Habitat selection by alpine rock ptarmigan Lagopus muta helvetica in the Italian alps

We analysed space use strategies in two populations of Alpine Rock Ptar-migan Lagopus muta helvetica considering three topographical variables (elevation, slope and aspect) to investigate whether populations living at range margins can adapt to suboptimal conditions by exploiting the available habitat differently. Selection for topographic features differed between populations, suggesting that Rock Ptarmigan adapt their habitat selection to local availability. Therefore, we suggest considering a wide range of habitat parameters when planning conservation strategies for species living at the margins of their range.