Seasonal variation of activity patterns in roe deer in a temperate forested area

摘要: We investigated the activity patterns of a European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) population living in forested Apennine area central Italy, order to shed light on environmental and biological factors that were expected account for observed daily yearly bases. Daily seasonal 31 radio-collared assessed through sessions radio tracking total period 18 consecutive months. Roe showed bimodal throughout year, with two highest peaks recorded at dawn dusk. Activity males females differed during territorial (from early spring late summer), whereas they did not nonterritorial period. Most likely, behavioral thermoregulation can be held responsible variation different seasons. In winter, instance, was significantly higher than other seasons daylight night. Nocturnal summer lowest winter. During hunting season, moreover, lower levels rest year. The prediction would show full moon nights, when predation risk assumed higher, confirmed by our data. rhythms thus subjected both endogenous factors, latter working as exogenous synchronization cues. Accordingly, changing ecological conditions, circadian cycle could seen result complex interactions among rhythm, digestive physiology, external modifying factors.