Optimum group size for defending heterogenous distributions of resources: A model applied to red foxes, Vulpes vulpes, in Oxford city*

摘要: Under some circumstances, group territoriality is thought to be explained by patterns of resource availability, if the smallest economically defensible territory for a minimum social unit (breeding pair) can also sustain additional animals. Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) are typically solitary carnivores, breeding in pairs, but urban and suburban areas Oxford city they live groups three five adults while foraging largely independently. Previous attempts explain their behaviour have considered variations availability with time; consideration spatial heterogeneity alone, however, suggests simpler explanation terms defence costs. We show how group-living result from competing neighbours maximizing acquisition minimizing costs within an environment fine-scale heterogeneity.