Transformation of small mammals fauna of Eastern Fennoscandia under the influence of intense woodcutting

Change of structure and population of small mammals under the influence of intense wood exploitation is analyzed on the basis of long-term (1958-2013) stationary and expeditionary research covering the whole territory of Eastern Fennoscandia (the Kola Peninsula, Finland, Karelia and Karelian Isthmus of Leningrad region). Most species display common reactions to the intense woodcutting. Among them are the following: depopulation, transition to uneven population dynamics with short drastic raises and long profound depressions, formation of unstable mosaic allocation, disturbance of rhythm and decrease of general intensity of reproduction. From comparative and ecological point of view we analyzed common patterns of woodcutting impact on habitat structure, population, allocation and ecological peculiarities of more than ten species of small mammals of Eastern Fennoscandia. We also examined prognosis of further anthropogenic transformation of forest environment and measures to prevent its negative influence on the forest fauna.