Food is considered to be a primary influence on black bear (Ursus americanus) habitat selection, however relative abundance of foods among habitats is rarely quantified. We measured seasonal food abundance within 17 habitats in the central Adirondack Mountains of New York and used food abundance indices to predict habitat selection. Managed habitats provided the highest abundance of spring foods and summer fruit. Nonmanaged and uneven-aged managed hardwood habitats provided the highest amounts of beechnuts (Fagus grandifolia), a primary fall food. Analysis of habitat-use data from 5 adult female black bears monitored during 1989-91 suggested that habitat selection was greatly influenced by food abundance. Seasonal shifts in habitat use were related to changes in food resources. Bears used habitats with high food abundance more than expected and habitats with low food abundance less than expected (P = 0.05). Habitat diversity within a bear home range appears to be beneficial. Management implications are discussed.
- Volume 9
- Issue
- Pages 375-387
- Publication Date 1 January 1994
- DOI 10.2307/3872724
- File Size 593.89 KB
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