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Microhabitat and forest structure characteristics of cave dens in Velebit Nature Park

The aim of this research was to establish habitat characteristics of cave dens in Velebit Nature Park. In total, 63 dens were found out of which 89% were cave dens and 11% other den types (nest dens 6%, stump dens 3%, trunk dens 2%). A coordinate for each den was determined by GPS device. On the basis of each den’s coordinate, together with geological and pedological maps, parent material, geological age and soil type of dens were determined. In relation to den’s altitude, climatic category according to Köppen was defined. In the 25-meter radius around each den, habitat and structural characteristics were measured: rockiness, developmental stage of forest, canopy density, tallest tree height, forest site index, tree basal area, and tree species composition. In relation to parent material, the largest percentage of caves was on the limestone and dolomite parent material, and the smallest percentage on schist and sandstone parent material. In relation to geological age, the largest percentage of cave dens was found on the paleogen and neogen age foundation. 43% of cave dens were on calcocambisol. 61% of cave dens were in climatic category of moderate, rainy climate at 800 to 1000 m altitude. The main tree species around cave dens is silver fir. The largest percentage of cave dens were situated in partial canopy density of the third forest site index with tree heights between 16 and 20 m. Rockiness of terrain was significantly higher and tree height was significantly lower in the cave dens in comparison to other den types. Coniferous species composition was dominant in the cave dens. Most cave dens (71%) were in high forest stands with tree basal area of 21 to 30 m2/ha, and the least in degraded stands (10 %).

cave dens, microhabitat, forest structure, Velebit Nature Park

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