Abstract
The structure of wild animal social systems governs many eco-evolutionary processes, and is determined by a complex combination of intrinsic and extrinsic drivers. Spatial structuring is a key determinant of sociality, but quantifying spatial components alongside multiple other drivers remains difficult due to data scarcity and analytical complexity. We used a 43-year dataset detailing a wild red deer population to investigate how individuals’ spatial behaviours drive social network positioning, while simultaneously assessing other potential contributing factors. Using Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) multi-matrix animal models, we demonstrate important roles of space sharing, two-dimensional point locations, and especially annually varying spatiotemporal locations, alongside reduced but detectable impacts of demography, genetics, and individual-level traits. Interestingly, spatial patterns and other drivers differed considerably among different social network metrics. These results indicate strong, multifaceted spatiotemporal structuring, emphasising the importance of considering multiple components of spatial behaviour when investigating the causes and consequences of sociality.
Competing Interest Statement
The authors have declared no competing interest.