Forest thinning changes movement patterns and habitat use by Pacific marten

摘要: Simplifying stand structure to reduce fuel density is a high priority for forest managers; however, affects Pacific marten (Martes caurina) movement and connectivity are unknown. We evaluated whether thinning forests fuels influenced movements of marten. collected paths from 22 martens using global positioning system telemetry evaluate habitat selection describe patterns. quantified motion variance, speed, path sinuosity in 3 types that differed structural complexity (i.e., complex [dense], simple [thinned], open). hypothesized would differ between predicted 1) select with increased (complex > simple > open); 2) increase (sinuosity, variance) decrease speed when traveled through stands complexity; 3) speeds during summer, indicating the breeding season; 4) males move more rapidly because their larger home ranges. Martens 0.5–27.2 km/day an average (SD) 1.4 (0.4) km/hour. selected ranges fewer openings compared study area overall. Within ranges, strongly over openings. Speed were most consistent time sinuous slower stands. Movement was erratic linear than both In stands, patterns intermediate Females generally moved slowly, sinuously, less variably males. quickly, winter summer. However, avoided simplified structure, altered we observed those suggested such treatments may negatively affect ability forage without risk predation. Fuel simplify affected connectivity. Given these risks, treating justified elevation forests, risks can be minimized by applying below elevations where typically occur. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.