Where the wild bears roam: Examining the habitat preferences and distribution of brown bears (Ursus arctos) in Armenia

Abstract

Abstract Understanding the habitat preferences and temporal activity of Armenian brown bears (Ursus arctos) in relation to human presence and the presence of other mammalian species in a biodiversity hotspot region is essential for their conservation. In this study we investigated how human disturbance affects the brown bear's temporal and spatial activity in the privately protected Caucasus Wildlife Refuge (CWR) of Armenia. In addition, we investigated spatio-temporal distribution of brown bear in relation to other wildlife present in the study area and looked at its habitat preferences. We placed 28 camera traps were placed in areas inside or adjacent to CWR for a period of 3 months in 2018. Presence/absence data were used to calculate the species richness and activity patterns and inserted in different occupancy models for the bears and the other mammals found in the area. Of the 14 medium and large-sized mammal species that could theoretically live in the area, we recorded 13, four of which are listed in the Red Book of Animals of Armenia (including the very rare Caucasian leopard). The results showed that brown bears are, to a certain extent habituated to human presence, since they were found near human settlements. Areas closer to water bodies were also found to be more likely occupied by brown bears. In addition, brown bear presence had a positive effect on the occupancy of potential prey species. The activity pattern analysis revealed that there is some diel temporal partitioning present between brown bear's and other mammalian species' activity.