Home-range size of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris): a report from two areas in Central Italy

摘要: Although the behavioural ecology of European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) has been studied in several countries, its home-range size is still poorly known due to elusive behaviour species living typically low population densities. In our study, 11 wildcats from two distinct areas, Maremma Regional Park (Tuscany; 3 males and 1 female) Paradiso di Pianciano Estate (Umbria; 6 female), both located Central Italy, were by means classical VHF radio-tracking. Home ranges calculated Brownian bridge movement model (BBMM). Variables significantly affecting were: study area, gender interaction between gender*age. The potential effect reproductive season nocturnal period was not supported. main findings indicate that: (1) sizes Tuscany larger than those Umbria; (2) positively related age individuals; (3) exploited home females all age-classes except for sub-adult age-class; this latter pattern never emerged any previous radio-telemetry study. Population density, different management regimes areas considered local abundance prey may explain differences areas. estimated Umbria slightly reported across Europe, while Tuscan area greater.