Come back to stay: landscape connectivity analysis for the Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra) in the western Alps

Abstract Assessing landscape connectivity allows defining the degree to which facilitates or impedes movement of a species between resource patches. In this phase climate change and biodiversity crisis, maintaining by restoring protecting connecting areas corridors is key strategy ensure survival many species. The Eurasian otter ( Lutra lutra ) freshwater top predator that slowly recovering after dramatic decline occurred in central southern Europe last century. To assess chances recolonization western Alps, we analyzed environmental applying electrical circuit theory an expert-based resistance surface using Circuitscape software. study area included southeastern France, northwestern Italy, Switzerland. We produced cumulative current flow map gap analysis was also conducted highlight “conservation gaps” for optimal corridors. results revealed orography main factor influencing quantity quality pathways Alpine landscapes. As were concentrated on valley bottoms, human pressure could severely diminish animal movement. Despite this, some heavily populated showed high values. Some important did not fall within protected areas, potentially hindering dispersal highlighting need expand system arc. Recolonization territories otters can therefore only occur if suitability combine animals' over time.