Too hot to handle: summer space use shift in a cold-adapted ungulate at the edge of its range

• DOI: 10.1007/s10980-020-01018-4
• Publication Date: 2020-04-29T07:03:42Z
• Authors: Tomasz Borowik; Mirosław Ratkiewicz; Weronika Maślanko; Norbert Duda; Rafał Kowalczyk
• Keywords: Ungulate

Abstract Context Global warming has been exerting an increasing stress on mammal populations occurring at the bioclimatic edges of their ranges. Moose, as heat-sensitive ungulates, are expected to be increasingly susceptible thermal stress; however, behavioral responses animals could mitigate unfavorable weather conditions. Objectives We aimed evaluate temperature-mediated changes in moose southwestern edge species’ range Europe. predicted that temperature summer would modify daily activity pattern animal and fine-scale utilization cover. Methods analysed data from 36 moose, who were fitted with GPS collars two study sites located Eastern Poland. The distance between locations served for assessing activity. applied additive modelling test effect patterns landscape use moose. Results when exposed temperatures exceeding comfort, increased during cooler twilight hours. On hottest days, more likely tree canopy cover, especially midday Finally, risk stress, part day, utilized denser forest stands which have provided extra protection against solar radiation. Conclusions Our observations suggested under a scenario further climate warming, periphery will forced make alterations. However, it is not clear whether they able compensate negative effects on-going change.