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John D. C. Linnell - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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eurasian Lynx habitat selection in human modified landscape in norway effects of different human habitat modifications and behavioral states
Biological Conservation, 2015Co-Authors: Yaelle Bouyer, John Odden, Gilles San Martin, Pascal Poncin, Roseline Beudelsjamar, John D. C. LinnellAbstract:Abstract Eurasian Lynx are often regarded as being particularly sensitive to human land-use. However, in the European context where human influence is pervasive, the conservation of Lynx requires that they be integrated into the human-dominated landscape. Although previous studies have looked at how Lynx respond to human land-use in a broad sense, they have failed to examine the details of how different types of human induced impacts (forest fragmentation, human density, different types of transport infrastructure) influence distinct Lynx behaviors. Furthermore, they have not examined the extent to which Lynx modify their fine scaled avoidance behavior of anthropogenic landscape features according to the specific behaviors (resting sites, kill sites, movement) in which they are engaged and how these relationships are modified by prey density or the sex of the Lynx. We used Resource Selection Functions to examine how 19 GPS-marked Lynx in southeastern Norway responded to an index of cumulative human habitat modification while engaged in different activities. We found that Lynx select for areas with medium levels of human modification, avoiding both the very highly modified and the areas with low degrees of modification. Females in general appear to be less tolerant of human modification than males, especially when it comes to resting sites. Terrain (ruggedness and elevation) appears to be important in permitting Lynx to exploit heavily modified areas. Our study demonstrates that Lynx show a nuanced response to human habitat modification, which offers hope for their conservation in Europe.
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physiologically persistent corpora lutea in eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx longitudinal ultrasound and endocrine examinations intra vitam
PLOS ONE, 2014Co-Authors: Johanna Painer, John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, K Jewgenow, Martin Dehnhard, Jon M Arnemo, Thomas B Hildebrandt, Frank GoeritzAbstract:Felids generally follow a poly-estrous reproductive strategy. Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) display a different pattern of reproductive cyclicity where physiologically persistent corpora lutea (CLs) induce a mono-estrous condition which results in highly seasonal reproduction. The present study was based around a sono-morphological and endocrine study of captive Eurasian Lynx, and a control-study on free-ranging Lynx. We verified that CLs persist after pregnancy and pseudo-pregnancy for at least a two-year period. We could show that Lynx are able to enter estrus in the following year, while CLs from the previous years persisted in structure and only temporarily reduced their function for the period of estrus onset or birth, which is unique among felids. The almost constant luteal progesterone secretion (average of 5 ng/ml serum) seems to prevent folliculogenesis outside the breeding season and has converted a poly-estrous general felid cycle into a mono-estrous cycle specific for Lynx. The hormonal regulation mechanism which causes Lynx to have the longest CL lifespan amongst mammals remains unclear. The described non-felid like ovarian physiology appears to be a remarkably non-plastic system. The Lynx's reproductive ability to adapt to environmental and anthropogenic changes needs further investigation.
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Spatial and temporal variation in natal dispersal by Eurasian Lynx in Scandinavia
Journal of Zoology, 2012Co-Authors: Gustav Samelius, Peter Segerstrom, John Odden, Henrik Andrén, Olof Liberg, Pontus Ahlqvist, John D. C. Linnell, Karin SkoldAbstract:Dispersal patterns are male biased in most mammals whereas the patterns are less clear within the genus Lynx (four species), with findings ranging from male biased dispersal to males and females dispersing equally far and with equal frequency. In this study, we examined various aspects of natal dispersal by Eurasian Lynx in Scandinavia by comparing dispersal patterns of 120 radio-marked Lynx in two study areas in Sweden (Sarek and Bergslagen) and two study areas in Norway (Hedmark and Akershus). We found that male Lynx dispersed farther than female Lynx with mean dispersal distances of 148 and 47 km for male and female Lynx that were followed to the age of 18 months or older (range = 32–428 and 3–215 km for each sex, respectively). In fact, female Lynx often established home ranges that overlapped or partly overlapped that of their mothers. Similarly, the dispersal rate was greater among male Lynx than among female Lynx, with 100% of the males dispersing compared with 65% of the females dispersing. This study showed that dispersal patterns by Lynx in Scandinavia were male biased, with (1) male Lynx dispersing farther and more frequently than female Lynx and (2) female Lynx often settling near their natal areas. These patterns, in turn, will have large impact on gene flow and the ability by Lynx to colonize new and formerly occupied areas.
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factors affecting eurasian Lynx kill rates on semi domestic reindeer in northern scandinavia can ecological research contribute to the development of a fair compensation system
Biological Conservation, 2011Co-Authors: Jenny Mattisson, Erlend B Nilsen, Jens Persson, John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, Henrik AndrénAbstract:Semi-domestic reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) are the main prey for Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in northern Scandinavia. This causes large, but poorly documented, losses of reindeer. Although the compensation schemes differ between Norway and Sweden, there is a legal requirement in both Scandinavian countries that losses of semi-domestic reindeer to large carnivores should be fully compensated. The current level of compensation payment is based on limited data on Lynx kill rates on reindeer. The main goal of this study was to quantify Lynx kill rates on reindeer across a range of ecological conditions in northern Scandinavia. A total of 35 Lynx were monitored during 3667 days. All Lynx individuals killed reindeer. However, we observed a high variation in individual kill rates. Kill rates were strongly affected by sex and social status (i.e. females with and without kittens), as well as season and reindeer availability. The highest kill rates were observed in summer for male Lynx, and the lowest were observed during winter for solitary Lynx at low reindeer density. In summer, several female Lynx switched completely to small prey species even at high densities of reindeer. The present political goals for Lynx conservation in Scandinavia require that Lynx occur in the reindeer husbandry area where reindeer are the only suitable ungulate prey available. Accordingly, it is therefore impossible to have the total prevention of depredation as a management goal. Rather depredation levels must be limited such that they are considered acceptable, and fair compensation payments should be paid. Our study is the first empirical quantification of the magnitude of Lynx depredation on semi-domestic reindeer. This is an important step necessary to enable the setting of fair compensation levels and will hopefully lead to a reduction in conflict level concerning the potential impacts that Lynx have on reindeer.
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Fear of the unknown: local knowledge and perceptions of the Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx in western Macedonia
Oryx, 2011Co-Authors: Nicolas Lescureux, John D. C. Linnell, Sabit Mustafa, Dime Melovski, Aleksandar Stojanov, Gjorge Ivanov, Vasko Avukatov, Manuela Von Arx, Urs BreitenmoserAbstract:The remnant population of Balkan Lynx Lynx Lynx martinoi is small, isolated and highly threatened. Since 2006 a conservation project has surveyed its status and promoted its recovery in Albania and Macedonia. Eurasian Lynx are often associated with conflicts of an economic or social nature, and their conservation requires a focus on the people sharing the landscape with the species. In this study we adopt methods and conceptual frameworks from anthropology to explore the local knowledge and perceptions of Lynx among rural hunters and livestock breeders in the western mountains of the Republic of Macedonia in south-east Europe. The main finding was that local people rarely saw or interacted with Lynx. As the level of interactions with this species is very low, the Lynx doesn’t appear to be a species associated with conflicts in Macedonia. There was also a general lack of both scientific and local knowledge, which has led to somewhat negative attitudes, mainly based on myths and rumours. Poaching of Lynx and their prey seem to be the main barriers to Lynx conservation.
Krzysztof Schmidt - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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Update of the helminth fauna in Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in Poland
Parasitology Research, 2018Co-Authors: Marta Kołodziej-sobocińska, Krzysztof Schmidt, Yegor Yakovlev, Zuzana Hurníková, Iwona Ruczyńska, Michał Bednarski, Małgorzata TokarskaAbstract:The Eurasian Lynx ( Lynx Lynx ) is a strictly protected species of large carnivore in Poland. It inhabits forest complexes in north-eastern Poland and the Carpathian region in southern Poland. The status of the Lynx within Poland requires special attention because its range decreased between 1980 and 2001 and has not yet recovered. One of the factors negatively affecting Lynx populations is diseases, particularly parasites. The helminth fauna of the Eurasian Lynx is not fully known in Poland. Previous coprological studies revealed that Polish Lynx have been infected with seven species of nematodes, three species of cestodes, and one species of trematode. In this study, we present new data based on examination of opportunistically collected Lynx carcasses. The aim of the study was to complement data on the helminth fauna of Eurasian Lynx inhabiting Poland based on morphological and molecular analysis of parasites. Four species of cestodes— Taenia lynciscapreoli , Mesocestoides lineatus , Spirometra sp., and Taenia krabbei —were found for the first time in Eurasian Lynx from Poland and three previously reported species of nematodes— Ancylostoma tubaeforme , Toxascaris leonina , and Toxocara cati —were confirmed. Larvae of Trichinella britovi were also detected in Eurasian Lynx in Poland for the first time.
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The importance of genetic variability and population differentiation in the Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx for conservation, in the context of habitat and climate change
Mammal Review, 2011Co-Authors: Krzysztof Schmidt, Mirosław Ratkiewicz, Maciej K. KonopińskiAbstract:1 The Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx occupies a variety of environmental and climatic conditions, and the majority of present-day European populations have either recovered from severe demographic bottlenecks, or are living in fragmented habitat. These factors may have affected the genetic variability of Lynx populations. We summarize available data on genetics, population status and ecology of these felids to shed light on the pattern and mechanisms behind their genetic variability and population differentiation in Europe. 2 Genetic studies conducted so far, based on mtDNA and microsatellites, have shown that the Eurasian Lynx has low to moderate genetic variability. Variability is lowest in the north (Scandinavian bottlenecked population), but is also low in the Carpathian region. A trend towards loss of genetic variation has been noted in fragmented and reintroduced populations. Genetically, the populations are highly differentiated from each other. 3 There are clear relationships between the pattern of Lynx genetic variability, differentiation between the populations, and such factors as population history (demographic bottlenecks), social interactions and habitat fragmentation. The genetic divergence between Lynx populations is also strongly correlated with the depth and duration of snow cover. 4 Our review provides evidence that the Lynx is undergoing significant genetic differentiation, due to several factors. To enable better planning of conservation programmes for the Eurasian Lynx, researchers should identify the Evolutionarily Significant Units among its populations, using different classes of molecular markers.
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genetic structure of the eurasian Lynx population in north eastern poland and the baltic states
Conservation Genetics, 2009Co-Authors: Krzysztof Schmidt, Rafal Kowalczyk, Janis Ozolins, Peep Mannil, Joerns FickelAbstract:We analyzed the genotypes of Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) from three populations in the westernmost part of the species main range. One population was situated at the distribution edge (NE Poland) and the two other (Latvia and Estonia) were located within the main, contiguous range of the species. The aim was to determine if the genetic composition varied among these populations and if there was evidence of isolation among them. Based on microsatellite allele frequencies, we found the allelic richness in Polish Lynx to be lower than that in Lynx from Latvia and Estonia. We also found significant differentiation among the Lynx populations, with the NE Poland population forming a distinct genetic group relative to the two other populations (R ST = 0.15 and 0.22, P < 0.0001). We suggest that genetic differentiation among Lynx populations is the result of habitat insularisation that limits gene flow. This finding emphasizes the necessity to consider the Lynx genetic differentiation in conservation planning of this species in Poland.
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spatial interactions between grey wolves and eurasian Lynx in bialowieza primeval forest poland
Ecological Research, 2009Co-Authors: Krzysztof Schmidt, Wlodzimierz Jedrzejewski, Henryk Okarma, Rafal KowalczykAbstract:Various species of large predators are reported to influence each other through interference or exploitation competition that may affect demography and survival of the subordinate species. We analyzed spatial relationships between grey wolf (Canis lupus) and Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in Bialowieza Primeval Forest (BPF, eastern Poland) to determine how they partitioned the space. The wolves (n = 8) and Lynx (n = 14) were radio-tracked in 1991–1999. Three wolves and seven Lynx were radio-tracked simultaneously in 1994–1996. Territories of wolf packs and home ranges of Lynx overlapped considerably (76% of wolf territories and 50% of Lynx home ranges, on average). In three cases, their core areas were also overlapping. Wolf-Lynx dyads with overlapping home ranges were simultaneously located at distances from 0 to 28 km from each other. We found neither avoidance nor attraction between wolves and Lynx occupying the same areas. We concluded that in BPF, the two large predators coexist due to specialization on different preferred prey and heterogeneous habitat.
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Microhabitat selection by Eurasian Lynx and its implications for species conservation
Acta Theriologica, 2008Co-Authors: Tomasz Podgórski, Krzysztof Schmidt, Rafał Kowalczyk, Agnieszka GulczyńskaAbstract:We studied microhabitat selection of the Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx (Linnaeus, 1758) at 116 hunting and 88 resting sites in Białowieża Primeval Forest (Poland) to describe its characteristics and determine the importance of habitat structure for stalking prey and for security during resting. We identified Lynx-used sites by radio-tracking 3 male and 3 female Lynx. When hunting, the Lynx did not select for any type or age class of forest. During both summer and winter, the Lynx selected sites characterized by high complexity (number of structures useful for stalking: fallen logs and branches, root plates, patches of dense bushes) and low visibility. In summer, hunting sites were often located in the vicinity of small forest glades that provided good stalking opportunities for Lynx and rich foraging resources for roe deer — the main prey of Lynx. The habitat at kill sites was more open than at sites where the prey was cached, with higher visibility, lower density of trees and poorer undergrowth. The most important characteristic of resting sites was very low visibility that resulted mainly from using young pine or spruce thickets in the winter and dense undergrowth of oak-lime-hornbeam and ash-alder forests in the summer. The information provided by this study could have direct implications for Eurasian Lynx conservation by guiding forest restructuring to better suit the species’ biological requirements.
John Odden - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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eurasian Lynx habitat selection in human modified landscape in norway effects of different human habitat modifications and behavioral states
Biological Conservation, 2015Co-Authors: Yaelle Bouyer, John Odden, Gilles San Martin, Pascal Poncin, Roseline Beudelsjamar, John D. C. LinnellAbstract:Abstract Eurasian Lynx are often regarded as being particularly sensitive to human land-use. However, in the European context where human influence is pervasive, the conservation of Lynx requires that they be integrated into the human-dominated landscape. Although previous studies have looked at how Lynx respond to human land-use in a broad sense, they have failed to examine the details of how different types of human induced impacts (forest fragmentation, human density, different types of transport infrastructure) influence distinct Lynx behaviors. Furthermore, they have not examined the extent to which Lynx modify their fine scaled avoidance behavior of anthropogenic landscape features according to the specific behaviors (resting sites, kill sites, movement) in which they are engaged and how these relationships are modified by prey density or the sex of the Lynx. We used Resource Selection Functions to examine how 19 GPS-marked Lynx in southeastern Norway responded to an index of cumulative human habitat modification while engaged in different activities. We found that Lynx select for areas with medium levels of human modification, avoiding both the very highly modified and the areas with low degrees of modification. Females in general appear to be less tolerant of human modification than males, especially when it comes to resting sites. Terrain (ruggedness and elevation) appears to be important in permitting Lynx to exploit heavily modified areas. Our study demonstrates that Lynx show a nuanced response to human habitat modification, which offers hope for their conservation in Europe.
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physiologically persistent corpora lutea in eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx longitudinal ultrasound and endocrine examinations intra vitam
PLOS ONE, 2014Co-Authors: Johanna Painer, John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, K Jewgenow, Martin Dehnhard, Jon M Arnemo, Thomas B Hildebrandt, Frank GoeritzAbstract:Felids generally follow a poly-estrous reproductive strategy. Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) display a different pattern of reproductive cyclicity where physiologically persistent corpora lutea (CLs) induce a mono-estrous condition which results in highly seasonal reproduction. The present study was based around a sono-morphological and endocrine study of captive Eurasian Lynx, and a control-study on free-ranging Lynx. We verified that CLs persist after pregnancy and pseudo-pregnancy for at least a two-year period. We could show that Lynx are able to enter estrus in the following year, while CLs from the previous years persisted in structure and only temporarily reduced their function for the period of estrus onset or birth, which is unique among felids. The almost constant luteal progesterone secretion (average of 5 ng/ml serum) seems to prevent folliculogenesis outside the breeding season and has converted a poly-estrous general felid cycle into a mono-estrous cycle specific for Lynx. The hormonal regulation mechanism which causes Lynx to have the longest CL lifespan amongst mammals remains unclear. The described non-felid like ovarian physiology appears to be a remarkably non-plastic system. The Lynx's reproductive ability to adapt to environmental and anthropogenic changes needs further investigation.
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Spatial and temporal variation in natal dispersal by Eurasian Lynx in Scandinavia
Journal of Zoology, 2012Co-Authors: Gustav Samelius, Peter Segerstrom, John Odden, Henrik Andrén, Olof Liberg, Pontus Ahlqvist, John D. C. Linnell, Karin SkoldAbstract:Dispersal patterns are male biased in most mammals whereas the patterns are less clear within the genus Lynx (four species), with findings ranging from male biased dispersal to males and females dispersing equally far and with equal frequency. In this study, we examined various aspects of natal dispersal by Eurasian Lynx in Scandinavia by comparing dispersal patterns of 120 radio-marked Lynx in two study areas in Sweden (Sarek and Bergslagen) and two study areas in Norway (Hedmark and Akershus). We found that male Lynx dispersed farther than female Lynx with mean dispersal distances of 148 and 47 km for male and female Lynx that were followed to the age of 18 months or older (range = 32–428 and 3–215 km for each sex, respectively). In fact, female Lynx often established home ranges that overlapped or partly overlapped that of their mothers. Similarly, the dispersal rate was greater among male Lynx than among female Lynx, with 100% of the males dispersing compared with 65% of the females dispersing. This study showed that dispersal patterns by Lynx in Scandinavia were male biased, with (1) male Lynx dispersing farther and more frequently than female Lynx and (2) female Lynx often settling near their natal areas. These patterns, in turn, will have large impact on gene flow and the ability by Lynx to colonize new and formerly occupied areas.
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factors affecting eurasian Lynx kill rates on semi domestic reindeer in northern scandinavia can ecological research contribute to the development of a fair compensation system
Biological Conservation, 2011Co-Authors: Jenny Mattisson, Erlend B Nilsen, Jens Persson, John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, Henrik AndrénAbstract:Semi-domestic reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) are the main prey for Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in northern Scandinavia. This causes large, but poorly documented, losses of reindeer. Although the compensation schemes differ between Norway and Sweden, there is a legal requirement in both Scandinavian countries that losses of semi-domestic reindeer to large carnivores should be fully compensated. The current level of compensation payment is based on limited data on Lynx kill rates on reindeer. The main goal of this study was to quantify Lynx kill rates on reindeer across a range of ecological conditions in northern Scandinavia. A total of 35 Lynx were monitored during 3667 days. All Lynx individuals killed reindeer. However, we observed a high variation in individual kill rates. Kill rates were strongly affected by sex and social status (i.e. females with and without kittens), as well as season and reindeer availability. The highest kill rates were observed in summer for male Lynx, and the lowest were observed during winter for solitary Lynx at low reindeer density. In summer, several female Lynx switched completely to small prey species even at high densities of reindeer. The present political goals for Lynx conservation in Scandinavia require that Lynx occur in the reindeer husbandry area where reindeer are the only suitable ungulate prey available. Accordingly, it is therefore impossible to have the total prevention of depredation as a management goal. Rather depredation levels must be limited such that they are considered acceptable, and fair compensation payments should be paid. Our study is the first empirical quantification of the magnitude of Lynx depredation on semi-domestic reindeer. This is an important step necessary to enable the setting of fair compensation levels and will hopefully lead to a reduction in conflict level concerning the potential impacts that Lynx have on reindeer.
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what shapes eurasian Lynx distribution in human dominated landscapes selecting prey or avoiding people
Ecography, 2009Co-Authors: Mathieu Basille, John Odden, Reidar Andersen, John D. C. Linnell, Ivar Herfindal, Hugues Santinjanin, Kjell Arild Hogda, Jean-michel GaillardAbstract:In the multi-use landscape of southern Norway, the distribution of Lynx is likely to be determined both by the abundance of their favoured prey the roe deer and the risk associated with the presence of humans because most Lynx mortalities are caused by humans (recreational harvest, poaching, vehicle collisions). We described the distribution of the reproductive portion of the Lynx population based on snow-track observations of females with dependent kittens collected over 10 yr (19972006) in southern Norway. We used the ecological-niche factor analysis to examine how Lynx distribution was influenced by roe deer, human activity, habitat type, environmental productivity and elevation. Our first prediction that Lynx should be found in areas of relatively high roe deer abundance was supported. However, our second prediction that Lynx should avoid human activity was rejected, and Lynx instead occupied areas more disturbed in average than those available (with the exception of the most densely occupied areas). Lynx, however, avoided the most disturbed areas and our third prediction of a trade-off between abundance of prey and avoidance of human activity was supported. On the one hand, roe deer in the most disturbed areas benefit to a large extent from current human land use practices, potentially allowing them to escape predation from Lynx. On the other hand, the situation is not so favourable for the predators who are restricted in competition refuges with medium to low prey densities. The consequence is that Lynx conservation will have to be achieved in a human modifed environment where the potential for a range of conflicts and high human-caused mortality will remain a constant threat.
Reidar Andersen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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what shapes eurasian Lynx distribution in human dominated landscapes selecting prey or avoiding people
Ecography, 2009Co-Authors: Mathieu Basille, John Odden, Reidar Andersen, John D. C. Linnell, Ivar Herfindal, Hugues Santinjanin, Kjell Arild Hogda, Jean-michel GaillardAbstract:In the multi-use landscape of southern Norway, the distribution of Lynx is likely to be determined both by the abundance of their favoured prey the roe deer and the risk associated with the presence of humans because most Lynx mortalities are caused by humans (recreational harvest, poaching, vehicle collisions). We described the distribution of the reproductive portion of the Lynx population based on snow-track observations of females with dependent kittens collected over 10 yr (19972006) in southern Norway. We used the ecological-niche factor analysis to examine how Lynx distribution was influenced by roe deer, human activity, habitat type, environmental productivity and elevation. Our first prediction that Lynx should be found in areas of relatively high roe deer abundance was supported. However, our second prediction that Lynx should avoid human activity was rejected, and Lynx instead occupied areas more disturbed in average than those available (with the exception of the most densely occupied areas). Lynx, however, avoided the most disturbed areas and our third prediction of a trade-off between abundance of prey and avoidance of human activity was supported. On the one hand, roe deer in the most disturbed areas benefit to a large extent from current human land use practices, potentially allowing them to escape predation from Lynx. On the other hand, the situation is not so favourable for the predators who are restricted in competition refuges with medium to low prey densities. The consequence is that Lynx conservation will have to be achieved in a human modifed environment where the potential for a range of conflicts and high human-caused mortality will remain a constant threat.
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vulnerability of domestic sheep to Lynx depredation in relation to roe deer density
Journal of Wildlife Management, 2008Co-Authors: John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, Ivar Herfindal, Reidar AndersenAbstract:The Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) causes large loss of free-ranging domestic sheep in Norway. We tested whether the observed higher kill rates by male Lynx than female Lynx were related to an association between the availability of the main natural prey, as measured by roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) habitat suitability, presence of sheep, and habitat selection of male and female Lynx. We found that Lynx selected areas with high roe deer suitability during summer and winter. Moreover, during summer, compared to male Lynx, females had greater selection for roe deer areas and a stronger avoidance for sheep grazing areas, which suggests that previously observed differences in kill rates between male and female Lynx can be attributed to sex-specific habitat use during summer. The connection between Lynx habitat use and roe deer also was reflected in a positive relationship between the roe deer suitability of a sheep grazing area and the total loss of lambs, which suggests that livestock, rather than being actively selected, are mainly killed by Lynx incidentally when encountered during other Lynx activities (e.g., searching for natural prey species). Therefore, any management practice that separates Lynx and sheep, such as concentrating livestock into small patches or less preferred habitats, may reduce depredation.
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risk taking by eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx in a human dominated landscape effects of sex and reproductive status
Journal of Zoology, 2006Co-Authors: Nils Bunnefeld, John Odden, John D. C. Linnell, Van Marijtje Duijn, Reidar AndersenAbstract:This study aimed to test how the sex and reproductive status of Eurasian Lynx influenced their use of ‘attractive sinks’ – habitats with high prey density and high mortality risks. Locations of 24 Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx were obtained by radiotelemetry in a mixed forest and agricultural habitat in south-eastern Norway. Roe deer, the major food source of Lynx in the study area, occurred at higher densities closer to areas of human activity and infrastructure. Proximity of Lynx locations to human activity and infrastructure was used as a risk index because the most common causes of death among Scandinavian Lynx were of anthropogenic origin. This study shows that distances from Lynx locations to human activity were significantly greater for females with newborn kittens than for males, but this decreased with kitten age. The data suggest that this response to human activity is influenced by the reproductive strategies of males and females, and might explain male-biased human-induced mortality in this study and in carnivores more generally.
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Does the spatiotemporal distribution of livestock influence forage patch selection in Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx
Wildlife Biology, 2006Co-Authors: Pål Fossland Moa, John D. C. Linnell, Tor Kvam, Ivar Herfindal, Kristian Overskaug, Reidar AndersenAbstract:Abstract Depredation on livestock is one of the main conflicts associated with Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx conservation in Norway. Our study investigates how Eurasian Lynx utilise high-density patches of free-ranging and unguarded livestock (domestic sheep Ovis aries and semi-domestic reindeer Rangifer tarandus) as compared to patches associated with low-density wild ungulate prey, roe deer Capreolus capreolus. We monitored 10 radio-collared Lynx in central Norway in two seasons that differed in ungulate distribution and density. According to the 'optimal foraging theory' an animal should preferentially utilise areas with more abundant food if not constrained by other factors; therefore we predicted that Lynx should select patches containing livestock. Contrary to our prediction the results indicate no selection for livestock patches in any season. In contrast, a clear preference was shown for roe deer patches in both seasons. Our findings support the hypothesis that Lynx depredation on livestock seems to be ...
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Reproductive biology of captive female Eurasian Lynx, Lynx Lynx
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2005Co-Authors: Hege Berg Henriksen, Reidar Andersen, John D. C. Linnell, A. J. Mark. Hewison, Jean-michel Gaillard, Morten Bronndal, Stefan Jonsson, John OddenAbstract:Studies on wild Eurasian Lynx ( Lynx Lynx ) have revealed variation in reproduction between areas, years and individuals. In order to explore potential causes for this variation other than food supply, we analysed data from captive Lynx, which provide conditions with minimal environmental variation as all were fed ad libitum. Data from 37 individual female Lynx were available from 20 zoos in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Switzerland and the Czech Republic. Data on 177 reproductive events (where a male was available to the female at mating time) are presented. Of these events, 85% resulted in litters being born. Average litter size was 1.95, with a variation from 1 to 4. The mean birth date was 26th May, and sex ratio was not significantly different from parity. The probability of reproduction was related to age, with fewer litters produced by the very young (2–3-year old), and no sign of a senescence effect. However, a clear effect of senescence on litter size was evident. The captive Lynx did not have higher reproductive rates than wild Lynx, indicating that either factors other than food supply are driving the variation in wild Lynx reproduction, or that a factor such as stress may be causing additional variation in the captive population.
Urs Breitenmoser - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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the first density estimation of an isolated eurasian Lynx population in southwest asia
Wildlife Biology, 2014Co-Authors: Batur Avgan, Marcel Guntert, Fridolin Zimmermann, Fehmi Arikan, Urs BreitenmoserAbstract:During November 2010–February 2011, we used camera traps to estimate the population density of Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx in Ciglikara Nature Reserve, Turkey, an isolated population in southwest Asia. Lynx density was calculated through spatial capture—recapture models. In a sampling eff ort of 1093 camera trap days, we identifi ed 15 independent individuals and estimated a density of 4.20 independent Lynx per 100 km2, an unreported high density for this species. Camera trap results also indicated that the Lynx is likely to be preying on brown hare Lepus europaeus, which accounted for 63% of the non-target species pictured. As lagomorph populations tend to fl uctuate, the high Lynx density recorded in Ciglikara may be temporary and may decline with prey fl uctuation. Therefore we recommend to survey other protected areas in southwestern Turkey where Lynx is known or assumed to exist, and continuously monitor the Lynx populations with reliable methods in order to understand the populations structure and dynam...
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Fear of the unknown: local knowledge and perceptions of the Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx in western Macedonia
Oryx, 2011Co-Authors: Nicolas Lescureux, John D. C. Linnell, Sabit Mustafa, Dime Melovski, Aleksandar Stojanov, Gjorge Ivanov, Vasko Avukatov, Manuela Von Arx, Urs BreitenmoserAbstract:The remnant population of Balkan Lynx Lynx Lynx martinoi is small, isolated and highly threatened. Since 2006 a conservation project has surveyed its status and promoted its recovery in Albania and Macedonia. Eurasian Lynx are often associated with conflicts of an economic or social nature, and their conservation requires a focus on the people sharing the landscape with the species. In this study we adopt methods and conceptual frameworks from anthropology to explore the local knowledge and perceptions of Lynx among rural hunters and livestock breeders in the western mountains of the Republic of Macedonia in south-east Europe. The main finding was that local people rarely saw or interacted with Lynx. As the level of interactions with this species is very low, the Lynx doesn’t appear to be a species associated with conflicts in Macedonia. There was also a general lack of both scientific and local knowledge, which has led to somewhat negative attitudes, mainly based on myths and rumours. Poaching of Lynx and their prey seem to be the main barriers to Lynx conservation.
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fear of the unknown local knowledge and perceptions of the eurasian Lynx
2011Co-Authors: Nicolas Lescureux, John D. C. Linnell, Sabit Mustafa, Dime Melovski, Aleksandar Stojanov, Vasko Avukatov, Manuela Von Arx, Gjorgje Ivanov, Urs BreitenmoserAbstract:The remnant population of Balkan Lynx Lynx Lynx martinoi is small, isolated and highly threatened. Since 2006 a conservation project has surveyed its status and promoted its recovery in Albania and Macedonia. Eurasian Lynx are often associated with conflicts of an economic or social nature, and their conservation requires a focus on the people sharing the landscape with the species. In this study we adopt methods and conceptual frameworks from anthropology to explore the local knowledge and perceptions of Lynx among rural hunters and livestock breeders in the western mountains of the Republic of Macedonia in south-east Europe. The main finding was that local people rarely saw or interacted with Lynx. As the level of interactions with this species is very low, the Lynx doesn?t appear to be a species associated with conflicts in Macedonia. There was also a general lack of both scientific and local knowledge, which has led to somewhat negative attitudes, mainly based on myths and rumours. Poaching of Lynx and their prey seem to be the main barriers to Lynx conservation.
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significance of Lynx Lynx Lynx predation for roe deer capreolus capreolus and chamois rupicapra rupicapra mortality in the swiss jura mountains
Wildlife Biology, 2002Co-Authors: Anja Molinarijobin, Paolo Molinari, Christine Breitenmoserwursten, Urs BreitenmoserAbstract:Prey class selection and kill rates by Lynx Lynx Lynx were studied in the Swiss Jura Mountains from March 1988 until May 1998 to evaluate the significance of Lynx predation for roe deer Capreolus capreolus and chamois Rupicapra rupicapra. We found clear differences in the kill rates and prey class selection between Lynx of different age, sex and breeding status. Male Lynx killed more chamois than female Lynx, and chamois was never found in kill series of subadult Lynx. Family groups had the highest kill rate. They killed an ungulate every 5.0 days, compared to an average of 6.2–6.6 days for single Lynx. During our 10-year study, the density of independent Lynx was rather stable, ranging within 0.94–1.01 individuals/100 km2. Based on the observed kill rates and the estimated Lynx population structure we calculated that Lynx killed 354 ± 13 roe deer and 87 ±13 chamois annually in the 710 km2 study area. The magnitude of Lynx predation on roe deer and chamois was primarily shaped by the Lynx population structure. A decline in the number of resident male Lynx reduced the number of chamois killed in the study area by ¼ of the previous number due to the difference in prey selection of male and female Lynx. There was a difference in the most frequently killed age and sex classes between roe deer and chamois: Lynx killed more male chamois (39%) than females or fawns, whereas in roe deer, does (38%) were most often killed. By altering adult survival, Lynx predation has a significant impact on prey population dynamics. Lynx killed a maximum of 9% of the roe deer and 11 % of the chamois spring population. Considering the differences in the recruitment potential of the two prey species, Lynx has a greater impact on chamois than on roe deer.
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assessing the suitability of central european landscapes for the reintroduction of eurasian Lynx
Journal of Applied Ecology, 2002Co-Authors: Stephanie Schadt, Urs Breitenmoser, Luděk Bufka, Felix Knauer, Jaroslav Cervený, Eloy Revilla, Thorsten Wiegand, Petra Kaczensky, Petr Koubek, Thomas HuberAbstract:Summary 1 After an absence of almost 100 years, the Eurasian Lynx Lynx Lynx is slowly recovering in Germany along the German–Czech border. Additionally, many reintroduction schemes have been discussed, albeit controversially, for various locations. We present a habitat suitability model for Lynx in Germany as a basis for further management and conservation efforts aimed at recolonization and population development. 2 We developed a statistical habitat model using logistic regression to quantify the factors that describe Lynx home ranges in a fragmented landscape. As no data were available for Lynx distribution in Germany, we used data from the Swiss Jura Mountains for model development and validated the habitat model with telemetry data from the Czech Republic and Slovenia. We derived several variables describing land use and fragmentation, also introducing variables that described the connectivity of forested and non-forested semi-natural areas on a larger scale than the map resolution. 3 We obtained a model with only one significant variable that described the connectivity of forested and non-forested semi-natural areas on a scale of about 80 km2. This result is biologically meaningful, reflecting the absence of intensive human land use on the scale of an average female Lynx home range. Model testing at a cut-off level of P > 0·5 correctly classified more than 80% of the Czech and Slovenian telemetry location data of resident Lynx. Application of the model to Germany showed that the most suitable habitats for Lynx were large-forested low mountain ranges and the large forests in east Germany. 4 Our approach illustrates how information on habitat fragmentation on a large scale can be linked with local data to the potential benefit of Lynx conservation in central Europe. Spatially explicit models like ours can form the basis for further assessing the population viability of species of conservation concern in suitable patches.
