A group of scientists led by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research studied the return of gray wolves to Germany over 23 years.
The researchers wanted to understand how these wolves recolonized their original habitat and predict their future distribution.
Let'see what they've discovered.
Studying the habitat
Scientists compared different methods of modeling using 20 years of distribution data and found that the wolves' habitat selection changed as the recolonization process advanced.
Early on, the wolves were pickier about their locations, but in later phases, they became less selective.
The study builds on previous habitat modeling from 2020, showing that gray wolves prefer areas with cover, away from people, settlements, and roads.
This information helps predict their expansion in Germany.
The scientists caution that the recolonization process is not stationary, and conditions change over time, making predictions challenging.
They recommend careful consideration when creating models for expanding species' habitats.
Why it's important
The research indicates that wolves are more sensitive to environmental variables during early phases, selecting prime locations, while later phases show colonization in lower-quality habitats.
The study refines earlier predictions and provides insights for managing wolf populations in Germany.
