Distribution modelling of the garden dormouse Eliomys quercinus (Linnaeus, 1766) with novel climate change indicators

Abstract The garden dormouse Eliomys quercinus has been declining in both abundance and range since the mid-twentieth century. eastern edge of its contracted from Ural Mountains to Germany. Habitat loss fragmentation most supported theory explain observed decline. Climate change implicated declines other terrestrial mammals, but not investigated for E. . To better understand factors influencing distribution this species map habitat suitability across Europe, we created a Maxent model. Among main environmental variables used modelling, two novel climate indicator were produced indicate degree between early twentieth century present. Areas high mapped, variable importance estimated using jackknife tests contribution metrics. indicators outperformed many conventional variables, which could that is factor behind current We also analysed land use types where presence points located whether they areas “high nature value farmland”. Over 30% all spatially filtered corresponded farmland areas. Our results role changing (particularly temperature) decline , practices conserving species. Field studies improved monitoring are recommended confirm possible findings.