Creating a model of habitat suitability using vegetation and ruggedness for Ovis ammon and Capra sibirica (Artiodactyla: Bovidae) in Mongolia

Abstract

Spatially-explicit wildlife habitat models, such as a Habitat Suitability Index Model (HSIM), are increasingly used to understand optimal environmental conditions needed for a species survival and viability. HSIM compares different environmental variables, including vegetation, slope, and aspect to determine optimal habitat for a species. HSIM can compare a species’ use of resources with availability and determine risks for a species viability. Furthermore, decision makers can use HSIM to make decisions regarding resources needed for species of concern and development of protected areas. We used a geographic information system to create a HSIM for Argali sheep (Ovis ammon) and Siberian ibex (Capra siberica), species of conservation concern in Mongolia. We used vegetation and ruggedness layers and compared argali and ibex use with habitat availability. Argali and ibex presence correlated with three habitat classes: dense rock, low-density shrub, and short grass/forb. We found no significance in correlation for ruggedness.