Dwelling in production landscapes: a case study of mesocarnivore movement ecology in exotic plantations

Le résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Human-driven habitat modification has transformed nearly all terrestrial ecosystems, reshaping the spatial and energetic dynamics that underpin wildlife survival. Production forestry, including large-scale Eucalyptus plantations, represents one of the most extensive forms of forest alteration, reducing habitat complexity and connectivity. This structural simplification may constrain animal mobility, elevate energetic costs, and alter habitat selection, particularly for carnivores, given their large spatial needs and reliance on prey. Here, we present the first case study of mesocarnivore movement behavior and energy expenditure within Eucalyptus plantations. By using high resolution GPS and 3D accelerometer, we found that individuals from forest-dwelling species (stone marten, Martes foina and common genet, Genetta genetta) consistently selected native vegetation and structurally complex habitats (e.g., low vegetation and forests), spending more time and less energy in it, while avoiding simplified plantation stands and areas near forest certification-designated conservation zones. Individuals from the generalist species (red fox, Vulpes vulpes ) displayed higher behavioral flexibility, occasionally using plantations with higher energy costs, but still favoring native patches and areas near conservation zones for resting and foraging. These preliminary findings on few individuals highlight that remnant native vegetation is critical for mesocarnivores, providing refuge and efficient movement corridors within production landscapes, while conservation zones embedded in plantations enhance habitat suitability mainly for individuals of the generalist species. Our results indicate the importance of explicitly including animal movement as a core metric where promoting landscape permeability is a key conservation goal. Effective management should therefore combine the retention and restoration of native patches with the strategic placement and enhancement of conservation zones to meet species-specific habitat needs, thus supporting both wildlife persistence and sustainable forestry.

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