Spatial organization in wolves Canis lupus recolonizing north-west Poland: Large territories at low population density

摘要: Abstract Monitoring of the wolf Canis lupus is a demanding task as it lives in low densities, utilizes vast home ranges and disperses over large areas. These factors make obtaining accurate data about population parameters whole distribution area species impossible. Thus detailed local studies on socio-spatial organization are essential to calibrate information obtained larger area. We applied GPS/GSM telemetry, non-invasive genetic sampling, year-round tracking, camera trapping howling stimulations determine number family groups, density home-range sizes wolves Drawa Forest (DF, western Poland, 2500 km2), an recently recolonized by species. Home three collared male ranged from 321.8 420.6 km2 (MCP 100%) 187.5 277.5 km2 (Kernel 95%), but core areas had size 30.5–84.7 km2 (MCP50%) 35.0–88.8 km2 50%). Mean near neighbour distance between centres 6 tracked pack homesites was 15.3 km. The DF increased 14 individuals 2013/2014 30 2016/2017. annual rate increase varied 43% 2014/2015 7% final year. Population for study relatively (1.2 indiv./100 km2 2016/2017), densities within territories two packs studied with telemetry were 1.9 1.5 indiv./100 km2. 3.5 5.6 individuals, largest comprising 8 wolves. pups observed summers (June–August) 4.5. Differences range eastern Poland indicate that results regional cannot be freely extrapolated despite close relationships. Thus, decisions related management habitats should based intensive studies.