Habitat suitability modeling for Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii) in Naybandan Wildlife Refuge

Chinkara (Gazella bennettii shikarii) is the smallest antelope in Iran. The only remaining habitats of this species in Iran are often decomposed. This species is adapted to arid habitats and Naybandan Wildlife Refuge is known as the most integrated habitat of this species in the country. For habitat suitability modelling of Chinkara in the refuge, we visited the area to provide present layer of the species, initially. Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA) method and ENFA software for habitat suitability modeling of this species were used. Information layers as variables affecting on this species include the slope, aspect, elevation, forms of topography, vegetation, water resources and human development variables was determined. Based on habitat suitability map, Chinkara preferred elevation range of 570 to 1800 meters above sea level and 5 to 30 percent of slop. Furthermore variables of north hillsides, water sources, streams and foothills, uninhabited villages and vegetation type areas of Haloxylon, Seidlitzia and Artemisia are also important factors in the presence of this species. Results showed that 33.58 percent of this area were suitable for Chinkara. Prevention of development (roads and mines) in the suitable habitats of Chinkara, and, determination of corridors and movement routs of the species outside of the Naybandan in future studies were suggested in the route of this research.