Habitat use by Rangifer tarandus fennicus under intensive forestry conditions in the Republic of Karelia, Northwest Russia

The negative anthropogenic impact on the Rangifer tarandus fennicus population in the Republic of Karelia (Russia) is primarily driven by direct human persecution and habitat loss resulting from forestry activities. Understanding the species’ habitat selection preferences in transformed landscapes is essential for developing effective conservation strategies. This study examines the habitat use patterns of R. t. fennicus in an area subjected to prolonged intensive logging. We analysed movement data from three female R. t. fennicus equipped with GPS-collars. The collared individuals moved within the Loukhsky district and Kemsky district of the Republic of Karelia in 2015–2018. The analysis revealed that more than one-third of the recorded positions of R. t. fennicus during the entire observation period were located in intact forests, although these habitats comprise a relatively small proportion of the study area. A multifactorial analysis of variance demonstrated that the habitat use was primarily influenced by habitat type, followed by seasonal variation and individual space-use preferences of the collared females. The representation of various habitat types within seasonal home ranges (kernel density estimation) varied significantly throughout the year. This proportion was the highest in winter in forests unlogged for over 40 years (more than 41.1%). The proportion of intact forests increased during summer and the rut period, reaching 58.3% and 48.4%, respectively. Analysis of habitats within seasonal home ranges confirmed that habitat type played a decisive role in selection. Habitat selectivity analysis using Jacobs’ index revealed a strong preference for intact forests during summer and the rutting period. Forests, unlogged for over 40 years, as well as clear-cuts aged 16–40 and 6–15 years, were used in proportion to their availability in winter but were avoided in summer. Seasonal differences in shoreline utilisation with Jacobs’ index calculations indicate a preference for areas within 500 m from the water edge during summer. To ensure the conservation of R. t. fennicus, it is essential to preserve intact forests in key habitat areas and prevent their economic exploitation. This can be accomplished by designating these areas as Protected Areas or specially managed forest zones. Establishing a network of Protected Areas within core habitats and along seasonal migration corridors for R. t. fennicus will enhance population connectivity and contribute to its long-term viability across its range.