Habitat preferences by wild boar Sus scrofa in southern Sweden based on clusters of GPS positions

摘要: The wild boar is a reintroduced game species in Sweden which has become problem because of damage on crops and causing traffic accidents. This comparative study with the aim to answer following questions: (i) habitat sites are most frequently visited by (ii) what characteristic features used habitats, (iii) way do use these habitats? Clusters were defined from southernmost part Sweden, where one female (supposed be leader sow) each group 13 hoards was equipped GPS/GSM-collar. GPS coordinates managed ArcGIS 9.1 find clusters. Only night clusters (between sunset sunrise), used, i.e. during time animals active. (also called positions) matched compared random positions (from same type). In field expected related either a) food search, b) resting sites, c) farrowing nests or d) other activities four types (called terrain below): 1) Deciduous forest, 2) Coniferous mixed 3) Open area, e.g. pasture for grazing meadow 4) Agricultural land (cultivated areas). variables measured; vegetation ground layer, bush layer tree direct light ground, humidity shelter. One third observed shown feeding supplementary provided hunters. However, those not included analyses focused natural conditions. type among area showed also contributed feeding. as made up about tenth remaining assumed have been search activities. results significant differences within pairs area. There, more areas bushes trees samples. Significant difference found between mosses Bryophyta Marchantiophyta, Wood-sorrel Oxalis acetosella European beech Fagus sylvatica. No Direct Humidity appeared this study.