Characteristics of small mammal populations in thinned and clearcut stands in Japanese larch (Larix leptolepis) plantations

The goal of this study was to gain an understanding of small mammal populations in thinned and clearcut stands in Japanese larch (Larix leptolepis) plantations on Mt. Maehwasan, Hongcheon, Korea. Foliage profiles, diameter at breast height distribution, coverage of ground, and volume of coarse woody debris were significantly different between thinned and clearcut stands. Total number of captured small mammals, number of captured striped field mice, and mean striped field mouse population densities obtained from Jolly–Seber estimates were higher in clearcut stands. Coverage of ground, volume of coarse woody debris, and number of downed trees were critical variables for abundance of small mammals in this study. Our results suggest that retention of coarse woody debris and downed trees prevent reduction of small mammal populations after forest practices in Japanese larch plantations.