Spatially explicit population modeling with habitat preferential movement of Glis glis (Edible dormouse)

Abstract

In this study, we present a population dispersal model for Glis glis, a rodent species with a strong preference for forest habitats. The model addresses dispersal processes by incorporating the ecological traits, including habitat preferences of the species, potential growth rate, home range, and carrying capacity. In this model, the landscape is divided into spatial units based on the home range, and the probability of individuals moving from one spatial unit to another is calculated using habitat preference and population density. The movement probability between different spatial locations is determined by the product of two factors: the escape probability based on the relative ratio of population density to carrying capacity and the relative difference in habitat preferences. Both probabilities are calculated using logistic functions. The results indicate that the combination of habitat preference and local density dependence plays a role in shaping the dispersal patterns of G. glis. This highlights the importance of considering habitat preference and density-dependent effects concurrently when forecasting population dispersal under field conditions.