Riparian vegetation provides crucial shelter for resting otters in a human-dominated landscape

摘要: Abstract The riparian vegetation belt is one of the few remaining structures that provide coverage for wildlife in many anthropogenic landscapes. It provides shelter species and functions as corridors dispersal. However, this landscape increasingly utilised by humans leisure activities. loss with a concurrent increase human disturbance these habitats can pose serious threat to wildlife. One potentially affected Eurasian otter Lutra lutra. In Alps, otters are nocturnal rest during day when activity high. To study impact presence on resting site selection otters, we radio-tracked nine up 30 months eastern Central Alps Austria. We analysed relation disturbance. Altogether, identified 285 sites scattered throughout territories individual at an average distance 144 m between sites. Almost all (95%) were located natural vegetation, making most important habitat otters. found evidence within shapes selection. Otters preferred narrow strips there was no presence, but selected areas wider level increased. Outside period, animals rested below ground more often than above, which suggests also visual cover. Our highlights importance restoration protection wildlife, particularly where activities intense. information effective conservation management considering combination spatial distribution specific requirements Areas chosen way likely benefit other utilise belt.