Elucidating the significance of spatial memory on movement decisions by African savannah elephants using state-space models.

ABSTRACT: Spatial memory facilitates resource acquisition where resources are patchy, but how it influences movement behaviour of wide-ranging species remains to be resolved. We examined African elephant spatial memory reflected in movement decisions regarding access to perennial waterholes. State-space models of movement data revealed a rapid, highly directional movement behaviour almost exclusively associated with visiting perennial water. Behavioural change point (BCP) analyses demonstrated that these goal-oriented movements were initiated on average 4.59 km, and up to 49.97 km, from the visited waterhole, with the closest waterhole accessed 90% of the time. Distances of decision points increased when switching to different waterholes, during the dry season, or for female groups relative to males

SUBMITTER: Polansky L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4389615 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature