Date of Award
5-17-1986
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
Intensity of winter use of a variety of forest stands by deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis) was measured. Information on vegetation, timber type, and topography was collected to find relationships between deer use and habitat variables. Seasonal use of forest stands by deer is best described in terms of: basal area of trees, amount of deer forage (Vaccinium spp. and Coptis aspleniifolia)r deviation in crown closure, and timber volume. Information from radio-collared deer indicated high use of forest habitat, particularly during winter. Alpine areas received more use than any other habitat during summer. South-facing slopes were used more often than other aspects across all seasons. Average winter home range size was 160 ha, significantly smaller than the spring average (282 ha). Most radio-collared deer made seasonal elevational movements within a single drainage. Retention of high timber volume, old growth forest is recommended to maintain preferred deer habitat in Prince William Sound.
Recommended Citation
Shishido, Neil, "Seasonal distribution and winter habitat use by Sitka black-tailed deer in the Prince William Sound region, Alaska" (1986). Biological Sciences. 477.
https://ualaska.researchcommons.org/uaf_grad_bio_sciences/477
Handle
http://hdl.handle.net/11122/14807