Iranian Journal of Applied Ecology

The current study used habitat suitability index to evaluate habitat suitability of Servak forested area located near Yasouj for the Persian squirrel. Habitat variables including elevation, slope, aspect, density of vegetation cover, height of tree, tree diameter, canopy area of tree, distance to roads, distance to villages, and distance to rivers were used in this evaluation. Results showed that five variables including slope, tree diameter, density of plant cover, distance to road and height of tree were the main effective factors in habitat selection of Persian squirrels. Amongst the three stations, Golzar station with the highest habitat suitability index (0.92) has provided the most suitable area for the Persian squirrel. Overall, due to the habitat suitability of the Servak forested area for the Persian squirrel and the substantial number of animals in this region, it is recommended to protect this area by Department of Environment.