Postglacial colonization of Ireland by mustelids, with particular reference
to the badger (Meles meles L)
Lynch JM
JOURNAL OF BIOGEOGRAPHY 23 (2): 179-185 MAR 1996
Abstract:
There exists some confusion as to the means by which Ireland developed its current
mammalian fauna. In this paper, I use a multivariate analysis of cranial measurements
to test the hypothesis that Irish mustelids should resemble their Scottish counterparts
more so than those from England, thus providing morphological evidence for postglacial
colonization via an Ireland/Scotland landbridge. An examination of badger (Meles
meles L.), stoat (Mustela erminea L.) and otter (Lutra lutra L.) failed to provide
support for this hypothesis. Based on these results and consideration of our knowledge
of the ecology of these species, it is concluded that postglacial colonization
via a landbridge was unlikely. Evidence for human-aided colonization is reviewed.
It is concluded that, while further morphologic and genetic studies are very much
required, the problem of postglacial colonization can only be solved through archaeozoological
research.