Revnestørrelse

Revnestørrelse is a term used in wildlife biology to refer to the size of a fox (Vulpes vulpes) den or bur. The word is derived from the Danish words rev (fox), nest (nest), and størrelse (size). Revnestørrelse is typically measured in terms of diameter, depth, and volume, and can be expressed in meters or cubic metres. Researchers usually use calipers or laser rangefinders to determine internal dimensions, while external measurements are taken with tape measures around the entrance.

The significance of revnestørrelse lies in its relationship to fox reproductive success and survival. Larger dens provide more protection from predators, harsher weather, and human disturbance. They also allow for multiple breeding pair occupancy during periods of high population density. Studies in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom have shown that dens with diameters greater than 0.8 m are preferred by breeding pairs, whereas smaller dens are often abandoned in favor of larger alternatives. In addition, dens that are deeper and wider support a greater number of pups, which confers higher juvenile survival rates.

Revnestørrelse is not only important for understanding fox ecology but is also used in conservation management. Wildlife agencies use dens sizing data to assess the health of fox populations, to determine the suitability of habitat restoration projects, and to inform the placement of artificial dens for reintroduction programs. Recent research has begun to incorporate revnestørrelse into models that predict shifts in fox distribution due to climate change, emphasizing the role of den characteristics in species resilience.