Date of Award:

5-2011

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Wildland Resources

Committee Chair(s)

Terry A. Messmer

Committee

Terry A. Messmer

Committee

Brent Bibles

Committee

Jack W. Connelly

Abstract

Greater sage-grouse are the largest North American grouse species and are dependent on sagebrush for survival. Sage-grouse populations have declined throughout the west. Habitat fragmentation and degradation are likely the main causes of declining populations, and concern has lead to the petitioning for the sage-grouse to be listed under the Endangered Species Act. Survival of adult and juvenile sage-grouse is thought to be limiting population growth. However, survival of juvenile sage-grouse is poorly understood. I aimed to improve the knowledge gap regarding juvenile sage-grouse survival. With improved knowledge of juvenile survival, management actions can be employed to benefit sage-grouse populations.

With declining populations some groups articulated concerns regarding the possible impacts of harvest on sage-grouse populations. Adult hen and juvenile sage-grouse could be more susceptible to hunting than males. The differential susceptibility is likely due to the clumped distribution of females in moist areas with juveniles during the fall. I aimed to quantify the impacts of hunting on adult hen and juvenile sage-grouse. With a better understanding of the role of adult hens and juveniles in harvest, management strategies can be used to ensure effects of hunting on sage-grouse are not negatively impacting populations.

Sage-grouse are dependent during winter months on sagebrush for food. Winter habitat of sage-grouse is likely based on many physical land attribute factors and historic use. Snow can limit the availability of sagebrush. There have been several descriptions of greater sage-grouse winter habitat, as well as another species of sage-grouse the Gunnison’s sage grouse. Winter habitat has been largely described as based on slope and aspect. I aimed to determine which of the previously described winter habitats (greater vs. Gunnison) best described sage-grouse use on Parker Mountain, Utah. Knowledge of the type of winter habitat used on Parker Mountain will allow for management and protection of winter habitat. Protection of winter habitat is important, because degradation of winter habitats can cause adverse impacts to overall populations.

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This work made publicly available electronically on September 29, 2011.

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