Time-varying predatory behavior is primary predictor of fine-scale movement of wildland-urban cougars.
Frances E BudermanMevin B HootenMathew W AlldredgeEphraim M HanksJacob S IvanPublished in: Movement ecology (2018)
The time-varying framework allowed us to detect temporal variability that would be masked in a generalized linear model, and improved the within-sample predictive ability of the model. The high degree of individual variation suggests that, if agencies want to minimize human-wildlife conflict management options should be varied and flexible. However, due to the effect of recursive behavior on cougar movement, likely related to the location and timing of potential kill-sites, kill-site identification tools may be useful for identifying areas of potential conflict.