Habitat and population modelling of roe deer using an interactive geographic information system

Management of German roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) populations is a challe nge for wildlife managers and foresters because population densities are di fficult to estimate in forests and forest regeneration can be negatively af fected when roe deer density is high. We describe a model to determine deer population densities compatible with forest management goals, and to asses s harvest rates necessary to maintain desired deer densities. A geographic information system (GIS) was used to model wildlife habitat and population dynamics over time. Our model interactively incorporates knowledge of field biologists and foresters via a graphical user interface (GUI). Calibration of the model with deer damage maps allowed us to evaluate density dependen ce of a roe deer population. Incorporation of local knowledge into temporal ly dynamic and spatial models increases understanding of population dynamic s and improves wildlife management. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All righ ts reserved.