Selection of rub trees by brown bears (Ursus arctos) in Hokkaido, Japan

摘要: Tree rubbing by brown bears (Ursus arctos) is a well-known behavior throughout the animal’s distribution. There still insufficient information on characteristics and function of behavior. We investigated seasonal frequency tree bears, reasons for selection rub trees, bear signs around trees in mixed coniferous–broad-leaved deciduous forest Hokkaido, Japan. Between 1998 2009, we found 172 confirmed 995 rubbings. that were used repeatedly within year multiple years (more than 10 years). was observed from April to November, with peak between May June corresponds mating season bears. Abies sachalinensis selected broad-leaved avoided based estimated availability natural forest. The preference might be because strong odor resin attracts their head neck resinous substances increasing detectability markings receptor Selected located right beside trail relatively level ground among along roads or trails. Trees had large diameter at breast height. These would also serve increase access markings. Series pad-shaped depressions most frequently (70 %) indication rubbing, followed debarking (51 %) clawing (30 %). In terms visual olfactory signal amplification, physical damage have enhance smell as result outflow resin. conclude associated main purpose this scent marking communicate intraspecifically during season.