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Variation in habitat selection by male Strix nebulosa (Great Gray Owls) across the diel cycle, data archive

Gura, Katherine B.1

Published Jul 08, 2024; Updated Sep 25, 2024 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.1g1jwsv50

Data files

Jul 08, 2024 version files 11.02 MB
Sep 18, 2024 version files 12.99 MB

Abstract

We used GPS tracking and remotely-sensed environmental data to evaluate whether breeding-season habitat selection by adult male Strix nebulosa (Great Gray Owls) (n = 19) varied across diel periods (dawn, day, dusk, and night). We focused specifically on male owls because their breeding habitat selection remains largely unknown despite the critical role they play as food provisioners. To address knowledge gaps related to nocturnal habitat, we also evaluated finer-scale, microhabitat selection by male owls at night. Generally, S. nebulosa are associated with mature forests for nesting and meadows for foraging. Yet, in our study, owls avoided herbaceous wetlands during the day but strongly selected them at dawn, dusk, and at night, indicating time-dependent habitat selection. Moreover, owls avoided dry meadows at all times of the day, suggesting that wet rather than xeric meadows are important for foraging. Owls also preferred nighttime microhabitats that facilitated foraging, such as those with presence of primary prey and open understories dominated by graminoids and forbs. During the daytime, owls preferred higher canopy cover and areas with increased soil moisture, which likely provided suitable roosting habitat. Across taxa, understanding of habitat preferences across sexes, behaviors, activity periods, temporal windows, and other contexts can improve the identification and conservation of critical habitat for wildlife. Our work contributes to understanding of how animals balance resources related to food provisioning versus safety, both of which are critical for individual fitness and population persistence.