resource selection

Resource selection refers to the process by which animals choose specific environmental features or habitats that best meet their needs for survival, such as food, shelter, and safety from predators. It involves evaluating available options and selecting those that optimize their chances of thriving. This decision-making process balances factors like where food is abundant, cover is adequate, and risks are minimized. Understanding resource selection helps ecologists learn how animals interact with their environment, which can inform conservation efforts and habitat management.