Habitat loss leads to habitat fragmentation and smaller habitat patches. Indeed, habitat connectivity could mitigate effects of habitat fragmentation on wildlife populations. This study was carried out to assess habitat of the brown bear and its connectivity among natural areas as habitat patches in Iran-Iraq border. A total of 34 independent presence points of the brown bear in Iran section and seven habitat variables were used for habitat modeling using MaxEnt software, and were later extrapolated to the entire study area including Iraq section. Habitat patches were obtained from suitable polygons with presence points and connectivity among habitat patches was assessed by electrical-circuit methods using Circuitscape. The accuracy of modeled connectivity was evaluated by conducting interviews with informed locals. Elevation, distance from villages and distance from roads were, respectively, the most important variables in habitat modeling of the brown bear in the study area. Eight habitat patches with presence points were identified for the brown bear, which covered about 8% of the study area. Results of connectivity revealed moderate to high connectivity among habitat patches in Iran section, while in Iraq section moderate connectivity was only observed close to the Iran-Iraq border. Also, interviews with informed locals confirmed modeled connectivity in both Iran and Iraq sections. Based on obtained results in present study, establishing a trans-boundary protected area is highly recommended in Iran-Iraq border to provide safety of connectivity for the brown bear in this part of the world and reduction of geographical border separating effect.
