The effects of scots pine scenery structures on the habitat preference of deer (Cervus elaphus) in eskisehir, Çatacik Forests

Within the scope of the thesis, the effects of silvicultural interventions on the habitat preference of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) in the yellow pine stands located in Arıkaya, Gümeledere and Değirmendere directorates in Çatacık Forests were investigated. The study aims to understand this relationship, which is important for forest management and sustainability of wildlife. This study for Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) reveals important habitat elements for this species in management plans and silvicultural plans. Camera trap technique, indirect counting techniques and interview technique were combined in the study. It was determined that the stands most frequently used by Red Deer in the field are mostly regeneration areas and first-growth stands where quality-oriented pruning is carried out. In order to feel safe in their natural habitat, red deer rested in forest clearings with dense forest on the edge. For feeding, it was understood that they prefer openings in the forest where grazing is dense. In the dense parts of the forest, i.e. a, ab, b ages and 3 closed parts, there were almost no deer. It was determined that they went to lower altitudes because they could not meet their nutritional needs as a result of snowfall and early drying of grasses in high areas during the winter period. In the studies conducted in the area, it was determined that red deer prefer August and September to get rid of the velvety and hairy sheath after the development of their antlers is completed and use the stands in the c and d ages. It has been observed that red deer prefer the bark of yellow pines between 6 and 12 diameters with young shoots in the forest to meet their nutritional and water needs at the beginning of the vegetation period, when the water walks to the sapling. It was also recorded that they eat aspen individuals with a thin diameter (6-8 cm).