Landscapes connectivity in river Bregalnica watershed - determining the relative importance of rural landscapes for European wildcat conservation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59194/MJEE25272121jKeywords:
corridor, wildlife conservation, landscape managementAbstract
Maintaining and enhancing habitat connectivity in semi-natural and cultural landscapes is essential for preserving biodiversity, ecosystem health, and the well-being of both wildlife and human communities. In this regard, this study aims to assess landscape connectivity across different landscape types in Bregalnica watershed, with a specific focus on evaluating the role of rural landscapes as corridors for the European wildcat (Felis silvestris Schreber, 1777).
Connectivity analysis was conducted in Graphab 2.8, using 50x50m rasterised habitat map as a baseline. A minimum patch size of 300 ha was applied to define habitat nodes, and a 1,500 m dispersal threshold was used for species movement through unsuitable habitats.
Forest landscapes within the Bregalnica watershed were found to have the highest cumulative core patch value. Rural landscapes—while secondary to forests—also provide habitat for the wildcat and play a significant role in supporting habitat connectivity for the species. Three rural landscape types support European wildcat populations by providing suitable habitat and enabling connectivity between populations: Hilly rural landscape, Mountain rural landscape and Osogovo mountain rural landscape. Among these, the latter is the most critical for core area presence and connectivity. The Hilly rural landscape is the most valuable in terms of corridor presence.
The outputs of this study contribute towards wildlife conservation efforts and the integrated management of ecological networks in the Bregalnica watershed region.
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