Habitat patches providing south–north connectivity are under-protected in a fragmented landscape

• DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.1010
• Publication Date: 2021-08-25T07:06:23Z
• Authors: Thomas J. P. Travers; Jamie Alison; Sarah D. Taylor; Humphrey Q. P. Crick; Jenny A. Hodgson
• Keywords: Landscape connectivity; Wildlife corridor

As species’ ranges shift to track climate change, conservationists increasingly recognize the need consider connectivity when designating protected areas (PAs). In fragmented landscapes, some habitat patches are more important than others in maintaining connectivity, and methods needed for their identification. Here, using Condatis methodology, we model range expansion through an adaptation of circuit theory. Specifically, map ‘flow’ 16 conservation priority networks England, quantifying how contribute functional South–North connectivity. We also explore much additional could be via a connectivity-led protection procedure. find high-flow often left out existing PAs; across 12 networks, falls short area by 13.6% on average. conclude that legacy past decisions has habitat-specialist species vulnerable change. This situation may mirrored many countries which have similar principles. Addressing this requires specific planning tools can account directions shift. Our reserve selection procedure efficiently identifies PAs prioritize protecting median 40.9% these landscapes with just 10% increase area.