Conservation of otter (Lutra lutra) in a Mediterranean area: the importance of habitat quality and temporal variation in water availability

摘要: 1. This study analyses quantitatively the association between habitat characteristics and annual variation in water availability on otter (Lutra lutra L.) distribution a large Mediterranean area (13 717 km2) southern Spain. 2. There was strong positive correlation quality, estimated after two first components of principal component analysis matrix variables×sites, an index presence/absence, presence being most commonly associated with unpolluted undisturbed sites surrounded by woodland. 3. After univariate analysis, main freshwater features were statistically different otters lacking them. In general, occurred medium-sized fluvial habitats, high bankside vegetation cover, unpolluted, low or very human disturbance forests dehesas (Mediterranean-like savannah). 4. Water availability, inferred from balance, strongly influenced type body used most. As increased so did range during these periods they tended to colonize low-order streams. During shortage, usually found high-order streams reservoirs, only that kept water. 5. This work shows areas is factors — man-induced degradation natural variability availability. The addition second factor one introduces additional risks survival populations compared more northerly humid areas. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.