AbstractThe vertical distribution of small mammals was investigated in seven important mountain ranges of the Hengduan Mountains in Yunnan Province, such as Mt.Gaoligong and Mt.Yunling. The geographical distribution trends, rules and correlated variables were analyzed, based on the mean diversity indices of small mammals in the vertical zones of these ranges. The results demonstrated that the species diversity index decreased gradually from the south to the north and from the west to the east. The most important variables were latitude and rainfall. In addition, the peak of small mammals'density was analyzed and discussed in those areas.