Northern Bobwhite roost site selection influences survival during the non-breeding season

A key assumption of the ideal free distribution theory is that animals select resources based on environmental cues that maximize fitness, thereby facilitating natural selection within a population. Habitat management and conservation practices are commonly based on results of resource selection models with the assumption that selection and fitness are correlated. This is concerning given that this critical assumption has been demonstrably violated in certain systems, where animals select resources that ultimately reduce vital rates. We studied how nocturnal habitat selection of 6 common landcover types influenced survival rates of Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) on public lands in southern Indiana, USA during the non-breeding season. We found that selection for woody cover had a positive effect on survival rates. Our results suggest that ideal free distribution is facilitated in this system by minimizing predation risk through the use of woody roosting cover. To develop more comprehensive knowledge on habitat selection for species, studies should examine the effects that selection has on one or more vital rates.