The influence of vegetation characteristics on roe deer habitat selection in Bozin and Markheil Protected Area

In order to reach sound herbivore management, understanding of vegetation associations with herbivores, specifically where the populations of the species of interest are depleting is crucial. Hence, in this investigation, effort was made aiming to determine the current habitat status of roe deer species (Capreolus capreolus) for conservation purposes. During 2012 and 2013 in three distinct seasons, presence and absence of roe deer sign data were recorded on random transect lines. Moreover, vegetation parameters including: density, canopy cover of oak trees, Importance Value, diameter breast height (DBH) of the oak trees, and the edible plant species in Bozin and Markheil Protected Area were measured. Vegetation analysis was carried out using T-Square and plot sampling techniques. Data was modeled by performing Generalized Linear Model (GLM) approach and the best candidate model was chosen based on the least value of the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). Additionally, a chi-square equivalent assumption was tested to compare the differentiation rates of roe deer presence between the seasons. From the generated models, the presence of roe deer demonstrated a strong correlation with canopy cover and DBH, but no significant correlation appeared for the other factors. At the same time, 27 edible plant species were identified using pellet group analysis. Finally, the density of oak trees and the composition of understory scrubs may potentially influence the population dynamic of roe deer in the area. Further the community based research survey and conservation measures need to be accomplished for enhancing the viability of this overlooked species.