Habitat use and preference by polecats (Mustela putorius L.) in a Mediterranean agricultural landscape

摘要: An investigation is reported on the use of and preference for riparian vegetation, road verges, ponds farms by polecats Mustela putorius L. living in a fragmented cultivated area. Eighteen both sexes were marked with radio-collars monitored 2–18 months each. Individuals single nightly radio-locations, during 12- 24-h continuous sessions. Sex seasonal variations density key habitat features within home ranges analysed. In order to measure strength attraction features, average distance these observed trajectories, corresponding Monte-Carlo simulations, was compared. Polecats positively selected vegetation their range throughout year. Female contained more than those adult males breeding season. Males expanded season, increased accordingly. The remnants apparently acted as feature providing food cover. Furthermore, linear interconnected landscape elements can facilitate long-range movements involved search mates.