Elk (Cervus elaphus) Seasonal Habitat Selection in a Heterogeneous Forest Structure

Authors

Jesse N. Popp
David N.C. McGeachy
Josef Hamr

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book Title/Conference

International Journal of Forestry Research

Volume

2013

Publication Date

7-21-2013

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

Abstract

Seasonal habitat selection by the reintroduced Burwash elk population, approximately 30 km south of Sudbury, Ontario, has been analysed in order to assist in the development of future management. Twenty-five adult females were radio-collared and tracked 1–3 times a week for 3 years. The most prominent patterns included selection of intolerant hardwood forests (trembling aspen, white birch, and balsam poplar) during all seasons, while Great Lakes-St. Lawrence pines (white and red pine dominated stands) were used less than expected based on availability for all seasons. The selection patterns are likely associated with seasonal climatic conditions and forage preferences. Because the selection behaviours displayed here varied greatly from other elk habitat studies, it is suggested that managers consider the importance of population-specific habitat studies before developing related strategies.

Recommended Citation

Popp, Jesse N., McGeachy, D.N.C., Hamr, J. 2013. Elk (Cervus elaphus) Seasonal Habitat Selection in a Heterogeneous Forest Structure. International Journal of Forestry Research 2013.