Selection of winter foraging sites by elk and mule deer
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Authors: C. L. Wambolt, and A. F. McNeal
Date: 1987
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Volume: 25
Number:
Pages: 285-291
Summary of Methods: Wambolt and McNeal looked at the variables involved with feeding site selection of mule deer and elk during the winter, on the Gardiner range in southwestern Montana. The dominant forage used by elk was grass in open topography that lacked sagebrush cover. Mule deer were found in areas of denser shrub cover adjacent to steep topography. Both species avoided higher elevations, due to the snow depth that accumulates; the study site was free of snow. Management in the area should focus on grass production at lower elevations, while also increasing large browse species. The importance of the large browse species not only provides winter nutrition for mule deer, but also aids in the cover habitat required for survival.
Article Summary / Main Points: None
Vegetation Types:
MLRA Ecoregions:
Agrovoc Control Words: Riparian zones Rangelands Wildlife
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: elk, mule deer, winter range, step-wise regression, montana
Annotation: None
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