Influence of hybridization on animal space use: a case study using coyote range expansion

摘要: Hybridization between animal species is likely to increase as distributional and reproductive barriers continue break down due anthropogenically driven changes in habitat climate. Yet, the influence of hybridization on ecological interactions ecosystem function remains understudied. Animal space use, an important component dynamics, a complex relationship intrinsic factors, which can influence, extrinsic such environmental heterogeneity. Using coyote Canis latrans, well-studied with long history wolves dogs spp., we sought assess relative factors determining use. We conducted meta-regression analysis 67 datasets home range size across North America generated models predict size. Climate (latitude) variability played roles patterns through their availability prey resources. However, found be preeminent factor driving variation non-introgressed populations having considerably smaller ranges than those from within hybrid zone eastern America. This pattern was upheld despite areas inside outside zone. Our findings suggest that may serve affecting ecosystems, hybrids have altered requirements, presumably different niche dimensions, compared parental species. This, turn, role particular play communities. Synthesis Hybridization used (n = 67) examine latrans use independent introgressed coyotes had larger ranges. communities.