Climate and the Individual: Inter-Annual Variation in the Autumnal Activity of the European Badger (Meles meles)

摘要: We establish intra-individual and inter-annual variability in European badger (Meles meles) autumnal nightly activity relation to fine-scale climatic variables, using tri-axial accelerometry. This contributes further understanding of causality the established interaction between weather conditions population dynamics this species. Modelling found that measures daylight, rain/humidity, soil temperature were most supported predictors ACTIVITY, both years studied. In 2010, drier year, model included SOLAR*RH interaction, RAIN, and30cmTEMP (w = 0.557), while 2012, a wetter RAIN*10cmTEMP 0.999). ACTIVITY also differed significantly individuals. 2012 autumn study period, badgers with longest per noctem subsequently exhibited higher Body Condition Indices (BCI) when recaptured. contrast, under 2010 conditions, good BCI engaged less activity, poor active. When compared on same calendar dates, control for night length, duration mean was longer (9.5 hrs ±3.3 SE) than (8.3 ±1.9 SE). increasing associated net-positive energetic gains (from BCI), likely due better foraging conditions. greater potential net-negative energy returns, individual nutritional state proved crucial modifying regimes; thus we emphasise how ‘one size fits all’ approach should not be applied ecological responses.