Linking trade-offs in habitat selection with the occurrence of functional responses for moose living in two nearby study areas

摘要: A species may modify its relative habitat use with changing availability, generating functional responses in selection. Functional selection are expected to occur when animals experience trade-offs influencing their selection, but only a few studies date have explicitly linked the underlying faced by animals. We used data from 39 female moose fitted GPS telemetry collars two nearby study areas Canada investigate if (1) were food/cover trade-off as typically acknowledged literature, and (2) showed response of food/cover-rich habitats. also examined how patterns varied seasonally, between areas. The occurrence strongly areas, could not always be related measurable trade-off. observed more often area where environmental conditions severe (colder temperatures, higher precipitations, lower food availability). Selection coefficients less variable among individuals that area, suggesting constrain tactics promote development responses. Moose reacted availability different types seasons, reflecting found considerable behavioral differences adjacent therefore recommend caution extrapolating results. advocate for wider identify critical habitats management or conservation perspective.