Impact of human infrastructure on the spatial distribution of Blind Mole Rats ( Nannospalax ehrenbergi judaei ): A case study from Kibbutz Netzer Sireni, Israel

Human infrastructure, particularly urbanization and agriculture, significantly alters wildlife's habitat preferences and behaviour, including subterranean species such as the Blind Mole Rat (Nannospalax ehrenbergi). This study investigates this species' spatial distribution and mound-building activity across agricultural fields and built-up areas within Kibbutz Netzer Sireni, Israel. Monthly surveys from March to June 2023 recorded the number and distance between mounds. Results revealed a higher concentration of mounds in agricultural fields than in urban areas, which may reflect a preference for agricultural habitats due to favorable soil conditions and food availability. However, limited dispersal opportunities and spatial constraints within the central kibbutz area may also contribute to this pattern. The number of observed mounds decreased over the study period, with the highest count recorded in March and the lowest in June. The distance between mounds varied significantly across months, with the greatest distances observed in agricultural fields, particularly in June. A Generalized Linear Model showed a significant interaction between habitat type and month, indicating the temporal effect on mound distance differed by habitat. These findings suggest urbanization and agricultural practices influence Blind Mole Rat's spatial distribution and mound-building behaviour. The study underscores the importance of understanding habitat fragmentation's effects on subterranean species and the need for conservation strategies considering spatial and temporal dynamics.