First records on habitat use of semi-feral cattle in southern forests: topography reveals more than vegetation

摘要: While the presence of cattle in forests is quite common, how they use this habitat often overlooked. When examined, most studies focus on measurements vegetation variables influencing selection. This current report provides a suitable model to study by livestock forested areas means GPS tracking selected individuals. The was applied data from semi-feral order obtain first description their southern forests. Furthermore, accounted for individual variability, and hinted at population patterns use. positions 15 cows with collars were recorded covering twelve months Nothofagus (southern beech) forest Patagonia (Argentina). By projecting these location into geographical information system (GIS), resource selection probability function (RSPF) that considers topographic built. beech showed large interindividual but also some similar characteristics which enable proper habitat-use patterns. It found mainly affected such as altitude combination slope aspect. In both cases below average relative availability, suggesting preferred range. Livestock tended avoid closed shrublands slight preference meadows. Cattle give significant importance define type mountainous might be because an ecological adaptation major features types due ferality. results are basis management applications predictive maps landscapes.