Predation Risk as a Factor Affecting Sexual Segregation in Alpine Ibex

摘要: Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) are polygynous ungulates that exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism and segregation. To test the hypothesis risk of predation plays a key role in development segregation (habitat segregation) this species, compositions locations groups were recorded from February 2003 to October 2004. Individual fixes marked adult males females Gran Paradiso National Park Italy collected monthly over 4-year period (January 2000‐December 2003). Distances measured between each location nearest refuge area (rocky slopes), source disturbance (roads hiking trails). Group size was not related distances areas or sources disturbance, but sex, age, weaning played spatial During rut, kept nearer rocky slopes further trails than males. The presence young also influenced behavior females: mothers made use more frequently near less other females. In contrast, no difference behaviors pregnant nonpregnant spring. Age an important space by males, Young (2‐5 years) stayed closer rocks did middle-aged (6‐11 years), both (.11 years). Adult males; likewise, latter Males with human presence, likely because good foraging opportunities. Although our findings do exclude explanations, they support reproductive strategy‐predation hypothesis. Moreover, shown as factor leading age