Hilltopping influences spatial dynamics in a patchy population of tiger moths

Dispersal is a key driver of spatial population dynamics. Dispersal behavior may be shaped by many factors, such as mate-finding, the spatial distribution of resources, or wind and currents, yet most models of spatial dynamics assume random dispersal. We examined the spatial dynamics of a day-flying moth species ( Arctia virginalis ) that forms mating aggregations on hilltops (‘hilltopping’) based on long-term adult and larval population censuses. Using time-series models, we compared spatial population dynamics resulting from empirically-founded hilltop-based connectivity indices, and modeled the interactive effects of temperature, precipitation, and density dependence. Model comparisons supported hilltop-based connectivity metrics over random connectivity, suggesting an effect of hilltopping behavior on dynamics. We also found strong interactive effects of temperature and precipitation on dynamics. Simulations based on fitted time series models showed lower patch occupancy and regional synchrony, and higher colonization and extinction rates when hilltopping was included, with potential implications for the probability of persistence of the patch network. Overall, our results show the potential for dispersal behavior to have important effects on spatial population dynamics and persistence, and we advocate inclusion of such non-random dispersal in metapopulation models.