| The ability to model connectivity has skyrocketed in recent years, but, as with all models, each is fraught with inherent errors and restrictions. Connectivity is typically modeled by creating landscape-cost surfaces based off of expert opinion, but this level of subjectivity often makes recreation of studies difficult. While a few studies have tried to use niche-based modeling to parameterize cost maps, these have often performed poorly compared to expert-driven models. Methodology for calculating connectivity also varies: least cost paths (LCP) model a single route between populations while Isolation by Resistance (IBR) modelling incorporates multiple pathways of dispersal. Here, I present preliminary models of connectivity for the endangered giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens) and note the variance between niche-based driven and expert opinion based models as well as the difference between LCP and IBR modeling. |