Diel variation in movement patterns and habitat use by the Iberian endemic Cabrera vole: Implications for conservation and monitoring

摘要: Abstract Understanding variations in animal movement and habitat selection behaviour over fine spatial temporal scales remains a particularly challenging goal ecology conservation. Here we document for the first time diel patterns use by wild-ranging Cabrera voles fragmented Mediterranean farmland, based on radiotracking data (2006–2008) of 25 adult individuals occupying stable home-ranges vegetation mosaics dominated wet grasses shrubs. Results indicated that proportion animals spent moving, distance moved, strength main types were closely linked behavioural traits, which varied considerably across different periods 24-h cycle. In general, moved more frequently larger distances during daytime (between 06 h15–22 h00), was when also used intensively. These generally consistent seasons, though dry season there some tendency decrease activity hottest hours day 10 h15–14 h00), with peaks around crepuscular (06 h15–10 h00 18 h15–22 h00). Overall, our study provides evidence may show notable shifts finer scale than previously considered. This supports idea knowledge species movement-habitat relationships should strongly contribute to improving local management, as well effective sampling monitoring programs targeting species.