DRIVERS OF ALTITUDINAL MIGRATION IN UNGULATE SPECIES

Abstract

Migration is extremely important both at the species and ecosystem level, however most research has focused on long-distance migrations. Without an understanding of short-distance migrations, like altitudinal migration, it can be hard to predict how species will be affected by rapid changes in the environment. Migratory ungulates are of special conservation importance as many are keystone species, having significant effects on ecosystem processes. In this study, I provide an overview of the drivers of altitudinal migration in ungulates and discuss its importance in ecology and conservation. Through a review of case studies of various ungulate species, I found four drivers of altitudinal migration: forage quality and quantity, predator avoidance, weather, and pest avoidance. While a pattern of forage quality and quantity emerged as one of the main mechanisms underlying altitudinal migration, most migrations were driven by a combination of the four factors. This knowledge helps better our understanding of altitudinal migration in ungulates, however more research is needed on how climate change, habitat fragmentation, and other environmental factors influence these species. I conclude by discussing future research directions for the study of altitudinal migration in ungulates and how these can be conducted.