Circadian Activity Patterns of Canada Lynx in Western Montana |
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Authors: | JAY A KOLBE JOHN R SQUIRES |
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Institution: | United States Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Box 8089, Missoula, MT 59807, USA. |
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Abstract: | Abstract: We recorded activity data for 6 male and 5 female lynx in winter and 3 male and 6 female lynx during summer in western Montana, USA, using motion-sensitive radiocollars. Lynx diel activity appeared to vary by sex, season, and reproductive status. During summer, male lynx exhibited a crepuscular activity pattern, whereas females with kittens remained active throughout the photoperiod. During winter, lynx of both sexes were most active during the afternoon and early evening. Although we observed no evidence that predation risk drove lynx activity patterns, such patterns may be a function of kitten-rearing activity, thermoregulatory strategies, and foraging behavior. |
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Keywords: | activity Canada lynx circadian activity Lepus americanus Lynx canadensis snowshoe hares |
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