Abstract
Context
Few habitat modeling studies consider multiple spatial or temporal scales; less identify the operative scale of an organism's response to predictor variables. Optimizing habitat suitability models yields robust, reliable inferences about species-habitat relationships that can inform conservation efforts for species, such as jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor).
Objectives
We provide one of the first examples of evaluating temporal nonstationarity between seasons while simultaneously evaluating the effects of spatial and temporal scales on habitat selection. We sought insight into the predictor variables and associated scales determining seasonal distribution.
Methods
We selected predictor variables known to affect felid occurrence, then identified the optimal scale for each variable. We calculated the focal mean at spatial scales ranging from 500 m to 15,000 m. We then developed habitat suitability models and evaluated the effects of temporal scale on species co-occurrence.
Results
Patterns of jaguar and puma habitat selection varied. For jaguars, primary forest and its resources at fine scales were dominant predictors. For pumas, primary forest, secondary forest, and agropecuary lands at broad scales drove habitat selection. We observed divergent seasonal habitat selection, particularly for jaguars. Models confirmed that these sympatric predators might engage in spatial coordination to facilitate coexistence, as increased spatial overlap at a given scale in each season was associated with a diversification of landcover types.
Conclusions
Our results highlight the importance of considering spatial and temporal scales and temporal nonstationarity in habitat modeling. We suggest habitat modeling studies evaluate and optimize spatial and temporal scale relationships.
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Data availability
All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article (and its supplementary information files).
Code availability
Unavailable.
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Acknowledgments
We thank the Ministry of Environment of Panama (MiAmbiente) and the Guna General Congress for granting the research permits; Idea Wild for field equipment; Mamoni Valley Preserve for providing logistical support; and the Cocobolo Reserve for allowing access to their land and facilities. We also thank B. Kaplin, P. Palmiotto, M. Kelly, and A. Giordano for their expertise, and S.P.E.C.I.E.S. for providing camera traps during the pilot study. The authors are grateful to the field assistants and volunteers involved with data collection. We thank our anonymous reviewers for suggestions to improve this manuscript.
Funding
This research was supported by Panthera, the Shanbrom Family Foundation, Mamoni Valley Preserve, and the Laney Thornton Foundation.
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KC and MY acquired the funding, conceived of the study design, methodology, performed the investigation, and analyzed the data. The first draft of the manuscript was written by KC and MY with input from all authors. KC, MY, RV, and HW designed the visualization. HW and SC directed and supervised the formal analysis and data interpretation and contributed to the review and editing of the manuscript.
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Craighead, K., Yacelga, M., Wan, H. et al. Scale-dependent seasonal habitat selection by jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor) in Panama. Landsc Ecol 37, 129–146 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-021-01335-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-021-01335-2