1.6. Thesis objectives

The aim of this study was to examine landscape responses of the Siberian flying squirrel in northern Finland where the species occurs at the north-westernmost limit of its global range. In order to characterise landscape patterns quantitatively three functionally different habitat types were in focus: first, mature spruce dominated habitat patches preferred by the species, second, areas that act as connecting habitat for the species, and, third, unsuitable habitats, such as sapling stands and treeless open areas. Spatial structure of these landscape elements was investigated empirically in Kainuu and Koillismaa regions to detect which landscape patterns are associated with the occurrence of the species and to find relative priorities of landscape characteristics (I, II, III). Moreover, in these studies, the spatial resolution ranged from home range (IV) to local (I, II) and regional scales (III) (Fig. 1). In order to gain more accurate information on how the spatial structure of these functionally different landscape elements correlates with the occurrence of the species at a local scale, presence/absence data sets from well defined study areas in Koillismaa were analysed (V). These studies also yield information on the relevancy of remote sensed images and the applicability of GIS techniques in specific ecological and conservation issues. The practical outcome of this research suggests some general guide lines for forests management planning and single-species conservation efforts.