Evaluation of a Winter Habitat Suitability Index Model for Elk in West-Central Alberta

摘要: We evaluated a habitat suitability index (HSI) model developed to assess impacts of forestry on elk (Cervus elaphus) winter range in west-central Alberta. The HSI consisted 3 submodels that collectively utilized 14 variables represent the life requisites food, thermal cover, and hiding cover. assessed performance each submodel by determining if there was positive correlation between preference (PI) classes significant difference mean for sites selected versus available sites. used stepwise logistic regression determine which significantly differentiated AII original performed poorly. Of 20 entered, identified only as important differentiating feeding from sites: tree height, stem density, distance unimproved access. Performance food improved when these their relationships were applied. Only density bedding sites, but using its relationship did not improve cover submodels. Our approach testing involved separating scores is an alternative method population data.