BROWN BEAR FOOD HABITS AT THE BORDER OF ITS RANGE: A LONG-TERM STUDY

摘要: Brown bear (Ursus arctos) food habits were examined from 1,500 fecal samples collected between 1974 and 2004 in the Cantabrian Mountains of northern Spain. The most important items graminoids forbs spring, fleshy fruits (especially bilberries) summer, hard mast autumn winter acorns). Animal matter also was consumed throughout year. We found differences 3 brown population nuclei within population, which could be enormous interest for habitat management. investigated how much interannual variation different influenced our diet estimates. High fluctuations among years rather than values around a mean inherent to some items. However, other items, seems reliable descriptor. that additional data increased coefficient associated with estimates suggest existence directional changes have been largely neglected. Although studies is fixed not changeable, results show long-term may reveal use patterns or composition bears wildlife species. Thus, incorporating into monitoring protocols can helpful designing evaluating both current future management actions.