Tree Seed Production and Food Conditions for Rodents in an Oak Wood in Southern England

Seed production and seed losses were monitored in an oak ( Quercus robur ) wood in southern England between 1975 and 1988. In addition to acorns, seeds from several large beech ( Fagus sylvatica ) and sweet chestnut ( Castanea sativa ) trees which occurred within the wood, and from the understorey of hazel ( Corylus avellana ) trees, were also monitored. The seeds from these four tree species are all subject to heavy predation by rodents, as well as other seed-eaters such as birds and insects.