Large-scale spatial distribution of deer browsing damage to young tree plantations

The economic loss caused by herbivore browsing in forest plantations is a concerning problem many areas around the world. Information on spatial distribution of damage important for owners when selecting locations new plantations, because planting trees high pressure increases losses. Although it difficult to survey across large areas, sporadic sampling data are often collected foresters, governments, and researchers. Thus, this study, we applied generalized additive model (GAM) analysis reveal large-scale variation deer (Cervus nippon) damage. A map produced GAM that used years after (plantation age) location as independent factors showed few pressure. In addition, increased with increasing plantation age, stands aged 2+ more Areas estimated based generally coincided abundance, some exceptions. reflects relatively well will help avoid locating