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Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

1991

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Wildlife and Fisheries Science

First Advisor

Kurt J. Jenkins

Keywords

south dakota, white-tailed deer, conservation, reserve program, seasonal

Abstract

Seasonal use of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) fields by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) was investigated in eastern South Dakota by systematically relocating radio-marked deer from 15 September 1989 to 31 December 1990. Seasonal core areas and low use areas were determined from 40 home range maps of 14 radio-collared deer. Proportion of CRP lands within core areas of deer did not differ (P > 0. 05) from that in low use areas during each season. Pooled habitat availability within deer home ranges was similar between seasons. Habitat use varied among seasons (P < 0.01) and was disproportional to habitat availability (P < 0.10). Overall, CRP lands were used in greater proportions than their availability during spring, summer and fall 1990. Deer selected CRP lands during active periods in the spring and summer 1990, and during bedded periods in the summer and fall 1990. Deer avoided CRP lands during active periods in the fall 1989. Habitat selection data indicate that CRP lands provide important forage and cover values except during winter. During winter deer selected primarily wetland and wooded habitats. Partial mowing for controlling weeds, rejuvenating CRP fields, or providing emergency hay are recommended to maintain high interspersion of forage regrowth and standing cover in CRP fields.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

White-tailed deer -- South Dakota -- Habitat
Habitat selection

Description

Includes bibliographical references (page 33-38)

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

49

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 1991 Jeffrey Hallett Gould. All rights reserved.

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