Canid’s cradle: multigrain den site selection by wolves on the Scandinavian Peninsula

Carnivores can have different habitat requirements and vary in their sensitivity to disturbance across stages of their life cycle, particularly during reproduction. Despite being highly adaptable and able to tolerate substantial human disturbance, wolves ( Canis lupus ), may rely on specific habitat characteristics when selecting den sites to reduce human-related risks and enhance pup survival. Using multi-grain resource selection functions (MRSFs), we evaluated resource selection at wolf den sites. Drawing on 44 field-verified dens identified via clustered GPS data from 2005 to 2023, we evaluated how environmental, topographic, and anthropogenic factors influence den site selection in the south-central part of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Wolves selected den sites in forests and rough terrain, and far from gravel and paved roads, likely to improve concealment and reduce risk associated with human presence and activity. The results suggest that wolves make decisions at multiple grains, selecting most covariates at relatively small grain sizes. Our findings provide key insights for wolf conservation and management in Scandinavia and elsewhere, addressing targeted preventive measures where conflicts with human activities are more likely during the pup rearing period. They are also practical in guiding summer monitoring efforts in areas with a high likelihood of wolf den site selection, and in informing more focused anti-poaching surveillance and enforcement.