Environmental Determinants of Circadian Activity of Free-Ranging Iberian Lynxes

摘要: From February 1983 to May 1985, 12 Iberian lynxes ( Lynx pardinus ) (six adults and six juveniles) were radiotracked at hourly intervals for 114 24-h periods Donana National Park, southwestern Spain. Nine environmental factors related, by season age class, indices of daily activity derived from movement rates pulses the motion sensor in transmitters. Coefficients determination higher winter summer than spring. Juvenile appeared more sensitive adults. Photoperiod had a major influence R 2 = 29%) on circadian pattern throughout year. Environmental significantly related during maximum temperature, pressure changes, evaporation, moonphase. In summer, important variables moonphase, hours with moonlight, high pressures. spring, only rainfall temperature (minimum maximum) showed slight but significant lynxes. Although some climatological may have direct effect lynx, others (e.g., moonlight) act indirectly influencing Mediterranean rabbit, lynx's main prey.