Selection of Den Sites by Black Bears in the Southern Appalachians

摘要: We evaluated selection of den sites by American black bears (Ursus americanus) in the Pisgah Bear Sanctuary, western North Carolina, comparing characteristics dens at 53 with availability habitat annual home ranges and study area. also tested whether den-site differed sex, age, reproductive status bears. In addition, we component an existing model for predicted where would select sites. found selected far from gravel roads, on steep slopes, high elevations relative to what was available both Den-site did not differ sex or but it status. Adult females cubs preferred areas that were relatively adult without not. The overestimated value near underestimated moderately areas, include elevation as a predictor variable. Our results highlight importance evaluating terms use characteristics.