Data and code for Habitat selection in a recovering bobcat (Lynx rufus) population

<p>Understanding habitat selection of top predators is critical to predict their impacts on ecological communities and interactions with humans, particularly in recovering populations. We analyzed habitat selection in a recovering population of bobcats (<em>Lynx rufus</em>) in south-central Indiana using a Random Forest model. We trapped and tracked 27 bobcats (14 males, 13 females) from December 1998 to April 2006 using very high frequency (VHF) radio telemetry methods and estimated locations from triangulations. Our Random Forest model highlighted complex non-linear patterns and revealed that most shifts in habitat use occurred within 1 km of the edge of each habitat type. These results largely supported previous studies in the Midwest and across North America but also produced refinements of bobcat habitat use in our system, particularly at habitat boundaries. Refined models of habitat selection by carnivores enable improved prediction of the most suitable habitat for recovering populations and provides useful information for conservation. We provide data and code to run habitat selection by bobcats in south-central Indiana using Random Forest, as an example for applications to other animals and ecosystems. </p>