Habitat suitability modelling for red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) in South-central Slovenia with classification trees

We study and assess the potential habitats of a population of red deer in South-central Slovenia. Using existing data on the deer population spatial distribution and size, as well as data on the landscape and ecological properties (GIS) of the area inhabited by this population, we develop a habitat suitability model by automated data analysis using machine learning of classification trees. We assume that the recorded observations of deer approximate the actual spatial distribution of the deer population reasonably well. The habitat suitability models for individual animals have the form of classification trees. The induced trees are interpreted by domain experts and a generic model is proposed. The generic habitat suitability models can help determine potential unoccupied habitats for the red deer population and develop guidelines for managing the development of the red deer population and its influence on the environment. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.