Linking alternative reproductive tactics and habitat selection in Northern chamois

In polygynous ungulates, males may achieve fertilization through the use of alternative reproductive tactics (ARTs), discrete phenotypic variations evolved to maximize fitness. ARTs are often associated with different male spatial strategies during rut, from territoriality female-following. Although variation in space patterns rutting ungulates is known be largely affected by distribution females, information on year-round habitat selection types scant. Here, we investigate seasonal choice a large mammal (territoriality and nonterritoriality), Northern chamois Rupicapra rupicapra. Global Positioning System (GPS) data 28 adult were collected between February 2010 December 2013 Gran Paradiso National Park (Italy) used fit resource functions explore ART-specific key topographic features, such as elevation, aspect, slope, vegetation phenology expressed NDVI values. Territorial nonterritorial profoundly differed their not only season. Compared males, territorial lower elevations summer autumn, preferred southern slopes spring summer, steeper areas but winter. We found no difference values adopting ARTs. Our results suggest that tend occupy warmer, lower-food-quality habitats late whereas free follow exploit more favorable temperatures. Different reflect trade-offs optimization energy balances throughout year increase mating opportunities rut tactics.