Resource selection and spatial separation of mule deer and elk during spring
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Authors: B. K. Johnson, J. W. Kern, M. J. Wisdom, S. L. Findholt, and J. G. Kie
Date: 2000
Journal: Journal of Wildlife Management
Volume: 64
Number: 3
Pages: 685-697
Summary of Methods: Resource selection function (RSF) models were developed to compare spring resource selection and spatial distribution of elk and mule deer in eastern Oregon. Female elk and mule deer were radiocollared from early April or early May until June 15 during four consecutive springs on two adjacent study areas. Several habitat variables (aspect, slope, topography, forage, vegetations stand attributes, etc.) were included in the RSF models to predict elk and mule deer distributions.
Article Summary / Main Points: RSF models were able to predict elk and mule deer distributions. Analysis of interspecific relationships showed that elk and mule deer select resources differently and are spatially separated. Within plant associations, elk select resources regardless of mule deer presence, while mule deer avoid elk when selecting resources.
Vegetation Types: Ponderosa Pine Woodlands
MLRA Ecoregions: 43C Blue and Seven Devils Mountains
Agrovoc Control Words: Monitoring Rangelands Ungulates
Article Review Type: Refereed
Article Type: Experimental Research
Keywords: cervus elaphus, elk, habitat, model, mule deer, odocoileus hemionus, oregon, resource selection
Annotation: Models are applicable on large scales (landscapes) but not to finer scales. This model is useful in predicting foraging areas and distribution of elk and mule deer during spring in montane habitats of western North America. Whether these same relationships occur on other rangelands due to different habitat conditions and available resources, or persist throughout the year is unclear.
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