AbstractBehavioral responses of meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus), inhabiting sludge‐treated outdoor enclosures, were studied during the 1987 growing season. Significant accumulations of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn were found in the soils of the sludge‐treated enclosures. Significant uptake of Zn and Cd were observed inPoaspp., whileBromus japonicumsignificantly accumulated Zn. Additionally,Bromusfrom the sludge‐treated enclosures showed a strong trend of increased Cd. Both of these plant species are potentially eaten by voles. Both male and female sludge‐exposed voles significantly bioaccumulated Cd in their livers and brains. Alterations in locomotor activity and exploratory behavior were found in sludge‐exposed females that appeared either not to habituate to the novel environment of the activity chamber; or were hyperactive as a consequence of Cd exposure; or possibly an interaction between the two. No changes in behavior of males exposed to sludge was observed. We believe that the observed differences between the male and female voles were due to sex‐related differential responses to
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