Small mammal communities as indicators of habitat health: A review

Small mammal communities are increasingly recognized as reliable indicators of habitat health due to their ecological sensitivity, rapid life histories, and broad distribution across diverse ecosystems. Changes in the abundance, diversity, and composition of small mammals often reflect alterations in vegetation structure, soil quality, hydrology, and anthropogenic disturbance. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the ecological functions of small mammals, their responses to environmental changes, and the methodologies employed to assess their populations. Case studies from forest, grassland, wetland, and urban ecosystems illustrate the potential of small mammal metrics to inform conservation planning, habitat restoration, and environmental monitoring. Limitations associated with sampling biases, temporal variability, and ethical considerations are discussed, along with emerging opportunities to integrate technological advancements such as environmental DNA (eDNA) and automated monitoring systems. Incorporating small mammal community assessments into habitat evaluations provides a powerful framework for early detection of ecosystem degradation and supports evidence-based habitat management strategies.