Abstract
The spatial and temporal aspects of the habitat suitability of the European souslik (Spermophilus citellus L.) in an area of Sredna Gora Mountain (Bulgaria) were studied. We used Landsat satellite imagery data to model changes in the habitat suitability of the species from 1985 to 2018. The obtained results demonstrate that the habitat suitability of the European souslik increased during the studied period, presumably due to raised temperatures and the accompanying drought during summertime, as well as the human-caused modifications in pasture livestock breeding. Based on statistical modelling, the employed procedure applies to long-term monitoring and assessment of the role of land cover change because of climate change and human activity on the habitat suitability of the European souslik. This approach can be useful for conservation planning.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
