Modeling Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) habitat in the Pacific Northwest, U.S.A.

摘要: Gray wolves (Canis lupus) were once widespread throughout most of North America including the Pacific Northwest. Wolves extirpated from Northwest in early 20th century and have been absent for over 60 years. The success reintroduction efforts Idaho greater Yellowstone area, however, has caused wolf populations these regions to rise dramatically, giving way dispersal into Oregon. This study used a Geographic Information System (GIS) pack locations Rocky Mountain region model gray habitat. A priori models created under hypotheses that habitat (1) will include relatively high prey density, (2) be limited by human influence, (3) favorable landscape characteristics such as forest cover public ownership, (4) may influenced some combination factors. Logistic regression was select best predicting resulting tested Idaho, Montana, Wyoming applied Oregon reveal approximately 68,500 km2 potential could support population 1450 wolves. final model, which included variables lands, identify possible colonization area. relevant other parts world where reintroductions are planned or recolonizations taking place. In addition, methods presented our applicable wide-ranging large carnivores regions.