Dispersal Distance, Home-Range Size and Population Density in the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes): A Quantitative Analysis

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Abstract
(1) Fox capture-mark-recapture studies were reviewed to obtain standardized information on straight-line recovery and dispersal distances. The term recovery distance is used to include all recoveries, but dispersal distance only includes those animals known to have dispersed from their natal range. Data on fox home-range size and population density from these studies are also summarized. (2) The relationship between fox home-range size and population density was investigated, and a regression equation with an inverse relationship was considered to be the most realistic to explain the observed data. (3) Distance moved was correlated positively with home-range size and negatively with population density. Regression equations relating the mean distance mode by male and female foxes to home-range size are presented. (4) The distributions of observed fox recovery distances were examined and modelled. Most distributions of observed fox recovery distances were examined and modelled. Most distributions showed that the majority of foxes do not move far, but that a small proportion move much greater distances. (5) The relationships between fox population density, home-range size and dispersal and recovery distance are discussed, as is the application of the quantitative relationships to spatial models of fox and fox/rabies population dynamics.

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