De facto refugia, ecological traps and the biogeography of anthropogenic cougar mortality in Utah

摘要: Aim Modern extirpations within the Carnivora have generally followed human footprint. The contagion hypothesis predicts that range contractions should occur along gradients in activity, leaving relict populations remote areas at edges. We evaluated this for cougars (Puma concolor), a widely distributed and heavily exploited North American carnivore. Location Colorado Plateau Great Basin ecoregions Utah, USA. Methods We examined spatial distribution of anthropogenic cougar mortality (n = 4217) using indices remoteness habitat quality GIS/multiple-regression analytical framework. To identify disproportionately high or low exploitation rates, we used break-points from literature local field studies. defined de facto refugia as watersheds with mean annual harvest rates ≤ 24% predicted population, whereas ecological traps were those exceeded value. Results Cougar greater core lower periphery their statewide geographic range. largest overrepresented arid population densities, concentrated remoteness. Ecological dispersal distances refugia, highlighting potential source-sink dynamics. Patterns predictions hypothesis, being spatially correlated access high-quality habitats. Main conclusions Low-quality habitats on margins are likely to harbour carnivore event widespread human-caused declines, therefore may conservation value than has previously been assumed. Resource managers consider context develop strategies other wide-ranging, low-density carnivores tendencies.