Preliminary observations on the food availability and diet composition of the Romanian hamster Mesocricetus newtoni (Rodentia, Cricetidae)

The Romanian hamster Mesocricetus newtoni is endemic to South-Eastern Romania (Dobruja region) and North-Eastern Bulgaria, prefers steppic, arid, uncultivated habitats, but also found in alfalfa fields, less often corn cultures field-protecting vegetation belts. Previous studies provide only limited data regarding the diet of this cryptic species. one family group (one female four pups) was monitored for 10 days, during vernal season. collected using camera traps direct observations, supplemented by photos. Plants were identified at species level. A survey performed a radius 25 m2 around burrows pratological method, estimating percentage each plant present habitat. number 16 plants as part hamster, mostly herbaceous within Brassicaceae family. According Erodium cicutarium (Geraniaceae) Papaver rhoeas (Papaveraceae) consumed most frequently, followed Descurainia sophia (Brassicaceae), Sisymbrium orientale Medicago minima (Fabaceae) Buglossoides arvense (Boraginaceae). In studied area, 38 taxa determined characterized ruderal segetal (weeds arable land) plants, native Eurasia. purpose study novel on composition accordance with availability emphasize importance conservation measures its preferred which are crucial survival