Badger Meles meles sett site selection in low density Mediterranean areas of central Spain

Abstract:

We studied the habitat selection of badgers Meles meles (Linnaeus, 1758) in a mountainous area of central Spain through badger sett location, in relation to a series of variables related to the micro and macrohabitat structure considered potentially important for habitat requirements (food and shelter) were choosen. The analysis was carried out using the Savage index (W) for use/availability data. Badgers in this area prefer mid-elevation mountain areas, where both dehesas (open woods with Pastures) and pine forests prevail. Lower elevation areas were avoided. Badgers are associated with watercourses, but we found, no significant differences for distance to villages or for roughness. Badgers preferred trees and rock covered areas, which provided shelter places. Badger conservation in Mediterranean mountains requires mosaic habitats (dehesas). The low density that has been found could be due both to human factors (eg persecution and habitat loss) and to a probable low suitability value of Mediterranean environments for the badger.

Año de publicación:

1999

Keywords:

• Meles meles
• Low density
• Mountains
• Mosaic habitats
• Conservation
• Mediterranean
• Sett location

Fuente:

scopus