Landscape Structure of Woody Cover Patches for Endangered Ocelots in Southern Texas

Few ecological studies have explored landscape suitability using the gradient concept of structure for wildlife species. Identification conditions influencing ecology endangered species allows development more robust recovery strategies. Our objectives were to (i) identify range metrics (i.e., mean patch area; and edge densities; percent land cover; shape, aggregation, largest indices) associated with woody vegetation used by ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), (ii) quantify potential distribution suitable cover across southern Texas. We theory slack combined GPS telemetry data from 10 ocelots. Spatial high is comprised large patches, low shape-index values (1.07–2.25), (27.21–72.50 patches/100 ha), (0–191.50 m/ha) densities. High occurs in 45.27% study demonstrates a new approach measuring The identified that there are patches containing spatial than previously suspected, which will aid evaluating road planning efforts.