Study of potential habitats of the brown bear (Ursus arctos) in ‎Arsbaran Biosphere Reserve

Brown bear (Ursus arctos) is classified as a Least Concern (LC) species of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but its distribution have decreased as the largest carnivore in the country during last decades, and hence it is important to protect its habitats. In this research, the habitat suitability of brown bear in Arasbaran biosphere reserve, as one of the most important habitats of this species in the northwest of Iran, was considered. For the habitat suitability modeling of this species, Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA) method and ENFA software were used. Results showed that 23.6% (20245ha) of Arasbaran biosphere reserve were suitable for species. The suitable habitats were recognized to be in areas with elevation range of 900 to 2400 meters above sea level, 30 to 70 percent of slope. In addition, the variables of forest with 75-100% canopy cover, semi-humid climate, elevation range of 1500-2000 meters above sea level, Northern hillsides, 45 to 70 percent of slope, humid climate, permanent rivers, forest with 50-75% canopy cover have the most effect on the selection of the species habitat. The suitable habitats for brown bear are generally distributed in the Oskuloo, Makidi, Hejrandost, Aliabad, Naposhteh, Balasang, Ilankesh, Abasabad and Khril. Prevention of development (Tourism) in the suitable habitats of brown bear, and, determination of corridors and movement routs of the species outside of the Arasbaran Biosphere Reserve in future studies were suggested in the route of this research.