Estimating population density of red foxes in different landscapes as a basis for wildlife management

Red foxes are highly adaptive. Their population density is linked to land cover composition and the degree of anthropogenic impact on a landscape. Central European mosaic landscapes represent excellent conditions for red foxes, thus supporting comparatively high population densities (e.g. as compared to extensive forest landscapes). Foxes are important generalist mesopredators that, in high abundances, may have negative effects on prey species of conservation concern (such as partridge, grouse or hare). However, their population density is often unknown, thus rendering it difficult, if not impossible to set effective management goals.

In the current research project, we strive to develop a cost-effective method to estimate red fox density in several landscape types of southern Germany. To this end, we use genetic approaches to develop and calibrate more cost-effective methods (e.g. camera trapping) for use in density estimation. In other modules, we focus on landscape parameters associated with red fox abundance in agricultural landscapes. We further study relatedness and dispersal patterns of red fox populations in relation to landscape composition.