What is meant by the term home range in wildlife biology?

The term "home range" in wildlife biology specifically refers to the area in which an animal or a mated pair lives, forages, and carries out its daily activities. This encompasses not just the space they occupy but also the resources they utilize within that space for survival, such as food, shelter, and mating opportunities. Home ranges can vary significantly in size and are not necessarily defended against other individuals of the same species; animals may share areas with others while maintaining their own defined space in which they regularly move.

Understanding this concept is vital for wildlife management and conservation, as it helps in assessing habitat needs and the impacts of environmental changes on various species. This distinction from other definitions, such as territory—which implies an area defended against intruders—is crucial in accurately communicating about animal behavior and ecology.