Density-habitat relationships of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Finland

In heterogeneous landscapes, resource selection constitutes a crucial link between landscape and population-level processes such as density. We conducted a non-invasive genetic study of white-tailed deer in southern Finland in 2016 and 2017 using fecal DNA samples to understand factors influencing white-tailed deer density and space use in late summer prior to the hunting season. We estimated deer density as a function of landcover types using a spatial capture-recapture (SCR) model with individual identities established using microsatellite markers. The study revealed second-order habitat selection with highest deer densities in fields and mixed forest, and third-order habitat selection (detection probability) for transitional woodlands (clear-cuts) and closeness to fields. Including landscape heterogeneity improved model fit and increased inferred total density compared with models assuming a homogenous landscape. Our findings underline the importance of including habitat covariates when estimating density and exemplifies that resource selection can be studied using non-invasive methods.Funding provided by: Doctoral Programme in Biology, Geography and Geology*Crossref Funder Registry ID: Award Number: Funding provided by: Jenny ja Antti Wihurin RahastoCrossref Funder Registry ID: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004022Award Number: Funding provided by: Ministry of the Agriculture and Forestry, Finland*Crossref Funder Registry ID: Award Number: Funding provided by: Societas ro Fauna et Flora Fennicaå*Crossref Funder Registry ID: Award Number: Funding provided by: Suomen Riistanhoito-säätiö*Crossref Funder Registry ID: Award Number