Varied tastes: home range implications of foraging‐patch selection

摘要: Despite evidence of home range behaviour across many taxa, the mechanisms underlying development ranges are still unknown. Recently, models have been developed to explore these for both territorial and non- species. One such model a generic forager suggests animal memory optimal foraging theory as driving movement stable ranges. Although this is promising ungulate development, assumptions yet be evaluated. Using GPS relocation data from two populations elk, we explored how patch selection might influence structure in elk Cervus elaphus. During summer growing season, identified sampled patches used by elk. Points along paths not were identically comparison. We contrasted ‘patch’ ‘nonpatch’ points, identify differences herd, sex season using combination directly remotely sensed covariates. In general, selected with higher biomass, cover, slope lower traffic on nearest road. These patch-selection results speak between areas other demonstrate that physiographic anthropocentric features selection. Our offer insight what defines valuable free-ranging ungulate.