coignafearn Estate for water vole habitation and to map and document its distribution and characteristics.

1 2. Study area

Coignafearn estate is located just outside the Cairngorms National Park, approximately 15.5 miles south of Inverness. It covers 39,606 acres and ranges from lowland riverine habitat to upland moorland up to 930m in altitude. The area is managed as a sporting estate for red grouse (Lagopus lagopus ) and red deer ( Cervus elaphus), with a strong emphasis on ecological restoration and the conservation of nature. It contains very few forested areas, with the dominant habitat type being upland peat moors vegetated by heather and grasses.

Its main water course is the River Findhorn, which runs through the centre of the estate. This has nine main tributaries: Allt Fionndairnich, Allt Calder, Allt Deamhaidh, Allt Coire Challich, Allt Fionnach, Elrick Burn, Allt Creagach, Abhainn Crò Chlach and the River Eskin.

Fieldwork was conducted from May 25 th - July 4th 2011.

Figure 1: Location of Coignafearn Estate, 15.5 miles south of Inverness 2 3. Method

A 1:25,000 Ordnance Survey map of the area was used to determine potential areas of suitable water vole habitat. These were defined as any water course that contained flattish areas. Steep burns were not predicted to support water vole colonies and, as this proved to be correct after an initial assessment, were not surveyed. Water courses were walked in their entirety and surveyed up to 9m on each side. Water voles were considered to be or to have been present wherever the following signs were observed:

• Burrow entrances • Under-snow tunnelling • Latrine sites • Evidence of foraging (cropped grass or cut lengths of vegetation outside burrows) • Nests • Live sightings • Dead individuals • Tracks

A Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver was used to mark the exact location of water vole presence. Wherever this was detected the following were recorded:

• Number of burrow entrances • Slope (flat; slight; medium; steep) • Characteristics of watercourse (above/under ground) • Width and depth of watercourse • Speed of water flow (static; slow; medium; fast)

Numerous burns were encountered that were not included on the O.S. map, but these were not surveyed due to time constraints. However any wet areas adjacent to mapped water courses were included in the survey. The River Findhorn itself was also not surveyed, although any marked side burns were included.

Evidence of potential predators was also recorded: specifically mink ( Mustela vison ), otters (Lutra lutra ), stoats (Mustela erminea ) and weasels (Mustela nivalis ). Field signs comprised scats and tracks.

3 4. Results

4.1 Evidence of water vole presence

4.1.1 Burrow entrances

These were the most commonly found signs of water vole presence. The number of burrow entrances found along the length of a single burn varied from 1 to over 600. The size of holes ranged from 4 to 8cm, with smaller holes often found alongside larger ones, presumably created by younger voles. Burrow entrances tend to be slightly wider than high and have no spoil heap outside. On occasion entrances were found as part of a clear (circular) colony but, most frequently, were in a linear arrangement extending along the course of a burn. Tunnels leading both into the open and into the water were encountered.

Densely populated colony located to the side of a (medium-sized) water course…

Figure 2: Water vole colony on a tributary of Allt Glas a’Chùil Figure 3: Burrow entrances extending in a linear arrangement along a tributary of Caochan nan Carnaichean Dubha

4.1.2. Under-snow tunnelling

Evidence of under-snow tunnelling was found on 101 burns, at 53.2% of sites. This is part of the burrow system and clearly shows the movements of water voles during winter, when they may travel further from water due to the protection provided by deep snow.

Figure 4: Under-snow tunnelling leading down into an underground pond on a tributary of Allt Coire nan Stri

4 4.1.3. Latrine sites

Water vole droppings were found fairly infrequently, at only 36 sites (18.9% of total burns). 83 latrines were found altogether. The vast majority of these were at the water’s edge or outside a burrow entrance. Droppings are 8-12mm long and 4-5mm wide and are cylindrical with blunt ends. Those found ranged in colour from green when very fresh through to black, and brown when very old. The most latrines that were found at a single site was 9.

Figure 5: Fresh droppings outside a burrow entrance on Caochan Chairn Lèith. Mucus membrane encasing faeces still visible

Figure 6: Latrine site outside a burrow entrance on tributary of Abhainn Crò Chlach

Due to the nature of upland water vole populations, many latrine sites are likely to be underground, and so would not be seen. Additionally, the frequent and heavy rainfall in this area could cause many latrine sites to be washed away. As such, the number of latrine sites located on Coignafearn estate is likely to be far greater than the 83 that were found in this study.

Figure 7: Droppings found on old nesting material on a Figure 8: Latrine site on the edge of a static pool on Caochan tributary of Caochan Mòr Bun Fhraoich Eag Dhubh nam Meirleach. Note burrow entrance to right.

4.1.4. Foraging

Very few signs of foraging were found. A common sign of water vole presence in lowland areas are ‘gardens’ outside holes, where the surrounding vegetation has been cut, however this was only seenFigure on 7: Old2 occasions nesting material in used this as asurvey latrine si te(1.1% on Caochan of total sites). Cut lengths of grass were seen just inside or outsidenan Carnaichean burrowFigure Dubha 8: entrances Latrine site on on edge 5 of burns static pond. (2.6% Note underwaterof sites) and cropped grass was seen on 6 occasions (3.2% of sites).tunnel to rightAltogether evidence of foraging was only seen on 9 burns (4.7% of total sites). Vegetation tended to be cut at a height of 3-4cm from the ground and into lengths 8-10cm long. The imprints of the two incisors were always clearly visible.

Water voles frequently transfer food underground (Capreolus 2005), so this may be a reason why many feeding stations were not found.

Figure 9: Recently cut lengths of grass outside a burrow on a Figure 10: Foraging forming a ‘garden’ outside burrows on tributary of Allt Glas a’Charbaid Caochan nan Carnaichean Dubha

4.1.5. Nests

A field vole nest was seen on one occasion but no water vole nests were found throughout the course of the study.

4.1.6. Live sightings

Live sightings of upland water voles were seen on only two occasions in the field, and the characteristic ‘plop’ of one entering the water heard on a further one occasion. Water voles were regularly observed at one of the lowland sites and emerged every evening at 20:45-21:00 but were only observed through spending hours sitting and watching the site.

6 4.1.7. Dead individuals

Evidence of dead water voles was found at 6 sites (3.2% of total burns). Most frequently this was the remains of a carcass which had been fed on by predators, or old sections of skin. One baby water vole was found dead, presumed to have been washed out from the nest by flooding.

Figure 11: Recently dead adult male water vole outside burrow on Caochan Chairn Lèith. Cause of death not apparent. Body length 19.3cm, tail length 10.5cm.

4.1.8. Tracks

Water vole tracks were seen on only 5 occasions (2.6% of sites), in peat running alongside a burn. Footprints are characteristically star-shaped and measure 26-34mm (hind foot). 4 toes are visible on the forefoot and 5 on the hind foot.

Figure 12: Water vole tracks leading to and from a latrine site on a tributary of Allt Glas a’Chùil 7 4.2. Distribution of water voles

Key

1km Water voles present Water voles absent Unsurveyed burn

Figure 13: Distribution of water voles on Coignafearn Estate

8 No. tributaries supporting No. burrow Extant Main Burn Tributaries water voles /Total no. entrances population tributaries surveyed Fèith an t-Sìthe 3/3 13 Caochan Glasaichean Beag 2/2 137 Allt Fionndairnich Unnamed 2/4 15 Total 7/9 165 Caochan Chairn Lèith 1/1 18 Yes Caochan na Beinne Brice Mòire 1/3 6 Caochan Meall an Duibhe 3/3 49 Allt Calder Allt Odhar Beag 5/5 205 Yes Unnamed 2/2 57 Total 12/14 335 Yes Caochan Carn Ghriogair 0/1 0 Caochan Choire Odhair Mhòir 1/1 28 Caochan Choire Odhair Bhig 1/1 97 Allt Odhar Mòr Caochan Chairn Odhair 3/3 67 Unnamed 3/3 148 Total 8/9 340 Caochan Garbh 1/1 16 Caochan Dearg Beag 1/2 22 Caochan Dearg Mòr 1/2 5 Caochan nan Carnaichean Allt Deamhaidh 3/5 346 Yes Dubha Caochan na h-Eige Duibhe 2/3 360 Yes Unnamed 3/10 64 Yes Total 11/23 813 Yes Caochan Garbh 3/5 47 Allt Coire Caochan a’Choire Odhair 8/10 488 Challich Total 11/15 535 Caochan a’Chrithinn 6/6 523 Caochan Clais an Daimh Mòr 1/1 40 Allt Fionnach Allt Choire Shaùilegaich 5/5 114 Unnamed 3/5 37 Yes Total 15/17 714 Yes Caochan Coire nan Làogh 0/1 0 Caochan Coire na Craoibhe 1/1 15 Caochan Beag Bun Fhraoich 0/1 0 Caochan Mòr Bun Fhraoich 6/8 109 Yes Elrick Burn Caochan Meall nan Laogh 3/3 34 Yes Caochan Causerlich 11/28 260 Unnamed 2/3 59 Total 22/45 477 Yes Allt Glas Unnamed 10/25 668 Yes a’Charbaid Total 10/25 668 Yes Unnamed 11/24 551 Yes Allt Glas a’Bheòil Total 11/24 551 Yes Caochan Eag Dhubh nam 1/3 101 Yes Meirleach Allt Glas a’Chùil Unnamed 10/15 397 Yes Total 11/18 498 Yes Allt Creagach Beag 2/3 24 Yes Allt Creagach Allt Odhar 5/7 194 Yes Total 7/10 218 Yes

9 Caochan Coire an Daimh 2/2 28 Yes Dhuibh Allt Fionn-tom Mòr 1/2 82 Abhainn Crò Allt Ballach 1/3 42 Chlach Allt nan Cabar 3/7 34 Yes Unnamed 23/59 646 Yes Total 30/73 832 Yes Allt Dubh nan Searsanach 1/1 11 Allt Coire nan Stri 8/17 231 Allt Coire nan Aonach 9/11 226 Allt Coire an t-Streatha 2/2 753 Yes (dive) River Eskin Allt a’Choire Sheilich 1/1 15 Caochan na Làraiche Maoile 2/2 65 Yes Caochan na Buidheinn 2/2 43 Yes Total 25/36 1344 Yes Allt na Croite 0/1 0 Caochan an Lagain Ruaidh 2/2 31 Caochan Garbh 1/1 4 Other burns Caochan Ruighe Chleirich 1/2 152 Yes Caochan Feith an Otraich 1/5 31 Unnamed 1/4 3 Yes Total 6/15 221 Yes TOTAL 186/333 7711

Figure 14: Water courses found to support water vole habitation on Coignafearn Estate. NB extant populations are classed as those where recent latrines, dead individuals, tracks or signs of recent foraging were seen. Those not classed as extant may currently support water voles but none of the above signs were found. However, as latrine sites in upland environments are frequently hidden or washed away, it should not be assumed that these burns do not have extant populations.

10 4.2.1. Allt Fionndairnich

Allt Fionndairnich runs through a very steep-sided valley, with a number of side burns coming off it Fèith an t-Sìthe which were not surveyed due to the 1 2 steepness of the gradient. However, the lower reaches of Fèith an t-Sìthe, its tributary and 3 adjacent burn, pass over fairly flat ground before joining the main burn and these were all found to support water vole colonies. Suitable habitat was only present in very small patches, with only 13 burrow entrances were found. A ll Other than those found on a t F io lowland tributary of the main nn da Findhorn River, these were the ir ni ch lowest colonies found, at 412- 452m.

At 660m Allt Fionndairnich splits into two: Caochan Glasaichean Beag and an unnamed burn. Both support water vole populations, although the former in much higher

g a e numbers, with 137 holes compared B n a e to only 15 on the unnamed burn. h ic a s la G n a No latrine sites or evidence of h c o a C foraging were found.

Figure 15: Water vole distribution on Allt Fionndairnich and its tributaries

11 4.2.2. Allt Calder & Allt Odhar Mòr

a o r c i 22 h a a g

n o

C r

h h 9 o G e

r i i r n

e r ò

a O M

d e

h n c a a ri C i h r a c B o M c o e h a a h n n C ò n 24 C i i h e o 23 r ir B e O a d n h ai n r a B h hi 11 c 8 g o

a Caochan Chairn Odhair 10 C ith 25 L è irn ha 12 C Allt an C ch 26 ao ao Odha cha C n M ea ll a n D r ui M bhe òr 18 19 27 20 Al lt Ca lder 17 Allt Odhar Beag 13

16 14 15

Figure 16: Water vole presence on Allt Calder, Allt Odhar Mòr and their tributaries

Allt Calder passes through a steep-sided, initially forested, valley before the tributaries of Caochan Chairn Lèith, Caochan na Beinne Brice Mòire and Caochan Meall an Duibhe join at approximately 530m. These all contained water vole populations, but at fairly low numbers, with 18, 6 and 49 burrow entrances respectively. Caochan Chairn Lèith contained 1 latrine and also the remains of a dead water vole and old lengths of cut grass outside a burrow.

At approximately 560m Odhar Beag joins Allt Calder before Allt Calder becomes Allt Odhar Mòr. All of Allt Odhar Beag’s 5 tributaries support water voles, with 205 burrow entrances found in total and a latrine on burn 16. Allt Odhar Mòr is also very well colonised, with only 1 tributary (Caochan Carn Ghriogair) not containing water vole colonies, however this was rocky and fairly fast flowing and so did not constitute suitable habitat. Burns 24 and 25 in particular were very well colonised, with burrow entrances found along their entire lengths.

12 12

4.2.3. Allt Deamhaidh

Allt Deamhaidh runs south from the River Findhorn. It passes through a very steep-sided valley with many of its lower and mid tributaries too steep to support water voles. Small h d i sections of suitable habitat were a h m found on Caochan Garbh and a e D Caochan Dearg Beag, but these did

t l l not constitute major populations, with A

C only 16 and 22 burrow entrances aoc han Ga rbh found on each respectively.

28 However, much larger populations are found further up in the headwaters of Allt Deamhaidh, with 2 burns, Caochan nan Carnaichean Dubha and Caochan na h-Eige Duibhe running along flattish ground for much of

30 their lengths and each containing over 29 340 burrow entrances. These both clearly have thriving extant C ao ch an populations, with 2 latrine sites found D ea rg B on Caochan na h-Eige Duibhe and 3 ea g ‘gardens’, cropped grass, old bedding 32 34 and the remains of 2 dead water voles C ao found on Caochan nan Carnaichean ch an D ea Dubha. rg M òr ibhe u A latrine site was also found on e D g unnamed burn 32. C a 31 o c 33 h a n n Caochan na h-Ei a n C Altogether 813 burrow entrances a r 35 n a ic were found on this water course, h e a nd n D making it the 2 highest of those u b h a surveyed.

36 37

Figure 17: Water vole presence on Allt Deamhaidh and its tributaries

4.2.4. Allt Coire Challich

l l a

r i o

t l

l A

G a

b h

r 42 i a h

r i

43 h

C ’ a

a C

45 39

40 47 48 41 49

Figure 18: Water vole presence on Allt Coire Challich and its tributaries

Allt Coire Challich is a relatively small burn that extends south from the Findhorn. At 500m it splits into two main tributaries: Caochan a’Choire Odhair and Caochan Garbh, both of which support water vole colonies.

8 out of 10 tributaries surveyed on Caochan a’Choire Odhair contained burrow entrances, with 488 holes found in total. Caochan Garbh was less populated, with 3 out of 5 surveyed tributaries containing water voles, but at fairly low densities, with only 47 holes found.

No evidence was found of current occupation, however as all water courses were either underground or passed in and out of the ground, it is likely that latrine sites are underground and so would not have been seen.

14 4.2.5. Allt Fionnach

52 53 54 51

55 56 Caochan a’Chrithinn 50 57 58

ch 59 a n n io F t ll A

60 A ll t C ho ir e Sh aù ile 61 ga 62 ic h

òr h M aim an D lais an C aoch C 64 63

Figure 19: Water vole presence on Allt Fionnach and its tributaries

Allt Fionnach extends to the west of the estate. It has 3 main tributaries: Caochan a’Chrithinn, Allt Coire Shaùllegaich and Caochan Clais an Daimh Mòr, extending up to 755m. This watershed is clearly a good area for water voles, with all 12 tributaries containing colonies and a further 3 unnamed tributaries also containing burrows. Caochan a’Chrithinn was the most densely populated tributary, with 523 burrow entrances found and burns 52, 53 and 55 populated for their entire lengths.

Caochan Choire Shaùilegaich contained 114 burrow entrances and Caochan Clais an Daimh Mòr only 40.

An old latrine was found on Caochan Clais an Daimh Mòr, but no fresh ones on any of the main named tributaries, however the majority of these water courses were underground, so latrine sites are less likely to be seen. However 8 latrines were found on burn 64. This is a small unnamed overground tributary in which the water is barely flowing, making it excellent water vole habitat.

15 15 4.2.6. Elrick Burn, Allt Glas a’Charbaid, Allt Glas a’Bheòil & Allt Glas a’Chùil

c i

r l

gh L ào nan oire n C cha Cao

h raoic un Fh eag B han B Caoc

C ao ch an M ò r B 74 u 69 n 65 Fh ra oi C ch 75 ao 66 c h a n M e a 67 ll 109 n 68 a n L a o g 111 110 h

70 71 73 72

77 A 98 ll t G 113 l as a ’C h 115 a h r 114 c b l i a i 116 l r id ù e s

h u a

C C

’ òil n a e a h h s c B o a a l 99 86 117 C G las a’ t l G 85 l llt A A 88 87 112 106 79 103 84 Meirleach m h na 119 83 104 93 89 ag Dhub 101 102 105 92 81 n E 94 a 82 78 aoch C 100 90 91 108 97 96 107 120 118 99 95 80

Figure 20: Water vole presence on Elrick Burn, Allt Glas a’Charbaid, Allt Glas a’Bheòil & Allt Glas a’Chùil and their tributaries

16 The Elrick burn extends south of the Findhorn and between 600 and 710m splits into 4 main tributaries which reach to the far southern borders of the estate: Allt Glas a’Charbaid, Allt Glas a’Bheòil, Caochan Causerlich and Allt Glas a’Chùil. The former 3 all contained water vole colonies but only in very fragmented populations. Many of the small tributaries were either too steep or peaty with very little vegetation, and those that did contain burrows tended to only have small sections of suitable habitat within a generally uninhabitable burn. However, although not many populations were found, those that were found were very densely occupied.

The tributaries of Allt Glas a’Charbaid together contained 668 burrow entrances. Only 10 out of the 25 burns surveyed supported water voles, however those that do appear to have extant populations, with 4 containing latrine sites: burns 78, 80, 83 and 86. Evidence of foraging was also found on burns 83 and 86. Habitation was found up to 822m.

Habitation on Allt Glas a’Bheòil showed a similar pattern, with 11/24 burns supporting water voles and 551 burrow entrances found. Only 1 latrine was found, on burn 105, but there may well have been numerous sites underground. This tributary contained the highest colony found on Coignafearn estate, on burn 95, at a height of 881m.

Caochan Causerlich contained fewer burrows, with 260 holes found on 11 out of the 28 tributaries surveyed. Those that were found were again at very high altitudes, with the highest found on burn 96 at 872m. No latrine sites or signs of foraging were found.

Suitable water vole habitat on Allt Glas a’Chùil was not as fragmented as on the other tributaries, and burn 118 contained burrows over most of its length. Altogether 11 out of 16 burns contained burrows, with 498 entrances found, up to 839m. Lots of evidence was found of current habitation, with latrine sites found on 7 burns: 113 (8 sites), 114, 115, 116, 117, 118 and 120. Tracks were found on burns 113 and 177, in peat running alongside the water course, and the only 2 live field sightings were seen here, on burns 112 and 118.

17 4.2.7. Allt Creagach

122

121 123 A

r e a

a 125 g 126

124

127

128 Allt Odhar

Allt Creagach

Figure 21: Water vole presence on Allt Creagach and its tributaries

Allt Creagach is a relatively small burn extending to the western border of the estate. It has 2 tributaries: Allt Creagach Beag and Allt Odhar, both of which contained water vole colonies. Allt Creagach Beag was occupied at very low densities, with only 24 burrow entrances found on 2 out of its 3 tributaries. A dead baby water vole was found on burn 122, which appeared to have been washed out of its nest, presumably by the heavy rains that had occurred a couple of days previously. This burn also contained a latrine site.

Allt Odhar was more densely inhabited, with 194 holes found on 5 out of 7 tributaries. A recently dead adult water vole was found on burn 125 as well as some tracks, and a latrine was found on burn 129.

18 18 4.2.8. Abhainn Crò Chlach

Abhainn Crò Chlaach Crò Abhainn ite Po a n an ch ao C

133

134 132

Caochan Coire an Daimh Dhuibh anDaimh Coire Caochan

129

130

r ò

m 131

n n o i

l l 139 A A

l l

ar B llt nan Cab A a

142 c h

135 140 141 136 150 138 137 149

148 145 144 143 147 158 146 157 155 156 154 152 151 153

Figure 22: Water vole presence on Abhainn Crò Chlach and its tributaries 19 Abhainn Crò Chlach is the most southerly extending burn on Coignafearn estate. It has a number of named smaller tributaries, and all of those surveyed supported water voles, but mainly in very low numbers, with most burns too steep to support colonies. Of these (Caochan Coire an Daimh Dhuibh, Allt Fionn-tom Mòr, Allt Ballach and Allt nan Cabar) 7 out of 14 contained colonies, but numbers of burrow entrances only ranged from 28 to 42, other than Caochan Coire an Daimh Dhuibh which had 82. As with the headwaters of the Eskin, many of these burns were peaty, with little or no green vegetation, and others were too steep.

Burrows were far more numerous on the unnamed tributaries, with 646 holes found on 23 out of 59 surveyed burns. Burns 144 and 153 in particular were very densely occupied, containing 94 and 136 burrow entrances respectively, a very high number given the small areas that contained suitable habitat. Altogether the Crò contained 823 burrow entrances, the 2 nd highest number found on any water course.

Latrine sites were found on 9 burns: 129, 136, 137, 140, 144, 146, 149, 153 and 154. Burns 140 and 144 contained 8 and 9 latrines respectively and tracks were found on burns 140 and 149.

The sources of many of Abhainn Crò Chlach’s tributaries are amongst the highest on the estate. Burn 144 contained the highest colony, at an altitude of 855m.

20 4.2.9. River Eskin

181

182

n i ch e na h rsa d a i Se u nan B h 159 ub a D n 180 lt le Al oi n a a M h e c h o c a ai 177 àr C L C a ao n c n ha ha n c a ao ’ C C ho i re S 184 183 h ei li ch

in River Esk 178

h c a n 160 o A

n a n tha e r trea i o C

n t-S t l a l ire A o llt C A Allt CoireAllt na Stri 161 162 163 164 170 179 171 168 165

166 169 172

173 167 174

175 176

Figure 23: Water vole habitation on River Eskin and its tributaries

The River Eskin extends to the far western border of the estate. It has a number of tributaries and together these contained 1344 water vole burrow entrances, the highest number recorded. Allt Coire an-Streatha contained 625 burrow entrances, by far the highest found on any burn on the estate, with colonisation present along its entire length. The characteristic ‘plop’ of a water vole diving into the water was also heard on this burn.

The main burns of Allt Coire nan Stri and Allt Coire nan Aonach did not contain many water voles, but several of their tributaries contained suitable habitat, supporting 231 and 226 burrow entrances respectively.

Allt Dubh nan Searsanach lies on flat land through much of its course, but was predominantly peaty or too fast flowing to support water voles. 2 populations were found on it but only in adjacent wet areas above an underground side stream.

Freshly cut lengths of grass were found outside a burrow on Caochan nan Buidheinn and 2 latrine sites on burn 183.

21 4.2.10 Other Burns

Water vole populations were found on 6 burns other than the more major water systems already discussed. Caochan an Lagain Ruaidh is a tributary of Allt a’Mhuilinn, which runs along the far eastern border of the estate. It contained 2 small populations of water voles, with 31 burrow entrances in total. Although it runs along flat ground for much of its course, the burn is slightly rocky and generally too fast-flowing to support water voles.

Caochan Garbh is a direct tributary of the River Findhorn and is unpopulated other than 4 burrow entrances found at its very source. Caochan Ruighe Chleirich and Caochan Feith an Otraich run parallel to each other and enter the River Findhorn in between Abhainn Crò Chlach and Elrick Burn. They each contain populations of water voles, with 152 and 31 burrow entrances found respectively, and a latrine site on the former.

One unnamed burn (burn 187) was found to support water voles, and was the lowest lying colony found, at 370m. Water voles were observed here most evenings from 20:45 onwards, with a maximum of two individuals seen at any one time. The site is a small static pond with 3 burrow entrances and 2 latrines.

22 4.3. Habitat Characteristics

Water voles were found to occupy a very particular type of habitat on Coignafearn Estate. Three factors appear to be key in determining water vole presence: slope of ground; speed of water flow and presence of green vegetation.

4.3.1. Slope

As in other studies, water voles were found to occupy predominantly flattish sites. 98.4% of sites were on a flat to slight incline and a further 3.7% were predominantly flat or slight but included some medium sections. Many burns had an overall medium-steep gradient but contained flattish sections within that area, and as long as the type of water course was suitable and there was an abundance of green vegetation, these invariably contained water vole colonies.

4.3.2. Speed and type of water flow

This appears to be less important than slope, with colonies found on burns ranging from static to fast-flowing. However, as expected, static to slow-flowing water is clearly the preferred habitat, with 64.3% of sites being on these types of water courses (static 26.2%; slow 38.1%). A further 28.6% were found on slow-medium and medium courses (4.2% and 24.4% respectively), with only 5.4% of sites being on medium-fast or fast-flowing sites (2.4% and 3% respectively). Water speed was not recorded at a number of sites due to the burn being underground, but as the water could often be heard in these types of environments it can probably be assumed that at those where it could not be heard the water was either static or flowing slowly. Out of the 9 sites where water was medium-fast or fast, all but 2 were on wholly or predominantly underground water courses, suggesting that water speed is less of a determinant of water vole presence in underground systems than on those over ground.

Figure 24: Unsuitable habitat: Medium-fast flowing rocky Figure 25: Ideal water vole habitat: static ponds linking a water courses. Although water voles will not be found along slow-moving water course on flat ground, with plenty of the banks of this type of water course there may be colonies suitable foraging material in the vicinity. Note burrows on above underground side-streams or adjacent wet areas far edge of nearest pond

23 The type of water course was also shown to be a good determinant of water vole presence. At 28.5% of sites the flow of water was either totally or predominantly underground, and at a further 33.3% the water frequently passed in and out of the ground. Therefore at 61.8% of sites that supported water voles, the water flow was underground for at least 50% of the area of habitation. At just over ¼ of sites where water voles were found the water was over ground (27.4%). However, of these, 91.7% were a trickle or less than 1m wide, with only 8.3% being wider than 1m. 8% of sites were on the edge of static pools

Figure 26: Excellent upland water vole habitat: lushly vegetated Figure 27: ‘Classic’ water vole habitat: Narrow, slowly-flowing flat ground above an underground water course. Where the land water course with an abundance of green vegetation rises in a clear step as in this photo, burrows will be found on the flat areas but not on the steep gradient linking the two areas.

4.3.3. Vegetation

Water vole colonies were only found in areas that were well vegetated with suitable species for foraging. Most colonies were surrounded by various grasses and sphagnum mosses, with Nardus stricta and Polytrichum commune being the most abundant species respectively. Occasionally colonies were found in areas that contained heather, however only if there was sufficient grass as well. Burns that had peaty banks with little vegetation never contained colonies.

Figure 28: Unsuitable water vole habitat: Peaty, steep-sided banks with very little green vegetation 24 4.3.3 Altitude

Water vole presence on Coignafearn estate ranged from 370m (burn 187: unnamed tributary of River Findhorn) to 881m (burn 95: Caochan Causerlich on Elrick Burn).

120

100

No. No. sites 40

0 300-399 400-499 500-599 600-699 700-799 800-899

Altitude (m) Figure29: Altitude of water vole colonies on Coignafearn Estate

Very few populations were found in lowland areas. The River Findhorn itself was not surveyed but is not expected to support water voles, being fairly rocky and, in places, fast-flowing. Side tributaries that were marked on the map were surveyed, and 1 of these was found to support water voles. There may be additional populations in unmarked burns or wet areas.

Over half of all colonies were found between 700 and 799m (51.6%), with large numbers also found at 600-699m and 800-899m (20% and 25.3% respectively). It can therefore be said that within the confines of Coignafearn estate altitude does not appear to affect water vole habitation.

25 4.4. Population size

The aim of this study was to determine the extent of water vole habitation on Coignafearn estate and to map its distribution. It is therefore not possible to estimate the size of the water vole population from these results. A method that has been used in other studies is to use a calibration equation based on the number of latrines found within a 100m stretch to give an estimate of the number of voles within that same stretch (Morris et al. 1996). .However as latrines were not found in all colonies and burns were not surveyed in 100m sections, this method was not suitable. Alternatively, trapping can be used to estimate population size, e.g. Aars et al. (2001), but that was not possible within the scope of this study.

It was also not possible to determine the number of colonies. Many burns were occupied for several hundred metres, and, due to the lack of latrine sites, no indication of where one colony ended and another began. 191 distinct areas of water vole habitation were found, so at an absolute minimum there are 191 colonies. However this number is likely to be several times greater as it includes areas where burrows extended into more than one burn in an unbroken zone of colonisation, and also areas where burrows were found over stretches of several hundred metres.

The number of burrow entrances has been used in this study to give an idea of population density. Clearly this is not an accurate measure, as colonies also have underground entrances, and number of holes does not necessarily bear a direct relation to the number of individuals, but it provides a useful measure of the extent of colonisation and a means of comparing degrees of habitation between water courses.

It should also be emphasised that although certain burns clearly have extant populations due to the presence of fresh latrine sites, this does not mean that those on which latrines were not found do not have extant populations. Coignafearn estate receives frequent and heavy rainfall, meaning that latrines may be washed away. Additionally, many latrines may be underground or on peat ledges beneath overhanging tussocks and so may not be seen in these types of environments (WildCRU 2004).

4.5. Evidence of predators

Otter ( L. lutra ) tracks were seen on 6 burns and spraints on a further 3. Many of the lower rocky water courses in which otter spraints would normally be found were not surveyed due to their unsuitability to water vole habitation. Stoat ( M. erminea ) scats were found on 5 burns. No mink (M. vison ) scats were encountered, although some tracks were found on burn 72 (tributary of Caochan Meall nan Laogh, Elrick Burn) which could possibly be mink.

26 5. Conclusion

This study is the first detailed survey of water voles on Coignafearn estate. As such the results provide a baseline for future surveys to monitor colony trends and distribution.

Coignafearn has been shown to support a flourishing water vole population. All of the major tributaries of the River Findhorn contain water vole colonies and at least 77% of these have extant populations. Within that surveyed, all available habitat appears to have been colonised, with altitude not found to limit water vole habitation.

These results correlate with other studies in terms of the types of environments where water voles were found. Prime habitat comprises upland areas where the water is predominantly underground or flowing in and out of the ground. Where water is flowing over ground, static pools or slow-flowing channels are most favoured. An abundance of green vegetation is critical, and water courses that are rocky or peaty are rarely occupied.

Evidence of stoat ( M. erminea ) and otter ( L. lutra ) habitation was found, and these species are both known to prey upon water voles. Additionally, golden eagles ( Aquila chrysaetos ) may take some individuals. However, encouragingly, only one potential sign of mink was found.

Therefore it can be said that, in terms of conservation of a rapidly declining species, Coignafearn estate supports a critically important water vole population.

27 Acknowledgements

Roy Dennis, of the Highland Foundation for Wildlife, asked me to carry out the survey and gave me advice and support. Coignafearn Estate very kindly provided accommodation in the beaters’ bothy. Sandy Dey, head keeper, and his wife Sophie helped me in many ways and I am very grateful to Lewis, Jimmy, Andrew and Bert for lifts to remote parts of the study area.

28 References

Aars, J., Lambin, X., Denny, R. & Griffin, A.C. (2001) Water vole in the Scottish uplands: distribution patterns of disturbed and pristine populations ahead and behind the American mink invasion front. Animal Conservation 4, 187-194

Barreto, G.R., Rushton, S.P., Strachan, R. & Macdonald, D.W. (1998) The role of habitat and mink predation in determining the status and distribution of water voles in England. Animal Conservation 1,129–137

Capreolus Wildlife Consultancy (2005) The ecology and conservation of water voles in upland habitats. Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 099 (ROAME No. F99AC320)

Lambin, X., Telfer, S., Cosgrove, P. & Alexander, G. (1996) Survey of water voles and mink on the rivers Don and Ythan. A report to SNH. Ref 70/96/F1A/007

Lambin, X., Fazey, I., Sansom, J., Dallas, J., Stewart, W., Piertney, S., Palmer, S.C.F., Bacon, P.J. & Webb, A. (1998) Aberdeenshire water vole survey: the distribution of isolated water vole populations in the upper catchments of the Rivers Dee and Don. Research, Survey and Monitoring Report No. 118

Lawton, J. & Woodroffe, G. (1991) Habitat and distribution of water voles: why are there gaps in a species’ range. Journal of Animal Ecology 60 , 79–91.

Morris, P.A, Morris, M.J, MacPherson, D., Jefferies, D.J., Strachan, R. & Woodroffe, G.L. (1998) Estimating numbers of the water vole, Arvicola terrestris – a correction to the published method. Journal of Zoology 246 , 61–62

Strachan, C. Strachan, R. & Jefferies, D.J. (2000). Preliminary Report on the changes in the water vole population of Britain as shown by the national Surveys of 1989–90 and 1996–98. The Vincent Wildlife Trust, London

WildCRU, Oxford University (2004). Water vole surveys in Fife and Central Cairngorms. Scottish Natural Heritage Commissioned Report No. 058 (ROAME No. F01AC316)

29 Appendix 1: Characteristics of watercourses where water vole presence was detected

Burn No. Altitude Other signs Slope Burn Measurements (cm) Speed of Flow No. holes (m) 1 3 No 412-443 Flat-slight In and out/W10,D3 Medium-fast 2 2 No 452 Flat In and out Medium 3 8 No 433 Flat In and out Medium 4 122 No 710-740 Flat Trickle/In and out/W30,D3 Medium 5 15 UST 732 Flat Underground Static 6 7 No 700 Flat On junction of small unmarked stream. Slow Main channel W100,D15 7 9 UST 703-724 Flat-slight W35,D2/In and out/Pools Slow/Static 8 18 Dead WV, cut lengths old grass, 595-623 Flat In and out Slow latrine 9 6 UST 625-639 Flat In and out Slow 10 8 No 582-613 Slight In and out Slow 11 9 UST 583-619 Flat In and out Slow 12 32 UST 605-619 Flat Trickle/Pools Slow/Static 13 14 UST 572-593 Flat In and out Slow 14 43 UST 603-619 Flat W50,D5 but varies/In and out Slow 15 20 UST 655-670 Flat In and out 16 93 UST, latrine 656-689 Flat W150,D30 but varies Static/Slow/Medium-fast 17 69 No 695 Flat Underground/Pools 18 19 UST 691-752 Flat-slight W20,D5/W100,D15/Mainly underground Slow/Medium 19 4 UST 705 Flat Mainly underground 20 32 UST 654-668 Flat W110,D40/In and out Slow/Static 21 28 UST 649-686 Flat In and out/W30,D50 Slow 22 79 UST 659-701 Flat-medium Underground Slow 23 37 No 655-669 Flat-slight W50,D30/In and out Medium 24 97 UST, cropped grass 658-707 Flat Underground/Pools Slow/Medium 25 15 UST 667-681 Flat Mainly underground/W50,D15 Slow/Medium 26 1 UST 678 Flat Mainly underground 27 51 UST 654-686 Flat In and out/W100,D15/W50,D30 Slow/Medium 28 16 No 709-720 Flat Underground 29 41 UST 663 Flat Underground Slow/Medium 30 9 No 663-728 Flat W33,D40 Slow 31 22 No 748-760 Flat In and out/W70,D20 Medium-fast/Static 32 14 Latrine, UST 701-706 Flat-slight Underground

30 30 33 5 No 784 Flat In and out 34 10 UST 722-756 Flat In and out Static/Medium 35 350 2 latrines 707-747 Flat Varies Varies 36 11 UST 749-743 Flat In and out Static/Medium 37 312 3 gardens, UST, cropped grass, 719-773 Flat W50,D45 but varies/In and out Slow/Fast bedding, dead WV and dead WV skin 38 23 No 760-762 Flat In and out 39 37 UST 709-724 Flat In and out Static 40 1 No 730-745 Slight In and out Medium 41 9 No 745 Flat Underground Static 42 42 No 609-628 Flat Underground Slow 43 1 No 608 Flat Underground 44 228 UST 623-696 Flat-slight Underground Medium 45 13 UST 667-690 Flat In and out Static/Slow 46 84 No 699-740 Flat In and out Static/Slow 47 1 No 728 Flat In and out 48 92 UST 730-736 Flat Mainly underground/Trickle Slow 49 27 No 730-737 Flat Underground 50 149 UST 640-718 Flat-slight W5,D15/In and out/W60,D20 but varies Static/Slow 51 6 UST 689 Flat W10,D1/Trickle Fast 52 40 No 712 Flat Underground 53 140 UST 698-711 Flat In and out 54 11 No 701 Slight-medium Trickle/In and out Slow 55 177 No 685-705 Flat W50,D5/Underground Slow 56 17 UST 692 Flat In and out Static 57 6 No 690 Flat Underground 58 6 UST 689-694 Flat W40,D10/In and out Slow/Static 59 5 UST 672 Flat Underground/Pools Static 60 80 No 684 Flat In and out Slow 61 5 No 633 Flat Underground Medium 62 20 UST 703-715 Flat Underground/Trickle/W20,D20 Slow 63 40 Old latrine 643-670 Flat Mainly underground 64 12 8 latrines 550 Flat W45,D20 Static 65 15 UST 728-736 Flat Mainly underground 66 18 No 689-716 Flat Mainly underground 67 10 UST 718-736 Flat-slight W10,D4 Static/Slow 68 23 UST, cropped grass, 3 latrines, 736-742 Flat W14,D4/Trickle/Underground Slow old lengths grass outside hole

31 31 69 6 No 728-738 W70,D20 Fast 70 46 UST, 4 latrines, fresh lengths 734-737 Flat Underground/W35,D5/W60, D20 Slow/Slow-medium grass outside hole, cropped grass, bit of dead WV 71 6 WV legs 743-748 Flat W70,D30 but varies Slow 72 27 Latrine 732-752 Flat Underground Slow 73 7 No 727-731 Flat In and out Slow 74 5 UST 710-717 Slight Underground 75 15 UST 730-736 Flat Mainly underground Slow 76 50 No 711-747 Slight W40,D8 but varies Slow 77 9 UST 749-751 Slight Trickle/In and out Medium 78 72 Latrine, UST 757-770 Flat-Slight Underground trickle at side of river 79 44 No 759-807 Flat In and out/Trickle Slow 80 85 Latrine 716-814 Flat-slight In and out/Pools/W350,D10 Slow 81 32 UST 766-822 Flat-slight In and out/Trickle Medium 82 57 UST 783-790 Slight-medium Mainly underground 83 96 UST, cut lengths grass at burrow 758-819 Slight Underground Medium entrance and cropped grass, latrine 84 33 No 793-802 Flat In and out Medium 85 40 UST, latrine 733-759 Flat In and out Medium 86 56 UST, latrine, cropped grass 736-757 Slight-medium In and out around holes 87 53 UST 763 Flat In and out Medium 88 14 UST 789 Flat Pools/Trickle Static 89 50 UST 837-840 Flat Mainly underground Slow 90 96 UST 819-836 Flat-slight Underground Slow 91 30 UST 826-849 Flat W20,D20 Slow-medium 92 8 No 820-830 Flat In and out/Trickle Slow-medium 93 7 UST 838 Flat In and out Medium 94 5 No 838 Slight In and out Medium 95 46 UST 808-881 Flat Wet area to side of main stream Slow-Medium (W75,D50)/Underground 96 3 UST 872 Slight Underground 97 5 No 870 Flat Pools Static 98 1 No 740 Flat In and out Fast 99 261 UST 728-842 Flat-slight W50,D20/In and out/W300,D30 but Medium/Medium-fast varies/Small underground sidestream 100 43 UST 868 Slight In and out Fast

32 32 101 28 No 792 Flat-medium In and out/Underground Medium/Fast 102 2 UST 827 Flat Trickle Medium 103 23 UST 792-810 Slight-medium In and out 104 3 UST 832-839 Medium W30,D5 Medium 105 75 UST, latrine 817-827 Medium W30,D5 Medium 106 77 No 744-773 Slight In and out/Trickle Slow-medium 107 13 No 835-855 Slight Underground/Trickle Slow 108 15 No 849-851 Slight Underground/Pools Static 109 15 UST 730-740 Slight Mainly underground 110 20 No 721-739 Flat Underground 111 18 UST 735-770 Flat In and out 112 0 Live sighting 702 Flat Underground sidestream 113 127 Tracks, 8 latrines, UST 707-746 Flat In and out Slow 114 53 UST, latrine 723-741 Flat In and out 115 31 Latrine, UST 726-753 Flat In and out 116 16 Latrine, UST 732-735 Flat In and out 117 19 Tracks, 2 latrines 740-756 Slight In and out Slow 118 98 UST, 3 latrines, live sighting 772-839 Flat Pool by main river/W50,D7/In and out Static 119 1 No 778 Flat 120 101 3 latrines, UST 791-820 Flat Pools/In and out/Mainly underground Static 121 12 UST 717-723 Flat Underground Static 122 12 Dead baby WV, latrine 704-713 Flat W75,D40/Underground Static 123 2 No 709 Flat Underground 124 3 No 682 Medium Underground 125 90 UST, freshly dead WV, tracks 716-732 Flat In and out/Pools Slow/Static 126 27 UST 728 Flat Trickle Slow 127 37 No 692-703 Flat Underground 128 37 No 701-740 Flat-slight Mainly underground Medium 129 33 Latrine 745-752 Slight Underground Medium 130 13 No 745-746 Flat In and out Slow 131 15 No 744-763 Flat Pools/W50,D4/Underground Static 132 6 UST 728 Slight Underground 133 92 UST 728-731 Flat-slight Underground/In and out 134 10 UST 727-737 Flat In and out/Pools Static 135 42 No 777-813 Flat In and out Medium 136 82 Old latrine 766-781 Flat In and out Slow 137 21 UST, latrine 804-826 Flat W20,D10 but varies/Pools Medium/Static 138 2 UST 816-819 Flat In and out 139 3 No 748 Flat In and out

33 33 140 21 8 latrines, tracks 760-781 Flat In and out 141 8 No 786-800 Flat In and out Slow 142 5 No 786-787 Flat In and out Slow 143 29 UST 796-844 Flat-slight W20,D10 but varies/W50,D5 Medium 144 94 9 latrines, UST 837-855 Flat In and out Static/Medium 145 13 UST 825-826 Flat Mainly underground Medium 146 68 2 latrines 807-820 Flat-slight In and out Slow-Medium 147 30 UST 812-824 Flat Mainly underground Slow 148 64 UST 822-838 Flat-slight In and out Medium 149 8 Latrine, tracks 826 Flat In and out 150 3 UST 813 Flat Underground sidestream 151 4 No 873 Flat In and out Medium 152 8 UST 823 Flat In and out Static/Medium 153 136 3 latrines, UST 832-835 Flat In and out Slow 154 19 3 latrines 826-837 Flat W100,D6 but varies/Pools/In and out Slow 155 3 No 827-828 Flat In and out Slow 156 1 No 820 Flat In and out 157 19 No 845-851 Slight In and out 158 13 UST 827-840 Flat Mainly underground/Trickle Slow 159 11 UST 682-687 Flat Underground/Underground sidestream 160 45 No 692-715 Flat W30,D5 Medium 161 64 No 723-731 Slight Underground 162 30 No 733-737 Slight/medium In and out Slow 163 14 UST 735-737 Slight Underground 164 33 UST 735-742 Flat In and out/Underground Static 165 13 No 745-746 Flat Mainly underground 166 1 UST 756 Flat W75,D20 Slow 167 39 No 787-789 Flat W100,D15/In and out Static 168 29 UST 772-776 Flat In and out Slow-medium 169 7 No 734-746 Flat W75,D30 Static 170 7 No 736-739 Flat W75,D30 Slow 171 53 No 736-743 Flat In and out Static 172 24 UST 745 Flat In and out/Mainly underground 173 7 No 763-788 Flat Pools Static 174 45 No 796-805 Flat In and out/Pools Medium/Static 175 48 No 794-806 Flat In and out/Pools Medium/Static 176 8 No 795-800 Flat In and out/Trickle Slow 177 36 UST 676-685 Flat Side of burn W50,D10 Slow 178 625 UST, dive heard 625-698 Flat-slight Mainly underground/W75,D30

34 34 179 128 UST, foraging-lawn 625-748 Flat Above underground sidestream (main Slow channel W200-600,D40 but varies) 180 17 UST 693-697 Flat W300,D50 Static 181 26 Fresh lengths grass outside hole, 640-716 Flat-slight Mainly underground/W500,D55 Static latrine 182 15 No 683-699 Flat-slight In and out/Pools Slow 183 50 2 latrines, UST 683-700 Flat W30,D5/W50,D45 Static 184 15 UST 685-777 Slight In and out Static/Medium 185 4 UST 678-693 Flat Underground Medium 186 27 UST 644 Flat Underground Static 187 3 2 latrines, live sightings 370 Flat Pool Static 188 4 No 622 Flat Underground 189 152 Latrine 605-675 Flat Underground 190 31 UST 656-666 Flat Mainly underground Slow

UST = Under-snow tunnelling. Italics = other burns.

35 35