Differential movement pattern of Père David's deer associated with the temporal rhythm using GPS collar fix

Abstract

The movement patterns of animals are changing in response to environmental change with many species forming resident populations in specific areas. The Père David's deer (Elaphurus davidianus), which has been listed as an endangered mammal species, and the reintroduced population exists as a semi-captive population as well as a population inside an enclosure in east coastal wetlands of China. The maximum monthly distance moved was (203.36 ± 20.57, 149.93 ± 74.68 Km) in December of female deer; and in June of male deer, respectively. Females (155.72 ± 29.19 Km) appeared to move further than males (113.69 ± 40.96 Km). The rhythmic reproduction of male deer affect its monthly movement, especially in June, and the timid and shy characteristics of female deer determined them move further in whole seasons. The seasonally vegetation coverage change and water level line were the main factors drive them to move towards difference habitat. Keywords: Père David's deer, Movement ecology, Space utilization, GPS collar, Temporal rhythm