Multistrata model- many strata vs using connectivity cov'rts

[jgarwood]

Hi, I am currently trying to set up a multistrata (transition probability) model for a population of frogs that was studied for 5 years. This population is distributed across 17 strata (Habitat patches). I have yet to find an analysis that has been successful using this many strata. Since I am interested in the probability of a frog moving based on patch isolation, could I use the following procedure:
1) Reduce the number of strata to two: the initial patch the animal was captured (A) and any other patch the animal was captured (B)
2) Use a connectivity metric as a covariate to explain the probability of leaving patch A.

Any insight would be greatly appreciated
Thank You