Widespread habitat for Europe's largest herbivores, but poor connectivity limits recolonization

• DOI: 10.1111/ddi.13671
• Publication Date: 2023-01-12T07:50:18Z
• Authors: Hendrik Bluhm; Tom A. Diserens; Thomas Engleder; Kaja Heising; Marco Heurich; Tomáš Janík; Miloslav Jirků; Daniel Klich; Hannes J. König; Rafał Kowalczyk; Dries Kuijper; Weronika Maślanko; Frank‐Uwe Michler; Wiebke Neumann; Julian Oeser; Wanda Olech; Kajetan Perzanowski; Mirosław Ratkiewicz; Dušan Romportl; Martin Šálek; Tobias Kuemmerle
• Keywords: Mammal

Abstract Aim Several large‐mammal species in Europe have recovered and recolonized parts of their historical ranges. Knowing where suitable habitat exists, thus range expansions are possible, is important for proactively promoting coexistence between people large mammals shared landscapes. We aimed to assess the opportunities limitations Europe's two largest herbivores, European bison ( Bison bonasus ) moose Alces alces ). Location Central Europe. Methods used occurrence datasets from multiple populations distribution models map environmentally habitats across Europe, human pressure inside potential habitat. then circuit theory modeling identify recolonization corridors. Results found widespread both (>120,000 km 2 (>244,000 ), suggesting substantial expansions. However, much was associated with high (37% 43% moose, respectively), particularly west identified a strong east–west gradient decreasing connectivity, major barriers likely limiting natural many areas. Main conclusions restoring herbivores functional roles we also highlight considerable challenges conservation planning wildlife management, including areas leads human–wildlife conflict movement prevent expansion. Conservation measures broad‐scale connectivity needed order allow recolonize Finally, our analyses maps indicate but isolated patches that unlikely be colonized candidate locations reintroductions establish reservoir populations. More generally, work emphasizes transboundary cooperation ecological roles, foster