EMPIRICAL-MODELS FOR THE SPATIAL-DISTRIBUTION OF WILDLIFE

1. Empirical models for spatial distribution of wildlife, given data f rom a complete census or a random sample of sites, are reviewed briefl y. 2. The use of covariates, recorded at different resolutions, for mo delling spatial distribution is explored. 3. Presentation of model pre dictions in map form is discussed. 4. A framework of models for change in spatial distribution, given data from successive surveys, is devel oped. 5. Methods for quantifying and presenting precision and bias are described. 6. The methods are illustrated for two bird species (green woodpecker Picus viridis and redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus) and fo r red deer Cervus elaphus, using data from north-east Scotland.