Landscape-level habitat use and movement patterns of black bears in northeastern Arizona

Abstract

Abstract Little is known about black bear (Ursus americanus) populations in northeastern Arizona, an area characterized by rugged canyon topography and varied habitat composition. We placed global positioning system collars on four bears in this area to characterize second-order, landscape-level habitat use and examine habitat use and movement patterns of bears across this landscape. Data from four global positioning system collars revealed that bears use areas with higher tree canopy cover and terrain ruggedness, indicating that forest and escape cover are important factors driving black bear habitat use at the landscape level. Movement patterns revealed long, linear mean daily movements that follow the structure of the canyon topography. These long, linear movements also allow bears to take advantage of the mosaic of habitats and food resources available in this unique landscape.