The density, habitat use and social organisation of Dorcas Gazelles (Gazella dorcas) in Makhtesh Ramon, Negev Desert, Israel

Dorcas gazelles are found in a variety of habitats in Makhtesh Ramon. Social organization and foraging strategy differs between habitats. In areas where food is found in widely separated patches the gazelles are usually found at low density (0•22-0•41 ind. km-2), in small groups (< 4 INDIVIDUALS) AND ARE SELECTIVE FEEDERS. WHERE FOOD IS MORE ABUNDANT AND MUCH LESS CLUMPED IN DISTRIBUTION I.E. WIDE WASHES, GAZELLES ARE FOUND AT HIGHER DENSITIES (2 IND. KM-2), form small herds and have a complex social structure. In addition, in the latter habitats, they adopt an energy-maximizing foraging strategy and are less selective feeders. This paper shows how the differences in social structure and foraging strategy, found in this desert dwelling gazelle, are related to habitat quality.