Responses of wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) when provoked by a snow-kiter or skier: A model approach

摘要: Abstract We compared reindeer ( Rangifer tarandus ) fright responses towards a directly approaching snow-kiter or skier in Norefjell-Reinsjofjell, Norway during winter 2006–2007. Fright response distances sampled the field were significantly longer when approached by than skier. A simulation model predicts different outcome of daytime disturbances for from free ranging snow-kiters versus skiers confined to prepared ski trails. The expected number encounters with increases linearly increasing until it reaches threshold level and then stabilizes, but reaching will vary depending on speed kite (252 at 8.8kmh −1 96 20kmh ). relative loss habitat feeding following moving randomly within their range progressively up 100% reduction 241 111 8.8 , respectively. Above this snow-kiters, not feed have nowhere escape. Reindeer reduce 7.5% 105. 105 as continues increase, find refuge away trails time returns zero percent 133 more. Long potentially very negative population consequences necessitate additional information snow-kiting activities appropriate management measures habitats.