Morphometric characteristics of free-ranging Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx in Switzerland and their suitability for age estimation ...

• Main Authors: Marti, Iris Andrea, Ryser, Marie Pierre
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Bertelsen 2018
• Subjects: 570 Life sciences; biology; 590 Animals Zoology; 630 Agriculture; Jura; Lynx; Lynx lynx lynx
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.7892/boris.129644; https://boris.unibe.ch/129644/

Knowledge of the age of individual animals is crucial to assess population dynamics, disease epidemiology and to successfully implement conservation strategies. Morphometric data reflect complex interactions of factors such as age and sex, and may also depend on genetics, population density, food availability, pathogen load and climate. The aims of this study were to assess the suitability of morphometric characteristics as an ageing tool for lynx during their growth period and to provide baseline data for the Eurasian lynx populations in Switzerland. Seventeen body measurements of 180 free-ranging Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) of known age, captured or found dead in Switzerland between 1981-2017 were compiled by sex and age class (juveniles, subadults, adults) and tested for significant differences between males and females, age classes, and populations (Jura Mountains, Alps). Classification tree analysis (CART) was performed to create an ageing tool based on physical characteristics. Generalised linear models ...