University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) - Research portal
Gewählte Master / Diploma Thesis:
Jennifer Hatlauf
(2015):
Potenzieller Lebensraum des Goldschakals (Canis aureus) in Österreich
Status, Habitatfaktoren und Modellierungsansatz.
Master / Diploma Thesis - Institut für Wildbiologie und Jagdwirtschaft (IWJ),
BOKU-Universität für Bodenkultur,
pp 117.
UB BOKU
obvsg
FullText
- Abstract:
- In recent years, the golden jackal (Canis aureus) is gaining attention in Central Europe and increased evidence confirms its distribution, also towards Austria. As a result of a literature review this master thesis presents the summary of identified factors that may play a crucial role in habitat selection of the golden jackal. Despite its generalistic nature, close to its opportunistic choice of food and its adaptability, it is possible to discern trends in its habitat selection: The core habitat should therefore provide plentiful cover with varied structures (for example shrub vegetation or small woods near farm areas). In some european study areas extensive agriculture is positively linked with golden jackal presence. In these regions the jackals are also known to regularly use arable land. However, as agricultural practice is intensified, arable land is decreasingly used by the golden jackal. Furthermore, a lot of records prove the presence of golden jackals near perennial rivers and wetlands. On the other hand mountains with long, snowy winters might operate as barriers. Besides largely unexplored ecological contexts, these factors provide first indications for analysing golden jackal habitat. Based on simple overlapping of mentioned factors in QGIS, three modeling approaches for Austria were developed. A digital elevation model, waterbodies and CORINE land cover classes were used as database. Model one represents large areas of high habitat potential and points to the generalist nature of the golden jackal. Model two focuses on waterbodies, especially on rivers. With the complementary assessment of Ramsar wetlands, model three shows an even higher habitat potential of wetlands, than model two. The resulting habitat potential analysis is a first estimate of possible habitat for the golden jackal in Austria and could introduce a basis of further research.
- Beurteilende(r): Hackländer Klaus
- 1.Mitwirkender: Nopp-Mayr Ursula
- 2.Mitwirkender: Suppan Franz